Spokane CDA Living December 2015 by Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living

Holiday Wish List 2015

DECEMBER 2015 #121 â&#x20AC;˘ $3.95 (DISPLAY UNTIL JAN 15, 2016)

w w w.spok anecda.com

Cell Tower Navigating The Upside of Battles Retirement Living Downsizing

12/15 FEATURES DE CE MBE R 2 0 1 5 | V1 7 : I SSUE 1 1 (1 2 1 )

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HOLIDAY WISH LIST

You may not have time for a visit to Santa, to tell him what you want for Christmas this year, but you do have time to flip through these pages and check out some of our best local gift ideas. Go ahead, drop a hint by dogearring the page and leaving it out for someone to see.

8 6

UPSIDE OF DOWNSIZING If “downsizing” brings to mind small, cramped and tight spaces in a basic-todull design, let yourself be corrected. A local retiree shows how she downsized into one of the most design-savvy, light and airy homes we’ve seen. Take a look!

1 1 0

CELL TOWER BATTLES We all love our cell phones, but they come at the cost of unsightly towers, often right in the middle of neighborhoods. There is nothing that can be done to avoid those modern day telephone poles. Or is there? Patricia Hansen has waged - and temporarily won - a batte on cell towers.

CELL

TOWER BATTLES

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

CONTENTS WHAT’S INSIDE 16

Editor’s Letter

Retirement Living

Powerful Thoughts

Navigating the many choices of retirement living

Readers Respond What you had to say about recent issues of the magazine

First Look and Buzz City Trek; Lilacs & Lemons; Spokane by the Numbers

People Pages People of Spokane, out and about

104

Homestyles Do organized homes exist? They do, and here is how to get one

106

Real Estate Selling your home in the winter

116

Automotive Autonomous cars

122

Business Closeups

Local businesses with a story

Get ready to “Journey to the North Pole!”

Local Cuisine

The Scene

Book Reviews Must reads with local connections

Datebook What to put on your calendar

125

Setting the Big Table. Spokane’s restaurant and hospitality ministry

128

Restaurant Reviews The Blackbird; Shogun

137

Dining Guide

Where to chow down in town

Nicolle Tonasket tells us what she knows

Signature Dish

What I Know

Health Beat Spokane Health & Fitness Expo; Holiday Health; Winter Warmth

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

143

Churchill’s Cowboy Cut Ribeye

145

Liquid Libations Local Hard Cider

0.9

* G N I C N A N APR FI AS

Thank you Spokane! Voted Best New Car Dealership & Best Used Car Dealership

W HO E N T C E L E S ON

NEW 2015 HONDA

ACCORD A239 MONTH $

MSRP: $23,725 • SALE PRICE: $21,995 • DN PAYMENT: $1,999 *2015 Accord LX, 4-door Automatic. Stock # 27847. MSRP: $23,725, Sale Price: $21,995, $2,995 due at signing. $189/mo. for 36 mos. lease, 12K miles/yr, plus lic. tax, neg. $150 doc fee.

NEW 2015 HONDA

CRV

269 A MONTH $

MSRP: $25,575 • SALE PRICE: $24,495 • DN PAYMENT: $3,695 *2015 CR-V LX AWD, 4-door Automatic. Stock # 27969. MSRP: $25,575, Sale Price: $24,495, $2,199 due at signing. $209/mo. for 36 mos. lease, 12K miles/yr, plus lic. tax, neg. $150 doc fee.

NEW 2015 HONDA

(509) 353-4700

1105 W. 3rd Ave | Spokane www.larryhmillerhondaspokane.com

CIVIC

209

A MONTH

MSRP: $20,110 • SALE PRICE: $18,995 • DN PAYMENT: $2,499 *2015 Civic LX, 4-door Automatic. Stock # 27805. MSRP: $20,110, Sale Price: $18,995, $2,499 due at signing. $149/mo. for 36 mos. lease, 12K miles/yr, plus lic. tax, neg. $150 doc fee.

*All payments are 36 months, 12000 miles a year OAC with American Honda Financial Services. See dealer for details. Offers are good until 12/31/15

EDITORIAL

The Difference

Editor in Chief Blythe Thimsen blythe@spokanecda.com

Marketing Editor

Robin Bishop

robin@spokanecda.com

Copy Editor

Rachel Sandall (Pia Longinotti, guest copy editor)

Datebook Editor

Ann Foreyt

ann@spokanecda.com

Food Editor

Katie Collings Nichol

katie@spokanecda.com

ART Creative Director/Lead Graphics Kristi Somday kristi@spokanecda.com

Graphic Designer/Traffic Manager Camille Martin camille@spokanecda.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Makenna Haeder

James & Kathy Mangis

Rick Singer Photography

CONTRIBUTORS Robin Bishop Kate Derrick Paul Haeder Sarah Hauge Chris Lozier Laurie L. Ross Justin Rundle

Nicole Sheets Nicole Stewart

Chris Street Cara Strickland Nicolle Tonasket David Vahala Julia Zurcher

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Emily Guevarra Bozzi

emily@spokanecda.com

SALES | MARKETING Vice President - Sales Cindy Guthrie

cindy@bozzimedia.com

Senior Account Manager Jeff Richardson jrichardson@bozzimedia.com

Account Managers Erin Meenach erin@bozzimedia.com Julie Lilienkamp julie@bozzimedia.com Christine King christine@bozzimedia.com

OPERATIONS Accounts Receivable & Distribution Theresa Berglund theresa@spokanecda.com

Publisher & CEO Vincent Bozzi vince@bozzimedia.com

C0-Publisher/Co-Founder

Emily Guevarra Bozzi

emily@bozzimedia.com

Find us on

180 S. Howard

509.468.2929 12

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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BEST OF THE INLAND NW SINCE 1999

Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living is published ten times per year by Northwest Best Direct, Inc., dba Bozzi Media, 104 S. Freya St. Ste. 209, Spokane, WA 99202-4866, (509) 533-5350, fax (509) 535-3542. Contents Copyrighted© 2012-2015 Northwest Best Direct, Inc., all rights reserved. Subscription $20 for one year. For article reprints of 50 or more, call ahead to order. See our “Contact Us!” page for more details.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

E.L.Stewart Versatile Expressive

LIVE WITH ART YOU LOVE This original painting can be seen and purchased at the Nectar Tasting Room through November. Happy Holidays!

www.elstewart.com painter@elstewart.com (509) 327-2456 14

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

CONTACT US Spokane Coeur d’ Alene Living is published twelve times a year. If you have any questions or comments regarding the magazine, please call us at (509) 533-5350; we want to hear from you. Visit our Web site for an expanded listing of services: www.spokanecda.com. Letters to the Editor: We are always looking for comments about our recent articles. Your opinions and ideas are important to us; however, we reserve the right to edit your comments for style and grammar. Please send your letters to the editor to the address at the bottom of the page or to blythe@spokanecda. com.

Why-We-Live-Here photos: On the last page of each issue, we publish a photo that depicts the Inland Northwest and why we live here. We invite photographers to submit a favorite slide or transparency. If you want your photo returned, please enclose an SASE with your submission. Story submissions: We’re always looking

for new stories. If you have an idea for one, please let us know by submitting your idea to the editor.

Datebook: Please submit information to ann@ spokanecda.com at least three months prior to the event. Fundraisers, gallery shows, plays, concerts, where to go and what to do and see are welcome.

Dining Guide: This guide is an overview of fine and casual restaurants for residents and visitors to the region. For more information about the Dining Guide, email blythe@ spokanecda.com. BUZZ: If you have tips on what’s abuzz in the region, contact the editor at blythe@ spokanecda.com.

Advertising: Reach out to the consumer in the Inland Northwest and get the word out about your business or products. Take advantage of our vast readership of educated, upper income homeowners and advertise with Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living. For more information, call the sales manager at (509) 533-5350.

Fundraisers: Your group can receive $8 for each $19 subscription sold. Contact the circulation director at (509) 533-5350. Custom Reprints: We can adapt your article or ads and print them separately, without other advertising, and add new information. With our logo on your piece, your professionallydesigned handout on heavy gloss paper will be a handsome edition to your sales literature. Contact us at (509) 533-5350. Custom Publishing: Create a magazine tailored to fit the needs and character of your business or organization. Ideal for promotions, special events, introduction of new services and/or locations, etc. Our editorial staff and designers will work closely with you to produce a quality publication. Copy, purchasing and distribution: To purchase back issues, reprints or to inquire about distribution areas, please contact the magazine at: Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living, Tapio Yellow Flag Bldg., 104 S. Freya St., Ste. 209, Spokane, WA 99202-4866, (509) 533-5350.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Powerful Thoughts

HEN THE LIGHTS FLICKERED OUT AT 5:23 p.m. on Tuesday evening, I thought it was par for the course on a dark, stormy evening. Dinner had just been prepared and was still hot when the lights extinguished, so my grandma, mom and I lit candles in my mom’s living room and dined by candlelight. A rich beef stew with fresh vegetables and potatoes was accompanied by a crisp green salad highlighted with pomegranate seeds. Nutritious and delicious. Ha! Having no power wasn’t so bad. Once dinner was finished, I started to feel an oncoming restlessness I didn’t anticipate. It was one week before deadline for the magazine, which is one of my busiest weeks, with evenings usually spent working. I had research to do, articles to write, stories to edit and emails to follow up on. With no power, light or Internet access, I felt a bit lost. “What do I do?” I thought to myself. Perhaps more surprising than the length of the power outage at my house (seven days for me!) was the impact I felt when all power was taken away. In a world where I have trained myself to always be doing something, I suddenly could do almost nothing. Subconsciously I have convinced myself that sitting, relaxing and resting are things for which to feel guilty. After all, if I want to succeed in this world, I need to be constantly moving, never slowing down and never sitting in silence! Yet, that is exactly what the storm forced me to do. Sitting in the quiet of the house, I tucked away the to-do list in my mind, giving a sigh of resignation, followed by one of acceptance, that nothing was going to get done that night. I thought about people who lived before electricity was readily available to all. How different their world must have been. Once the sun went down, their lives slowed down to a more relaxed pace. They talked, they gathered by the fire and read, and they went to bed early. All of those things are in some way discouraged in this fast-paced world of do more, get more, be more. When the mantra is “produce, produce, produce,” it feels lazy to slow down. The storm brought forced down time. On the night of the 16

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

storm, I put my feet up on the couch, grabbed a flashlight and got caught up on my reading, resting in the comfortable silence inside, listening to the wind rage outside. An early bedtime beckoned. Preferring it to be cool when I sleep, having no heat wasn’t too big of a deal. Flannel pajamas on, down comforter and two quilts heaped atop me, I nestled in a cozy bed and slept soundly, unaware of the damage being done to houses nearby. I woke up refreshed and peeked out the window to see blue skies overhead. The great storm was over! I assumed the power would be back on in a few hours. Only a few stray branches and twigs here and there, greeted me right outside the door, but no big damage. Then I started to look around. Four houses on the block had massive structural damage from fallen trees, which made them uninhabitable. One of them soon would have a condemned notice in the window, and massive tarps on the roof and exterior wall. My house was safe, so I couldn’t dare complain about no light, heat or power, yet, as the days wore on, the romance of living by candlelight was fading (even though everyone looks fabulous in candlelight!). Limited access to Internet made finishing this issue of the magazine difficult, driving my stress level higher. As the grocery stores stayed shut, and perishable items were pulled from the shelves at most of the nearby open stores, I shifted to a grotesque diet of packaged foods, eating an entire box of Pop Tarts for every breakfast that week. Finally, I gave in when the house temperature got to 46, and relocated to my sister’s fully powered house. With four kids, six adults and two dogs descending on her, I named her home The Refugee Ranch. It was cozy, with us tripping over one another, the washer running all day, the crockpot full, pots simmering on the stove, and the door opening and closing every few minutes. In the midst of the inconvenience, there was a silver lining. Our family was together in a way we hadn’t been before. My nieces were giggling in the kitchen. We sat, we laughed, we talked. We slowed down. The magazine deadline suddenly didn’t seem so important, as my niece and I peeled potatoes together, and all the girls had a nail painting party in the living room. The experience also made me see with a painful glare how blessed my life is. Sure, no power, heat or lights for one week is tough, but what about those people who face life this way every day, not knowing where they will sleep at night or how they will stay warm? Being inconvenienced for a week is one thing, living a life of continual uncertainty is another. So, as I checked the Avista site hourly, wondering when the power would come back on; as I wedged myself into a crowded house and lived as modern day refugee, and as I slowed down, I was reminded of how blessed I am. Blessed that the lights do come back on for me. Blessed that I have a family with which to be crowded together. Blessed that I know where my heat and power are coming from, and blessed that I’ve never had to go without. Sometimes it takes a powerful storm to blow everything away to remind you of how much you already have. May you have a blessed holiday season full of love, joy, peace and power!

READERS RESPOND WHAT YOU HAD TO SAY awake far too early for comfort, five days a week, because it means I have a job I have to get up for. How many people wish they did have a job, but they don’t? I am thankful for the dog hair I find on all of my clothes, which drives me crazy. It means I have a sweet pooch that curls up in my lap and snoozes while I read, and who is my friend even on the days I don’t feel worthy. I am thankful for the lingering odor of the meatballs, which I cooked yesterday afternoon and no amount of Febreeze will remove, because it means I have hot and delicious (if I do say so myself) food available. I’m thankful for this city, because it makes me feel like I’m “home” every time I come back. I’m thankful for you listening to all I am thankful for. Name withheld via email

A GRATEFUL HEART What a beautiful four pages that was in your November issue (Give Thanks, with a Grateful Heart, November 2015), with everyone sharing what they are thankful for. I loved reading every one of them. Judy Larson Spokane, WA LET ME GIVE THANKS I thought it was really neat to see how many different things people have to be thankful for. (Give Thanks, with a Grateful Heart, November 2015). I would like to add my own two cents, if it’s not too late. I am thankful for the chance to live not just in Spokane, but in this great, beautiful country of ours. I am thankful for the obnoxious political campaign season because it means I have a voice, I get to vote and I can help shape our future for our next generation. This is not a right given to all citizens of the world. I am thankful for the service men and women who fight to protect our country, and to whom I am forever indebted. I am thankful that I can love and worship God freely in this country, that I can share my faith, and I have a Lord and Savior in Jesus Christ. I am thankful that there is a pothole on one of the roads I drive to work, because it reminds me that there will be bumps in the road of life, but for the most part I have smooth sailing. I am thankful for the health insurance bill I have to pay each month, even though it takes a chunk out of my bank account. That insurance bill reminds me I have money, maybe not as much as I’d like, and I have access to health care. I am thankful for my alarm clock that jolts me 18

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

ADULTS BEHAVING BADLY Wow, you really laid it out in your last Editor’s Letter (Adults Behaving Badly, November 2015). Bravo! I wish more people would speak out against the rude behavior that seems to be taking over our world. The worst part about adults behaving badly is that they show children how to behave badly. Our words, actions and decisions make such an impression on little ones. I don’t know where civility has gone, but I wish it had left a note – I’d like to go there, too. Lynn Fullton Spokane, WA HOUSE THEORY I love the house feature. Sometimes I recognize the home as one I’ve driven by and longed to see inside, as was the case with the home in the November issue (A Rambling Retreat). Yes, its fun when it’s an iconic dream home, but sometimes they look like the builder’s model home and not real life. They are lovely to look at but I like when you feature homes that are more attainable. Sometimes a modest home that is well cared for and nicely decorated is a dream home as well. With young kids in the home and being a two-income family, my home is never going to look like that. Please add “real life” solutions on making a home family functional yet still beautiful. I love things like turning a closet into an office, creating a child’s play area under the stairs or even a good storage solution for shoes, toys or kitchen spices. Keep up the good writing, and I’ll keep dreaming! LouAnn Hepherson via email

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

FIRST LOOK 2 1 B UZ Z 2 2 LI LACS & LEMONS 28 CI TY TREK

pokane has a hot new business that is sure to be one of the best “ikeas” around. IKEA is a multinational group of companies that designs and primarily sells ready-to-assemble furniture (such as beds, chairs and desks), appliances and home accessories. It is the world’s largest furniture retailer with a cult-like following, and no, we don’t have one here. Many have been known to make the pilgrimage to the west side of the state for an IKEA run as the delivery charges are crazy high and many items are only available for pick-up. Not to mention putting together ready-to-assemble furniture doesn’t come easily for many and is almost impossible for others. Dan Barden and Brad Flora are two entrepreneurial-minded men in their mid-twenties who came up with a solution for our IKEA-less region. The plan to open Urban Creek Delivery came to them as they were working a side job assembling IKEA products for an apartment complex. They had been hunting for a business idea to pursue and, in this case, the start-up was right at their fingertips. >>>

A NEW IDEA spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

FIRST LOOK BUZZ

[not so goo

s n o m e l d n a s lilac [good]

n t B oz z i by Vince

Urban Creek Delivery is a service that allows consumers to place IKEA orders and have them delivered to Spokane. Rather than ordering directly through IKEA, though, customers place their orders with Urban Creek Delivery, which then buys and assembles their items before delivering them to their home or business. The idea isn’t completely original as similar businesses exist. Barden and Flora take comfort in the fact as this idea is working elsewhere, and they plan to exceed expectations in regards to customer service to be the clear choice for those IKEA-less regions wanting the Swedish brand of decor. Barden reports that the response has been overwhelmingly supportive. Within the first 30 days, they’ve gone from nothing to strong Spokane support with media coverage and order inquiries from all over Eastern Washington and as far away as Missoula, Montana. Urban Creek Delivery can have your orders coming in the door just in time for the holiday season and the New Year. In addition, they have started building business relationships with local interior designers. The strong demand for their services has prompted the quick start, with this business going from zero to sixty in record time. — Laurie L. Ross For more information, visit www. urbancreekdelivery.com 22

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

f ba [good out o

LILACS to the tree crews and the Avista line crews for working overtime to restore our city to normalcy after the worst windstorm in our history. We really appreciate your long hours out in the cold! LEMONS to those who are making a mountain out of a molehill over the Starbucks Christmas cups. Talk about giving a successful chain a ton of free publicity, over a matter as simple as the use of green and red, which have always been the traditional colors of Christmas. Their past images of reindeer, ornaments and snowmen have nothing to do with the real meaning of Christmas, either, so why the outcry this time? At least they are making an effort at a Christmas cup, unlike most of the chains. LILACS to Dunkin’ Donuts, though, for being good old fashioned capitalists and promptly introducing their own Christmas cups, emblazoned with the word “JOY” on them in a bit of a retro look from Christmas cards of old. We have nothing against either approach. Our beef is with those who make such a big deal out of simple designs. One look at any department store by the time this is printed will quickly reveal that we as a nation have done anything but try to stamp out Christmas! LILACS to Spokane Public Schools for recognizing the shortage of substitute teachers, and for thinking outside the box in trying to handle the problem. LEMONS, though, to making blanket statements that they may open it up to any person with a bachelor’s degree. That’s a bit of an insult to teachers who endured rigid training, and we certainly hope that prospective substitutes will have to hit at least some minimal performance benchmark other than merely having a degree. LEMONS to the homeless veterans fundraising group that has monopolized all the busy intersections in town with their fundraising appeal. It was all right when it was a couple times a year, but at this point it’s simply an annoyance. LILACS to those who make our neighborhood beautiful and cheerful with outdoor Christmas lights. We especially like those who are meticulous about putting them up nice and straight, doing the windows separately, fully lighting up the tree branches and blending colors nicely. We love all colors but are less enthralled by those that constantly blink, and are not too enamored with the faux-lighted icicles. Blow up balloon decorations usually end up blowing into the neighbor’s yard, so

we’re not too thrilled with those, but hey, we aren’t going to knock anyone with Christmas spirit, except…. LEMONS to light decorators who go overboard with their displays in direct defiance of their neighbors’ wishes. Some decorations do clog up the streets and do light up the neighborhood in gaudy atrocities. Decorating is one thing, but when it robs neighbors of peace, it might be time to consider toning it down. Simple is sometimes better. LILACS to all the department store Santas who add magic to so many children’s lives. Bah and humbug to those who want to rob children of the wonder of the season by being overtly honest with them. Let wonder never cease!

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

NOT

FIRST LOOK BUZZ

A community that pulls together when an epic windstorm wipes out (almost) everyone’s power. Teamwork never looked so good, Spokane!

People who complain when everything is not instantly restored to normalcy, and who lash out with rude comments and personal attacks toward those trying to help. That first day of driving in the snow, watching people speed past you and cause accidents. Oh how much we forget in a few short months! S.L.O.W. D.O.W.N.!!!

Ski resorts already getting snow build-ups. The slightly superior feeling you get by beating the crowd and getting your snow tires on ahead of the rush.

The forehead-hitting realization that you can’t even drive to the tire store, to get your snow tires, because you have bald tires and it just snowed.

Friends, family and strangers who open their homes in times of need.

Wondering where your next hot shower or meal is coming from. (Remember the less fortunate, this season and beyond!)

H T

Dear Spoko-Gnome,

spokanebythenumbers 180,000 +

Estimate of the number of people who lost power

Number of the 55 Spokane Public Schools that did not have power

16 hours

Hours per shift that many linemen and other utility workers worked each day

1,360 tons

Amount of debris gathered for disposal, as of November 23rd

6-8 hours

Time it takes to restore one power pole

Overnight shelters open to people without power

123

Crews working in the field (four times the normal amount)

700 +

People working on power restoration

126 years

How long Avista has been serving Spokane (previously named Washington Water Power)

99203

Zip code considered “ground zero” for damage

The Power Hour edition

Top picks for inexpensive holiday activities? I have three kids who will be out of school for Christmas break, and we’re looking for news ways to spend the days. Hit me with your best ideas. ~ A mom (on behalf of moms everywhere)

Momma,

I’m honored you asked! First and foremost, I think kids just like knowing that you want to spend time with them, so that is half the battle in making them happy. Please note I said half. You do need to do more than sit and gaze lovingly at each other. Might I suggest a few of the following ideas as the perfect ways to fill your days…. Manito Park! That place is paradise year-round. I see skaters out on the pond often during the winter. I don’t know that I am willing to – nor advocating you – entrust a life to a sheet of ice that separates you from a dunk in murky pond water, but there is something positively Norman Rockwell about watching kids skate there. I for sure suggest you hit the snow covered hills of Manito for sledding. Be safe and avoid the trees, but have fun! Also, check with the park to see when the Manito Greenhouse is decorated with holiday lights. Walking through the warm greenhouse at night, with hundreds – well, actually thousands – of lights is magical. I demand you consume lots of hot chocolate. If you are tired of making it at home, you have to hit Rockwood Bakery on the South Hill, for hot chocolate and a little something from the case. Not outrageously priced, but it feels luxurious to sit in the bakery and soak in the magic. Hit the Ice Palace for some skating. Obviously my bias is showing, and I prefer a rink to a pond, but it is still outdoors, still freezing and still fun. You’ll have just as much of a chance of falling down and sliding, but you will avoid the aforementioned pond water. Get cozy and watch a holiday movie. My top picks are: National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, White Christmas, and Planes, Trains and Automobiles (yes, it is about Thanksgiving, but it works for Christmas, too!) That should get you going. Once the fun starts, I have a hunch you’ll create some great ideas on your own. Happy Holidays!!! ~ Spoko-Gnome

SPOKO-GNOME

SPOT

FIRST LOOK BUZZ

the

DIFFERENCE

can you spot the FIVE differences?

Picture taken at our November Release Party at Chateau Rive | Sponsored by St. Joseph Family Center Answers: In the photo on the right: 1.) Woman on the left is wearing a Santa hat. 2.) Woman in the middle is wearing reindeer antlers. 3) The man on the left has a green shirt. 4.) Man also has a snowman pocket square instead of a name tag. 5.) There is garland at the top of the photo.

Hope Stones project benefits women needing YWCA safe shelters

Hope Stones

Sisterhood creates hope for YWCA clients

Tracy Jewelers holds Hope Stones sales twice a year and has raised thousands of dollars for the YWCA of Spokane safe shelters. More than 200 original pieces of jewelry will be for sale at a Hope Stones event on December 3, 4 and 5 at the Spokane Valley store located at 106 North Evergreen. Each piece comes with the Hope Stones story. For more information about a Hope Stones sale, to participate in a jewelrymaking wine event or to support the YWCA of Spokane, please call 509-326-1190 or visit www.ywcaspokane.org

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

THE “SISTERHOOD” started in 2012 when Melanie Wilson, community resource coordinator of the YWCA of Spokane, picked up a donation from long-time supporter Maureen Tracy of Tracy Jewelers. A shared love of jewelry and a desire to support women and children in need, sparked future conversations that resulted in the Hope Stones project. With all proceeds going to the YWCA of Spokane, the Hope Stones project allows women staying in emergency safe shelters to takes gemstones donated by Tracy Jewelers and create one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry. “The Hope Stones project means so much to women in our domestic violence safe shelters,” says Wilson. “To be able to hand craft something that is beautiful fills these women with a sense of pride and accomplishment – something they may have never felt before. It also provides them a way to help future women who will be needing shelter after fleeing abuse.” Women at the YWCA shelters take craft classes during their stay as part of their healing process. They learn to make jewelry with the stones, keeping one for themselves to serve as a symbol of their journey and hope, and making additional pieces to sell. “I’ve always wanted to use my passion for jewelry to be helpful to others,” says Tracy. “It’s very rewarding to be part of something that helps women feel good about themselves.” — Nicole Stewart

DOWNTOWN SPOKANE’S RUSTIC, RIVERFRONT WEDDING VENUE FO R M O R E INF ORMATION ON FA C IL IT Y R E N TA L R AT E S & C AT E R IN G OP TI O N S ,

PLEASE CALL 509.795.2030

AT T H E F L O U R M I L L 6 2 1 W E S T M A L L O N AV E N U E , S P O K A N E , WA 9 9 2 0 1 W W W. C H AT E A U R I V E . C O M

CITY TREK BUZZ

by Julia Zurcher

SPOKANE FALLS BLVD

xperience the holiday season to its fullest on Spokane Falls Boulevard. This street runs through the heart of downtown and boasts excellent shopping, dining and entertainment. Wrap up buying your holiday gifts, enjoy a special meal or relax with friends over drinks – you’ll be feeling the holiday spirit.

EAT.

Mizuna championed sustainable, seasonal food long before it was trendy. Offering both vegetarian and omnivorous options, the care and technique that goes into preparing Mizuna’s local and organic ingredients is obvious. The restaurant boasts a warm and romantic ambience that makes it perfect for a special night out. The menu changes with the seasons, but the vegan carrot cake is a staple and boasts celebrity status among Spokane diners.

DRINK. After a day navigating holiday sales and shoppers, even the cheeriest of us could use a cold one. O’Dohertys is

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

a Spokane institution where good pub food and drinks are always available. Invite your friends and warm up with a round and an order of their scotch eggs, and you’ll feel ready to brave the holiday cheer once again.

EXPERIENCE. Downtown comes alive with events for the whole family to celebrate New Year’s Eve at First Night Spokane. There are crafts for kids, concerts and live performances beginning at 7 p.m. and ending at midnight. Make the start of the year special and celebrate with your community.

SHOP.

The spirit of the holidays is on full tinsel and glitter display at River Park Square. For a dose of pictureperfect holiday spirit, visit the iconic, multi-story Christmas tree that’s been immortalized in countless family cards. Or, plan a night with the family to finish buying gifts, share a dinner and catch a movie. Be sure to visit the Kress Gallery on the third floor to see art from local students and upand-coming artisans. This shopping and entertainment center has anchored downtown Spokane since 1974, and will continue to for years to come.

DISCOVER. Find gifts for every-

one on your list this holiday season with a trip to two must-visit stores: Boo Radley’s and Atticus Coffee & Gifts. Consider Atticus the grownup version of Boo Radley’s. Run by the same owners, Boo’s carries whimsical books and funky toys while Atticus stocks unique home goods and artisan tea and coffee. For the perfect shopping experience, go to Atticus first and order from their extensive selection of loose-leaf teas to enjoy while you peruse. After you’ve stocked up on unique candles and home decoration, go down the street to Boo Radley’s where you’ll find a one-ofa-kind gift and plenty of stocking stuffers.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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THE SCENE 4 4 B O OK REVI EWS 46 DATEBO OK

2015 Holiday Light Show Tradition Continues

The 2015 Coeur d’Alene Resort Holiday Light Show will create magical memories again this year.

hat began as a few lights decorating the front entrance of The Coeur d’Alene Resort in 1986 has grown to an international holiday destination with more than 250 displays and was voted the fourth best Holiday Light Display in 2014 by USA Today. During this 29th edition of The Coeur d’Alene Resort Holiday Light Show, the lights will shine through January 3, 2016, with “Journey to the North Pole” cruises departing nightly across the lake. Organizers say this year’s show will bring

back the 60-foot-tall Animated Floating Christmas Tree on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Children will continue to delight as Santa reads their names from the “Nice” list when the cruise boat visits his North Pole workshop. Plus, there will be a fireworks display at Santa’s workshop for all cruises each night. Christmas with Friends, a holiday revue by Ellen Travolta at The Coeur d’Alene Resort, offers music and memories through December 20. The Coeur d’Alene Resort offers special holiday packages including a lighting ceremony package, holiday bed and breakfast package, and Santa’s family getaway package. All packages include accommodations, dining credit and “Journey to the North Pole” cruise tickets. Diners can also receive buy-one, get-one-free cruise tickets with meal purchases at Beverly’s, Cedar’s Floating Restaurant, Tito’s Italian Grill, Dockside, Bonsai Bistro or Mulligan’s. For more information about Journey to the North Pole cruises, contact (855) 956-1977 or www.cdacruises.com

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

ARTIST BOOK REVIEWS PROFILE LOCAL NORA EGGER AUTHORS

A Sudden Light by Garth Stein

Washington author Garth Stein is probably best known for his internationally bestselling novel, The Art of Racing in the Rain, a beautiful, tear-jerker of a story told from the perspective of a man’s dog. This year, after a long and anticipated wait, Stein has released his newest novel, A Sudden Light, a unique story about family, childhood and secrets kept from children. A Sudden Light follows 14 year-old Trevor, a young man caught in the middle of his parent’s separation. Trevor’s father, Jones, moves with Trevor into the Riddle House, an old estate overlooking the Puget Sound under the guise of taking care of Trevor’s Grandpa Samuel. Joined by Trevor’s Aunt Serena, Jones’ true plans are revealed as they work to move Grandpa Samuel out of his house and into an assisted living facility in order to sell his property for development. As Trevor spends more time in the Riddle House exploring and discovering its secrets, he encounters a spirit in the house that is working to stop his father’s plan. Trevor learns more about the house and his family’s past, and he becomes the only one who can uncover the truth and change his family’s future. Though A Sudden Light may be different than Stein’s previous work, fans of the author will appreciate his signature compassionate writing and his focus on human connection and the depth of family relationships. Stein 38

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

by Kate Derrick

writes with honesty and beauty that will please readers of any age. Published by Simon & Schuster, hardcover, $26.95 Garth Stein is the author of four novels: the New York Times bestseller, A Sudden Light; the internationally bestselling The Art of Racing in the Rain; the PNBA Book Award winner, How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets; the magically realistic Raven Stole the Moon. He is also the author of the stage play, Brother Jones. He has a dog, he’s raced a few cars, climbed a bunch of really tall trees, made a few documentary films, and he lives in Seattle with his family.

Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl by Carrie Brownstein

Carrie Brownstein is somewhat of a Pacific Northwest icon. Born in Seattle, Washington, Brownstein is a member of the popular punk band, Sleater-Kinney. Though the band broke up in 2006, Brownstein gained even more popularity writing and starring in Portlandia, a wildly successful satirical television comedy set in Portland, in which she stars with Fred Armisen. Sleater-Kinney came back onto the scene in 2015 after an eight year hiatus, and Brownstein has released her first book, Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl, a biography about her role as one of the key figures in pop culture and the

early Pacific Northwest indie scene. In this book Brownstein shares stories detailing her growth as a woman in the music industry. Brownstein begins her story with tales of her childhood as she was growing up in Seattle. She tells of family turmoil as she dreamed of making a name for herself in the music scene. The author’s family drama gives insight into the person she has become today, namely her mother’s long-term struggle with anorexia, and her father coming out as gay at the end of their marriage. Brownstein’s Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl is not a typical band autobiography. While the reader gains insight into the process of Brownstein’s success with Sleater-Kinney, the most inspiring passages come from the author’s personal growth as a woman. Brownstein shares how she navigated a male-dominated industry and emerged a woman with strong personal values and internal strength. Fans of Sleater-Kinney definitely won’t want to miss this book. Published by Riverhead Books, hardcover, $27.95 Carrie Brownstein was born in Seattle, Washington. She is a founding member of the rock band Sleater-Kinney, and was formerly in the band Excuse 17. Alongside Fred Armisen, she is a co-writer, actress and co-developer of the sketch comedy show Portlandia (2011) on IFC TV.

Pacific Northwest Ballet at 25 by Wayne Johnson

Seattle author, Wayne Johnson, moved to Washington in 1965 to take a position as the Seattle Times’ arts and entertainment editor, and later, the drama critic. As someone who devotes his professional work to art, it seems that his book, Pacific Northwest Ballet at 25, was a natural progression. In Pacific Northwest Ballet at 25, Jonson tells the reader about the Pacific Northwest Ballet company and their work to become internationally respected and recognized in the dancing world. Following the company’s artistic directors, Kent Stowell and Francia Russell, Johnson spent months spending most of his time watching the creative process within the company. Sitting in on classes, watching rehearsals and performances, Johnson gained an inside perspective of the work and talent that goes into running a successful dance company. Although it is filled with information about Seattle’s dance scene as well as the history of the company, Pacific Northwest Ballet at 25 is more than just a novel. Johnson’s writing is accompanied by beautiful full-page black and white photos of dancers throughout history, as well as Seattle’s most well-known figures in ballet. Johnson does a great job sharing the difficulties of the industry, from raising funds to gaining the attention of the media, and the feeling of succeeding in the end. Whether you are a dancer yourself, or someone who is merely interested in the local ballet scene, Pacific Northwest Ballet at 25 is a great book to own. Display Johnson’s work in your house, whether you read it all the way through or pieces at a time. You will find yourself inspired by the dedication that Johnson put into his research, as well as the diligence and elegance of the Pacific Northwest Ballet, their directors and their beautiful dancers. Published by Documentary Book Publishers, hardcover, $24.95 Wayne Johnson has been writing about the performing arts for most of his career. He wrote for the Denver Post before coming to Seattle in 1965 as the arts and entertainment editor of the Seattle Times. He later became the Times’ drama critic. He has authored stage and screen plays and many articles about the arts. spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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through February 7, 2016: Nature Connects: LEGO® Brick Sculptures Nature Connects uses the magical fun of LEGOs® to connect visitors to the wonders of the natural world. Twenty seven sculptures created from nearly 500,000 LEGO®bricks by artist Sean Kenney of New York include an 8-foot-tall hummingbird, a 7-foot-tall rose and a 5-foot-tall butterfly. The exhibit aims to spark creativity in viewers of all ages and to foster a greater sense of play in viewers of all ages. Museum of Arts and Culture. 2316 W. First Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201. Call (509) 456-3931 or e-mail themac@northwestmuseum.org for more information.

ART December 4, January 1: First Friday Enjoy visual arts, musical presentations, sample local foods, get acquainted with local performing artists and more at this monthly event sponsored by the Downtown Spokane Partnership. On the first Friday of each month, participating galleries, museums, boutiques and more host a city-wide open house with refreshments and entertainment. Join us! First Friday is free and open to the public! Downtown Spokane. For more information or a complete map of participating venues, please log on to http://www.downtownspokane.org/first-friday.php. December 6, December 21, January 3, January 18: Spokane Poetry Slam and BootSlam Spokane Poetry Slam is competitive performance poetry at its Northwest finest! Every first and third Sunday, spoken word warriors battle for Inland Empire supremacy, and a $50 Grand Prize. Each poem is judged by five members of the audience and, after two rounds of poetry, whichever poet has the highest cumulative score is declared the winner! Bootslam, at Boots Bakery, is held on the first Sunday of each month, while Spokane Poetry Slam, held at the Bartlett, is held on the third Monday of each month. Boots Bakery and Lounge, 24 W Main Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201. The Bartlett, 228 W Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA 99201. For more information, please log on to: http:// spokanepoetryslam.org/ through December 19: Jesuits in the Arts Series: Visual Art Enjoy “Vivid in My Mind: The Visionary and Landscape Images of Father Andrew William Vachon, S.J.” and “Befriending Sacredness: Works by Fr. Araujo, S.J.” There will be an opening reception for this installation on Friday, September 25, 5-7 pm. Jundt Art Museum. 200 E Desmet Ave. Spokane, WA 99258. For more information, log on to: http://www.gonzaga.edu/

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

through January 5, 2016: In Search of Lost Time: Bob Gilmore and His Former Students This exhibit pays homage to Robert (Bob) Gilmore and his long lineage as a teacher of painting in Spokane for over 40 years. Bob has a passion for painting which he has devoted the majority of his life’s pursuit. He has contributed greatly to the craft and to our region, by teaching this pursuit to a great number of talented and passionate painters who studied with him over the years. Chase Gallery at City Hall. 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For more information, log on to http://www.visitspokane.com/art/chase-gallery/

MUSIC December 2: Joe Nichols With eight popular albums that have produced fourteen Top 40 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts, American country music artist Joe Nichols has been entertaining audiences for nearly 20 years.Born and raised in Rogers, Arkansas, Nichols began his music career in a rock band before taking a job as a country DJ. He hit it big in 2002 with the release of his second album, Man with a Memory. Its lead-off single, “The Impossible” went on to become a No. 3 hit. His second single from the album, “Brokenheartsville” became his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard country charts. His other No. 1 singles include, “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off”, “Gimmie That Girl”, “Sunny and 75” and “Yeah”. Northern Quest Casino, 100 N Hayford Rd, Airway Heights, WA 99001. For tickets, please log on to http://northernquest.com/. December 3-6: Spokane Symphony: The Nutcracker Don’t miss Spokane’s only production of The Nutcracker performed with live music, the way it was intended! For 37 years, the Spokane Symphony has been collaborating with acclaimed ballet companies to present The Nutcracker, a cherished family tradition signaling the start of the holiday season. Based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s classic story of Clara and her Nutcracker prince, The Nutcracker continues to delighted children of all ages. This season, the ballet features the nationally acclaimed Santa Barbarabased State Street Ballet and more than 75 local children dancing to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. There will be five exciting performances to choose from at the historic Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, complete with hot cocoa and cupcakes for pre-purchase when you arrive to avoid the intermission rush. Truly the land of sweets. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200. spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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December 7: The Oak Ridge Boys: Christmas Night Out The Oak Ridge Boys, Country Music Hall of Fame’s newest members, will perform live in Spokane. They’ll kick off this huge show with over 40 years of award winning music. The hits are endless but they will be packed in! Listen for “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue” along with your other favorites! As a bonus after the classic hits are done, the stage is transformed into a Christmas wonderland! The trees are decorated, the snow is falling and Santa is there too! The Oak Ridge Boys treat you to Christmas favorites as only they can. From rollicking Santa songs to heartfelt standards, this show is a family favorite! INB Performing Arts Center. 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com.

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December 7: Gonzaga Symphony Orchestra: Matt Haimovitz Gonzaga Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Kevin Hekmatpanah, will perform a works by Czech and American composers. The first is The Moldau by Bohemian composer Bedřich Smetana, a patriotic tone poem about the Vltava or Moldau River as it winds its way through the Czech countryside from its mountain source to Prague. Like Smetana, fellow countryman Antonin Dvořák is well-known for incorporating Czech folk melodies into his music. His Scherzo Capriccioso helped to establish Dvořák’s international fame as a composer of brilliance, with a flair for rhythmic lilt and melodic charm. Samuel Barber’s Cello Concerto was commissioned for expatriate Russian cellist Raya Garbousova and was premiered with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Although it won critical acclaim, it has remained in obscurity, largely because of its extreme technical demands. Cellist Matt Haimovitz will bring his passionate playing to the work. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200.

December 13: John Tesh or a decade, Tesh had a “dream job” as co-host of the popular television show, “Entertainment Tonight.” But his life-long aspiration was always to be a professional musician and composer. Seven million albums later, a string of number one radio hits, two Grammy nominations, six hit PBS music specials, and a Keyboard Magazine award, it’s safe to say that people take Tesh’s music seriously. Three of his releases, A Deeper Faith, Christmas Worship and Power of Love have all resided on the Billboard pop and Christian music charts, and Power of Love was nominated for a 2003 Grammy for “Best Pop Instrumental Album.” His Live at Red Rocks concert was certified Gold by the RIAA, and the subsequent Red Rocks Platinum was a hit national television special. Northern Quest Casino, 100 N Hayford Rd, Airway Heights, WA 99001. For tickets, please log on to http://northernquest.com/.

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December 15: Death Cab for Cutie This show was rescheduled from the original October 1 date -- tickets for that show will be honored. Described as one of the most beloved live acts of the modern era, Death Cab for Cutie kicked off their North American headline tour this April and will be visiting Spokane on October 1 at the INB Performing Arts Center. These performances will see the core membership of singer/guitarist Ben Gibbard, bassist Nick Harmer, and drummer Jason McGerr augmented by new touring members Dave Depper and Zac Rae, both of whom will contribute additional guitars and keyboards. INB Performing Arts Center. 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com.

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December 19-20: Spokane Symphony SuperPops: Holiday Pops A heart-warming performance of festive music, including all the magical moments that make the Holiday Pops a family tradition. The music you crave for Christmas, along with some new favorites, the audience sing-along, and of course, a visit from Santa will delight the young and the young-at-heart! Youth 17 and under just half price. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200.

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December 26: Brian Setzer Orchestra: Christmas Rocks! Tour he Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 12th Annual “Christmas Rocks! Tour” is hitting Spokane the day after Christmas! Brian and the band will keep you in the Christmas spirit by means of Swing, Jump Blues and Rockabilly music, delivering an evening you won’t forget. This year’s tour comes in support of Brian’s first new studio Christmas album in 10 years, “Rockin’ Rudolph.” Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200. December 31: Spokane Symphony New Year’s Eve: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony Back by popular demand, the Spokane Symphony and Chorale will join the ecstatic multitudes around the world who celebrate New Year’s Eve with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Beethoven’s masterpiece is considered by many to be the best and most joyous piece of music ever written, and has become an exciting part of the holiday revelry in downtown Spokane. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane,

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WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200. January 15: Spokane Symphony: Winter Symphony With a Splash Symphony With A Splash is a fantastic way to kick off the weekend! Friday nights with the Spokane Symphony are Fun, Fabulous and Affordable. The Fun starts at 5 pm at Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox. Enjoy live music from a local band in the swanky Fox lobby while noshing on Happy Hour food and drink specials. The party moves into the hall at 7 pm for a Fabulous one-hour performance by the Spokane Symphony of classical music, both time-honored and cutting edge. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200.

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EVENTS through January 3: Holiday Light Show at the Coeur d’Alene Resort The Coeur d’Alene Resort Holiday Light Show was recently selected as the #4 holiday light show in America in the USA Today Readers’ Choice List of the best holiday light shows in America. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, bring the family to see The Coeur d’Alene Resort Holiday Light Show, a wonderland of over 1.5 million lights and the largest on-the-water holiday light display in America. The signature “Journey to the North Pole” Holiday Lake Cruise visits Santa’s North Pole Toy Workshop where America’s Tallest Floating Christmas Tree towers above the lake with thousands of twinkling lights. This season, Santa’s elves have a special fireworks show waiting for each visit to the North Pole. A fleet of cruise boats depart every evening through the holiday season to view the

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December 1-13: Christmas Tree Elegance Two of Spokane’s outstanding destinations, the historic Davenport Hotel and River Park Square shopping and entertainment complex, will host Christmas Tree Elegance. Christmas Tree Elegance is a raffle of 18 themed custom-decorated trees with prizes which include gift certificates, items and cash valued at approximately $5,000. In addition, a Father Christmas sculpture and a custom doll house will be raffle items this year. The chance to win one of the fabulously decorated trees and all its themed gifts has been a Spokane holiday tradition for more than 30 years. Thousands of visitors from across the Inland Northwest come to view the trees and purchase the $1 raffle tickets for a chance to win. The Davenport Hotel. 10 S Post St, Spokane, WA 99201. River Park Square. December 5: Jingle Bell Run/Walk The Arthritis Foundation’s long-running Jingle Bell Run is a festive race that helps champion arthritis research and brings people from all walks of life together, to say “yes” to furthering a great cause. Jingle Bell Run is a fun way to get out, get moving and raise funds and awareness. Whether you prefer to walk or run, wear your ugly Christmas sweater or tie jingle bells to your shoes, this 5K is sure to spread smiles, holiday cheer and a winning spirit. Riverfront Park - North Bank Shelter. Spokane, WA 99201. For more information and to regster, please log on to: http://www.arthritis.org/

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December 11: Mythbusters: Jamie and Adam Unleashed! This all-new, live stage show starring Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Emmy-nominated Discovery series MythBusters promises to be an unexpected evening of on-stage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-

scenes stories. Fans will join Jamie and Adam on stage and assist in their mind-twisting and not always orthodox approach to science. INB Performing Arts Center. 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. December 12: Bing Crosby Holiday Film Festival The annual Bing Crosby Holiday Film Festival takes place Saturday, Dec. 12, at the historic Bing Crosby Theater in downtown Spokane. The theater, where hometown Bing Crosby performed live skits between the silent films shown there in the 1920s, is celebrating its centennial year this year. The family-friendly festival features Crosby films -- this year it’s Holiday Inn, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court and two showings of the iconic White Christmas -- as well as a live musical performance by Howard Crosby (Bing’s nephew), a large display of Crosby photos, Crosby memorabilia and a raffle. Admission is $10 (children 12 and under admitted free) for all day; tickets available only at the door (cash or check only). Sponsored by the Bing Crosby Advocates, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the legacy the Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. For more information log on to http://www.bingcrosbytheater.com/.

December 28: So You Think You Can Dance, Season 12 Tour Celebrating its momentous 12th season and its exciting new Stage v. Street format, So You Think You Can Dance’s Top 10 finalists will make their way across North America performing in 70 cities as part of the So You Think You Can Dance Season 12 Tour! The Season 12 Tour lineup includes the following Top 10 finalists: Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja” Vankova. INB Performing Arts Center. 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com.

December 31: First Night Spokane Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Winter Festival of Arts & Entertainment. The biggest New Year’s party this town has ever seen, along with one of the best fireworks shows of the year! Bring in the New Year with First Night Spokane! First Night Spokane will feature the First Night Film Fest, Singing in the New Year at the Spokane Convention Center, Puttin’ On the Ritz at the Davenport, a Battle of the Bands, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony performed by the Spokane Symphony, and many other exciting and festive events! Downtown Spokane. For more information and to find the locations at which to buy entry buttons, please log on to: https:// www.firstnightspokane.org December 31: Puttin’ On the Ritz Puttin’ On The Ritz will provide the glamor and glitter of New Year’s Eve in the Grand Pennington Ballroom and Hall of Doges of Spokane’s historic Davenport Hotel. This gala event starts at 9 pm, just after Spokane Symphony’s stirring performance of Beethoven’s Ninth, and continues until 1 am. Dance and experience an exciting and diverse selection of music played by Master Class Jazz Orchestra. Enjoy live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, door prizes, late night fare, midnight champagne toast and more at the most exciting New Year’s Eve celebration in Spokane! The Davenport Hotel. 10 S Post St, Spokane, WA 99201. For more information, please log on to: http://spokanesymphony. org/. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509-624-1200. January 16: Luis Bravo’s Forever Tango Forever Tango celebrates the passionate music and dance of Argentina, with six world-class Argentine Tango couples, a traditional Argentine 1930s style vocalist and eleven piece orchestra, featuring the instrument of the tango, the bandoneón, a 19th century German accordion. For this tour only, the company is joined by guest artists Anna Trebunskaya and Dmitry Chaplin, of Dancing with the Stars renown. The dances, performed to original and traditional music, are the result of collaboration between each couple and director/creator Luis Bravo. Fox Theatre. 1001 W Sprague Ave. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest. com. Tickets may also be purchased with personalized service at the Box Office of Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 West Sprague Avenue, or by calling 509624-1200.

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DATE BOOK DECEMBER

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THEATRE through December 19: White Christmas Based on the timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation tells the story of veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N Howard St., Spokane, WA 99201. For showtimes and more information, call (509) 325-2507. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. through December 20: The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical It’s holiday time down in Armadillo Acres, and everyone’s filled with warmth and beer. When a freak bout of amnesia strikes the trailer park Scrooge, neighborly love is put to the test. Be on hand as Betty, Lin, and Pickles jingle all the way with some new neighbors. It’s a trailer-trashy good time… but with tinsel and Keg Nog. The Modern Theatre - CdA. 1320 E Garden Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814. For more information and tickets, please log on to: http:// www.themoderntheater.org/ December 3-6: A Christmas Story: The Musical This holiday season, for the first time in Spokane, one of America’s favorite Christmas movies comes to life live- on-stage in a hilarious, large scale Broadway musical. A Christmas Story, The Musical chronicles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder® Carbine-

Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle. An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a double-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish. Chock-full of delightful songs and splashy production numbers, A Christmas Story, The Musical, following its smash hit Broadway run, has proudly taken its place as a perennial holiday classic for the whole family. INB Performing Arts Center. 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. December 5-13: A Charlie Brown Christmas The over-commercialization of Christmas has Charlie Brown quite depressed. Lucy suggests he direct the annual Christmas play, which helps not just Charlie Brown, but the entire gang learn the true meaning of Christmas. This is a production by Spokane Civic Theatre’s Academy students. Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N Howard St., Spokane, WA 99201. For showtimes and more information, call (509) 325-2507. For tickets, call 1-800-325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. December 24: It’s a Wonderful Life: A Radio Play It’s a re-creation of a 1940’s radio program, it’s a stage production: It’s a Wonderful Life! This unique way to experience the beloved story of George Bailey’s journey from hopelessness to peace during a very long and magical Christmas Eve is a joint production of Friends Of the Bing and Spokane Civic Theatre. A five-member cast from Spokane Civic Theatre will do double duty as they bring the teeming world of Bedford Falls to life on stage while they also play actors putting on a radio play, in Joe Landry’s clever mash up of depression era radio and the beloved Frank Capra film. Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201. For tickets, call 1-800325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com. For more information log on to http://www. bingcrosbytheater.com/. January 1-17: Lucky Me This comedy about love, bad luck, aging, and airport security will make your bad week seem like a walk in the park! The light bulbs in Sarah’s apartment keep burning out, there’s yet another leak in the roof, the aquarium is perpetually full of dead fish, the cat’s gone AWOL, and her blind father is immediately suspicious of Tom… a TSA agent who just brought Sarah home from the emergency room on New Year’s Eve with a fractured 5th metatarsal. The Modern Theatre - Spokane. 174 S Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201. For more information and tickets, please log on to: http://www.themoderntheater.org/ spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

WHAT I KNOW

NICOLLE TONASKET

RTDNA Chair (Radio Television Digital News Association) Kathy Walker awards Nicolle at the Edward R. Murrow Gala in New York City. (photos by Flip Wolak)

Nicolle Tonasket

Modern families come in all colors. Nobody in my family matches. You would never think we were related until you saw us talk with our hands. My biological father is black, my mom has blond hair and green eyes, my adoptive father is part of the Colville tribe and my sisters are a mix of the two. Yet as a small child, I never noticed how different we all looked. Family wasn’t defined by looks. My sister was simply my sister. I had no concept of race, color or that most families resembled each other. These weren’t things my parents taught us. People were just people. The concept of color and race is learned. Call it naive, but I had no concept of color or racial differences until the second grade. And I will never forget the day it all changed. A classmate asked me why my sisters and I “didn’t match?” It was the most baffling

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

Digital Media Director at KREM2, Edward R. Murrow aaward recipient question. He explained to me that families were supposed to look alike and that I wasn’t the same color as my parents and sisters. It changed the entire way I saw the world. And sadly, once you are taught those differences, it’s hard to go back to not noticing. Big Catholic families build strong voices. There are no shrinking violets in my large extended family. They would never survive. I’ve learned a lot being one of many in a loud

Catholic family. You find your voice young because he who talks the loudest wins. And in big families, everyone talks at once. You’ll never be heard if you wait for the appropriate time to interject in the conversation. So if you have something important to say— just say it.

under the comforter on the worst of days, so you might as well make it fabulous. Know your limitations. Hire a professional. Want to stress yourself out? Get pregnant, buy a house, pack everything you own frantically and take a vacation right in the middle of the all the chaos. I recently tried it. It’s a mess. Lesson learned. Instead, spend the money if you can and hire a professional to help you move. Not everything needs to be a DIY project. Pinterest should have taught everyone that lesson by now.

Christmas is spectacular. My love for Christmas lands somewhere between Clark Griswold and Buddy the Elf. It might be a bit much, but I make no apologies. My Christmas tree is always too large, my budget is typically a bust, and my baking is questionable yet edible. But I wait all year and Christmas never disappoints. Think before you tweet. Nicolle Tonasket with boyfriend Ryan Sowards. It’s not all about religion, family Actually think twice. Nothing or twinkly lights for me though. should shock me working in Christmas truly is a magical time of year. It brings a glow to people news, but social media constantly leaves me at a loss for words. letting their happiness and generosity shine. At some point this People post outrageous, passive aggressive diatribes online. Now December stop and soak in all the positive vibes. You won’t be your name is forever linked with 140 characters of crazy. So next disappointed. time you tweet consider one thing. Do you really want your most memorable quote to be one of hate and nonsense? Find someone who makes you laugh. Be with someone who makes you laugh so hard it hurts. Everything shouldn’t be so Conference calls only lead to more calls. My work schedule serious. I’m far from a relationship pro, so “what I know” here is is littered with conference calls. I love working but often find limited. But my boyfriend makes me laugh all the time and for that myself trapped by endless phone calls contemplating everything I am grateful. from social media theory to how to handle online trolls. Oddly enough, it cuts into serious time where I could be accomplishing Thank you cards are a must. Call it “old-fashioned” but I firmly things that actually matter. These well-intentioned calls have come believe in writing thank you cards to show appreciation. It’s simple to resemble a Dilbert comic where the punchline is always “let’s and such a kind gesture. An email or a text message do not have schedule another conference call to discuss the issue further.” the same impact. My mother owned a greeting card business so we #ICantDoItAnymore were taught to send a card for all occasions but especially to thank people. Gratitude should not be a lost art. It should be a must. Put your phone down. I’m still working on this one. The internet never sleeps so neither does my job, but most of the calls and texts Spend big on great bedding. I love a great sale! But I believe are white noise compared to what is in front of me. Going forward, firmly in splurging on things that bring you comfort. Bedding is no my goal is to put my phone down and just live. Life isn’t happening place to cut corners with subpar thread counts. Your bed should be on social media. Life is happening here and now, and you’ll miss the coziest spot in the house. Life is tough and I believe in hiding the best part if you’re reading someone else’s status.

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MAKE YOUR LIST, CHECK IT TWICE, and flip through these pages to make gift giving a breeze this year. We asked and local businesses and advertisers answered by sharing with us some of their best holiday gift ideas. Who wouldn’t want to shop local and make someone so happy with the perfect gift? Consider this the first gift given in this holiday season: we give the Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living Christmas Wish List 2015. It is our gift to you!

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

1) AN ARTISTIC EXPERIENCE Anyone can be an artist and have fun being creative with a Pinot’s Palette gift certificate– no art experience required! In two or three hours, you can create a festive, whimsical and colorful painting while listening to great music and sipping your favorite beverage from the bar. ($35.00 to $90.00) Pinot’s Palette, (509) 290-5098, www.pinotspalette.com

2) SPOKANE HISTORY BOOK

Spokane’s Stories: 28 Stories of the People, Places and Events That Have Shaped Spokane is a hardback coffee table book with 196 glossy pages filled with more than 230 local historic photographs and 28 full-length local history stories. Spokane’s Stories is written by Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living editor, Blythe Thimsen, and is the book anyone with a connection to Spokane will want to have in their collection. ($34.99) Spokane’s Stories, (509) 290-3824, www.blythethimsen.com

3) HAMISH THE PULLALONG TERRIER

Let Hamish the pull-along Terrier-on-wheels roll into your heart. Hammish is made from the best quality cream and honey-colored velour and sports a pretty tartan coat for those chilly winter walks. ($45.00) French Toast, (509) 315 8200, www.facebook/frenchtoastbaby. com

4) POINSETTIA Poinsettias are a beautiful way to welcome the season, especially when they are from Liberty Park Florist, which grows their own - the prettiest in Spokane! Many colors and sizes to choose from. They also offer poinsettias with a ceramic ornament ($15.95). Liberty Park Florist, (509) 5349381, www.libertyparkflorist.com

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

5) COFFEE MUG The most important part to most people’s day is their first cup of coffee; therefore, one of the most important and appreciated gifts you can give them is a coffee mug to aid in the morning beverage consumption. Get one free, with the purchase of a Blackbird restaurant gift card! ($0.00 with purchase) The Blackbird, (509) 392-4000, www.theblackbirdspokane.com 6) HOLLY JOLLY PARTY TIME Thrill the entire crowd with a variety of our best openup-and-eat snacks and treats. Loaded to the brim with gourmet popcorn, our famous soft peanut brittle, triple cherry nut mix, candy cane caramels, peppermint shortbread and more! ($35.00 to $150.00) Simply Northwest, (509) 927-8206, www.simplynorthwest.com 7) PORCELAIN ART For the discerning friend or family member, only a gift with exquisite detailing will do. Try this piece of art to win a piece of their heart! It is a high-fired porcelain colander, 10” in diameter, by artist Lauren Smith of Butte, Montana. ($115.00) Trackside Studio LLC, (509) 863-9904, www.tracksidestudio.net 8) FABULOUS ACCESSORIES It’s all about accessories this season, and what better way to set your look apart than to add a dash of style in the small things? From this Charcoal CC Beanie ($15.00) to the Lauren Hobo Wallet in Cheetah Shimmer ($128.00), it is the little things that make the big statements. Jema Lane Boutique, (509) 321-2330, www.jemalane.com

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

HALLETT’S CHOCOLATES 6704 N. Nevada, Spokane, WA 99208 509-474-0899 | www.hallettschocolates.com

allett’s Chocolates manufactures and sells chocolates and candies for retail and wholesale. They offer their confections along with espresso beverages and pastries made on-site at their brick and mortar location on Spokane’s north side. Joel and Tom Hallett started Hallett Farms over 30 years ago with a strawberry and raspberry farm in Otis Orchards. Since fruit was strictly a seasonal item, the brothers decided to start making candies to support their families year-round. The first candy they developed was a soft peanut brittle known as Peanut Butter Crunch. Joel took over the candy business and went on to create over 120 different chocolates and candies. When the Kane family purchased the company in 2004, Joel and his wife, Jennifer, offered to come out of retirement to teach them how to continue to produce the same high quality products. Eleven years later, they have proven to be quite the chocolatiers. The Kane’s have committed to continuing the use of the highest quality ingredients to maintain the standard Hallett’s built for the brand. “We can’t thank Cy (Joel) and Jennifer enough for their continued support. It wouldn’t have been the same without them,” confesses Kari Kane. While any new venture is challenging, the downturn in the economy set the new owners back a bit, but the relocation of their retail store to Nevada Street and the economic recovery has helped get them back on track. High-quality products and affordable prices are commitments from which they refused to waiver. While maintaining the tradition of the original chocolates, the Kane’s have found new energy in delectable new flavor combinations such as the popular Grey Sea Salt Caramels and Habanero Caramels.

BUSINESS CLOSE-UPS

UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO QUALITY

9) 3-PACK COFFEE ASSORTMENT Brew up goodwill and cheer this holiday season, and well into the New Year, by giving the gift of the bean – either ground or whole beans. This 3-pack assortment of coffee from Tom Sawyer Country Coffee will hit the spot for coffee lovers. (starting at $35.95, ground or whole bean) Tom Sawyer Country Coffee, (360) 770-3112, www.tomsawyercountrycoffee.com 10) BABOR REVERSIVE ANTI-AGING DUAL SERUM Unlock the individual beauty potential of your skin with an intensely moisturizing serum with a unique boosting action for timelessly beautiful skin. With active ingredients Telovitin, Agicyl, Epocyl and Lumicol, this serum restores the skin’s youthful radiance. ($265.00) Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort & Hotel Spa, (800) 523-2464, www.cdacsino.com 11) ECO FULL ZIP Wear and show your love for Manito Tap House with this Eco men’s Gander full zip fleece jacket. You’ll be warm in your threads, and cool in your demeanor! ($75.00) Manito Tap House, (509) 279-2672, www.manitotaphouse.com 12) CHANCE FOR GLORY Author Darin Watkins chronicles the untold story of the Washington State University football team of 1915 when William “Lone Star” Dietz, a Native American, was hired as the new coach. This story tells the 1915 team’s story, from its early days to its triumphant conclusion. ($25.00) Auntie’s Bookstore, (509) 838-0206, www.chance4glory.com 13) BLACK SUEDE BAG Need a place to stash your gloves, scarf, hat, lipstick, sunglasses, wallet and…well, everything? No sense in looking bogged down this winter, when you can be bagged up with this stylish Linea Pelle® black suede bag with fringe. ($291.00) Cues, (509) 838-5837, www.cuesclothing.com

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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14) CONTEMPORARY DIAMONDS Diamonds are always the perfect gift! Simple, geometric designs are the latest jewelry trend. This diamond ring is stylish and affordable ($499.00), while the minimalist diamond bar necklace is great for layering with other necklaces! ($399.00) Jewelry Design Center, (509) 487-5905, www.jewelrydesigncenter.com 15) COPPER DOT WALL DÉCOR BY GLOBAL VIEWS The Dot Wall Décor is alive with individuality. Urban sheet metal combined with colored glass yields a hip rendition of geometrics inspired by midcentury modern design. It hangs as its own work of art or softens a gallery of rectangular prints for a harmonious display. 42”L x 34.5”W x 2.75”D. ($795.00). R. Alan Brown, Inc., (509-924-7200), www.ralanbrowninc.com 16) SNOOPY DOG HOUSE COOKIE JAR Guess who’s coming to Christmas? In honor of the 50th Anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas, Snoopy can’t wait to celebrate with you, but first he needs to catch a winter’s nap atop his sweet ceramic doghouse. Filled with fresh, festive flowers, this food-safe cookie jar is a hand-painted, hand-glazed Christmas collectible they’ll cherish forever! ($59.95) Beau K Florist, (509) 624-1301, www.beaukflorist.net 17) 2015 RAV4 XLE AWD Stylish, smart and adventurous. With expressive styling and a roomy, comfortable interior, RAV4 is decidedly refined and ready for adventure. For an added stocking stuffer, get a $200 Amazon Gift Card with each vehicle purchase! (MSRP $28,125.00/Sale $26,059.00) Larry H. Miller Toyota, (877) 413-5871, www.larryhmillertoyotaspokane.com 18) FRASSY DESIGNER WINE & BRACELET Nodland Cellars’ Frassy wine ($15.00/ bottle, also available by the case). Wine available at local area retailers and tasting rooms. Free bracelet with purchase, only at Spokane Valley and Downtown location tasting rooms. Nodland Cellars, (509) 927-7770, www.nodlandcellars.com.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

Fun! • Local! • Gifts! Boo Radley's

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19) CHILDREN’S GIFTS It’s not just Santa who can make a child’s Christmas delightful! Unload a sleigh full of children’s gifts, including these Star Wars Series Children’s Books. ($14.95), Colorful Sock-Toys ($16.00) or Safal Crafts Wool and Suede Handmade Children’s Slippers ($18.00). Decorum, (509) 340-9830, www.spokanedecorum.com 20) BUMBLE AND BUMBLE PRODUCTS Bumble and Bumble’s The Thickening Set “for dancing and prancing and donning big hairdos” ($30.00); The Hairdresser’s Set with “six feather light oils for a dashing hair transformation” ($25.00); The Prete Set “for second day styles that last (and last)” ($27.00) Free 8-piece sample size Bumble and Bumble hair products, with purchase of gift card. 14th and Grand Salon, (509) 624-7263, www.14thandgrandsalon.com 21) POOCH PAMPERING The perfect gift for the dog lover in your life, a LuxPup Club Membership provides unlimited bath services at Spokane’s most luxurious pet salon. Complete with discounts off full grooming services and a Himalayan Dog Chew, it’s the perfect way to give the gift of a pup that is healthy and clean in 2016. (Prices vary, depending on size of dog). DogLux Grooming Salon, (509) 315-4292, www.dogluxgrooming.com 22) VINEGAR AND OIL Put the epic back into Epicurean by creating your own masterpiece of a gift. Vinegar and oil are the perfect place to start, specifically with 25 Star Balsamic Vinegar and cold pressed Extra-Virgin Olive Oils. (Prices vary) Spice and Vine Mercantile, (509) 315-4036, www.spiceandvinemerc.com 62

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

23) LAY/N/GO COSMO MAKEUP BAG This 20” cosmetic bag holds all your beauty necessities in an easy cinch-and-grab layout and features a specially designed “lip” around the bag, which will keep your make-up from rolling off the counter or sink. A durable nylon cord and lock provide a quick and easy opening and closing system! Machine washable. ($29.95) The Make-Up Studio, (509) 455-7430, http://themakeupstudio.net 24) PILLOWS AND THROWS Give the gift of warmth this winter with eye-catching pillows and throws with a Scandinavian feel. Cable knit textiles add a cozy feel and visually complement any room. (starting at $49.00) Dania Furniture, (509) 624-7740, www.daniafurniture.com. 25) BMW 320I XDRIVE The new BMW 3 Series Sedan has been redesigned to serve your individual sport driving style. Sophisticated, gorgeous and drives like a dream, this is the gift everyone will be hoping for this year! (MSRP $37,495; Lease for $299 per month for 36 months with a down payment of $299.) BMW of Spokane, (509) 458-3288, www.bmwofspokane.com 26) WINTER WONDERLAND DECOR To create a brilliant winter scene inside your warm home, sprinkle Sparkle Christmas Snow over any object to give it a magical snowy effect! ($10.00) Old world winter comes to life with Santa in a sparkly snowy wonderland in vintage jar. ($18.00) Two Women Vintage Goods, (509) 624-4322, www.twowomenvintagegoods.com 27) SHELDON’S SHIELD SYRAH CANDLE Locally made with love by Sheldon’s sister, Suzy, these candles in recycled bottles of Sheldon’s Shield Syrah will warm your heart and your hands. ($22.00) Emvy Cellars + White Feather Boutique, (509) 838-7815, www.emvycellars.com 28) FRIGID FASHION Don’t let dropping temperatures bring down your fashion sense. This stylish City Jacket ($140.99) and Charcoal Look scarf ($20.00) will make you the forefront of a fashion storm front. White Lavender, (509) 290-6191, www.whitlavendarshop.com 64

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

We are a foodie’s best friend!

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PAINT. DRINK. HAVE FUN. Great for all occasions! • Girls Night Out • Date Night • Private Parties • Team Building Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with fun, friends, and fine art. Enjoy painting your own masterpiece while sipping on an enticing local wine or microbrew!

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29) ASSORTED HANDMADE CHOCOLATES Purchasing from local suppliers, to provide a premium product, Halletts Chocolates are Spokane’s sweetest secret and are a perfect holiday gift. From caramels to buttercreams, fudgies, truffles, nut clusters and more, this is a sweet gift. (Assorted individual sizes and packages, $5.95 to $37.95) Halletts Chocolates, (509) 474-0899, www.hallettschocolates.com 30) HOT DRINKS! A hot drink hits the spot every time, especially when it is a local sip! This gift includes Winter Solstice Blend Tea by Winterwoods Tea Company ($9.95 for 2oz.), Anvil Coffee ($11.95 for 1lb), and a Spokane Mug by local artist Chris Bovey ($11.95). Boo Radley’s/Atticus, (509) 456-7479, www.experiencespokane.com/booradleys 31) 2015 CIVIC LX A new look for a new generation! With a fierce new shape and distinctive cut lines, the all-new 10th-generation Civic has never looked better. Give the gift of drive. ($18,995.00 plus tax, title, doc, dealer-installed accessories). Larry H. Miller Honda, (855) 499-0851, www.larryhmillerhondaspokane.com 32) SHAVING SET Weldon Barber sets the standard in quality men’s grooming, so it is no surprise that their holiday gift selection includes only the finest items. Give the gift of luxury to the special men in your life, with this Edwin Jagger 3-piece, Ebony/Chrome, DE (double edge) shaving set ($160.00). Weldon Barber, (509) 456-8998, www.weldonbarber.com 33) PEPPERMINT HOPE SPA BLENDS BOTANICALS Hope comes in a package this year, in Spa Blends Botanicals’ Peppermint Hope Body Soufflé shea butter lotion, and Cleansing Gelee for hand and body. This gift pack also comes with a body brush and travel size Body Butter. Give the gift of hope! ($45.00) Spa Paradiso, (509) 747-3529, www.spaparadiso.com 66

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HEALTH BEAT

7 1 HE ALTH & FITNES S E X PO 74 HOLI DAY HEALTH 76 W I NTER WARMT H

SPOKANE’S FIRST HEALTH AND FITNESS EXPO by Justin Rundle

or the very first time, Spokane will have everything fitness, health and nutrition related under one roof, thanks to Spokane Health & Fitness Expo’s founder Chris Cody. Residents of Spokane, Eastern Washington and Idaho will be able to try and test the hottest trends before embarking on their New Year’s fitness resolutions. Discover more about this one-of-a-kind event, the founder of the expo and why Spokane is shaping up to be the new fitness mecca of the Northwest. Who is Chris Cody? Chris Cody has had a lifelong passion for health and fitness. This all started in his youth and continued through his high school and college education and into his post-collegiate career. As a student-athlete for Mead High School, he developed a strong passion for track. By his senior year, track became his focus and continued into his collegiate sport career at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU). Running for PLU motivated Chris to embrace strength training and better nutrition habits for optimal sports performance. His commitment to the weight room and better eating helped him reach all-time best personal records and enhanced his passion for the fitness world. Once Chris graduated college, he moved back to Spokane and continued his track career by coaching the Spokane Mercury

youth track team. Not only was this an outlet for kids interested in competitive track and field, but the Spokane Mercury also inspired better physical fitness habits for teens. Chris loved this aspect and wondered how he could shed light on more opportunities that aid in most health, fitness and nutrition goals. Soon after graduation, Chris met his wife, with whom he shares a unique bond for fitness and the gym. As gym-going regulars, they took on different fitness disciplines and made an active, healthy lifestyle a daily priority. After working with his father, who runs local RV and motorcycle expos, it dawned on Chris that Spokane needed a fitness expo. It had never been attempted, although there were plenty of local fit and health-minded opportunities in need of exposure. In addition, gyms, training studios, spas and nutrition brands could really bring something to the Spokane community if more people knew about them. From then, it was only a “when” not “if ” for the date of the inaugural Spokane Health & Fitness Expo.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

HEALTH BEAT

When and Where is the Spokane Health and Fitness Expo? The Spokane Health & Fitness Expo, sponsored by Foothills Lincoln Mazda, will be at the Spokane Fair Grounds, Saturday and Sunday, January 9-10. The expo will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Who and What Will be There? Just about everything related to fitness, nutrition and health services in Spokane will be present at the Expo. Spin, training studios, Pilates, Yoga, CrossFit and your favorite home and travel online training program (and now an app), Workout Anywhere, will be available to answer questions, demonstrate services and jumpstart your New Year resolutions. In addition, there will be major nutrition lines, supplements, healthy food options, recipes and healthy food catering services showcasing their services as well. Plus, health minded companies will be showing the power of massage, chiropractic and better health for a full fitness and health-minded event. Major Fitness Events for Your Viewing Pleasure On top of the phenomenal booths and information available for creating your best year yet, CrossFit 509 will be running the “Fittest at the Fairgrounds” competition on Saturday. This will be a fun, yet intense CrossFit Team competition, semi-resembling the CrossFit Games on ESPN. On Sunday, Newborn Jiu Jitsu hosts the Northwest Open Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Tournament, 72

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plus, there will be events by The Union, Purre Barre and A Personal Fit. In addition, fitness experts Ben Greenfield and Carol Dellinger will be running a motivational seminar discussing their fitness philosophies and approaches to better fitness and well-being. Last but not least, one can see the latest fitness apparel from Athleta and the hottest fitness equipment of 2016 thanks to Better Body Fitness. Why You Cannot Miss This Event! Beyond just a venue packed with everything associated with fitness, nutrition and health, you cannot miss the first inaugural Spokane Fitness Expo because it may be the event that helps you find your fitness groove. If you’ve ever struggled with getting started, or finding the right training

approach for your goals, you’ll most likely find what you’re looking for at this event. There’s never been anything like this in Spokane. Make 2016 your best year yet, and find the correct approach to living a happier, healthier lifestyle at the 2016 Spokane Health and Fitness Expo. For more information visit www. spokanehealthfitexpo.com Justin Rundle is a Certified Personal Trainer with eight years of training experience. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Whitworth University, and is the Mt. Spokane High School Strength and Conditioning Coach, the Mt. Spokane Varsity Defensive Line Coach and the co-owner of www.workoutanywhere.net (online personal training and dieting assistance).

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HEALTH BEAT HOLIDAY HEALTH

EASY TIPS TO AVOID CALORIE OVERLOAD DURING THE HOLIDAYS

FROM OFFICE PARTIES to neighborhood gatherings - during

the holidays, food is everywhere. Despite your healthiest of intentions, it’s not easy to eat right during the holiday season - no matter how determined you are to stay on track. Fear not! With a few simple tricks and a game plan, you can still enjoy your favorite festive foods without feeling like a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon by the time New Year’s Day rolls around. Don’t waste calories. Before you place anything on your plate, survey the entire spread of food options. Decide which foods are must haves and which are better left on the table. Not only will selective eating allow you to savor your choices even more, you won’t waste calories on anything you won’t fully enjoy. If you find yourself standing in front of a table overflowing with options, step away. Survey the scene. Don’t stand near the food and only use one plate. Throw it away when you’re finished so you’re not tempted to go back for unnecessary seconds. Snack smart. “When heading out to a holiday gathering, make sure to have a small snack before you leave home,” advises Nicki Briggs, MS, RDN, Food and Nutrition Expert for NatureBox. “Reach for one that offers a combo of protein and fiber, like nuts and dried fruit or hummus and whole grain crackers. It will keep you feeling full so that you’ll have the willpower to not overdo it at the buffet.” Don’t drink your calories. Opt for lower calorie beverages like water, tea, or coffee whenever possible. If you’re going to indulge in an alcoholic drink, stick with light beer or a wine spritzer

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instead of punches or mixed drinks. (Some holiday drinks can have up to 500 hidden calories!) And make sure to drink a glass of water between each beverage to help you stay hydrated and keep your drink count in check. Host with health in mind. When hosting your own holiday party, don’t skimp on the better-for-you options. Serve up feel-good foods like veggie trays and lean meats. If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, try a convenient healthy service like NatureBox, who will deliver holiday-ready options right to your door. NatureBox offers over 100 tasty snacks to choose from like Chocolate Peppermint Pretzel Pops, Cranberry Pepita Crisps, and Gingersnap Cookies so it’s never been easier to garner ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ from your guests without having to slave over a hot stove or make a trip to the store. Revamp your fitness routine. The holidays are a time to indulge in treats, but that doesn’t mean you need to forgo your fitness. Get some friends together and try a new workout class or make a point to get to the gym an extra time per week. Exercise releases endorphins, which will have you feeling extra cheery when you arrive at every holiday party. Don’t beat yourself up. If you end up overindulging at a party, don’t let it get you down. Use it as a learning experience and take steps to do better next time. Tomorrow is a new day and you’ll be motivated to make smarter and healthier choices. Follow these tips to feel your best during the holidays, while enjoying the food and company you love. -BPT

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

HEALTH BEAT WINTER WARMTH

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THROUGHOUT THE COLD DAYS of winter, homeowners are inclined to turn up the dial on their thermostat to maintain a warm, comfortable home. However, homeowners may not realize the presence of drafts and air leaks throughout the home can lead to temperature fluctuation and higher than normal heating bills. Drafts and gaps in insulation coverage can be a major contributor to increased utility bills, as well as inefficient performance of HVAC equipment. Conditioned air continually escapes the home, leaving the HVAC equipment to work overtime to compensate in an effort to reach the thermostat’s set temperature. Air leakage from walls, windows, ceilings and floors can account for up to 40 percent of the energy lost by your home, potentially costing homeowners thousands of dollars annually. Plus, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests air leakage contributes to potential moisture problems that can affect occupant health and the home’s durability. Homeowners can reduce air leakage in several ways, and the U.S. Department of Energy recommends homeowners take a comprehensive approach. First, detect where the air leaks are within your home. A certified HERS Rater will be able to help you identify such areas, as well as help assess your ventilation needs for indoor air quality. Once all sources of air leaks have been identified, air sealing techniques and materials can be applied. Caulking and weather-stripping

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are two of the most popular and common techniques that can help address air leaks. However, building experts will suggest considering solutions that go further in terms of air-sealing by selecting a highperformance building material like spray foam insulation. Spray foam insulation, such as Icynene, works well in all climates to seal the building and fill every gap to stop air leakage and help reduce the strain on HVAC equipment. As a solution that performs effectively year-round, spray foam insulation helps maintain a comfortable temperature while helping to control monthly heating and cooling expenses. Additionally, spray foam insulation helps minimize random airborne moisture and pollutants from entering the home, ideal for anyone who suffers from seasonal allergies once the snow melts and spring arrives. More information on how spray foam insulation can help homeowners minimize air leakage is available online at www.icynene.com. -BPT

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Navigating Retirement Living

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

N by Blythe Thimsen

owadays, “retirement home” is an archaic term replaced with the more appropriate “retirement communities.” An emphasis on community within the organization opens the opportunity for fellowship and a sense of belonging and identity, similar to the camaraderie found on college campuses. Levels of Service Retirees nowadays expect more than simply a glorified care setting, and they are looking for more than just a place to be housed. Where retirement homes were once places older residents were shipped off to, to sit out their final years, nowadays, retirement communities offer a wide spectrum of care options, as well as increased quality of life opportunities, all found under the umbrella of a larger retirement community. Independent Living – Geared toward the youngest and healthiest of the 55+ age group that is eligible to live at most retirement communities, Independent Living is a housing option for the retiree who does not need any assistance getting around or caring for themselves; however, they enjoy the services that come with living in a community. These vary from community to community, but can include lawn care and home maintenance, shuttle service, security monitoring, meals, housekeeping and 24-hour emergency response services. Ideal for: Younger, healthy retirees who may travel often and want the security and care offered by a retirement community, but still crave independence and are very much on-the-go.

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Assisted Living – “Assisted living facilities offer a housing alternative for older adults who may need help with dressing, bathing, eating and toileting, but do not require the intensive medical and nursing care provided in nursing homes,” according to eldercare.gov. Though assistance is provided, many assisted living scenarios allow for the resident to still have their own apartment or duplex, and the assistance comes to them. Ideal for: Older adults who could benefit from some assistance with their daily activities, health care management and monitoring, as well as medication reminders. They may be walking that fine line between being not entirely independent, but not ready for fulltime care. Skilled Nursing – This level of care offers 24-hour nursing care. Services might include medication dispensing, wound management, pain management, nursing care and rehabilitation services. Ideal for: A resident who has recently had surgery or an injury, and is not yet ready to return to their regular residence. Usually the nursing

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Communities (CCRC) accredited by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC) between Seattle and Minneapolis. A CCRC is a community that offers several levels of care on one campus. According to retirment.org, “Having several levels of care available on campus is an incredible benefit – it provides you with the security of knowing that if you need Assisted Living, Memory Care or Skilled Nursing Care at some point in the future, you won’t have to move to another community.” One of the most important things to take into consideration when researching retirement communities is what services are provided for aging in place. Ask, “Does this community meet my needs now and will it 10 years from now? Will this community help me stay connected with my friends, family, and physicians?” team works closely with the resident’s personal Researching the available housing physician and family to develop a care regime. and care options within a retirement community will help you match your needs Memory Care Services – For residents with the services offered from different who have memory loss, whether from communities. Knowing that your needs Alzheimer’s, or another form of will change as you age should dementia, specialized care is also be a factor to consider. needed. Many retirement Some communities are communities have a designed to cater to memory care wing your needs once you with specially skilled Retirement living means are a resident. caregivers able to having the life you want “In addition to cater to the needs Cottage Triplex of this very special to have, with as many independent group. Ideal for: choices as possible, and homes, Residents who have independent been diagnosed with being able to call the apartments and Alzheimer’s or another place you live “home” assisted living form of dementia, who apartments, Orchard need round the clock care, Crest has an option to which is too great for a family add assisted living to any to do on their own. independent apartment when you need more help rather than having to The Local Retirement Scene move to another apartment within our Rockwood Retirement, in Spokane, community,” says Dianna Carter, director offers the only Continuing Care Retirement

Apartments include: Large 1 & 2 Bed/2Bath, Full Kitchen w/Appliances, Washer and Dryer in each unit.

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of commnity relations for Orchard Crest. “This benefits our residents in several ways. When someone moves to Orchard Crest not needing any assistance they can add service when they need more help without moving physically and stay active with all their friends and favorite activities without interruption.” Financial Impact According to Freeretirmentreport. com, “The convenience and reliability of retirement communities doesn’t come cheaply. Monthly fees usually start at around $2,000 or more depending on the type of residence, medical care, food, and assistance that the community provides in addition to the five-figure-plus entry fee. Just as you’ll have to pass a physical and mental health screening, you’ll often also have to pass a financial screening to make sure that your assets can cover the costs of living in the retirement community you choose.” In addition to the monthly fees, each retirement community has their own policy when it comes to buying and selling homes within the community. It is important to know how much of the sale price you or your family will be able to recoup, should you decide to sell the home.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

“Rockwood Lane is unique in that Evergreen Fountains, a locally owned when you move here you are making an and managed senior living community, investment for yourself and your family,” states on their website that they are says Jason Finley, assistant property “dedicated to offering enhanced senior manager, Rockwood Lane Retirement living in a community environment while Community. “After a unit is purchased, the encouraging our residents to enjoy their resident, or the resident’s family, is afforded own independent lifestyle centered on the opportunity to sell the unit at any time personal wellness, physical, mental and and retain 90 percent of the selling spiritual health.” That is an example of price.” considering the whole person, It is not just your when addressing how to financial picture that live in the retirement you should take into years. Navigation is the key account, but that Also locally of the retirement owned, Broadway to successful retirement community you Court Estates, living, and the best way are considering, says, “Without as well. You want question there to navigate through the to know that your is a strong sense choices is to talk to those investment is one of family among that will be well both our staff and who have been down the cared for and is long our residents. We path. term – or at least as long work together, we play as you need it to be – at an together, we laugh together, organization that meets your and we cry together. People very needs. Some find it appealing to know sincerely care about one another. There they are moving to a community where is a feeling not found in large, corporateall ownership and management is right on owned retirement centers.” campus, meaning decisions can be made Amenities locally and quickly, rather than having to With such serious topics and levels of call corporate headquarters. care and financial impact, it is easy to forget that one of the key reasons to move to a retirement communities is the amenities they provide and the ways in which it can make life better. Find a place that is going to allow you live and celebrate retirement, a chance to grow and make new friends and enjoy new experiences. If you are not excited about your transition into retirement living then you may be at the wrong facility. “Our amazing activities department has three full time employees working through two full calendars: activities and fitness,” says Jordan. “You will not find another retirement community with so many activities, community involvement projects, and events under one roof!”

Retirement living means having the life you want to have with as many choices as possible and being able to call the place you live “home.” Even when people are eager to move to a new place, and even when it is an exciting adventure, there can still come with it a time of mourning the home that was. “I realized the stress and emotional energy that accompanies the transition from one home to another represents the loss of independence, and brings a sense of sadness,” says Kathy Bryant. Through this realization, she strives to “really honor the seniors to help them move on their terms.” This is what inspired Bryant’s branded catchphrase: “Your Life. Your Move. Your Terms.” Bryant’s best advice to anyone who is approaching the season of needing to make a switch to a retirement living situation is simple. “Be proactive and come up with a plan before it becomes a crisis,” she says. “If you never are proactive and you don’t know where you want to go, to me, that is the worst thing that could happen.” Rather than waiting until the death of a partner, or until mobility and health levels are diminished, it is best to plan ahead, and have the luxury of time to be able to pick where you want to move, rather than finding yourself in a spot where you have to move quickly, and you may pick a place that is not the best match for your needs, interests or lifestyle.” There is more than just where to live to what makes up retirement living. As we, or as our loved ones, age, there are so many unexpected situations that arise or concerns that need to be addressed. Good Samaritan Spokane, located in Spokane, provides a resource on their website, with an archive of timely topics for seniors. Topics include diet, faith, family caregivers, memory care, senior advocacy, senior care services, well being. This resource allows you to learn more about topics within the category of retirement living long before any services may be needed. When a next level of care is needed, Good Samaritan offers a

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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variety of services, including home and community services, rehab and skilled care services, and senior living options. Armed with the education provided by their online resources, you will be able to make a more informed and confident decision about the next step in your retirement living choice. Retirement living doesn’t always include moving into a retirement community. After all, there is no sweeter word than “home,” and if someone wants to stay in their own home, there are options to do so. According to Sennior Helpers of Spokane president and agency director Tiffany Murphy, “Senior Helpers’ caregivers and support team have helped thousands of families deal with the challenges that come with aging and disease. Our team carefully designs an individualized care plan that will support and improve one’s quality of life to ensure that specific needs and goals are met with the utmost care. Senior Helpers provides a variety of services, including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal and companion care, “peace of mind” visits (one hour visits), post-surgery care, 24 hour live-in care, and much more.” With so many options it is smart to reach out to someone fluent in the language and the unique nuances of senior and retirement living. An option like Choice Advisory Service is selfdescribed on their website as “provides personalized referrals for senior housing, senior care, and in-home care services by matching your specific needs with the most suitable resources in your area.” Trained advisors can accompany you on visits to different communities and agencies, or they can reach out for you. Working with an organization like Choice takes the burden off of your shoulders, and gives you confidence that someone with experience in this area can help you navigate your way through retirement living. Navigation is the key to successful retirement living, and the best way to navigate through the choices is to talk to those who have been down the path. Together, with a detailed map, the journey can be an adventure!

EXL REALTY, LLC - KATHY BRYANT 926 S. Monroe Street, Suite B, Spokane, WA 99201 | 509.993.3538 kathy@kathybryanthomes.com | www.kathybryanthomes.com

BUSINESS CLOSE-UPS

KNOWING THE VALUE OF HOME

fter a childhood of frequent military-family moves, then 20 years in the financial industry, Kathy Bryant is uniquely positioned to know the all-encompassing value of home. She specializes in aiding seniors and their families downsizing from long-term family homes. Kathy experienced this first hand when she helped her own mother move, becoming deeply aware of the need for specialization in this sensitive area of real estate. One of the biggest challenges Kathy faces is helping seniors make the decision to pull the trigger on their own terms. She realizes real estate is a constantly changing industry. Helping clients align the expectations of an emotional adjustment with the best time to take a home to market is a difficult and serious aspect of her job. Over the years Kathy has learned how important it is for families to be proactive in developing a plan before a crisis situation forces their hand. Her program, “Your life - Your Move - Your terms” has been specifically designed for clients to maintain more control over their late-life decisions. Kathy confesses, “Helping seniors and their families make what might be their final move a stress-free and even bright experience, is so rewarding.” It is a job “well done” when a transaction is completed to the satisfaction of all parties involved. The wisdom and experience of an insightful and caring professional can make all the difference. Kathy Bryant, Broker at EXL Realty, is a partner willing to listen, work hard for you, and find the most satisfactory solution.

EVERGREEN FOUNTAINS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY “WHERE LIVING WELL IS A WAY OF LIFE”

1201 North Evergreen Road, Spokane Valley, WA www.evergreenfountains.com | 509.922.3100 or 866.517.1201

vergreen Fountains embraces the philosophy of “Living Well” as a way of life. They provide enhanced senior living in a community environment where residents enjoy their own independent lifestyle. It is their mission to “promote and enhance residents’ wellness and vitality.” Evergreen Fountains features multiple lifestyle choices and offer a variety of amenities and services to enhance the senior living experience including Independent Living Suites, Light Assisted Living, Assisted Living Apartments and Cottage Homes. The community’s Wellness Initiative is the focal point of their philosophy. The “Health in Motion” program inspires residents to have fun, be more active, improve their health and enjoy life to the fullest extent possible. The community’s person-centered approach considers the “whole” person and is designed to maintain and enhance residents’ current levels of physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellness. Each resident is a member of Evergreen’s Wellness & Fitness Center. The Fitness Center features certified instructors, equipment designed specifically for seniors ranging from cardio to strength training machines. Evergreen Fountains is certified by the Arthritis Foundation. They offer Water Aerobics, Water Balance and Arthritis Walking programs in their heated therapy pool and their spa is a wonderful place to relax. Land programs include Sit and Move, Chair Yoga, Tai Chi, Weights and Balance and a Walking program. Residents enjoy activities and social events, beautiful restaurant style dining rooms, Vasi’s Bistro, Athena’s Cabaret, Movie Theater, Chapel, Libraries, Sports and Game Room, Beauty Salon, Activity Rooms, Raised Garden Beds, weekly housekeeping and scheduled transportation. Gregory and Prokey Arger, lifetime Spokane Valley residents, are the owners and developers of Evergreen Fountains. They have provided an outstanding community and have carefully considered every detail for Evergreen Fountains residents’ comfort, well-being, convenience and enjoyment. Evergreen Fountains is not just where you live, it’s a way of life!

The

Upside of Downsizing by Sarah Hauge photography by Oliver Irwin

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

”In this home, the outside decorates the inside,” says Thompson.

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“T

his is me downsizing,” says retiree Linda Thompson*, looking around her cozy and modern South Hill home. After living for 40 years in a rancher on the Palouse, Thompson was ready for a change: a home in town near her children and grandchildren, with minimal maintenance and up-to-date amenities. She first thought of a condo, but after searching and not finding exactly what she was looking for, Thompson turned to Matthew Collins, principal at local design firm Uptic Studios and a longtime friend, to design a new home. To identify Thompson’s needs and wants, the team at Uptic—primarily Matthew and Julie Collins, an interior designer at Uptic and Matthew’s wife—got to know her lifestyle and preferences by making several site visits together. Questions that guided the process were basic, but telling: What do you want to see when you wake up in the morning? Where do you drop your keys when you walk in the door? Piecing together the narrative of a homeowner’s day-to-day life is “a bit like storytelling,” says Matthew Collins. “It should be fun. We try to make it fun.” Through this process, they came up with a vision for a “prairie-style residence with nice views and lots of wood in the interiors,” with “a nice, modern space plan for her lifestyle,” he says. The resulting home is both efficient and lovely, with a modest footprint that’s jam-packed with features exactly suited to Thompson’s needs and lifestyle. Material choices like wood, steel (rusting organically on the exterior), glass, concrete and rock, plus interior walls painted in white and putty tones, combine to create a soothing backdrop of neutrals. Color comes in through artwork and accessories, and, most notably, the home’s surrounding foliage, which is showcased through wrap-around windows. “In this home, the outside decorates the inside,” says Thompson. It

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“I came from the country, and I feel like I live in a tree house,” says the homeowner of her new home.

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

has all the conveniences of being located in a bustling neighborhood near stores and restaurants, but the home itself is peaceful and serene. “I came from the country, and I feel like I live in a tree house,” she says. Though it certainly does have a tree house feel, in talking about the home, Collins also employs two apt boat metaphors. One refers to visuals: though the environment is suburban, there are views to the outdoors wherever possible to take advantage of the surroundings, “kind of like a boat parked in a marina,” he says. Decks and patios further connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. The second boat metaphor focuses on the fact that “every square inch of a boat is useful space—there’s a place for everything, and everything has its place,” Collins says. This house has built-ins and cabinetry units in nearly every room, plus closet organization systems and plenty of display shelving. This not only streamlines the look of the home but also gives Thompson a place to conceal anything she wants to tuck away and celebrate favorite items, like artwork, pottery and family photographs. The home is well lit, with a combination of task lighting, recessed lighting, in-wall sconces, uplighting, and pendants, plus the natural light from the home’s many windows. Good lighting and good design is a great combination. “All of the things I had all of the sudden kind of looked better in this house,” Thompson says. After decades in another home, Thompson turned to Julie Collins for help on editing her possessions, deciding what to keep from her previous residence and what to purchase new. Careful selections led to the home’s collected feel, with newer modern pieces alongside furnishings and accessories she’s had for years. Reupholstered arm chairs and a table that were once Thompson’s father’s are mixed with more contemporary selections picked up at places like R. Alan Brown, West Elm and Room and Board. Some of the artwork was rented and then purchased through the Museum of Arts and Culture’s rental

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

The newly landscaped yard will yield tall grasses that border the concrete walkway and clean lined entrance to the home.

program; Thompson settled on three gorgeous landscapes of the Palouse, which bring to mind the many years she lived there. “The pictures fit in my house so well, and they are so soothing,” she says. Hanging in her home’s entryway is a painting she’s had for years of herself and her children on a ranch, gathered with horses near a fence. Thompson loves her “little bits of country,” as she phrases it. These touches pop up elsewhere through small details like cowhide textiles and a collection of pig figurines in the powder room. From the outside, the home has a welcome, clean-lined look, with a concrete walkway and built-in concrete planters filled with tall grasses that lead the way to the home’s front door and entryway. Here, you are met with a spot where you can drop your coat on the Room and Board coat rack, stop off at the powder room (home of Thompson’s fun collection of pigs) with its textured, horizontally laid tiles, and continue down the hallway into the spacious, open great room. Wall-to-wall windows encircle the top of the high-ceilinged room, which is covered in wood planks that extend, uninterrupted, to the exterior roof overhangs. The ample use of wood, on the ceilings, floors, cabinetry and surrounding the windows and doors lends great warmth to the space and perfectly complements the home’s clean lines. The neutral hues are broken up by spots of color, like the patterned area rugs that once covered the floors of Thompson’s previous home. The living room sofa faces the fireplace, with a concrete hearth

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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An upper level of windows adds to the light and open feel of the living space (above and below)/

and a tile surround, which is adjacent to a cabinetry unit with built-in shelving surrounding the television. The dining area has a cleanlined wood table—which can extend to seat large groups— paired with leather chairs. A large pendant fixture hanging here provides just the right light for dining ambiance. A built-in buffet along the dining room wall has cabinetry beneath to store china and other necessities; display space above it is perfectly lit to showcase artwork. On the wall at the other end of the dining table is a built-in bar, with stonework that repeats the tiling in the fireplace surround, glass-front cabinetry, open shelving, and a concrete countertop. Inside the base cabinets (designed to open with a push-release system rather

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Where building relationships is just as important as the projects we build than pulls, to keep the cabinet fronts clean and subtly distinguished from those in the nearby kitchen) are built-in racks for red wine storage. The wine refrigerator here provides plenty of room for anything that needs to be chilled. “I just can’t believe how well planned it is,” says Thompson of her home. At about 2,500 square feet, it works as well for one person as it does when she’s entertaining friends, hosting big groups for holidays or having her grandchildren over for sleepovers—all of which she does regularly. With an open floor plan, there’s more than enough room for everyone to cook, eat, play or simply relax. “It’s just such a nice space to entertain,” she says. The kitchen is beautiful and functional. The spacious island is topped with butcher block with white base cabinetry, and open shelving on one end for storage and display. Hanging above the island are three glass pendant lights shaped like upside down wine glasses. A row of sleek white barstools turns the island into the perfect spot for casual dining, or chatting with the cook. The perimeter walls of the kitchen have a combination of open shelving and closed cabinets, with concrete countertops and warm wood cabinetry. The stainless steel appliances include double ovens and a Blue Star range. A shelf by the oven is an ideal place to stash cookbooks and display pottery created by a good friend. “You know what new kitchens are like,” Thompson says, very pleased with how well the space functions. “Everything I need is right at my fingertips.” Everyday dishes and glassware are on open shelves; Thompson says she fortunately already had dishes in the color scheme, but recently upgraded some of her glassware. “Since things are on display, you kind of want them to look a little better,” she explains. Just above the sink, the windows open out, serving as a pass-through to the concrete countertop just outside, where there is a row of bar stools. Thompson’s grandchildren perch on these seats when the weather is nice, waiting for their grandmother to pass them

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Island seating provides a front row view for guests to watch the action in the kitchen, as well as providing additional dining spots.

drinks and snacks while they play outside. The home is full of clever touches that marry beauty and function. Take the room that’s been dubbed the “navigation station” just off the kitchen with a long butcher block countertop that serves as desk space, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry to conceal everything from pantry items to wrapping paper to cleaning supplies, built-in mail slots to stash bills and paperwork, and a window that opens onto an herb garden. Placing a window box herb garden here is not only convenient for Thompson—who can water and pluck sprigs of rosemary or oregano without having to set foot outside—but a way to make the structure more attractive. “It’s a great spot to have an herb garden off the kitchen pantry area, but it also provides a visual screen for the neighbor,” says Collins. “Rather than looking at the side of someone’s building, you’re looking at the garden.” Also on the main floor is the master suite, a soothing space with wool carpet, an upholstered bed, built-in cabinetry, and a walk-in closet fully outfitted for clothing storage. “I call this my princess room,” Thompson says of the lush space. The master bath has a stand alone tub, a vanity with built-in cabinetry and concrete countertops, and a walk-in doorless shower with a deep shelf. It’s perfectly luxurious, and perfectly low-maintenance. “No squeegeeing!” Thompson says happily. Floor-to-ceiling tile laid horizontally makes the room seem even bigger than it is, and a picture window (with an adjustable shade to provide just the right amount of privacy) lets in lots of light and tree views. The bedroom’s exterior door

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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opens onto a private patio area. The amount of light in the bedroom is remarkable, thanks largely to the windows that wrap the upper portion of the space, the same design element used in the main living area. Thompson names mornings as some of her favorite times in the house. “I like waking up in the morning and walking out of my bedroom,” says Thompson. With the way the windows are placed, “I get the indoors and the outdoors at the same time, and I say, ‘Wow, I love it here.’” Also on the main story is the laundry and mudroom, offering tons of built-in storage and plenty of windows; this room connects to the two-car garage. This workhorse space is another example of how well the Uptic

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team worked to fulfill Thompson’s unique requests for the home, like ample room to hang nice clothes to dry. Thompson happily points out the long rack designated for this task; it serves the dual purpose of extra room to store guest coats when she entertains. A staircase with a beautiful wood and metal railing lit with in-wall sconces leads down to the home’s lower story, a bright daylight basement where there’s plenty of space for Thompson’s grandchildren to play in the family room. A glass sliding door opens onto the back yard and patio area. Comfortable and sleek furnishings are mixed well here, with a cozy couch and a modern tulip-style table. Two guest bedrooms with built-in closet and cabinetry

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The windows throughout the home not only flood the house with daylight, but also offer glimpses into the house at dusk, showcasing the openess of the floorplan.

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systems provide lots of storage behind closed doors. The lower level bathroom has floor-toceiling white subway tile with high-contrast dark grout, a glass-walled shower, and a concrete countertop, all of it warmed up with the wood tones of the vanity. Concrete floors run through the downstairs space. Just off the family room is a surprisingly large storage room where Thompson can keep off-season items, suitcases and anything else that needs to be tucked away. The home is designed to take advantage of the latest technology, using an iPad to control the electrical and entertainment systems. Radiant heat flooring keeps things cozy. There are also three Lennox air conditioning units; the home’s heat pump sits outside, freeing up

valuable floor space indoors. The house’s exterior is covered in wood, metal, and concrete. Lowmaintenance landscaping provides a lot of aesthetic appeal without leaving Thompson with too much upkeep— although she’s willing to take on what she can, mowing the two sections of grass with her push lawnmower. “My father mowed with a push mower well into his 80s,” she says with a laugh, figuring that she can certainly do the same. When she’s out in the yard or peeking out her home’s windows, she can see neighbors out for walks and hear the sounds of children playing. “I like the mix in the neighborhood,” she says. “I’m downsizing, but I like having the kids around.” Thompson has found a lot of joy along the way to creating her new home. “It was really fun,” she says. “I enjoyed every minute of it. I didn’t find it to be stressful.” “There’s nothing I don’t like,” she adds, looking around. “I don’t think I’d do anything differently. *name changed for privacy CREDITS: Matthew Collins (architect), Julie Collins (interior designer), and Luke Grimsrud (project manager), Uptic Studios Dave Parsons, Parsons Construction DCI Engineers Concrete Habitat Matt Barton, Coppercreek Landscaping Simioni’s Warm Floors, Inc. Noise Frog Coyote Creek Cabinets Cabinet Systems Mr. Window

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HOMESTYLES CLOSET SYSTEMS & GARAGES

The Home

Closet Systems and Garages by Robin Bishop

ORGANIZING CLOSETS,

garages or any area of your home, requires time and effort. Every item in your project room needs to be touched to make a decision—keep, give away (sell) or throw out. If you haven’t worn it, used it, thought about or worked on it in the past year, throw it out. What survives wins the right to be place in the newly organized space. Whether you are a DIY type that plans to utilize repurposed items to create your own funky and functional space, or someone that chooses to leave it to the pros, organizing the new space takes a little planning, engineering and more than a small share of creativity. Pinterest has proven to be the “mother load” for DIY ideas. There are dozens of how-to sites on line just waiting to be plundered. Here is a logical checklist from realsimple.com with suggestions on how to tackle to re-stocking your closet spaces regardless of the organizer system. • Decide what to store. Let frequency of use and seasonality be your guide on how to store your clothes and accessories. •Organize hanging items by color. Sleeve length then shade. Like items with like items makes quick dressing options more clear. • Choose your hanger. The closet will look neater if you choose just one type of hanger— wood, wire, or plastic.

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• Create zones. A low rod holds tops and skirts; an eye-level pole, dresses; and a high bar, shirts and suits. A high shelf works fine for out-of-season shoes and sweaters. • Arrange folded items. On shelves, the heavier items would be at the bottom of the pile, lighter ones at the top. Arrange garments by function (workout gear, business, casual) then by color (white to nude to bright colors to black). If shelf space is limited, consider using part of your rod space to hang a canvas “cubby” hanger. • Get a garment bag. Garment bags are a great way to store seasonal or special occasion items that rarely get used. • Deal with dry cleaning. Remove clothes from dry-cleaning bags as soon as you get home, and hang your clothes on proper hangers. Return the wire hangers to the dry cleaner for reuse. • Clean up odds and ends. Store bags, belts, ties, scarves, and other accessories in plain sight on hooks or racks, which can be attached to the inside of your closet door. • Contain what doesn’t hang. Use containers—consider a matching set of baskets—to hold accessories and clothing that can’t be hung (socks, undergarments, scarves, hats). • Pick a system for storing shoes. Choose between a rack on the floor, hanging organizers, see-through plastic boxes, or original shoeboxes with photos stapled to them. Stow shoes you don’t wear frequently in boxes on a high shelf, in another closet, or under your bed. These tips can actually be easily modified to apply to garage organization, as well. As far as prefabricated and customized organizer systems, there are many on the market that allow for individual space for just about everything you could need in your closet or garage. Every “system” has its own distinct installation methodology, accessories and specialized designs. Garage organizers are trending toward ultra clean, bright, durable materials with built in lighting and glass doors for easy visibility. There are also many floor-covering options for the garage to facilitate easy cleaning, long-life and a pleasing aesthetic. If you find the idea overwhelming, give the professionals at California Closets in the Spokane Valley a call or visit their new showroom at 506 North Sullivan to get some ideas.

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REAL ESTATE WINTER HOME SALE

Sell your home this winter? Reduce competition, stress

STOP WAITING - go ahead and put your home on the market. Even now, with

temperatures dropping, airports bustling and retailers prepping Black Friday deals, it’s a good time to sell. In fact, Greg Jaeger, vice president at USAA Bank and former real estate agent, says waiting could decrease potential buyers, especially if mortgage rates increase soon and price some out of the market. Delaying a sale also could increase your competition and stress. “Those who sell their homes in the winter can reap financial and emotional benefits since they are not waiting until everyone else is trying to sell,” Jaeger says. Less Competition Your home has a greater chance of standing out from the crowd in the winter months, December through February. In the summer, you have to compete with other sellers looking

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to lure buyers expecting deals. To be sure, sales trends are different among colder and warmer states. And summer is often a more ideal time for families with young children to plan moves before school starts. However, you may be overlooking another group of buyers, Jaeger said. “During the summer, buyers look like families. In the winter they look like investors,” he said. Sellers often are able to ask more for their homes in winter, Jaeger said. A study by

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Magnificent 1913 2-story Tudor Rockwood Mansion. New custom cabinetry complements the original woodwork. Grand formal library boasts Englenook FP. Epicurean island kitchen features rainforest slab marble. Luxurious master suite retreat with private deck and a stunning 2nd master suite both on upper level. Olmsted Bros. inspired gardens w/in-ground pool & tennis court. 5 Bedrooms, 6 Baths $1,492,000

Beautifully detailed & pristine throughout. Grand, entertaining sized LR includes elegant marble fireplace and picture window. Formal DR opens to covered patio. Nostalgic kitchen with eating nook. Cherry paneled library/den features black marble FP. Main floor utilities. Lower level boasts oversized family room & hobby/dark room. Spacious corner lot with circular driveway & park like landscaping. 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $525,000

Custom Two-Story with stunning appointments. Grand entry features gorgeous hardwood floors. Cook's island kitchen offers granite & tile, stainless steel appliances including gas range opens to great room. Main floor master boasts dual vanities & walk-in closet. Upper level includes 2 BRs & full bath. Lower level includes rec. room & media room. Fenced backyard borders community park. 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $500,000

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Gorgeous Greenbluff Contemporary sited on over 10 pastoral acres with Peone Prairie views. Updated island kitchen features quartz counter tops & stainless steel appliances. Oversized master suite boasts FP, luxury bath w/dual vanities, jetted garden tub & walk-in shower. 3 addt'l BRs & full bath. Lower Level includes rec room, non-conforming BR & hobby room. 3 car garage. Good well & crop land. Mead Schools. 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $499,000

Exceptional Two-Story features custom detailing & upgrades throughout. Open floor plan. Spacious formal living room with wall of windows. Cook's island kitchen with eating area adjoins family room. Luxurious master suite includes garden tub & private deck. Upper level boasts 4 total bedrooms. Finished walkout lower level. Oversized 3 car garage. Friendly deer neighbors & river views! 6 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $460,000

Over 10 panoramic view acres. Elegant formal living room with library alcove. Formal dining room with built-in cherry buffet. European kitchen features gas range, hardwood plank floors, adjoining sun room & family room with gas fireplace. Walkout lower level boasts family room w/gas fireplace, kitchenette with gas range, theater room. Outdoor shop with indoor & RV parking. Special solar panel with grid feedback. 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $450,000

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Magnificent estate sited on enchanting garden filled double lot in historic Cliff Park. Stunning old world charm features beamed ceilings & gleaming hardwoods. Renovations include kitchen island w/ cherry cabinets & granite counters. Elegant living & formal dining room perfect for entertaining. Master bedroom boasts imported chandelier. Carson not included. 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths $450,000

Gorgeous Raised Rancher sited on territorial view lot. Formal living & dining rooms. Cook's island kitchen with quartz counters, updated gas range & pantry opens to great room with gas fireplace & slider to patio. Luxe master suite with tiled shower & jetted tub. Lower level features bedroom & rec room could be 4th BR. 3 car garage with storage. Stunning backyard. Close to shopping & conveniences. 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths $329,000

Spectacular Views from this gorgeous one-story home. Formal living and dining rooms. Cook's kitchen boasts gas range, eating bar, walk-in pantry & skylight. Family room with gas fireplace opens to covered deck. Master suite with double sink vanity, jetted tub and double closets. Parklike yard. Newer roof. New exterior paint. 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths $325,000

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Gorgeous George Paras Craftsman! Elegant Shabby Chic interior with designer tones throughout. Open floor plan features great room w/soaring ceilings & gas FP. Cook's kitchen boasts granite countertops & upgraded stainless steel appliances. Lux master suite with double sinks & walk-in closet. Laundry room & extra storage. Fabulous patio & landscaping. Fenced backyard. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths $314,500

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Airway Heights office set-up located on nearly an acre. Office break room with mini-kitchen, map room and large storage area. Chain link fenced. Public water. Convenient location. Contract terms available. $195,000

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Mint Condition Duplex close to hospitals & downtown. Each updated unit features 2 bedrooms, full bath, nostalgic kitchen, living room, dining area and stacking washer & dryer. Recent updating includes new vinyl siding, new windows, new carpeting, updated bathrooms and new side fence. 4 parking spaces. Fenced backyard. Great tenants. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths $139,900

REAL ESTATE WINTER HOME SALE

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online brokerage firm Redfin found average sellers earn above their asking price December through March than they do in the summer months. In addition, in winter months a home is on the market for an average of 26 days, compared to 33 days in nonwinter seasons, according to Redfin’s data. Less Stress There’s a certain ecosystem to the home buying process, which includes realtors, home inspectors, appraisers, the title company and the bank processing the loan. That ecosystem is tense when activity is the busiest, Jaeger said. In peak buying season, there’s overwhelming demand to process transactions, with potentially an overwhelmed system for processing them. “You can help reduce the typical home buying and selling stress by selling your home during the winter ‘shoulder season’ and working with experts who really understand your needs,” he said. Those needs often are more

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complex when the military is involved. While the military’s Permanent Change of Station season typically prompts many military families to sell their homes during the busy summer months, duty can call in the winter too. “Working with an experienced real estate agent, such as a USAA Real Estate Rewards Network agent who focuses on serving the military community, can help keep extra stress at bay,” he said. To learn more or to find a USAA Real Estate Rewards Network agent near you, visit usaa.com/findanagent. USAA Real Estate Rewards Network is offered by USAA Relocation Services, Inc., a licensed real estate broker and subsidiary of USAA Federal Savings Bank. Program may be unavailable for employersponsored relocations. Not available for transactions in Iowa or outside the U.S. This is not a solicitation if you are already represented by a real estate broker. (BPT)

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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METRO TALK CELL TOWERS

CELL

TOWER BATTLES by Paul K. Haeder photo by Makenna Haeder

You Can’t Fight City Hall? If anyone has been keeping an eye on rare articles printed in the Spokane daily and weekly papers, the reader might have seen the news about one neighborhood – Grandview-Thorpe – losing the fight to stop Verizon Wireless from building a cell tower in their community, while another neighborhood group –CliffCannon – helped put monkey wrenches (tiny ones) into the gear work of the cell phone-telecommunication engines. Neighborhoods versus big telecommunications companies are a modern day David versus Goliath scenario. In one local case, David is Patricia Hansen

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and Goliath is the FCC and AT&T. Perseverance, legal eagles and timing are factors in Hansen’s fight to keep telecommunication companies like T-Mobile, Verizon, Comcast and AT&T at bay. Specifically, she is fighting to keep a stand-alone cell tower from being constructed in her neighborhood. “I woke up this morning, looking into the mirror, and realized that it’s taken twenty-two months, and it’s almost done,” says Hansen, a resident of the Cliff-Cannon neighborhood, who has fought tooth and nail against the big boys of AT&T to keep a 60-foot tower from being built near her 14th and Lincoln home. The Feds Make Up the Rules as Telecommunications Industry Grows What’s been in play for Spokane and hundreds of other cities is the FCC and the industry friendly Telecommunications Act. For Jake Brooks, a lawyer working on the city ordinance that was heard by the Spokane Plan Commission October 14, just getting a cell phone carrier to follow a process and meeting community standards is a big lift. Brooks, Hansen and others now ensconced in the radio frequency arena do not see

many ways to tackle an industry that has been writing our laws and regulations for decades. Proving AT&T, for example, has looked at all existing structures and considered all other more stealth technologies they could use instead of building a new tower is tough. Hansen and Brooks see a bigger problem, though. When a carrier says there is a “gap” in coverage and that more signal strength needs to be engineered, it’s difficult to get objective radio frequency engineers to study, let alone challenge those assertions. In the end, it’s all down to telecommunication giants citing proprietary and domain shields; hence, the one-sided battle. Hansen and others consider it almost impossible to get an inside look at what Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T are really looking at in terms of coverage gaps and future demands. But Hansen and her fellow fighters were persistent, and did what some considered impossible: they got an emergency sixmonth moratorium on construction of the cell tower. The city hemmed and hawed about getting sued if an emergency moratorium, albeit temporary, were to be put in place, but the council voted for one, in March 2015. The six-month proviso was extended once during the process, and $30,000 from the city’s coffers has been ponied up to hire a Denver consultant to help meet with stakeholder groups and draft up an ordinance. BattlesWon…OneCitizenataTime This is a citywide battle, affecting all the neighborhoods, and it’s turned into a one-woman phalanx against some

retrograde and fearful characters on all ends of the issue. The proposed tower in Hansen’s neighborhood, near Bennidito’s Pizza, was bandied about for months. Because she felt there was no support to even participate in the process as a citizen, she took it upon herself to hire David Brickline, attorney at law. Hansen calls it the “little bluebird call” that started the snowball rolling. “I got a phone message telling me there’s something I need to see. Somebody at City Hall [the bluebird] left the message. I asked the person to forward the documents, but they wanted no paper trail. An envelope was dropped off at my address.” Bad press is good for fights like these at the citizen level, Hansen says. American Tower Corporation is the tower construction outfit in question, and AT&T requested another pathway to shunt the negative press. The emergency moratorium then was proposed. For the 26-year-old Brooks, who hails from Portland, the so-called battle has had its positives. Through the entire unfolding of Hansen first hiring Brickline’s firm then onward with the stakeholder meetings and discussions with each council member, including outgoing Mike Allen and Jon Snyder, then a moratorium and then new proposed ordinance, Brooks sees hope. No matter how powerful large corporations are as they flaunt the unfair tools the FCC has gifted them – notably this a very industry-friendly overarching law – communities can still get a dog in the fight. “But the Telecommunications Act specifically preserves the rights of local governments to make decisions regarding the placement and construction of cell phone towers, and local governments have a very important role in the process,” says Brooks. “It is vitally important that community members let their voice be heard to their local elected representatives. The process of creating a new cell tower ordinance in Spokane has shown how powerful a community’s voice can be. A federal agency in Washington does not necessarily understand our community’s needs, but our local government representatives certainly do.” Kirk Wine, a lawyer practicing on the Westside in Issaquah and Kenmore, helped shape the country’s first cell tower moratorium in Medina, California, a town of 3,000. That was 1996, and even 20 years ago the FCC allowed for extensive expansion of cell phone tower construction with no oversight from municipalities or citizens groups. Each couple of years, the FCC has furthered the reach of telecoms to hold sway over a community’s rights and wishes. “All the cities and counties in this country rely on the industry to get their information on the technologies,” says Wine. “It’s a stacked deck against citizens and municipalities.” The electrical engineers with radio frequency expertise are not in most cities, and a majority are paid by the telecommunications industry. In addition, Wine points out most communities do not have the money to handle a lawsuit or to hire experts to stand down the industry when the corporations cite the technical necessity for more towers, bigger ones and their desired locations. Cell phone arrays in church spires and on water towers, and the new node stealth

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technology, are all available to the industry, but both Wine and Brooks say it’s a matter of spending a bit more for that design technology. Wine was quick to point out that stopping cell phone towers in neighborhoods is not a NIMBY (“Not In My Backyard”) issue. It affects all communities since radio waves cross boundaries and more towers are being built to expand capacity. “We really don’t know what those radio frequencies’ effect are on humans. We are just taking our chances because we want our cell phones,” he says. Smart Phone Politics Hansen made it clear that you can’t fight cell phone towers based on potential negative health effects, or the effects on the environment, nor the negative impact on property values. At five foot-two and 105 pounds “sopping wet,” as she quips, Hansen says she is taking this fight to the bitter end. Hansen heard the same rhetoric we all hear from most citizens: You can’t fight the feds, AT&T is too powerful, and our city planners and elected representatives are too averse to appearing unfriendly to business. For Hansen and those active in their neighborhoods, the entire process of getting things done or even having an item placed on the radar of city and county bureaus is Byzantine and antithetical to representative government. Unless that government is there to protect the interests of a very small minority – a corporation – and not those of the majority – the citizens. Hansen is embedded in process and all the inner guts of local government, whether it works or not. There are so many levels as to how to get the legal, planning, legislative and business interests of a city together on the same page. This new ordinance is shaped by a hierarchy of alternative possibilities which includes a number one default of using city property – lots, buildings/structures and parks – as first choice for acceptable locations for cell phone arrays or towers. In turn, the city would get money for rental fees from the telecoms. Hansen, Wine and Brooks see distributive antenna systems

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(DAS) as a win-win solution. DAS technology cuts down on monolithic 120-foot towers, reduces the visual clutter and even has a positive effect on property values. DAS and a nodes system cost more up front than a towering lattice work of metal beams and crossbeams. All those fancy apps, Netflix downloads and instantaneous global messaging and video gaming, all in the palm of your hand are the reason more and more data is needed to run all of what we pack onto our phones. That means more radio signal systems are necessary for that leap in digital next generation “stuff.” Just What’s Going On with those EMFs? No one wants dropped calls, so the sacrifice to the visual landscape has been made, sort of a Faustian bargain, too, when one considers that the medical research jury is not out on the negative – cancer causing – effects of cell phone tower emissions. A Brazilian study along with others from Austria and San Francisco point to cell phone tower EMFs implicated in a large number of cancer deaths. More and more organizations and dozens more studies support the conclusions of recent Brazilian research focusing on Brazil’s third largest city, Belo Horizonte. In fact, The International Association for Research on Cancer (IARC) is on record stating radio frequency radiation, especially the radiation emanating from cell towers, is a possible carcinogen. Additionally, the BioInitiative 2012 Report, which was written by a group of leading international scientists, has issued a clear health warning against exposure to EMFs. This includes cell phone towers. You won’t get anyone on the record in Spokane positing the negative effects of tower emissions, but a so-called democracy of, for and by the people, where we elect folks to protect the public good, will, safety and health, should be more inquisitive and flexible in its collective understanding of synergistic effects of “things” on both the individual and the collective.

Footing the Bill The fight for folks like Hansen comes with a price – personal time, energy, emotions and money. This battle line affects 20 neighborhoods, and the lawyers don’t come for free. So far, that $15,000 bill has been whittled down to barely under $14,000. The tab is on Hansen’s wallet, not the city’s or anyone else. “Do I regret doing this? Not for a moment,” she says, enthusiastically. She’s not happy that so many neighborhood councils are misinformed about how the city works and who pays for these causes. It is property owners, like the California landlord and owner of the piece of land near her house where the cell tower is proposed to go, that benefit financially for a cell tower rental. Landowners can get $600 to $5,000 a month from the telecoms. The 57-year-old Hansen doesn’t deny the benefits of her cell phone and connection to the world, but there are less intrusive and ugly ways to do this “connectivity thing.” Even as the cell phone ordinance was rolled out, Hansen was tinkering with it, following up with Councilman Jon Snyder and city attorney James Richman, to put back into the law historical preservation caveats to protect historically and culturally significant features of the city. While a Kickstarter to raise money for the legal fees she’s on the spot for is possible, the idea of having a neighborhood ombudsman designated for Spokane is both practical and personal. “I wouldn’t mind having that job,” she says. Too many people think their neighborhood concerns are protected and advanced by city reps. “We need an entity through which neighborhoods can get the things they want done. Our city representatives are powerless.” Paul K. Haeder is a freelance writer who worked in Spokane as a community college instructor and journalist for over 11 years. The positions taken in Metro Talk columns do not necessarily reflect the views of Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living magazine’s publisher or staff.

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AUTOMOTIVE AUTONOMOUS CARS

AUTONOMOUS CARS THE FUTURE IS NEAR

by David Vahala

nyone who has ever flown on commercial airlines is familiar with the term autopilot and aware that pilots really aren’t doing all that much flying. With the exception of taxiing, takeoff and landing, they rely mainly on autopilot. Computerized autopilot programs are based on a three-axis design, adjusting aircraft speed, direction, pitch, roll, altitude, etc. The system is primarily used to maximize the efficiency of an aircraft’s operation, provide fuel savings and most importantly, ensure safety. Probably unknown to most people, some large trucks are already operating semi-autonomously. In October, Rio Tinto mining company began employing driverless trucks to haul iron ore at two of its mines in Western Australia. Rio Tinto is already utilizing autonomous trains and drilling systems – the only difference is the trucks are essentially unmanned and operated remotely by employees 750 miles away in Perth. In what the company calls the “mine of the future” concept, it aims to increase productivity by better integrating computer technology with machinery and labor, envisioning operations where the entire production line from the mine to the port is fully automated or remotely operated. Autonomous vehicle systems for passenger vehicles are directly transferrable to that of commercial trucks and military convoys.

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German automotive company Daimler has already demonstrated a prototype truck on a German autobahn. Of course, the U.S. armed forces employs remotely controlled drones for military purposes. While different, much of the same technology is in use. An autonomous car, aka un-crewed vehicle, driverless car, selfdriving car or robotic car, is called an autonomous vehicle (AV). Utilizing computer systems capable of managing the traditional functionality of a car, an AV senses its environment and navigates without human input. Robotic cars exist mainly as prototypes and demonstration systems right now; fully autonomous cars are likely still three or so years away according to those developing AVs, not including the time it will take for regulators’ approval. Semi-autonomous cars are leading the charge. Today, the car industry has now automated many systems feature-byfeature including using cameras and sensors to keep the car within its lane, maintain a prescribed distance from a car in front and automatically brake when too close, offer backup intervention which applies the brakes if there is another vehicle or even a person there and help parallel park the car. A recent article in Autoweek magazine featured the byline, perhaps a bit tongue in cheek, “Between the Google Car and Tesla Model S Autopilot system, we’re getting scared.” Written as

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an update on the progress of AVs, the story profiles Google’s and Tesla’s selfdriving cars. The Google Prototype Vehicle is a Jack Roush-built aluminum electric car designed specifically as a test bed for autonomous driving. In the roof are lasers, radars and cameras aimed in all directions with no pedals or steering wheel, though when the cars do their research drives, there are redundant controls for the driver/ engineer just in case. What sets Tesla’s Autopilot apart is the capability to change lanes and actually find an available parking spot. Autopilot includes a sophisticated version of cruise control that allows the Model S to follow a lane on the highway and change lanes when the driver flicks the turn signal level. It also features Traffic Jam Assist and, soon, will allow a driver to send a message to their car to park itself in a garage and summon it back with a smart phone. Tesla has the only system that comes as a software update to existing newer Model S’s. The Autopilot version 7.0 software package was beamed down to cars in the U.S, Europe and Asia in October. Wow! No need to be scared, but drivers need to be cautious. Tesla CEO Elon Musk commented, “I think this is going to be quite a profound experience for people. It will change people’s perception of the future quite drastically.” He also added his caution, “Drivers need to keep their hands on the wheel, and our Autopilot system will chime to remind them if they don’t.” Musk continues, “It’s important that people exercise caution at the beginning, but in the long term, people will not need to have their hands on the wheel, and eventually, there won’t be steering wheels.” How exactly does the AV work? Generally speaking, the car sees with an array of cameras and radar sensors designed into the vehicle body; constantly scanning up to 600 feet in all directions and is programmed via algorithms to have a sense of its environ-

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AUTOMOTIVE AUTONOMOUS ment. An AV can detect more quickly that something is happening that may cause an accident than a driver can. Autopilot is based on high-resolution maps that Tesla has developed by tracking where its cars have driven. If cars appear to be switching out of Autopilot mode at a particular spot on the road, Musk says, Tesla’s system will update its maps and its software. “The big differentiator here is that the whole Tesla fleet operates as a network, so when one car learns something, the whole fleet learns it,” Musk said. It is a “powerful network effect,” he say, adding that “any car company that doesn’t do this will not be able to provide a good autonomous driving system.” In a 60-Minutes piece in October about Mercedes Benz’s work with AVs, Bill Whitaker, 60-Minutes correspondent and Mercedes-Benz’s Ralf Herrtwich, spent 20 minutes driving around Silicon Valley, the new Detroit for self-driving cars. It was amazing to see them conversing while the M-B S500 drove itself, handling traffic and directions after being programmed to do so. “First you’re amazed, then you begin to relax,” says Whitaker. “It took about 10 minutes.” Nearly every automaker is working on AV technology in Silicon Valley. Nissan is teamed with NASA, Audi and auto-parts maker Delphi and Google’s autonomous fleet of cars with roof mounted laser sensors have driven over a million miles in the last six years. GM, BMW, Apple, Honda, VW and previously mentioned Tesla are here too. It’s notable that two companies that are not current car manufacturers are investing millions in developing self-driving cars: Apple and Google. What is the autonomous car really all about? Apple’s Tim Cook says, “We’d like people to have an iPhone experience in their car. Apple Carplay is about trying to make your life outside and inside the car seamless.” Mercedes-Benz’s Herrtwich says, “People are increasingly asking for AVs. They have gotten used to living with and

interacting with computers, feeling more comfortable. There are certain situations where I don’t want to drive – can your car do it for me?” Musk says, “In the long term, an AV will be safer than a person driving.” Google started their self-driving car project in 2009 and envisions people sitting in driverless cars doing work and enjoying an easier way to get around by 2020. “It’s been really eye-opening to me to see the areas where self-driving cars can outperform human ability,” says Sergey Brin, the co-founder of Google. Driverless cars won’t even be equipped with steering wheels or brake pedals – everything is controlled through a combination of sensors, lasers, software and intricate maps. Now that seems scary! Back to the future? No, back to reality; human control and intervention remains a must. Right now, the technology can’t handle snow or operate in heavy rain. AVs can’t discern hand signals from construction workers or traffic police. Four million miles of roads in the U.S. alone must be mapped in high-definition detail. Issues of cyber security and privacy, along with the potential for defects in the manufacturing process are all concerns. Cars must be thought of as computers in addition to power plants and tires. Not ready to take a nap or read the newspaper while being chauffeured around by your car? Mercedes and other carmakers suggest humans will always have a role. “The two most profound innovations in automotive since the moving production line,” Elon Musk says, “are electrification and autonomy.” Some say we are probably at the largest transformative moment in automotive history. Only if people accept the technology. What do you think? Are you ready for an AV in your driveway? Happy Motoring! David Vahala is a Certified Car Guy, having owned 28 vehicles so far (but who’s counting!) He works part time as an auctioneer assistant at Dealers Auto Auction Northwest and enjoys driving his two Porsche’s, a 1988 944 and 2000 Boxster.

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WHAT DOES CALIFORNIA CLOSETS DO, EXACTLY? California Closets is a high quality home storage company. Through a free design consultation our clients receive assistance from our designers in outlining needs for their project. We produce every custom order right here in Spokane. To keep quality high we have decided not to offer wire options, but instead, for our budget-conscious customers we have competitively priced simple design options that still provide the California Closets experience. HOW DID THE CALIFORNIA CLOSET STORY BEGIN? The California Closets franchise was started in 1978, by a college student. All current franchises are independent businesses that can choose to do business as (dba) California Closets. For example, Jason, a long time carpenter, offers other custom projects through his business Morningstar Solutions Company. Spokane is a tough market for any company, yet when the decision was made to open a business here in 1998 the people responded. We have remained the top custom home storage company in the area for more than fifteen years. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE? We are parents of a young family. After Jason’s military service went from active to reserve, life really was hard on us. We moved from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii and started out all over again. He was blessed with a management position at California Closets in 2011 leading to us buying the rights in 2013. Since then it’s been a whirlwind to balance three kids under nine years of age, marriage, general ownership and striving to be the type of owners we’d like to work for. HOW HAVE ORGANIZER SYSTEMS CHANGED OVER TIME? Back in 1978, a young college student had an idea to optimize the confined spaces dorms offer. Combine that with the American dream and you get an organization that has provided many others the opportunity to become successful small business owners. The product

was simple and was only offered in white. Now, we offer things like higher grade materials we can put a lifetime warranty on, colors to suit every home need, we’ve incorporated features like painted glass, corian and granite countertops, racks for accessories, and have scientifically determined what height and depth create the perfect closet. WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR BUSINESS MAKES YOU MOST PROUD? Even though everyday we learn something new, we feel we have come so far. We have grown the business, offered more jobs to the community, and have treated our employees with respect, kindness and friendship. We are a family, living the American dream. WHAT NEW DEVELOPMENTS ARE TAKING PLACE IN YOUR INDUSTRY OR IN YOUR PRODUCT LINE? California Closets has a Lago color line that is unique to us with three new exciting colors: Sienna, Capri and Sorento. These new colors are inspired by top fashion trends and are produced here in the U.S. Additionally, we recently opened a new showroom at 506 North Sullivan for customers to see, touch and experience our line of products. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYONE IN THE MARKET FOR CUSTOM ORGANIZATION SYSTEMS? Those that enjoy research, do it. For those that don’t, remember our consultations are free. We save the plans so that if you buy today or four years from now we have them waiting for you and during that consultation you’ll get all your ideas and questions answered regarding your project. If you receive a bid from someone that spent ten minutes with you and asks you to spend $1,500 or more—walk away. You don’t know what you’re getting. They cannot possibly know your needs in that little time. We can help.

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LOCAL CUISINE

1 2 8 R ESTAU R A NT REV IEWS 137 DI N I N G G UI D E 1 4 3 S IG N AT UR E D IS H 1 4 5 LIQUI D L I B AT I O N S

Setting the

Big Table by Cara Strickland

photos courtesy of Big Table

BIG TABLE was just beginning to get name recognition in the community when I met Kevin Finch at an event four years ago. At that time, he was the food editor for this magazine, and through that role he had come to know and care about those working in the restaurant and hospitality sectors. Finch’s research uncovered some startling facts: The restaurant and hospitality industry has the highest rate of drug and alcohol abuse of any in the nation. Those working these fields are two to three times more likely to experience a broken relationship. These people deal with isolation, stemming from the fact that they work when most people are at rest or play, and experience constant stress in their work environments. For most people working in these professions, there is no safety net to account for unexpected illness, life events or unforeseen financial obligations. In spite of the fact that those working in restaurants and hotels are the largest single employment group in the nation (not quite double the size of any other employment group), there was not a single nonprofit dedicated to this group of people - until Finch founded Big Table in 2009. Back then, he was the founder and sole operator, channeling his care for people into the dream of a dinner cooked by the best local chefs and attended by people who were always doing the serving. He wanted it to be the other way around for once, treating them to an evening of excellent food and great service they received, rather than provided. The first Big Table dinner was in November of 2009, beginning a tradition of restaurant and hospitality workers, from dishwashers, front desk clerks, servers, chefs and owners, all sitting together at one big table (which comes apart for storage and seats

48). Throughout the evening, relationships are initiated and cultivated and by the end of the night, people are writing down the names of people they work with who are in difficult or vulnerable situations and could use some care. That’s where the real fun begins. Since its inception, Big Table has added six more employees to the team, including two full-time employees in the new Seattle branch, which officially started in the summer of 2015, after two years of building community and connections among the key players in the Seattle scene. “Typically things start in Seattle and expand to Spokane” says Finch. “Big Table started in Spokane and has now expanded to Seattle. The size of the Seattle market is five times that of Spokane, but already we’ve got our two folks over there who are going into places and people are saying ‘I spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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LOCAL CUISINE BIG TABLE

know about Big Table.’ It’s amazing.” (Even though Big Table is now in Seattle, all money raised in Spokane stays here to care for local workers). The growth of Big Table is certainly not limited to Seattle, however. Big Table is helping more people than ever in the greater Spokane area. They host dinners quarterly and spend the rest of the time responding to needs of those in the industry. “The structure is a referral model,” says Finch. “I think that’s unique and it’s really effective, it ends up being a screening system without a screening system.” On a practical level, this might mean that a chef will call Big Table because one of the servers in their restaurant is going through health challenges, or that someone who had received care from Big Table in the past will pass along a tip about another person in a tough spot. That word of mouth network of care and connection has obviously caught on. “When we started Big Table, people would recognize my name but not recognize Big Table, they’d be like ‘oh you’re the food writer guy,’ Finch laughs. “Now people don’t recognize my name but I say I work for Big Table and their response is: “You helped my cousin,” “You helped a friend,” “You know what? There’s this buddy at work that could use some help.” I met with the Big Table team for a behind the scenes view of what goes on in the lives of people they care for, and the stories started pouring out. Laura Lympus, one of Big Table’s Spokane Care Engagement Coordinators, shared a story about a woman named Jenna, a mother of three, married to a man dealing with health challenges who was working in fast food while struggling with a pain killer addiction. Big Table was originally connected with Jenna through a doctor with Providence’s Consistent Care program (a program which looks at people who are using the emergency room as their primary care physician and connects with those people to see what’s going on in their lives holistically.) “The very first time I met her I was really drawn to her. She was an amazing gal. And you could just tell that she was facing a lot of really tough stuff in her life,” says Lympus. Laura walked with Jenna as she worked her program and

went through the steps to get her driver’s license back. “She was always just so encouraged. She’d always want me to celebrate with her, and she’d be so excited when I’d tell her I was proud of her.” After Jenna got her license back, Lympus connected her with a manager of a local fast food franchise with a relationship to Big Table, hoping that she might get out of the work environment she was in, which had been very negative. Now, Jenna works for that franchise and calls it her dream job. Finch shares a story of a young dishwasher named Jeremy. “We started caring for Jeremy five years ago. I helped him when he was in prison, helped him get a job, walked alongside him just in terms of making good decisions. When he was fired from his job it was fascinating that the owners of the restaurant called us to say ‘Hey, would you be there to support Jeremy? He can’t work here any longer, we know you care for him.’” Big Table helped Jeremy relocate to Seattle and now the Big Table team there is able to offer him care. While it’s exciting to celebrate things like new jobs, paid bills and healing from physical ailments, Big Table isn’t always about those kinds of results. “Big Table does efficiency very well but it’s a different kind of efficiency because it’s people-based,” says Finch. “Jeremy will probably be a dishwasher for the rest of his life. We’ve spent probably hundreds of hours caring for this kid at this point. But I think the model is that if one person’s life is deeply transformed, then they’re going to start changing others and it feels like the way our impact is going to be felt is through the ripple effect. It’s not that we helped this huge number of people directly but that we helped this person and then this person, maybe five years later, maybe ten years later is now helping these four people and then those four people go out and help other people. The temptation is to just tell the really great success stories. These are folks that are just in very deep agony and are broken. But it seems like even the simplest thing ends up being a gift,” says Finch. “These are folks that no one cares for without strings attached, so when you do the simplest thing and they’re grateful.” The partnerships Big Table has formed in the community

“These are folks that no one cares for without strings attached, so when you do the simplest thing they’re grateful.”

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allow donor contributions to go further than they otherwise would. The idea is to have a network that functions like the one most people have, so that your phone call is answered by someone who already knows you. In addition to traditional giving (a monthly gift of any amount helps take the pressure off the staff so that they can focus on the heart of Big Table: care), Big Table has some ideas for creative gifts to those in the industry. On their website, you can request “Unexpected 20” envelopes to leave in addition to a tip at dinner, or in your hotel room for your housekeeper, to make their day. You can download a list of ways to care (both monetary and otherwise) while eating and sleeping or become part of the network of care by offering up your relevant skills. You might also decide to participate in the Holiday Blitz which surprises fast food workers with Unexpected 20s for the whole crew on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and for the first time, this holiday season, you can buy a wine, chocolate and coffee gift packages, and have a portion go toward supporting Big Table (check their website for more details). Once a year, in September, Big Table throws a party (2016 will be at the Davenport Grand on September 26). The theme is “Big Table Eats Around the World” and features cuisine from three different countries made by local chefs (next year will highlight Ireland, Jamaica and South Korea). If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to mark your calendar now. Chris Dietz shared his favorite part of working for the nonprofit to nods of agreement from the rest of the team. “It’s just a gift to be able to call somebody and say, ‘Hey, I hear this is going on in your life, but let’s actually do something about it.’”

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RESTAURANT REVIEW BLACKBIRD

by Cara Strickland photography by Rick Singer Photography

ATTENTION MANITO TAP HOUSE FANS: there’s a new little sister in town! Down the hill and across the river, in the historic Broadview Dairy building (former home to Bella Cova and Caterina Winery), you’ll find The Blackbird Tavern and Kitchen. Maybe you’ll head straight to the bar where there are 34 beers (and four wines) on electronic tap. Maybe you’ll take a seat at a squishy leather booth at a butcher block table. If it’s warm enough, you might want to sit on the patio under strings of Edison light bulbs. I began with a lunch visit. My guest and I started with a French press of custom roasted coffee (from Roast House) which came on a black cutting board accompanied by sugar, stevia, cream and a dish of shaved dark chocolate ($6). We ordered Malted Waffle Hush Puppies ($5) with cayenne maple syrup as an appetizer. The syrup added just the right amount

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of kick, but we found the hush puppies to be somewhat inconsistent. Some of them were light and fluffy on the inside, while others were very dense. The good ones were good, but I’m not sure I’d gamble on another order. The rest of the appetizer menu contains interesting combinations like Bacon Fat Popcorn ($5) with maple sugar and sea salt, Mac and Cheese with black truffle, fontina and bacon ($7) and Marinated Scallops with melon ice, basil and smoked salt ($13).

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For lunch, we chose a lamb burger cleverly named On the Lamb ($15). It was served with black walnut butter, rhubarb jam and mache (a mild green, similar to spinach) atop a ground lamb patty on a house-made bun. Both my guest and I enjoyed the flavors of this sandwich and the superior quality of the lamb, which was wellcooked and juicy. We also tried the Crispy Skin Salmon ($19) which came on a bed of bacon fried rice and accompanied by several slices of glazed peaches, garnished with greens. The salmon itself was flavored with salted caramel, which made its way into the rest of the dish. The salmon was cooked well, though I found the flavors sweet enough to make it read more like a dessert than an entree. The southern-inspired menu and an accompanying fresh sheet remain constant throughout the day, and there are some options for vegetarians and those eating gluten-free (roasted spaghetti squash, $11, meets both requirements). For dessert, we sampled the Bread Pudding ($7), made of the remnants of leftover house made pastries and mixed with cinnamon, whiskey and topped with vanilla bean ice cream. It was rich and satisfying, and not exactly what I expected. 130

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A Spokane favorite for 25 years!

Serving traditional Irish & American pub fare I returned for brunch, served on the weekends from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This time, my French press coffee came without the chocolate. My companion and I ordered the Smoked Salmon ($12), which appeared more like a small cooked filet than smoked salmon. It was accompanied by bagel chips, preserved lemon, red onion and a cluster of butter lettuce. Everything was very tart, and while pleasant, I found that I needed to pace myself and share the other things we’d ordered between bites. We filled the rest of our table with a side of bacon ($5), and the Giant Cinnamon Roll ($6). The bacon was thick and wide enough that it reminded me less of bacon and more as slices of cooked meat. Definitely not unpleasant, but unexpected. The cinnamon roll was topped with browned butter, cream cheese frosting and smoked salt, which gave a very intense flavor. The texture and consistency were excellent. The early days of a restaurant are always ones of fine-tuning a menu and discovering what works and what doesn’t. I’m looking forward to seeing what the menu is like when the dust settles. There is a lot to love at The Blackbird, a convenient location, lots of taps (including local brews), an interesting appetizer menu, kind, attentive service, the chance to try ingredients and combinations unlike any other area restaurant, bottomless mimosas at brunch and a bit of a family resemblance to the Tap House on the hill. The Blackbird Tavern + Kitchen is located at 905 N. Washington, in Spokane, and is open Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., (509) 392-4000, www.theblackbirdspokane.com

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(509) 927-7770 www.nodlandcellars.com Valley Tasting room: 11616 E. Montgomery Dr., #70, Spokane Valley Downtown Tasting room: (Coming soon) 926 W. Sprague, Spokane spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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RESTAURANT REVIEW SHOGUN

Hibachi Steak, Sushi & Cocktails by Nicole Sheets photos Hamilton Studios

made a reservation at Shogun on a Wednesday night, more to feel fancy than out of an expectation that the place would be packed. There were several grills going, and a festive air to the place, by the time we tucked into our meal. We were seated with another party of four around a grill. In many parts of the world, this would not be weird, but in the U.S., especially in a city the size of Spokane, it goes against our grain to share space with people we don’t know. I liked imagining that we were on a cruise ship, assigned to eat with adventurous strangers to fill out the table.

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The guests at the opposite end of the grill said they come to Shogun all the time. Get the fried rice, they said. It’s extra ($3.00), but worth it. I wanted to ask them more questions but I’ve found that once you start nursing a baby in a public place, many people will go to great lengths to avoid eye contact. Fair enough. The frequent diners were also busy with their daughter’s birthday presents and her report about her college classes. My companions and I split an egg roll appetizer ($3.50 for two) served with day-glow orange sauce. It was slightly oily and fishy, not particularly flavorful. I’d skip it and opt for a

food court version if that’s really what you’re in the mood for. The night really picked up once our chef wheeled out his cart of raw ingredients. One of my companions had eaten at Shogun as a child and remembered when the chef flipped a shrimp into her granddad’s pocket. We had high expectations. Our chef established his dominance of the grill by setting it on fire, a flashy gesture that got our attention. Though I knew everything was under control, the fireball prompted me to push my chair back to protect myself and my offspring. The chef switched on a strobe light (which more kitchen setups should use) and flipped and clanged his spatulas, preparing for battle with bean sprouts. The diners at the other end of the grill, for whom hibachi is less of a novelty, barely looked up, but we applauded the chef ’s dexterous showmanship. He cracked eggs in midair! He flipped eggshells onto his hat! He made that volcano thing out of sliced onions! We tried to draw out more information from our chef. “How long does your training take?” asked the birthday girl. Six to eight weeks, the chef said, adding that he watches YouTube videos to work on his grillside manner. When we asked what’s going on with gender, here? All of the servers are women in tasteful kimonos, and all of the chefs are men. He said he’s heard about a female hibachi chef, but she doesn’t work at Shogun. I asked if there is a competition among hibachi chefs, like the way baristas try to one-up each other with designs in latte foam? No, he said. It’s not a competition. Our chef sliced and arranged the various meats in piles. On his cart sat an impressive hillock of butter, the size of a big grapefruit, in a bowl. The hillock whittled down as he serviced more tables. One of my dining companions tried the peach sake special. I had a taste:

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smooth, not too sweet, though the sake aftertaste, as expected, hits you pretty hard. We tried various creatures of land and sea, including the Hibachi Steak ($25.95), which had a pleasing peppery flavor. The Hibachi Teriyaki Chicken ($20.95) was covered in sauce and sesame seeds. Though salty, it played well with the vegetables and rice. Hands down, though, the winner was the Calamari Steak ($21.95). It was tender and buttery, mild but not at all bland, and nothing like the breaded rubber bands that I assumed were calamari’s only form. I fancy myself as

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adventurous toward food, but you can call my bluff when it comes to seafood. Mine was a landlocked childhood. The fish of my youth came in stick form, served with a lagoon of ketchup. At Shogun, one dining companion skipped the hibachi entrees and went straight for the extensive sushi menu. He reported that the Hamachi (Yellowtail) nigiri ($4.50 for two

pieces) was a standout. I stuck mostly to the California roll ($5.00). Some of the rolls, like the Caterpillar ($8.50)—eel, cucumber, crabmeat, and avocado—and the deep-fried Las Vegas roll ($8.50)— spicy tuna, crabmeat, eel, avocado, cream cheese—were, as one of my companions put it, “covered and smothered” in sauce. My companions were initially wary of this, even so, we had no problem polishing off the platter. Sated by my plate of food and staring at the empty grill, I thought of Councilman Jamm from the TV show Parks & Rec, who uses his hibachi grill to cook scrambled eggs. My companions and I daydreamed about hibachi breakfast food. A strobe light routine might be a bit much with an early cup of coffee, but a vegetable volcano and a sake mimosa with brunch could be just the thing. What sets Shogun apart is its atmosphere. It’s not everywhere in Spokane that you might bang a gong. Or cross a pond on a wooden bridge, a bridge that, I read, is referred to as a “moonbridge” in a Japanese garden and is supposed to “reflect artistic feelings.” Were there koi in the pond? I asked the hostess. No, she said, there are too many coins in the water. Behind the bridge and pond, all along the south wall, stretches a giant water feature that blurs projected photos of people who are celebrating birthdays at Shogun. Near the hostess stand, the dark ceiling winks with tiny lights. A stroll underneath them is, truth be told, a little bit magical. It’s clear that this place is really trying to help you make some memories. As we left, I noticed one diner sitting alone at a grill. The chef had the tray, the butter mound, the flashy work with his utensils. Maybe the man was sad not to be invited to anyone’s birthday party, but he seemed content to watch as a man in a many-pleated hat made his dinner sizzle, just the way he liked it. Shogun is located at 821 E. Third Ave., Spokane, and is open daily, 5 to 9:30 p.m., (509) 534-7777, www.shogunspokane.com

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DINING GUIDE DECEMBER

Black Bird photo by Rick Singer Photography

DECEMBER

DINING Guide

The Dining Guide includes summaries of local restaurants that are featured on a rotating basis each month and/or issue. Suggestions for additions or corrections can be sent to katie@spokanecda.com

ASIAN AND INDIAN Aloha Island Grill. Hawaiian. Operating out of two former Taco John shacks on Monroe and West Francis, Patrick and Lori Keegan serve up fresh, tender Teriyaki Chicken “plates” that will keep you coming back. Based on family recipes from the islands and plenty more than just teriyaki, both spots offer a student discount; the Francis location serves a creative breakfast concoction called the “Loco Moco.” Order it the way “Huff” (Patrick’s nickname) gets his. Open daily. 1724 N Monroe (509443-1632) and 1220 W Francis (509) 413-2029. www.eataloha.com. $-$$ Gordy’s Sichuan Café. Provincial Chinese. This intimate bistro with a creative menu is a temple to the Sichuan cuisine of southwest China. Chef Gordon Crafts and his team serve up dishes laced with ginger, garlic, chiles, and the lemony Sichuan “pepper” that sets your tongue buzzing. Open since 1997, Gordy’s is a wonderful exception to mediocre and standardized American Chinese food. Heavenly dumplings, searing chile basil soup, and the best lemon chicken around are only the beginning. Open Tues-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 4-9pm. 501 E 30th Ave in Spokane. (509) 747-1170. $$ House of Seoul. Korean. Run by gregarious and proud immigrant from Korea, Boksong Kim, House of Seoul does Korea high honors with his true-to-the-roots cooking style. The restaurant is cozy with a sparse yet affable décor, and is exceptionally eat off the floor clean inside. The food is fresh and made to order, so when Boksong runs out, it’s out. Most dishes are protein and vegetable laden, some served with wild rice instead of the cursory white. Specialties include kimchi soup ($11.95 dinner), a moderately spicy dish with big tofu cubes, fresh pork and plenty of veggies and

the kal bi ($15.95 dinner), thin slabs of beef short rib, marinated to a sweet tenderness, then cooked over a grill’s hot flames until the edges go crispy black. Each dish comes with a variety of banchan, or side dishes, central to the Korean dining experience— plenty of food, to say the least. Mon-Fri 10:30am-8pm, Sat 12-8pm, closed Sun. 12721 W 14th Ave, Airway Heights. (509) 244-3761. $$ Nudo. Asian-fusion. This new-age “ramen house” speaks urban cool in the heart of downtown Spokane. Try the Grilled Miso Chilean Sea Bass, Edamame, or Crisp Salt and Pepper Basil Chicken for appetizers, followed by a Tonkotsu Bowl featuring fresh ramen, barbecue pork, hard-boiled egg, corn, braised bamboo shoots and seaweed in a slow-boiled pork bone broth. Their signature Ramen Burger— a fresh-ground beef patty topped with arugula and tonkatsu sauce between two homemade rounds of “ramen bun” is a fun entrée. A well-selected drink menu, late hours, and modern lounge-feel makes it well set for lingering dates and après-event noshing. Vegetarian options also offered. Mon-Sat 11amclose. 818 West Sprague. (509) 290-5763. www.nudoramen.com. $$ Shogun. Japanese. Shogun is really two restaurants. First are the familiar hibachi tables. Each table seats about eight and comes with a personal chef who prepares a selection of beef, chicken, and seafood in front of delighted guests. Trained in the art of hibachi cooking, chefs serve as impromptu performance artists, amazing diners with kitchen acrobatics, sleight-of-hand and grill-assisted pyrotechnics. The other is the sushi bar, serving up California and Vegas Roll favorites. Across the bamboo bridge, over a tranquil koi pond

(minus the fish… “too many coins”) and past the waterfall and lounge, this is a quiet refuge and counterpoint to the frenetic atmosphere of the main dining room. Shogun is a perfect spot for either a special celebration or a quiet night out. Open seven days 5-10pm. 821 E 3rd. (509) 534-7777. $$-$$$ Suki Yaki Inn. Japanese. Many of us can’t remember a time when the Suki Yaki Inn wasn’t tucked away in the same location around the corner of Bernard and Riverside. Spokane’s first Japanese restaurant, there are no acrobatic samurai chefs to be seen, but it is still the place to come for classic teriyaki and sushi. And the only place to enjoy the traditional private dining rooms seated upon cushions on the floor, shoes left outside. Lunch MonFri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Fri 5-11pm, Fri 4-11pm, Sun 4-10pm; Lounge seven days until 2am. 119 N Bernard. (509) 624-0022. www. sukiyaki-inn.com. $$ Sushi.com. Japanese. We still think the name is about as cheesy as you can get for a sushi bar and Japanese restaurant, but the food transcends the curious dot.com label over the door. Sit at the sushi bar and enjoy what’s fresh or take a table and explore the menu that also includes plenty of excellent hot options if raw fish still makes you nervous. Some of our favorites are the super white tuna and the house tempura. Mon-Fri 11am-9:30pm, Sat 12 noon9pm, Sun 12 noon-8pm. 430 West Main, Spokane. (509) 838-0630. $-$$$ Taste of India. Indian. A family-owned restaurant on the Division hill offering authentic cuisine emphasizing northern Indian flavors. Taste of India boasts a casual atmosphere with a soundtrack of traditional music and a popu-

lar lunch buffet during the week. Try the Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Curry, or Vegetarian Samosa. Mon-Thur 11am-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm. 3110 N Division in Spokane. (509) 327-7313. $-$$ Teriyaki House. Japanese. Teriyaki House is locally owned and operated. They take tremendous pride in the quality of their food. Their dishes are low-fat, low-cholesterol, and are prepared without MSG. Try their homemade teriyaki sauce. 11516 E Sprague. Tues-Sat 11am-8pm. (509) 928-8893. $ Thai Bamboo. Thai. Each of the four regional Thai Bamboo locations offers a massive Southeast Asian menu in settings designed to transport you across the Pacific. Inside each restaurant you’ll find Thai stone and wood carvings, water fountains, Thai music and the namesake bamboo décor. Thai Bamboo continues to be #1 Best Thai in readers’ polls and both the newest location on North Division and the CdA restaurant feature a Tiki-Beach styled lounge and a striking sky ceilings in the main dining rooms. Think Vegas with pad thai. All locations Mon-Thu 11:30-9pm, Fri 11:30pm9:30pm, Sat 12-9:30pm, Sun 12-9pm. Delivery available. info@thaibamboorestaurant. com, www.thaibamboorestaurant.com. $-$$

BARBECUE

Red Lion BBQ & Pub. For about 20 years, whether it was in the old rhythm and blues, peanut-shells-on-the-floor days, or more recently as a sports bar, there’s always been butt-kickin’ BBQ at this downtown corner spot. The undisputed star here is wine broiled chicken, spicy and robust, yet falling-

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off-the-bones moist and tender. Together with their signature fried bread and honey, and you have a BBQ experience that can’t help but please. 126 N Division. Sun-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-1am. (Sunday breakfast buffet 9am-noon during football season.) (509) 835LION (5466). www.redlionbarbeque.com. $-$$

BISTROS Clover. Located a half block east of Hamilton near Gonzaga, Clover turns quality and thoughtfully-sourced ingredients into a culinary obsession with great results. Rather than focusing on the exotic, the strong bistro menu features straightforward dishes executed with an attention to details. The cocktail menu might also be the strongest in the city. The chicken bites are the poultry equivalent of crack, the kitchen turns out a mean Reuben, and for dessert, don’t miss the Orangesicle cake. Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 4:30-9pm; SatSun 10am-2pm, 4:30-10pm. 913 E Sharp Ave. (509) 487-2937. www.cloverspokane.com. $$-$$$ Corkhouse Kitchen + Bar. A warm and inviting spot in Liberty Lake, Corkhouse offers sleek spins on favorites like Mac and Cheese with chicken, bacon, and roasted jalapeno, sweetand-spicy Skillet Cornbread and the Double R Ranch Ribeye with blue cheese, hazelnut butter, and twice baked potato, as well as generous portions of inspired salads like the Kale and Quinoa. Everything on the menu— including dressings, sauces and hamburger buns— are made from scratch and change seasonally. The casual yet gourmet bistro offers brunch on the weekends, lunch dinner throughout the week and a drive-through coffee bar serving Thomas Hammer starting at 7am. Brunch and lunch prices range from $6 to $16, with dinner offered from $15 to $28. A cozy bar, outdoor patio and stellar service make Corkhouse an all-around winner for couples, families and single alike. Mon – Fri 11-9pm; Saturday 9-10pm; Sunday brunch only 9-3pm. Drive-thru espresso is open 7 days a week from 7-3pm. 1400 N Meadowwood Lane in Liberty Lake. (509) 9224210 www.corkhouse.net. $$-$$$ Herbal Essence Café. Northwest cuisine. This relaxed downtown restaurant tucked into the middle of a block on Washington serves Northwest bistro food and works hard to offer

great service. The menu offers up baseball-cut sirloins, a whole stuffed Dungeness crab and a swordfish steak stuffed with pesto and baked off with a parmesan crust. Try the award-winning house salad, brilliant with sliced pears, crumbled Gorgonzola and a white truffle vinaigrette. 115 N Washington. Lunch Mon-Fri 11-2, Dinner Mon-Sat 5-close. (509) 838-4600. www.herbalessencecafe.com. Lunch $-$$, dinner $$-$$$ Mizuna. While still hewing to its vegetarian and vegan origins, Mizuna has expanded its horizons to include carnivorous fare with something to satisfy everyone. One of the most outstanding restaurants in town, Mizuna’s kitchen has a commitment to sourcing local, seasonable foods when possible. The Portobello Mushroom sandwich and the Seared Ahi Salad are always delectable favorites, as well as owner Sylvia Fountaine’s famous carrot cake. Outside patio dining is available when the weather permits. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:302:30, Dinner seven days 5-10. 214 N Howard. (509) 747-2004. www.mizuna.com. $$-$$$ The Wandering Table. A much-anticipated American tapas-style restaurant located in Kendall Yards. Chef Adam Hegsted delights with a variety of small plates (try the Garden for a creative salad take, the Deviled Eggs, or the Popcorn), craft cocktails, a whiskey bar, and other substantial dishes, such as the Bacon-Wrapped Bacon Sliders or the Braised Shortribs. The chef is known for his previous culinary venture of the same name consisting of a twelve-course dinner party. Take his advice and go with the “You Choose the Price!” meal option for the table offered at $15-$65 per head for a surprising culinary journey. Hopefully it will include the Olive Oil Gelato for dessert. Open Tues-Thurs, 11:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m., Fri & Sat 11:30 a.m. - 1 a.m. Sun & Mon, 4 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. 1242 W Summit Pkwy in Kendall Yards. (509) 443-4410. www. thewanderingtable.com. $$ Wild Sage. Tucked into a classic 1911 brick building on 2nd and Lincoln, Wild Sage offers an intimate dining setting and memorable food with real flair. The atmosphere combines class and warmth. Executive Chef Charlie Connor presents regionally influenced Northwest cuisine using only the finest locally sourced products. Try the Yukon Taquitos, the

Crisp Bacon & Blue salad or the Cioppino. Be sure to finish with a slice of the “Soonto-be-Famous” Coconut Cream Layer Cake with lilikoi sauce. This award-winning bistro is known for its in-house bakery and an amazing array of gluten free options. Also make it a point to order something from their “scratch bar,” with or without alcohol. They use only fresh juices and house-infused flavored liquors. Dinner seven nights a week, opening at 4 p.m. 916 W Second Ave in Spokane. (509) 456-7575. www.wildsagebistro.com. $$-$$$ The Wine Cellar. The door to this intimate basement grotto is easy to miss on Coeur d’Alene’s main street Sherman Avenue. This bistro, wine bar, and live music venue embodies generosity with hearty Italian and Mediterranean fare at incredibly reasonable prices, warm and welcoming staff, and a killer space that feels like a retreat from the pressures of life outside. Don’t miss the amazing Mac and Cheese on the appetizer menu and take note that each entrée is accompanies by a salad and bread. 313 E Sherman Ave in Coeur d’ Alene. Mon to Thur 4:30 – 10 p.m., Fri and Sat 4:30 p.m. to midnight. Closed Sun. (208) 6649463. www.coeurdalenewinecellar.com. $-$$.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH SPECIALTIES

Big Red’s Chicago Style Cuisine. This food trailer serves up possibly the best cheesesteak in town along with a formidable Chicago Dog (with all the fixings), and an Italian Beef with a fiery relish made by owner and operator Curtis Bytnar. Feel like fries? Big Red’s offers you the choice of sweet potato or regular, and the regular can come topped with garlic, cheese, or both chili and cheese. Located in the parking lot of the St. Matthew’s Institutional Baptist Church at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Government Way west of downtown Spokane. Open Mon, 11 am – 3 p.m.; Tues – Sat, 11 am – 5 p.m. Closed Sunday. (509) 991-2359. $ Chomper Café. If homey food like housemade strawberry preserves and slow cooked corned beef is your jam (but you are so over greasy eggs), then this simple little café might be the ticket for a family breakfast outing or a filling lunch after a day at the lake. Like most neighborhood cafés and diners, breakfast is served all day, every day, with lunch available for the pancake-averse. The menu serves up all the favorites like Chicken Fried Steak, Biscuits and Gravy, Scrambles, Omelets, and Pancakes, Waffles and French Toast. Standouts on the menu includeChomper Fries (thick, crispy discs of home style potatoes, Corned Beef Hash (slow-braised in house for 12 hours) and the decadent Cinnamon Roll Trio (fresh baked classic, maple pecan and a seasonal, to SHARE, of course!). 2345 W Prairie Ave., Hayden, Idaho. Open daily, 7am-3pm. (208) 719-0441. chompercafe.com. $-$$ Frank’s Diner. Frank’s has become a Spokane landmark in just over a decade. Both early 1900’s-vintage rail cars were originally obtained by the Knight brothers Frank and Jack during the depression, and each converted them to diners in Seattle and Spokane, respectively. Larry Brown, of Onion Bar and Grill fame, acquired the Seattle diner in 1991 and moved it to its present location, meticulously restored by well-know local restaurant restoration artisan, Pat Jeppeson. Frank’s breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, available all day, has all the classics. Among our favorites are the open-face turkey, roast beef and mushroom sandwiches, chicken pot pie, Joe’s Special (the venerable scramble of eggs, ground beef, spinach, onions and parmesan), and, of course, the don’t-miss-at-breakfast hash browns and silver pancakes. 1516 W. 2nd. Seven days 6-8p.m.. (509) 747-8798. 10929 N. Newport Highway, Sun-Thurs 6am-8p.m., FriSat 6am-9p.m. (509) 465-2464. www.franksdiners.com. $

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Little Euro. Valley fans of the Old European can rejoice. One look at the menu and you’ll see that Little Euro offers many of the same breakfast delights as it’s North Division sibling: Danish Aebelskivers, Swedish Crepes, and that mountain of breakfast on a plate they call Hungarian Goulash. Lunch also served. Open daily 6 am – 2 p.m.. 517 N Pines Rd in the Spokane Valley. (509) 8917662. www.littleeurorestaurant.com. $-$$ Old European. Many of the recipes behind the amazing breakfast creations at the Old European arrived with Marie Mekkelsen when she emigrated from Denmark to America in 1906 at age 18, and this restaurant has remained a family affair with everything made from scratch, including Marie’s amazing Danish Aebelskievers (ball pancakes cooked in a cast iron skillet over an open flame). In addition to the original aebelskievers, Old European offers them stuffed with blueberries, sausage and havarti, or huckleberries (in season) as well. Topped with whipped cream they are a true delight. Also worthy of note is the true, freshly squeezed orange juice and the massive Hungarian Goulash with shredded potatoes, peppers, onions, ham, sausage, bacon and four eggs topped with cheddar cheese and fresh tomatoes. North: 7640 N. Division, (509) 467-5987. Mon-Sat 6am-2p.m., Sun 7am-3p.m.. 1710 E Schneidmiller Ave, Post Falls. (208)777-2017. Mon-Sat 6:30-2, Sun 7-2:30p.m. www.oldeuropean-restaurant. com. $ Soulful Soups and Spirits. Show up a lunch for love in a bowl or in the evening for a beer, a glass of wine, or something stiffer. Five to seven different soups are offered daily with a fine Tomato Basil offered anytime the doors are open. Daily offerings are cooked from scratch and could include cream of spinach and mushroom, chicken artichoke, Spanish chili (vegan), or cheddar chicken. Don’t miss the hearty and wonderful beer bread, and if it is your birthday, ask about the infamous Fireball Spoon Shot. Open Mon 11am – midnight, TuesFri, 11 am – 2 am, Sat, 11 am – 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. – 2 am. Closed Sun. 117 N Howard in Spokane. (509) 459-1190. www.soulfulsoupsspokane.com. $

CASUAL DINING

315 Martinis and Tapas. Located within the historic Greenbriar Inn in Coeur d’Alene, this restaurant specializes in small plates with a global focus and well-crafted cocktails. Come sit in the intimate martini bar for happy hour beginning at 3:15 and enjoy drink and tapas specials, or share small plates or entrees along with live music on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights in the main dining room beginning at 6:00 p.m. Expect good service, great atmosphere and an experience you won’t soon forget. Tues - Sun from 3:15 to close. 315 Wallace Ave in Coeur d’Alene. (208) 667-9660. www.315martinisandtapas.com. $$-$$$. Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery. Casual and classy dining, specializing in craft cocktails. Holds the distinction of first distillery in the nation with a restaurant onsite. Perfect place for happy hour, or lunch on the patio. Try the Grilled Yellowfin Tuna Salad for wellblended, refreshing tastes in a generous portion. Pair with a house-created cocktail and some small-batch alcoholic ice cream. Open Monday-Sunday 11am-close. 1710 W. Riverstone Drive in Coeur D’Alene. www. bardenay.com $-$$. Hill’s Restaurant. Hill’s restaurant is back and rejuvenated. Hill’s offers an extensive menu with nine appetizers including the unique Scotch Egg, soups, vegetable dishes, ten salads including the Smoked Salmon Salad and the Seared Steak Salad, sandwiches, steaks, chicken, pork, and seafood en-

trees. Hill’s also makes their own pasta. Hill’s has always been a local favorite and they’re back with the same great food and a newly renovated location. The restaurant also features daily lunch and dinner specials worthy of a picky pallet. 401 W Main, Mon-Sat 11-10, Lounge until midnight Mon-Thurs and 2am Fri-Sat. (509) 747-3946. www.hillsrestaurantandlounge. com. $$-$$$ Palm Court Grill The Palm Court Grill offers upscale casual dining fare that highlight favorites discovered all around the world by Walt and Karen Worthy, the owners of the Davenport. Home to the original Crab Louis, named for original hotel owner Louis Davenport, the grill also serves USDA Prime beef and a fine wild salmon filet with a huckleberry champagne sauce. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily from 6 am to 9 p.m.. Reservations recommended. Private Dining room available, seating up to 30 people. 10 S Post. (509) 455-8888. $$-$$$

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Safari Room Fresh Grill and Bar. The Davenport Hotel Tower’s Safari Room Fresh Grill and Bar will add a spice of adventure to your dining experience featuring a full menu with a variety of tasty flatbreads, small plates, salads and gourmet sandwiches. Private Dining room available seating up to 30 people. (Flatbread is oven roasted thin bread that is topped with a variety of vegetables, fresh herbs, highly flavorful cheeses and meats) 111 S Post St. (Davenport Hotel Tower lobby). Serving breakfast 6-11, Lunch 11-4, Dinner 4-10, and Late Night 10-close. 509-455-8888 $$-$$$

FINE DINING Beverly’s. This flagship restaurant of the Coeur d’Alene Resort has recently remodeled its menu as well as its surroundings with great success. Among our favorite discoveries on the new menu is Beverly’s Wine Spectator Magazine Grand Award winning-wine list. As one of the top restaurants in America, Beverly’s features fresh Northwest ingredients including morel mushrooms, Idaho potatoes, and wild huckleberries. On the Lake in Coeur d’Alene. Visit www.cdaresort. com for the full menu. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2:30, dinner seven days, 5-10. (Lounge open 10-Close.) (208) 765-2300 ext. 23 or (800) 688-4142. $$$ Clinkerdagger. English pub décor overlooking the Spokane River. Known for their fresh seafood, steaks, and rock saltroasted prime rib, Clinkerdagger is a favorite eating place among locals. Their salmon filet is one of the best in the area. The Broadway Pea Salad and Blums Coffee Toffee Pie are two classics since 1974. Two cozy fireplaces make for a warm, friendly atmosphere; 621 W Mallon (in the Flour Mill). Lunch Mon-Fri 11:15-2:30, Sat 11:30-2:30, Dinner Mon-Thurs 4:30-9, Fri 4:30-9:30, Sat 4-9:30, Sun lounge 2-9 and dinner 3-8. (509) 328-5965. www.clinkerdagger.com. Lunch $$, Dinner $$$ Fleur de Sel. Patricia and Laurent Zirotti opened this hidden gem with a classical French soul, gracious service, and stunningly reasonable prices in the fall of 2008. Almost immediately, patrons of their former restaurant in Billings, MT began driving hundreds of miles for more of Laurent’s thoughtful and nourishing dishes and a chance to see Patricia’s warm smile. Take a risk and order the Snails in Puff Pastry to start and then dig deeper into an exceptional menu with generous entrées starting just above $10. Plan on making a reservation a week in advance or someone from Billings will have your table. Open at 5 p.m., last seating at 9 p.m., Tues – Sat. 4365 Inverness Drive in Post Falls. (208) 777-7600. www.fleur-desel.weebly.com $-$$$ Masselow’s at Northern Quest. Named after a strong chief that was instrumental in the survival of the Kalispels, Masselow’s combines the culinary heritage of the tribe with Northwest fine dining. The restaurant features an intimate and lavishly appointed dining room just off the hotel lobby in the new wing of the Northern Quest Resort and Casino in Airway Heights and serves up an Elk Sirloin and Seared Scallops worth the drive. Their chocolate mousse on the dessert menu is also a show stopper. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 100 North Hayford Road in Airway Heights. (509) 2427000. www.northernquest.com/dining/masselows. $$-$$$ Stacks at Steam Plant. Named for the twin smokestacks that have been a part of the downtown Spokane skyline for nearly a century, Stacks offers a full-service dining experience in a one-of-a-kind space. Unique private dining spaces include boiler rooms where the original pipes still line the walls and ceiling. Signature dishes are created from scratch and incorporate ingredients produced only at the Steam Plant – including smoked meats, fish and vegetables, and many of the ales brewed on-site. 3p.m. – 10p.m. Sun-Thurs, 3p.m. – 11p.m. FriSat. 159 S. Lincoln, under the smokestacks downtown. (509) 777-3900. www.steamplantspokane.com $$-$$$

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GET YOURS TODAY! 326-6794 | 1018 W Francis | www.theswingingdoors.com spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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ITALIAN Angelo’s Ristorante. This authentic, organic, Italian cuisine in downtown Coeur d’Alene is proof that Chef/Owner Angelo Brunson has been around long enough to know what he’s doing in the restaurant business. The romantic setting complements the romance in the menu as true Italian cooking should. Angelo’s offers pasta, chicken, veal, and steak entrees using all organic ingredients whenever possible. The menu includes simple Spaghetti and Meatballs to more extravagant Lobster Ravioli and Gorgonzola Port Wine Steak. Angelo’s also offers wine suggestions for each entrée and service to match its class. Angelo’s also offers full-service catering for your special occasion. 846 N 4th St, CDA. Dinner seven days from 5p.m.-10p.m.. (208)765-2850 www.angelosristorante.net $$-$$$ Ferrante’s Marketplace Café. This South Hill restaurant combines two great pastimes: gourmet Italian food and shopping. Ferrante’s offers a wide variety of gourmet pastas, pizzas, and paninis along with a kid’s menu and delicious gelato. Stop in for a full dinner or order it to go and shop in the marketplace while you wait. The marketplace offers unique gifts, such as jewelry, wines, cookies and candies, many from local vendors. Enjoy the neighborhood feel of this Italian café. 4516 S Regal. Tues-Sat 11-8p.m. (509) 443-6304. www. doitalian.com. $-$$ Italia Trattoria. Great Italian food from worldtraveled chef Anna Vogel in an intimate neighborhood bistro in Browne’s Addition. Vogel’s ingredients and dishes clearly express Italian sensibilities, but then go on to immediately transcend the “box” Americans have for Italian food. Expect to find a vibrant seasonal menu with both the simple and the adventurous: everything from classic spaghetti and meatballs to charred octopus in a spicy tomato oil. Vogel’s preparation of black cod with creamed white truffle potatoes and chanterelles is heaven on a plate. The weekend brunch is also drawing enthusiastic crowds. 144 South Cannon Street in Spokane. Brunch: 9 am – 2 p.m. Sat and Sun. Lunch: 11 am – 2 p.m. Tues - Fri. Dinner: Tues – Thur 5 – 9 p.m.

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and 5 – 10 p.m. Fri – Sat. Closed Mondays. (509) 459-6000. www.italiatrattoriaspokane. com. $-$$$ Italian Kitchen. Owners Bryce and Lyndsay Kerr have created a beautiful and charming décor along with exquisite cuisine, not to mention the remarkable hospitality. Known for its Calamari, Tiramisu, and Lasagna from scratch, the Italian Kitchen is as authentic as you’ll find. They were recently placed on the “Best of the Best” list, which honors the top 17 Italian restaurants in the nation. 113 N Bernard. Lunch Mon-Fri 11-3:30, Dinner MonThur 3:30-9, Fri 3:30-10, Sat 4:30-10, Sun 4:309. (509) 363-1210. www.italiankitchenspokane. com. $$ Tito’s Italian Grill and Wine Shop. Located on Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene, Tito’s offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a wide selection of Italian favorites ranging from pizza to pasta. Reasonable pricing and large portions assure you won’t leave hungry; outdoor seating available in season. Don’t miss the piping hot Garlic Romano Fries or a local favorite, the Loaded Idaho Potato Pizza. Recent renovations include the addition of a retail wine shop with over 100 labels, Italian and domestic. Tito’s to-go also available. Sun-Thurs, 11 am – 9 p.m.; Fri-Sat, 11 am – 10 p.m. 210 E. Sherman Avenue in Coeur d’Alene. (208) 6672782. www.titomacaroni.com. $$-$$$ Uva Trattoria. Brother and sister chefs Lisa and Steve Vanzeveren opened Uva with a vision of creating a Napa Valley bistro for the Coeur d’Alene community. They’ve done just that with a simple menu of hearty Italian classics, an extensive wine list, generous portions and a light, friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood restaurant offers calamari (dredged in rice flour instead of wheat), lasagna, chicken piccata and house-made tiramisu, as well as fresh salads made with organic and locallysourced ingredients. They also offer glutenfree pizza and pasta. Rustic and authentic, Uva is fairly priced and suitable for families or couples looking for a clean and modern lunch or dining spot. Open Sun-Thurs 11-9, Fri-Sat 1110. 2605 N 4th St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. (208) 818-9257, www.uvacda.com. $$

spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

MEDITERRANEAN AND MIDDLE EASTERN Mediterraneo. Mediterranean. Greek and Turkish influences abound on a small but tasty menu. The main event is the gyro pita made with lamb and beef cut hot off the rotisserie topped with tahini, tzatziki and a house made hummus. The airy restaurant is located in Saranac Commons on Main Street and features an open kitchen and order-at-the-counter casualness, ideal for a quick midday lunch, afternoon snack or easy (and healthy!) dinner. The house also makes fresh dolmas: grape leaves stuffed with ground lamb, rice, onion, currants, pine nuts, and seasoned with mint, cumin, allspice, and a touch of dill. The marinated Portobello mushroom burger is delicious for vegetarians and meat eaters alike, paired nicely with fried potatoes seasoned with lots of garlic, flakes of red pepper, parmesan cheese and either a house made lemon aioli or cumin ketchup. Lastly, the tight menu offers a vegan Basmati rice bowl with fresh herbs and vegetables and a tasting dish called hummus mezze: a sampling of pita bread slices, local organic hummus, 3 olive tapenade, and babaganoosh— perfect for sharing the Mediterranean way! 19 W Main Ave. Mon-Sat 11am-2pm, Dinner 4-9pm. medi-terrano.com. $-$$

salami, artichoke hearts, and other delights) for a fresh start to your meal. Renatus has a reputation for its homemade hummus, as well as its pizza. You can find old friends like the Margherita kitted out with fresh basil and a balsamic reduction, more adventurous options like the gyro pizza with a tzatziki sauce topped with gyro fixings or the veggie pizza with a hummus base layer. Tues-Thurs 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm, Sun 4-8pm, Closed Mon. 10411 N Newport Hwy. (509) 368-9871. $-$$$ The White House Mediterranean Grill. Mediterranean. If you love garlic, you’ll love this cozy, romantic restaurant. Here, you feel as if you are in the Mediterranean without the high cost of travel. Try the popular Chilean Sea Bass that has turned first timers into regular customers. The Whitehouse offers 110 wine selections and now offers a full bar. Reservations are recommended. 712 N Spokane Street, Post Falls, ID. Mon-Thurs 11-10, Fri-Sat 11-11. (208) 777-9672. www. thewhitehousegrill.com. $-$$$

PIZZA

The Olympia Restaurant. Greek. Eva and Angelo Itskos preside over the kitchen at The Olympia and turn out classic Greek comfort food at great prices. Five compelling reasons to come in: (1) warm wait staff, (2) the brillian Saganaki (fried cheese with pita bread), (3) the chicken gyro spiced with the house’s secret marinade, (4) the “Greek” fries, and (5) the house-made rice pudding with a citrus note. Mon-Wed 11am-3pm, Thur –Sat 11am-8pm. 301 Lakeside Avenue in CDA. (208) 666-9495. $-$$.

The Flying Goat. Careful thought went into the design of this pub and pizza sibling of the Downriver Grill— and it’s paying off. The Goat offers both classic and artisan toppings on Neapolitan-style pies, the “char” on the crust imparting a distinctive, crunchy flavor. Try the surprising Kiernan and wash it down with a craft beer (14 taps, 1 gravityfed cask beer, and over 50 more in bottles). The Goat has a “Mug Club” for regulars; all dishes are named after neighborhood quirks – see if you can decipher their menu-cryptography. Open daily at 11 am. Closes at 10 p.m. (11 on Fri and Sat). 3318 West Northwest Boulevard in Spokane. (509) 327-8277. www.theflyinggoat.com. $$

Renatus. Mediterranean. With an inventive approach to Mediterranean cuisine, Renatus lives up to its namesake which means “born again.” Why have one kind of Greek salad when you can have three? Try the Village (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, herbs), House (add feta, nix the cucumbers, served on a bed of greens) or Classic (toss in pepperoni,

Mackenzie River Pizza. When they first opened over 22 years ago in Bozeman, Montana, it was quality and uniqueness that most attracted their loyal customers. The original menu included a nice variety of delicious pizzas, salads and sandwiches. With now over 23 locations including four in the Pacific Northwest, the menu encompass ev-

Best Vegetarian

Best Salad

Best Chef

erything they’ve crafted and improved upon since their modest beginning but also aim to take menu creativity, freshness and selection to a whole new level. ½ lb all-beef burgers, fish tacos, and meatloaf to name a few. All Spokane and CDA locations boast a full bar. Open daily for lunch, dinner and inbetween. Northside: 9225 N Nevada, (509) 413-1043. South Hill: 2910 E 57th Ave, (509) 315-9466. Downtown: 818 W Riverside Ave, (509) 315-4447. Coeur d’Alene: 405 W Canfield Ave, (208) 772-5111. $-$$$ Republic Pi. From the purveyors of The Flying Goat is the South Hill version of artisan pizza goodness. The overall unique pizza-gourmet salad-craft beer concept is the same, but with little menu overlap (favorites like the Dalton, Waikiki and Kiernan are served at both locations). Prior to pies, try the Rockwood Avocado sliced, beer battered, fried and served with Pico de Gallo and lime crème, or the spicy and addictive Cliff Park Brussels Sprouts roasted with crispy bacon, balsamic, cracked pepper and chili flakes. Pizzas come in two varieties: ”Traditionalists,” like The District with red sauce, sopressetta, fresh basil, cremini mushrooms and smoked fresh mozzarella, and “Progressives,” like The Republic, a puttanesca pizza topped with tomatoes, capers, Kalamata olives, green onion, basil and fresh mozzarella. A wide selection of locally-focused beer on tap, wine, cocktails and a dessert menu round out the experience. 611 E 30th Ave. Sun-Thur 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. (509) 863-9196. South Perry Pizza. Fresh, innovative pies (minus the gourmet pretension) in the heart of the Perry district on Spokane’s South Hill. Located in a former auto body shop, the restaurant has an open kitchen centered around an open-flame pizza oven that turns out brilliant pizzas with a yeasty bready crust that has good chew and the right amount of char. Try the popular Margherita, Veggie, Prosciutto, or one of their creative daily specials. 6 microbrews on tap and several fresh salads start things off right. The garage doors roll up in good weather for patio seating. 11 am – 9 p.m., Tues - Sun. 1011 South Perry Street in Spokane. (509) 290-6047. www.southperrypizzaspokane.com. $$

PUB AND LOUNGE FARE

LUNCH Mon-Fri 11am-2pm DINNER Mon-Sat 5pm-Close TWILIGHT MENU Mon-Wed 5pm-6pm 3 COURSES FOR $20

• • • • • •

509.838.4600 • 115 N Washington St. Spokane, WA 99201

Seafood Baked Salmon Buffalo Top Sirloin Prawns & Linguine Spinach Artichoke Halibut Huckleberry Top Sirloin Oven Roasted Lamb

1 Block South of Auntie's Bookstore

www.HerbalEssenceCafe.com On and Offsite Catering Available

The Blackbird Tavern and Kitchen. Head straight to the bar where there are 34 beers (and 4 wines) on electronic tap, or take a seat at a squishy leather booth at a butcher block table. If it’s warm enough, you might want to sit on the patio under strings of Edison light bulbs. Located in the historic Broadview Dairy Building just north of downtown, the Blackbird offers southern-inspired gastropub fare like Bacon Fat Popcorn, Marinated Scallops and a bevy of burgers. A convenient location, kind, attentive service, the chance to try ingredients and combinations unlike any other area restaurant, bottomless mimosas at brunch and a bit of homey resemblance to its sister restaurant Manito Tap House on the South Hill make it a solid choice for friends and families alike. 905 N Washington. Open Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat-Sun 8am-1pm, 3-11pm. (509) 392-4000. theblackbirdspokane.com. $$ Elk Public House. A popular neighborhood hangout, Elk specializes in lamb sandwiches, 74th Street Gumbo and burgers with a twist. Relaxed atmosphere, but noise level can be… festive! It’s a great place to meet on the weekends for lunch or dinner. The Elk has 18 varieties of beer on tap and well-chosen wines. The Elk also has one of the best summer patios around. 1931 W Pacific. Sun-Wed 11am-10pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-11pm. (509) 363-1973. $-$$ Manito Tap House. Manito is living into its name as a gastropub that offers high-quality dining fare to go with their 50 beers on tap. A fun pub atmosphere and friendly service make this a great hangout. Try the yam chips, the Carne Adovada, the Murphy’s Beef Boxty, or the inventive veggie burger that comes inside out,. 11 am – 11 p.m. Sun – Thu. Open until 2 am Fri – Sat. 3011 South Grand Blvd in Spokane. (509) 279-2671. www.manitotaphouse.com. $-$$ O’Doherty’s Irish Grille. Traditional Irish pub fare. Reuben sandwiches, fish and chips, burgers and salads are the specialties. An outdoor eating area in this downtown restaurant overlooks Spokane Falls Boulevard and Riverfront Park; perfect for early evening dining and people watching. Live folk music most Tuesday evenings. 525 W Spokane Falls Blvd. SunMon 11:30-9, Tues-Thurs 11:30-11, Fri-Sat 11:30-1am. (509) 747-0322 $-$$ O’Doherty’s Irish Pub and BBQ Catering Company. The valley pub with a family-friendly dining room, a traditional Irish menu, and Southern-style barbeque done on the premises thanks of massive smoker installed by the former tenant, Smoky’s BBQ. Try the Guinness beer-battered fish and chips,

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317 SHERMAN AVE, COEUR D'ALENE ID || 208-664-9463 spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

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Spokane tradition since 1959! the slow cooked corned beef, and the smoky pulled pork. In addition to the beers on tap, the bar includes a line-up of high-quality Scotch. Opens at 11:30 am during the week and 9 am for breakfast on the weekend. 11723 E Sprague Ave in the Valley. (509) 924-2578. www.odohertysirishpub.com. $-$$ The Onion. Established in 1978, the Onion is the grand dean of gourmet burgers and casual family dining in Spokane. From the Hula burger with ham and grilled pineapple, the “Big O” with bacon and avocado, to their namesake beer-battered onion rings, The Onion pays attention to details and does more from scratch than many other restaurants aspiring to loftier appellations. 302 W. Riverside, Sun-Thurs 11-11, Fri-Sat 11am1am. (509) 747-3852; 7522 N Division, Mon-Sun 11-11. (509) 482-6100 (Bar until midnight Sun-Thurs, Fri-Sat until 1). $-$$ Peacock Room. It is all about martinis, cold beer and great music. Known as the place to see and be seen, the Peacock Room contributes to Spokane’s vibrant downtown nightlife. Showcasing a giant stained-glass peacock ceiling, the menu features such items as giant prawntinis, open-faced crab sandwiches and gourmet onion rings. Casual attire. Private Dining room available seating up to 25 people. Mon-Thurs 11-midnight, Fri-Sat 11-1am, Sun 2-midnight. 10 S Post. (509) 455-8888. $$-$$$

Holiday catering for all occasions! HAPPY HOUR 11am to 6pm M-F

Post Street Ale House. This floor to rafter renovation of the former Fugazzi space in the Hotel Lusso by Walt and Karen Worthy of the Davenport gives downtown Spokane a great English-style pub with a striking bar, twenty beers on tap, and a reasonably priced menu built around comfort food. We feel they do some of their fried food particularly well: the Halibut and Chips, the Fried Mozzarella “cubes,” and the Ale House Fried Pickles. If you are hungry, try the Guinness Braised Short Ribs served over mashed potatoes and topped with a pan gravy chunky with vegetables. 11 am – 2 am daily. N 1 Post Street. (509) 789-6900. $-$$ Steam Plant Brewing Co. & Pub. An amazing location for a brewery – under layers of catwalks and an 80’ ceiling inside the renovated steam plant. The brewery produces eleven handcrafted microbrews on-site, from their famous Double Stack Stout to several seasonal varieties. Its microbrews are also available to go in kegs and growlers. The Pub features multiple flat-screen TVs and a game room to make a night of it. The brews are complemented by signature menu items like the Coal Bunker cheese bread, smoked steelhead and beer cheese soup. 3p.m. – 10p.m. Sun-Thurs, 3p.m. – 11p.m. FriSat. 159 S. Lincoln, under the smokestacks downtown. (509) 777-3900. www.steamplantspokane.com $$ Steelhead Bar and Grill. Since its opening in May 2006, the Steelhead Bar and Grille has been an upscale downtown pub with an atmosphere evocative of Northwest living. The bar is intelligently stocked, especially with Bourbon and Canadian whiskies. Entrees include the Steel Burger and the “Downtown” Linguine. Sun-Mon 11-11, Tues-Thurs 11-midnight, Fri-Sat 11-12 (Bar open until 2am). 218 N Howard. (509) 7471303. $-$$

Best BBQ

509.835.5466

redlionbbq.com 126 N. Division Spokane 99202

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The Swinging Doors. Opened in May of 1981, the tavern turned restaurant has been in the same family for its whole life. With 27 beers on tap and 60 television screens, The Swinging Doors is a sports fan’s paradise. On the food front, the restaurant is famous for its large portions (which can be split). Breakfast is served all day and the huge pieces of Broasted Chicken remain the most popular item on the golfthemed menu. Show up for on your birthday for a free steak dinner. Open seven days a week from 6:45 am to 2 am. 1018 West Francis in Spokane. (509) 326-6794. www.theswingingdoors.com. $-$$ Tamarack Public House. Farm-to-table focused gastropub Tamarack highlights the region’s ever-growing brewery and distillery scene, sourcing their menu from local family-run operations and offering two bars (a main floor and loft bar) within its revived downtown historic building on Sprague. A small and focused menu offers such canvivorous options as the Bavarian Bratwurst and Tamarack Burger, as well as a gluten-free and vegan choices like the Drunken Kale Salad and a variety of vegetable-heavy focaccia pizzas. Kombucha on tap and a well-rounded selection of craft brews and spirits completes the casual urban dining experience. Mon-Thur 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30pm-1am, closed Sun. 912 W Sprague Ave, (509) 315-4846. www.facebook.com/tamarackpublichouse. $$. Timber. A sleek yet laidback gastropub in Post Falls, Timber is all about nostalgia with its sepia-hued history of the region’s logging industry on their walls and a friendly wait staff bedecked in lumberjack-chic red suspenders. The diverse menu puts its focus on pizza with star attractions like BBQ Roadhouse (brisket, pulled pork, German sausage, sliced apple and house-made cheese blend). Other gastropub-esque dishes in-

clude the duck quesadilla, a surprisingly creative house salad, and chocolate Stromboli. More conventional favorites like the “Consummate Burger” and airline chicken also pepper the menu. Timber has enough funky dishes to earn its gastro pub cred, where new combinations are likely to become old favorites. 1610 E Schneidmiller Ave, Post Falls, ID 83854. MonThur 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm. (208) 262-9593. facebook.com/timbergastropub $$. The Two Seven. This South Hill neighborhood restaurant was created by the owners of The Elk, Moontime, and The Porch. So, it’s no surprise that it has been a hit since day one. Offering unique menu items as well as favorites from the other restaurants (including the corn pasta and infamous Caesar Soft Taco) you will certainly not be disappointed. The wine list is extensive for what may be considered pub-like fare and they have 17 microbrews on tap, which are always phenomenal. The patio seating is always in high demand, but you get the neighborhood-pub feel on the inside as well. 2727 South Mt Vernon #5. Open seven days 11-11. (509) 473-9766. $-$$

STEAK HOUSES Churchill’s Steakhouse. Carved into the first floor and basement of the Joel Building is this temple dedicated to dryaged USDA Prime steaks and possibly the only ground Prime burger in the region (it is brilliant and shows up weekly in the basement bar as a $7 special). The dining room has all the pomp and circumstance for a great celebration meal (and prices to match) while the bar below has the intimate feel of a high class club and a separate menu with a few lighter items not offered upstairs. Open daily: 4 – 9 p.m. on Sun, 4 – 10 p.m. Mon to Thur, and 4 – 11 p.m. Fri and Sat. 165 South Post in Spokane. (509) 474-9888. www.churchillssteakhouse. com $$-$$$$ Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops. Greeted with dark mahogany paneling and crisp linens, Spencer’s has been a destination for USDA Prime beef for almost 15 years. Try the signature bone-in Spencer Ribeye or pull out all the stops and order the dry-aged New York Strip. Beautiful fish and seafood are also featured and the kitchen offers a number of classic side dishes also – including a memorable au gratin hash browns laced with smoked bacon, sweet onions, and cheddar cheese. Open Mon-Thurs 11:30-10, Fri-Sat 11:30-11, Sun 11:30 - 9. 322 North Spokane Falls Court inside the Doubletree. (509) 744-2372. www.spencersforsteaksandchops.com/ spokane. $$-$$$$

OTHER Brain Freeze Creamery. Ice cream, espresso drinks and sandwiches are offered all day at this welcoming, family-friendly spot in Kendall Yards. The small-batch creamery supplies their own storefronts (Kendall Yards and South Grand Blvd). They offer 24 different flavors with at least a few vegan and dairyfree options each day. Try a scoop of their famed Palouse Crunch, a blend of cinnamon ice cream, red lentils and candied almonds, or Muddy Cups-Dirty Dishes, a brownie batter ice cream studded with mini peanut butter cups. Another favorite is Cakey Doe, vanilla cake batter ice cream with chunks of chocolate chip cookie dough. Anvil coffee and espresso and a small selection of hearty sandwiches broaden the menu just enough to suit everyone’s tastes. 1238 W Summit Parkway, Spokane. Sun – Thurs 7am-9pm, Fri & Sat 7am-10pm, www.brainfreeze.bz (509) 321-7569. $-$$.

SIGNATURE DISH CHURCHILL'S

Churchill’s Cowboy Cut Rib Eye Steak

photo Hamilton Studios

by Chris Street

CHURCHILL’S

is the Tiffany’s of restaurants in Spokane. They’ve been around for years and have gotten a reputation with a younger restaurant crowd as a bit stuffy, outdated and overpriced, but, things change, and as we’ve seen with Spokane’s restaurant scene, things have gotten hip here in Eastern Washington and so has this icon of downtown fine dining. The Cowboy Cut Rib Steak with garlic mashed potatoes and sugar snap peas ($58) is a signature dish of Churchill’s. At 24 ounces, the rib steak is easily enough food for two, especially with a few sides, like creamed corn ($7) and sautéed asparagus with a balsamic reduction ($8). The steak comes generously seasoned, marbled in texture and buttery in flavor; perfectly cooked to medium rare, it’s complemented by the crisp consistency of vibrantly green-colored, delicately sweet snap peas and velvet smooth whipped potatoes infused with garlic and fresh

herbs. This signature dish is a standout on what is a menu full of new options like flown-in-fresh stone crab claws. In defense of Churchill’s entree prices, chalk it up to increased cost of doing business, not owner avarice. Beef prices went up last year due to severe drought in cattle country and the subsequent rise in the cost of feed. So, it’s unfair to say overpriced and Churchill’s in the same sentence. Expensive, yes. Overpriced, no. Understanding how they procure meat will help you understand why the price is higher than some other restaurants in Spokane, and in turn, appreciate the truly nice cut of beef that comes off their grill. Churchill’s buys only 100% USDA Prime which is the best and finest meat available in America, then proceeds to select the top 2% of those prime cattle from four select feed lots. So what you get is the absolute best of the best. Kudos to Churchill’s: they could have gone with less tender beef and lowered costs, but instead stayed true to their roots of a Chicago-styled steak house where quality reigns supreme. Churchill’s is no longer a restaurant for only the country club set. Enter the fete set. A hot spot for Spokane’s young, hip and upwardly mobile to see and be seen as well as to dine. The Cowboy Cut Rib Steak is Churchill’s sumptuous contribution. Churchill’s Steak House is located at 165 S. Post St., in Spokane, and is open daily, 4- 10 p.m. (509) 474-9888, www.churchillssteakhouse.com

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spokanecda.com • DECEMBER • 2015

The Delicious New Pour Local Hard Cider by Chris Lozier

ider is enjoying a renaissance in America, and Washington is one of the leaders of the charge. In four short years, five cideries have opened in the Spokane aand Coeur d’Alene area, making delicious ciders that appeal to every palate. Wine enthusiasts appreciate the local abundance of dry, nuanced ciders bursting with tannins and spices, and beer fans love the creative fruit and hop infusions. But for all the parallels between cider, wine and beer, cider holds its own, and you can have a lot of fun finding out why. Will and Jackie Jordan opened the area’s first cidery, Twilight Cider Works, on Green Bluff in 2011. The Jordans use apples from neighboring farms and cider apples, cherries, peaches and other fruits that they grow themselves to craft six staple artisan ciders, as well as different seasonals like their huckleberry cider. Twilight takes a traditional approach to cider making, letting the tart, tannic, complex qualities of the cider apples speak for themselves. “The way cider used to be made is the way I do it today,” says Will, who starts the process in the fall, when the apples are freshly harvested and the temperature is right for fermentation. “I age it until spring, and I bottle it then.” In downtown Spokane, Rick Hastings of Liberty Ciderworks says they keep the apple front and center, as well. “We’re trying to keep the apple the focus of every beverage,” says Hastings. “Traditionally, cider is apples - that’s it. It’s basically wine made with apples. Same process, same outcome. If you were looking for flavors and nuance, it was coming from the apples or the yeast that was working on the fruit or the juice after it’s been pressed.” Hastings says that a current shortage of cider apples, which offer more flavor complexity than table apples,

has required them and many other cider makers to find creative new ways to make interesting cider. Liberty has addressed the shortage by using crabapples from Prosser, Washington, and sourcing from small orchards like Steury Orchards in Potlatch, Idaho, and Bishops Orchard in Garfield, Washington. Bishops dedicates over three acres of their orchard to Liberty, even growing several varieties exclusively for them. Liberty also collaborates with local distilleries, like Tinbender Craft Distillery, which will soon distill a spirit to fortify Liberty’s pommeau, and Dry Fly Distilling, which provides gin botanicals and whiskey barrels for flavoring and aging some of Liberty’s ciders. “In America, there has always been a sense of latitude in terms of what you do with cider,” explains Hastings. “In other parts of the world, there are fairly strong traditions, and they don’t really vary from that, but in the US it’s much more wide open because that’s kind of our tradition.” That latitude (and good cider) has helped One Tree Hard Cider in Spokane Valley to grow over 100 percent in their one year of business. They distribute all across Washington, and plan to launch in Oregon and Montana next year. Grant Barnes says their goal is to have something for everyone, so they make dry, crisp ciders, as well as a full line of authentic flavored ciders, using whole ingredients like ginger root and basil. “We’re using real ingredients in our cider - like our Caramel Cinnamon - we make a true caramel sauce and add it to our wine base,” explains Barnes. “There’s no need to put anything artificial in the cider to make it taste great.” Barnes says their offerings suit every season, with their Cranberry, Ginger and Caramel Cinnamon being

holiday favorites. One Tree offers summer flavors, as well, like their lemon basil. The flavors are also found in Hayden, Idaho, where you can find a thirst-quenching pint of Lake City Hopped Cider at North Idaho Cider, and in Coeur d’Alene, Summit Cider features raspberry and apricot infused summer ciders at their taproom. “We want people to drink a pint and fill a growler,” says Summit’s Jason Parker, who says their cidery is much like a brewery. “Drinkability is a big thing for us.” Sweet, fruited, hopped or dry, our local cideries have many tasty offerings, made with real ingredients sourced close to home. Do yourself a favor and find out how delicious they are.

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Tis the season for a Join us in celebrating the December issue of Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living magazine

December 10th, 2015 | 5-8pm Food, Beer, Wine & Music! 2426 N. Discovery Place Spokane Valley, WA 99216

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57 76 129 61 67 33 93 46 ?? 30 81 6, 123 4 27 124 83 120 118 77 29 25 20 109 98 108 63 45 117 5 112 9 135 52 124 48 36 14 39 144 115 35 118 120 85 85

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