Senator Maria Cantwell is visiting Spokane Saturday to discuss how heating cuts could affect Spokane families.

According to a new proposal, 41,000 Washington residents could lose critical heating funding to other states.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep more than 100,000 Washington houses warm through the cold months.

When visitors at the Spokane County Elections Office step past the office main lobby, they go through a set of obstacles that ensure the safety of ballots. They sign in with their name, organization and time, but the further they enter the facility, the obstacles change.

When entering another room, all pens except for green pens are removed. The sign in sheet is littered with names from party affiliates in green pens. Some of them are election observers.

It’s an all day affair for some. Alene Lindstrand says it’s not very exciting, but it’s important.

Students from Central Valley High School’s AP government classes are getting a lesson in event planning and politics. With the guidance of their instructor, Bill Gilchrist, they’re planning “Rally in the Valley”, a debate of issues for Spokane Valley candidates and the Spokane Valley residents they hope will vote for them.

“It has not been easy,” Gilchrist explained. He continued, “There have been some obstacles, but it shows perseverance and even courage. You have to constantly look for solutions.”

One student, Drew Brown, ASB president, said politicians are the challenge.