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2 • NOVEMBER 2026
The Splash
DOCKSIDE the team and I was cut from He made several efforts to recruit Rowan said what makes it work For the love of made the team,” Rowan said. Gallardo for the venture before is that they’re talking about current two don’t recall meeting each Gallardo agreed. “I’d always wanted topics in the city, which others are Liberty Lake: otherTheduring the camp, however. to do something about Liberty interested in hearing about. They’ve
Two friends turn hometown talk into a podcast By Nina Culver Splash contributor
A friendship formed on the sidelines of their children’s soccer games led two former football players to launch Liberty Laker, a podcast exploring issues of interest in Liberty Lake that has recently expanded to highlight local businesses. Tommy Gallarda and Taylor Rowan first crossed paths in 2012 when both attended an Atlanta Falcons rookie mini camp. “Tommy
They only discovered the connection when they found themselves standing on the same sidelines, cheering on their kids during soccer games. Some of their children are the same ages, which ensured they crossed paths frequently. Gallarda played for Boise State and Rowan played at Western Illinois University and later went on to be a kicker with the Spokane Shock. These days Gallarda works for TitleOne, a title and escrow company that recently expanded to Liberty Lake, while Rowan owns Taylor’d Systems in Spokane Valley. Rowan created a podcast for his business and it was his idea to launch a podcast based on Liberty Lake.
Lake,” Rowan said. “Obviously having the right personality is key and he fits it.”
discussed the use of golf carts in the community, flock cameras, schools, golf and Ridgeline High School.
Gallarda acknowledged that it took a little convincing for him to sign on, partly because he’s only lived here since 2015 while Rowan has been here since 2010. “It did a little bit,” he said. “We’re the new transplants here. After we did that first episode, it really took off.”
“Some of our biggest videos have to do with Ridgeline High,” Rowan said.
The duo was soon getting suggestions from other residents about topics to discuss and places to visit. Rowan said he’s been encouraged by the positive response, with the weekly episodes getting 1 million views so far across several platforms, including Spotify, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok.
They’ve also begun including “Notes from a Nurse,” a short segment that includes tips from local school nurses for parents. “It’s a nice PSA for the schools, to be honest,” Gallarda said. Not all the online responses have been positive, but Gallarda said he likes being able to discuss the issues even if he doesn’t agree with people. “It kind of makes the podcast better,” he said. “It’s kind of been an eye-opening experience about what happens on social media,” he said. Part of that community response and feedback trickles down to their kids. “My kids love watching it,” Rowan said. “The teachers at the schools, they’re the ones talking to our kids about it,” Gallarda said. “I like to think it gives them a little playground cred.” The two use a professional camera crew, all of whom work for Rowan, who spend a few hours a week on the podcast. Recently the duo has been highlighting local businesses. Their first “Behind the Counter” episode highlighted Just Chillin’. Rowan said he likes visiting local businesses to highlight on the podcast. “We can just pop over to a business for 30 minutes,” he said. “Our goal right off the bat is to hit as many businesses as possible.”
Photo by Nina Culver Taylor Rowan (left) and Tommy Gallarda (right) are the hosts for the Liberty Lakers Podcast which produces videos weekly featuring current topics from around the city. While the duo like to visit other local businesses, they built a home set for the podcast out of the game room at Rowans business which is shown above.
While the camera crew is professional, the set they use when not visiting local businesses was put together using what they could find for props and decorations. It’s housed in the game room at Rowan’s business. “It’s a little bit thrown together, but I think that’s
NOVEMBER 2026 • 3
The Splash what makes it unique,” he said. So far the two have no plans to try to make money off the podcast. “We both enjoy doing this as a hobby,” Rowan said. “Maybe one day it turns into something, but right now I think both of us just love doing it.” Previous episodes can be viewed on the Liberty Laker Facebook and YouTube pages. (Responses by Taylor Rowan) Q: What brought you to Liberty Lake? A. I’m originally from Melbourne, Florida, and went to Western Illinois University, where I was a placekicker. Football took me all over the country for camps and opportunities in the NFL, UFL and Arena Football League, but in 2010, it brought me to Spokane to play for the Spokane Shock. I still remember driving out past Liberty Lake that first year and seeing the lake. Of all the places football had taken me, something about this area immediately stood out. Between the scenery and the feel of the community, it felt like a place I could call home. In 2011, I met my wife, Jamie, when she was on the Shock’s stunt team for our outdoor game at Joe Albi Stadium. We got married in 2012, and I’ve been here ever since. I continued kicking for the Shock through their final season before the transition to the Spokane Empire. Football brought me here, but meeting Jamie and finding a community we loved made it home. Q: What is your goal for the Liberty Laker podcast? A. Tommy and I are very much on the same page: we’re doing this because we enjoy it, and we want to bring that enjoyment to the
community. We both love Liberty Lake, so getting together each week to talk about our city has been fun for us, and we hope it’s entertaining for everyone watching and listening. Our newest segment, “Behind the Counter,” has really brought out our personalities. We get to meet local business owners, hear their stories, and shine a light on the businesses that make this community what it is. Q: What has been your favorite episode of Liberty Laker? A. Our very first episode is still my favorite. Tommy and I had so many thoughts and ideas we’d been wanting to share, and finally getting them out there was a lot of fun. Seeing how well the community responded made it even better. A close second would be our live show at Ridgeline High School. Being able to talk with the coaches and school staff, with the excitement of game night happening behind us, made that one a memorable experience. Q: Do you have a dream guest you would like to interview? A. I don’t necessarily have one dream guest. I really enjoy talking with local business owners and learning their stories. That said, we’ve put a call out to Lexie Hull, and it would be great to have her on during the offseason when she’s back in the area. Q: Do you have a favorite Liberty Lake event or place to go? A. The Fourth of July boat parade on Liberty Lake has always been my favorite event. The Fourth is by far my favorite holiday, and Liberty Lake does it best! As far as favorite places go, we can’t forget Just Chillin’!
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4 • NOVEMBER 2026
The Splash
CVSD is connecting with our community through this Link.
Community relationships CVSD values and the partnerships... work we do together. This belief is at the heart of the
The Chamber partnership is one example how collaboration creates A school district is built on more than meaningful opportunities. Through what happens inside its classrooms. initiatives such as Manufacturing It is strengthened through Connect, the Chamber connects relationships, shared commitments Spokane Valley Tech students with and a community’s belief in its local manufacturers, providing students. CVSD is grateful for the firsthand exposure to career continued support of our families, pathways, workplace skills and local businesses, community employment opportunities. Since organizations and civic partners who launching in 2024, the program help our students and schools thrive. connected students with more than two dozen regional manufacturers. Partnerships reflect a shared understanding that student success Experiences translate classroom is closely connected to our learning into real-world opportunities, community’s future. As the Greater while giving local employers a chance Spokane Valley Chamber recently to connect with the next generation of noted, “Strong schools and a strong skilled workers. The Chamber’s economy go hand in hand.” support highlights the important role
help CVSD students thrive.
businesses play in education. By bringing educators and employers together, we can better understand workforce needs, introduce students to emerging careers and prepare graduates for success beyond high school.
into their children’s needs, while educators, businesses and community organizations contribute valuable expertise and resources. Together, opportunities are created that extend beyond the classroom and help students reach their potential.
This same spirit exists throughout our community. Local organizations provide resources and enriching experiences. Community members volunteer, celebrate student achievements and support families. First responders and public safety partners work alongside our schools to help maintain safe learning environments. Each contribution strengthens the network of support surrounding our students.
CVSD values partnerships built on trust, collaboration and a shared commitment to the next generation. Strong schools help build a strong community, and a strong community helps schools succeed.
With more than 14,200 students across 29 schools and learning centers, CVSD knows this work cannot happen alone. Families bring essential insight
“Thank you CVSD supporters,” says Superintendent John Parker. “Your time, talent and support make a meaningful difference in our students’ lives. We remain committed to listening and partnering with those who share our vision for student success. Our students are our future, and together, we are stronger.”
The Splash
Liberty Lake council approves logo, weighs capital project funding options By Nina Culver
Splash contributor
After months of discussion and debate, the Liberty Lake City Council voted in October to approve a new city logo. In the end the discussion came down to whether the council preferred a version with two or three wavy lines meant to represent water. The logo includes a mountain with a rising sun behind it, with a pine tree on the left side and lines of water in the foreground. The words “Liberty Lake Washington” are underneath, flanked by “Est 2001.” City administrator Marc McAvoy reviewed the public input that had gone into designing the new logo. “We have been talking about this quite a while,” he said. The council first discussed creating a new logo in February. A community meeting was held in April, during which people said they thought the existing logo was too confusing and busy, felt antiquated and tired, the fonts were hard to read and the color palette wasn’t vibrant. A survey was done in April and May, then another in July and August. The first survey got 329 responses, which largely agreed with the input from the public meeting. “We were able to validate what we heard at the community meeting,” he said. The second survey, which asked people to evaluate three new logo proposals, had 170 responses. Two of the logos were nearly identical, with 44 percent picking one version and 22 percent picking the other. A third distinctly different option got 34 percent of the vote. “There
NEWS wasn’t a clear, decisive winner,” he said. In all the various public input, people ranked what they wanted to see as part of the new logo. The top picks were mountains, trees and a lake. “Our current logo does not have a mountain image in it,” McAvoy said. Councilwoman Arlene Fisher, said she would like to see color options of the new logo rather than a black and white drawing. “We’re approving the base design with color to come later,” said Mayor Cris Kaminskas. “We can have a number of primary and alternative color schemes.” “Color is everything,” Fisher said. “The black and white just sets my hair on fire.” Several council members indicated they liked the version with three lines representing water, with councilwoman Annie Kurtz calling it more appealing from a design standpoint. “It has a better visual presentation,” said Mayor Pro Tem Dan Dunne. “It will make more sense when we add the color,” Kaminskas said. Councilman Rick Klingler said he’s glad the city was able to get the logo project done at no cost. “This is, I think, a really good compromise,” he said. Councilwoman Summer Darrow said it was time to approve a new logo and move on. “Art by committee is a really tough ask,” she said. “For the sake of progress, it’s time to support this and move it.” Fisher, who has been outspoken in her desire to keep the original city logo, was the only council member to vote against approving the new design. Deputy Police Chief Darin Morgan presented information to the council on the city’s use of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras. The state legislature recently passed a new law, Senate Bill 6002, governing how the system is used and where the cameras can be placed. All the required information has been submitted to the Attorney General’s office and the city is in compliance, Morgan said.
“Only people within Washington State have accessed our system,” he said. The department has also signed an agreement with the Washington State Patrol that allows city police to access the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database via the Washington State Patrol, Morgan said. The new state law restricted where police departments can get the information accessed by the ALPR cameras and the NCIC, which is highly utilized by law enforcement agencies, was left off the list. This meant that alerts for out-of-state wanted suspects or stolen vehicles would not pop up when a license plate was scanned. The city previously requested a $500,000 state grant to pay half of the cost of new playground equipment for Pavillion Park. Parks and Recreation Director Jen Camp reported to the council that the statewide project list for the grant program was recently released and the city’s playground was ranked 17 out of 58. That puts it in the top tier for funding and Camp said she’s hopeful that the state legislature will allocate enough funding for the grant program to fund the city’s project. HUB Sports Center executive director Phil Champlin made a presentation to the City Council about using tax increment financing (TIF) funding for an expansion project. The city previously contributed funding to help build two outdoor playing fields, a parking lot and walking paths. “We’ve had a lot of use out there already,” Champlin said. “We really appreciate the partnership we’ve had with the city.” The HUB is asking for another $2.5 million in funding so it can retire the debt it took on to complete the expansion project, Champlin said. Eliminating the debt will give the HUB more flexibility and help them keep costs down, he said. Jim Frank of Greenstone Homes also asked the city for TIF funding. In previous years, the money could only be used for public improvements designed to have an economic impact but new legislation was passed that now allows the money to be used for affordable housing.
NOVEMBER 2026 • 5
Frank said Greenstone has voluntarily been providing housing at a reduced cost to people with below the median income, including several homes in the River District. One family was basically homeless before moving in, Frank said. “People shouldn’t know you live in an affordable house,” he said. “That allows the family to integrate into the neighborhood.” He suggested that the city contribute $3 million in TIF funding to Spokane County’s Housing and Community Development Department to be used on projects in Liberty Lake. The Department already has existing relationships with builders and other organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, and can easily oversee a building program, Frank said. He said affordable housing needs to be integrated in the community and he suggests homes, including duplexes and townhouses, or small apartment buildings limited to six or fewer units so they fit into the neighborhood. Frank said it’s also cheaper per unit to build a home rather than an apartment complex. He said he’s willing to donate land to be used for low income housing. Councilwoman Linda Ball questioned how the city could make sure money given to the County is spent in Liberty Lake. “The TIF money can only be spent in the TIF boundary,” Frank said. “It’s restricted legally.” Nancy Hill of the city’s Parks and Arts Commission spoke to the council about the group’s budget requests for 2027. Several projects currently underway, including adding art in the new City Hall, won’t be completed until 2027 even though they were budgeted for in 2026. “We’re way down that road,” she said. “To me, that’s a priority.” The Commission has also paid for half of a goat sculpture and the piece is already underway, Hill said. “I think our carryover projects need to be carried over,” she said. The Commission can, however, delay some projects proposed for 2027. The city purchased two carrousel statues this year and would like to do another two in 2027. “If we have to hold, we can,” she said.
6 • NOVEMBER 2026
NEWS
Mayors proposed budget includes 1% property tax increase while aiming to maintain services amid rising costs
Kaminkas said her goal in creating the budget was to ensure the city can maintain the services it provides to residents. While sales tax revenue is expected to increase around 5 percent in 2027, costs are also rising, Kaminskas said. The budget also does not include revenue from the proposed tenth of a percent sales tax to fund law enforcement services that is on the November 3 ballot because it has not yet been approved, she said.
Splash contributor
“We did some right sizing with the library director position to make it more competitive, but we haven’t made any other major changes,” Kaminskas said.
By Nina Culver
Liberty Lake Mayor Cris Kaminskas presented her proposed 2027 budget to the City Council in October, which will be the topic of discussion at several meetings while council members debate the mayor’s funding allocations.
“We tried to be very conservative on the revenue side,” she said. The 2027 budget includes a 10.65 percent increase in salaries, wages and benefits. That includes new staff positions, a 3 percent cost-of-living increase and an 11 percent increase in the city’s medical insurance.
The city’s Salary Commission met and decided against recommending any increases in the pay of the mayor and council
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members, a decision Kaminskas said she agrees with. She also suggested revisiting the city’s salary commission ordinance to make changes that would allow the mayor and city council to refuse suggested raises if they want to. The city’s risk management insurance, which includes liability insurance, is expected to increase by 8 percent. Kaminskas said she’s suggesting reductions in several areas, including administrative services and an expected cost savings created by moving IT services inhouse. The $155,000 cost to develop the city’s 10 year update of the city’s comprehensive plan, which is nearly complete, will also drop out of the budget. Another possible area of reduction is the city’s Parks and Arts projects, which have been estimated at $167,000 in 2027. The budget has previously paid for art projects around the city, including murals at Orchard Park and the Harvard Road Trailhead as well as several sculptures around town. Kaminskas said the projects should be evaluated to see what could be delayed. “Not every worthwhile project must be funded in the year it is proposed,” she said. She is recommending reducing or eliminating non-essential equipment purchases, instead focusing on essential replacements and safety-related needs. The city could also choose to pause its $25,000 annual contribution to the underground utility fund and/or reallocate some or all of the money in the fund. For years the city has maintained a $100,000 Building Contingency Fund, which hasn’t been used since 2023, Kaminskas said. She recommends the city reduce the balance of the fund to $50,000. The city has also accumulated $112,000 in a Community Messaging Fund and Kaminskas said she recommends evaluating whether the fund remains necessary and if some of the money should be reallocated to other needs. Kaminskas said that as much as she has taken pride in the fact that the city has not taken the allowed annual 1 percent property tax increase in several years, she is
The Splash recommending the city take the 1 percent increase for 2027. “It’s become very clear over the last year that we need to do a property tax increase,” she said. The proposed 1 percent increase would bring in an estimated $32,000 in revenue, which would be spread across all properties in the city, Kaminskas said. Councilwoman Arlene Fisher noted that for the past several years the city council has voted to bank the property tax capacity it has elected not to use and suggested that the council hear a presentation on what that means and if that banked capacity should be used. Councilwoman Annie Kurtz agreed and said that city staff has been recommending the council use the various levers under its control to create more revenue, particularly for currently unfunded capital projects. “We need to understand if that’s a lever and how hard to pull,” she said. The city’s department heads submitted a list of 14 budget requests that asked for an additional $341,000 in spending but also suggested $226,000 in reductions, creating a net change of $114,000. The suggestions included terminating a $20,000 software subscription that hasn’t been as useful as hoped, eliminating positions and adding positions. Some of the new staff requested are a part-time records clerk in the police department, making a parttime seasonal maintenance position full-time, adding a position in the facilities division to maintain the new City Hall and adding two recreation employees in the Parks Department. The Public Works Department also suggested eliminating a vacant project manager position to save $130,000. The budget, which must be approved by the end of the year, will be discussed further during council meetings in November, including a special council meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. on November 10. The first meeting of the month has been moved from November 3, which is election night, to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4. The proposed budget is available online at https://www. libertylakewa.gov/m/newsflash/ home/detail/905.
NOVEMBER 2026 • 7
The Splash
The Lookout
November 2026
divided into four teams of City’s U-4 soccer were eight members each. Late afternoon at Rocky Hill Park were held league wraps its games through Oct. 14. Explaining the basis for this first season fall’s new offering, city Recreation
Almost three dozen of the Liberty Lake area’s youngest residents are now veterans of the city’s newest sports league. This fall, the city’s Parks & Recreation Department introduced a competitive soccer league for area kids 3 and 4 years old. The program achieved its maximum registration of 32 little athletes by the end of the summer. Parents volunteered as coaches for weekly practice sessions that began in September, and the kids
There’s even more “Home For the Holidays” coming this winter!
A year ago, Liberty Lake’s Parks and Recreation Department debuted a lineup of new community events – under the new name of “Home For the Holidays” – to help fill the loss of the Winter Glow light display that had been at Orchard Park from 2019 through 2024 Christmas seasons. For 2026, Home For The Holidays is officially doubling its number of attractions and events, giving area residents and visitors even more seasonal warmth this time around. This second celebration of Home For The Holidays involves 10 different community attractions and activities – something to interest everybody – and it all starts up the weekend prior to Thanksgiving. Complete details are available on the city’s website at www. libertylakewa.gov. Here’s a preview of what’s on the calendar for the upcoming weeks of wintertime:
coordinator Mickael Stevens said: “Our surveys showed a desire for more recreation league sports with practices and games. The younger age group is sometimes overlooked with sports. It gave them the opportunity to play games in front of their family during a time of the day when they could be there to watch them play.” Ziply Fiber and The Children’s Choice Pediatric Dentistry assisted as sponsors for the city’s fall program, supplying the team shirts for the young players.
• 3rd Annual Light Up Liberty Lake Tree Lighting Ceremony – Saturday, Nov. 21, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Trailhead Golf: The community is invited to the official lighting of an 18-foot artificial tree that will illuminate the corner of Trailhead’s parking lot at Liberty Lake Road and Country Vista Drive for the entire season. The ceremony will start outdoors with opening remarks from Mayor Cris Kaminskas and the Liberty Lake Better Together Foundation, followed by a performance from the Ridgeline High School dance team, and the arrival of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. The Liberty Lake Safeway will also be serving up cocoa and cookies. Following the tree lighting, visitors can meet and take pictures with the Claus couple inside the Trailhead Rotary Room, which will have craft stations set up throughout the line. • Winter Wonderland (Orchard Park) and Hearth & Holly (Pavillion Park) light displays – Nov. 21-Jan. 3 from 4 to 10 p.m.: A couple of new winter animal displays are being added as part of the second-year expansion for the city-provided light display at Orchard Park (20298 E. Indiana Ave.). Lights in classic Christmas colors and a couple of displays will be debuting near the pavilion
at Pavillion Park (727 N. Molter Road). • Santa’s Mailbox at Liberty Lake Municipal Library – Nov. 23Dec. 11: For the second year, children may bring letters to a mailbox inside the city’s library (23123 E. Mission Ave.). Messages that also include a self-addressed and stamped envelope will receive a response from Santa. Letters can also be deposited during the Nov. 21 tree lighting event at Trailhead Golf. • Reindeer Rendezvous at Liberty Lake City Hall – Wed., Dec. 2, 5:30-8:30 p.m.: Get up close to an actual reindeer in front of City Hall (22710 E. Country Vista Dr.)! • Deck The Homes contest – Registration open through Nov. 20: Full rules on this home decorating contest for city residents are on the city’s website. • Battle Of The Branches (outside Liberty Lake City Hall) – Decorating Sat., Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.: The outdoor tree decorating contest and display is moving to the E. Country Vista Drive gate
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outside City Hall for its second year. Individuals, families, and organizations may register through Nov. 20 to decorate a city-provided tree that will be displayed through Jan. 3. Participants will need to provide their own decorations. Full rules are at the city’s website. • Cocoa and Carriage Rides at Orchard Park – Wed., Dec. 9, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.: Horse-drawn carriage rides will be offered through the park. Registration for city residents is open Nov. 2-Dec. 4 (or until full) and opens on Nov. 16 for all others. • Jingle Bell Cruise – Sat., Dec. 12, 5:30-6 p.m.: The Liberty Lake Police Dept. will lead lighted and decorated vehicles for a street cruise from Liberty Creek Elementary School to Orchard Park. Vehicle registration is open Nov. 2-Dec. 4 at the city’s website. • Merry & Bright Trivia Night, Sat. Dec. 19, at 5 p.m.: Signups for the competition at the Trailhead Golf Rotary Room are open Nov. 2-Dec. 4.
www.libertylakewa.gov
8 • NOVEMBER 2026
The Splash
Introducing the
Safety Awareness Channel LLPD Crime Analysis
LLPD Crime Analysis
Property Crimes Calls for Service: 19
Traffic Stops: 168 / Citations Issued: 17
Police Report - Sept. 2026 Splash news sources
SIGNIFICANT CASES Robbery: On 9/24, an 18-year-old Yoke’s employee was the victim of an attempted robbery in the store’s parking lot after his shift ended. The suspect simulated having a firearm but fled emptyhanded after the victim showed he had no cash. The case is currently closed due to insufficient suspect description. Voyeurism:
On 9/28, a male suspect was arrested for Voyeurism 1D after placing a rigged cell phone outside the basement bedroom window of a female victim on N Aladdin Rd. The suspect confessed on scene and was booked into jail. A large volume of digital devices was subsequently seized from two locations. Malicious Mischief: Between 9/6 and 9/7, a group of juveniles vandalized the restrooms and pavilion at Pavillion Park. Several of the suspects were identified and trespassed from the park. On 9/21, officers responded to a disorderly call on N Eagle Rd
involving a teenage male who was reportedly withdrawing from THC vaping, making suicidal statements, and destroying property. The male fled through a bedroom window before officers could contact him but was located nearby and taken into protective custody via ITA. He was transported by AMR to Valley Medical Center for evaluation. Vehicle Prowl: On 9/5, a vehicle was prowled via a smashed window while parked at Orchard Park. Victim’s wallet was stolen. On 9/9, a vehicle was prowled via a smashed window while parked at Cornerstone Early Learning Center. The suspect vehicle was also involved in smash & grab prowls in Idaho. Theft: Between 9/2 and 9/4, a victim reported the theft of his green 2024 Coleman RT200 pit bike, which was stolen from a bicycle
rack outside his apartment. A lock was also taken in the incident. On 9/4, an elderly female suspect attempted to steal approximately $920 worth of merchandise from Yoke’s. She was arrested, but refused at the jail for high blood pressure. On 9/11, a bicycle theft occurred outside the McDonald’s. A 13-year-old boy left his unlocked mountain bike in a rack and returned to find it stolen. Surveillance footage was later obtained and provides a suspect description. On 9/29, a male suspect shoplifted approximately $145 in merchandise from Home Depot by using a fraudulent receipt to bluff his way past store employees at the exit. He was later identified through surveillance images and theft history at the store. ARRESTS – LLPD made 11 arrests in September
The Splash
On 9/4, a female suspect was contacted by Yoke’s employees after she walked out of the store with over $900 of groceries. She was transported to jail but refused due to high blood pressure.
LLPD Crime Analysis
SAFETYTotal CHANNEL Calls for Service: 780
NOVEMBER 2026 • 9
On 9/5, a male was arrested for DUI after his brother-in-law reported him driving intoxicated from their shared residence to True Legends Grill. The male exhibited clear signs of impairment, failed all three standardized field sobriety tests, and blew a .059 BAC on a PBT — a low reading that, combined with his prescription medications, led officers to pursue a blood draw warrant rather than a breath test. On 9/6, a suspicious male was contacted at the Park & Ride for Unlawful Transit Conduct. He was uncooperative and provided two false names before being identified by his father. He was found to have an outstanding warrant and was in possession of methamphetamine. He was transported to jail without further incident. On 9/15, a vehicle was observed committing a traffic violation. When running the plate, it was found to be associated with several calls involving the driver and the registered owner. The driver had two warrants and was arrested without incident. On 9/16, a vehicle was contacted for traffic violations. The driver was found to have an active warrant out of King County. He was arrested and transported to jail. On 9/16, officers responded to a domestic violence call on N Chief Garry Dr. The female victim reported her husband assaulted her during an argument. The male was arrested and booked at Spokane County Jail for Assault 4D – DV. On 9/17, officers responded to a suspicious circumstance call on E Appleway Ave. A male suspect was contacted near a ransacked vehicle at a repair shop and subsequently arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search revealed fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, and a stolen driver’s license belonging to an 83-year-old female victim. On 9/21, officers responded to a DV incident resulting in the arrest of a female for Assault 2D w/ Deadly Weapon – DV. Her husband arrived at Indigo Urgent Care covered in blood with significant lacerations consistent with a sharp
object, while the female was found at the shared residence covered in blood with a heavily disturbed scene behind her. She was arrested and transported to jail.
arrested for Assault 4D – DV after physically assaulting her husband by restraining, shoving and striking him. She was arrested and transported to jail.
On 9/22, officers responded to a neighbor-reported domestic disturbance on E Kalama Ave. The female suspect was
On 9/26, a female suspect was arrested at Yoke’s during a shoplifting investigation. She was taken into custody on an
outstanding Spokane County District Court bench warrant for Theft 3D. On 9/28, a male was arrested for Voyeurism 1D after he was found to have hung a cell phone outside the bedroom window of a female victim in order to record her.
10 • NOVEMBER 2026
COVER STORY
The Splash
Photo by Roy Powell Photography After months of practice, The Ridgeline Regiment performs their half time show titled "Kintsugi: Beautifully Broken" at the Pacific Northwest Marching Band Championships at Union Station in Mead, WA on October 10th.
More than trophies: Ridgeline band puts belonging first By Nina Culver
Splash contributor
The Ridgeline High School Marching Band has been dominating local competitions since the school opened in 2021, drawing nearly a full contingent from Central Valley’s other two high schools. When the school first opened, there were no seniors and juniors had the choice to remain where they were. Freshmen and sophomore students also had the option to remain in the district’s other two high schools if they had older siblings who were remaining. Ridgeline marching band director Eric Parker, who previously worked at Central Valley High School, said many students chose Ridgeline so they could stay together. “A lot of students in band chose to come to Ridgeline even with grandfather rights,” he said. “Music is such a relationship with your peers and your coaches. Making music with people you’re familiar with is appealing.” The first year was not all smooth sailing, however. Parker ordered all new equipment for the new band,
but when the season started, much of it was missing even though it had been ordered months in advance. “It wasn’t all delivered on time,” he said. When band camp was supposed to start on August 15 of that year, the marching band had uniforms and drum sticks. But the marching band community rallied and loaned Ridgeline what it needed until the new equipment arrived. “We borrowed from everywhere,” Parker said. The marching band started with 60 students, but now has 130, making it one of the largest marching bands in the region. Playing in a marching band is much different that playing in a concert band, Parker said. “If you’re a drummer, you’re playing completely different instruments than you would in concert band,” he said. Marching band students have to have the mental and physical strength to spend long days learning the each year’s routine. There’s usually an intensive band camp every August, with students putting in eight hours a day or more on the field for two weeks.
Students have to memorize nine minutes of music and then learn 60 coordinates on the field that mark where they are supposed to be at all times, which Parker calls “insanely tricky.” And marching band is different than it was when Parker did it in high school in that students now have to learn dance-like choreography for the performances. Parker said he never had to know what a plie or demi-plie were, let alone how to do them. “I just marched to my spot while playing my clarinet,” he said. “They do that choreography while they play. It’s not much different than a sport.” During summer band camp, students typically start by learning the music and then learning the choreography. The color guard, however, has to learn the choreography first. “We are very flexible to do things a little out of order if it helps the students learn it faster.” During the school year, there’s practice for three hours twice a week and again all day Saturday. But those weekly practices during the school year typically don’t start until 6 p.m. because the band has to wait for other sports to finish using the field and other areas. Each section usually practices a lot on their own, so
different spaces are a must. “We require a lot of facility space,” Parker said. A lot of students join as freshman, but there are always a few upperclassmen who join their junior or senior year. “There’s rookies at all grade levels,” he said. Parker hosts an orientation meeting every May for those interested in participating in marching band. Parker always explains that it’s a lot of work for both students and parents. “We talk to people, you’re drinking from a fire hose,” he said. Like other schools in the Central Valley School District, the Ridgeline marching band has an active parent Booster Club that does everything from move props on and off the field during performances to feeding the students to raising money to pay for supplies and equipment. Parker has a team that helps him select a theme and design a program each year, but each program has an underlying message. One year the band did a program with a boxing theme using music from Rocky, but Parker also wanted his students to learn about determination and how to get up and keep going after a loss even though you don’t really want to go out and fight another round.
The Splash “There’s something that hopefully lasts forever from that year in marching band,” he said. This year the theme is “Kintsugi: Beautifully Broken.” Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese art form of repairing broken pottery using gold lacquer. Parker said the underlying message is about people’s humanity, how a heart may be broken and have to be put back together. “We really try to empower the students,” he said. “It’s very artsy for us, but we feel like our students connect to that.” Parker said the culture of the marching band is important to him. The focus is on improving, not winning. It’s about learning to work together and depend on one another. Parker said he always asks his students if they are better than they were yesterday. “It is definitely an intentional effort from everyone on the coaching staff,” he said. “Culture is not an important thing. It’s the only thing.” Parker said some students are more skilled than others, but all are welcome. “We blend them together,” he said. “We try to show off their strengths. We try to celebrate the kids.” Junior Claire Barney joined the marching band her freshman year
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NOVEMBER 2026 • 11
as a flute player. She’s now a junior drum major. She said her mother convinced her to sign up for marching band, even though she was initially hesitant. “My mother had a pretty heavy influence on me,” she said. “As the year progressed, I realized it was someplace I felt at home.” In marching band, everyone has a role to play and the performance can’t happen without each person being in their place. “You are the only person who can perform your part of the show,” she said.
Barney said she loves the unity of marching band. It’s a unique place where you can be a part of something much bigger than yourself, she said. “It’s amazing to be around a community like that,” she said. She acknowledged that the long days of practice and competition are hard work. “There’s definitely some long days,” she said. “I love the progress we make, but it can be a lot. At the end you have this piece of art you get to share with other people.” Being in marching band has taught her discipline and time management skills. “You have to show up,” she said. “You have to do these things. It’s definitely about wise time management. You can’t procrastinate things until the end of the day because at the end of the day
Photo by Roy Powell Photography With 22 participating marching bands from across the state, Ridgeline Regiment awarded Best Drum Major, Best Percussion, Best General Effect, Best Visuals, as well as First Place Overall at the Harvest Marching Band Festival in Yakima, WA on October 17th, 2026. you have marching band.” She also loves that each year’s program has important messages, including this year’s. “Yeah, it’s pottery, but it’s about being human,” she said. “The cracks are a life well lived. They’re all super personal. There’s always two layers to it.” Barney said she’s convinced she would be an entirely different person today if she had not joined marching band. “I’m just so grateful for the
marching band and the Regiment and all the people who helped make me who I am,” she said. Nearly every weekend in October includes a marching band competition. Ridgeline typically does well and has had two undefeated seasons since the school opened. At the Pacific Northwest Marching Band Championships in Mead, Ridgeline was the grand champion and also won awards for Best Effect, Best Music, Best Visual, Best Percussion and Best Color Guard. They also took first place overall at the Harvest Marching Band Festival, also winning Best Drum Majors, Best Percussion, Best General Effect and Best Visual. They won first place at the Cavalcade of Bands, where they also won best Color Guard, Best General Effect, Best Brass and Winds and Best Visual. Their final competition will be the Bands of America Idaho Regional Championship on Halloween.
Photo by Roy Powell Photography Director Mr. Eric Parker (shown middle) and the Ridgeline Regiment ends each show with a team circle inviting all current and former Ridgeline Regiment members in to reflect about their performance, recognize the efforts of the team, and remind them that "I am because we are"
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For Ridgeline senior Analiese Erlandson, school spirit and academic commitment go hand in hand. With a 4.0 GPA, four years on varsity cheer and four years in student council, she brings dedication to both the classroom and campus life. This year, Erlandson serves as ASB vice president and football cheer captain, following a year as basketball cheer captain. Her involvement also includes two years in Link Crew and three in DECA, with trips to state competition during the past two years. She participated in National Honor Society as a sophomore and junior and plans to apply again. Outside school, Erlandson competes with Spokane Elite Dance Studio, continuing a lifelong passion for dance. Looking ahead, she hopes to attend a four-year university to study business administration and health management. Her enjoyment of communication, business and school leadership has sparked an interest in bringing those skills to healthcare management.
Nearly 1,000 rushing yards—and a future that stretches well beyond the end zone. Jaxin Fieser, this month’s featured athlete, has plenty to look forward to. The junior running back started playing football in seventh grade. Last season, he began on junior varsity before moving up to varsity in week four, where he stayed for the rest of the season. This season brought GSL Athlete of the Week honors and, at the time of his interview, nearly 1,000 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns with one league game still ahead before playoffs. But football is only part of Jaxin’s story. After three periods at his high school, he heads to Spokane Valley Tech for an afternoon of fire science, exploring what it takes to become a firefighter. Firefighting and heavy equipment operation are both possibilities after graduation.
Citizen of the Month For Mark Holthaus, Liberty Lake is home. A former Central Valley School District student, he returned to the area in March 2017 to raise his boys and joined the Liberty Lake Police Department, where he currently serves as a patrol lieutenant. With the Liberty Lake Police Department Holthaus has served as a school resource officer at Selkirk Middle School and then Ridgeline High school as he helped lead the development of the school resource officer program with Central Valley School District. Lt Holthaus also oversees the Blue Bridge card program, funded by community donations to provide temporary financial assistance to people facing difficult situations. Before coming to Liberty Lake Lt Holthaus served in the US Army as an MP and later was hired by the Washington State Patrol. Away from work, Holthaus enjoys golfing, “glamping” in the family’s fifth wheel, and taking cruises. At home, Lt Holthaus enjoys scary movies and the everyday humor of “Seinfeld.”
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www.hubsportscenter.org home run enroute to the 16-6 win. Ridgeline found itself against a fighting.” Falcons familiar foe in the state semifinals — The Falcons got three hits each Ridgeline has advanced to within third-seeded Deer Park. The Stags a game of the state tournament the from Triplett and Aaliyah Yeldon slowpitch to down Central Valley 6-3 two opened a 10-5 lead before the Falcons past two years, losing to Shadle later, putting them in the mounted a rally in their last at bat, in 2024 and University last year softball earns days championship game against Mt. scoring three runs in the bottom of in games for the District 5/6 third Spokane. The top-ranked Wildcats the seventh but falling short of a trip seed. Their win over CV in the program’s jumped to a 6-0 lead after two to the title game with a 10-8 loss. tournament earned the Falcons their innings and cruised to the title with Led by four runs on four hits first trip to the district title game. first state a 16-6 win. from Ava Nevills, Ridgeline Ridgeline was ranked third in Yeldon was 3-for-3 with a double avoided elimination with a nine-run 2A/3A Washington Interscholastic tournament third to down second-ranked R.A. Activities Association’s RPI poll and two RBIs for the Falcons. Long from Longview 12-2 Saturday Seeded second at state, Ridgeline morning, putting the Falcons in the heading into state play. The Falcons trophy opened with a 26-9 win over Ballard trophy game against Shadle Park finished 2026 with an 18-7 overall By John McCallum Splash contributor
The Falcons slowpitch softball team added another first to Ridgeline High School’s list of accomplishments by making their first appearance at the 2A/3A state tournament in Yakima — an appearance that included their first ever softball state trophy.
of Seattle on Oct. 23. Triplett had three hits including an inside-thepark home run and three RBIs while junior Ana Nevills drove in two runs on three hits and scored four times to lead the Falcons over the seventhseeded Beavers.
early in the afternoon.
“Our team motto this season was ‘We R not done’ and I don't think it could have been more fitting,” Maupin said. “Even after our semifinal loss, the girls made the decision that they weren't finished
record, which coupled with the state trophy are indications the program is moving in the right direction,
“This season has been incredibly special, and while we are sad to see it come to an end, I am so excited about what the future holds,”
Senior outfielder Persais Triplett hit a momentum-changing three-run in-the-park home run, sophomore Addie Lent drove in three more runs and junior pitcher Colbie Hallett gave up two runs on five hits as Ridgeline defeated fellow Greater Spokane League foe Shadle Park 13-2 in the game for third / fourth place. “We are incredibly proud of this group of girls and what they accomplished this season,” head coach Lori Maupin said. “Finishing third at state and bringing home some hardware is an amazing way to end the year, especially as we made it to the final eight for the first time in program history.” The GSL captured all four trophy spots at state, with undefeated and top-ranked Mt. Spokane downing Deer Park 12-2 for its fourth consecutive state title. Ridgeline finished the regular season tied with University at 11-2 in the GSL standings, earning a No. 4 seed. They opened against the fifth-seeded Titans at home Oct. 12, tying the game at 5 in the bottom of the third and taking the lead in the bottom of the sixth on a Hallett
Photo by John McCallum Ridgeline pitcher Colbie Hallett gets high-fives in the dugout after smacking a home run to give the Falcons a 6-5 lead over University in opening round District 5/6 playoff action Oct. 12. Ridgeline went on to beat the Titans 16-6.
NOVEMBER 2026 • 17
The Splash Maupin said. “I can't wait to see what next year brings!” Cross country Both Falcons cross country teams find themselves in good positions as the postseason nears. As of Oct. 28, the Ridgeline girls were ranked fourth and the boys were seventh in the Washington State Cross Country Coaches Association’s 3A poll. Ridgeline girls finished the GSL regular season at 5-3 with all three losses coming against 4A opponents. The boys went 5-3-1, losing to Mt. Spokane, Mead and Shadle Park while tying Lewis and Clark. Both teams headed to District 6 competition Saturday, Oct. 31 at Veterans Memorial Golf Course in Walla Walla where the top three teams qualify for state Nov. 7 at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco. Ridgeline sophomore Emery Sevy leads all District 6 girl runners with a time of 18 minutes, 44.8 seconds. Teammates Chloe Lentz (freshman) and Kalia Blanchard (sophomore) are third and fourth with sophomore Maliah Tsuber 11th and freshman Abigail Moll 14th. “Our last few sharpening workouts have shown that the girls are ready,” girls head coach Heather Graham said of districts. “Our focus now is executing our race plans, trusting the work we've put in all season and racing for each other as we work toward our goal of advancing to state as a team.” As of Oct. 28 junior Grant Summers had the fifth best time among 3A boys runners in District 6. Senior Keean Huntsinger was 14th, junior Preston Nelson 18th, senior Kian Henry-Sutherland 20th and junior Aristides Teske 25th. “Our goal this season has been nothing short of qualifying for state and having a strong showing there,” boys head coach Peter McArthur said. McArthur praised his two top five seniors, noting Huntsinger and Henry-Sutherland kept with the program when it was at the bottom of the GSL and eventually became team leaders. “What makes Kian and Keean special is that they trusted their coach, the program, and the daily work before there was proof it would pay off,” McArthur said. Football
The Falcons were in control of a lot of things heading into the final week of league action. At 7-1 overall, 4-0 in 3A GSL, Ridgeline not only assured itself of a playoff spot but a shot at a league title — if it could knock off GSL third place visiting Cheney (3-5, 3-1) Oct. 29. Heading into its date with the Blackhawks the Falcons had won seven straight games, including a 35-17 win over Gonzaga Prep — the school’s first ever over the Bullpups. A loss to Cheney coupled with the outcome of the game between the other two playoff contenders Mt. Spokane (6-2, 3-1) and University (6-2, 2-2) would throw the playoff seeding picture into chaos.
A holiday guide for the Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Otis Orchards, Newman Lake, Airway Heights, Medical Lake, and West Plains areas
As of Oct. 28 the Falcons were ninth in the WIAA’s state 3A RPI rankings. Girls soccer The Falcons were fifth in the GSL at 5-1, 9-2-3 overall and second among 3A classification teams three points behind second-place Mt. Spokane. Ridgeline finished the league season with a 2-0 loss to the Wildcats on Oct. 21, earning a No. 4 seed to the District 6 tournament and hosting No. 5 seed Mid-Columbia Conference Southridge on Oct. 27. Against the Suns Reese Libey scored a pair of goals while Lydia Lynn scored another to propel Ridgeline to a 3-0 opening round win. The Falcons faced top-seeded Walla Walla, 1-0 winners over eighth-seeded Central Valley, in a semifinal match up Oct. 29.
“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 20 and 21, 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.
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The Falcons were fifth in Oct. 28 WIAA state 3A RPI rankings.
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Volleyball Ridgeline was second in the GSL behind Gonzaga Prep (8-0, 14-0) but first among 3A schools at 7-2, 11-4 overall. The Falcons had run off six consecutive match wins before losing on the road to the state 4A top-ranked Bullpup 3-0 on Oct. 21. Ridgeline wrapped up their regular season schedule Oct. 27 against visiting Cheney (3-5, 7-9), downing the Blackhawks 3-1 to secure their third straight league title. The GSL No. 1 receives a second seed in the district tournament which opens Nov. 3, hosting the No. 4 team out of the Mid-Columbia Conference. The Falcons were 10th in the Oct. 28 WIAA state 3A RPI rankings.
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Liberty Lake Gets Into the Spirit With First Halloween Decorating Contest By Nina Culver
Splash contributor
The City of Liberty Lake ran its first ever My Haunted Hometown competition in October, inviting homeowners with a flair for Halloween decorating to enter their homes in a competition for bragging rights and social media recognition. Liberty Lake Recreation Coordinator Mickael Stevens said he’s been trying to expand the city’s programs and wanted to follow up on last year’s successful Christmas decorating competition. He said he was looking for something simple for fall. “I am a staff of one,” he said. Homeowners were asked to identify if their decorations were spooky or scary. Fourteen homes were entered into the contest, 12 of them spooky. Stevens said he did it that way so people who don’t like scary decorations can avoid those homes. “Scary is more visceral, intense,” he said. “My kids don’t like scary, so we would go see the spooky.” Stevens said he recruited several volunteer judges, who went out and viewed all the homes the weekend before Halloween. A winner had not been announced by press time. Mark Saba has lived in Liberty Lake for the last 23 years and for 20 of those years, he’s been decorating his home for Halloween. “I do it for the kids,” he said. “It’s kind of neat that other people in my neighborhood are starting to do it now.” Saba, now retired, used to work for Jack Links Jerky and all the kids who visited his house on Halloween knew it. “I used to give out beef jerky,” he said. “Last year was the first year I didn’t.” Saba doesn’t decorate his entire yard, instead focusing most of his efforts on his wrap around patio. He
added blow up decorations last year for the first time. He goes all out in that space, however, utilizing lights timed to spooky music playing on a recording. He even put in a graveyard around his small pond. “We put in trim lights, so of course we have orange and purple,” he said. “Halloween is practically a national holiday around here. We get upwards of 200 kids here every year.” It takes about a day to set up the display and Saba said the compliments and gratitude he gets from trick-or-treaters makes it all worth it. Saba said he knew he probably wasn’t going to win the contest, but entered anyway because he wanted to support the city. However, his fate was sealed during the judging. Saba said he and his wife were out of town on judging weekend and didn’t realize an electrical breaker had tripped, which meant his lights didn’t come on and the music was silent.
Contributed Photo Liberty Lake Resident Lynn Atkins loves to decorate her home for her favorite holiday. Each year she adds to her decorations with each one being hand made. This years addition being to add music to the mix and possibly a giant pumpkin to go with her 12 foot tall Jack Skellington.
Still, Saba isn’t upset about the missed opportunity. “As long as it’s working on Halloween, that’s the main thing,” he said.
daughter told me, ‘Mom, go big or go home,’” she said. “I make most of my props to fit with that theme. Every year I’ve added on to it.”
Saba and his wife are Eastern Washington University football season ticket holders. There’s a game at 1 p.m. on Halloween, but Saba has his priorities. “I already told Karen, we’re leaving at half time,” he said. “We’ve got to get ready.”
One of her favorite decorations is a 12-foot-tall Jack Skellington that she made out of PVC pipe. She has three Halloween jack-in-theboxes, cutouts for her windows, a countdown wreath and a vampire teddy bear that flies over her front door. “It kind of just all goes together,” she said.
Lynn Atkins has lived in Liberty Lake for 10 years and has been decorating for Halloween ever since she bought her first home. “I decorate every year for it,” she said. “It’s my favorite holiday.” Her yard brings the “The Nightmare Before Christmas” movie to life, but Atkins never went out and bought a bunch of decorations. She made them all herself. “As my
The display includes lights and Atkins said she’s adding music this year. As the days to Halloween counted down, she had the pieces of what would be a pumpkin king rivaling Jack Skellington in size in her dining room. It wasn’t complete in time for judging weekend, but she hoped it would be finished in time for the big day.
Atkins said she has made an effort to keep her decorations family friendly. “I didn’t want stuff that was scary,” she said. “The kids love it, which is great.” Atkins said she entered the competition just for the fun of it and hopes it will return next year. “I want to try to support the programs the city does,” she said. “I hope it catches on. It’s just part of community.” Stevens said he was pleased by the response for the competition’s inaugural year. “You never know what you’re going to get with something new,” he said. “I was happy with it.” A map of the participating homes is available at https:// www.libertylakewa.gov/867/MyHaunted-Hometown.
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