2024 October Stream

The Water Front

unique aura to EWU football

By Craig Howard Stream contributor

A bobbled pass, a missed tackle, a substantial lead that crumbles away. Players and teams find themselves tested regularly on their ability to demonstrate resilience in the face of odds ranging from small to lofty.

Brandon Thomas faced such a moment in the spring of 2020 while a student-athlete at Central Valley High School. Lingering soreness in his right foot was not only interfering with his ability to participate with the track team, it was becoming a downright nuisance.

When Thomas went to a doctor to find out what was wrong, the diagnosis gravitated from sports injury to major medical concern. Osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, was discovered in his ankle. The recommendation – based on the risk of the cancer spreading – was to amputate just below the knee. The surgery took place on May 29, 2020.

Thomas said at the time he “wasn’t trying to explain the ‘why’” of the embattled scenario. The focus, he said, “was to just keep moving.”

Shift ahead to September of 2021 and Thomas is on a bus headed to Wenatchee with the rest of the Central Valley varsity football squad. Behind him are the chemotherapy sessions – 90 in the first 120 days after the operation –a solid year without football and a series of adjustments to life with a prosthetic foot.

“It felt awkward at first but now, it’s like a second leg,” Thomas says. The crucible would play out its next chapter on the turf against Eastmont in a non-league season opener that felt like a high-energy playoff contest based on the caravan of Central Valley fans that ventured

“He was out there, making plays, being the Brandon we knew he could be,” Devon recalled.

As a sophomore, Thomas had earned All Greater Spokane League first team honors as a relentless middle linebacker, roving all sections of the field in pursuit of ballcarriers. Now, the speculation was how Thomas would be able to compete with a lightweight substitute for his foot.

Reprising his role as CV’s dynamic defensive presence, Thomas left any doubt on the sidelines as he finished his return season with 71 tackles en route to the All GSL honorable mention squad. His last season at CV, Thomas amassed 119 tackles on his way to being named the league’s defensive MVP.

Central Washington, Linfield, University of Puget Sound, Whitworth, Carrol College and Eastern Washington.

The Thomas family had strong ties in Cheney with Brandon’s mom, Melanie, working as a student success advisor in the Center for Academic Advising and Retention at EWU and Brandon’s older brother, Joshua, being part of the Eagles’ basketball roster from 2016-2019. Before moving onto Gonzaga, Devon worked as EWU deputy athletic director from 2018 to 2021.

Eventually, Brandon decided to become an Eagle, joining the program as a preferred walk-on in the summer of 2023.

“Brandon can play,” said Aaron Best, EWU head coach. “He elevates everyone around him.

Thomas moved from linebacker to defensive end when he arrived on campus. After redshirting his freshman season, he is now vying for playing time on a deep roster. With the season nearly halfway over, Thomas is hoping to see the field on special teams.

Best said Thomas came to EWU “understanding the standards.”

“He’s got the work ethic, all the tools, the resources, the toughness,” Best said. “It’s going to be up to him.”

In the classroom, Thomas is a Health/Physical Ed. major with a goal of becoming a teacher and coach.

“I want to be in a position where I can make a change in people’s lives,” he said.

Thomas has already used his experience as a platform to help those facing similar hurdles. He has accompanied members of the Seattle Seahawks to Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Spokane, cheering up patients more interested in talking to the local hero than players from the region’s established NFL team.

“That meant so much to me to be able to talk with those kids,” Thomas said. “I always want to help because I know how it feels, how desperate the situation can be.”

Thomas said he has felt right at home with his EWU teammates.

“It’s been really nice,” he said. “They want to know who I really am.”

Over the summer, Thomas began another life chapter, getting married and moving into a home in Liberty Lake. His wife, McKenna, was one year ahead of him at Central Valley. Throughout the rigorous path to healing and his triumphant return to the football field, Thomas said he has always focused on remaining positive, a mindset that he said has

Photo courtesy of Eastern Washington University Athletic Department

Brandon Thomas is a redshirt freshman for the Eastern Washington University football squad. The defensive end graduated from Central Valley High School in Spokane Valley in 2023. His time as a student-athlete in high school included being diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his right ankle. The bone cancer led to part of Thomas’s foot being amputated and replaced with a prosthetic.

“brought a lot of hope.”

“Now, I truly believe that God is still guiding me down His path,” he said.

In December, Thomas will go in for his annual scan, his fourth such screening. After five clean scans, he will be declared officially in remission.

“No matter what, I know it’s going to be OK,” Thomas said.

Q: You were familiar with EWU before you became an Eagle with both of your parents working at the school and your brother playing basketball there. How does it feel to finally be part of the culture there first-hand as a student-athlete?

A: Eastern holds a special place in my family’s heart! It feels like coming home but in a way that’s entirely my own. Being part of a community that has always been supportive and inclusive means a lot to me. I’ve been surrounded by the energy of Eastern for as long as I can remember and now to live it firsthand as a student-athlete is such a full-circle moment. There’s a deep sense of pride in representing a place that has given so much to my family.

Q: You’ve never been someone who has been comfortable with special treatment related to your prosthesis. How would you characterize the way your coaches and fellow players have treated you since you walked onto campus?

A: They’ve treated me like anyone else and that’s exactly how I want it. From day one, there wasn’t any special treatment, which I appreciated. My coaches and teammates know I’m here to work, just like everyone else. Over time, I think they realized I don’t need to be handled differently. I’m a football player first and I put in the same effort as everyone else. They see me as part of the team, not as someone who requires special attention.

Q: Your major at EWU is preparing you to be a teacher and coach. Why did you decide to pursue this career direction?

A: I want to make a difference, just like my teachers and coaches made in my life. There were times when I felt like I didn’t belong but a teacher would be the one to make

me feel seen. My coaches were like family, they didn’t just care about my performance on the field, they cared about who I was as a person. I saw the power they had to impact young lives and that stuck with me. I want to be part of that for someone else – to support, guide and uplift.

Q: Along those lines, what advice and encouragement do you offer to those who are going through the early stages of what you went through several years ago?

A: It sounds cliché, but “It gets better.” When you’re in the thick of it, it can feel like the worst thing imaginable but hope makes all the difference. Having a positive mindset was key for me. There’s a lot that’s out of your control but if you can focus on what you can control –your attitude, your determination –it makes the journey more bearable. Celebrate small victories, because they’ll give you the strength to keep going when it feels like you’re up against something too big to handle.

Q: We all go through struggles in our lives, some more difficult than others. What do you think are some of the best ways to generate resilience in the face of these challenges?

A: Staying positive in the face of adversity is key. I didn’t realize how much strength positivity could give me until I went through my chemotherapy journey. It’s easy to get weighed down by anger or frustration but if you can choose to stay hopeful and focus on what you can control, you’ll find resilience. It’s about getting back up every time you’re knocked down and knowing that it’s OK to lean on others when you need help. Positivity opens up possibilities, even in the hardest moments.

Q: Finally, what are you looking forward to most in your remaining years as an Eagle?

A: I’m looking forward to my first start on the red field! It’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid and to finally be so close to that goal feels incredible. I can’t wait to keep being a part of this community and this team. Every year here is a blessing and I’m just excited to keep growing, both as a player and a person. There’s something special about Eastern and I’m looking forward to making the most of every moment while I’m here.

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 25 and 26, 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 (Nov. 30) and throughout the holiday season.

A total of 50,000 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!

Nov. 6

Nov. 9

AH council approves street, utilities projects

By John McCallum Stream Contributor

Construction projects, Comprehensive Plan updates and continued funding for the city’s Recreation Center were some of the items highlighting Airway Heights City Council agendas at meetings in late-September through mid-October.

Council approves 6th Avenue extension

While some jurisdictions are seeing a ramping down of construction projects, work in Airway Heights continues at a steady pace with the council approval of three new projects slated to begin soon.

After being briefed on the project at its Sept. 16 meeting, the City Council approved awarding the bid for the 6th Avenue Extension at its Sept. 23 meeting to North Fork Enterprises, LLC. Based in Pinehurst, Idaho, North Fork was the lowest of nine bids opened on Sept. 5, coming in at $3,794,920.10 — about 22% below the engineering estimate of $4,636,897.

The almost $4.64 million in funding for the project comes from a variety of federal and state sources as well as locally from the Spokane Transit Authority and CHAS. The project calls for 6th Avenue to be designed and reconstructed as a boulevard, with the roadway extended west 600 feet to Craig Road from South Ketchum Drive. Roundabouts will be installed at Lundstrom and Lawson streets, with infill sidewalk on the north side and a shared-used path on the south side along with other items completing the work.

Also, at the Sept. 23 meeting, council approved a $580,00 contract with Ardurra Group, Inc. for project management services on the 6th Avenue work. Ardurra, who the city has hired for other projects, will handle administration and construction

management that includes inspection, preconstruction and weekly construction meetings, submittal review, pay request administration and related activities along with quality assurance testing.

Sewer lift station, utility extension approved

Council approved a pair of utility project awards at its Oct. 7 meeting. The first awarded the contract for construction of a southside wastewater lift station and force main to Big Sky ID Corp.

Based in Hayden, Idaho, Big Sky was the lowest responsive bidder out of eight on the project at $1,099,394.75 — about 20% below the engineering estimate of $1,375,378.37. As with the 6th Avenue Extension, council approved a $165,000 work order with the city’s engineering consultant, Century West, to provide administration and construction management oversight on the project through closeout.

City engineer and Assistant Public Works Director Steve Flude said the work order contract was about 15% of the total construction cost.

“Which is inline with the industry standard of being within 15 – 20%,” Flude added.

The project scope includes installation of a new lift station and approximately 3,000 feet of 6-inch sewer pipe to connect the station to a 12-inch force main. The project also requires some augur boring and pipe casing installation under the nearby Spokane County Rail Spur.

Funding for the project comes from a $241,000 appropriation from the state Legislature along with $1.144 million of the $1.5 million Airway Heights received in federal coronavirus relief.

The second utility-related project approved by council on Oct. 7 was another work order with Century West, this one for a utilities extension in conjunction with the 6th Avenue project. The actual construction project was previously awarded to DW Excavating for $1,287,697.32.

Century West will provide

project management and oversight on extending reclaimed water utilities from King Street west to Landreth Park prior to street work beginning. The work order cost is not to exceed $246,000.

The project is funded by a 20year, 1.2% interest loan from the state Department of Ecology’s Centennial Water State Revolving Fund.

Comprehensive Plan funding approved

Council approved a pair of action items at its Oct. 7 meeting related to the city’s 2026 Comprehensive Plan Periodic update. The first was a $125,000 contract with consulting firm Frameworks, who the city has used on other projects including its current Missing Middle Housing Plan.

Principal Planner Heather Trautman said Frameworks would be overseeing the work of other consultants hired by the city through the use of grants to handle specific parts of the plan update process. Frameworks will also help with the city’s 20year Capital Plan and the 20year Transportation Plan as well as engaging public input, plan analysis, plan drafts and final and legislative support.

Trautman said Frameworks has familiarity with Airway Heights, not only through its work on the Missing Middle Housing Plan but also helping prepare the city’s 2023 Comprehensive Plan — now being updated due to new requirements enacted by the state Legislature.

“They did prepare the last plan for us, and we won an award

from the governor for Smart Communities,” Trautman said, adding the city will receive the physical award this November.

The second action item approved Oct. 7 was a contract with the state Department of Commerce to receive a $125,000 Periodic Update Grant to cover the cost of the Frameworks contract. The funding will be issued in two cycles of $62,500 each cycle.

Airway Heights has also received additional grant funding from DOC to support its update process, including $400,000 for the required Resiliency and Green House Gas Emission Reductions Elements (sustainability) chapter and a $50,000 grant for the Missing Middle Housing chapter that will provide housing policy development. Both new chapters are required under new Growth Management Act additions recently passed by the state Legislature.

Council approves Recreation Center funding

The council unanimously approved a request at the Sept. 16 meeting from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department to apply for funding from the Airway Heights Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) to help cover maintenance and operations costs for the Recreation Center in 2025.

LTAC approved the $200,000 request at its Sept. 23 meeting, and the City Council subsequently signed on to the approval at its Oct. 7 meeting.

The committee indicated at its Sept. 23 meeting that the LTAC fund balance was $452,844.44 at that time.

ML council approves repeal of Coney dock width restrictions

By John McCallum Stream contributor

Plans for a new fixed pier and floating dock at Coney Island are back to their original design after the City Council approved an appeal of changes made by the Planning Commission that would have significantly alternated the size and layout of the proposed structure.

That, along with approval of a quarterly budget amendment and a contract for road work on Lefevre Street were several highlights of council action in late September and early October meetings.

Pier and dock width changes repealed

The City Council originally approved 700 square feet of pier and dock materials to be installed along the shoreline at Coney Island Park downtown. The purchase, materials and labor valued at almost $100,000, was made earlier this year and included a 25-foot-wide by 20-foot-deep fixed pier that would be anchored near the shore, along with a 20-foot-long, 5-foot-wide floating fishing dock connected with the pier via a 20-foot-long and 5-foot-wide walkway.

City Planner Elisa Rodriguez told council that during the permitting process, the city had checked the Medical Lake Shoreline Plan regulations and determined the structure didn’t require any developmental review, such as by the Planning Commission. However, they were subsequently informed by the state Department of Ecology that public docks, unlike private docks, do indeed require a developmental review.

The proposal was sent to the commission, which held a public

Graphic courtesy of the city of Medical Lake

A dimensional layout of the proposed Coney Island Park fixed pier and floating dock configuration. Changes made by the city’s Planning Commission — subsequently overturned by the City Council — would have reduced the width of the fixed pier to no more than 5 feet.

hearing, receiving input from city staff and five individuals either at the meetings or through written correspondence. After three meetings, the commission approved the proposal but attached six conditions such as requiring “No Trespassing” signs along the park’s fenced perimeter, “No Parking On Trail” signs along Jefferson Street, installation of surveillance cameras and reducing the width of the pier and dock to no more than 5 feet.

Medical Lake resident Brian Papiez filed an appeal with the City Council of the commission’s decision to limit the width of the pier and dock. Papiez stated the limitations prohibit disabled people from fishing comfortably, the launching of more than one

specifications” and proposed uses for the pier and dock, not “what-ifs.” Many of the planned uses can take place together, he added, and asked council to at least restore the pier and dock’s original width.

“This will ensure that it remains a safe, accessible, and enjoyable resource for all members of our community,” he wrote.

Several council members agreed with Papiez. Councilman Don Kennedy, who said he has a floating dock, felt the width should be at least 8 feet, otherwise it becomes unstable and could cause problems.

“Kids see the dock (bobbing) up and down and they want to try and make it go up and down,” he added.

Rodriguez said there were no development conditions or goals in the city’s plans that addressed resident’s concerns regarding number of people on a dock. She settled on the 5-foot width limitation through addressing the issue of shading in the water, a condition that can inhibit growth of naturally occurring water plants.

The commission noted in its decision that the pier and dock will be constructed of “Snap Deck,” a glass-filled polypropylene material that allows for 40% light penetration.

watercraft at a time, and that “as a community resource it should not be limited in size because the neighbors fear it will be a ‘party dock.’”

One person providing written testimony to the commission referred to the 500-square-foot fixed pier as a “party dock” while others suggested relocating the dock to Waterfront Park on the south end of the lake. City officials and council members have expressed a desire for a dock at Coney Island because of the park’s proximity to downtown and events that take place in that area along with being within walking distance from local neighborhoods, making it more easily accessible than Waterfront.

Papiez wrote the commission should have focused on “actual

Council voted 4-3 to repeal the commission’s size limitations on the pier and dock. In an Oct. 3 phone interview, City Administrator Sonny Weathers said going back to the original plan will allow more flexibility with the dock’s size and use in the future.

“We’re taking an incremental approach,” he said. “It’s not meant to be all things that a dock can be.”

Council approves Lefevre work

Council voted unanimously at its Sept. 17 meeting to award the Lefevre Street Complete Streets sidewalk and lighting repair project to Liberty Concrete of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, albeit with a caveat inserted by Mayor Terri Cooper that the resolution

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doing so “reflect that funding is pending TIB (Transportation Improvement Board) approval.” The motions to make the changes and approve the contract passed unanimously.

Liberty provided the lowest responsive bid of four bidders on the project at $2,197,832.50. The city received a TIB grant on March 22 for 94% of eligible costs on the project not to exceed $1,586,720, and an updated cost estimate award from TIB of $499,310 for the project on Aug. 29.

The engineering estimate for the project was $2,085,560. The city must provide matching funds for the balance of the work.

At the Oct. 1 meeting, council unanimously approved a service contract with Liberty for the work. The contract confirms the funding and outlines responsibilities and expectations between the two parties.

“It’s a standard form that our engineers use previously for other projects as well,” Weathers told the council.

Council approves budget amendment, planning grant Council unanimously approved an ordinance increasing the city’s 2024 budget by $287,650 to cover expenses through the second quarter of the year. Eight departments were covered by six expense amendments, the largest begin $104,000 for legal fees for franchises and expenses associated with Broadlinc broadband-related activities, $75,000 for a Parks and Recreation bus purchase in 2023 but posted in 2024, and $60,000 in the Tourism Fund for unanticipated expenses.

Council approved the first reading of the ordinance on Sept. 17, and the second and final passage on Oct. 1.

Council also approved receipt of a $62,500 Department of Commerce grant at their Oct. 1 meeting. The grant will help city staff with development plan updates required under the Growth Management Act.

Special Election Guide 2024

Dear Readers:

With the upcoming election heating up and the sea of political signs filling our streets, we at The Stream 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 restaurant?

2. What is your favorite book?

3. What is your favorite quote?

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 live in the 9th Washington State Legislative District, we did reach out to all of the candidates for those positions and most declined. We would encourage you to reach out to your state elected officials and let them know you would like to hear from them (and feel free to mention your favorite news source, The West Plains Stream as one they might want engage with).

Senator Mark Schoesler,

mschoesler@yahoo.com; Representative Mary Dye electmarydye@gmail.com; and Representative Joe Schmick people4schmick@ gmail.com

For those who haven’t registered to vote or accidently lose your ballot, you can register all the way up to election day and/or get a replacement ballot in person by going to Elections Office- 1033 W Gardner Ave or EWU Catalyst Building - 601 E Riverside Ave

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

The Stream

Vote by November 5th

Where is your favorite restaurant?

Dave Reichert - Sorrento’s Ristorante in Chelan

Dan Matthews - Rusty Moose (Spokane)

Michael BaumgartnerAnywhere with my wife

Carmela Conroy - familyowned

Dave Larson - Red Robin

Sharon Hanek - local Thai Restaurant in Bonney Lake

Dr. Pam Kohlmeier-Taste of India in Spokane

Jaime Herrera Beutler - I like home cooking

Dave Upthegrove - Pho Vina Vietnamese Restaurant in Burien

Chris Reykdal - The Brick (Tumwater, WA)

Pete Serrano - any place that sells good chicken wings

Nick Brown - Communion

Matt Hawkins - Arbys

Michaela Kelso - Home

Al French - Rusty Moose

Molly Marshall - Sala Thai

Steven McCray - Mango Tree

Marla Polin - Fiesta Mexicana

Brandon Casey - Hogan’s Café/Diner

Tim Fennessy - Salty’s

Andrew Van WinkleTrailbreaker Cider

Patrick Miller - Inland Pacific Kitchen

Washington governor

Dave Reichert -R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

For nearly 40 years our state has been lost in a wilderness of one-party rule. What has that gotten us? The highest violent crime rate in our history, friends and family dying from fentanyl, record homelessness, and the worst maintained roads, highways, and ferries in America.

From the United States Air Force to the King County Sheriff’s Office, I witnessed examples of selfless sacrifice,

individuals who put others before themselves. That experience taught me what it means to have a servant’s heart, honored by an opportunity to help, and driven to show the courage and humility it takes to get things done. As King County Sheriff, I arrested violent criminals and locked up human traffickers who preyed on women and children. On my watch crime was down as we enforced the law, and everyone was accountable. This experience served me well when the people of Washington sent me to Congress where I worked with Republicans and Democrats to pass big and bold policies on everything from taxes to trade to protecting our beautiful environment

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

Now, Washington families

Washington Lt. Governor

What best qualifies you for this position?

My education, training, professional career, and public service have been focused on leadership and service. Government is in the people business, and I have had a life of leadership, responsibility, and working with countless people in varied efforts.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, and Master’s in Public Administration. I have served as a Legislative Intern to a Senator.

Veteran – a retired USAF Pilot and Lt. Colonel – with 22 years of service, having flown in both Vietnam and Desert Storm.

31 years at Northwest Airlines, retired 747 Captain, Instructor Pilot, and Examiner; served 8 years at Boeing consulting in Pilot Instruction and Leadership. Service on various Boards and Commissions,

are struggling to make ends meet. I entered this race to help those families. Not because of any political ambition, but because I saw families struggling and I have a record of fighting for them.

We must focus on lowering property and energy taxes. We need to pass the stalled legislation that will make childcare more affordable with tax credits and subsidies; streamline zoning laws and speed up permitting to bring down housing costs by increasing supply; and use tax credits to incentivize rent relief.

As your governor, I will work tirelessly to foster an economy that works for everyone, safe streets and neighborhoods, and ensure the children in our state get a world class education.

including as a STEM Educator, and Church Board leader. Also served in elective office: 4-years on a local School Board, and as a Commissioner, always seeking to make a constructive difference.

Professionally, my role has been to safely navigate to every destination, knowing people’s lives depended on me; my skills, judgment, and professionalism, and the crew I led.

As Lt Governor, I see my role, among others, as a Bridge-Builder and Unifier; a Communicator, Team-Builder, Peacemaker and Statesman. My goal: restoring respect, civility, and accountability in our State government.

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

We live in an era – surrounded with information and nearly instant news; with facts and figures at our fingertips – yet, both politics and culture are dominated by deception and misinformation,

empowered by a malignant complacency, and media determined to lead us astray.

If it makes one feel good, or righteous; assuages some inner guilt; or allows you to virtue signal – it is embraced, even called TRUE – though facts and real truth often tell another story.

The antidote for those who are unaware, or those who don’t care, is a well-informed electorate. Without this, the lie, and liars, will succeed.

Dan Matthews - R Candidate

U.s. Congress, 5th district

Michael Baumgartner - R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

Eastern Washington is my home. I was born here, and got my degree in Economics from WSU.

I have a proven record fighting for Eastern Washington and winning. Over eight years serving in the State Senate, I passed balanced budgets, fought for lower taxes and helped bring a WSU medical school to Spokane. I helped secure funding for vital local highway projects, and we cut

college tuition for the first time in state history.

As Spokane County Treasurer my office has returned $120 million to taxpayers through our Public Investment Fund. I don’t set taxes, but I successfully opposed the recent “monster tax” proposal and I’ve offered the longest tax extensions in the state.

I’m honored by the support of Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Sen. Mike Padden, Phil Altmeyer, David Condon, members of law enforcement, veterans and groups representing business and agriculture.

My wife Eleanor and I make our home in Spokane. We met working in Afghanistan (she was British), and now we live here with our five children.

If elected to Congress, I will work for all of Eastern Washington and my door will always be open.

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

My agenda and values reflect Eastern Washington priorities. I’ll work hard to secure our borders, make our neighborhoods safe, protect Fairchild Air Force Base, and champion hydropower and agriculture.

One of my greatest concerns is stopping inflation. Families are feeling the steep rises in prices of everything from gas to groceries - and businesses are struggling. The government is spending too much, taxing too much and borrowing too much – it’s got to stop before everything becomes unaffordable.

We must tackle our spiraling national debt, stop spending more than our means, and refocus our federal government on its core functions.

Wa supreme court pos. 2

What best qualifies you for this position?

Judge Dave Larson is our best choice for Supreme Court Justice because he will protect our civil rights and uphold the law and constitution as written. Judge Larson has a record of fairness and impartiality, which is why he’s enjoyed strong support from Democrats, Republicans, and Independents over his career. During this time of growing division, we need a Justice like Dave Larson.

He has 35 years of legal experience including experience as a seasoned trial judge, an accomplished trial lawyer, and an innovative mediator. He has also taught new judges on multiple subjects for 10 years as a faculty member of the state’s Judicial College.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I am a third generation Eastern Washingtonian and union member, and for nearly 30 years I was an apolitical public servant. After graduating Central Valley High School, putting myself through college and law school, I was a Spokane County Deputy Prosecutor for four years. As a deputy prosecutor I held accountable impaired drivers and violent offenders and sought justice for survivors of sexual assault.

From there I joined the U.S. State Department as a Foreign Service Officer, helping American Citizens in trouble, ensuring our Military had access to facilities guaranteed by treaty, and promoted democratic values and open and inclusive economies. While working for Ambassador Tom Foley in

Japan, I became proficient in the language of WA05’s third most valuable agricultural export market, and then and ever since have applied our local values to find common sense solutions to complex problems.

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

The House of Representatives must focus on its Constitutional responsibilities to find common sense solutions to provide for national defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty for ourselves and future generations. We must restore the freedoms of individuals to make personal decisions and organize for better working conditions. Congress must address affordability, lowering the cost of housing, childcare, medical care, and prescription drugs. Public money belongs in public schools; we must properly support

veterans and their families.

Extremists grinding the government to a halt for any single issue, or on behalf of one segment of the electorate to the exclusion of others, make the current Congress the least productive in history. Eastern Washington can contribute to a moderate, accountable federal government by electing a moderate candidate with broad experience in tough negotiations on behalf of the United States. I would be humbled to have your vote.

Judge Dave Larson has been a champion for improving our courts. He’s developed and supported reforms to reduce domestic violence, combat drug addiction, and better serve the mentally ill. Judge Dave Larson knows these same approaches can be used to reduce the community impacts of the homelessness crisis, humanely making our communities safer. He is also trusted and respected in minority communities and will be able to build bridges as we look for better ways to equitably handle criminal and civil cases in our courts.

If you know Judge Larson, you know how much he cares about the people who appear in his courtroom and how purpose-driven he is to help people have better lives. He’s fair, compassionate, respectful, has a great legal mind, and he knows the law and the State Constitution.

In sum, Judge Larson has the character and legal experience we need in our next Justice.

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

The Supreme Court is in charge of running our state’s court system and that is exactly why his leadership is needed to help reform how our courts handle the cases that are adversely affecting so many people and communities across this state.

Carmela Conroy - D Candidate

Dave Larson Candidate

Tim Judge Fennessy

EXPERIENCED. RESPECTED. EFFECTIVE.

Choosing the right person for the critical job of Judge can sometimes be a challenge. For this race, the choice is clear.

Here’s Why : Judge Fennessy

• has the most judicial and legal experience;

• has the endorsements of every other sitting Superior Court Judge in Spokane County as well as more than 80 attorneys and over 100 community members;

• was elected Presiding Judge to lead the bench for 2024 and 2025;

• received a Well Qualified rating in the Spokane County Bar Association poll evaluating integrity, temperament, legal ability, relevant experience and suitability.

SUPERIOR COURT JUDGES FOR FENNESSY

Judge Rachelle E. Anderson

Judge Breean L. Beggs

Judge Charnelle M. Bjelkengren

Judge Dean T. Chuang

Judge Raymond F. Clary

Judge Tony Hazel

Judge Jacquelyn High-Edward

Judge Julie M. McKay

Judge Marla L. Polin

Judge Annette S. Plese

Judge Jeremy T. Schmidt

Judge Michelle D. Szambelan

WA State treasurer

Sharon Hanek - R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

My career started as a CPA working for a medium local firm then I started my family. I continued my career as a private practice while raising three children and caring for aging parents. I enjoyed serving my community as a board member of family service organizations, PTA, and my local Little League then I turned to politics running for office, serving on my county’s Planning Commission, Redistricting Commission, Charter Review Commission and our Birth to 25 Advisory Board.

Now I am hoping to use my CPA experience in accounting, financial systems analysist, investment advisor, and internal control management combined with an understanding of government systems to be your next State Treasurer.

What is the most

9th Leg Dist Rep Pos 2

important issue that needs to be addressed?

The role of State Treasurer is to manage the State’s investments, maintain a healthy debt structure and oversee the State’s cash flow system. There has never been a CPA from the private sector as State Treasurer and according to our State Auditor’s reports; our State is suffering from mismanagement of cash flows, expenditures that cannot be accounted for and embezzlement from foreign nationals. Taxpayer’s are being asked to step up and pay for these costs at a time when the government agencies and schools should be closing loopholes from lack of proper financial controls.

I am asking for your vote so that I can be your next State Treasurer that has the knowledge and experience to strengthen the internal control structures of Washington State.

What best qualifies you for this position?

Our healthcare system is in crisis (including inadequate access to care, unsustainable costs, etc.). As an emergency physician and an attorney, I understand the complexity of this issue and will provide a needed perspective to help stabilize the crisis. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

to mental health services and addressing the opioid epidemic.

The most important issue involves stabilizing our healthcare system including improving

Dr. Pam Kohlmeier - D Candidate

wa public lands commissioner

Jaime Herrera Beutler - R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

Serving as a U.S. Congresswoman, where I advanced bipartisan laws to improve our wildland firefighting capabilities, increase pay for firefighters, improve proactive and sciencebased forest management, improve forest roads and expand access to public lands, protect wildlife habitat and salmon runs, support shellfish habitat,

protect family wage jobs and secure funding for Washington schools. I’ve worked with Republicans and Democrats to advance legislation important to Washington state. My legislation has been signed into law by three presidents. In addition, I served in the Washington State House of Representatives from 20072010.

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

Reducing catastrophic wildfires before they start by cleaning up our forests. We should be attaining the sustainable harvest calculations. Active forest management will make our forests healthy; more fire resilient, abundant with a diverse array of animals and habitat.

PUBLIC SAFETY IS ON THE BALLOT

What best qualifies you for this position?

Managing our public lands in the public interest for all the people of the State of Washington will be my goal. Our state lands don’t belong to industry. They don’t belong to big business. They belong to “We the People.” They are public lands. Our lands.

As an experienced manager who gets results, I’ve dedicated my life to preserving Washington’s clean air, clean water, and public lands to support habitat, recreation and jobs. With deep experience leading the House Environment Committee and spearheading conservation efforts while representing a diverse suburban community, I will be ready to effectively manage our 6 million acres of public lands on day one. Throughout my career, I’ve found

common ground across divides to help clean up Puget Sound and the Spokane River and protect public lands, and I’m committed to adding working class jobs. From preventing wildfires to expanding recreational opportunities, my commitment to balancing our environment and economic health will continue as your Lands Commissioner.

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

The most important issue that needs to be addressed is improving wildfire prevention and response. This is a critical issue of public safety. We must improve our prevention efforts on state lands. This means increasing our investments in prescribed burns, commercial thinning and noncommercial thinning. It also means not neglecting routine land management like invasive

weed removal. I will nurture and steward our lands to prevent wildfire and disease while growing them healthy for the next generation. I also will support our fire professionals and use my state legislative experience to fight to get them the resources they need. That’s why the WA State Council of Firefighters has endorsed my campaign. They know what’s at stake and know I am best prepared to keep our state safe.

Ballot

Dave Upthegrove - D Candidate

Paid for by Al French For County Commissioner | GOP PO Box 10660 | Spokane,

“Al French is the only candidate who fully supports our law enforcement officers ” – Sheriff John Nowels

What is your favorite book?

Dave Reichert - Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin

Dan Matthews - The Bible

Michael Baumgartner - Cassell’s Tales of Endurance (Fleming)

Carmela Conroy - Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

Dave Larson - Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy

Sharon Hanek - Anything by J. A. Jance

Dr. Pam KohlmeierWonder by R.J. Palacio

Jaime Herrera Beutler - John Adams, by David McCullough

Dave Upthegrove - Sooley by John Grisham

Chris Reykdal - Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey

Pete Serrano - the US Constitution

Nick Brown - Dune, by Frank Hebert

Matt Hawkins - The Three Year Swim Club

Michaela Kelso#AlltheBooks

Al French - King James Bible

Molly Marshall - Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

Steven McCray - Charlotte’s Web

Marla Polin - To Kill a Mockingbird

Brandon Casey - Suspect by Robert Crais

Tim Fennessy - Dune

Andrew Van WinkleAgatha Christie’s And Then There Were None

Patrick Miller - A Psalm for the Wild-built -- Chambers

Superintendent of Public Instruction

Chris Reykdal Incumbant

What best qualifies you for this position?

I would start with my life experience. Not only did I grow up in public schools, but I did so as a child dependent on public assistance. I’ve seen the barriers even to public schools when you don’t have financial resources, and I’ve dedicated my entire life to public education so that I can break down barriers for every child.

I would also add my

Initiative 2117

Repeal the Hidden Gas Tax

The CCA was enacted in 2023 and prices at the gas pump, in the grocery store and the costs to power homes and businesses immediately increased. This tax trickles down to consumers in a number of ways: The carbon auction has increased prices on gasoline to the tune of $0.30-$0.50 per gallon of gas - the average household will spend upwards of $500 per year on the gas tax. Delivery services and drivers are forced to pay more to deliver goods - when their prices increase, so do prices in stores and for their services. Energy costs have increased nearly 40%

professional experience. I’m a first-generation college student and I’ve worked as a summer custodian, teacher, coach, school board member, college executive, foundation trustee, legislator, and K-12 executive. I’ve worked in and supported the K-12 system from every angle. I’ve built coalitions to achieve budget and policy success, and these strong coalitions and relationships are absolutely essential in being successful in this State Superintendent role.

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

We must maintain our focus in all policy and budget matters on closing opportunity gaps! This includes increasing access to comprehensive and effective mental health care for all students that need it. Having

for most Washingtonians and energy providers are restricted from listing the CCA as the reason on your bill. All of this amounts to the most regressive tax in state history because the lower the income, the more it hurts. Governor Inslee and his administration lied to residents by claiming that the CCA would only increase costs by “pennies” even when he knew it would increase about $0.50 per gallon. Inslee and his administration haven’t released any metrics on their environmental policy successes since 2019 and there is no mechanism to track the success or failure of the CCA. Our state constitution guarantees funding for schools and the state has a $19

support at school, where our kids spend most of their weekdays, is so important to their health, wellbeing, and learning. We have made measurable progress closing gaps, but the work must persist, and it must be embedded in every aspect of our education system. I am the only candidate in this race that has experience closing these opportunity gaps in every aspect of the K-12 system. I am also the only candidate that truly needed public services and education to break the cycle of poverty in my family, and I think this gives me a deeper perspective to leading that is truly necessary when you are talking about closing opportunity gaps.

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

billion surplus over the last 6 years so there is ample money to dole out to transportation and climate-supporting projects. The only thing the CCA has successfully accomplished is increasing costs and taking more of Washingtonian’s hardearned money - it’s time to stop paying for programs that don’t work. Vote “yes” on I-2117.

Wa state attorney General

Pete Serrano - R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

Raised by a teacher and a police officer, I learned early on the value of service and giving back to my community. I’m running for Attorney General to restore public safety, bring back transparency, and protect your rights.

As an environmental lawyer with the Department of Energy, I led impactful projects, such as converting government land into

renewable energy and overseeing the cleanup of the Hanford Site. These experiences reinforced my belief in accountability and transparency—principles I live by.

Since 2018, I’ve served on the Pasco City Council, where I’ve championed public safety, inclusivity, and transparent governance, making sure government works for the people. I founded the Silent Majority Foundation to push back against government overreach and protect individual rights. I understand what it takes to tackle tough issues, and I’m ready to bring that same resolve to the Attorney General’s office.

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

The most urgent issue facing our state is public safety. I’ll work to support law enforcement while protecting individual rights. I’ll fight to get fentanyl and other dangerous drugs off our streets and take decisive action to combat human trafficking in Washington.

As your Attorney General, I will prioritize public safety, ensure government transparency, and defend your rights. I’m ready to bring my experience, passion, and commitment to serve and protect all Washingtonians.

wa state auditor

Matt Hawkins - R Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

My 35 + years of Private industry experience along with my community involvement in raising a family with my wife Paula of 38 years, and 10 children.

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

We have a multitude of challenges within this state; However the core issue is Trust.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I joined ROTC to help pay for college, graduated from Morehouse College and got a law degree from Harvard. I then began my service in the Army where I served as a Judge Advocate General, protecting our soldiers from fraud.

When I came home from Iraq, I finished my Army service at JBLM. I then worked as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and was subsequently appointed as General Counsel for Governor Jay Inslee. In my years with Gov. Inslee, we stood up to Donald Trump and his hateful Muslim ban and sought to create a more just system by ending the death penalty in our state.

In 2021, I became the U.S. Attorney for Western

Washington, where I focused on fighting drug cartels and sex trafficking, addressing the fentanyl crisis, and partnering with the community to reduce violent crime. But perhaps my proudest accomplishments in that office were working to keep every Washingtonian safe by preventing and prosecuting hate crimes and protecting the most vulnerable and members of marginalized communities.

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

My top priority is public safety. Everyone has a right to feel safe in their community, no matter their age, race, gender, who they love, or where they live. My whole career I’ve fought for public safety. I know what it takes to keep our communities safe, while also building a more just legal system. I’ve worked with

victims of crimes, including children, people who have been defrauded by corporate greed and malfeasance, and individuals failed by the system. That’s who I fight for – everyday people who deserve protection and safety. The Office of Attorney General is uniquely positioned to build a safer Washington and as your next AG, I will do everything in my power to make sure everyone can thrive.

From the Auditors role, Trust can be regained as Audits are comprehensive and complete. When we are told that we lost “At Least” $647 Million in the Nigerian Scam, the real question is how much did we really lose? Our schools are funded on average with $18,000/ student, statewide, yet our scores are declining. We are losing Billions, with no clear path to recovery.

Further challenges are in being overregulated in all industries, a homelessness crisis, Elections, as well as our transportation corridors. As I dig deeper into these challenges, I recognize that our problems are not centered so much on Financial challenges, but one of Process and Systems that need to be changed. Better Audits can make this happen. As for Elections, we have not had an audit of the election system in the past 25 years, to the same standards as are experienced in the private sector.

As Auditor, I can help ensure that funds are accounted for, as well as being applied correctly and that policies are being followed, including Parental Notification within our schools. I will find the Process & Systems that will lead to better outcomes, in all program deliveries. I will ensure that ALL Citizens have access to government resources, to find the answers expected.

Nick Brown - D Candidate

What is your favorite Quote?

Dave Reichert - “America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.” Alexis de Tocqueville

Dan Matthews - “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” – JFK

Michael Baumgartner - “My dream is of a place and a time where America will once again be seen as the last best hope of earth” -Abraham Lincoln

Carmela Conroy - “Faith without works is as lifeless as a body without breath. “

Dave Larson - “Some men see things as they are, and say why. I dream of things that never were, and say why not.” Robert F. Kennedy

Sharon Hanek - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)

Dr. Pam Kohlmeier“Comparison is the thief of joy” by President Theodore Roosevelt

Jaime Herrera Beutler“You cannot be, I know, nor do I wish to see you, an inactive spectator.... We have too many high sounding words, and too few actions that correspond with them.” Abigail Adams

6th leg dist rep pos 2

Jenny Graham - R incumbant

What best qualifies you for this position?

Zig Ziglar was right in his observation that “Fear has two meanings: Forget everything and run or face everything and rise. The choice is yours!” Washington State is going in the wrong direction after decades long one-party governance. Olympia is a tough environment. I bring balance to all issues. I work with anyone for common sense solutions as documented in

the hundreds of successful bi-partisan bills I have sponsored and co-sponsored. Budget request wins include water, fire, transportation, education, and more. I also bring the tenacity to ask tough questions, look at all sides of issues, and to stand strong against bad public policy, when necessary, based on all the information available.

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

We need respectful free speech and honest public conversations about the economy, public safety priorities, accountability, and transparency. I advocate for 6th District constituents to have a seat at the table as the boss over government. To that end, I support the peoples’ initiative process as their right to be heard and included in

decisions that affect them.

Small businesses are struggling in our state which is why my family enjoys sampling and supporting the diverse restaurant options in Spokane. The Swinging Doors is a favorite among treasured memories for fun and work and so is The Davenport Historic. I enjoyed occasionally curling up by the iconic fireplace at the Davenport with a cup of coffee while reading fun books. Who Moved My Cheese, by DR Spencer Johnson, is one of my favorites. The lessons learned in the book are relevant to common sense goals to thrive and prosper in today’s challenging times and opportunities.

What best qualifies you for this position?

My name is Michaela Kelso, and I hope to be your next 6th Legislative District Representative in Olympia. I am running because I know that I will be A Better Representative for You!

Our district and overall region have been hit hard with a multitude of issues over the last five years: A pandemic, skyrocketing housing costs, inflation, computer system turmoil at the VA hospital, multiple devastating fires, and contaminated water supplies. But our current representative only introduced 22 bills or resolutions during that period, and only 3 of those bills and 3 resolutions were enacted.

A representative who

cannot find support among their peers for their work is the definition of ineffective representation. During my 23 and a half years of active duty in the US Army I never had the option of not working with others. Finding ways to come together, supporting the common mission, and making sure that everyone makes it home at the end of the day, those are skills I learned in Iraq, Afghanistan, and at all my duty stations.

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

The most important issue we have to address: To take care of our families, to be able to provide for them, keep them safe, and to live in a healthy environment. We may disagree on how to get there, but the goals remain the same.

I support better and more equitable education funding, strengthening our healthcare systems, and addressing the housing crisis. I promise to listen to those most affected and work with subject matter experts to ensure we select the BEST solutions for everyone.

To learn more about me and what I stand for, please visit my website at kelso4wa.com, and thanks for voting.

Michaela Kelso - D Candidate

Spokane County Commissioner Dist 5

Al French - R Incumbant

What best qualifies you for this position?

Experience. I have had the honor to serve as your County Commissioner for the last 14 years and look forward to continued service to you.

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

Protecting you, your family, your property and your wallet. I have worked side by side with and am endorsed by our

What best qualifies you for this position?

The majority of my life has been dedicated to service. I served 30 years in the military and had the privilege to serve our country and state as a member of the Washington Air National Guard for 27 years. Following my retirement from the Guard, I continued to serve my neighborhood and community by getting involved. I joined my neighborhood council after realizing that if I wanted to make our community better and effect change, I had to engage and be part of the solution. It became evident that bordering neighborhoods shared many of the same issues, many related to public safety and lack of infrastructure, prompting me to co-found a community group to tackle these problems. Over the last three years our group has become a

current County Sheriff John Nowels, our previous Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich, and the Deputy Sheriffs Association that represents the brave men and women that put their lives on the line every day to keep you safe. I have also NOT INCREASED PROPERTY TAXES for the last two years and pledge to not increase them next year either.

Voter Service Centers

• Register to vote or update your registration

• Drop off your ballot

• Get a replacement ballot or envelope

• Use an Accessible Voting Unit

• Get answers to your voting questions

Elections Office- 1033 W Gardner Ave:

Election Day, Tuesday, November 5th, 2024: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

EWU Catalyst Building601 E Riverside Ave:

Election Day, Tuesday, November 5th, 2024: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

6th leg dist rep pos 1

Steven

McCray - D Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

voice advocating for multiple neighborhoods, facilitating collaboration between agencies in the state, county, and city departments as well as elected officials. I recognize that our neighborhood and local issues are often regional, tied to policy and regulation at county and state levels. In order to effectively address the issues of our community we need new and determined leadership in District 5.

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

1. PFAS “forever chemical” water contamination on the West Plains - PFAS in our district’s groundwater has been an issue for more than 7 years following PFAS discovery at Fairchild AFB in 2017 and subsequent remediation the base took to ensure residents received testing and filtration systems.

Molly Marshall - D Candidate

2. Wildfire mitigation - A large portion of District 5 is part of the Wildland Urban Interface and at extreme risk for wildfire.

3. Smart Growth - Spokane County has seen a lot of growth in the past few years. Developments have been built in areas that do not have adequate public services, in areas at extreme risk for wildfire, and high risk drainage areas. This has burdened communities and increased public safety risk.

What best qualifies me for this position is my deep-rooted connection to the Spokane community and my background in social work, which has equipped me with the skills to understand and address the needs of individuals and families. Growing up in Eastern Washington, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges faced by our community, from economic hardships to a lack of affordable housing. My experience caring for my grandmother taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. As someone with a disability, I have a personal understanding of the barriers many face, and I’m committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability or background, has equal opportunities. My lifelong dedication to serving others, coupled with my firsthand knowledge of the issues in our district, positions me to be a strong and effective advocate for the 6th Legislative District.

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

The most important issue that needs to be addressed is the environmental crisis caused by PFAS contamination in West Plains and Spokane County. Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental right, yet many residents are at risk due to the presence of these harmful chemicals in public water supplies and private wells. We need to prioritize allocating resources to help both public utilities and private well owners manage this contamination effectively. Protecting our water resources is essential for the health and well-being of everyone in Spokane County, and this issue requires immediate legislative action.

Spokane superior court judge

Marla Polin Incumbant

What best qualifies you for this position?

Judge where my responsibilities include – dissolutions, child custody, minor guardianships, and child support.

From my experience as both an attorney and as a judicial officer, I have respect for the need for the prompt administration of justice and the opportunity for litigants to be heard. I understand the lasting impact of a judge’s decisions and the importance of careful consideration of the law to ensure that fair and just decisions are reached.

I earned my Juris Doctor at Gonzaga University School of Law in 2005 and opened my own law firm in Spokane a few years later. As an attorney, I practiced both criminal law and complex civil litigation. I was appointed a judge in 2022 and elected in 2023. I have presided over civil and criminal matters, juvenile cases, unlawful detainer actions, reviews of warrants for law enforcement, and sentenced those convicted of crimes. For the last thirteen months, I have acted as the Chief Family Law

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

The continued need for improvement in the timeliness of the administration of justice is critical but this cannot be accomplished by any singular individual. To do my part in addressing these important issues, I became a member of the Spokane Superior Court’s Budget and Planning Committee and the Spokane Volunteer Lawyers Standing Committee.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I have 20 years of experience as a trial lawyer, primarily focused on litigating cases in federal, district, appellate, and Superior Courts. I’ve represented individuals and small business owners, giving me a broad understanding of various areas of law and how they impact citizens. For instance, one case may involve government overreach, property loss, business issues, contract breaches, and family law matters all at once. This experience allows me to collaborate effectively with other legal professionals when needed.

As a business owner managing attorneys and staff, I’ve developed efficient systems to meet client needs and improve productivity. Most of my clients pay on a contingency basis, so wasted time affects me, not them. This has honed my focus on delivering high-quality results efficiently. I believe bringing this perspective to the Superior Court will help reduce unnecessary delays and improve case resolution.

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

Our court must serve the people. Spokane Superior Court’s inefficiency is creating substantial problems for the ‘court users.’ Court users include attorneys, parties, and public officials, such as police officer, or anyone using the Superior Court’s services. This causes additional suffering to the most vulnerable who need justice, which can only be provided through our court system. Our Washington Constitution requires justice without unnecessary delay. Olympia has done a poor job of choosing judges who are focused on this growing problem. This problem costs Spokane County taxpayers. Spokane County voters need to pick our judges instead of Olympia.

Brandon Casey Candidate

Spokane Superior Court Judge pos 11

Tim Fennessy Incumbant

What best qualifies you for this position?

I believe my experience is what best qualifies me for this position. I have been a part of the Spokane legal community since 1983, initially practicing alongside top lawyers throughout the area. Over 33 years as a trial attorney, I represented clients for a fee and for free (doing pro bono work), learning about advocacy, compassion and hard work. Those experiences helped me understand the justice system from the attorney and client perspectives. When I ran for Judge eight years ago, it was because of a conviction that these experiences and my temperament would enable me to provide every litigant with a fair hearing. Since that election, I have presided over hundreds of civil and criminal cases and was elected by my colleagues to serve our bench as the

Presiding Judge for ‘24/‘25, an honor and responsibility.

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

As a judicial candidate in a non-partisan election, the most important issue today is the same as it was when I was first elected in 2016. The Spokane Superior Court bench needs judicial officers committed to strengthen the justice system for our county. As an independent branch of the government, our Judiciary must work with one another and with the Executive and Legislative branches of the county and State. With more than 41 years experience, I remain committed to serving the community from the bench. We have recently seen unprecedented turnover and presently have only one Judge that has been on this bench more than 10 years. I have the institutional knowledge, position, service history and desire necessary to participate in all that must be done to continue to strengthen and improve our justice system in Spokane County. Spokane needs a judiciary committed to upholding the laws that ensure public safety, to following the Constitution and to protecting individual rights. We need a judiciary with the experience to balance those issues and to participate in the administrative duties necessary as well. With the support of every other Superior Court judge in Spokane County, my commitment is evident and I respectfully ask for your Vote.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I have served most of my legal career in a neutral, nonpartisan capacity working in-house for Washington’s courts. I currently serve as senior staff attorney at the Washington State Court of Appeals, where I help the court’s judges decide cases from every superior court east of the Cascades. The Court of Appeals decides cases covering all areas of state law, including criminal, civil, and family.

For three years, I also served parttime in Spokane County Superior Court as a pro tem court commissioner, where I presided over hundreds of cases and numerous bench trials. Prior to my service at the Court of Appeals, I was deputy prosecutor in Chelan County where I was in court almost daily. As a prosecutor, I tried dozens of cases, from theft to homicide and everything in between, and argued numerous cases in the Court of Appeals and Washington’s Supreme Court.

I have been rated “well qualified” or higher by several independent bar associations. I am endorsed by judges at all levels, including on Washington’s Supreme Court. I am the only candidate with bipartisan endorsements from

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

The most pressing issue we face is the growing court delays. Even with stable caseloads, cases are consistently taking longer to resolve. Current judges insist that more money and additional judges are the only solution, yet an efficiency study by the National Center for State Courts last year identified several ways to improve without costly spending. Spokane County needs judges who will take action now, using the resources we already have, instead of those waiting on a solution that may never come

What is your favorite Quote?

Dave Upthegrove - “Something hidden. Go and find it. Go and look behind the ranges. Something lost behind the ranges. Lost and waiting for you. Go!” -Rudyard Kipling, the Explorer

Chris Reykdal - “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” -Eleanor Roosevelt

Pete Serrano - Hearing my kids say “I love you!”

Nick Brown - “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” - Teddy Roosevelt

Matt Hawkins - “Trust, but verify.” Ronald Reagan

Michaela Kelso - “It has been said that for evil men to accomplish their purpose it is only necessary that good men should do nothing.” Dr. Charles F. Aked, 31 Oct 1916.

Al French - “Give me liberty or give me death”

Molly Marshall - “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Albert Einstein

Steven McCray - “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it” - Winston Churchill

Marla Polin - “Right is right even if no one is doing it; wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.” ― Saint Augustine

Brandon Casey - “ I see no reason I should [choose to] be consciously wrong today, because I was unconsciously wrong yesterday.” Robert H. Jackson

Tim Fennessy - Start where you are; use what you have; and do what you can. Arthur Ashe

Patrick Miller - Better is better

our local elected officials.

Andrew Van Winkle Candidate

initiative 2066

• Washingtonians across the state called their legislators to oppose the bill since more than 1.3 million homes and more than a third of manufacturers in the state rely on natural gas. When the legislature passed the bill anyway, I-2066 was introduced to protect natural gas and energy choice and go beyond the restrictions of HB 1589.

• It would cost each individual home or business owner anywhere from $40,000-$70,000 to retrofit their building to electric, and based on the fact that 40% of PSE customers already require assistance on their bills, it’s not likely that most people would be able to afford that unnecessary cost.

• Natural gas is the most reliable

and cheapest option for most residents in the state

• Its impact on the environment is so negligible that just a few years ago, the Washington State Department of Transportation was transitioning all public transit off of diesel and onto clean natural gas.

• In rural parts of the state, natural gas is all residents have in freezing winters when their electric heat pumps fail or stop producing adequate heat.

• Many small businesses and locally owned shops need natural gas to provide the top-tier products they create: breweries, bakeries, pizza shops, construction companies, culturally diverse restaurants, grocery stores, laundromats, and more all rely on the availability of natural gas.

• Over 550,000 signatures were turned in to support I-2066 because it provides a choice for Washingtonians, not a blanket mandate that was instituted by Inslee’s climate mob working to make people’s lives more difficult.

I-2066 would increase energy bills. It would require utility companies to continue investing in outdated technology, and the costs would be passed onto families and businesses.

I-2066 attacks energy efficiency. It would roll back modern protections that make homes and businesses more energy efficient. It jeopardizes energy efficiency programs and would take away important customer rebates, raising costs for Washingtonians.

I-2066 is funded by powerful interest groups. It is part of a nationwide effort by fossil fuel corporations and wellfunded interest groups that want to make as much money as possible while Washington families pay higher energy bills.

I-2066 would stop towns, cities and counties from making decisions that work best for their communities. It’s an overreach designed to prevent local decisionmaking.

VOTE Molly Marshall because responsible leadership matters.

Clean

Make WA Cares Optional

WA Cares is the state’s one-size-fits-all solution to long-term care that requires a 10 year continuous pay-in period in order to receive a $36,500 lifetime benefit. The program became operational after two years of delay even though voters rejected the funding mechanism twice.

The payroll tax takes 0.58% out of every paycheck, or $0.58 on every $100 earned and requires every worker to be optedin to the program, even if it isn’t suitable for them. The average cost of long term care in Washington State is anywhere from $7,500$14,000 per month: that means that WA Cares will only cover about 5 months of long term care for residents at best. The state actuary released a report

that proved WA Cares is in such a bad financial state that it will take millions of dollars over the next 75 years for people to actually see benefits from the program. The program is predatory and doesn’t make sense for:

The working population nearing retirement age who have been forced to pay into the program to see no benefits from it.

Mothers and fathers who take 5 years or more out of the workforce to raise their families. Private caregivers who take time away from their jobs to care for a loved one.

Disabled workers who have to take time away from their jobs for their own health.

I-2124 simply makes WA Cares optional instead of forcing all workers to pay a mandatory payroll tax that they will likely never see benefits from. Each person’s health and wellness is their own business and people should have the authority to select a healthcare program that works for their needs and their bottom line. Give workers a choice by voting “yes” on I-2124.

i-2124 hurts Working Women The Most

I-2124 will cause more people, mostly women, to leave their jobs to provide unpaid care for loved ones with disabilities, or who are sick or aging, by shutting down Washington’s long-term care benefit fund for 3.9 million working Washingtonians.

Women are 73% more likely to permanently leave jobs and five times more likely to cut back to part-time work due to caregiving demands for loved ones who have inadequate long-term care coverage. This impacts their ability to advance in their careers and to support their families.

More than 800,000 Washingtonians, mostly women, are currently unpaid family caregivers. By ending our long-term care insurance program, I-2124 worsens the care crisis that’s causing huge

financial stress for families, and hurting our economy.

i-2124 increases costs, family Debt

I-2124 will send more people into debt when faced with expensive long-term care bills and private insurance premiums they can’t afford.

Middle and low income families are least able to afford private long term care insurance or to pay out of pocket for care, especially because the vast majority of people have less than $5,000 in savings. Only the superrich can afford to pay out of pocket for long-term care.

I-2124 will throw us back into the expensive insurance market, which routinely jacks up premiums by 50%, 100%, even 300% without warning, and delays and denies claims. I-2124 leaves out people with cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and other preexisting conditions - about 57% of us over 50 - because they cannot get private insurance, even if they can afford the expensive premiums. And it hurts women who are discriminated against by private insurance companies, which charge women up to 70% more than men.

Initiative 2109

• The Washington State legislature enacted the additional 7% tax on small businesses and innovators in 2021

• Just this year, the majority party authored a bill this year that would have lowered the threshold for capital gains income taxes to $15,000 instead of only applying to sales of $250,000

• The official start date of the capital gains income tax was pushed back because a Washington State superior court struck down the law as unconstitutional, since our state constitution makes progressive income taxes illegal

• The implications from such a ruling is that the government could theoretically start taxing Washingtonians for purchasing products outside of the state

• Voters have voted down an

• The backdoor income tax applies to sales on capital gains over $250,000 and is a direct attack on innovators coming into the state, successful residents staying in the state, and tech industry workers and small businesses.

No On 2109: Stop Cuts To Education, School Construction, and Childcare

I-2109 eliminates billions of dedicated education dollars–worsening our school funding crisis, reducing access to affordable childcare and early learning, and cutting repairs to our crumbling schools. I-2109 also eliminates funds from pre-K, special education, job training, and community colleges, and school construction projects across the state including 40 here in Eastern Washington.

Over 1,200 families in Spokane County will lose subsidized childcare and pre-K, costing Spokane’s economy $55 million annually. Cuts will force job losses in childcare, education, and more at a time when we need more support for kids and families– not less.

Less Than 1% Of Washingtonians Pay Extraordinary Profits Tax

Retirement funds, real estate, small family owned businesses, and farms are all exempt from the capital gains tax. In fact, less than 1% of Washingtonians will pay this tax; it only applies to stock sale profits over $250,000 per year. 84% of the capital gains tax is paid by wealthy individuals in King County.

Reject Washington’s Upside Down Tax Code

Washington has the nation’s second most upside down tax code, with middle-class families paying a 3xs larger share of their income on state and local taxes than the wealthiest households. Super wealthy Washingtonians should pay what they owe for education and early learning.

Spokane Teachers And Childcare Providers: “Don’t Let A Hedge Fund Millionaire Buy This Election”

I-2109 is sponsored by California hedge fund millionaire Brian Heywood, who will personally benefit from this initiative. Spokane teachers, childcare providers, early learning experts, K-12 leaders, parents, and small business owners are united in urging you to vote No. Don’t give the super wealthy a tax cut that will harm kids, and shift the tax bill to the rest of us.

income tax 7 times before and if the law and the courts honored the true meaning of a capital gains tax, this measure wouldn’t be up for a vote in the first place.

• The capital gains income tax has already forced many successful residents out of the state because they would rather move than have their assets taxed so unfairly.

• The same will happen for small businesses, innovators and successful residents in the state who are the most mobile and can decide to take their tax dollars, innovation, and job creation elsewhere – we must encourage innovation instead of taxing the successful out of moving to the state.

BALLOTS DUE NOVEMBER 5TH

What best qualifies you for this position?

I am committed to representing the people and communities of my district. That means listening and paying attention to what your concerns are, and then working with the majority party in Olympia to bring forward and pass legislation to address those concerns. I will answer to you, not corporations, parties, or special interests.

I have worked as part of small and large businesses in leadership roles and understand how to be quick and responsive, as well as the value of working with others regardless of backgrounds. Currently I serve as a firefighter and station lieutenant, training other volunteers from the community, responding to medical

1

emergencies and structure fires, as well as being one of the first on scene for the Gray and Babb Road wildfires.

I don’t believe in magic wands, I believe in doing the necessary hard work. I know that by listening to your concerns and working together toward solutions, we can build a better future for Eastern Washington.

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

Our communities face many challenges today, but they all have one common root cause. Our communities lack effective representation in Olympia. We all suffer from policies written without an understanding of the needs of Eastern Washingtonians and grow frustrated with representatives that seem more interested in corporate profits and scoring political points than on making our communities stronger. We need to provide better housing options, encourage local businesses, rebuild our town centers, and diversify economic opportunities. We need to promote physical and mental health services to combat the opioid epidemic, and ensure that older members of our communities get the retirement they have earned and deserve. We need growth and recovery plans that value our land and traditions as we build for the future.

REPEAL THE CAPITAL GAINS TAX Don't Punish Innovators & Small Businesses

9th Leg Dist Rep Pos

Patrick Miller - D Candidate

About and for West Plains area seniors

Brought

Grace Gentry

Grace is always an active participant in class. She advocates for her learning and always challenges herself daily.

Skylar Knight

He’s active in ASB, JROTC and Trap Shooting. At the recent memorial for the student who passed away he organized and coordinated with the family a flag folding in the student’s honor.

Thanks you for all you do in our community brought to you by

Nakai Ornelas

Nakai is a role model and inspiration for fellow athletes. He is a top athlete in the league and true leader in our Cross Country program. Nakai leads by example and is not afraid to make bold moves and give his all for the team. Kaylee has a focused and supportive personality, and she is always ready to help out her teammates.

Kaylee Dennler

Kaylee is a role model and inspiration for fellow athletes. She is a top athlete in the league and true leader in our Cross Country program. Kaylee has a focused and supportive personality, and she is always ready to help out her teammates.

For kids in pre-kindergarten through grade 3

Enjoy a slightly spooky storytime with not-so-scary crafts and activities. Non-scary costumes are welcome.

CHENEY LIBRARY

610 First St Wednesday, Oct 23, 3:30–4:30pm

AIRWAY HEIGHTS LIBRARY

1213 S Lundstrom St Wednesday, Oct 30, 3:30–4:30pm

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

By John McCallum Stream contributor

CHENEY

Cross country

Cheney and Medical Lake cross country teams enjoying successful fall

The following are summations of Cheney and Medical Lake high school fall sports action results through Oct. 8.

The Cheney men placed fourth at the Timberlake Farragut Invitational Sept. 7 and had varied results at the 2.5-mile Highlander Invitational course at Shadle Park High School on Sept. 14, and the Bob Firman Invitational at Eagle Island State Park in Idaho, Sept. 21. Both meets run races using different classifications rather than traditional, 5,000-meter varsity-seven formats.

Cheney’s strongest large meet has been the Battle of the 509 at the Spokane Polo Grounds on Oct. 5. The Blackhawks men placed third out of 22 schools in the Black (Team Average Below 18 minutes) Division with 108 points, trailing Kamiakin (76 points) and meet winner Coeur d’Alene (44 points).

The Blackhawks are 4-1 in Greater Spokane League competition, losing only to Mead, 25-30, in the league opener Sept. 25, but posting wins over Gonzaga Prep, Central Valley, University and Shadle Park.

The men are experienced, with four seniors on the varsity seven, led by senior Cameron Frenk, 16th overall at the Battle of the 509 with a new 5,000-meter personal record of 15 minutes, 55.7 seconds, the fastest time on the team so far. Behind him according to times are seniors Holland Hurd and Brayden Martin, sophomore Samuel Hilton, senior Lucas Matos, freshman Andrew Ward and junior Liam Frantzich.

Hurd, Martin, Hilton, Ward and Frantzich all set new PRs at the Battle of the 509.

The Cheney women’s results dovetail the men, although with team finishes a bit lower down the pack. The Blackhawks are 1-4 in GSL competition, but are getting better.

“The girls have been slowly gaining momentum with key runners getting healthy,” head coach Derek Slaughter said. “The JV girls notched their first win against Mead in (women’s coach) Camille (Moseley) and my tenure as coaches.”

At the 509, the women’s varsity seven finished second behind Moses Lake (126-145) in the Red (Team

Average Above 21:30 Minutes) Division. Three of the Blackhawks seven runners finished below that average, led by senior Hannah Ward in 11th with a time of 20:01.80, followed by freshman Abigail Scharosch in 12th in 20:02.80.

Ward and Scharosch lead the Blackhawks women’s times, and are followed by sophomore Isabella Adaszewski, who set a new PR of 20:55.70 at the 509, freshman Kiera Lanier, senior Maggie Boggs, sophomore Claire Silvers and junior Natalie Richards. Like their male teammates, all seven had their fastest times this season at the 509, with Scharosch, Lanier, Silvers and Richards also setting new PRs.

“The Battle for the 509 saw great PRs for the whole team and high team finishes for both boys and girls,” Slaughter said. “The next few weeks will be big in figuring out the postseason aspirations for the team.”

Football

After an 0-2 start with losses to Lewis and Clark (26-0) and Ridgeline (31-24), the Blackhawks finally ended a 13-game losing streak with a convincing 44-6 road win over Ferris on Sept. 19. Tristan Huse accounted for three touchdowns, running for two and passing for one, while quarterback Mason Stinson added a 13-yard TD run.

Cheney dropped its next two

by John McCallum

Photo

Cheney senior Cameron Frenk finished 16th overall at the Battle of the 509 meet Oct. 5 at the Spokane Polo Grounds, helping lead the Blackhawks’ men to a third-place team finish.

games, 42-21 to Gonzaga Prep and 22-16 in overtime at Shadle Park. After two games against upper tier GSL teams — third-place Central Valley, Oct. 11 and second-place Mead, Oct. 18 — the Blackhawks wrap up the regular season against teams who have one win between them, at University (0-5), Oct. 25 and at home Nov. 1 against Mt. Spokane (1-4).

Stinson leads Cheney in passing, completing 45 of 79 throws for 544 yards and 5 TDs. Huse is the team’s leading rusher, 84 carries for 427 yards and three scores while Cam Collins and Tank Best lead the receiving corps — Collins 24 receptions for 220 yards and one TD, Best 16 receptions for 237 yards and 2 TDs.

“We are getting better, just have to find a way to win close games,” head coach John Graham said. “Kids are working hard and buying into what we are preaching.”

Girls soccer

The Blackhawks were still looking for their first league win as of Oct. 8. Cheney, 0-5 GSL, 3-8 overall, was set to travel to Shadle Park, 0-4, 3-8, on Oct. 9 with hopes of notching a win and stopping a four-game losing streak.

The Blackhawks final three games include two against one-win teams, Central Valley (1-4, 1-7-1)

Oct.16 and University (1-4, 5-5-1) in the home finale Oct.21. They finish the regular season Oct. 23 at leagueleading Gonzaga Prep, Oct. 23.

Slowpitch softball

The Blackhawks, 1-10 in the GSL, 1-12 overall, wrapped up the regular season on Oct. 10 on the road at Gonzaga Prep, 1-10, 1-12. Cheney lone win came against winless North Central, 11-0 on Sept. 24.

Volleyball

Cheney was 1-3 in the GSL, 2-6 overall with six matches remaining and many chances to move up in the league standings.

Cheney’s lone league win came Oct. 4 at home against Shadle, 3-1. The Blackhawks dropped the first game 21-25, but closed strong by winning the final three, 25-17, 25-22 and 26-24.

Cheney’s final stretch includes matches against winless Central Valley and University along with co-GSL leader Gonzaga Prep.

MEDICAL LAKE

Cross country

After middle of the pack finishes at the season-opening Timberlake Farragut Invitational Sept. 7 in North Idaho, Medical Lake upped its game with a pair of top-10 finishes at Hermiston, Oregon’s Runner Soul Fest meet Sept. 14. The Cardinal

Lucas Matos holds off a trio of runners down the stretch to the finish of the Men’s Black Division at the Battle of the 509, helping the Blackhawks cement a third-place team finish.

women were meet champions, edging Washington 3A Kamiakin 72-73, while the men placed eighth, despite being without their No. 2 and No. 3 runners Hector Gomez and Garrett Montney.

Kaylee Dennler was fourth with a time of 20:53. She was followed by Mya Gardner (12th), Hannah Luzier (14th), Autumn Trout (20th) and Katelyn Hoffer (38th).

Nakai Ornelas finished 10th overall in 17:16, followed by Loghan Bradley (41st), George Pitts (46th), Aiden Murillo (59th) and Jaxon Stolp (65th).

“Medical Lake and College Place were the only small schools attending,” head coach Gene Blankenship said. “And yet we performed extremely well against the big 3A and 4A Washington schools, and the large Oregon schools.”

Medical Lake competed in its first overnight trip of the year on Sept. 21, traveling to Tillamook, OR for the Mook XC Invite at Alderbrook. The Cardinal women placed 15th out of 22 teams from Washington and Oregon in the Gold Varsity Girls division, led by a ninth-place finish from Dennler, while the men were 17th out of 25 teams in the Gold Varsity Boys division, with Ornelas

placing 16th.

The Cardinals competed at the HOKA 28th John Wayne XC Invitational on Sept. 28 near Tacoma. Dennler’s 22nd-place finish led the Cardinal women to 22nd out of 25 teams in the Gold Varsity division while Ornelas set a season record of 16:27.20 for second in the Silver Varsity division, propelling the Medical Lake men to sixth-place overall out of 41 teams.

Football

The Cardinals are 0-1 in Northeast A League action, 1-4 overall. Medical Lake’s only win came Sept. 20, a 36-16 home win over Northeast 2B Davenport in which senior running back Dakota Phillips scored a pair of touchdowns.

Medical Lake was to travel to Riverside (0-1, 1-4) on Oct. 11, and host Lakeside (0-0, 1-4) in league action.

Volleyball

After a pretty competitive nonleague schedule that saw the Cardinals post a 4-5 record, Medical Lake was slated to open NEA match play on Oct. 10 at Colville, 0-1, 2-6. The Cardinals posted wins over NEA2B St. George’s, GSL 3A North Central, GSL 2A East Valley and NEA2B Chewelah.

Contributed photo by Gene Blankenship

Medical Lake senior Kaylee Dennler’s fourth-place finish led the Cardinals’ women to a meet title at the Runner Soul Fest competition in Hermiston, OR, Sept. 14.

Photo by John McCallum

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Free afterschool snack program, engaging kids’ library events in the West Plains

By Erin Dodge Stream Contributor

Beginning October 1, 2024, “Free After-School Snack” is offered at Cheney Library (610 First St). This program provides nutritious snacks for children ages 1–18 years, Monday–Friday, 3–4pm, except during holidays or other closures.

Spokane County Library District, including Cheney Library, is an equal opportunity provider. The “Free After-School Snack” program is part of the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). This program contributes to the wellness, healthy growth, and development

Get unbiased help with Medicare, including open enrollment one-on-one sessions

By Crystal Miller, Librarian Spokane County Library District

Medicare Open Enrollment starts this month, and in order to change your Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan for 2025, you must do so during open enrollment, which is October 15 to December 7, 2024.

Costs and coverage for Part D plans and the Medicare Advantage plan can change every year, so it is important to review your plans for next year. Any changes that you would like to make need to be submitted during the openenrollment period.

of children and adults in the United States. You can learn more about it at www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp.

Families can enjoy slightly spooky stories with not-so-scary crafts and activities during “Spooktacular Storytime” for families with kids ages 8 and younger. Non-scary costumes are also welcome. You can attend this program at Cheney Library on Wednesday, October 23, at 3:30pm and at Airway Heights Library (1213 S Lundstrom St) on Wednesday, October 30, at 3:30pm.

Each week, “Play & Learn Storytime” programs delight young children and their parents and caregivers with engaging stories, catchy songs, and fun, educational activities. To find a storytime for your child’s age at a library near you, visit scld.org/storytime and use the filter for your library of choice.

Elementary-age students can drop by the library to try new afterschool activities during “Wonder Wednesdays” at Medical Lake Library (321 E Herb St), each week from 3:30 to 4:30pm. Activities could be a new art technique, a building and engineering challenge, a coding

The good news is that two upcoming library sessions offer you up-to-date information about Medicare open enrollment, costs, and coverage. And all sessions are offered free of charge.

For personalized help, sign up for one of the “Medicare Open Enrollment One-on-One Sessions” taking place on Thursday, October 31, between 1pm and 4pm at Cheney Library (610 First St). Call 509.777.1592 to schedule your one-on-one appointment.

During the one-on-one session, a trained volunteer helps you research, assess, and evaluate what options work best for you and your needs. To the get most out of the session, please bring your Medicare card and a list of your current prescriptions to your appointment.

Another option is the online session “Medicare: Getting Started” on Monday, November 18, at 6pm. This session requires registration, and a link to the online session is emailed once

experience, or something the library hasn’t thought of yet!

Families with kids of all ages can imagine and build during “LEGO Free Play” at Airway Heights Library on Saturdays, 10am–6pm; at Cheney Library on Saturdays, 2–4pm; and at Medical Lake Library on Mondays, 3:30–4:30pm, except when closed for holidays.

Did you know a penguin’s beak can be black, red, bright purple, or orange? During “Penguin Exploration: Birds on Ice,” draw a penguin and choose your favorite beak color when you paint it. This program is for kids in grades K–5 and also includes some amazing penguin crafts, fun facts, and a hunt for penguins hidden throughout the library. Drop by from 3:30pm to 4:30pm at Medical Lake Library on Wednesday, November 13; at Cheney Library on Wednesday, November 20; or at Airway Heights Library on Thursday, November 21.

To learn more about these events and sign up for those that require registration, visit scld.org/westkids-events.

Check Out These Autumn Events

FOR ADULTS

• Gardening: Getting a Jump on Spring

• Seed Saving

• The Mysteries of Mushrooms

• World Cooking Online Classes

• Online Author Talks

• Cheney Library Book Club

• Friends of the Cheney Library Book Sale

you’ve signed up.

This session is for anyone new to Medicare and those wanting a refresher. The presenter discusses Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D and goes over the various Medicare benefits and options, including a comparison of Medicare Advantage plans and Medigaps.

To sign up for this Medicare session, go online to scld.org/ medicare-sessions or call the library at 509.893.8400 and ask our library staff to help you sign up.

These Medicare programs are presented at the library as part of the Statewide Health Insurance Benefit Advisor (SHIBA) program, offering free, unbiased information about Medicare programs. SHIBA is a free service that helps you research, assess, and evaluate healthcare options that work best for you and your needs, so you can make informed decisions. SHIBA is sponsored locally by Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW).

• Spokane Is Reading with Debra Magpie Earling

FOR KIDS & FAMILIES

• Spooktacular Storytime

• Weekly Play & Learn Storytimes

• Wonder Wednesdays

• LEGO Free Play

• Penguin Exploration: Birds on Ice

For more information, visit scld.org/events

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