Christ Lutheran Church has hired certified teacher Holly Moro to assist in Homework Helpers, an after-school program. Here, she helps Summit sixth-grader Lauren Walker (back to camera) with a math problem as first-graders Kate Walker, left, and Taylor Looker watch. SR photo/J. Bart Rayniak

Monday again. Why does it come so soon? At any rate, it's time for the highlights from Saturday's Valley Voice. Christ Lutheran Church on Broadway has started a Homework Helpers club to offer free tutoring after school every Tuesday. Kids seem eager to come and it's not just the cookies that has them coming in the door.

Students at Centennial Middle School used their Sprit Week to raise money for a classmate with a medical issue. Spokane Valley city councilman Bill Gothmann has filed paperwork to run for re-election in November. He's the first candidate to announce his campaign.

In case you missed it, reporter John Craig had a story Saturday on the process underway to fill the senate seat of Bob McCaslin, who is also a Spokane Valley city council member. McCaslin is reportedly upset about the candidates that were selected for consideration.  

Also, just a reminder that tomorrow is the last day to mail your ballots in the Central Valley bond election.

There's nothing particularly fascinating about trash, but it's something that has to be dealt with. Reporter John Craig has a story in today's paper about the ongoing dispute between local governments about what happens next for the Spokane Regional Solid Waste System. There are arguments over who will own and operate the Waste to Engergy Plant, who will have a say in the decision making and how much customers will be charged to dispose of waste.

A Solid Waste Summit is scheduled for Feb. 2 and 3. Elected representatives from every jurisdiction in Spokane County are expected to attend, including the Spokane Valley city council members. Spokane Valley could have a key role to play in what happens depending on what the council members decide to do. It doesn't sound like this issue will go away any time soon, so take a look at John's story to learn more about the issue.