May 6, 2024
May 6, 2024
AIRWAY HEIGHTS – A man wanted for allegedly abducting a woman from a home here was apprehended and booked into the Spokane County Jail on Tuesday evening, April 30. Joseph Parisian, 51, was being detained without bail in the jail on a U.S. Marshall's Office hold at press time. Parisian was the subject of a two-day manhunt inconnection with the alleged kidnapping of Amanda Pakootas, 38, who was reported missing April 27. Airway Heights police said she was located safely in...
CHENEY - Following an extensive interview process, Sara McKennon has been chosen as the next principal of Sunset Elementary School, pending board approval. The selection comes after a rigorous evaluation involving various stakeholders, including district administrators, staff and students. Superintendent Ben Ferney expressed satisfaction with the outcome. "The pool of candidates for the Sunset principal position was strong, and Sara rose to the top throughout the interview...
SPOKANE — Political hopefuls can officially file for office next week to compete in the August primary election. Candidate filing opens at 8 a.m. Monday, May 6, and continues until Friday, May 10. Depending on the office being sought, candidates will be able to file with Spokane County or the state; candidate may be done in person or online. Fees may also be paid in person or online. The Top 2 candidates in each race advance to the November general election. Congressional District No. 5, where incumbent Republican Cathy...
CHENEY – A break—in reported to the Police Department on April 27 has local officials asking questions. The caller reported an intruder in their home in the 200 block of North 11th Street, prompting a swift response, police said. Upon reaching the scene, police found the door ajar and heard cries from inside. Identifying themselves as law enforcement, they entered the residence, police said. Inside, they found only the caller, who declined help from the authorities, records show. Due to minor injuries sustained by the...
The annual Red-White game at Eastern Washington University on April 26 provided fans with a spring glimpse of what's to come next fall when the Eagles take to Roos Field. The defense started with a 31-point lead, and ultimately won, 41-20. Above, quarterback Kekoa Visperas puts his feet to work signaling a first down. At right, under pressure by Trevor Thurman,Visperas launches the ball downfield. The Eagles will open the 2024 season Aug. 29 against Monmouth...
CHENEY – The School Board deliberated last Wednesday on facilities planning in anticipation of reintroducing a bond initiative next year to finance the construction of two new elementary schools. In the Feb. 13 special election, the district’s initial bond proposal fell short of the required 60% majority vote for approval. Superintendent Ben Ferney set the stage for the discussion, outlining the district’s commitment to strategic planning and introducing Phil Crocker, who led the planning process for the original bond...
Cheney CHENEY – Cheney police reported the following calls for service from April 22 – 28: April 22 Cheney police department and Cheney fire department responded to the location of a deceased subject at 300 block of Erie St. Nothing suspicious was located at the scene. Case is open pending results from the Medical Examiner. Cheney police department and Cheney fire department responded to the location of a deceased subject at 1700 block of 4th St. Deceased was released to a funeral home. Fraud reported at 1000 block of...
Dozens of area residents and children turned out Saturday, April 27, to participate in the St. John Community Fair. Above left, Rhett Sterman leads his bovine during the PeeWee showing, and was later crowned PeeWee Beef Grand Champion. At right, Ellie Schlomer and mother show a goat during the PeeWee showingsand was crowned Reserve...
CHENEY – At the City Council meeting held last Tuesday, April 23, city administrator Mark Schuller addressed the urgent need to renew the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) levy, which is set to expire this year. The resolution passed unanimously. The current levy, in its sixth year, provides essential funding for emergency medical personnel, amounting to $0.50 per $1,000 assessed valuation. The proposed renewal Levy, if approved, will span from 2025 to 2030. The primary election to decide on this crucial measure is slated...
CHENEY – During the City Council meeting April 23, the council unanimously approved an ordinance amending Title 21 of the Municipal Code concerning in-fill development standards and dimensional adjustments. The ordinance also updates zoning regulations for business park and light industrial zones. Public Works Director Todd Ableman outlined the proposed amendments, emphasizing the need to align zoning code with the comprehensive plan and accommodate the evolving needs of the community. Among the proposed changes was the...
CHENEY – In the latest school district board meeting held on April 24, the spotlight fell on the Financial and Enrollment Report presented by Jamie Reed, the Financial Director of the district. The report shed light on the fiscal landscape and enrollment trends impacting the district’s budgetary considerations. One of the central points highlighted in the report was the stability of the fund balance, which remained unchanged. However, the impending budget for the upcoming year poses a challenge, with projections...
CHENEY — As spring blooms across Cheney, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) club at Cheney High School prepares to host its annual plant sale, offering a vibrant array of flowers and vegetables grown by students. Scheduled for May 9th and 10th from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Cheney High School’s Greenhouse, and May 15th and 16th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the sale presents an opportunity for the community to support local agriculture while adding beauty to their homes and...
CHENEY – Council members unanimously approved Resolution F—242, which pertained to the submission of a grant application to the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation druing an April 23 meeting. The grant aims to support efforts in preserving city historic and cultural resources. “This money could help us update Cheney’s historic preservation ordinance and integrate preservation strategies into our Comprehensive Plan,” Public Works Director Todd Ableman said. Councilman Paul Schmidt...
SPOKANE — The Spokane County Library District is opening May programs with a Star Wars theme. Star Wars Jedi Academy invites youngsters to try out galactic activities and show off themed costumes. Families and kids can flex their building skills during LEGO Free Play and learn more STEAM during Take It Apart, Build It, Rock Garden Painting Party and Creating Rubber Band Racers. Teens can design Star Wars Temporary Tattoo-ines and learn about Documentary Filmmaking. If Star Wars is too far out of this world for you, the...
TYLER - A wind turbine corporation has been acquiring land leases across southern Spokane County from the Tyler area to Fairfield. Over the last five months, Cordelio Development Holdings LLC of Toronto, Canada, has acquired 20 leases across southern Spokane, northern Whitman and eastern Lincoln Counties. The purchases include parcels near Cheney, Fairfield, Latah, Waverly and Tyler, according to county records. Details of some of the purchased tracts have yet to be made...
DEEP CREEK—The Spokane Hutterian Brethren figured most of their seed potatoes were going to go to waste after their main customers in the Columbia Basin cut their contracts by 40%. So, Hutterians dumped the spuds in a West Sprague Road field. Instead, a video posted online by Denise Bennett of Reardan alerted locals to the free spuds. And it has brought thousands to pick up their share of potatoes from the hundreds of tons that have already been dumped. “I guess people...
OLYMPIA — The state Department of Ecology has declared a statewide drought emergency for everywhere except cities with large storage basins. The drought update was issued Friday, April 19, with the agency predicting a warm, dry spring. According to the agency, the weather forecast will leave many watershed statewide with low water. The declaration allows state agencies to provide drought-related assistance in a more timely manner. Gov. Jay Inslee calked up this year’s forecast drought to global warming. “As our...
CHENEY – A motorist is facing multiple charges following an April 4 pursuit and disposal of a firearm at a school. Jakob D. Petitto, 30, was arrested and booked into the Spokane County Jail on cahrges of attempting to elude, second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended license and being a fugitive from justice related to the out-of-state warrant. Petitto has five previous felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm, records...
Airway Heights AIRWAY HEIGHTSS — Police arrested the following individuals between April 13-20: April 13 Katelynn D. Ulrich arrested for third-degree theft-shoplifting in the 12800 block of West Highway 2. Tonya M. Stevens arrested for first-degree criminal trespassing in the 14300 block of West Highway 2. April 17 Robert B. Don arrested for violation of a protection order in the 13600 block of West Sixth Avenue. Cheney CHENEY — The Police Deparment reported the following calls for service from April 14-21: April 14...
AIRWAY HEIGHTS – The Police Department has acquired multiple K9 units on behalf of the Washington State Department of Corrections. The acquisition, discussed April 18 at the Plains Safety Alliance meeting, marks an advancement in the department’s crisis response capabilities, officials said. “I want to highlight what makes this dog different,” co-responder Jenny Mandin said. “She’s there to be crisis response.” Unlike traditional German Shepherds commonly seen in law enforcement, crisis response dogs are...
MEDICAL LAKE – During the April 16 City Council meeting, Finance Director Koss Ronhault presented a comprehensive budget report for the first quarter of the year. Ronhault provided insights into the financial report, emphasizing the meticulous process of reviewing financial statements and ensuring compliance. “We have controls in place, secondary reviews of journal entries, reconciliation procedures, a lot of practices that weren’t in place,” he said. Ronhault highlighted efforts to rectify deficiencies identified...
CHENEY – City officials are calling the April 13 Medication Take Back Event a success. More than 70 pounds of unused, outdated medications were collected, officials said. The event proved to be a resounding success according to Jessica Deutsch, the Community Coalition Coordinator for Talk2HealthyChoices. The organization was among the participants, which also included local police, fire and other emergency responders. Hundreds of community members participated in the event,...
City seeks $2 million in funds AIRWAY HEIGHTS – At the recent West Plains Safety Alliance meeting, discussions centered around the proposed construction of Bezos Academy, a childcare center. The Police Department’s Alise Mnati expressed gratitude for the letters of support received for the project. Mnati said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Shoreline, requested $2 million in funding for the project through the Community Development Block Grant program. Mnati noted the insufficient availability of childcare facilities in the...
ROSALIA - Donning special eclipse-viewing glasses, Rosalia Elementary School fifth-graders took the opportunity Monday, April 8 to see the solar spectacle through dense glasses. Their "eclipse party" was the culmination of a morning of fun, educational activities. Fifth-grade teacher Robyn Fjelseth spent the week before Spring Break teaching her pupils all about eclipses and having them prepare an educational event with other elementary students. Fjelseth fifth-graders made...
CHENEY — Authorities are investigating an assault and robbery that occurred in the late hours of Friday, April 12. According to reports, the victim had their vehicle forcibly taken from them in the 10 block of North Seventh Street. The severity of the incident has led authorities to assert that should the suspects be identified, there is probable cause for charges including first-degree robbery, theft of a motor vehicle, theft of a firearm and general theft offenses, Police Chief Rick Beghtol said. The victim’s vehicle...
CHENEY — An apparent stalking incident prompted two local men to jump into action at about 9 p.m. Sunday, April 14. But, according to Police Chief Rick Beghtol, the good Samaritans couldn’t catch the man suspected of stalking a local woman. According to the chief, police received a report of a man allegedly following a woman in the 100 block of Erie Street. The woman, whose name has yet to be released publicly, confronted her alleged stalker, the chief said. And two other men stepped in to help her. Despite their...
DAVENPORT—The trial of a Sprague defendant in a criminal sex case has been continued again. This time, the trial of Jonathan Ray Stocker, 42, of Sprague, was continued because he was served with a federal warrant. Stocker is being held in the Lincoln County Jail. Stocker is already charged with five counts of first-degree possession of depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and one count of second-degree possession of depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit. The federal warrant was issued for...
The West Plains Little League season official kicked off Saturday, April 13, with a ceremony in Salnave Park. For more on opening day, see Page...
CHENEY – The School Board meeting April 10 featured a detailed analysis of the community response to a special election bond proposal. Jenna Larson took the stage to go over the survey findings. The bond proposal, which aimed to address infrastructure needs within the district, elicited community engagement, she said. With multiple modes of distribution, the proposal garnered responses from 395 individuals. Of the respondents, 161 voted to approve the bond, while 167 voted to reject it, she said. Additionally, 24...
RITZVILLE — Sen. Mark Schoesler is following a gun case in Western Washington closely. On Monday, April 8, Cowlitz County Superior Court Judge Gary Bashor ruled that the 2022 state law banning high-capacity magazines is unconstitutional. “As you might guess, Attorney General Bob Ferguson did not take this news well,” Schoesler, R-Ritzville, said in an email. The case involves Gator Custom Guns in Kelso, which was sued by the state in an effort to stop the business from selling magazines capable of holding more than 10...
Airway Heights AIRWAY HEIGHTS — The Police Department arrested the following individuals from April 8-15: April 8 Robert B. Don arrested in the 13600 block of West Sixth Avenue for violation of a protection order-previous conviction. April 9 Nova M. Burt arrested in the 12600 block of West Highway 2 for fourth-degree assault-domestic violence. Matthew R. McCauley arrested in the 12500 block of West Highway 2 for fourth-degree assault-domestic violence. April 10 Daniel W. Jackson arrested in the 12800 block of West Highway...
Fairchild trains for shooter FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE — Base officials and employees participated in an active-shooter response exercise April 11. Personnel and visitors saw first responders conducting emergency procedures, heard sirens and loud noises emanating from the exercise area and saw vehicles racing to an “emergency.” The exercise did not impact on-base services, such as medical appointments or exchange and commissary operations, officials said. Council OKs fire contract CHENEY — The City Council has...
CHENEY — School District officials are expecting the growth in the student population to slow. During the April 10 School Board meeting, Finance Director Jamie Reed reported on the district’s financial status and enrollment trends. Reed noted that despite fluctuations in enrollment, the district is maintaining a consistent financial outlook. “We’re budgeting for flat enrollment,” Reed said, highlighting the stability amid shifting demographic patterns. A closer look at enrollment figures revealed that kindergarten...
CHENEY – Brett Lucas took the lead at the Planning Commission Meeting on Monday, April 8, presenting the Capital Facilities Plan spanning 2024-29. The six-year plan aims to uphold the quality of life by identifying and addressing basic services over the next two decades, as mandated by the Growth Management Act. Lucas emphasized the significance of capital facilities, defining them as major, non-recurring expenditures with fixed assets costing $50,000 or more and possessing a useful life of at least 10 years. These...
CHENEY — The Planning Commission met on Monday, April 8, to address the complexities surrounding construction and non-city-owned features in the right-of-way. City Administrator Mark Schuller led the presentation, highlighting the need for clarifying and simplifying regulations. Currently, these features are regulated under either a license or a permit, creating challenges for both applicants and city staff. “With five different chapters governing today, every project may have to obtain multiple permits for a scope of...
CHENEY — Andy LaBolle, the owner of West Plains Roasters, made a generous gesture at the City Council meeting April 9 by presenting a donation totaling $18,500 to Cheney Cupboard. Expressing his fondness for the community, LaBolle shared, “My wife and I love Cheney.” He highlighted the support received from 53 sponsors, primarily local businesses spanning from Cheney and Airway Heights to Coeur d’Alene. The donation stemmed from a charity poker event hosted by West Plains Roasters on April 2 and 3, drawing in 65...
Timberwolf Briley Smith of Rosalia competed for Tekoa-Rosalia at the Undeberg Invitational on Saturday in Rosalia. Smith qualified for the finals in girls shot put, where she ninth overall with a personal record toss of...
SOCCER Cheney wraps up GSL play CHENEY - The Blackhawks boys soccer completed the initial Greater Spokane League regular season for head coach Noah Prophet with shutout and shootout losses. Cheney (2-6 GSL/6-8 overall) dropped a 2-0 game April 24 vs. Lewis and Clark (6-2/11-3) at ONE Spokane Stadium. On April 26, the Blackhawks had to go into overtime and finally a shootout before falling Gonzaga Prep 1-0 on senior day. Jackson Reagan came out of goal to score the Blackhawks'...
SPOKANE — Cheney baseball put an end to a three game Greater Spokane League losing streak last week in a memorable manner. The Blackhawks earned back-to-back wins over Ferris, 10-3 and 6-3, and then North Central, 14-4 with pitchers all notching complete games. Quinn Hubbs tossed a three-hit, 10 strikeout game April 23 in Cheney against the Saxons (2-15). He added his bat to the mix, too, stroking a pair of hits — including a home run – while scoring twice and driving in a pair of runs. Tate Heuschkel had three hits...
The Spokane Stealth select girls lacrosse team wrapped up its season Monday night against Sandpoint in a battle at the Southeast Sports Complex in Spokane. The team includes several players from Cheney and Rosalia. Additional information was unavailable at press...
PULLMAN — Cheney boys golf competed in a pair of tournaments last week, one a non-league and the other in Greater Spokane League play. At the non-league event, played April 25 at Palouse Ridge in Pullman, the Blackhawks finished eighth with a 29-over par. Kamiakin from Kennewick won at seven-over. Individually for Cheney Ryan Howe shot a 77 and got a 79 from Brayden Anderson, 80 from Blake Kernen and 81 from Kyren Fleming. In the Greater Spokane League’s fourth match and concluding of the season was played at Qualchan...
MEDICAL LAKE — The Cardinals boys soccer team completed regular season Northeast A League play the way one wants with postseason in grasp by keeping a winning streak alive. The Cardinals concluded the NEA schedule with sixth straight wins following a 3-1 victory at Deer Park, April 23 and a 2-1 overtime decision at home vs. Lakeside, April 27. “The run is a result of senior leadership and the desire to make it out of our league and on to the state tourney,” assistant coach Dan Collins wrote in an email. That senior...
Cheney track and field competed in its next-to-last Greater Spokane League meet April 26 with the boys scoring a pair of easy wins and the girl’s narrow losses. The Blackhawks’ boys topped Ferris 107-38 and Ridgeline 90-55 while the girls lost to Ferris 74-66 and Ridgeline 71-69. Later in the week, both teams competed at the Shoreline Invitational where the Blackhawk boys were sixth out of 44 teams and girls seventh in a 50-team field. “It was a great senior night, but we were gearing up for Shoreline, so most kids...
MEDICAL LAKE - The boys baseball team did what it needed to do to earn a spot in the Northeast A League playoffs. Following a split in which they lost to Deer Park 13-3 on April 23, topped Riverside 7-0 on April 27 and played at Newport on April 30, the question remains just who and where the Cardinals play next? With Lakeside's 9-2 record a lock for first-place, four other teams battled this week for positioning with a potential four-way tie entirely possible between Medical...
SPOKANE — The game plan last week for Cheney fastpitch softball played out just as Coach Gary Blake hoped. The Blackhawks got the wins they knew were possible, 14-2 over Ridgeline and 8-7 on the road at Mead. The 20-0 loss to undefeated Greater Spokane League leader University was not unexpected. As a result, Cheney’s 10-5 record is tied with Mead for third-place and the Blackhawks remain well-positioned for the postseason with three games to play. “We did what we needed to do,” Blake said. “We won the two games...
MEDICAL LAKE - When is a loss a good thing? When it teaches lessons, perhaps? That might be the way Medical Lake baseball coach Austin Sharp looks at last week's 16-10 non-league loss during the inaugural Flashback Friday at Colfax. Earlier in the week the Cardinals earned an 11-1 Northeast A League win over Newport. The game between the 2B Bulldogs and 1A Cardinals first filled a void in the Colfax schedule and put a big crowd in the stands to watch teams compete in...
FISHING Fisherman’s breakfast on tap MEDICAL LAKE – The annual Fisherman’s breakfast will take place this Saturday, April 27, at Spokane County Fire Station No. 311. Firefighters will provide eggs, sausage, pancakes and bacon from 5 a.m. to noon; proceeds benefit the volunteer fire association. The annual event corresponds with the opening day of lowland lake fishing season. FOOTBALL Red-White game set for Friday CHENEY — Eastern Washington University’s football team finishes its spring practice schedule with the...
The No. 1 doubles team of Victoria Baycroft and Paige Lacey earned the lone win for Cheney in a Greater Spokane League tennis match loss to Ferris on April 18. The pair won 6-2,...
Cheney Blackhawk Miles Hoover dives into second base safely during a doubleheader against Ridgeline on April 19. Ridgeline swept the series, 6-2 in the opener and 12-9 in the nightcap. The Blackhaws (4-12, 3-11 in league) was scheduled to host Ferris on Tuesday night, then travel to Ferris on Thursday, April 25, before playing at North Central on Friday, April 26. Games start at 4...
MEDICAL LAKE - A dramatic overtime win highlighted Medical Lake's perfect week of play in Northeast A League soccer. The Cardinals (7-3 NEA, 9-6 overall) began the week by topping Northwest Christian (Colbert), 2-1, on April 16 and followed with wins of 9-2 against Newport on April 18 and 5-0 over Colville on April 19. Medical Lake got goals from brothers Kaden and Kaison Rudy in the win over Northwest Christian (Colbert) with Kaden Rudy scoring on a penalty kick in overtime...
MEDICAL LAKE — When is a loss a good thing? When it teaches lessons, perhaps? That might be the way Medical Lake baseball coach Austin Sharp looks at last week’s 16-10 non-league loss during the inaugural Flashback Friday at Colfax. Earlier in the week the Cardinals earned an 11-1 Northeast A League win over Newport. The game between the 2B Bulldogs and 1A Cardinals first filled a void in the Colfax schedule and put a big crowd in the stands to watch teams compete in 1990s-era uniforms. It may be the start of a...
CHENEY — Cheney track and field athletes scored several individual wins in their Greater Spokane League meet April 18, but those were not enough to lift the Blackhawks to any team victories. Competing at North Central and with Mead, Cheney boys lost to the hosts 77-68 and 89-56 to Mead. The Blackhawk girls were edged by North Central, 77-73 with Mead winning handily, 112-33. On April 20 both teams finished fourth in the annual Mooberry Relays at Rogers High School in Spokane. Calvin Hilton ran a 9-minute, 23.44 second...
COLFAX - The Liberty boys and girls put on a strong showing Tuesday afternoon, April 23, at a league meet in Colfax. The boys finished third as a team with 71 points; the girls were fourth with 69 points. Asotin won the boys division, followed by Asotin, with 96 and 78 team points, respectively. Garfield-Palouse won the girls meet with 119 points, followed by Odessa with 98 and Colfax with 96. The only Lancer to win an event was senior Colten Kroll in discus, with a flight of...
MEDICAL LAKE —On a freezing and cold blustery day, the Medical Lake girl’s track and field team had to supply some measure of warmth with its performance. The Cardinals breezed past Riverside 99-36 and Deer Park 80-66 establishing a dozen personal records along the way in an April 18 Northeast A League win at home. Medical Lake’s boys, meanwhile, also topped Riverside but lost a painfully close competition 73.33 to 70.67 to Deer Park. “It was windy and cold as can be, I was freezing death all day long,” head coach...
CHENEY - A 2-1 week has kept Cheney fast pitch softball on a recent hot streak in Greater Spokane League play. Following an 11-1 loss to Mt. Spokane, April 16, the Blackhawks got victories over Ferris, 10-8 on April 18 and Lewis and Clark, 8-1 the following afternoon. Cheney has five wins in its last six games. A 5-run first inning set the tone against Mt. Spokane who limited Cheney (8-4 GSL, 8-6 overall) to just four hits. The 11-1 Wildcats trail GSL leader University at...
Blackhawks snap losing streak CHENEY - The Blackhawks scored five runs in their opening at-bat on the way to an 11-3 Greater Spokane League win over University that snapped Cheney's six-game losing streak. Notable for the Blackhawks were Carter McPherson who smacked a triple and had a pair of RBIs, plus pitched 5 1/3 innings for the win. Miles Hoover had a pair of hits and Tate Heuschkel a hit and three RBIs. Cheney's next home game is April 19 against Ridgeline following an...
CHENEY - It's taken several decades, but Dan Monson has come very much full circle. On Friday, April 12 the former Gonzaga, Minnesota and Long Beach State coach was named Eastern Washington's 20th men's basketball coach. And on Monday, April 15, he returned to Cheney to meet with media, fans and boosters. His connections run deep in the area and that was a strong selling point for EWU athletic director Tim Collins and the selection committee composed of a variety of school...
CHENEY - Cheney track and field opened Greater Spokane League competition April 11 at Central Valley, in a meet also featuring Mount Spokane. The Blackhawks boys lost to CV, 105-40, and Mount Spokane, 107-38, while the girls faced similar results - Mount Spokane won, 105-45, and CV prevailed 85-61. On Saturday, April 13 both Blackhawks teams fared much better at home in the Van Kuren Invitational. The boys won the team title among 30 teams over GSL rival Ridgeline, 73-54,...
Medical Lake head coach Austin Sharp and Taylor Oliver show off the 1990s-era jersey the team will wear in a baseball game set for 6 p.m. Friday, April 19, in Colfax. Both teams will wear uniforms from the 1990s in non-league contest Colfax put together to fill an opening in its schedule. Medical Lake will look to halt a three-game losing streak following losses last week, 5-2, at Riverside on April 9; and Lakeside, 7-4 and 14-4, on April 13. The Cardinals...
SPOKANE —A no-hitter by Maya De La Cruz and a 24-0 win over North Central on April 12 concluded a 3-1 week for Cheney fastpitch in Greater Spokane League play. While Blackhawks’ bats were silenced in an April 8 loss, 7-0, at University, they came alive to conclude the week with a 25-5 win at Central Valley on April 9 and a 17-6 victory over at Gonzaga Prep on April 11. Coupled with the North Central win, Cheney concluded the first half of the GSL schedule with a 6-3 record and in fourth place. Against North Central,...
Hundreds of families and aspiring ball playes turned out Saturday, April 13 for the opening ceremonies of the West Plains Little League season. At left, Coach Coodinator Randy Weatherbee served as the emcee. Above, girls softball players are introducted to the crowd in Salnave Park in...
Unfortunately, too many pragmatic Democrats and Republicans in Congress are retiring at a time when we need them most. Two are from Washington: Reps. Derek Kilmer, D—Olympic Peninsula, and Cathy McMorris Rodgers R—Spokane. McMorris Rodgers and Kilmer cut their political teeth in Washington’s Legislature. While they faithfully followed their parties, they found ways to come together on issues vital to our state and nation. McMorris Rodgers was elected to Congress in 2004 and Kilmer in 2012. Recently, problem—solving...
Gov. Jay Inslee wants to buy 8,767 people a $1,125 latte. Metaphorically, at least. Inslee’s new program to subsidize the purchase of electric vehicles is so wasteful at reducing CO2 emissions, it is the equivalent of paying that absurd amount for a 16—ounce latte. On Earth Day, Inslee announced a $45 million program to subsidize the purchase or lease of electric vehicles. The program is targeted at those making 300% of the federal poverty level or less, which amounts to $93,600 per year for a family of four. The...
Regarding the Todd Myers column published April 25, “Inslee using tax money to sell his tax policy.” First, I have living in Washington state for over 80 years. I have seen the climate change over and over; that’s the natural cycle. The climate will continue for the next 1,000 years. Inslee and his jack—booted attorney general are both card carrying communists, who believe everything you earn should be turned over to them. Inslee does not have the right to use taxpayer money to extort more money from the...
I am the owner of nearly 1,000 acres of Palouse soil. Stuart Wilson, my son, is currently farming that acreage. I have loved the land, every inch of it, since my youngest age, working often with my father and mother, being involved in using the various pieces of farming equipment and in following the practices required. Now, after 87 years, I am doing my best in my official capacity as landlady. As for me, I would never want to disturb my neighbors with ugly usages of my land. Wind turbine developments being planned are not...
As Washington’s CO2 tax, known as the Climate Commitment Act, heads to the ballot this fall, this logo highlighting projects that received funding from that tax will become more prevalent. And you are paying for it. The use of taxpayer-resources to promote the CO2 tax follows the decision by the Legislature to send one-time checks of $200 to utility customers funded by the Climate Commitment Act just two-months before the November election. It is part of a pattern we are likely to see accelerate as the vote on I-2117,...
On July 13, 2012, President Obama was giving a speech in Roanoke, Va., and said this: “Somebody helped to create this unbelievable American system that we have that allowed you to thrive. Somebody invested in roads and bridges. If you’ve got a business, you didn’t build that.” Those three sentences sparked a brush fire in that year’s presidential election that he spent the next few weeks trying to walk back. But while the third sentence tried to take credit away from entrepreneurs, and the second sentence tried to...
In a backwards approach to helping tenants, the Federal Government is capping rent increases on subsidized housing at 10% in a bid to reduce the cost of rental properties. The result, should the measures be adopted, will be exactly the opposite and rents will go up. When you place caps on rent, instead of letting the market drive the pricing, the supply of rental property declines and the result is higher demand and higher prices for rent. There is a short-term impact to rental costs, but as many studies show, including a...
Carmela Conroy gives Eastern Washington voters the unusual, important opportunity to elect a foreign policy expert as their U.S. Representative. As a foreign service officer for 24 years, she served in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Norway, New Zealand and Tom Foley’s Japan office. Voters must weigh foreign policy experience much more than usual in their 2024 voting decisions. Foreign policy expertise is also prerequisite for ending the tragic Israeli-Palestinian conflict that Trump has accepted uncaringly. Like retiring Rep....
Volunteer firefighters in Medical Lake served breakfast to fisherman turning out for the first day of lowland lake season. Proceeds from the annual event benefit the local volunteer firefighters...
I love finding treasures, whether it be at thrift stores, or estate sales, or even in my own home when I’m clearing and cleaning and decorating. I’ve written about our trip to Norway where we raided all the Fretex thrift stores in every city we visited, and hauled home a duffle bag full of Norwegian sweaters for everyone in the family, and some extras as well. The seaters were souvenirs of our trip and continue to enrich my life every winter, whenever I wear them. I also love my collections, most of which are from...
CHENEY – In its 14th year, Feed Cheney continues to serve community support and collaboration, with the Cheney FFA club and culinary arts students taking center stage in providing nourishment and fellowship to those in need. Carol Kreigh, an organizer of the event, shed light on the evolution and significance of Feed Cheney. The event has undergone significant changes over the past two years, according to Kreigh. While they no longer distribute groceries, thanks to the...
CHENEY - The Cheney High School drama program is embarking on a bold path as it seeks to get a fresh start following COVID-19. And it starts with their upcoming presentation of "The SpongeBob Musical" at the school May 2-4 and May 9-11. Show times are at 7 p.m. There's an added matinee performance set for 1 p.m. May 11,as well. "From the from the director's perspective, this year has been an exciting year us at Cheney," program director Mike Scott said. "We are rebuilding the...
Summer concert series looms MEDICAL LAKE – The city is planning a shorter concert series for the summer. While originally planned as a 10-week concert series, city officials have decided to go with a shorter series on their Summer music concert series, said Ross Konhault told the City Council on April 16. “This is the first step in building this out and creating a constant flow of tourism,” Konhault said. Bus service from the high school parking lot to the downtwon concert location may be added to easy parking issues....
CHENEY – Developments are underway at the Sigma Nu House on College Street at Eastern Washington University, as renovations kick off this weekend, including the installation of a brand-new roof. Supported by a strong network of over 600 alumni, the chapter recently launched a successful “Buy a Brick” campaign to raise funds for the remodeling and modernization of their fraternity house. These bricks, to be adorned along the front sidewalk, symbolize the enduring support and dedication of the chapter’s alumni...
“A priest, a rabbi, and a minister walk into a bar…” is the start of many silly jokes that get a good chuckle out of most of us. Why is humor so important to humans? Just look at any social media outlet and you will see it chock full of funny memes or silly stories. For those who read newspapers, the Funnies section is often the most sought after. When I worked for Cheney Free Press, I fielded customer phone calls regarding the Funnies section. Some would be concerned if news content was such that our funnies were...
Rhubarb and asparagus will soon be available in local gardens, and farmers markets. Both spring treats are acquired tastes, with some folks relishing the season, and others expressing a hard no, when presented with the choice. Crisps, cobblers and pies are the common recipes for rhubarb preparation. A bit different, Rhubarb Magic Custard Cake is a rich dessert pudding style cake. It takes a few extra steps in the preparation, but the result is worth the effort. The recipe...
In Nature, plants have community. Ponderosa Pine, Lupine, Arrowroot Balsam not only enhance one another, they need one another. Also true with vegetables in our gardens. We often refer to compatible plants as companion plants. Before we prepare our plots for planting we might consider which vegetable grows best with another and why. Most gardeners are familiar with the Native American tradition of incorporating the 'Three Sisters,' corn, beans and squash. The symbiotic...
CHENEY – Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge played host to a thriving Earth Day event April 20, drawing participants from across the region. The event ran from 9 a.m. to noon, and offered a range of activities aimed at conservation and environmental stewardship. Attendees banded together to engage in various tasks, including potting and planting native trees, removing restoration fencing and contributing to the development of a pollinator garden. One of the highlights of the...
April is not still. Underground, the roots are stretching — their arms pale and green. Above ground, tulip’s sword-like blades cut through the soil, allowing space for the tulip’s chalice to shine its red, yellow, or pink petals. Above, the trees are whispering in the breeze, and the grasses bend and bow. Robins bob on the lawn, looking for a treat. When the rain comes, it patters and plays polkadots on the sidewalk and the soil. The air has washed itself of staleness and is now refreshed, and refreshing. If we are...
As a former pet owner who took boxes of puppies, yes boxes of puppies, not yet weaned to my house from the road near my house, I know attachment one has to its pets. I have also welcomed my children’s dogs and now grand dogs when the ‘Two Legged’ go on vacation. As a former professional landscape designer, I always asked these questions. 1. Do you have pets? 2. If dogs, are they male or female? 3. How do you propose to use your yard? 4. What are your favorite plants? 5. If you want lawn do you care what it looks like?...
CHENEY — The Cheney High School FFA club is gearing up for an evening of entertainment and community engagement as they host Bingo Night on Thursday, April 25. The 5 p.m. event aims to bring together students, families and community members for a fun-filled evening while supporting the club. Senior FFA membes Grace Klinkenberg, 18, and Lincoln Miller, 17, spoke about the efforts that have gone into making it a success. “We recently started an alumni group, to help donate to FFA,” Klinkenberg said. The idea stemmed...
Logan Mark Porter, age 32, passed away on April 28, 2024, after a courageous 8 year battle with cancer. He was born on Nov. 16, 1991, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, Wash. From day one, Logan was a strong willed individual. He had a personality and smile that left a lasting impression on all who met him. Logan grew up in Cheney, Wash., where he attended school and started his own business, detailing vehicles. He was a hard worker, but also a caring person who would... Full story
Jim passed peacefully in his sleep April 21, 2024 at the Cheney Care Center after a short illness. He was born July 10, 1931 to James E Rogers (Ernie) and Lois Jessie Pendell. He was joined four years later by a brother Charles. Jim attended school in Spokane where he graduated from Lewis and Clark High School. He joined the Army just after the Korea initiative and spent time in Germany, France, England and Italy. He loved his time there and talked about it often. When Jim... Full story
SPOKANE VALLEY – Spokane Valley Major Crimes Detectives apprehended 29-year-old Brendon M. McCullough, a repeat felon, following his involvement in a shooting incident on March 8. McCullough faces multiple felony charges in connection with the altercation. According to ongoing investigations, McCullough and the deceased, 16-year-old Nathaniel Byers, purportedly ventured to an apartment on S. Bowdish Road to carry out a drug-related robbery. McCullough, accompanied by an adult female, engaged in the robbery within the...
Hearing examiner rules changed SPOKANE VALLEY – At the April 30 city council meeting, a new amendment to the Spokane Valley Municipal Code was passed with a vote of six to one. Kelly Konkright, the city attorney, clarified that this amendment was crucial for enforcing chapter five of the municipal code, ensuring smoother proceedings in the future. The changes focus mostly on code of conduct violations, and gives council members who’ve been accused of violating that code the ability to to demand a hearing before the City...
SPOKANE VALLEY – During the first week of April, burglars struck a storage facility in the 3700 block of East 55th Avenue, stealing an estimated $10,000 - $15,000 worth of property from at least five victims. The suspects arrived in a Nissan 4-door sedan, believed to be an Altima, with visible front-end damage to the driver's side hood and bumper area. Although the cameras failed to capture the suspects' faces clearly, investigators are confident that individuals familiar...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Spokane Valley deputies responded to an attempted burglary and a suspicious vehicle call near the same location, determining the vehicle was an unreported stolen car used in the burglary attempt. The suspect, 20-year-old Damien D. Ocacio, matching the description from store surveillance footage, was arrested shortly afterward. Deputies were called to investigate a suspicious vehicle at the junction of North Farr Road and East Main at 6:30 am on April 24. They found a black Toyota Camry partially blocking...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Deputies responded to a domestic violence call involving a suspect threatening four victims with a handgun at 5:00 pm on April 26. After fleeing toward I-90, the suspect, Michael M. McCoy, was located by Air 1 Flight Crew during a scheduled patrol flight and safely apprehended with the assistance of ground units, including a K9 team. According to the caller, McCoy was believed to be armed and had threatened to kill four family members, last seen sitting on the north side barrier wall of I-90. The victims...
ORCHARDS – Spokane County Deputies responded to the 26000 block of East River Road to aid bail bond enforcement agents following an incident where a man backed into one of their vehicles. The individual, identified as 34-year-old Ryan M. Folger, reportedly displayed aggressive behavior and was armed with a pistol. However, he was eventually safely apprehended by the agents. Upon arrival, deputies placed Folger in handcuffs and retrieved a loaded black semiautomatic pistol from his possession. A background check on Folger...
SPOKANE VALLEY — A woman dropping a sock containing alleged illegal narcotics was arrested by deputies April 16. Tiarra A. Pedrazza, 34, was booked into the Spokane County Jail on two counts of knowingly possessing a controlled Substance and a felony warrant for second-degree burglary. She remained in jail on additional, unrelated charges of theft and violation of a domestic violence protection order. Records show her bond was set at $7,750. Pedrazza was arrested at about 10:40 p.m. after deputies responded to a call of...
FREEMAN — An April 23 special election for the Freeman School District has apparently failed. As of counting Thursday, April 25, the Proposition No. 1 only had support of 43.30% of voters casting ballots. The unofficial tally at press time was 747 votes in favor of the measure and 977, or 56.64%, opposed. The School District had been seeking voter approval of a three-year excess tax levy that would have started this year. Of the six voting precincts in the district, only voters in Precinct No. 9044 were supporting the...
SPOKANE VALLEY — A local man shoplifting a honeybun is being held in the Spokane County Jail on multiple cahrges. Mayger D. Jones, 23, is being held on $2,500 bond on charges of possession of a stolen firearm, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit and third-degree theft. His arrest came at about 7:35 p.m. April 22 after deputies responded to a call of a man walking round the WinCo Foods grocery store, 9718 E. Sprague Ave., with a gun on his hip, records show. The caller, a store employee, reported the man, later...
SPOKANE VALLEY — Deputies responding to a burglary call April 23 arrested a man found sleeping in vacant room. Malcolm J. Davis, 29, was arrested at about 9:15 a.m. at Hometown Studios, 12803 E. Sprague Ave., records show. He was booked into the Spokane County Jail on charges of second-degree burglary and third-degree malicious mischief, records show, noting he had also bonded out of jail in February for allegedly stealing a Braille phone from someone’s hand. As a result of the new arrest, his bond was revoked for the...
The Valley Christian track team was among more than 20 that competed Saturday, April 13, at the Van Kuren Invitational in Cheney. The Panthers finished 23rd overall in boys standings and 26th in girls. The boys 4X100 Relay team of Jediah Kuhn, Kade Mariner, Jack Siderius and Trenton Lartz finished 13th in 49.17...
SPOKANE VALLEY – The City Council convened on April 16 to deliberate on significant infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering the city’s transportation network. Both an ordinance and an agreement with Yellowstone Pipe Line Company about relocating their pipeline on Pines Road were unanimously approved after brief deliberations. “In amending Yellowstone Pipe Line Company’s franchise, we’re taking a crucial step to accommodate the City’s Pines Road Grade Separation Project,” remarked Tony Beattie, Senior...
SPOKANE VALLEY – A collision between a 2018 Dodge Ram 1500 and a 2017 Chevrolet Cruze on North Argonne Road resulted in the loss of one life and left another individual with serious injuries on April 12. Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies swiftly responded to the scene to conduct a thorough investigation. Eyewitness accounts and evidence collected at the site suggest that the Dodge Ram, driven by a man, was heading northbound, while the Chevrolet Cruze, operated by Amanda Fuller, 28, was traveling southbound on North...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Authorities are actively investigating an armed robbery that occurred at Crush Coffee on Sprague Avenue early in the morning of April 10. According to reports, employees of the coffee stand were confronted by a masked individual described as a white male wearing a dark hoodie. The suspect brandished a handgun and forcibly robbed the business, leaving the victims shaken and in shock. Deputies swiftly responded to the scene, while others combed the area in search of the perpetrator, who was last observed...
SPOKANE VALLEY – In the early hours of April 10, 2024, a Spokane Valley Deputy noticed a figure dressed entirely in black, zipping through parking lots and streets on an electric scooter without a proper headlamp. What began as a routine attempt to address a safety concern quickly escalated into a chase and apprehension. Spotting the individual, later identified as 29-year-old Bradley J. Luiten, in the 9300 block of E. Montgomery, the Deputy activated his emergency lights to signal a stop. Despite the presence of the...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies sprang into action on April 9, following an alert from Flock ALPR regarding a stolen vehicle reported missing the day prior. In the early hours of the morning, a Deputy spotted the reported stolen vehicle on E. Upriver Drive. Attempting to halt its progress, the Deputy activated emergency lights and siren as the vehicle approached N. Argonne Road. However, the suspect, later identified as 20-year-old James O. Dawson, disregarded the signals and accelerated, setting off...
A Valley Christian runner leads a Ridgeline competitor during the Van Kuren Invitational track meet Saturday, April 13, at Cheney High...
SPOKANE – As spring blooms across the Inland Northwest, garden enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the annual gardening expo hosted by Inland Empire Gardeners. Scheduled for May 11, and located at Spokane Community College, this year’s event promises to be a celebration of all things green under the theme “Happy Everything!” Founded in 1994, Inland Empire Gardeners has become a large part of the local gardening community, offering a platform for garden nurseries, specialty products, local craftspeople, and horticulture...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Two suspects, Shawn D. Cranford, 45, and Elissia M. York, 23, were apprehended on April 13 for their involvement in an armed robbery and auto theft at a parking lot on East Indiana Avenue at North Evergreen Road. Spokane Valley Deputies responded to the scene following a report from the female owner of a stolen black Chevrolet Tahoe and a male victim. They recounted arriving from Montana and leaving a nearby store when the incident occurred. The female victim was arranging items in the hatchback when the...
SPOKANE VALLEY – Spokane Valley deputies swiftly responded to a burglary in progress at the Spokane Valley Partners building, leading to the successful apprehension of a male suspect. The apprehended individual was identified as 42-year-old Justin W. Ingebritson, who exhibited signs of agitation upon discovery. This arrest comes in the wake of a previous burglary incident at the same nonprofit organization, suggesting a potential pattern of criminal behavior. The incident unfolded on April 16 around 3:00 am, when...
