2025 October Stream

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Medical Lake

Terry Cooper

John Higgins

Heath Wilbur

Mayor Incumbent

Mayor Candidate

Mayor Incumbent

Cheney

Elsa Martin

Shelly Hahn

Rebecca Long

Mayor Candidate

City Council POs. 1 Candidate

city council pos. 4 Candidate

2025 ELECTION GUIDE PAGES 7- 11

MEET THE NEW EWU PROVOST PAGE 2

MEDICAL LAKE HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE PAGE 6

SHOES TO PLAY PAGE 19

2

• OCTOBER 2025

The Stream

The Water Front

into terms that college freshmen my teaching and my research. dean of the College of Engineering EWU’s new could understand.

I kind of miss my research, and Computer Science at California State University-Sacramento. He “He inspired me,” Smith said. actually.”

Provost “He was able to manage a very He holds two patents on stayed there for seven years. “That large lecture in a very intimate manufacturing systems and was a huge risk,” Smith said of Lorenzo way. He was very engaging.” has authored or coauthored 62 moving across the country to take a new job. “It was very rewarding.”

After graduation he got a research papers.

Smith brings job working with Ford Motor Smith was happy being a After his time in California, and took night classes professor, but he was asked if he Smith was provost and executive background in Company to earn his master’s degree from would consider being an interim vice president for academic State University. He quit associate dean. Smith considered affairs at Stephen F. Austin State manufacturing Wayne his job to earn a PhD in engineering the offer carefully before accepting University in Texas for a little over three years. mechanics from Michigan State it. and University, then began working During his academic career, “I didn’t want to have any for General Motors.

Smith has worked to promote regrets,” he said. “I did not want engineering learning at all levels. While in One day Smith walked into to look back and think, I should

By Nina Culver

Stream Contributor

Eastern Washington University provost and vice president for academic affairs Lorenzo Smith led a varied career before arriving in Cheney this summer, including working in manufacturing for auto companies and inventing two manufacturing systems before switching to academia.

Smith said he always wanted to go into teaching and working in manufacturing and engineering first was a deliberate choice. “It’s often very useful for professors to draw on their experience,” he said.

the engineering department at Oakland State University in Michigan in the hope of getting an adjunct teaching position. He was told they were actually hiring for an assistant professor position and asked if he wanted to apply. He did and got the job.

“That was an opportunity that was very serendipitous,” he said.

“That was where I grew up as a professor. I loved that job. I loved

have tried that.”

Smith knew he could go back to teaching if he didn’t like the interim position, which ended up becoming permanent, but found that he liked the work. “You have a bird’s eye view of the college,” he said. “You can impact the students in a very meaningful way, more than you can as a professor.”

He then went on to serve as the

His first chosen career has its roots in his rural childhood. He grew up so far outside of town that it was an hour drive to the closest school in Rock Island, Illinois. His family raised birds of every kind, including chickens, geese, ducks and turkeys. That’s where he learned to problem solve and fix things with whatever was on hand, Smith said.

While at his first college, Oakland University, he founded the Chrysler Learning and Innovation Center for Sheet Metal Forming (CLIC-FORM), which brings together industry experts and university faculty in a program that includes paid internships for students.

Smith was interested in leaving the hot weather in Texas and said he also didn’t like that SFA was located in a small town in the middle of nowhere. He started looking for other opportunities and found EWU and liked that it was in a small town that was within easy driving distance of a much larger town.

“I had to solve a lot of problems on my own,” he said.

He earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. It was during his freshman physics class with Professor Donald Ginsberg that Smith decided he wanted to teach engineering. Smith said he was impressed with how Ginsberg was able to put theoretical concepts

Texas, he established SFA’s Center for Applied Research and Rural Innovation (CARRI), which has the goal of advancing economic growth in the rural counties surrounding the university.

During his time in California, he founded the Hornet Leadership Program, which helps engineering students develop leadership and career skills.

“We really wanted to live in a bigger town,” he said. “It’s a great fit. We love Cheney. The landscape is absolutely beautiful.”

Photo by Nina Culver Lorenzo Smith joins Eastern Washington University accepting the reigns as the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. Smith previously served as the Provost at the Stephen F Austin State University in Nacogdoches Texas (a small town 2 and a half hours north east of Houston) and Oakland California before.

When Smith arrived on campus last spring to interview for his position, he was shown around campus by a student. “She was just so genuinely proud of being an Eastern Eagle,” Smith said. “That is what really impressed me.”

OCTOBER 2025 • 3

The Stream

Smith was also impressed

by EWU’s new president, Shari McMahan. She has rebranded EWU as “the region’s polytechnic,” with a focus on utilizing more hands-on learning and making sure graduates have the skills that are in demand by local employers.

“The president is the reason why I’m here,” he said. “She’s taken some bold steps to advance this university.”

Smith said he did a lot of research into EWU before he accepted the job. “I am very pleasantly surprised that what I saw on the website was true, the faculty’s passion for student success,” he said.

Smith has spent his first few months at EWU meeting faculty and staff and getting to know how everything works. He said it’s important to build relationships and the information he’s learning will help him prioritize what needs to be done with the university’s limited budget. “We’ll never have enough resources to do what we want,” he said.

He said that, unsurprisingly, the issues at EWU are mostly the same as issues at every other university – growing enrollment, managing faculty workload and more. “It is surprising how similar universities are,” he said.

“Everything I’m seeing here is nothing new.”

Still, he sees a lot more positivity than he does problems. “I celebrate all the wonderful things about this university ten times more than any challenges,” he said. “We are serving our students well. We are producing outstanding students.”

He’s not limiting his introductory discussions to professors and deans, but is also reaching out to the behind the scenes staff members who make the campus run. “Nothing happens without the staff,” he said. “I am so impressed by what I see here at Eastern.”

Smith said he recently met with the man who does everything from keeping the HVAC systems running to make sure the campus wells are producing clean water.

“He showed me around the underbelly of the university,” Smith said. “If I get a cup of coffee on campus, it doesn’t happen

without him. He is mission critical.

It if goes away, we shut down.”

Smith said he is also impressed by how involved the local industries are in EWU. He said the university’s goal is to train students to contribute to society in an affordable way. “We are doing that,” he said. “We are continuing to grow in that role.”

Smith said he’s already decided that he wants to stay at Eastern Washington University until the end of his career. “This is it for me,” he said. “My wife and I are tired of moving. I want to stay here as Provost as long as I can.”

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

Q: Your first career was in the automotive industry. How did you get involved in that type of work?

A: My first job out of college was with Ford Motor Company.

That got me hooked. I always liked to create things and build things.

Q: What led to you creating the Chrysler Learning and Innovation Center and the Hornet Leadership Program?

A: Part of the role of a regional public university, in particular, is to serve the community in which it is in. They both were an outcome of my desire to do that.

Q: What inventions do you hold patents on?

1. Assembly having a main unit and a mounting unit. Oct. 25, 2007, US 2007/0247800 A1

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

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

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

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

2. Sheet Metal Stretch-BendDraw Simulator Apparatus & Method, Nov. 10, 2011, US2011/0271775 A1 Q: Why do you think supporting STEM education for youth is important?

A: I think all education, whether it is in the STEM fields or not, is important because our country’s prosperity depends on it. What may be even more important than “education” is “equitable access to education” for all youth.

Q: What advice do you have for youth considering a career in STEM? A: They should find a connection between what they are doing in their career and how they are helping people. That connection will be their source of career fulfillment.

* Contract discounts do not apply

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NEWS

• OCTOBER 2025

ML Adopts Legislative Agenda and advances capital projects

By Ben Wick

Stream Publisher

Council Update

Vacancy

Process

On October 16th the City Council voted to change the process for filling the vacant council position to limit the interviews to the top three candidates. The previous process was to interview all applicants at the October 21st council meeting, now the process is to select the top 3 applicants at the October 21st council meeting and then hold the interviews and selection on the November 4th council meeting.

This update aligns the current appointment process with the process used by the City Council during the last appointment process

back in January of 2023.

State Legislative Agenda After working with the cities contract lobbyist Gordon Thomas Honeywell, the council approved their 2026 state legislative agenda focused on two primary goals, continued funding for community policing surrounding eastern state hospital and funding for infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness.

The Community Partnership Program (CPP), modeled after the established initiative at Western State Hospital, plays a vital role at Eastern State Hospital by providing emergency protection, evidence preservation, and incident investigation services. The 2025-27 State Operating Budget allocates $640,000 for related salaries, benefits, supplies, and equipment however funding for this program is not included in DSHS’ maintenance budget and requires legislative approval each fiscal biennium.

The city previously received a $700,000 FEMA Hazard Mitigation Program grant to fund the installation of backup power generators at five essential

community facilities in order to maintain key services including water distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, and communications during an emergency such as natural disasters or severe weather events. However, the lowest bid for installing the generators exceeded the funding available from the grant. The city is requesting $230,000 to offset the final cost of the cities generator project and complete the project.

Silverlake Ave Stormwater The City previously received a grant from FEMA to repave the roads in the Southlake Terrace area to rebuild the area after being damaged by the heavy equipment used to fight and recover from the Gray Road Fire. However during the engineering phase of this project the city has identified that there is a needed stormwater upgrades in this area as well. While the FEMA grant only restores the area back to what it was before the fire, the council authorized $60,000 from the cities street fund balance to include the installation of four stormwater catch basins along Silverlake Ave within the repaving project to avoid having to dig into the road just after

The Stream

repaving it. The work was added as an amendment to the existing contract with Shamrock Paving and preformed ahead of their repaving efforts.

STA Route Updates The Council received an update from STA Interim Planning Director Emily Poole about transit services in Medical Lake and the changes being implemented on September 21st.

“I believe the last route changes in Medical Lake was back in the 1980’s so we are due” said Poole.

Effective Sept 21st STA changed route 62 which serves Medical Lake in order to simplify the route pattern and schedule.

Also apart of STA’s Rual Highway Stop Improvements capital project within STA Moving Forward (STA’s master plan that was associated with the November 2016 local sales and use tax vote that was approved by the voters), includes just over $200,000 in improvements for the bus stops along Highway 902 and Medical Lake. The construction list includes construction of 8 new ADA accessible bus stops as well as

brought to you by

Vincent Gassner

Layla Armes

Julian Taylor

Vincent is an exceptional math student who often finishes his difficult math assignments ahead of the rest of the class. He is always on task, is never disruptive, and is personable to his teachers and peers. Vincent is an active member of Knowledge Bowl where he is able demonstrates his vast knowledge by answering questions over many topics. Hopefully Vincent continues into a math field after high school, although he would most certainly do well in any field he chooses.

Layla is someone who always tries new suggestions, even if they don’t make sense or clash with something she’s learned. She makes you want to root for her because she’s so willing to make things work!

Julian readily fills any role asked of him and without complaint. He consistently does whatever is best for the team.

Thanks you for all you do in our community

The Stream

OCTOBER 2025 • 5

NEWS

of over $32.58 million. The assessed nationally.

Preliminary value in 2024 was a 7.41% increase “We’re actually predicting that over 2023’s total value of $1.07 billion, 2026 sales tax in general will be The stop improvements are still representing an increase in the city’s relatively flat,” Tripp added. in right-of-way scheduled for a Fall AH 2026 total property value of $85.66 million.

2025 or Spring 2026 construction.

When it comes to the various budget over The city has three main areas of departments funding by the Current Mayor Cooper expressed funding, the largest of which is the the desire for improvements to $2.9 million in Current Expense Fund. Based on Expense Fund, Tripp said they would be as conservative as possible connectivity allowing users to more historical information from the state with funding expenses, given state easily connect across the three cities and county, Moses said revenues and national economic outlook red within the West Plains. for the city in 2026 are estimated at replacing the existing bus shelter at the Medical Lake High School.

City Irrigation System Upgrade

After receiving no bids for the request for proposals back in April, city staff reached out to four separate companies to obtain quotes for the project however only one company carried through and provided a quote for the project to the city. The project entails upgrading the irrigation timers used at each of the cities parks. A contract was awarded by the City Council for $19,500 plus tax to Greenscape for the project.

In Brief At the September 16th Council meeting, the City Council amended the 2025 budget to include a $65,000 increase in costs.

On October 7th the Council unanimously approved an updated Hazard Mitigation Plan.

By John McCallum Stream contributor

One thing is clear about the city of Airway Heights 2026 budget — there is a lot of work to be done before the coming year’s finances are balanced.

At the Oct. 6 City Council meeting, City Manager Albert Tripp and Finance Director Tara Moses presented a preliminary budget that is over $2.9 million in the red — meaning expenses exceeding revenues. But while that might be alarming, both Tripp and Moses said the numbers are based on historical data and early department expense estimates rather than hard budgetary figures.

“You can see it’s not a balanced budget,” Moses said. ‘We would be over spending by $2.9 million, which is not acceptable, so we will be scrubbing that over the next couple of weeks.”

Tripp reiterated the numbers for 2026 are “very preliminary.”

“We haven’t had an opportunity to visit with departments and refine them further and get into details about what’s fiscally capable versus what’s not,” Tripp said.

Tripp added staff would be sitting down with department heads over the coming weeks to begin focusing those budget numbers. Part of the early process with council was to review the preliminary numbers while also looking at “themes” staff is seeing for the coming year.

WWW.WESTPLAINSSTREAM.COM

One of those themes revolves around a slowing of growth within the city itself, mainly from new construction in 2025. Airway Heights’ total assessed property value for 2026 is estimated at just over $1.206 billion, reflecting a 1.48% increase from 2025’s $1.188 billion assessed value and equating to an increase of just over $17.6 million.

By comparison, based on information from the Spokane County Assessor’s Office, the rate of increase between 2025 and 2024’s assessed value of almost $1.156 billion was 2.74%, amounting to a dollar increase

just over $15.69 million, with early expenses proposed by department heads topping $18.60 million — equating to what Moses referred to as a $2.91 million “over spend.”

The same scenario applies to the city’s Street Fund, with $467,760 in estimated revenues against $1,390,849 in expenses, something Moses said would be fine tuned in the coming weeks. The final pot of money the city relies on, the Water/Sewer Fund, is estimated to show revenues exceeding expenses by $165,232, with the former forecast at over $11.45 million and the latter calculated at over $11.28 million.

Totaling all three funding sources, Airway Heights is currently looking at estimated overall budget revenues of $27.61 million against currently proposed expenses of almost $31.29 million — a gap of over $3.67 million.

Moses noted they are still working on calculating grants, loans and interfund transfers, items that could affect funding numbers.

When it comes to revenues for the Current Expense Fund, the city relies upon nine different sources, the largest of which is retail sales and use taxes, estimated at $3 million in 2026 — a figure that makes up 32.2% of the estimated $9.365 million the city anticipates in the coming year.

Second in amount are property taxes, estimated $1.775 million — 19% of revenues — while Business and Operation (B&O) taxes such as water and sewer are third at $1.5 million — 16% of revenues.

The property tax levy lid lift passed by voters in 2023 amounts to 14.4% — $1.34 million — in projected 2026 revenue. Overall, property taxes and sales and use taxes account for 65.6% of the city’s Current Expense Fund revenues.

In response to a question from City Council Chair Larry Bowman, Tripp acknowledged the city had seen an increase in the sales and B&O taxes in the first quarter of 2025 into the second quarter. That increase has flattened out since then, following a similar trend seen statewide and

projections.

“We don’t expect a lot of significant growth either in the form of construction or potential permits as it relates to the national level,” he said. One way Tripp said the city might deal with the slowed growth is through its efforts to create more capacity for water connections.

Total projected revenue for the Current Expense Fund in 2026 is almost $9.73 million, with the other 20 departments bringing in the remaining balance of the $15.69 million non-enterprise fund revenues.

On the estimated expense side of the ledger, the top four departments are Law Enforcement at $6.72 million, Community Services at $2.335 million, Fire Control at $2.3 million and Finance at $1.17 million.

Balances in the city’s enterprise funds — funds generating their own revenues through usage fees — should remain pretty healthy and show an end of year increase. The largest of these nine funds, Water/ Sewer Fund, is estimated to have a beginning year balance of $1.863 million and forecast to receive almost $9.24 million in revenues.

Even with a projected $8.37 million in water and sewer expenses, it should leave the fund with an additional $867,569, bringing the projected end of year balance to almost $2.731 million.

One of the challenges this year in balancing the budget is also restoring the city’s reserve fund capacity. Tripp said over the past few years the city has relied on these reserves to cover some expenses, thus drawing those reserves down.

Another challenge is to make sure the budgeting requests by the City Council as well as the community, requests either or both would like to see come to fruition, are also addressed. Tripp said these would be “baked into” the budget as priorities.

The council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Airway Heights 2026 budget at its Oct. 20 meeting. A final budget is required by law to be passed by Dec. 1.

6

• OCTOBER 2025

Medical Lake High School Hall of Fame Inducts newest members

By Nina Culver

Stream contributor

After a six year hiatus, the Medical Lake Hall of Fame has returned, inducting former coaches and athletes in a recent ceremony at Medical Lake High School.

Those welcomed into the Hall of Fame are former head football coach John Giannandrea (1980-2003), head boys tennis coach Leroy Lemaster (1965, 1992-2008, 2011-12), former basketball player Randy Moffatt (class of 1995) and the boys tennis teams from 2004 and 2005.

All of the inductees made an indelible mark on Medical Lake High School and the community, said former star football player Alexis Alexander, who led the evening. Of particular note were the boys tennis teams, which won back-to-back Washington State championships.

“These athletes achieved remarkable success,” Alexander said.

NEWS

All-League honors and tossed in a game-winning 25-foot buzzer beater to help his team win second in the Washington State Championships in 1995.

Moffatt went on to play for Spokane Community College before he was injured again. He coached the Medical Lake freshman basketball team from 1997 to 1999 and has since coached numerous AAU basketball teams.

Moffatt said his time on the team feels like just yesterday. “Basketball has been my life,” he said. “There’s a lot of people who aren’t here who helped me a lot. That time was a special time.”

He said he’s grateful for the opportunities he was given. “I was just a kid who was competitive and driven,” he said. “I wish we could have done a hair better, but we did good.”

Moffatt said that as a coach, he wants to see other people succeed and do better than he did. “Giving back is a big part of where I’m at,” he said.

Alexander referred to Giannandrea, known affectionately as Coach G, as a father figure and the best motivator he’s ever met. “He absolutely got the best out of me,” Alexander said.

Giannandrea was born and raised in Pennsylvania and played

football at McKeesport High and the University of Cincinnati. He coached in Pennsylvania before moving to Boise, Idaho, where he coached football, baseball and track. He then spent a few years in Carson City, Nevada, before coming to Medical Lake in 1980.

Giannandrea said he recalls flying into town to interview for the coaching position in Medical Lake.

By the time he flew back to Colorado and drove him, the school had already called to offer him the job.

Giannandrea, who had six children, joked that he was attracted to the job because it offered health insurance for his large family.

He thanked the coaches and teachers who welcomed and supported his children. He also thanked his players. “They were good kids,” he said.

Giannandrea’s list of achievements are long. He was inducted into the Washington State Coaching Hall of Fame in 2005. His team took second place in the state championship game in 1991 and third place in 1997. He racked up league championships in 1991, 1993, 1997, 1998 and 2003. He was also named League Coach of the Year in 1991, 1993, 1997, 1998 and 2003.

“I stayed here a long time,” Giannandrea said. “I don’t know why they didn’t kick me out sooner.”

Former tennis player Tanner Teresky spoke on behalf of the teams. He recalls being coached by Lemaster and attending Lemaster’s community tennis clinics as a young child. “It’s an honor to be a part of the Hall of Fame,” he said. “I had some very good tennis players on the team around me that elevated my game.”

During his time in Medical Lake, Lemaster built a community, Alexander said. In addition to coaching, he ran youth camps through the local Parks and Recreation department for more than 30 years. “There are no words that can summarize the impact he’s had on the community,” Alexander said.

Lemaster received a standing ovation while we walked to stage slowly using a cane. “I’m honored to be standing here tonight,” he said.

“Being inducted into the Medical Lake Hall of Fame means a great deal to me.”

He grew up in Twisp and, after spending two years in the Navy, played football and basketball at Wenatchee Valley Junior College.

He moved to Medical Lake with his family in 1961 when he took a job at Lakeland Village, where he worked for decades.

Lemaster said he’s proud that his former players grew to become good people and good citizens. “My coaching philosophy was simple,” he said. “There’s life after tennis.

While you’re on the court, you give it everything. As I look around the room tonight, it’s clear that philosophy worked.”

In addition to his teams winning the state championship in 2004 and 2005, his teamers were also second place state finalists in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Lemaster’s teams hold 14 league titles. He was named the Northwest Sectional Coach of the Year in 2007 by the National Federation of State High School Coaches Association.

“Thank you to the families who trusted me with your kids,” he said. “Thank you to Medical Lake for giving me a place to do what I loved.”

Teresky spoke highly of Lemaster.

“He was a really great coach,” he said. “He was always a great recruiter. Thank you for chasing me down the hallway my freshman year and forcing me to sign up for tennis.”

He said he remembers fondly playing card games with students on the bus and buying them milkshakes when they scored an ace. He was also known for giving every player a Tootsie Roll after each match. “I wouldn’t trade that time,” he said.

“Coaching tennis allowed me to be a part of something bigger than myself. I’ll carry those memories with me forever.”

He also thanked the other tennis coaches that helped the teams win their state championship. “Thank you for everything,” he said.

“Thanks for all the memories and all the milkshakes.”

Randy Moffatt began playing varsity basketball his sophomore year, but was injured. He returned his junior year as a guard, averaging 15 points per game. During his senior year he earned 1st Team

The Stream

Photo by Nina Culver Former Head Football Coach John Giannandrea was one of the four newest members of the Medical Lake High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Giannandrea was the coach from 1980 through 2003.

Former Medical Lake tennis player Josh Greene, who Lemaster recruited off the soccer field, praised Lemaster. “You were a great tennis coach, but you were a greater coach of life,” Greene said.

Special Election G u i d e 2025 OCTOBER 2025 • 7

The Stream

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 personally!

1. What is your favorite community event?

2. What is your favorite place to volunteer?

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

For those who haven’t registered to vote or accidently lose your ballot, you can register all the way 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 4th

8

• OCTOBER 2025

The Stream

City of airway heights council pos. 1 Where is your favorite community event?

Casandra Quesnell

Elsa Martin - tie between Mayfest and Cheney Farmers Market Shelly Hahn - CheneyFest Rebecca Long - Cheney Farmers Market Elizabeth Winer - Cheney Mayfest & Airway Heights Days Terri Cooper - All the Medical Lake Outdoor Festivals John Higgins - Founder’s Day Celebration Heath Wilbur - farmer’s market Ted Olson - Founders Day Gordon Hester - Airway Heights Days, Hoopfest

What best qualifies you for this position?

Hey Casandra Quesnell here. Mom of 4 autistic children, girl scout troop leader. The biggest issue in Airway I believe is automobile infrastructure.

The demand on first responders between vehicle vs vehicle and vehicle versus pedestrian is crazy. The fact that I am a concerned citizen myself,

my whole heart is in Airway. It is my home, it is where my kids will call home and hopefully they too will feel the same way.

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

I am rooted and want to make a difference for the better. There is no one event that tops the rest but I would say Airway Heights days is absolutely a family favorite. Favorite restuarant has to be La Presa, great food, amazing customer service very personable. I am running to help the citizens have a voice.

RUNNING UNOPPOSED

Ballot Drop Off Locations

Airway Heights Library 1213 S Lundstrom st Airway Heights, WA Cheney Library 610 First St Cheney, WA Medical Lake Library 321 E Herb St Medical Lake, WA

City of Cheney Mayor What best qualifies you for this position?

I began my career as an engineer working in the refining, semi-conductor, and municipal sectors and moved toward project management, leading teams, increasing efficiency, and supporting healthy office culture.

After having kids, I shifted careers and worked for a local church where my responsibilities included coordinating volunteers and organizing community events.

These unique roles have prepared me for serving our city responsibly, effectively, and intentionally. I believe in proactive planning versus reactive responses and will lead with

integrity, transparency, and consideration.

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

While my focus includes infrastructure updates and strategic growth, my main priority is improved communication.

Small changes, like improving the accessibility and utility of the City of Cheney website, utilizing social media, and communicating updates clearly and completely will keep our community informed.

Additionally, the people who live, work, learn, and play in our community know its needs best, and their voices should shape the policies and priorities of our city.

Finally, Cheney needs a clear, long-term vision

Elsa Martin Candidate

to guide decisions for long-term planning and collaboration. As mayor, I hope to build trust in our community so that together the citizens, city employees, and leaders will work to develop a strong, responsive government that serves everyone because the voice of each person in Cheney matters.

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

OCTOBER 2025 • 9

The Stream

City of Cheney COuncil pos. 1 Shelly Hahn Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

I’ve been proud to call Cheney home for more than 20 years. My husband and I raised our kids here, and now one of them is attending EWU. Cheney has been a wonderful place to raise a family, and over the years, I’ve seen both the strengths of our community and the challenges we face. I’m running for City Council

because I want to give back.

Professionally, I manage a nonprofit social services organization. In this role, I focus on collaboration and partnerships, which has taught me how to listen, work together, and find practical solutions to complex problems. I believe these skills could be valuable in working with the community and fellow council members.

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

Some of the key issues I’m hearing about in Cheney are water, housing, supporting local businesses, and maintaining our infrastructure.

Reliable

water, affordable housing, and a thriving local economy help keep Cheney strong, while well-maintained streets, parks, and facilities make our town safe and welcoming. These are top of mind for me, but I know there are many other concerns, and I look forward to learning from the experiences of our neighbors.

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

City of Cheney COuncil pos. 4 What best qualifies you for this position?

I bring a blend of professional leadership, technology expertise, civic advocacy, and deep community roots to my candidacy. I’m a proud Eagle, having earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer science from Eastern Washington University. I’ve worked in the tech industry for 20 years, now serving as Director of Software Engineering leading global teams and solving complex challenges, skills I will bring to City Council.

I founded Future Ada, a nonprofit advancing women and minorities in STEAM, and at EWU I’ve given back as a mentor, guest speaker, and for seven years alternating as Chair or Vice

Chair of the Computer Science & Cybersecurity Professional Advisory Board. My work on education and technology boards connects me with both student and workforce needs.

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

Council must address affordable housing and city infrastructure, especially water. With the Comprehensive Growth Plan due in 2026, Cheney has a critical opportunity to set policies ensuring attainable housing, strengthen services, protect resources, and guide responsible development. I will work to strengthen City support for commissions, advocate for hiring a grant writer, and partner with Parks & Rec to make the pool more affordable for families.

Rebecca Long Candidate

I started the Cheney, Coffee, & Civics newsletter as an engaged community member, but on Council I’ll be able to take even more steps to improve communication between the City and the rest of our community. I am committed to bringing transparency, accountability, and energy to Council so Cheney can grow in a way that is affordable, sustainable, and resilient.

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

cheney school district dir. 2 Elizabeth Winer

What best qualifies you for this position?

As a parent, teacher, and board member, I bring a unique perspective to Cheney Public Schools. With two children in the district and 14 years as a high school science teacher holding a master’s in education, I understand the daily challenges students and educators face.

With two years of experience, I have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a school board director. I listen to and learn from parents, teachers, students, and community members to make thoughtful and collaborative decisions.

I am honored to have the endorsements of the Washington Education Association (certified staff), Professional School Employees of Washington (classified staff), and fellow board directors Henry Brown, Mitch Swenson, and Bill Hanson.

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

My goal is to ensure Cheney schools are safe, welcoming, and supportive environments where every student can thrive. Recognizing that each student learns differently, I support expanding career technical education and alternative learning options to engage all learners and help them discover their passions.

Our district has three distinct, growing communities. The Fall 2004 bond projects are helping address that growth by building a new elementary school, buying land north of I-90 for a future secondary school, and updating our existing facilities. But I also think we need to build our students’ sense of belonging. When students feel like they belong, their academic engagement and achievement improves as well as their social and emotional well-being. This fosters a more inclusive and respectful school environment centered on preparing students for post-secondary success.

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

10

• OCTOBER 2025

The Stream

City of medical lake mayor Where is your favorite place to volunteer?

Terri Cooper Incumbant

Elsa Martin - coaching my kids’ Parks & Rec teams Shelly Hahn - volunteering at our schools when my kids were younger Rebecca Long - Eastern Washington University Elizabeth Winer - Snowdon Elementary

What best qualifies you for this position?

Hello, I am Terri Cooper, Medical Lake Mayor, seeking re-election. I am in the fourth year of my first term and what an unexpected journey; I was surprised to discover early on just how much I enjoy it! No single thing qualifies me for this position, but rather a lifetime of combined knowledge, experience, education, and community engagement that prepared me for such a time as this.

Experience and Education: I am a retired court administrator and court commissioner with 25 years of municipal government experience. I’ve earned an undergrad degree in public administration and hold a Master of Business degree.

Decisive Leadership Style: I am a decisive person of action by nature, for example, when threats arose like that of the Gray Rd Fire or when the City of Spokane tried to burden us with their homeless population, I immediately knew what to do and how to successfully navigate those challenges.

Entrepreneurial: When I see a need I look for solutions.

I’m a founding member of Re*Imagine Medical Lake, a community revitalization effort, and the Spokane Region Long Term Recovery Group, formed in response to the Gray Road fire. I have decades of foreign and local non-profit

Terri Cooper - Playing the role of Mrs. Claus during the annual Winter Festival John Higgins - Medical Lake School District softball fields Heath Wilbur - with local businesses in any way I can Ted Olson - Our church; Medical Lake Community Church Gordon Hester - Eastern Washington University Alumni Foundation or the Community Colleges of Spokane Foundation

What best qualifies you for this position?

My 12 years of holding this office from 2005 through 2017 **THANKS COMMUNITY for the previous 12 years of support!

Union President Eastern State Hospital; Union, State-wide Executive Board Vice chairman for Spokane Transit Authority Human Resources for a mental health facility Over 50 years of dealing with the public or people in general What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Fiscal responsibility - I am concerned about not having the ability to

John Higgins Candidate

work. I believe strongly in servant leadership.

I have deep-rooted devotion to Medical Lake and to the Air Force and it is my aim to love my community through service. It was the military that brought us here and here is where we’ve stayed. It is my pleasure to serve you!

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

We have more than a few priorities. Most importantly we need to finish the deferred upgrades to our Class A Wastewater Treatment Plant.

By May of 2026 we must complete the transfer of ownership of Waterfront Park to the City of Medical Lake, and within the next year we must secure statutory funding for police services provided to Eastern State Hospital.

City of Medical lake council pos. 2 Ted Olson Incumbant

maintain current and future growth eg: water, sewer, streets, and public safety.

We have a large senior population in Medical Lake and their ability to pay growing taxes, due to growth, is also a big concern.

What best qualifies you for this position?

My experience on the City Council, and involvement in the community for over 3 decades.

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

The continuing business of our great city of Medical Lake.

RUNNING UNOPPOSED

OCTOBER 2025 • 11

The Stream

City of Medical l ake council pos. 1 Heath Wilbur Candidate

What best qualifies you for this position?

I have called Medical Lake home for the past eight years, and during that time I’ve seen both the challenges of stagnation and the promise of thoughtful growth.

Mayor Cooper encouraged me to run for Position 1 so I could bring my experience from the military and my studies in Urban Planning at Eastern Washington University to serve our community. I believe this background gives me a practical perspective on how to balance progress with the needs of our residents.

Community connections matter deeply to me. I look forward each season to the farmer’s market, which brings neighbors together and highlights our local vendors. I enjoy volunteering

with local businesses in any way I can, whether moving inventory or helping with repairs. And my favorite local spot, Roam Coffee House, has become a true hub for the community—a welcoming place where neighbors, friends, and even our law enforcement gather.

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

One of the most important issues we face is managing growth in a way that strengthens our community. We need to support small, local businesses, generate sustainable and ethical tax revenue, and revitalize our downtown without allowing large corporate interests to take control. I also want to invest in our youth through part-time and summer programs that teach real-world skills and create meaningful opportunities right here in Medical Lake.

I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside residents to make Medical Lake a place where small businesses thrive, young people are supported, and our community continues to grow responsibly.

PAID FOR BY TERRI COOPER FOR MAYOR CAMPAIGN PO BOX 814 - MEDICAL LAKE, WA 99022 TerriCooperForMayor.com TerriCooperForMayor@gmail.com

OPPONENT DID NOT RESPOND

Fire Dist no. 10 comissioner no 1 for Fire District 10 for ten years. I am familiar with fire department Incumbant operations as a firefighter, and familiar with strategic planning and financial management serving as a commissioner.

Gordon Hester

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

What best qualifies you for this position?

I have served on the Board of Fire Commissioners for the last five years, currently serving as Board Chair. Prior to that I served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT

We need to manage increasing fire apparatus costs and encouraging strong co-worker relationships with our career firefighters and volunteers. Fire District 10 is currently in great shape financially and we need to continue to be mindful of how our taxpayer dollars are spent.

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• OCTOBER 2025

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is

Cheney started 2025 with wins over

According to the Washington State Cross Country Coaches Association Oct. 6 poll, the Blackhawk boys were ranked 10th, with the girls, while not ranked, mentioned along with Central Kitsap, Shorewood and Stanwood in the 3A “Others” category.

place in the GSL 3A/4A standings at 2-4, 5-6-2 overall, 6 points. Hoping to improve on last year’s 3-6, eighthplace league finish, Cheney has remaining games against Gonzaga Prep (Oct. 15) and Ferris (Oct. 20), both trailing the Blackhawks in the standings before finishing against GSL leader Mt. Spokane, 5-0, 6-1-3, on the road on Oct. 22.

seventh overall in the GSL to lead the Lewis and Clark, Ridgeline and and 3A University (Oct. 23) before Cheney and girls, with fellow sophomore Abigail Ferris before suffering a 37-14 home wrapping up GSL action at home Scharosch 11th, followed by junior loss to unbeaten GSL leader Gonzaga against 3A leader Mt. Spokane (Oct. Medical Isabella Adaszewski and sophomore Prep on Sept. 26.

28).

Genevieve Mazurik 22nd and Since then, Cheney has wins over Cheney is looking to improve Lake cross 23rd and junior Clara Silvers 36th. Shadle Park and Central Valley by on last year’s 1-8 league mark. It’s Karina Dixon (39th) and a combined score of 98-7. The 3A already bettered its 4-12 record from country teams Sophomore junior Reese Randles (47th) round Blackhawks faced a big test on Oct. 2024. out the Cheney top seven.

17, traveling to 4A Mead (5-1) in a MEDICAL LAKE enjoying “Two more GSL races in the next battle of GSL second place teams.

Cross country weeks will tell a lot about the Girls soccer successful fall couple team,” Slaughter said.

The Cardinals boys and girls The Blackhawks were in seventh Sophomore

By John McCallum Stream contributor

CHENEY Cross country Both Blackhawks squads are off to solid starts in 2025. Last year the boys won the District 6 title on their way to a third-place finish at 3A state while the girls were third in District 6 competition and 12th overall in state at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco.

After two meets through Oct. 14, the boys were 3-1 in Greater Spokane League competition, just back of unbeaten league leader Mt. Spokane and unbeaten 4A Mead. They split their first meet on Sept. 27 at Mt. Spokane, losing to the host Wildcats while knocking off Ridgeline, and swept an Oct. 1 meet with wins over Central Valley and Shadle Park.

Kiera

Lanier

Football For the Blackhawks, the phrase “What a difference a year makes” has new meaning. At this point in the 2024 season, Cheney was 1-5 while in 2023 the team was 0-6 on its way to a winless season.

Flash forward to Oct. 14, 2025, and the Blackhawks were off to a 5-1 start, their best beginning to a season since the 6-0 start in 2018 as members of the former Great Northern League.

Slow pitch softball Cheney wrapped up its season with an 11th-place GSL finish, posting a 3-10 league mark, 4-12 overall, but missing the postseason.

Volleyball Cheney is ninth in the GSL at 1-5, 6-6 overall. The Blackhawks have three matches remaining, two on the

“The boys are fighting to stay near the top of the GSL and earn another spot at the state meet as a team,” head coach Derek Slaughter said. “They have all the pieces, just need to race well on the same day.”

teams are enjoying success as the 2025 season passes its halfway point. Over two Northeast A League meets, both Medical Lake teams are undefeated, owning wins over Colville and Lakeside.

If those results held true in their final league competition Oct. 15 at home against Riverside, the Cardinals stand to win the NEA title.

For Medical Lake head coach Gene Blankenship, the win over Lakeside was particularly satisfying, referring to the Eagles “the school that has been our nemesis in the past.”

“And we will be prepared for the District Championships on the (October) 25th,” Blankenship said of a possible 3-0 record. “The top two teams from districts will qualify for the Regional Championships against District 5 to be run on November 1st.”

Besides the league results, both Medical Lake teams won the Silver Division at the Mook Invitational at Alderbrook Golf Course in Alderbrook, Ore. Sept. 25.

While Colville’s Malik Ortiz leads the boys in NEA standings, Medical Lake owns the next four slots, and six of the top-10 times this season. In order 2-5 are junior Aiden Murillo, sophomores Steven Shotts and Mercury Bergquist and senior Loghan Bradley, with juniors George Pitts seventh and Ryzick Iglesias ninth, while junior Erik Moon is just outside the top-10 at 12th.

The girls were 2-2, fourth in the GSL, and earned their first wins Oct. 1 against CV and Shadle.

“The girls are still working to run healthy and fully as a team,” Slaughter said. “They are getting closer to being that full team we know we can be.”

Currently, sophomores Andrew Ward and Carter Ward are ranked eighth and ninth in the overall GSL boys standings respectively. Seniors Ethan Martin and Liam Frantzich are 13th and 14th while senior Lucas Curley is 21st. Freshman Miles Moseley is 32nd and senior Dallin Davis is 37th to round out the topseven.

road against GSL 4A Mead (Oct. 16)

Photo courtesy MLHS cross country Cardinals senior Kaylee Dennler (center) is looking to not only better her fourthplace finish from 2024 1A state competition but also lead her second-ranked girls team to a better finish this year in Pasco.

Defending NEA and District 5 champion Kaylee Dennler is ranked first among the girls league times, turning in a new personal record of 18 minutes, 39.70 seconds for second at the Mook Invite. The Cardinal See SPORTS SUPPLY, Page 18

16

• OCTOBER 2025

Dear Editor,

We can do BETTER. My oldest is a Senior this year at Cheney High School. As a parent, this is heavy, especially if this is your first time navigating through these waters. I spent the summer months protective of our family time – not knowing what next summer would look like after her graduation. I viewed it as potentially our last opportunity to be together as a family and thus asked all my children to minimize their participation in their chosen sports over the summer. With school on the horizon, I was excitedly preparing for all that encompassed having a Senior – the pictures, the “Senior Sunday” throwbacks on social media, and more than anything - watching her play the sports that she grew up loving for the last time. To proudly watch her, after starting on varsity last year as a Junior, assist in leading her volleyball team into a new era under the promising tutelage of their newly appointed coach. Unfortunately, on the second day of what was supposed to be a three-day tryout, the new coach pulled her aside and informed her that she would be placed on the “C” team, stating, “I wish I could have gotten to know you more over the summer, but

Dear Editor,

As a proud business owner of Medical Lake, I am writing to express my strong support for Mayor Terri Cooper in her bid for re-election. In a time when leadership, transparency, and vision are more important than ever, Mayor Cooper has consistently delivered — with optimism, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to our city’s future.

From day one, Mayor Cooper has proven herself to be a forwardthinking leader, unafraid to make bold, strategic decisions that prioritize long-term growth over short-term convenience.

Under her leadership, Medical Lake has made impressive strides — from securing $6.2 million in infrastructure grants to revitalizing our downtown streetscape and investing in sidewalks, lighting, trees and flowers. These aren’t just aesthetic improvements; they are

OPINION

The Stream

we ran out of time”. This decision not only effectively penalized my daughter for not participating in summer activities (which is contrary to WIAA rules regarding summer athletic participation 17.10.0), but it was something that I had asked her to do for our family!

Additionally, the fact that she was not allowed to complete the full tryout suggests a predetermined decision influenced by summer favoritism. After bringing my concerns to the athletic director, he told my daughter she could still have a spot on the “C” team, advising her to “crush it” and let the new coach see how skilled she is, and work her way back up to varsity. However, at this point my daughter felt humiliated and rejected with no desire to rejoin the team. This is what brings me to the broader issue. We need to do better for our Senior student athletes at Cheney High School. Growing up, we teach our kids to play sports because of all the benefits that come from it – physical health yes, but also focus, discipline, teamwork, leadership, confidence, and a sense of belonging, to name a few.

Their Senior year should be a time for them to represent their school ONE LAST TIME, to showcase their hard work, to mentor underclassmen, to be recognized at “Senior Night” in front of their

peers and families, to allow them to get to play a game they have loved ONE LAST TIME, to give their families the chance to watch their children play ONE LAST TIME, and ultimately, to finish well, as a part of the program’s legacy that they helped to build.

Instead, we rob them of their crowning moments. We demote them to a “C” team solely because they are a Senior and did not meet the specific criteria set by the current varsity coach. This action undermines all the values that we have taught our children, the values that sports were supposed to cultivate in them. Instead of being honored, we demoralize them, sending a message that their loyalty and commitment to their team and their sport is not good enough. They are left feeling undervalued, replaceable, forgotten, and unappreciated as coaches focus their attention on the emerging upcoming players instead. What message are we truly conveying? That their contributions will be dismissed rather than celebrated at the culmination of their high school sports journey. There are viable options that can be implemented to accommodate each year’s Senior class. Rather than limiting options to placement on the “C” team, which the athletes often perceive as the lowest tier and can feel

embarrassed to join, alternative approaches can be considered that recognize their years of dedication.

Options such as an “All Senior” team or incorporating ALL the seniors into the

the building blocks of a vibrant, welcoming community.

Lake’s future. She sees our city not just as it is, but as it could be: a thriving recreational destination, a home for small businesses, and a place where families can plant roots and prosper. Her push for the vacant property ordinance has already begun transforming our commercial core, bringing in new businesses and breathing life back into unused spaces.

vision.

Despite the challenges posed by the Gray fire, Mayor Cooper stood firm in the face of crisis and steered our city toward recovery with steady hands and a compassionate heart. Her ability to navigate emergency response while keeping an eye on future development demonstrates the kind of leadership Medical Lake needs — and deserves.

Mayor Cooper’s financial stewardship speaks for itself.

The city finished last year with a $500,000 budget surplus, even while launching major revitalization efforts and negotiating significant cost savings in public safety — cutting law enforcement costs without compromising service. That is not just responsible budgeting; it is smart, transparent governance.

Beyond the balance sheets, Mayor Cooper has laid a clear and optimistic vision for Medical

Her work to retain and recruit high-quality staff by improving wages and benefits ensures that our city will be served by professionals who care and are committed to staying. She is building a team — and a town — that people want to be part of.

Unlike her opponent, who looks backward and sees risk in every opportunity, Mayor Cooper looks forward and sees potential. She doesn't shy away from tough decisions or big dreams — she embraces them.

She listens, she acts, and above all, she leads with integrity and

varsity roster, even if it means reduced playing time for some of them. As Seniors, coming up in their various programs, they are well aware of their standing within the team. More often than not, they will prioritize the best interests of the TEAM because this is the mindset that we have fostered in them through their experiences in team sports! There is no “I” in TEAM. While I do not expect immediate changes for my daughter this fall, I do expect that the current system evolves to better support and recognize our Senior student athletes. For the four additional children I have progressing through the district, but ultimately, for ALL of the children in the Cheney School District. Our Seniors deserve better and the right to conclude their high school sports experience with dignity and respect. Lastly, may this be a reminder to us all, that even when we don’t understand the reason why somethings happen, that God has a plan and it is good. Also, basketball season is right around the corner!

Jillian Zeisler

Let’s not turn back the clock.

Let’s continue building on the momentum we’ve created under Mayor Cooper’s leadership.

I urge my fellow citizens to cast their vote for Mayor Terri Cooper — a proven leader with the heart, courage, and vision to lead Medical Lake into a brighter future.

Gerri Johnson About the Opinion Page The Stream opinion page is intended to be a community forum for discussing local issues. Please interact with us by sending a letter to the editor or West Plains Voices guest column for consideration.

Letters to the editor of no more than 350 words or guest columns of about 700 words should be e-mailed to editor@westplainsstream.com or mailed to P.O. Box 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019. A full name and telephone number must be included for purposes of verification.

Views expressed in signed columns or letters do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or its staff. Editorials, which appear under the heading "Stream Editorial," represent the voice of The Stream and are written by Publisher Ben Wick.

The Stream

Stay Sharp Kit activities support people with memory loss, promote mulitgenerational connection

By Stacey Goddard, librarian Spokane County Library District

The library has some pretty special things in its collection: Stay Sharp Kits. With 30 different themes, these kits are great for anyone who wants to improve their short-term memory and overall mental speed. In fact, Stay Sharp Kits are designed to be used with individuals who are experiencing memory loss or other cognitive issues related to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory disorders.

Each kit is a collection of engaging items with a specific theme, such as gardening, travel, baseball, movies, cats, dogs, and so on. Each kit includes a book and three or four activities, such as puzzles and card games, that spark conversation and stimulate

Online, interactive library sessions bring entertainment, learning to you

By Erin Dodge Stream Guest Correspondent

Your local library has interactive, online programs that you can experience from home.

See how to cook a new recipe, learn ways to support those with memory loss this holiday season, and view live talks with bestselling authors.

The SCLD Online Authors Series offers two to four live, online author talks each month. When you sign up at scld.org/authorsseries, you can also submit your questions to the author. Check out these upcoming talks.

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai discusses her memoir “Finding My Way” on Wednesday, October 22, at 4pm.

Thrust onto the public stage at fifteen years old after the Taliban’s brutal attack on her life, Malala Yousafzai quickly became

LIBRARY brain activity.

These books and activities encourage multi-generational participation and are fun for families, friends, and neighbors to complete together. You can browse all 30 kits at scld.org/stay-sharp-kits.

To give you an idea of what you can find in a kit, I’ll share the contents of the “Let’s move!” kit.

The first item is the book “Chair Yoga for Seniors,” by Lynn Lehmkuhl.

Lehmkuhl is a registered yoga teacher and begins her book with examples of real individuals who have taken and benefited from her chair yoga classes. Along with simple and clear instructions, this book has photographs demonstrating each stretch, pose, and movement.

Several items in the kit focus on hands-on activities. “Dimpl Pops” is a pop board and a strangely satisfying activity! Younger kids as well as adults enjoy popping specific colors or making a shape like a square on the pop board. The next item is fun to play with and twist around! “Stretchy Strings” are manipulative items that provide sensory therapy and are shown to an international icon known for bravery and resilience. Malala shares how she navigated life as someone whose darkest moments threatened to define her while she was seeking the freedom to find out who she truly was.

Coined as the “queen of British historical fiction,” Philippa Gregory returns to the infamous Tudor Court with a tale that is both timely and timeless in her latest novel “Boleyn Traitor.” On Wednesday, October 29, at 11am, Philippa talks about this riveting tale of loyalty and betrayal, ambition and love.

Award-Winning Journalist Joseph Lee discusses his stirring memoir “Nothing More of This Land: Community, Power, and the Search for Indigenous Identity” on Wednesday, November 5, at 11am. In this memoir, Joseph explores Indigenous identity in proximity to land that serves as an iconic vacationing spot for the wealthy—the “island paradise” that is Martha’s Vineyard.

On Thursday, November 13, at 4pm, acclaimed writer Amanda Peters discusses her instant bestselling novel “The Berry

OCTOBER 2025 • 17 SPOK ANE COUNT Y LIBR ARY DISTRICT

reduce anxiety, provide comfort, and calm fidgety hands. “Playable Art Balls” are 20 colorful wooden balls that are all interconnected and can be turned, twisted, and manipulated into a variety of different shapes. This is a satisfying tactile exercise, and the wooden click-clack sound the balls make when they strike each other can be soothing.

Also included in this Stay Sharp Kit is a card game called “Expressions,” a memory game that asks players to complete a well-known phrase, such as “up, up, and _ _ _ _” (away) or “the check is in the _ _ _ _” (mail). Most players find it satisfying to match the missing word with its corresponding phrase.

Like the “Let’s Move!” kit, all of the Stay Sharp Kits have interactive activities and a book. These activities offer a low-stakes way to interact with the people in your life who are experiencing memory loss. I encourage anyone with family or friends experiencing memory loss to try one out. Explore the different topics today and place a hold at scld. org/stay-sharp-kits.

Pickers,” which was influenced

by Peters’ own Mi’kmaq heritage.

In this riveting story, a young girl goes missing and her older brother is distraught for years to come. It is an intimate portrait of race, love, loneliness, and the power of forgiveness.

Holidays are often difficult for people experiencing memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease. On Thursday, November 6, at 2pm, the presentation “Supporting Those with Memory Loss During the Holidays” offers education and tips to help them manage the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holiday season.

Sign up at scld.org/supportholidays.

Follow along in your home kitchen while Chef Jacky Londoño of Antojitos Colombianos demonstrates the preparation of a traditional dish during “World Cooking: Colombian Food.” This live, online program takes place on Wednesday, November 12, at 6pm. Sign up at scld.org/worldcooking to receive an email with the ingredients list and recipe so you can purchase and prepare the ingredients in advance of the online cooking class. Bon appétit!

Sew Much More: Explore Quilting Introduction to Quilting: Potholders For adults Explore basic quilting techniques.

Find out about local quilting groups.

Registration is required.

CHENEY LIBRARY 610 First St Saturday, Oct 25, 10:30am–12pm MEDICAL LAKE LIBRARY 321 E Herb St Saturday, Nov 1, 10:30am–12pm

Sign up at

scld.org/quilting-classes

scld.org

18

• OCTOBER 2025

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Continued from page 15 senior was fourth overall last year at 1A state in Pasco, leading Medical Lake to a 10th-place overall finish.

The Stream is committed to serving the West Plains area through

ben@westplainsstream.com

Junior Kaylee Dennler won the Northeast A League and District 5 championships and placed fourth overall at Pasco with a time of 19:08.6, breaking the Medical Lake school record by two seconds, head coach Gene Blankenship said. She ran 20:12.95 at the NEA championships, and set a new PR of 18:38.40 for the District 5 crown.

excellent community journalism. We can’t do it at all without you, our readers, and we can’t do it for long without support from our advertisers. Please thank our business partners and look to them when offering your patronage.

Our sincere appreciation to the following businesses for their foundational partnerships with The Stream and its partner publications:

Football The Cardinals are still looking for their first win of the 2025 season as of Oct. 14, and their first win since Sept.

20 of last year when they knocked of Northeast 2B Davenport, 36-16.

Medical Lake is 0-2 in the Northeast A League, 0-5 overall, with nonleague games against Caribou Trail 1A Cascade (Leavenworth) 3-3 and Northeast 2B Reardan (4-2) sandwiching a final NEA matchup with Lakeside, 0-0, 2-3.

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Girls soccer

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Of note: This thank you message was produced by The Stream’s advertising team, which works its tail off on behalf of partner businesses, helping them share their messages through advertisements. This is an independent function from The Stream’s editorial team, which has its own evaluation process to determine the community news stories and features it pursues. For more information about a win-win partnership that expertly markets your business to thousands of readers (while making this home-grown community newspaper possible), email advertise@westplainsstream.com. With story ideas, contact editor@westplainsstream.com.

The Cardinals are 3-2, 1-2 in the NEA in their return to action in 2025.

Medical Lake opened with wins against GSL 3A Rogers, 3-2, Central Washington 2B Brewster, 2-0 and NEA foe Riverside, 4-3.

The Cards have since fallen on some difficult times, losing league matchups to NEA leader Colville, 2-0, and Lakeside, 9-0. Medical Lake has rematches with all three NEA teams, beginning with home matches against Lakeside (Oct. 21) and Colville (Oct. 23).

Volleyball The Cardinals sit in secondplace in the NEA at 2-2, 6-6 overall, with four matches remaining — including three against fellow league opponents in the second go-round of competition.

Danica Wick

CO OWNER

danica@westplainsstream.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Nina Culver, John McCallum

Freshman Aya McNeil is second in the NEA, with junior Autumn Trout fourth. The Cardinal girls have all seven varsity runners in the top15 in league times, with freshman Teagan Cadman ninth and juniors Mya Gardner, Feodora Lalicker and Allison Appel rounding out the times at 10-12.

The Cardinal girls are ranked second behind Meridian while the boys are sixth in the Washington Cross Country Coaches Association’s Oct. 6 1A poll.

Ben Wick

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

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ON THAT NOTE

The Stream

Shoes 2 Play Basketball Team brings shoes to those without

By Nina Culver

Stream contributor

Shoes 2 Play is a team of young basketball players who spend their off time shopping at the Nike store for shoes and socks to donate to students like themselves.

Ten-year old Kendall Myers has been on the team since it began.

She recently was among a group of players that visited Sunset Elementary in Airway Heights to deliver 50 pairs of shoes. “It was really cool,” she said. “I get to practice not only being good at a sport, but being good as a human being.”

The first school the team delivered shoes to was Windsor Elementary in the Cheney School District, where Myers attends. “It was really cool seeing some of those shoes walk around the hallways,” she said.

Myers’ mom, Kristen Myers, is a second grade teacher at Windsor.

She and the other teachers and the school counselor helped put together a list of students who needed shoes.

It’s fairly obvious when a student’s shoes are falling apart and students who are wearing shoes that are too small often complain that their feet hurt, Kristen Myers said. There are also students who routinely show up with no socks on.

It’s not unusual for the team to spend their Sunday afternoons shopping for shoes at the Nike store in downtown Spokane, said Kristen Myers. “Nike has been great to work with,” she said. “It’s pretty amazing to watch these girls get so excited about helping someone else.”

Shoes 2 Play is coached by Joshua Loera, who founded KBG Insurance and Financial six years ago. At the time he was coaching with Spokane Stars and one day he was chatting with a parent who spoke about kids going to school without proper shoes. “I just had the idea, I’d love to buy them shoes and socks,” he said.

He started Shoes 2 Play in April 2024 because his daughter wanted to play basketball year-round. Shoes 2 Play is a club team that plays other club teams in the region and it seemed natural to name the team after his desire to help children have good shoes.

“I want to teach these kids more than basketball,” Loera said. “I want to teach them servant leadership.”

Sunset Elementary School Principal Sara McKinnon said Kristen Myers reached out to her to see if she was interested in getting some shoes donated for students.

“She knew Sunset has a lot of need,” McKinnon said. “She just reached out to me.”

McKinnon said she appreciated

that each student received a 6-pack of socks in addition to new shoes.

“So many of our kids, if they have socks, they’re mismatched socks or too small socks,” she said.

McKinnon said she asked her teachers and counselors to send her names of students who needed shoes and socks. Sunset is a Title 1 school with over 80 percent of students receiving free or reduced lunch, which means most of the 600 students are low income. “It was hard to only pick 50,” she said.

Usually Shoes 2 Play players just drop off bags of shoes and socks at schools, but McKinnon invited them to stay and meet some of the recipients. Some of the students were so excited they were dancing.

“It was so powerful and they had never had that experience before,” she said. “They were reading them the notes, helping them put the shoes on. It was beautiful.”

The day after the shoes were dropped off, Superintendent Ben Ferney happened to visit the school.

One of the children who had received a new pair of shoes was so excited about it that he ran up to Ferney and invited him to smell his new shoes, McKinnon said. “For this child, he had never smelled new shoes,” she said.

McKinnon and Loera are working together to donate even more shoes to students at Sunset. “He offered to

OCTOBER 2025 • 19

do 50 more pairs,” she said. “I just sent him the list.”

Loera said his team may visit Sunset several more times. “We’ll probably purchase a couple hundred pairs just for Sunset,” he said.

Loera said he relies on word of mouth to identify schools in need of shoes, many of which end up being Title 1 schools, he said. “I rely a lot on teachers,” he said. “They come up with a list and send it to us and we go and buy the shoes for them.”

While several West Plains schools have been beneficiaries of Shoes 2 Play, Loera said he doesn’t limit where they donate. “It’s wherever we find a need,” he said.

Many of the shoes and socks are funded by The Great Pumpkinfest, a fall festival hosted on four weekends in September and October. The event, hosted at Brick West Brewing in downtown Spokane, includes face painting, a petting zoo, a cornhole tournament, line dancing on Friday nights, live music on Saturday nights and, of course, pumpkins.

The fourth annual Great Pumpkinfest is currently underway.

Proceeds go to Loera’s foundation, the Love Your Neighbor Foundation, which funds the shoe buying and donates to other local charities. The final weekend is set for Oct. 17-19.

A complete schedule is available online at https://seeyouatthepatch. org.

“Those kids are with us seven hours a day,” she said. “We know our kids.”

Each child receives a new pair of shoes, a package of new socks and a personalized note written by a member of the Shoes 2 Play team. Myers said writing the notes is her favorite part. She also likes picking out pairs of shoes she thinks students will like. The team is given the gender, age and shoe size of each student.

Earlier this month the team delivered 43 pairs of shoes to the cross country team at Broadway Elementary in the Central Valley School District. In that case, Myers said, the team made sure to pick out running shoes.

Contributed photo The Shoes 2 Play team members pictured above are (L-R): Kiah Kirsch, Tatum Loera, Halle Appleton, Kendall Myers, Josie Bolser, Kate Decker, Jase Vaughan, Khloe Pena.

20

• OCTOBER 2025

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