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September 2024 Newsbriefs

 

Fig Tree Annual Meeting elects new board and officers

At its Annual Meeting in June, The Fig Tree elected board members and officers, and expressed gratitude for the service of board members whose terms ended.

New board members are Amy Cross of Millwood Community Presbyterian Church and Spokane Friends Church and Emily Clark of the Religious Studies Department at Gonzaga University.

Those stepping off the board are Wade Schwartz, who served eight years and has been treasurer; Dale Soden, who served three years and guided the board in strategic planning; Lauri Clark-Strait, who served 12 years and has been secretary, and Anastasia Wendlinder, who has served on the board 11 years, been moderator and assisted with the Eastern Washington Legislative Conference.

"We offer them our thanks for their faithful service, helping move The Fig Tree forward, expanding staff, support and outreach," said editor Mary Stamp.

Those continuing on the board are Gloria Aston Baynes, Nick Beamer, Marijke Fakasiieiki, Catherine Ferguson, David Gortner, Malcolm Haworth, Kaye Hult, Gary Jewell, Betty Krafft, Raymond Reyes and Mary Stamp. Officers are Gary, moderator, and Amy, vice moderator. With the retirement of Wade, who was treasurer, and the death of Tracey Waring who was just elected secretary, there will be an election for those positions at the Board meeting on Thursday, Sept. 5, on Zoom.

In addition, Mary also reported the deaths of Bart Preecs and Jay Ilch, who volunteered to help with deliveries, and Dru Powers, who was a volunteer editor.

The Fig Tree is in the process of recruiting new board members and volunteers. For information, call 535-4112 or email mary@thefigtree.org.

26 agencies join community partners

Rotary 21 Spokane recently granted The Fig Tree $1,500 for the Resource Directory to distribute free copies to vulnerable people throughout the Inland Northwest.

"We are grateful to all 26 partners who help us walk alongside marginalized communities in this region by granting funds to support the 200-page comprehensive annual directory," said Malcolm Haworth, Resource Directory editor.

Community partners featured on the directory cover are Banner Bank, Providence Health Services, Sisters of the Holy Names, Second Harvest, Gonzaga University, Molina Health, United Health, Washington State Human Rights Commission, Launch Northwest, Innovia Foundation, Empire Health Foundation, Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington.

Partners listed on the inside cover are Washington Trust Bank, Goodwill Industries, Eastern Washington University, Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels, Jasmin & Associates, Northwest Mediation Center, Pacific Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church, Liberty Park St Paul's United Methodist Church, YWCA Spokane, Northwest Intermountain Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Kiwanis Club of East Spokane and Downtown Kiwanis Club.

"People often tell me how the directory helped them end their addiction, find jobs, access food and settle in affordable housing," said Malcolm.

For information, visit call 535-4112 or visit thefigtree.org.

FAN launches 100% voting campaign

Faith Action Network (FAN), the state-wide multifaith partnership striving for just, compassionate and sustainable communities through advocacy and public action, recently launched a new "100% Voting Faith Communities (VFC)" campaign.

This non-partisan campaign encourages the faith communities to collectively commit to reaching out so there is 100 percent voter turnout of eligible participants in their congregations.

It also encourages efforts to educate, register and get out the vote in the wider community.

"With so much at stake, it is an important year to ensure that faith communities honor the sacred privilege of voting in a democracy," said Brianna Dilts, Eastern Washington FAN organizer.

FAN is providing tools and resources for 100% Voting Faith Communities to "faithfully engage in the electoral process," she said, adding that "an important part of faithful engagement is remaining non-partisan."

FAN does not endorse political parties or candidates and expects faith committees to abide by the IRS rules for religious organizations.

For information, email fan@fanwa.org or visit fanwa.org/advocacy/voting-civic-engagement.

GU professor gives climate institute lecture

Bi Zhao, assistant professor of political science at Gonzaga University, will share "Who Tells Your Story? Framing of Climate Change by Women and Indigenous Peoples at the United Nations" at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Gonzaga University Hemmingson Auditorium and by livestream, as part of the Institute for Climate, Water, and the Environment's for Our Common Home Lecture Series.

Bi received her doctoral degree in political science from Purdue University and has published in the Journal of Human Rights, Environmental Policy and Governance. She will discuss the impact civil society organizations (CSO) have as actors in global climate governance.

In 1992, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change founded the Conference of the Parties (COPs), as venues for CSOs to define the meaning of climate change, leading to many framing it as a social justice issue that intersects with gender inequality and indigenous peoples' rights.

She will focus on ways civil society groups develop and frame self-representation and crossover-representation. Her research includes non-state actors in global climate change governance and translational human rights advocacy, especially the role and participation of historically marginalized peoples in climate change politics and policy making.

For information, visit gonzaga.edu/climate-institute.

NAACP plans annual Freedom Fund Gala

Spokane NAACP Freedom Fund Gala Ticket sale starts in September. The Gala will be from 7 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 9. at Double Tree Hotel, 322 N Spokane Falls Blvd.

Its annual local branch fundraiser supports a scholarship fund for local high school students entering higher education.

The dinner enables Spokane NAACP to further its mission to fight against the assault on civil and human rights. It will recognize achievements of individuals and entities who have contributed to the fight for civil and human rights and have laid the foundation to ensure justice and equity for future generations.

Pre-sale for tickets is Sept. 1 to Oct. 1.

For information naacpspokane.com.

Dances of Universal Peace raises awareness

Spokane's Dances of Universal Peace (DUP) continues a more than 30-year tradition of sharing contemporary community dance practice to raise personal awareness and peace through singing and dancing. It is held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., on second and fourth Thursdays at Unity Spiritual Center, 2900 S. Bernard.

"The dances come from diverse world cultures and faiths, employing ancient cultures and spiritual traditions. In a typical dance gathering, one or more dance leaders guide the dance circle accompanied by live musicians," said Mark Kreilkamp, DUP organizer.

The dance leader tells the story, teaches the melody and movements of the dance, and directs the music and the flow. There are thousands of songs and dances adapted or compiled from around the world in the Dances of Universal Peace dance database.

Mantras, prayers and chants in the repertoire foster joy, harmony, unity and peace, Mike said. The main themes are love, trust and compassion towards nature, the universe and life.

Samuel Lewis began Universal Dances of Peace in California in the late 1960s, mentored by Ruth St. Denis, modern dance pioneer.

The Dances of Universal Peace network spread to the USA, Latin America and Europe. Currently, dance circles are held in almost 50 countries and more than 1,200 dance leaders from 30 countries worldwide share dances.

For information, call 714-1770 or check the Spokane Dances of Universal Peace Facebook page.

Sravasti gives series on transforming troubles

Buddhist nuns from Sravasti Abbey will give a series of talks on "Transform Your Troubles" at CREATE Arts Center in Newport from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Mondays Sept. 9 through 30.

The presenters, Venerables Thubten Lamsel, Thubten Dekyi, and Thubten Monlam, have trained with the Abbey's founder—teacher and author, Venerable Thubten Chodron.

They will address issues for people who feel stuck or overwhelmed by difficulties in their lives or problems in the world. They will share practices to help people achieve peace of mind and transform problems into opportunities for growth, including some meditation and mind-training practices that change perspective and open hearts in the face of challenges.

Sessions will include a short, guided meditation to settle the mind, followed by a talk, and some time for group discussion.

For information, call 447-5549 or visit sravastiabbey.org/events.

Disciples pastor leads retreat on mysticism

Ruth Fletcher, an ordained minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is facilitating a retreat called "A Hitchhiker's Guide to Christian Mysticism" from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 14, at Harmony Woods Retreat Center, 11507 S. Keeney Rd., in Spokane.

For 40 years, Ruth has nurtured transformation in individuals and systems through teaching and spiritual leadership. She addresses: "What is the tradition of mysticism? How does the Spirit communicate? How can we connect with the Spirit within?" 

Throughout her life she has trained leaders, facilitated personal growth retreats, accompanied congregations through change, encouraged imagination, keynoted conferences, preached and led worship, coached pastors, and designed processes for systemic revitalization.

Ruth received her doctor of ministry degree from the School of Theology at Claremont and has authored resources regarding peace education, congregational discernment and the role of the eldership in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Her most recent book is entitled Thrive: Spiritual Habits of Transforming Congregations.

For information, visit ruthafletcher.com.

SNAP hosts Pajama Party to collect clothing

SNAP is hosting its second annual Pajama Party 3:30 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 14 at Brick West Brewing Co, 1318 W. First.  Attendees are invited to bring new pajamas, hats, gloves, socks and hand warmers to help vulnerable neighbors this winter.  Event activities include food, music, photo booth, face painting, cotton candy, games and more. Those who donate will be eligible for numerous prizes.

For information, visit snapwa.org/pajama-party.

Coalition holds Democracy Summit

Asian and Pacific Islander Coalition of Washington holds its Democracy Summit, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, Sept. 27 at the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall.

The event will include a gubernatorial candidate forum, keynote speakers and cultural performances to engage Asian and Pacific Islander communities in the political process related to issues that matter to them. Asians for Collective Liberation in Spokane will provide bus and carpool transportation to the event.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/2024apicdemsummit.

Creole Resources holds Back-to-School event

Creole Resources, a nonprofit empowering the Haitian community in Spokane County, provides essential resources, promotes cultural integration and fosters a sense of belonging among Haitians and French speakers.

They are collecting in-kind donations, gift cards and sponsorships to purchase school supplies, backpacks and hygiene products to give to children and families at a Back-to-School event Saturday, Sept. 28, to support BIPOC children, said Elaine Sicilia, coordinator.

Donations may be dropped off at 1831 E. Mission Ave. or 19 E. Queen Ave., Suite 300, from 9 to 2 p.m.

For information, text 981-5595 or visit creoleresources.com.

YWCA plans Racial Justice Challenge

YWCA Spokane announces its annual Racial Justice Challenge, a virtual series to inspire collective action, foster dialogue and drive positive change toward racial equity and justice.

The challenge will be Sept 9 to 20, shared through email for registered participants and then shared online.

The 10-day learning event will offer daily prompts via email and online.

This year's topics include Bodily Autonomy, Financial Empowerment, Gun Violence and Transportation.

Daily curated activities, readings and reflection prompts will be sent to participants to deepen their understanding of racial justice issues.

For information, visit ywcaspokane.org/challenge.

People Who Care Luncheon is Oct. 15

Transitions' 2024 People Who Care Luncheon will be from noon to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the Davenport Grand Hotel, 333 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.

Transitions' annual fundraiser will gather people to donate, said Jessica Burke, director of development. She is inviting people to host tables and be sponsor.

Transitions offers licensed childcare through EduCare, permanent supportive housing units with Home Yard Cottages, transitional housing for nine women at Miryam's House, job training in food services at New Leaf Kitchen and Café, transitional housing at the Transitional Living Center and a safe space for women at Women's Hearth.

For information, call 328-6702 option 2 or email jburke@help4women.org.

Church supplies milk to 2nd Harvest from dairy in Utah

With increasing costs hard for families, Second Harvest Inland Northwest welcomes partners to meet the demand for food.

An Aug. 15 delivery of 1,080 cases of 2% milk from the church's dairy farm in Utah was gifted to Second Harvest by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said Jennifer Hicks, the church's regional communication director.

"Milk is a wonderful way to provide protein, calcium and other essential nutrients, especially for kids and seniors," said Drew Meuer, president of Second Harvest.

"The Church of Jesus Christ is happy to support the work of Second Harvest. A much-needed donation of 24 pallets of milk was provided from one of our dairy farms," said Timothy Cobb, president of the Spokane Stake.

For information, call 270-4950.

Area health organizations promote 'Be Well WA' initiative

On Aug 16, Washington Secretary of Health Umair Shah and partners from Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD), YMCA, Parasport Spokane, MultiCare Inland Northwest, Greater Spokane Incorporated and Spokane Public Schools unveiled "Be Well WA" in Eastern Washington at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.

"Be Well WA" is a new initiative that transforms the state's approach to health for Washingtonians, recognizing that since the pandemic, many struggle with health and wellbeing.

"Be Well WA" promotes movement, emotional wellbeing, nourishment and social connection.

For information, visit bewellwa.org or srhd.org.

Riverkeeper, The Lands Council plan cleanups and other events

Spokane Riverkeeper is planning several fall events for people to give back to the Spokane River.

The Upriver Scrub and Great Spokane River Cleanup is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept 14, throughout the Spokane Valley.

On the same day, The Lands Council will hold its 21st Annual Spokane River Clean Up at High Bridge in Spokane.

"Volunteers will pick up trash, which will not only boost the natural beauty of the area but also improve the environmental health and safety of our river. This event is a great way for anyone to get outside in the fresh air and make a difference in the Spokane community," said Audrey Wartinger, communications coordinator with The Lands Council.

Spokane Riverkeeper partners with naturalists Bea and Jim Harrison of the Spokane Audubon Society for an early evening walk along the Spokane River to see birds along the way and carry bags to pick up litter as part of River Cleanup Walk and Talk #7, from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 18.

There will be a Meet and Greet Happy Hour from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23, at Indigenous Eats.

On Saturday, Oct. 5, Spokane Riverkeeper and 350 Spokane will join in a seven-mile, easy, educational bike ride from 1 to 4 p.m., on the Centennial Trail along the Spokane River, beginning at the No-LiBrewhouse parking lot.

For information, call 464-7614 or visit spokaneriverkeeper.org.

St. James Episcopal in Pullman hosts 'Icons in Transformation'

"Icons in Transformation," an exhibit by contemporary icon artist Ludmila Pawlowska, is on display from Sept. 15 to Nov. 6 at St. James Episcopal Church, 1410 NE Stadium Way in Pullman.

Ludmila uses three-dimensional sculpture/paintings, different materials and abstract motifs to express religious themes.

Now living in Sweden, she grew up in Kazakhstan and earned a master of fine arts in textiles and painting at Moscow's Kalinin Art Academy.

"Art connects the concrete world—LIFE—and the illusory one," she said, adding that her works over 45 years reflect "splashes of emotions of despair, suffering, delight and recklessness, along with the movement of love, spirituality and time."

The free 100-piece exhibit presents the mystery and spiritual power of icons through her art and traditional icons on loan from the Vasilevsky Monastery in Suzdal, Russia.

St. James will host five events in conjunction with the exhibit.

 • Icon writer and teacher Father Damian Higgins will speak at 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 27.

• "Art Inspired Writing," a workshop led by Jeff Jones, will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 5.

• Ukrainian stories and songs will be presented by the folk group Gefilte Trout, Julie Wieck and Friends from 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 6.

• The Palouse Choral Society will give a concert from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 13.

• Mary Flerchinger will speak on "Iconography: A Glimpse into Heaven" from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 27.

The exhibit is also open for viewing from 1 to 4 p.m., Sundays; 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesdays, and 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays.

"I am honored to bring this international exhibition to Pullman," said Linda Young, rector at St. James. "Icon writing (painting) is enjoying a resurgence. Attendees—whatever their spiritual background—will find art that touches the heart, mind and soul."

The "Icons in Transformation" exhibit was made possible through a gift from the late John Brewer, a retired Washington State University professor, longtime St. James member and supporter of the arts on the Palouse.

For information, call 332-1742, email office@stjamespullman.org or visit ludmilapawlowska.se.

For a group tour, contact: IconPullman2024@gmail.com.

FāVs launches 'Spiritual Landscapes' series exploring Inland NW religions

FāVS News launches a "Spiritual Landscapes: Exploring Inland Northwest Religions" series, starting with Buddhism. It runs from Aug. 29 to Sept. 29

The hybrid program delves into the diverse religions that shape the Inland Northwest. The first course focuses on various Buddhist practices and hearing from local Buddhist communities.

Speakers will discuss Buddhism in online sessions and then attendees will gather together for a field trip to experience a local Buddhist house of worship.

Upcoming sessions are at 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 5, online with Sravasti Abbey; Sept. 12 at the Spokane Zen Center, and Sept. 19 online with Soul Center.

The field trip begins at 10:30 a.m., Sept. 28, at the Spokane Buddhist Temple, 927 S. Perry.

The hybrid event will look at Buddhism traditions and modern-day Buddhist practices. It is an opportunity to broaden understanding of Buddhism in the Inland Northwest.

For information, visit favs.news/favs-news-launches-spiritual-landscapes-series-starting-with-buddhism.

Family Promise centralizes its programs

Family Promise of Spokane, which uses a trauma-informed approach while keeping focus on the families in its programs, has centralized its programs at 2002 E. Mission Ave.

To keep supporting families amid budget cuts from public and private sources, the program move the administrative team out of their office at 2322 E Sprague to its emergency shelter.

"This shift also gives us a central hub where all our resources are easily accessible to our guests and the community," said Joe Ader, executive director. "It allows us to be in the same space," he explained.

"We are grateful for our volunteers who made this move possible, the flexibility of staff during this transition and the strength of our guests," he said.

Along with grants, the Family Promise monthly donor program, Homer's Helpers, provides ongoing support to guests.

Recently on Facebook it anounced that Family Promise has housed more families from January to August 2024 than it did in 2023. Already it has housed 106 families this year. with about three familiesmoving into housing each week.

For information, call 747-5487 or visit familypromiseofspokane.org.

New building expands AHANA's capacity

The Multi-Ethnic Business Association, (AHANA) has relocated to the University District for its operations and small business services, acquiring a building at 327 E. Pacific through organization funds, private fundraising and grant funds.

Along with offices for staff, there are small business incubator offices and a training room. It can be used for small business workshops, community meetings, meet-and-greet receptions and board meetings.

In April, AHANA stakeholders and board members named a section of the building Peter Stanton Hall to honor the executive chairman of Washington Trust Bank for his support of their mission to educate and develop opportunities for area multi-ethnic and multicultural businesses and nonprofits. Peter, who followed AHANA since it formed, hopes the building will advance its work with small businesses.

AHANA's vice president, Mike Spencer, said the building will enhance Spokane's BIPOC and underrepresented, underserved business communities.

Several presented gifts of appreciation from their cultures—a Kum Kum blessing, a red dot on the forehead from Spokane's South Asian Indian community, a Quran from the Spokane Islamic Center and a ceremonial staff from the Maasai community.

Jeff McMorris of Spokane County said the ARPA grant will help AHANA with nonprofit capacity-building and allow it to make investments it can apply to purchasing the building.

Juliette Sinisterra, CEO of the University District, said, "AHANA's mission and support of underserved and underrepresented business start-ups is in alignment with our U Vision 2044 and our values. The University District looks forward to partnership with AHANA."

AHANA board chair and attorney Francis Adewale stated, "This building is the first step in our plan to infuse the Spokane U-District with a multicultural and international enterprise hub. We will highlight contributions of diverse communities to the development by building a multi-story international market center that celebrates diversity, unity and inclusion in our region."

Ben Cabildo, who founded AHANA in 1998 to support multi-ethnic business owners and professionals, is still involved.

For information, call 503-1024 ext. 140 or email office@ahana-meba.org.

Habitat-Spokane plans Veterans Build

Habitat for Humanity-Spokane is looking for individuals and groups to join its first official Veterans Build, scheduled for Sept. 11 to 14, in Deer Park.

Habitat-Spokane invites everyone, especially those who have a connection to the veteran and military community, to join in building homes, community and hope, said Michelle Girardot, executive director.

A Habitat International-supported initiative, Veterans Build offers camaraderie as hundreds of community members work alongside Habitat families to build safe, healthy, affordable homes.

Habitat has celebrated with more than 9,000 vets and their families who partnered with the organization to improve their housing since 2013, said Gloria Penaflor, volunteer and faith community outreach manager.

For information, call gloria at 824-2595 or email gpenaflor@habitat-spokane.org or dana at 530-0660 or dleroy@habitat-spokane.org.

Myrtle Woldson Center announces season

The Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center opened in 2019 as a beacon for the arts in Spokane.

It is partnering with Gonzaga Dance with its theme, "Dance Lives Here," to premiere a series of dance performances by West Coast dance companies for productions that feature a blend of classical and contemporary-style choreography and storytelling through the art of dance.

Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center kicks off its 2024-25 Season with performances, starting on Sept. 22 with Grammy winners and jazz legends like Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap and running through April 5, 2025.

• The October performance is "BodyTraffic."

• Dec. 14 to 15 will be "Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico!"

• Jan. 22 is "Jazz" with Bridgewater and Charlap, New York's Jazz at Lincoln Center, New Orleans Songbook and ODC Dance: Mixed Repertory.

• Feb. 7 includes "ODC Dance: The Velveteen Rabbit" and international cabaret siren and comedian "MeowMeow."

• March is National Endowment for the Arts jazz master Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, 123 Andres and Alonzo King "LINES Ballet: Deep River."

• April draws actors from the London Stage performing "Hamlet."

For information, call 313-2787 or visit gonzaga.edu/myrtle-woldson-performing-arts-center/presents.

YMCA Welcoming Week- Belonging Begins With Us


The YMCA is hosting Welcoming Week as a chance for neighbors—both immigrants and U.S.-born residents—to get to know one another and celebrate what unites them as a community. Activities include ethnic food samples from Feast World Kitchen, desserts from Christ Kitchen, kids crafts and youth sport activities, family activities and open swim. A three-month "Welcome Here" YMCA membership is being offered for new refugee families with passport or ID.
Activities will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 19, at the Central Spokane YMCA, 930 N Monroe St.

For information, visit ymcainw.org/events/welcome-week-2024.

 

 

 
Copyright@ The Fig Tree, September 2024
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