Best of 2012 by The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle newspaper

The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012 •

www.omakchronicle.com

News • C1

Chronicle readers’ picks for the best businesses, services, entertainment and recreational spots in Okanogan Country.

North area ‘Best of’ businesses, sites named Readers say best businesses are Prickly Pear, Riverside Grocery

1. Consumer Auto Liquidators, Omak (tie)

Recreational vehicles 1. Choice Automotive and RV, Omak 2. Omak Marine, Omak

The Chronicle OMAK – The Chronicle’s annual “Best of’” showcases a plethora of different readers’ favorites in the northern and southern areas of Okanogan Country. Hundreds of readers sent in or dropped off votes for their favorites in a several categories. As usual, some winners repeated and some newer businesses found their ways to the forefront. Now, some of those that made it to the forefront proudly display their certificates. Shellrock Point, between Omak and Okanogan, serves as the north-south dividing line. Ferry County is part of the north area; the Methow Valley and Grand Coulee Dam area are part of the south. Without further adieu, here are the area’s best:

Best business 1. Prickly Pear, Omak 2. Riverside Grocery, Riverside

Customer service 1. Corner Bistro, Omak 2. Prickly Pear, Omak

Entertainment venue 1. Omak Stampede Arena, Omak 2. Omak Mirage Theater, Omak

Fishing/hunting location 1. Conconully 2. Palmer Lake

Camping location 1. Conconully State Park 2. Bonaparte Lake Resort

ATV/snowmobile/ hiking/trails 1. Conconully 2. Tunk Mountain

Skiing/ snowboarding area 1. Sitzmark Ski Hill 2. Crawfish Lake Sno-Park

Park/playground 1. East Side Park, Omak 2. Legacy Park, Tonasket

Community festival/event

Medical facility 1. Wenatchee Valley Medical Center, Omak 2. Curlew Medical Clinic, Curlew

Dentist 1. Grillo Family Dentistry, Omak 2. Gary Bramer D.D.S., Omak

Optometrist 1. Ugo Bartell of Wenatchee Valley Medical Clinic, Omak 2.Eye and Ear Clinic, Omak

Veterinarian

Roger Harnack/The Chronicle

Performers jam during the 2012 Okanogan Family Faire on Cayuse Mountain. The event — which includes music, dance, food, bartering and buying — was voted by Chronicle readers as the north area’s top community event/festival. 1. Okanogan Family Faire 2. Omak Stampede

Golf course 1. Oroville Municipal Golf Course, Oroville

Museum 1. Molson Museum, Molson 2. Stonerose Interpretive Center and Eocene Fossil Site, Republic

Scenic view 1. Omak Lake 2. Sherman Pass

Fireworks 1. East Side Park, Omak 2. Lake Osoyoos, Oroville

Accommodations 1. Best Western Peppertree Inn, Omak 2. Rodeway Inn, Omak

Auto services 1. Choice Automotive and RV, Omak 2. Top Notch Auto, Omak (tie) 2. Fletcher’s Auto Repair, Omak (tie)

Financial institution 1. Coulee Dam Credit Union, Omak (tie) 1. NCNB, Omak (tie)

Real estate company

1. John L. Scott, Omak 2. Scheel Realty, Omak

Photography 1. Leeshy Lou Photography, Omak 2. The Chronicle, Omak

Pet services 1. Joey’s Bark and Bath, Omak 2. Okanogan Valley Pet Resort, Omak

Civic organization

Riverside 2. Aussie’s Antiques, Tonasket

1. Community Cultural Center, Tonasket 2. Eagle Cliff Grange, Curlew

Farm supply

Government agency 1. City of Omak 2. U.S. Forest Service, Republic office

Beauty salon

Grocery store

1. Ponytails, Omak 2. Expressions Hair Design and Day Spa, Omak

1. Gene’s Harvest Foods, Omak 2. Safeway, Omak

Floral shop

Convenience store

1. A Cut Above, Omak 2. Safeway, Omak

Law practice 1. Gunn Law Offices, Omak 2. Callaway and DeTro Law Offices, Omak

Contractor 1. Mike Ray’s Construction, Riverside 2. Stitchwork Upholstery, Omak

School district 1. Tonasket 2. Omak

Fire department 1. Omak 2. Curlew

1. Riverside Grocery, Riverside 2. The Junction, Tonasket

We appreciate your vote! 3 E. Dewberry, Omak • 509-826-1160

1. Walmart, Omak 2. Rite Aid, Omak

1. Omak Feed and Supply, Omak 2. Big R, Omak

Guns/pawn

1. Hometown Pizza, Oroville 2. Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Omak

Restaurant 1. Breadline Cafe, Omak 2. Corner Bistro, Omak

1. Dave’s Gun and Pawn, Riverside

Hardware/lumber 1. Ace Hardware, Omak 2. Midway Building Supply, Oroville

Electronic/Internet services 1. NCI Data, Omak 2. Intrigue Communications, Omak

1. Sunrise Chevrolet, Omak (tie)

Winery/brewery 1. Rockwall Cellars, Omak 2. Esther Bricques Winery, Tonasket

Bar/tavern 1. Omak Bar and Grill, Omak 2. Riverside Bar and Grill, Riverside

Espresso/coffee 1. The Pumphouse Coffee Co., Omak 2. Country Cabin Espresso, Omak

Gift shop/jewelry 1. Prickly Pear, Omak 2. Grandma’s Attic, Omak

Furniture 1. Cramer’s Home Furnishings, Omak 2. Grandma’s Attic, Omak

Antique/ second-hand

OMAK BAR & GRILL & $ % #

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1. Riverside Grocery,

Curlew Medical Center

OMAK FEED & SUPPLY would like to thank everyone for the “Best of”!

Pharmacy Burgers/pizza

Clothing/shoe store Car dealership 1. J.C. Penney Co., Omak 2. Prickly Pear, Omak

1. Alpine Veterinary Clinic, Omak 2. Oroville Veterinary Hospital, Oroville

Attorney at Law Jennifer Tollefson photo

C2 •

News • The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012

www.omakchronicle.com

Readers choose top south county locations The Club, Rawson’s score ‘Best of’ wins Best business 1. The Club, Okanogan 2. Rawson’s Department Store, Okanogan

Customer service 1. Rawson’s Department Store, Okanogan 2. Salmon Creek Coffee Co., Okanogan

Entertainment venue

1. Vern’s Automotive, Okanogan 2. OK Tire Factory, Okanogan

Financial institution 1. NCNB, Okanogan 2. Coulee Dam Credit Union, Grand Coulee

Real estate company 1. Windermere, Twisp 2. The Land Company, Brewster

Photography

1. Okanogan County Fairgrounds, Okanogan 2. Coulee Dam Casino, Coulee Dam

1. Tim Patrick Photography, Okanogan 2. Jennifer Tollefson Photography, Brewster

Fishing/hunting location

Pet services

1. Lake Rufus Woods 2. Lake Roosevelt

Camping location 1. Pearrygin State Park, Winthrop 2. Bridgeport State Park

ATV/Snowmobile/h iking/trails 1. Twisp-to-Winthrop 2. Omak Lake

Skiing/ snowboarding area 1. Loup Loup Ski Bowl 2. Methow Valley Sports Trails Association routes

Park/playground 1. Brewster City Park, Brewster 2. Legion Park, Okanogan

Community festival/event

1. Heather’s Dog Grooming, Okanogan

Beauty salon 1. Giddy Up Salon, Okanogan 2. Sage Brush Beauty Shop, Twisp

Floral shop 1. Derina’s Flower Basket, Okanogan 2. Nelson’s Flowers, Okanogan

Law practice 1. Smith and Derting, Okanogan 2. Reinbold and Gardner Law Offices, Okanogan

Contractor

Al Camp/The Chronicle

Loup Loup Ski Bowl, the south county area’s top skiing and snowboarding venue, takes a trio of enthusiasts up the mountain. 2. Methow Valley

Fire department 1. Malott 2. Okanogan

1. Pete Peterson Plumbing, Okanogan 2. Valley Lumber, Okanogan

Civic organization

School district

1. Okanogan-Omak Rotary, Okanogan 2. American Legion, Brewster

1. Okanogan

Grocery store 1. Caso’s Country Foods, Okanogan 2. Hank’s Market, Twisp

1. Pateros Superstop, Pateros 2. Carlton General Store, Carlton

Golf course 1. Alta Lake Golf Course, Pateros 2. Okanogan Valley Golf Course, Okanogan

Clothing/shoe store 1. Rawson’s Department Store, Okanogan 2. Heatstroke Printing, Okanogan

Museum 1. Okanogan County Historical Society Museum, Okanogan 2. Colville Tribal Museum, Coulee Dam

Gift shop/jewelry 1. Rawson’s Department Store, Okanogan 2. Ulrich’s Pharmacy, Twisp

Scenic view

Furniture

1. Washington Pass 2. Grand Coulee Dam

Fireworks 1. Brewster 2. Grand Coulee Dam

Accommodations

Auto services

1. City of Pateros 2. City of Okanogan

Convenience store

1. Okanogan County Fair 2. ‘49er Days, Winthrop

1. Sun Mountain Lodge, Winthrop 2. Twisp River Suites, Twisp

Government agency

Al Camp/The Chronicle

The Ferris Wheel is lit up at dusk during the Okanogan County Fair. The fairgrounds and fair are south county winners.

1. Hamilton Farm Equipment, Okanogan 2. Ag Technologies, Okanogan

Guns/pawn 1. Neal’s Gun and Pawn, Okanogan

Hardware/lumber 1. Valley Lumber, Okanogan 2. Ace Hardware, Brewster

Electronic/Internet services 1. CommunityNet, Okanogan 2. Methownet.com, Winthrop

Car dealership 1. Best Deal Auto, Brewster 2. Elmway Auto, Okanogan

Okanogan

Optometrist 1.Indian Health Service, Okanogan 2. Milton Herman, Twisp

Veterinarian 1. Okanogan Valley Veterinary Clinic, Okanogan 2. Methow Valley Veterinary Hospital, Winthrop

Pharmacy 1. Brewster Drug, Brewster 2. Okanogan Valley Pharmacy, Okanogan

Burgers/pizza 1. The Club, Okanogan 2. Hometown Pizza, Twisp

Restaurant

Recreational vehicles

1. River’s Restaurant, Pateros 2. The Club, Okanogan

1. Xtreme Powersports, Okanogan 2. Hamilton Farm Equipment, Okanogan

Winery/brewery 1. Twisp River Pub and 2. Methow Valley Brewing Co., Twisp

1. Webster’s Furniture, Brewster 2. Loepp’s, Grand Coulee

Medical facility

Antique/ second-hand

1. Three Rivers Hospital, Brewster 2. Methow Valley Wellness Center, Winthrop

1. The Farm Shed, Okanogan 2. Twisp Senior Center, Twisp

Dentist

Espresso/coffee

1. Caring Dental Center, Okanogan 2. Indian Health Service,

1. Salmon Creek Coffee Co., Okanogan 2. Blue Star Coffee, Twisp

Farm supply

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU ! THANK YOU! Thank you students, parents and community for allowing us to serve you!

The Okanogan School District Staff and Board Voted “Best Of” School District South Okanogan Country

Bar/tavern 1. The Club, Okanogan 2. El Paraiso Mexican Restaurant, Okanogan

The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012 •

www.omakchronicle.com

News • C3

Salmon Creek brings a good vibe Second Avenue spot showcasing local talent By Al Camp The Chronicle OKANOGAN – Captivating entertainment in a small, warm and friendly venue featuring great coffee and eats led to The Chronicle’s “Best Of” award for The Salmon Creek Coffee Co. “Thursday nights, I bet there is no cooler place in San Francisco or Seattle,” said Jack Burchard, who has played with two bands at Mills the venue, 134 S. Second Ave. “There are so many local musicians that are really terrific.” The Salmon Creek Coffee Co. is the brainchild and business of Melanie Mills, a 1998 graduate of Okanogan High School. “There are some days I lie down and think how the crap did I do all that,” she says of starting the business. “I actually love being busy, and I know I am doing a good thing. People love it.” Mill’s brewed coffee in Hawaii and Alaska, but her heart brought her home to Okanogan to be close to family. Mills, 33, attended Wenatchee Valley CollegeOmak before heading to Hawaii in late 1999. She earned an art degree in ceramics at Brigham Young UniversityHawaii. She worked her way up from supervisor to management within Starbucks from 2002 to 2007. “I just fell in love with coffee, I have really been passionate with coffee,” she said. “I sang in the music company all through high school. So, I had that passion, too.” She moved north from Hawaii to Alaska, where she was a top barista at the Mount McKinley National Park lodge, she said. After a brief stay with Starbucks in Kennewick, she returned home. “I kind of went all over the place,” she said. “Then I was pregnant and moved home to Okanogan. “

“ I bet there is no cooler place in San Francisco or Seattle. Jack Burchard

”

Her passion for the aroma of coffee mixed with music and art got her to thinking of creating such a place here. “I figured I might as well do what I loved,” she said. She wrote a business plan approved by the North-Central Washington Business Loan Fund. The Salmon Creek Coffee Co. opened Aug. 11 last year and continues to grow. “I didn’t think little ol’ me could put something together like that,” she said. “The perfect spot was available, On the Avenue. The building lends itself as a perfect hub for something like this. “It’s become a community spot for people to gather and show off their talents.” “If you asked me a year ago if Melanie could start a Salmon Creek Coffee business in Okanogan, I would have said impossible,” Burchard said. “Her hard work, good coffee and treats made it go. It’s really cool people support a local business. I just love the place. I’m impressed people support it and make it happen.” Mills employs four and is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Thursday nights are an exception, when regional musicians perform until 8 p.m. Burchard has played a Cajon, a wood box you sit on, and Djembe, an African drum, with two different bands at the venue. “What I play is not important. What is important is how music friendly they are,” Burchard said. “I bet there is no cooler place in San Francisco or Seattle. And they are really nice to everybody, that helps, too.” Lonnie and Theresa Good coordinate performers, with a different act performing on “Singer/Songwriters Showcase” night until June. “This showcase is similar to what we as singer and

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Al Camp/The Chronicle

Good4U performs Nov. 8 at The Salmon Creek Coffee Co., voted the best espresso or coffee business in south Okanogan County. songwriters experience back in Nashville,” Lonnie Good said. “There was no place to showcase songwriters. Nobody likes to play in bars, where everyone dances but does not listen to the music. “That is what makes us so different from other venues, people come to listen to the music.” He recently performed with Good4U that included Teresa “T” Good, Jeremy Behrent, Ralph Bangs and Bob “Bubba” Day. Some of the better known acts brought to Okanogan include Gideon’s Daughter and Hippies on Vacation. “It’s blown my mind the number of people we keep finding,” Good said. “We discover new songwriters all the time. “It’s crazy. I would never have dreamed it.” Mills carries all coffee blends from Blue Star Coffee Roasters in Twisp, which came in second in voting for the south. “We have a grinder, so we can grind coffee for people if they need it,” she said. “We offer all sorts of drinks. Pretty much what people are used to, we carry it.” The menu also includes sandwiches – “more like grab

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and go,” Mills said – and curry bowls from The Breadline Cafe

in Omak. “It was awesome that we

won,” Mills said. “I was really surprised. I am surprised by all of the support the community is giving us. There are times that are slow, but for the most part it’s above and beyond what I expected. “I am happy to provide something like this in Okanogan. It’s good to love your job, and I love my job.” The future will include what the community wants, and perhaps a few bigger bands. “It’s hard to say right now,” Mills said of the future. “I am really happy with what is happening now.” Mills lives with her 3-yearold daughter and fiance, Autumn Carroll, who recently bought an organic orchard. “They are the best kept secret, except it should not be a secret,” Good said. “Last year, we experienced a lot of standing room only. There is no cover charge, although for better-known acts there is a suggested donation. A tip jar often passed for area musicians. “People have been very generous with that,” Good said, noting posters, handbills at the business and Facebook postings get out the word about who plays next.

C4 •

News • The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012

www.omakchronicle.com

Prickly Pear earns accolades Year-old store is a winner in several ‘Best of’ categories By Dannie Oliveaux The Chronicle OMAK – Witnessing a dwindling local jewelry industry, two business owners came together to bring some life to the area with an idea called The Prickly Pear. “We felt there was a need and didn’t want Omak to die,” co-owner Debra Picard said. She and co-owner Shana Hammett’s efforts paid off, as The Prickly Pear was voted a multiple winner in the north area in The Chronicle’s “Best Of” competition for 2012 – just after the store celebrated its one-year anniversary. It took first as best business, first among gift shop/jewelry stores, and added seconds in the customer service and clothing/shoe store categories.

The store is a mixture of fine and fashion jewelry, consignment clothes and shoes, and other fashion accessories. Because Hammett owned her own consignment clothing store prior to working at Harrison’s, she is familiar with finding good quality used clothing. The store currently has 160 consignors who have clothes in the store. “It’s like access to 160 women’s closets,” Picard said. “We felt there was a need in the community to have nicer clothes, better labels and affordable prices,” Picard said. Picard believes part of the store’s success involves around the store’s large variety of item. “It was something that was really needed and our prices are really good,” Picard said. She said the store’s jewelry repair department is needed in the area. Picard and Hammett knew when the store doors opened they would have clients from

their days working at Harrison’s Jewelry. “People appreciate when they walk in the door, it may be a new business, but the same people,” Picard said. “So they feel that comfort level when they leave jewelry.” C.J. Harrison works in the store repairing, resizing and cleaning jewelry. “Having C.J. doing jewelry repair, we knew it was a need instead of a want,” Hammett said. Picard and Hammett both agree they enjoy what they do. “We get to see a lot of our old Harrison clients,” Hammett said. “It doesn’t feel like a job. We’re having fun in doing what we do.” “It doesn’t feel like working, it just feels like fun,” Picard said. The store also features jewelry created by local artist, along with a lady from Carlton who make winter hats. The store is located at 4 N. Main St.

Dannie Oliveaux/The Chronicle

Debra Picard, left, and Shana Hammett co-own The Prickly Pear, a jewelry store.

Twisp River Pub is a double winner Business is south county area’s top winery/brewery By Dee Camp The Chronicle TWISP – A business that rose from the ashes in its early years is a double winner in the winery/brewery category of The Chronicle’s “Best of” awards for south Okanogan County. “It’s nice to be recognized for all the hard work” that goes into operating a brewery and restaurant, Twisp River Pub/Methow Valley Brewing Co. owner Aaron Studen said. The pub took first place in balloting and the brewery took second. The business, 201 N. Methow Valley Highway, started in 1998 in a former creamery building across the street from the Methow Valley Inn, 234 E. Second Ave., but moved to its current location after that building burned in 2001. With hindsight, the fire was good for business, since the new location is more prominent, Studen, 40, said. “We do about four times the business,” he said. In the intervening years, the business has attracted both a local clientele and a steady crowd of drop-ins among tourists traveling over the North Cascades Highway and through the Methow Valley. Studen, who got his start as a home brewer, said he doesn’t keep track of where his customers live, but knows the summer months – when traffic is heaviest – bring tons of visitors. “We had nothing but good

Roger Harnack/The Chronicle

Twisp River Pub and Methow Valley Brewing Co. offers handcrafted beverages and house-made food. food here, and enjoyed some hard ciders and non-alcoholic brews, too,” wrote Laura S. of Bellingham on the yelp.com review site. “Every dish we ordered was delicious. It is a ‘must’ in Twisp.” What Laura S. and others find are dozens of hand-crafted beers, house-made pop, hard cider and scratch-made food. “We don’t cut corners on our raw materials,” Studen said. “We buy the best materials we can.” Beer is made in 150-gallon batches, with dozens of types made each year. “We have eight we try to keep all the time,” he said. Current offerings on tap are Cream Ale, Indian Pale Ale, Vienna Lager, Pilsner, Schwarzbier, Oktoberfest, Bock, Brown Ale, Porter and Oatmeal

Stout. “Talk about a generous beer sampler,” wrote yelp.com reviewer Hanna L. of Seattle. “We had five tastes, each of which must have been around five or six ounces. Not that I’m complaining! “The two winners were obvious: The Bock and the Porter. The Bock was beautifully sweet and fullbodied; the Porter smooth and sensuously viscous. You could get lost in its depths for hours. The other three beers were fine, but all lighter styles of their particular types.” Studen also makes several varieties of soda pop – root beer, ginger ale, raspberry and cream soda – using cane sugar instead of the high-fructose corn syrup found in most pop. The business just finished its

North Cascades National Bank Recognized for being THE BEST Financial Institution by Chronicle Readers! “Best Of” North Okanogan County Omak branch “Best Of” South Okanogan County Okanogan branch www.ncnbank.com 1-800-603-9342

annual fall cider squeeze. That juice is destined for hard cider. On the restaurant side, the pub makes all its soups and sauces from scratch, cooks its own beans instead of buying canned and makes other dishes in house, Studen said. Many incorporate products from the brewery side. The menu includes burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, daily specials and other items ranging from traditional pub grub such as buffalo wings and fish and chips to Thai peanut noodles, calamari, a curry bowl and fish tacos. Studen said he buys local meats and, in the summer, local produce. On the dessert menu are cheesecake, ice cream, chocolate mousse and other house-made goodies. The business also offers live entertainment inside and, when the weather’s nice, outdoors on the riverside patio. “I was and still am amazed

that such a great pub exists in the seemingly boring town of Twisp,” wrote Melissa T. of Berkeley, Calif., on yelp.com. “The place is spacious, has great service and generous seating, some in a nice outdoor area,

some overlooking the clean and well-laid-out bar, some near a music stage area.” After reviewing her meal, Melissa T. added, “I bought a few beers to go and left with some great memories of Twisp.”

Thanks for voting us “Best” car dealer!

Thank you for 37 wonderful years! “We care for people, not just teeth.”

Voted “Best of” 2012 for Dentistry for South Okanogan County

Dr. Denny Homer 37 years experience

108 2nd Ave., Okanogan • 509-422-3200 www.caringdentalcenter.com

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Dealership

Serving the greater Okanogan and beyond

Denise S. Krytenberg, D.V.M.

Member FDIC

Alpine Veterinary Clinic 741 Riverside Drive, Omak • 509-826-5882

The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012 •

www.omakchronicle.com

News • C5

Year-old photography business lauded Leeshy Lou offers portraits with varied backdrops By Al Camp The Chronicle OMAK – A love of taking photos of her son led Alysha Hayse to open her business, Leeshy Lou Photography last year. A year later, she has been voted as the best photography business in Hayse the north part of Okanogan Country. “I thought the award was great,” friend and client Tara Marchand said. She went to school with Hayse. “It’s a great accomplishment for her first year.” “I was completely blindsided, completely shocked,” Hayse said about the award. “I forgot it was this time of year. I am grateful. It makes all the hard work and late nights worth it.” Hayse, 22, is a self-taught photographer who soaks up new ideas and techniques while photographing children, seniors, families and couples — people portraiture – from her home at 804 Quassia St. “She’s full of ideas,”

Alysha Hayse/Leeshy Lou Photography

Ava McMillan of Oroville poses for a whimsical baby photo. Marchand said. “Everything is different, not all the same backgrounds. She’s really funky and makes a photo shoot fun. She has an idea for every person.” Hayse originally got a

camera to photograph landscapes and sporting events before doing her senior project on photography at Okanogan High School, from which she graduated in 2008. “That was the first time I

started thinking about composition and how the colors work,” she said. When she and her husband, Jon, had their son, Jackson, she started taking photos of him. “I wanted to take pictures of everything he did,” she said of her son, now going on 3. “Then I started doing photos for other people, because it makes me so happy to do these memories. So, that is how I started.” She enjoys photographing inside, where she can control lighting, although she also does outdoors sessions and wedding photos. “Lighting is much more important than location, I have found out,” she said. “Taking a good picture is a lot different than creating a good picture.” She likes working on the “just right” lighting, wardrobe and pose, which she says is a lot harder than being in the right place at the right time for a photo. “I am always learning,” Hayse said, noting she is in a statewide photography group for constructive criticism. What she’s learned can be seen in stylized shots, photos that have a story that go with it. “Instead of just making pictures, I like to plan out how the session will go,” she said. “I get balloons and some banners, that kind of thing. “I think the setting makes the picture more important than just taking portraits.”

Retired optometrist still the best By Cary Rosenbaum The Chronicle BREWSTER – Mystified by medicine while serving in the Vietnam War, Duane Rana switched his dream of becoming an engineer and went into optometry at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore. After earning his degree in 1976, Dr. Duane L. Rana, opened his eye-care business in Brewster. After working 35 years, he retired in September 2011. That didn’t cause The Chronicle’s readership to hold its “Best of” votes for him. Rana, 63, was selected as the best south country optometrist by readers in this year’s awards. Currently, Rana is in Hawaii, his daughter and house-sitter Alyssa Rana said. “He left his phone here and he and my mom just took off,” she said. While his primary office was in Brewster, he also had a big impact on the communities of Coulee Dam and Grand Coulee. “We were very lucky to have him,” said Judy Curtis, a 23year front desk employee for hospitals in the Coulee Dam area. “He was one of the best doctors we’ve ever had. He is very much a family man and I really appreciated that.” Rana specialized in glaucoma and cataracts, and over the last several years

She gets business help from her husband, who has started two businesses. The couple met in the 10th grade, where she found him interesting to talk to. “Jon has got the best sense of humor,” she said. “He makes me laugh. “He does anything I need him to do. He does all my photo props and helps with weddings and mini sessions.” She sees a future where she can have her own studio. “But I want to continue to take pictures of all my awesome clients,” she said. “That is by far my favorite part of doing all this, making friends with families and kids, taking pictures.

“Seeing the kids grow up and change; it’s a lot of fun, the best part.” “She did me when I was pregnant with my son and my daughter was there,” Marchand said. “And she photographed me after with me and my kids.” She also did a family portrait with her husband, Ryan Cate, and the their son and daughter. “We are about to shoot another portrait in a week,” Marchand said. Hayse business name came from her nickname – Leeshy (pronounced lee-she). “I wanted something catchy, something people will remember, but personal,” she said.

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Colville Tribal Museum *

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Community Cultural Center Thanks you for 20 years of support. For promoting arts & cultural since 1992. communityculturalcenter.org 411 S. Western Ave., Tonasket • 509-486-1328

Thank you to our loyal customers for voting us “Best Of” Contractor 2012 in south county

PLUMBING INC

Pete Pe terson

869 2nd Ave. S., Okanogan • 509-422-5035 Lic. #PETEPP*018P7

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Alyssa Rana

Duane L. Rana, second from right, has retired and now spends time hiking. expanded his business to accept patients which spoke Spanish as their first language. “Being in Brewster, one of his goals was to provide good eye care for the Hispanic population here as well,” Rana, 34, said of her father. “He had a couple girls working for him that helped translate, which seemed to go very well.” Darlene Morava, a former patient, gave positive

Thank You For Voting CommunityNet “BEST OF” 4 Years in a Row! info@communitynet.org

testimony. “He was a good doctor and everybody liked him,” she said. Rana has been able to spend time with his two grandchildren in Wenatchee and is also an avid hiker. But he still misses the atmosphere of work, his daughter said. “His big thing about retiring is that he misses the patients,” she said. “Sometimes he’ll run into

them and they’ll say they miss him. He really enjoyed his profession.” It was a good shot in the dark for the man who moved up from Los Angeles. “They were really looking for a small town country life place to start a business and raise a family,” Rana said. “They found that in Brewster. He and my mom would say it was the best move ever.”

Tuesday-Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

We wish to thank all who voted us Best of Bar/Tavern — Kane, Rhonda, Justin, DJ and Danielle "!

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It is an honor and a privilege to serve you!

Conconully Chamber & Conconully Chamber Businesses

Thank you

would like to thank all who voted us Best of Fishing & Hunting Camping Location ATV/Snowmobile/Hiking/Trails

for your continued confidence and support.

Voted “Best of ” Dentistry North Okanogan County 826-4050 • 1-800-870-4057 • www.grillodds.com 739 Haussler Road, Omak

Conconully Chamber of Commerce

509-826-9050 www.conconully.com

C6 •

News • The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012

www.omakchronicle.com

Hospital named the best Three Rivers earns top spot among medical facilities By Dee Camp The Chronicle BREWSTER – Three Rivers Hospital leaders are working to re-establish a good relationship and credibility with the public. The effort seems to be paying off. The hospital was named best medical facility for the south county by Chronicle readers in the annual “Best of” awards. CEO Bud Hufnagel said the facility at 507 Hospital Way strives to provide good health care and consistent service. “Our goal is to make a great of progress on doing that, on being aggressive and on doing the right things,” he said. Since becoming the hospital’s top administrator in September 2011, Hufnagel said he’s worked to change the hospital’s culture “so you don’t have to think about whether the quality of care is the best possible, it just automatically is.” Employees – from doctors and nurses to janitorial and kitchen workers — are making a lot of progress. The public, critical-access hospital serves south Okanogan County and north Douglas County, from Mazama

to Monse and Mansfield. “Continuing a 60-year tradition, our goal is to be the provider of choice for all residents and visitors,” hospital officials said. A key component of the hospital’s continued success is a health and wellness program, Hufnagel said. “Hospitals aren’t just hospitals any more,” he said. “We take care of the patient in a more global sense. It’s a lot more than an attitudinal thing.” That attitude is part of the federal Affordable Care Act, which appears to be on the road to full implementation now that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled on a challenge to it and President Barack Obama has been re-elected, Hufnagel said. The wellness program includes an effort to educate people that the emergency room is for emergencies and non-emergencies need to be treated by care providers in a clinic setting. Three Rivers is participating in a state hospital association program to provide and manage patient care and do it in a cost-effective manner. The hospital works with public health and other providers. Another facet of the hospital’s mission is providing care for the two fastestgrowing populations it serves – those ages 18-27 and those 65

Three Rivers Hospital

The Three Rivers staff enacts an emergency room ‘incident’ with employee Marcos Ruiz as the ‘patient.’ and older. “A majority of our patients fall into one of those,” he said. “We have a large maternity

volume.” Its biggest program is orthopedics and orthopedic surgery.

Ray builds quality

Readers cite Molson By Dannie Oliveaux The Chronicle MOLSON – Early 20th Century displays and artifacts displays make the Molson Museum complex a special place. Residents have clearly taken notice, which is apparent as The Chronicle’s readership named the site a winner in its annual “Best of” competition as Top Museum in North Okanogan County. The museum complex “has something for everyone,” Director Mary Louise Loe said. The complex includes three sites — Molson School, Old Molson and Molson Community Church. It is maintained and operated by the Molson Museum Association, which operates under the Okanogan County Historical Association. About 5,000 people visit the Molson area each year, Loe said. The museum complex is open about seven months a year — from Labor Day to Memorial Day, she said. The old brick school building, which was built in 1914, has four floor displays that include a restored classroom, the original school library with the original books, and displays of hand tools, old horse and buggies, household artifacts, a pioneer post office, fixtures, and photographs from the past. It also features displays set

The Farm Shed

Tunk Creek contractor named best by readers

up for a dentist office and barbershop. The school closed in 1969 and was purchased by the Molson Grange in the 1970s. A group of volunteers collected and organized displays for the museum, which opened in 1982. Old Molson, 539 Molson Road, is site of the unincorporated town before it was moved. It includes old farm equipment and original town buildings — an assay office, bank and newspaper among them. The church was added to the complex several years ago. Loe has been director of the museum since its opening day. “I remember we had to do a lot of work on the (school) building,” Loe said. “We only opened the first floor originally, then the remainder of the building as we fixed the building.” Inside the museum is a tearoom that provides refreshments and souvenirs in an old-fashion setting. Wheelchair assessable bathrooms are available. The basement gymnasium, which still has the original basketball goals and backboard, is home to an array of old artifacts. The school museum is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and is located cross the Molson Grange Hall on Molson Road. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Labor Day to Memorial Day.

Ag Tech 249A Rodeo Trail, Okanogan 509-422-1600

521 2nd Ave. South, Okanogan 509-422-9722

Laurie & Monte Andrews would like to thank everyone that voted their businesses BEST OF!

By Al Camp The Chronicle TUNK CREEK – Mike Ray can build most anything, but what he really likes to do is build homes. Ray’s homes and personality jetted him to first place for contractor in the north of Okanogan Country in the “Best Of” awards. “I did not know anything about it (the contest) until Dorothy came home with it,” Ray said. “It was kind of a surprise to me. “He was confused,” partner Dorothy Eddy said after finding the award on their doorstep. “He said, ‘Who did that?’ ” Ray, 62, operates Mike Ray Construction and has built homes — including log homes and specialty houses — from Tunk Valley to Aeneas Valley, from Pine Creek to Tonasket. “As a general contractor, I build,” he said. “In this country over here, you do whatever you happen to build. I like building houses the most. It has slowed down a little bit the last couple years.” Ray says building homes may have slackened in step with a weak economy, but interest rates are so low that now is a great time to purchase a house. “I don’t remember interest rate being this low,” he said. “It’s not going to be any cheaper.”

Callaway & DeTro PLLC Mike Ray

Mike Ray built this home and garage in Tunk Valley. Ray started his business in 1975 or “somewhere around there,” he said. “I’ve been working for myself ever since then.” A product of Auburn High School (1969), he moved to Tunk Valley in 1988. “There was no work back then, very little,” he said. “Then it started picking up.” After working for several area contractors, he decided to go into business for himself. He likes to build a house from the ground up, from foundation to framing, to setting windows, putting in siding, roofing and the insides. “It’s always something different all the time,” Ray said, who disdains the idea of being a union contractor doing the same work over and over. “I hate doing the same thing day after day after day.” When he finishes, the new owner has a “turn-key” home,

with everything done. “One thing I can say, I built it myself, nobody else did it for me,” he said, mocking a President Barack Obama saying. He’s especially proud of a 4,000-square foot log home he built for a Tibetan monk along Tunk Creek and log homes in the Aeneas Valley. Although he’s done work in the Methow Valley, he prefers working the region north of Riverside because it’s a long way to drive to the bustling nearby valley. “I just know he does quality work,” Eddy said. “We are living in one of the houses he’s built. It’s absolutely, very comfortable. It’s very warm.” He employs a couple people, preferring to keep his operation small. “I don’t like to get too big,” he said. “I want to keep control, do one job at a time.”

Thank you to everyone who voted our office “Best Of” for 2012. Your vote of confidence means a lot to all of us! Law Office of Callaway & DeTro PLLC 700-A Okoma Drive • Omak 509-826-6316

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The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012 •

www.omakchronicle.com

News • C7

Lodge, new hotel receive recognition Methow Valley businesses offer comfortable lodging By Dee Camp The Chronicle TWISP – A longtime Methow Valley lodging facility and a hotel that’s been open just a few months were named the best accommodations for the south county area. Sun Mountain Lodge, a valley fixture for 44 years, was named the top accommodation by readers in The Chronicle’s annual “Best of” awards. Twisp River Suites, open for five months, was the runner-up. “It’s absolutely fantastic,” Sun Mountain Manager Brian Carlton said. “It means a lot to us” to be recognized by local residents. Sun Mountain, 604 Patterson Lake Road, has received plenty of accolades from national and international organizations, including two decades worth of Four Diamond Awards from AAA for its restaurant and a certificate of recommendation from Conde Nast, which publishes such magazines as The New Yorker, Gourmet and Conde Nast Traveler. “We do all we can to be local,” Charlton, 64, said. When the lodge was remodeled and expanded in 1988-89, with reopening in 1990, it relied on local metal work, furniture and rock work craftsmen. It serves locally produced food, especially in the summer when fresh produce is added to local meats. Methow Valley resident Jack Barron started building Sun Mountain Lodge in 1965 and opened it in 1968 atop a 3,000-foot mountain with a panoramic view of mountains, forests and valleys. The original facility included a dining room, lounge, front desk, public meeting rooms, pool, hot tub and 50 guest rooms in two buildings. Cabins on the valley floor, and later moved to Patterson Lake, completed the facility. In 1987, the Haub brothers of Germany purchased the lodge and ranch with the cabins, then renovated it. There are 112 rooms spread out among the cabins, main lodge building, and Robinson and Gardner buildings, Charlton said. Amenities range from pools and hot tubs to a restaurant, 5,000-bottle wine cellar, spa, equestrian facilities, sleigh rides, conference and meeting rooms, fishing, skiing and hiking trails, and boat rentals. The lodge can accommodate special events such as weddings, and has a culinary apprenticeship program. Guests won’t find TV sets in their rooms, but will find wireless Internet. “We’re a quiet, get-out-anddo-something resort,” Charlton said. “It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s heaven.”

“ We’re a quiet, get-out-and-dosomething resort. Manager Brian Charlton

” Free day use of many amenities is offered, Charlton said. “It is just amazing,” wrote “villdre” of London, England, on the tripadviser.com website. “The ultimate getaway from people and traffic of big cities. “Luxury in nature,” wrote another tripadvisor.com reviewer using the name “caralyzer.” “My room had no TV, just wonderful music playing in the room as I entered. Leave your technology at home and just take in the beauty and joy of nature. Super all-season, resort-like property — worth the trek.” The lodge’s staff varies, but numbers 240-250 during the summer season, said Charlton, who has worked at the lodge for 24 years. Not far away, on the valley floor in neighboring downtown Twisp, is the runner-up in the “Best of” south county accommodations category. Twisp River Suites, 140 W. Twisp Ave., opened June 22 and had a very successful summer, owner Joe Marver said. The award “just kind of blew me away. I was floored,” he said. Marver, who declined to give his age, said he broke ground July 26, 2011. His 13room hotel opened less than 11 months later. He’s new to the lodging business, but not new to the business world. Almost 30 years ago, he started a seasonal Halloween store in the Bay Area. That business grew into a chain of 300 Spirit Halloween Superstores, which was eventually bought out. He still does some work for the company. Meanwhile, Marver visited the Methow Valley frequently. He noticed two vacant lots next door to the Twisp River Pub were for sale, and thought the riverside location would be great for a hotel. The hotel, which has earned a five-star rating on the www.tripadvisor.com website, offers eight suites overlooking the Twisp River and five smaller, standard rooms with a mountain view. All offer memory foam mattresses, and the suites feature decks, fireplaces and kitchens. An entertainment area offers a fire pit, lounging area and kitchen for larger groups. Live music – mostly jazz, bluegrass and country — is

Don Portman

Sun Mountain Lodge, a valley fixture for 44 years, is surrounded by snow-capped peaks when winter sets in.

Thank you for voting Joey’s Bark & Bath #1 in Pet Services in North County for 2012! Where pets go home happy!

Joey’s Bark & Bath 121 S. Main St., Omak 509-826-6540

Twisp River Suites

Twisp River Suites is a newcomer to the Methow Valley. offered to guests and the public Wednesdays and Fridays, with dinner from 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays and a happy hour from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays. Marver said he plans to expand dinner offerings for guests in the coming months. They already get breakfast. “Joe takes pride in what he has built and it shows,” wrote Barbara H. of Vancouver, B.C., on tripadvisor.com. “He is excited to show you all the

features he has incorporated into his inn and he has thought of everything you might need.” “This is by far the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in,” wrote “thixson” of Brooklyn, N.Y. “It is a very comfortable size, actually bigger than my New York apartment. “Great kitchen with everything you might need. Nice layout, our room had a screened in private porch with river views.”

The Salmon Creek Coffee Co.

Thanks You!

Voted

“Best Of” Optometrist 2012 North Okanogan Country Ugo Bartell, Omak Clinic Thank you to all of the patients and community members who voted for me. I am honored by your vote of confidence in my work.

Omak Clinic 916 Koala, Omak Optical Outfitters: 826-7919 For eye exams: 826-1800

I want to thank all my customers and our fantastic community for all their support and for voting us “Best Coffee/Espresso” in South Okanogan Country (two years in a row!) and “Best Customer Service” in South Okanogan County (honorable mention). I would also like to thank all of these amazing people: • My staff • My family • Blue Star Coffee Roasters

• Good Studios • The Breadline Café • Kincaid Creek Bakery • Dan Brown

• Okanogan art students • Our local artists

And a HUGE THANK YOU to all the people in the community who see the benefit to having a quality coffee shop that supports local roasters, local bakers, local restaurants, local artists, and a great atmosphere for anyone to sit and enjoy the quality of life and the creativity that the Okanogan brings.

134 S. 2nd Ave., Okanogan 509-826-1533

Coulee Dam Federal Credit Union sends a big THANK YOU to everyone who voted for us in the “Best Of” contest. We appreciate your support and want you to know that we consider it a great privilege to serve our community! Omak Branch “Best Of” North Okanogan

Grand Coulee Branch Honorable Mention South Okanogan

C8 •

News • The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012

www.omakchronicle.com

Judgeship won’t change partnership Smith & Derting voted Best Law Office in south By Cary Rosenbaum The Chronicle OKANOGAN – Heidi Smith and Bess Derting have an interesting partnership as area attorneys. That partnership doesn’t look to be going anywhere with the recent election of Smith to Okanogan County District Court Judge Position No. 2. “It would be unusual for our private practice to conflict with my matters in District Court,” Smith said. The law firm of Smith & Derting, PLLC, won The Chronicle’s “Best of” for South Okanogan County law office for the second year in a row. “It’s wonderful,” Derting said of the award. “We have some really great clients. We’re able to do the type of work we

like, and we really appreciate being recognized for that.” That work includes real estate, small business, land use, property litigation and titles, Smith said. “Between us, we’ve done a lot of business,” she said, noting the firm does not practice criminal defense. Both graduated from Gonzaga University about four years apart. Derting is 33 and Smith is 37. The two can’t practice in the same building because they talk too much, Derting joked. And that’s one of the things that has made their partnership work. It’s been important for the firm to be prompt and efficient, Derting said. “We like quick turn-arounds and staying in close contact with the clients, and they seem to appreciate that, as well,” she said. Since 2009, it’s been solely Smith and Derting, after Terri Karro retired. They used to operate an

Cary Rosenbaum/The Chronicle

Heidi Smith,37, and Bess Derting, 33, form Okanogan law office Smith & Derting, PLLC. office in Winthrop, which has been closed with Smith’s recent election to the bench.

Smith insists her new position won’t have too much effect on the partnership, as it

is only part time. “And, we do meet frequently to check on our cases,” she

said. “We have lots of communication.” Derting grew up in Okanogan, and Smith went to school in Tonasket, which gives the firm a local connection to its clients, Derting said. Both have husbands and children, and have been able to cover for each other when situations occur. Their office at 105 N. Second Ave. was opened in January. “We’ve remodeled the building,” Derting said. “I work out of here, and (Heidi’s) mainly at the courthouse.” One thing that makes working in the county special for the two is the amount of support from family and friends, Derting said. For the foreseeable future, Smith & Derting will maintain its law office. “Heidi and I will maintain our partnership for as long as she’s able to continue doing some private work,” Derting said.

Gunn shooting for positive reputation “

Brewster alumnus one of youngest attorneys in area

If someone can’t afford to do this, I’m always looking at other avenues to fit their budget.

By Cary Rosenbaum The Chronicle OMAK – Ryan Gunn may be relatively new in town, but the 32-year-old lawyer is getting a reputation already. The former Brewster graduate and University of Washington alumnus was voted best attorney in The Chronicle’s “Best of” 2012 Awards for North Okanogan County. “I was very surprised,” he said. “I’ve only been back here a year-and-a-half.” Gunn purchased and is in the process of transforming the former R. John Sloan Jr. Law Offices building at 7 N. Main St. “It’s conveniently located in downtown,” he said. “I have a friendly staff. I’m really young and motivated and eager. We’re very efficient. I do what’s best for the client.” It already feels like home, Gunn said. “Here, I know everybody, all the attorneys,” he said. “Even in Wenatchee, I know quite a bit of attorneys. I like to be

Attorney Ryan W. Gunn

”

Cary Rosenbaum/The Chronicle

Ryan Gunn, 32, stands outside of his 7 N. Main St. law office in downtown Omak. able to actually establish a working relationship with other attorneys. So, I enjoy that.” Affordable rates are one of the law firms goals, Gunn said. “If someone can’t afford to do this, I’m always looking at other avenues to fit their budget,” he said. “I really feel

like people really like that.” Another goal is to eventually expand and hire an additional attorney, Gunn said. Gunn formerly worked in a medical malpractice law firm in Seattle, and said his office in Omak is more of a general practice.

For criminal work, he does misdemeanors and felonies. On the civil side, he does family law, divorces and probate. “I have a general civil litigation practice,” Gunn said. “There’s also things I do that are off the wall.” Construction law, personal

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Caso’s Country Foods 2406 Elmway • Okanogan • 509-422-5161

We would like to thank all of our wonderful customers over the years, we appreciate your patronage. Stop by or call us today!

Council. As al descendant, tribal law is important to him, he said. “I am going to take the tribal bar this winter,” Gunn said. “I think I can help the tribal community out.” Overall, the young lawyer is excited to be home, and to help get his clients the best possible results. “I want to develop a good reputation in the community for my work,” he said. Gunn said he isn’t just limited to this community — he will travel to Ferry, Chelan, Grant and Lincoln counties, as well.

Thank you for voting Ponytails Best Beauty Salon! 12 North Main Street • Omak 509-422-9790

Kevin Fletcher, owner

509-826-5004 • 2 East Bartlett, Omak

Thank You Thank you for voting Dave’s Gun & Pawn Best of 2012!s We appreciate your business! 501 S. Whitcomb Tonasket 509-486-2172

injury, state planning, power of attorney health care directives and real estate were also an area he’s delved into before, he said. A big part of his practice is family law, Gunn said. “Over a third of our cases are family,” he said. “We don’t just do divorces, we do modification issues of parenting plans, child custody and non-parental custody.” Some things he doesn’t do are bankruptcy, disability, immigration and employment law, he said. Gunn’s great-grandfather Peter Gunn was on the first Colville Tribal Business

We enjoy caring for you! Thank you for voting us “Best of” Medical Facility of 2012. Omak Clinic

112 N. Main • Riverside 509-826-0544

916 Koala Drive, Omak 509-826-1800 • 800-591-2765

The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012 •

www.omakchronicle.com

News • C9

Fair shines in south Grounds and September event are winners By Dee Camp The Chronicle OKANOGAN – The Okanogan County Fairgrounds and fair shine above all others in the south county area. They were recognized by The Chronicle’s readers as the best entertainment venue and best community festival/event, respectively, in the annual “Best of” awards. “It’s a great honor,” the fair’s Clerk Loretta Houston said. “It’s kind of neat that we got that,” Okanogan County Parks and Recreation Board member Maurice Goodall said. “We’re trying to change the way people look at the fairgrounds. We’re trying to make it userfriendly and positive.” Volunteers have worked many long hours to maintain and improve the fairgrounds, and also to stage the annual fair on the weekend after Labor Day. “It’s one of the biggest entertainment things that people can go to” Houston said, adding its also affordable for families. The 62-acre fairgrounds, 175 Rodeo Trail Road, “is the ideal setting for reunions, picnics, company parties, wedding receptions, banquets and indoor or outdoor activities,” the fair’s website said. Goodall said fair officials are working hard to develop the grounds, raise money and encourage community members to offer suggestions and help the fairgrounds. This year’s ribbon winners received questionnaires with their premium checks asking for opinions about the fair experience. Other people with suggestions can contact the fairgrounds. Goodall said it’s important to market the grounds, keep them clean and upgrade amenities as funding allows. “For us to stay alive down here, we need to have functions down here,” he said. “We want to make this fairgrounds a go.” Centerpiece of the grounds

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Jockeys vie for position during horseracing events at the 2012 Okanogan County Fair.

“ We’re trying to change the way people look at the fairgrounds. Maurice Goodall, recreation board member

” is the Agriplex, a 24,000square-foot display area with a 24-foot ceiling, concrete floor and radiant heat. It’s large enough to drive a tractortrailer through, turn around without going into reverse and drive out again. At the building’s north end is the Annex, which features 3,338 square feet of carpeted meeting area, restrooms and a U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified kitchen, which can be used to process foods for resale. The Annex can accommodate 300 people at a sit-down meal or seminar. The Agriplex complex has been the site of weddings, conventions, memorial services

and numerous fundraisers. Recent events include the Loup Loup Ski Education Foundation’s A Taste of Two Valleys fundraiser and Okanogan-Omak Rotary Club’s Wine and Cheese gala. Rotarian Debi Clark praised the venue and Goodall’s assistance. The club used both the Agriplex and the Annex, and found it a wonderful place to accommodate the 500 or so people who attended the club’s fundraiser. North Cascades Athletic Club sets up portable courts in the Agriplex each winter for tennis players. Community members also find other areas of the fairgrounds popular for their

By Dannie Oliveaux The Chronicle CURLEW – For an unincorporated community that may not compete with the likes of Omak and Tonasket in population, the town of Curlew banded together and voted their businesses into prominence in The Chronicle’s 2012 “Best Of” awards. The Ferry County town helped vote the Curlew Medical Center, Curlew Fire Department, and Eagle Cliff Grange No. 712 into runner-up finishes against much larger competitors. Curlew Medical Center The Curlew Medical Center, a part of the Ferry County Hospital District, was selected runner-up for best medical facility. The facility is a primary care clinic staffed by experienced workers, including a board certified family practice physician, one physician assistant and other support staff. Gary Robertson, chief executive officer for the hospital district, praised the work of Dr. Karen Shaaf. “Karen is very patient oriented,” Robertson said. “She treats her patients as patients, but also as a friend. She lives

“ They’re dedicated to their patients and that’s a major contribution why the clinic is such a good clinic. CEO Gary Robertson

groups, Houston said. Recent events include Washington State Sheriff’s Posse convention, state HOG Rally for Harley-Davidson owners, Society for Creative Anachronism meeting and a wildfire camp. Berg Brothers Pavilion, used as the pig barn and auction ring during the fair, has been used in the off season by everyone from square dancers to wedding parties. During the winter, people can rent covered parking spots in the pavilion for their recreational vehicles and boats. The grounds also offer grassy areas, several other buildings, horse stalls and riding areas and an RV park. The RV area, open from mid-April through midOctober, offers 64 full hookups plus 44 electric/water hookups and tent areas. During the fair, county residents reunite with each other, sample a variety of food, view competitions and watch entertainment. Fair officials hope to reinstate the rodeo, which was replaced in 2012 by a tractor pull, Houston said.

Thank you to our clients, and those who voted for us to be “Best Of”. We are proud to work in such a wonderful community.

Best Of Law Practice South Okanogan

Smith & Derting, PLLC 112 N. Second Ave., Okanogan P.O. Box 845, Okanogan 509-422-1601

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” and raised her family here and is very involved in the community.” Shaaf and her staff provided a stable medical force in Curlew, Robertson said. “They’re dedicated to their patients and that’s a major contribution why the clinic is such a good clinic,” Robertson said. The medical center is at 9 Kettle River Road. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 509-779-4130 for more information. Curlew Fire Department The Curlew Fire Department, also known as the Ferry/Okanogan Fire Protection District No. 14, has 40 volunteers, which help serve the surrounding areas in northeast Okanogan County and northwest Ferry County. The main station in Curlew is a four-bay facility, with satellite stations in Toroda,

Malo and Danville. John Foster Fanning, who has been fire chief since 2002, said there are two words for his department “dedicated volunteers.” “They’re dedicated to showing up for training,” Fanning said. “They go through some rigorous training as a firefighter.” Another reason the department is popular is because the district hasn’t increase taxes to acquire equipment and their new station, which was built in 2005, Fanning said. Emergency Medical Service Chief Bonnie Goss agreed volunteers make the fire department successful. “It’s the people who volunteer. They are outstanding and dedicated to the fire department,” Goss said. “We have had great support from our commissioners who fully support us. And the community has been very

supportive, also.” Goss, who has been a part of the fire department for about 20 years, said about 20 of the volunteer firefighters have been crossed-trained as emergency medical technicians. Eagle Cliff Grange No. 712 Lecturer Kathy Alexander said the reason the grange is popular in the community is because of its activities in bringing people together. More than 40 people are members, and guests are always welcome to join. “We host an annual Christmas party and go to great links to bring the community together and kick off the holiday season off,” Alexander said. She said the grange also hosts a banquet of Kinross Gold Corp. employees and supplies them with homemade soups and pies. Because some grange members are elderly, Alexander said they hold some of their meeting as assisted living facilities so the member can feel involved. Alexander said the grange donates to the local food bank, has a booth at the county fair, and began a junior grange program this year. “We would (also) like to do bingo here,” he said. Eagle Cliff Grange, located on Customs Road, meets at 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month.

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Thank you, Okanogan County residents, for voting us “Best of” Honorable Mention in Electronic/Internet Services

Curlew places three in ‘Best of’ Unincorporated town has plenty to brag about

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Thank you for voting Heather’s Dog Grooming #1 in Pet Services for South County 2012! Book now for the holidays! Gift Certificates Available 1068 2nd Ave., Okanogan 509-826-5541

Vern’s Automotive LLC Appreciates the unexpected honor of “Best of” in automotive services for south county. We appreciate your business. Thank you! 130 2nd Ave. N., Okanogan 509-826-0515

C10 •

News • The Chronicle • Nov. 21, 2012

www.omakchronicle.com

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‘08 Summit 600 Adrenaline

Great running sled. 144” track.

Dump bed, power steering, 4x4. Great for around the farm!

146” track, 800 powertek engine. Runs great!

154” track, 600 ETEC, vent kit, electric start, reverse.

144” track, 600 SOI engine, electric start, reverse.

Xtreme Price

1,995

4,995

5,495

5,295

4,595

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1930 2nd Ave., Okanogan • 509-826-5771 Negotiable $150 documentary fee may be added to price. Vin #’s available upon request, prices plus tax and license fees.

Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo

Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna • Can-Am • Ski-Doo • Husqvarna