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Nameless Plaza is Now ‘Spokane Tribal Gathering Place’

Paige Browning
/
Spokane Public Radio

The city council voted unanimously Monday night to name the plaza outside city hall the Spokane Tribal Gathering Place. Its subtitle, ‘the Place Where Salmon is Prepared’, is what Spokane tribal members historically called the spot. 

Since the plaza and adjacent park were dedicated in May, the naming has become less about the plaza, and more about honoring people who have impacted Spokane. So, council president Ben Stuckart also announced plans to honor three other Spokanites.

Stuckart: “John Moyer was a beloved resident of Spokane, therefore the city council recommends to name the Post Street Bridge the John Moyer Memorial Bridge. And whereas King Cole was instrumental in the development of Riverfront Park, therefor the city council pledges to work with the Spokane Park Board to create an appropriate memorial in Riverfront Park.”

The city will honor a third man, musician Som Jordan who died last year, by creating a Som Jordan music festival and permanent stage.

In public testimony one woman shared that a Jordan stage would be a great idea, while others pushed for the plaza to be named after John Moyer. Overall, testimony was mostly in support of the dedications.

The plaza outside city hall overlooks the falls in the Spokane River.

Copyright 2014 Spokane Public Radio

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