This day in history Environmentalist made bold prediction on cars king of bootleggers arrested as teachers flock to Spokane

The Spokane Daily Chronicle reported on April 8, 1925, regarding Charley Dale, the "King of the Bootleggers," who was indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to violate Prohibition laws. Accused of supplying moonshine to the Atlantic Bar, Dale's arrest was notably influenced by a tip from his own confederates, who felt betrayed after he failed to honor promises of legal protection. Concurrently, Spokane prepared to welcome over 2,000 teachers for the 27th annual meeting of the Inland Empire Education Association, highlighting the region's commitment to education. Fast forward to 1975, environmental leader David Brower delivered a provocative prediction in Spokane, suggesting that by 1990, fewer than 20% of cars would remain on the road compared to the present. Brower argued this shift would result from prioritizing food production over fossil fuel use, given agriculture's growing dependence on oil products.

His foresight about the necessity of reducing fossil fuel reliance proved accurate, though the drastic decline in cars did not occur as anticipated. The article illustrates the rich tapestry of Spokane's history, showcasing both its challenges and aspirations. The convergence of these events reflects broader societal shifts in attitudes toward law, education, and environmentalism.