Jase Picanso

Lilac City Roller Derby members scrimmage during a recent practice at Pattison’s North. Young Kwak photo At first glance, roller derby can look intimidating: fast skaters, hard hits and plenty of bruises. But spend a few minutes with Lilac City Roller Derby and you’ll find a community where anyone, regardless of gender, size or experience, can lace up a pair of skates and step onto the rink. One moment, skaters are mapping out their next move while hitting the track at 25 to 30 mph.

Spokane-raised author Karen Loomis, who writes as K.A. Gilmore. Courtesy photos Spokane-raised author Karen Loomis spent much of her childhood believing that hard work could overcome any barriers she faced. Growing up in Spokane during the 1970s and ’80s, Loomis — who writes under the pen name K.A. Gilmore — was one of only a few Black students in school. At the time, the city’s population was less than 2% African American.

Lilac City Early Learning Center owner Colleen Condon outside Balboa Elementary School, where her staff will provide childcare. Young Kwak photo For many Spokane families, finding childcare has become a balancing act between long waitlists, limited availability and monthly costs that rival rent. As prices continue to climb, advocates say the childcare shortage has grown beyond a family issue into an economic challenge affecting employers and the broader workforce.