Foothills Magazine - Nov-Dec 2015

WENATCHEE ◆ LEAVENWORTH ◆ CHELAN ◆ AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

OOTHILLS November-December 2015

12 DAYS FOR CHRISTMAS Out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas

Inside

Saddle Up

Horses that give, need love

Standing Date Lots of fun in this run

EDITOR’S LETTER

Make time this holiday season T

he calendar moves quickly this time of year. You flip the page from October to November and before you know it ... Happy New Year!

Time is precious, especially as the days get shorter and shorter and shorter ...

Some commitments and obligations we can’t or shouldn’t avoid — work, trips to the gym, church, volunteer work, balancing the checkbook, visiting the in-laws for Thanksgiving. OK, maybe that last one is avoidable if you come up with that perfect excuse. Infected papercut? Sick hamster?

Seriously, some things are avoidable. Admit it. Many of us spend too much time Facebooking, Pinteresting, Tweeting, Instagramming, texting and watching TV. Cut back on those activities and you just might find extra time to spend with your family and closest friends.

If you want to guarantee some quality time for friends and family, then check out Rachel Hansen’s story in this issue that suggests giving experiences rather than traditional gifts is the way to go this Christmas. Instead of buying your brother another Seahawks jersey to add to his collection, hook him up with a pair of tickets to Winterfest Alefest in Manson or the Timbrrr! Music Fest in Leavenworth. He might return the gesture and invite you to tag along.

If you’re looking for a chuckle or four, be sure to read Mike Irwin’s Thanksgiving-inspired Fast 5 starting on Page 6. Mike writes about the things he’s most thankful for this season. Mike’s not like you and I. He thinks outside the box — way outside the box — and is always worth a read.

This issue wraps up the fifth full year that Foothills has been publishing. I want to thank all the talented writers, photographers and page designers who have contributed to Foothills. I also appreciate all the advertisers who have made this endeavor possible. And I want to thank you, the reader, for making it all worthwhile.

See you in 2016.

Marco Martinez, editor

Follow us 2

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

facebook.com/Foothills.Magazine

@Foothillsmag

OOTHILLS A BIďšşMONTHLY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ABOUT NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

Publisher Rufus Woods rwoods@wenatcheeworld.com Managing editor Cal FitzSimmons (509) 665-1176 fitzsimmons@wenatcheeworld.com Editor Marco Martinez (509) 664-7149 martinez@wenatcheeworld.com

"On the darkest of nights the men from Lucerne were glad the ladies of Point Lovely left the light on for them."

General Manager, advertising and sales Joe Pitt (509) 664-7143 pitt@wenatcheeworld.com Design Nancy Phillips, Justin Umberson Staff writers Mike Irwin, Dee Riggs, Rick Steigmeyer

Lake Chelan Leavenworth, www.hardrow.com Lake&Chelan, www.hardrow.com

Staff photographers Mike Bonnicksen, Don Seabrook Contributing editor Russ Hemphill Proofreader Joanne Saliby

Foothills Magazine is published bi-monthly

by World Publishing, 14 N. Mission St., Wenatchee, WA, 98801.

Subscriptions: $14.99 annually Send check or money order to: Foothills, Subscriptions 14 N. Mission St., Wenatchee, WA, 98801 or email foothills@wenatcheeworld.com Copyright 2015 with all rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

On the cover: iStock photo/Lisa Thornberg

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

3

Contents

4

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

s

6 8 12 18 24 32 Town on the Run 40 46 54 56 Fast Five

Mike Irwin is thankful

Triple Threat

Steven Sears has more time to play

Goin’ with the Flow River home is modern, compact

DINE IN!

230 Grant Road, East Wenatchee

ORDER OUT!

Join Us For Your Favorite Treats!

✔ Daily Lunch Specials & Combos ✔ Daily Dinner Specials & Combos ✔ Two 7-Course Family Meals (Min. 2!) ✔ Hot & Spicy

✔ Vegetarian

Closed Mondays!

(509)884-1510

Menu in Phone Books & GoldenEastWenatchee.com!

All Dressed Up A dish to add to your Thanksgiving spread

Horses and Hearts Horses that give, need help

Christmas is Coming

Salon & Spa 509.393.5516 • 537 Orondo Ave. • Wenatchee, WA • 98801

Gift ideas that aren’t just “stuff ”

Weekly run is a big hit for Run Wenatchee

French Connection Cairdeas Winery creates Rhonestyle wines

Vine Views

Barb Robertson dishes on four new faves

Big Night

Wenatchee Wine & Food Fest draws a crowd

“DON’T MAKE A MOVE WITHOUT ME.”

What Real Estate Need’s Can I Help You With?

Cell: 509-679-4625 Pam@Windermere.com • www.WenatcheeValleyProperty.com

Windermere Real Estate/NCW

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

5

FAST FIVE

1

Perfect Plateau

Thanks to all those ancient fissures that leaked layer upon layer of oozing basalt to form the Waterville Plateau. Sure, it’s a good spot to grow wheat, but lets not ignore its therapeutic value: big open sky, few winter inversions and an abundance of soothing, horizontal lines — yeah, like a rolling sea frozen in time. Plus, islets of trees and weather-worn homesteads dot the horizon just to make things interesting. Residents are nice, too.

Stop roadside to take a photo and undoubtedly the next farm truck will slow down so the driver can query: “Everything OK?” You betcha.

2

Movie Magic

Thanks to Wenatchee’s Sun Basin Theatres for improving — almost immeasurably — the movie-going experience for us local film lovers. Forget megascreen IMAX and those 3D gottawear-glasses screenings; the most revolutionary tech advancements at the movies (aside from frozen Junior Mints) have been digital projection and Dolby surround sound. The eyepopping sharpness and ear-popping clarity ease the pain of the (ack!) $11 ticket price. Movie heaven, of course, would also include $2 popcorn for us skinflints.

6

Let’s give t

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

3

Tacos on Wheels

Thanks to the local Mexican families (Cruz, Morelia, Quacida and others) whose food trucks concoct a neverending supply of $1.25 tacos and big-honkin’ burritos. Not only does downtown Wenatchee have a truck parked every few blocks, but you can sometimes find them serving up tortas and quesadillas along backroads and in far-flung orchards. Truth is, these mobile kitchens have cooked up a small foodie subculture whose devotees argue the merits of, say, radishes on roasted tongue tacos or if goat meat should be chunked or shredded. ¡Qué bueno!

e thanks

BY MIKE IRWIN

THANKSGIVING EDITION

4

5

Airborne at Pangborn

Thanks to Pangborn Memorial Airport, mostly for nearly nonexistent security lines, free shortterm parking and its mouth-watering airport code: EAT. Oh, and for ticket-counter folks you get to know by their first names. And the flight attendants who have to remind you to duck as you enter the plane. And the completely unexpected homemade pies (sour cream pear, heck yeah) at the Cafe at the Airport. And let’s not forget the facility is named after barnstormer Clyde Pangborn, who in 1931 flew nonstop across the Pacific but crash-landed about 4 miles northwest. We thank you, too.

Parks Galore

Thanks for Columbia River banks dotted with bucolic parks perfect for pit stops — leg stretching, dog walking, family picnicking, Frisbee throwing, bathroom, um, contributing. Bureaucracies such as PUDs and state agencies don’t normally deal in such peace and harmony, but the suckers sure came through with Confluence and Lincoln Rock state parks, along with Hydro Park, Beebe, Entiat, Chelan Falls and Walla Walla Point parks. Our favorite? Daroga, mostly for its tree-lined walks and placid lagoon. A fairy-tale spot to relax.

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

7

WHEELS OF WONDER

STORY BY SHARON ALTARAS PHOTOS BY MIKE BONNICKSEN

No ‘trailer queens’ in this group Steven Sears’ hot rods are all drivers

8

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

F

all leaves on the ground and a chill in the air used to mean Steven Sears was deep into his first semester teaching special education students at Wenatchee High School.

The 18-year veteran of caseloads, counseling and crisis management retired in June.

Most days at 5:30 a.m. he’d walk the couple blocks from his home on Gellatly Avenue to catch the sunrise and fill out paperwork, then walk back at the end of the day as the sky began to darken.

Now the lifelong Wenatchee resident is devoting more time to another love — fast cars — three of which are parked at his house, jockeying for a

position in the small garage he built two years ago.

All are all Fords, and they are an interesting mix.

A 1991 “fox body” Mustang GT that Sears bought in 2001 from a dealer has a five-liter, 302 engine with an aftermarket cam shaft and custom chip, plus a five-speed transmission.

“This was my idea of a family car,” says Sears, who is divorced with two grown sons.

The car he’s dubbed “Bad Pony,” also has a custom paint job and has been lowered two inches. It has many racing features, including springs, shocks and bracing, plus a scooped hood and four stock scoops on the sides. The tires are

’

A 1972 Ford Ranchero GT and 1991 Ford Mustang GT owned by Steven Sears.

Below: Sears sits in his 2002 Ford Thunderbird Roadster with a hard tonneau cover that Sears had made by the original designer of the 1962 Thunderbird tonneau cover.

10 inches wide, and the car can take corners at 50 mph.

In 2005, Sears convinced a substitute teacher to sell him a 1972 Ranchero GT that was “rusty and rough” for just $100.

That car boasts a 351 Cleveland engine with performance modifications, including an after-market cam shaft.

It’s got a four-barrel carburetor and posi-traction rear end.

A four-speed transmission with a hydraulic clutch will be going in soon to replace the heavy-duty automatic transmission. Other interesting quirks added by Sears include rectangular amber fog lights and a GT emblem from a 1967 Fairlane in the front grill.

“This was my idea of a truck — everyone needs a truck around here — and a winter driver,” says Sears.

In 2013, Sears sold his Acura with 279,000 miles on it and bought his current “daily driver,” a 2002 Thunderbird Roadster in stock midnight black that he calls “Black Beauty.”

“This baby has some lines to it,” Sears says of the limited-edition vehicle that was the first of a wave of cars redesigned in the early 2000s to be like their vintage predecessors. Sears has painstakingly customized the interior and exterior of the car, which has an all-aluminum 3.9-liter overhead cam engine, with four-wheel independent suspension and a five-speed automatic transmission.

“I drive all my cars, so they are not trailer queens and not perfect, but they are all hot rods and give me a lot of pleasure. If I have a bad day, I go for a drive and everything is all right, balance and harmony restored, says Sears.

Two more project vehicles are in the wings — a 1969 Datsun and a 1967 special-edition Bronco half-cab.

Sears seems to thoroughly enjoy the process of piecing together the unique look and personality of his cars.

He says he does his best to let inspiration come naturally.

He learned to adopt a laid-back approach with the high school kids, also.

“If you shut your mouth, those kids will tell you their entire life story,” he says.

“There’s more to life than money,” he adds of the job he took a 50-percent paycut for after walking away from a 20-year stint at Alcoa.

“I was really good at getting those kids with disabilities to graduate,” says Sears.

Many students would have “walls” up when first transferred to him, but after about a year he’d have them talking to him, and after two years they’d be getting into a routine with their coursework.

“By the fourth year, I had it all lined out.”

A handwritten sign in his garage, admonishes: “Consistency is more important than intensity.”

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

9

Top: Steven Sears in his 2002 Ford Thunderbird Roadster. The hood scoop fins are painted red.

Bottom: Metal flake in the black of the 1972 Ford Ranchero GT. 10

Foothills

November / December 2015

A large, pie-shaped diagram is chalked on the ground for practicing martial arts and old photographs show 6-foot, 3-inch Sears leaping over four people bent at the waist to speed break a board held about six-feet high.

“It’s all in the angles,” says Sears, who has been involved with martial arts for 43 years and still teaches small groups of students at his home.

“Flow is a big part of it, and I just flow from one thing to another,” he adds.

“For me to stop my flow into teaching (martial arts moves) is hard, I’ve been trying not to think for so long.”

Yet think he does, sometimes for years, when it comes to his cars.

All three vehicles have been pinstriped and lettered to Sears’ specifications by the owner of Wenatchee’s Terry Signs.

The cool-toned cherry red paint he bought for the Mustang has pearl flake embedded in it that cost $40 per gram.

For the Thunderbird, Sears added several pieces of chrome, and had a

hard tonneau cover — to house the convertible top — custom made by the designer of the 1962 Thunderbird hard tonneaus.

The piece took nine months to complete, and another four months were required to source red perforated leather for it that would match the accent leather in the car’s interior.

It took six years for Sears to complete the mechanical upgrades and bodywork for the Ranchero.

“All the time I’m doing this, I’m seeing this paint job,” says Sears.

He selected a charcoal that had blue tones in it, and decided to black out all the chrome and add black racing stripes, with red pin striping outside and inside the doors.

He also had red and silver metal flake mixed into the black on the car.

“You can see the red more in the mornings and toward the evening, and the silver shows more up more during the day,” says Sears.

EXPERIENCE Get the Best of the Remaining 2015 Models Now!

This is the hood of the a 1991 Ford Mustang GT.

One piece that still eludes him is a name for his Ranchero.

I’m thinking about “Dark Matter” he says. ”I’ve waited for something to come to me. The other ones just hit me.

This one, I still can’t quite figure out.” F

The New BUICK YES, YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YOU

IN-VEHICLE WI-FI

4G WI-FI HOTSPOT ONSTAR ® 4G LTE ™

662-6134

1-800-450-3600

Ninth & Miller, Wenatchee Caring about your family is what brings you back to ours!

www.sangstermotors.com

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

11

At home on the

river

INSIDE HOME November / December 2015 12 FOOTHILLS

STORY BY DEE RIGS PHOTOS BY MIKE BONNICKSEN

Photo provided

by Arnie Ohaks November / December 2015 FOOTHILLS 13

Top: In a custom design by Sharon Ohaks, the kitchen features clean lines, compact design and cabinet work by Tom Peckham of Leavenworth.

Bottom Left: A raft drifts by on the Wenatchee River as Sharon and Arnie Ohaks enjoy time on their back deck.

Bottom Right: The window in the Ohaks living room is cantilevered out about one foot with tall, narrow side widows that offer views up and down the Wenatchee River.

14

Foothills

November / December 2015

T

he lot along Icicle Road both intrigued and frightened Sharon and Arnie Ohaks.

The views were incredible, but setbacks on the skinny lot left only 25 feet of width to build on — and that was just at the north end of the house. At the south end, the width of the house could only be 19 feet.

“It was ridiculously challenging,” said Todd Smith, the Leavenworth architect who designed the Ohaks’ house.

“The elongation of the site, the slope of the site and the river dictate everything that results.”

Still, after working with Smith and builders Mark Hebert and Matt Steinhauer, the Ohaks decided to proceed.

And the results, said Sharon, “are more than we dreamed of.”

The 1,300-square-foot home features large windows all along its west side, including side windows where the living room juts out about a foot. Those windows give a broader view up and down the river and make the room seem bigger, the Ohaks say.

Married 46 years, the couple bought their lot in 2012 and moved into their new house in 2013. They downsized from a 2,400-square-foot home in Snohomish.

They kept a frugal eye on everything that came into the new house.

“We’ve had various looks over the years, from the Pottery Barn look to the country look,” said Arnie, a leadership and career consultant. “With all the stuff that gets collected over the years, we wanted to do a clean slate, and respect and honor the feel we wanted in this place.”

And that, they say, is modern contemporary. The Ohaks brought in their existing artwork, many pieces created by Sharon who is a retired graphic designer, but they bought new furniture.

Its simple lines create a minimalistic look inside.

On the outside, visitors are greeted by a long wall of metal siding. The Ohaks say it complements the modern look of the home and offers a durable finish for the east side of the house. The rest of the outside walls are cedar.

The couple, both 68, made a conscious decision not to dig into the hill and create a daylight basement.

“Given our age, we felt strongly that we wanted to be on one level,” Arnie said.

Three concrete supports hold up the house, leaving the slope intact.

The flat roof was built to hold heavy snow loads, and the deck off the kitchen ends at the living room. That, Arnie said, allows views straight down to the river bank from the living room windows.

“It creates a bit of vertigo in some of

Score with PUD rebates at ConservationMakesCents.org

facebook.com/ ChelanPUD

I liken Joe to an artist with a track hoe.

L AU R A M R AC H E K , S T. L AU R E N T W I N E RY

We were particularly pleased with both his creativity and his sense of balance.

W I L L I S & M I C H E L L E F LO O D

We could see as Joe walked around, he just has that rare gift to envision a finished landscape before a single rock is turned.

C LY D E & R U T H B A L L A R D

509.665.4916 LandscapeByAnderson.com WA# ANDERL935N4. LICENSED, BONDED, INSURED

November / December 2015

Foothills

15

our visitors,” Arnie said.

The master bedroom is on the south end of the house, with a deck off the side. The Ohaks hope to install a hot tub there. Tall fencing provides privacy.

The couple also decided not to install any windows on the street side of the house. That, and extra wall insulation, keeps road noise to a minimum, they said.

The master bedroom is next to an open room that holds the kitchen, dining area and living room. Next to that are two bedrooms that the couple use as offices. The house also features a

16

Foothills

November / December 2015

two-car garage.

The entire building is 105-feet long.

The Ohaks say a good working relationship with the architect and builders was critical to the success of the house.

Architect Smith credits the builders: “It was a tricky build for those guys,” he said.

And he credits the Ohaks: “It was unique to have an older couple looking past traditions and nostalgia and looking toward a modernist approach to building,” he said.

“Having these hip clients, it was fun,” Smith said. F

Top: The Ohaks wanted metal siding and no windows on the side of their house that faces Icicle Road. That and extra insulation keep road noise to a minimum and add a clean, minimalist, modern look.

Bottom Left: Vessel sinks highlight the master bath.

Bottom Right: Contemporary salt and pepper shakers add interest to the kitchen backsplash.

2015 N UMERICA

FESTIVAL TREES of

W E N AT C H E E

SPONSORED BY:

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

17

Dressing or Stuffing?

It doesn’t matter with this recipe.

18

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

KITCHEN CREATIONS

STORY BY MARLENE FARRELL PHOTOS BY KEVIN FARRELL

T

hanksgiving is about family. And food. The turkey gleams in our imaginations, the golden centerpiece on a laden table. And next to it is the dressing, a steaming combination of bread, onion and herbs, and infused with butter and turkey juices. The heady aroma makes everyone swoon in anticipation of the first mouthful.

So the dressing, for the sake of hungry relatives visiting from far away, deserves as much attention from the cook as the turkey and gravy. To make life simpler, it can be prepared a day ahead (putting cold dressing into the turkey, instead of hot or warm, also

prevents unwanted bacterial growth).

There are endless variations on Thanksgiving dressing. CarolAnn Seaman of Leavenworth offers her quintessential recipe, which delights her family and friends. Over the past 20 years, up to 35 people gather on that special Thursday to enjoy her turkey and dressing.

Bread makes up the bulk of the dressing. CarolAnn uses whatever odds and ends of bread that she has stashed away in her freezer over the last couple months. Though she would avoid rye and sourdough, she says, “Almost any high quality bread will do. Buttermilk

There are plenty of dressing recipes to choose from, but consider CarolAnn Seamon’s version that is faithful to North Central Washington. It includes apples and pears.

November / December 2015

Foothills

19

Above: CarolAnn Seaman added apple and pear to the dressing recipe her mother and grandmother made.

Upper Right: Buttermilk or multigrain bread work well for dressing, but almost any high-quality bread will do, says CarolAnn. Breads to avoid: rye and sourdough.

Lower Right: Fresh herbs, whether from the garden or the grocery store, can make a flavorful difference in your dressing.

20

Foothills

November / December 2015

or multigrain work well.”

CarolAnn doesn’t dry the bread overnight or in the oven, like some recipes require. “I don’t want my dressing robbing the turkey of its juices. I put the dressing in wet, and it comes out wet. That way the meat is juicy, and there’s juice left over for making gravy.”

CarolAnn uses local ingredients when possible. Before chopping, she harvests fresh sage, rosemary and tarragon from her garden and collects a few small Gala apples and a Bartlett pear from the orchard. Fresh herbs are available at most grocery stores for those not lucky enough to grow them in a garden.

CarolAnn’s mother and grandmother made this dressing before her. But she has introduced the apple and pear.

“I like the slightly sweet flavor that they lend.” Nevertheless, CarolAnn

We invite you to visit our showroom for all of your pool and spa needs.

Committed to Excellence

160 S. Worthen Street, Wenatchee (509) 662-1590 pooltospaservices.com

Authorized Dealer

a Spiri loh

ts

A

Roasted especially for

A flavored holiday blend to warm If it’s Santa’s Choice you gotta your heart. love it!

cially for:

Alpine Holiday 12 oz./340 gr.

keeps it traditional because, she says, “I like everything to taste authentic, true to itself.”

CarolAnn has long had a reputation for kitchen magic. She was the founder and owner for 15 years of Leavenworth’s Gingerbread Factory. She sold the booming business 10 years ago, but still often finds herself in a kitchen. “I still have the skills. I occasionally make gingerbread creations, for fun, with my family. Or I donate a dessert to an auction.”

But even CarolAnn admits, “There’s a moment of insecurity when I’m putting the turkey in the oven, about whether it will taste good.” As the turkey roasts, filling the house with its hearty scent, all doubt vanishes.

This recipe is an approximation of what CarolAnn makes every year. She cooks by instinct and without a lot of measuring. The proportions of

BLENofD EXPEw,RT flavorful blend A mello beans Central American 27gr. coffee 8oz/2 Roasters Alpine Coffee h, WA 98826 Leavenwort

ce blend to enhan A rich four bean cup after cup. the holidays Roasters Alpine Coffee ngton 98826 Washi Leavenworth, © Cathie Jones

Rela

800.711.0704

ea m

Roasted Espe

yF or Life T

Help us Find a Cure Aloha Spirits Blend A spirited, yet mellow blend of Latin American beans.

12 oz / 340 gr

Alpine Coffee Roasters Leavenworth, WA 98826

Painting

Announcing

Coffee 12 oz/340 gr Alpine Coffee Roasters Leavenworth, Washington 98826

Private Label Coffee

by Alpine Coffee Roasters • Nearly everyone appreciates a great cup of coffee making private label coffee a perfect holiday gift for clients, customers & friends • A gift of your own private label coffee is affordable & impressive • Your label is professionally designed just for you • Eight bag colors available to highlight your design

email or call for more information java@alpinecoffeeroasters.com

509.548.3313 November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

21

Clockwise from Top Left: Bread makes up the bulk of the dressing, so be sure to use high-quality bread.

Want to start a debate at the Thanksgiving dinner table? Ask the friend or relative sitting next to you whether it’s called stuffing or dressing.

Some diehard dressing fans believe the turkey is the side dish to the real star of the Thanksgiving dinner spread.

Prepared properly, CarolAnn Seaman’s dressing recipe will draw raves at your Thanksgiving gathering.

22

Foothills

November / December 2015

ingredients can be altered to taste, but below is the heart of her recipe.

This makes enough to fully stuff a 12-pound turkey, or about 12 servings.

Adjust the quantity in relation to the bird (double the recipe for an 18-pound turkey, and cook any extra dressing in the bottom of the roaster pan or separately in twice-wrapped package of aluminum foil).

8 tablespoons butter (or a combination of butter and olive oil) 1 large sweet onion, diced (about 3 ½ cups) 3-4 celery stalks, chopped into ½-inch pieces (about 1 ½ cups) 1 large or 2 small apples, peeled and coarsely chopped 1 ripe pear, coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped 1 loaf of high-quality bread chopped into 1 ½-inch cubes (8-9 cups) salt and pepper ½ cup broth (chicken or vegetable) or white wine, optional 1. Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the onion and celery in the butter (or the combined butter and olive oil) until the onion turns translucent and releases some juice, about 10 minutes.

2. Add the apple and pear to the mixture and cook for another 5 minutes.

3. Add all but ½ cup of the bread cubes, herbs (reserving 1 teaspoon of each herb to sprinkle on the turkey), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly, testing the mixture for moistness. It needs to be damp but not dripping. If dry, add ½ cup of broth or white wine. If too wet, add the remaining bread cubes.

4. Cool the dressing in the refrigerator. When fully cool, stuff inside the two cavities of the prepared (rinsed, salted, buttered, and sprinkled with herbs) turkey. Any extra dressing can be left in the bottom of the roaster pan, or cooked separately in a twice-wrapped package of aluminum foil.

5. Cook turkey according to standard roasting guidelines. When the internal temperature of the turkey thigh reads 165° F, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before removing the stuffing and carving the turkey.

6. Optional: Garnish with raisins, dried cranberries or chopped walnuts on top just before serving. F

Healing your back for life’s little moments.

The Spine Clinic at Confluence Health

Call 509-66-SPINE today.

THE FIRST-EVER BLACK STAINLESS STEEL The new premium color of the new line of KitchenAid appliances is a softer, warmer alternative to traditional stainless steel. Designed to blend with other black and stainless appliances, it makes a bold statement and complements kitchen design.

Open 8-8 WEEKDAYS 9-6 WEEKENDS

1729 N. Wenatchee Ave., Wenatchee • 509-663-1671 www.savmart.net November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

23

HELPING HANDS

Grace Perleberg, 10, gives a high-five to Alatheia Riding Center co-owner and therapeutic riding instructor Nancy Grette.

24

Foothills

November / December 2015

STORY BY JAANA HATTON

PH

ON

PHOTOS BY RON MASON

Some horses

help,

and others

need it

The Helpers

I

t all started in 2010, with a horseback ride on a little girl’s fifth birthday — a little girl with spina bifida, which kept her relying on her walker or other people to move around.

Getting into saddle was like the touch of a magic wand; she seemed visibly empowered and connected with the horse, unlike with any mechanical devise.

Nancy Grette and her husband Glenn, as horse owners and with a suitable setting for riding, decided they couldn’t leave it at that. Nancy began a year-long research project and enrolled in classes to become a certified therapeutic riding instructor. In June 2011, they opened the Alatheia Riding Center near Wenatchee.

Krista Perleberg and daughter Grace greet Blakken, a therapy horse that Grace rides weekly at Alatheia Riding Center near Wenatchee.

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

25

Ten-year-old Grace Perleberg, a Cashmere girl born with mitochondrial disease, comes to Alatheia every Wednesday to ride on her regular companion, Blakken. The horse and the girl connect on a level free of words. It just happens.

“After the ride, Grace seems content,” says her mother, Christa Perleberg. “She can’t walk, talk or eat independently, but uses about a dozen self-generated signs to communicate.”

Grace has developed special signs for riding, such as three taps on the saddle horn to walk on and patting her tummy to halt.

The Alatheia program is not trying to train expert equestrians, but improve each client’s skills in everyday living. The movement of the horse simulates walking and creates sensory activity all throughout the body. It’s also a mental booster, with interaction with a living being, rather than manipulating a wheelchair or trying to cope in a world with rules that don’t fit. The Fjord horses Alatheia exclusively uses are a reliable, calm breed, well-suited for special-needs riders.

“Grace started riding in the fall of 2011. Initially, she was not sitting up 26

Foothills

November / December 2015

well,” recalls Christa Perleberg. “At first, Nancy sat behind Grace to hold her.”

Now Grace sits up independently, with two side walkers, and happily claps her hands while on horseback.

Nancy Grette says the new riders are usually excited about the horses. If anyone is intimidated, she eases them into it by gradually creating closeness to the horses through games and activities. Once on horseback, there are more games for fun and confidence building, such as riding through the “car wash.” It’s a high-hanging bar with swimming noodles and ribbons dangling and slowly swaying, and offers a little added excitement to the lessons.

Grace’s grandfather, Roger Perleberg, a welder by profession, made and donated the “car wash” to Alatheia, says Christa Perleberg with obvious pride. Going through it on horseback extracts giggles from her young daughter. Grace also loves water games, such as catching toys from a liquid-filled bucket while in the saddle.

Nancy Grette says families started calling after her May 2011 presentation at a North Central Educational Service District meeting that was attended by

many special-education teachers. From a dozen initial customers, the program has grown to facilitate 55 weekly riders.

Alatheia is a non-profit organization, always looking for volunteers and donations to keep up with its expanding services. Currently the center has 3.5 paid staff positions and 70 volunteers.

“Nancy has created a community,” says Christa Perleberg. “This is a place where we all share a common thread with disability.”

Alatheia Riding Center Location: 2170 Sleepy Hollow Heights, Wenatchee Contact: (509) 630-8710 More info: alatheiaridingcenter.com and on Facebook

Left: Grace Perleberg, born with mitochondrial disease, uses special signs to communicate with her horse, including three taps on the saddle horn to walk.

Above: Grace prepares to enter the “car wash� area of the Alatheia Riding Center. Her grandfather, Roger Perleberg, made and donated the riding obstacle to Alatheia.

November / December 2015

Foothills

27

28

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

Trusting Spirit Horse Rescue volunteer Salvador Cuevas-Castillo gives Sebastian a workout at the Orondo-area ranch.

Sebastian, 8, was born at Trusting Spirit Horse Rescue. The ranch receives mostly abused, neglected or abandoned horses, helping them recover so they can be put up for adoption.

The Helpless The horse-human bond can work the other way around, too. Some horses desperately need people. Claudia Trapp, founder of the Trusting Spirit horse rescue in Orondo, is one such person, with a mission to save and rehabilitate.

Trusting Spirit first opened its gates in January 2006. The ranch mostly receives abused, neglected or abandoned horses through the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society. Once the horses have recovered, they are available for adoption.

One of the current horses, Sebastian, was born on Trapp’s ranch.

Don’t miss our Biggest Ever!

“The mare had been abused and didn’t like humans. She taught the colt to run away from people,” Trapp says.

Sebastian, now 8, is slowly becoming more trustful.

Sebastian has been trained by volunteer Salvador Cuevas-Castillo for two years. It has been a slow process of the man gently gaining the horse’s trust

20th Annual

Y HOLIDA FAIR GIFT

ber 14th

em Saturday, Nov

9am to 3pm

This Fair is SO BCIenGter

the Senior & Foothills School are both g full of excitin booths!

Great Buy! s! , ch n u L , le a S e tmas shopping Raffles, Bak p on your Chris Get a jum

Wenatchee Valley Senior Activity Center

1312 Maple Street

662-7036

Jewelry - Crafts - Gifts Artwork - Beads Beautiful hand-crafted collectibles - home décor Christmas décor - candles - soaps stonework - pottery - quilts & much more Over 100 Booths!

Meet your friends and spend the day!

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

29

and bringing him to a level where Sebastian now circles the arena in a calm canter or confidently walks through the surrounding orchards. At this point, the trainer is still the only one the horse allows on his back.

When the right person comes along, Sebastian can move onto a new home.

His kind eyes are looking for a human to trust.

The adoption isn’t done in a day.

After the horse goes to its new home, Trusting Spirit withholds the right for a year afterwards to check on the animal’s well-being and bring it back if there are signs of neglect.

“We haven’t had to recall a single horse so far,” says Trapp happily.

Trapp, Stephanie Stibal and Cindy Wall are the three women who keep it going. With the help of Cuevas-Castillo and another volunteer, Henry Gonza-

Stephanie Stibal, left, and Claudia Trapp are two of the main volunteers who keepFTrust Spirit Horse Rescue open.2015 30 OOTHILLS November / December

lez, who comes over after his day job in the orchards, the chores get done.

“We could use more volunteers, “Stibal says. “People come, expecting to do a little brushing and petting, but this is hard work; we shovel manure and pull weeds. Bad backs don’t qualify.”

On Make A Difference Day, on the third week of October, they have had lots of extra hands, up to 75 people.

“Those shelters were built by volunteers,” Trapp says, pointing at the sturdy-looking wooden structures.

Trusting Spirit is a non-profit organization, primarily funded by Trapp and in addition by local businesses and individuals. The center also organizes fundraisers to help cover the costs.

“These horses have had it rough. It takes a long time to bring them around.

That’s what we’re all about — finding that trust again,” Trapp says. F

Above: About 15 horses live at the 18-acre Trust Spirit ranch near Orondo. Since 2006, the facility has taken in about 50 at-risk horses.

Left: Teenage girls paint posts as they volunteer at Trusting Spirit Horse Rescue to celebrate Elizabeth Worley’s 13th birthday in 2013. The ranch relies on volunteer help and donations.

Trusting Spirit Horse Rescue Location: 6 Crystal Moon Road, Orondo (between milepost 139-140 on Highway 97) Contact: (509) 679-6555 More info: trustingspirithorserescue.org and on Facebook Wenatchee World file photo/ Don Seabrook

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

31

GIFT OF EXPERIENCE

32

Foothills

November / December 2015

12

STORY BY RACHEL HANSEN

Days for

Christmas T

he joy of giving isn’t as joyful as it Give the gift used to be. Every year, I scan my list of family and friends, racking of memories my brain for something creative What do they this holiday season want? Whatanddomeaningful.

I have time to make?

The truth is, under all the pretty paper and bows, it’s just stuff. Stuff takes up space. It gets returned, lost, ruined in the wash. Few people in my life need more stuff.

You know what they want? Memories.

Bonding time. Maybe a new perspective.

Think about it. Experiences perpetuate the spirit of the holidays by creating a feeling of togetherness in ways that stuff rarely can.

Luckily, we live in a place rich with experiences. Here are 12 days to give for under $100:

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

33

A winter sleigh ride — $16-$26 per person

Don Seabrook photo

Finish these lyrics: “Dashing through the snow … “This year, that song gets real with rosy cheeks, warm blankets and bells. Your best bet is Leavenworth, where five companies offer mountain views and hot cocoa around wood stove fires. Farther north, Sun Mountain Lodge offers mile-long sleigh rides with a stop mid-trip at an old-fashioned packer’s tent for hot cocoa, or for $28 more, a dinner feast.

Parasailing — $49.95 for a 600-foot flight, $59.95 at 800 feet

Put a spring break adventure under the tree. Imagine floating 600 feet to 800 feet above Lake Chelan, attached by harness to a colorful sail, pulled by a speedboat below. Each ride lasts about 12 minutes, although the boat ride can last an hour or more depending on the number of passengers (up to 12-15, varies on the company). Each flight can hold one to three people. When the boat stops, the parasail floats down to the lake for an optional leg dip before finally landing on the boat.

Reilly Kneedler photo 34

Foothills

November / December 2015

Aerial yoga — $13-$50

After heavy holiday food and stress, how about a long stretch in a silken cocoon? At Fabulous Feet in Wenatchee, the class flows through different yoga poses suspended in the air with long fabric hammocks.

Northwest Yoga Play also hosts twohour aerial workshops at varying locations.

Try Beyoutiful Hot Yoga for other flavors of yoga, including Glowga — yoga with black lights and glow sticks — and partner/acro yoga.

Get artsy — $6-$60 No artistic talent required. Inspirations Ceramic Café makes it easy with dozens of pottery pieces to paint, a rainbow of mosaic glass and candle wax. The price depends on what you make. For a more themed approach, check out Class with a Glass in Wenatchee. For most classes, $39 gets you a glass of wine, refreshments, supplies and a 2-3 hour session.

Provided photo

Snow tubing — $8-$18 Ski Hill in Leavenworth offers 90 minutes of 100-foot drops and a rope tow for $18. Or, head to Chelan’s Echo Valley, where four tubing lanes, three rope tows and a Poma lift is $8 for a half-day or $10 for a full day.

November / December 2015

Foothills

35

Timbrrr! Winter Music Fest — $35 a day, $55 for the weekend

Jason Tang photo

See all of KEXP’s A-list indie bands in a weekend full of winter magic Jan. 29-30. The Leavenworth Festhalle is the main venue, with smaller acoustic shows scheduled all over Der Town.

The musical lineup will be announced in November. Stevens Pass and Leavenworth Ski Hill offer discounts for festival-goers.

Take a cooking class — $29-$50 Learn how to decorate cakes, entertain for a crowd or cook Portuguese by enrolling in a cooking class offered through Wenatchee Valley College’s Continuing Education department. Most culinary classes are one or two sessions. Can’t decide which one?

WVC offers gift certificates.

Sy Stepanov photo

Bubbles or beer — $35 AleFest, $65 Bubble Bar

Chelan’s Winterfest pours a drink for every taste. Try five kinds of champagne over a gourmet brunch at the Bubble Bar Jan. 17.

At Winterfest AleFest in Manson Jan. 22-23, $35 buys seven tokens of 5-ounce tastes from nearly two dozen breweries and cideries.

36

Foothills

November / December 2015

COMMERCIAL SALES & LEASING

Breakfast and opera — $22$24 tickets, plus breakfast

The best seats at New York’s Metropolitan Opera are at Snowy Owl Theater in Leavenworth. All winter and spring, Icicle Arts will live stream operas direct from New York, including “Madama Butterfly” and “The Magic Flute.” Most showings at the Snowy Owl Theater are at 9:55 a.m. Start the morning with breakfast at O’Grady’s Pantry down the road.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES 135 S. Worthen St., Suite 200 Wenatchee, WA 98801 Office: (509) 888-9480 • Cell: (509) 264-3576 Brad@SageRealEstateServices.com

BRAD ALLEN, CVA

Owner - Designated Broker

Metropolitan Opera photo

get away (from your kitchen) for the holidays.

E

xperience your Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s Eve meal in the nature-inspired setting of the Kingfisher Restaurant & Wine Bar. Savor gourmet meals crafted with superb local ingredients. Reserve your table today and make your holiday one to remember!

Visit SleepingLady.com or call 509-548-6344.

November / December 2015

Foothills

37

Don Seabrook photo

Watch a derby bout — $10 general, $15 rinkside Apple City Roller Derby kicks off its fifth season in January in a new venue, the Leavenworth Festhalle. The lineup hasn’t been announced, but every year ACRD brings in bigger and better teams from around the Northwest. The atmosphere is family-friendly, the action is easy to follow and the players are fun to cheer for.

Don Seabrook photo

Go to a show

There’s something for everyone this year at Numerica Performing Arts Center. For a more traditional gift, take them to the “Old Time Wenatchee Radio Christmas Carol,” a live performance with local actors broadcast on KOHO radio Dec. 23 or 24. Later in the season, watch stunt dogs, twotime Grammy winning jazz singer Diane Schuur, tributes to Michael Jackson and the Rat Pack, and more. If the show doesn’t fit, call the box office for an exchange.

38

Foothills

November / December 2015

Women’s Escape at Mission Ridge — $60, $50 for season-pass holders

Mission Ridge photo

Cheaper than a traditional lift ticket, these full-day outings include a half-day lesson with women of the same skill level and lunch, too. Visit missionridge.com for specifics, including dates.

SEPTEMBER 15 – DECEMBER 7, 2015

SAVE $100* OR MORE WITH REBATES on qualifying purchases of Hunter Douglas window fashions.

Time to dec your window

Save with mail-in reb Hunter Douglas wind

SEPTEMBER 15 – DECEMBER 7, 2015

Time tomail-in decorate *Manufacturer’s rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/15 – Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and your forafter card issuance and each month there assessedwindows against card balance 7 months reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. the holidays!

SAVE $100* OR MORE WITH REBATES on qualifying purchases of Hunter Douglas window fashions.

SILHOUETTE® WINDOW SHADINGS

Time to decorate your windows for the holidays!

Save with mail-in rebates on a selection of stylish Hunter Douglas window fashions. Ask for details.

Save with mail-in rebates on a selection of stylish Hunter Douglas window fashions. Ask for details.

Open M-F 9-6 • Sat. 10-3

2101 North Duncan Drive Wenatchee • (509) 662-9500 www.insidedesignc1.com facebook.com/insidedesigncarpetone

*Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/15 – 12/7/15 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2015 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

39

FITNESS

A runner pounds the Loop Trail pavement during Run Wenatchee’s weekly Thursday run.

40

Foothills

September / October 2015

STORY BY RACHEL HANSEN PHOTOS BY FRANK CONE

Run Wenatchee

GOES THE

distance K

lara Berschauer, 7, raced her strollerpushing mom for part of their 3-mile run.

Gary Otheim, 73, already ran 10 miles that morning. What’s three more?

Deana Oudean, 56, used to read in the car while her son Spencer ran, but now she walks every week, even when her son can’t come.

They all belong to the same club — Run Wenatchee’s Thursday run club.

Every week, more than 150 people convene on the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail to walk or run 3 miles or 10, whatever they can do.

If you go

What: Run Wenatchee weekly runs and walks When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays year-round Where: Behind Saddle Rock Pub & Brewery, 25 N. Wenatchee Ave. Distance: To the Walla Walla Point Park playground and back to Saddle Rock is 5K (3.1 miles) or the entrance of Confluence State Park and back to Saddle Rock is 10K (6.2 miles) Run club shirts: Check in before or after every run/ walk; T-shirts awarded after 10, 25, 50 and 100 weeks Cost: Free Info: facebook.com/RunWenatchee, runwenatchee.com

September / October 2015

FOOTHILLS

41

Run Wenatchee gives runners a free T-shirt for completing 25, 50 and 100 Thursday runs.

“There’s a steady flow of people,” said Michelle Rhyner, one of Run Wenatchee’s four coordinators. “There might be 170 people tonight. It might not feel like it, but by the end of the night, you’d be surprised.”

Between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m., volunteers set up a table behind Saddle Rock Pub & Brewery where they offer water, a key drop and a sign-in sheet to log every run. They hand out T-shirts for club members who reach milestones: 10 runs, 25, 50 and 100.

“We thought it was essential that everything was free,” said coordinator Joel Rhyner. “We didn’t want any barriers at all. We didn’t want to be the exclusive, elite running club.”

For about half of the club, the Thursday runs are a solo pursuit, supported by the breathy hellos and sweaty high-fives of fellow runners.

“I go by myself, but I still feel like I’m part of something,” said Eden Moody, a Run Wenatchee volunteer. “Last year I lost my mom, and that was tough. I stopped running for the longest time, but I knew I had to come.”

Gary Otheim keeps up the pace during a Thursday run.

for a Holiday Headstart!

Special

WINTER MEMBERSHIP

ORONDO

CIDER WORKS

Wh e r e

e Cider and D o u g h n u t s a re j u s t t h e b

Open Daily

ng! ginni

Dec.-Mar.

Now making Sandwiches for Breakfast & Lunch EXPERIENCE FRESH PRESSED CIDER

• Fruit, gifts, hard ciders, coffee & espresso, groceries, ice, propane & more!

• Homemade jams, jellies, appleOPEN butter,DAILY apple crisp, apple sauce & salsa!

• Pizza & Ice Cream made fresh to order • Cider Pressing Every week – Call for details

The

www.ciderworks.com • 509-784-1029 Corner of Hwy. 97 & Suncove Rd., 10 mi. S. of Beebe Bridge, 5 mi. N. of Daroga State Park

We ship gift boxes of apples coast to coast 42

Foothills

November / December 2015

Wenatchee Racquet & Athletic Club

www.wrac .o 662-3544 rg

It’s All Here!

Check Out Our Newest Stores:

All American Ice Cream Auntie Anne’s Bath & Body Works Bed, Bath & Beyond Bellagio Nail Salon Boost Mobile Buckle Cellairis The Children’s Place Christopher & Banks Claire’s Boutique Covers Unique ecoATM Feel Good Chairs

Food Pavilion Foot Locker GNC GO! Calendars, Games & Toys Harry Ritchie’s Jewelers Hot Topic I-City Just Sports Kanzaman Tobacco & Gift Shop Kay Jewelers000000 Mall Management Office MasterCuts Olive Garden Payless ShoeSource

Valley Mall Parkway, East Wenatchee

Pink Couture RadioShack rue21 Sears HomeTown Shari’s Silver City Jewelry Spencer Gifts Stylemasters Studio Tacos Chava Thee Elite Barbershop Ultimate Comfort Valley Fashion Wells Fargo Bank Zumiez

www.WenatcheeValleyMall.com

Kelsee, Klara and Lydia Berschauer make it a family affair during a Thursday run.

Mary Armstrong and Mary Ballard are all smiles after completing one of Run Wenatchee’s runs in September.

Run Wenatchee by the numbers* Average year-round turnout: 158 Average winter turnout: 134 Biggest turnout: 355 people on April 10, 2014 Weeks held since 2013: 135 100-run shirts awarded: 8 50-run shirts awarded: 88 44

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

25-run shirts awarded: 234 10-run shirts awarded: 626 Number of people listed on sign-in sheets: 2,095 Total number of sign-ins: 21,310 *as of Sept. 8 Source: Run Wenatchee

Moody ran in 5K and 10K running events, and logged nearly 50 club runs, but she doesn’t consider herself a runner.

“It’s something I do once or twice a week,” she said.

It’s a phrase Joel Rhyner hears every Thursday: “I’m not a runner.” But eventually, many club members end up signing up for Run Wenatchee’s trail runs or marathon events. The club’s website and Facebook page have published dozens of how-to articles about running to help people progress.

“We’ve had people who had never run before join the club,” Joel Rhyner said. “They start walking, and that’s fine. They can earn a shirt as fast as somebody running. Then, they start walk-jogging. And now they’re in a 5K.” Kit Cammack, a physical therapist at Biosports, came up with the idea of a Wenatchee run club based on a 1,000-strong running club she joined in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“I’d always been involved in athletics, but when I went to Jack Quinn’s run club, I got into running,” she said. “That’s what spurred me to

• Cardio Equipment area • Free weight and equipment area • Functional training area • Cycle Studio • Group Exercise Studio • Yoga Studio • Outdoor training area • Lounge area

Travis Dolge and his four-legged friend pal around during a run in September. reach out to people in Wenatchee, especially to people who had never run before. I wanted everyone to be included — babies, dogs, first-timers, retired folks.”

The club’s first run was on a dark, cold night in January 2013. With little more than a Facebook page for advertising, about 50 runners showed up in puffy jackets, beanies and gloves.

Three weeks later, more than 100 people joined.

“We were ecstatic,” Joel Rhyner said.

“At the time, if we got people to come 10 or 20 times, we’d hit a home run.”

Since then, eight people have earned the coveted 100-run shirt. Springtime, the club’s biggest season, averages 255 people a night. Even in the dead of winter, about 130 runners turn out.

“I’ll bundle up,” said Cooke Martinez as he walked with his grown son, Isaac.

“I’m a people person. Just meeting other people out here makes it worth it for me.”

He paused to wave at a passing runner, Brian Vincent, “Hey Brian!”

“People doing things together brings us closer,” Martinez said. F

Now a proud distributor of Advocare Health Products!

GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES

509-886-8720

515 Grant Rd. • East Wenatchee

www.mountainviewfitness.com

ZUMBA • POWER PUMP • YOGA STEP CARDIO • TAI CHI • PIYO TRANSFORM • REVOLUTION CYCLE • LITE N EASY

246 n mission | WenatcheePD.com | Like us!

November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

45

THE VINE

Experiencing the fl Cairdeas brings the taste of the Rhone Valley to Lake Chelan

The Cairdeas tasting room is near the north shore of Lake Chelan, near Manson.

46

Foothills

November / December 2015

Y

ou don’t have to travel to France to enjoy the complex, flavorful wines of the Rhone Valley. Cairdeas Winery has focused its production on bringing Rhone Valley blends to Lake Chelan.

Charlie and Lacey Lybecker are making their dreams come true by making the Northern Rhone and southern Cote du Rhone-style wines they love in a way and place that nicely fits Washington’s wine country lifestyle.

Cairdeas Winery was founded in West Seattle in 2009, but it didn’t come into its own until Charlie and Lacey moved to Lake Chelan a couple years later.

“We knew we didn’t want to be an urban winery. We wanted the lifestyle,” said Lacey, who divides her time between the winery, as marketing manager for the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce and the mother of two young boys, Eugene and Francis.

Their present tasting room and production plant is located off Highway 150 and Winesap Road, close to Manson and several other lakeside wineries.

It’s a great location, Charlie said, with beautiful views of the lake and room to grow.

Cairdeas Winery 3395 Highway 150, Chelan 509-687-0555 cairdeaswinery.com

STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER PHOTOS BY RON MASON

e flavors of France

Charlie and Lacey Lybecker moved their winery from West Seattle to Lake Chelan in 2011. They have two sons, Francis and Eugene.

November / December 2015

Foothills

47

Above: Cairdeas Winery’s plans for 2016 include expanding its small estate vineyard by adding 2 acres of new vines.

Top right: The Cairdeas tasting room has a large lawn area overlooking Lake Chelan.

Right: Ripe Roussanne grapes ready for crushing into juice.

48

Foothills

November / December 2015

The couple plans to build a new winery, tasting room and event facility on the grounds next year as well as expand its small estate vineyard with 2 acres of new vines.

All of the wines are made at the winery, while most of the grapes are grown at renowned vineyards in Central Washington, at least for now.

The winery makes about 2,500 cases of wines, but that is likely to increase after the new production facility is built. Their wines are fairly unique among Washington’s more than 800 wineries. Inspired by France’s Rhone

Valley, Charlie focuses on blends of exotic grapes like Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier, Picpoul, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Carignan and Cinsault.

“Even people who are familiar with wine aren’t familiar with our wine varietals,” he said. That’s likely to change. One wall in Cairdeas’ small tasting room is covered with awards its wines have garnered.

The name “Cairdeas” comes from Charlie’s Irish heritage. It’s an ancient Gaelic world meaning friendship, goodwill or alliance.

November / December 2015

Foothills

49

Above: Collin DeLong, left, and Thomas Harwood work together to drop more than 1,000 pounds of Roussanne grapes into a crusher for processing into juice. DeLong and Harwood work at the Vin du Lac wine production facility at Chelan Falls, where Cairdeas Winery had this batch of grapes processed.

Right: The tasting room is full of knickknacks and art pieces.

50

Foothills

It’s a fitting term for a winery run by two extremely outgoing, friendly people who love to spread goodwill by sharing their wines with new friends in the tasting room.

Wine was definitely central to the alliance between Charlie and Lacey, both in love and their new lifestyle-business adventure.

Charlie admits he knew little about wine before he met Lacey.

He worked for a Seattle radio station that was participating in a fundraising activity with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where Lacey was a marketing agent.

She had been to Australia and New Zealand and was in love with their wines

C. R. Sandidge Wines, Inc.

“Wines of Supreme Elegance”

Tasting Room Location: 145 Wapato Way, Suite 1 Manson WA 509.682.3704 crsandidgewines.com

as well as their developing wine industries. The two dated, dined, drank and, as they say, the rest is history.

“We fell in love with each other, and we fell in love with Syrah,” Charlie recalled. “I said, ‘Someday we should start our own winery.’ My wife, being the adventurous one, said ‘Let’s look into it.’ ” In the traditional style of a French garagista, they started their own winery using second-hand equipment and barrels in the garage of their West Seattle home.

Tasting Room Hours: Friday-Sunday ~ Noon to 6pm Located above Three Lakes. Take Malaga-Alcoa Hwy., right at West Malaga Rd., right at Hamlin, right at Joe Miller, left at the sharp curve onto Cathedral Rock Rd. Watch for signs.

3450 Cathedral Rock Road, Malaga WA • (509) 679-0152

MalagaSpringsWinery.com Malaga Springs Winery sun 10-23 2x4.688 November / December 2015 Proof to Kathy—JW 1023.306592.2X4.688.FoothillsNovDec.

FOOTHILLS

51

Right: Cairdeas Winery will use 8 tons of Roussanne grapes from Lawrence Vineyards in the Frenchman Hills to produce about 240 cases of the winery’s 2015 Roussanne.

Below: A group of Seattle friends play a game of No Shame Charades at the Cairdeas Winery tasting room over the Labor Day weekend.

52

Foothills

November / December 2015

They made just 150 cases that first year, but quickly realized they would need much more room for what they had in mind.

Charlie said he’s always loved learning how things work. He became passionate about learning how to make wine, reading everything he could find, going back to college to learn chemistry and attending classes at South Seattle’s Northwest Wine Academy.

The couple have traveled to France, where they were smitten by the lifestyle and wines of the Rhone Valley: the soft, fragrant Syrah of the north, often blended with Viognier or Roussanne; the complex blends

of the south. Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the southern region’s most famous wine, can be made from as many as 19 grape varietals. Mourvedre, Grenache, Carignan, Counoise and Cinsault are popular Rhone blending grapes.

“We blend everything. I love blending wines. I love learning how different aromatics and flavors work together,” Charlie said.

The winery offers four wines this year, not counting some special releases for wine club members only.

The two fragrant whites and two sumptuous reds are all sensational.

Take a sip, look over the vineyard to the lake — you might just think you’re vacationing in the south of France. F

Above: Charlie Lybecker holds freshly harvested Roussanne grapes.

November / December 2015

Foothills

53

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

A TASTE OF NCW WINES WITH BARB ROBERTSON

Benson Vineyards 2012 Rhythm, $28 Rhythm … a strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound. The Benson family named their wine well because the big, vibrant notes of chocolate covered cherries, red plum and raspberry jam are repeated in the aromas and on the palate. Integrated tannins and soft acidity make this a wine for enjoying anytime. The unusual blend of Syrah, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir are in harmony as they beat to a great rhythm.

This blend will be a good choice for festive dinners due to its food friendly structure of balanced acids and tannins, a hallmark of the Chelan AVA.

Tildio 2014 Estate Sauvignon Blanc, $25 I had a hard time choosing which wine I wanted to feature from Tildio. The Sauvignon Blanc is beautiful with its fresh herbal and citrus qualities. Co-owner/winemaker Milum Perry said they were going for a New Zealand style with this wine and it definitely has that wow factor. But it also reminds me of a classic Loire Valley with some floral and mineral notes after you get past the more forward gooseberry and passion fruit flavors. The other wine I really like is called The Hermit, a bow to the French appellation known as Hermitage. Its 50% estate Syrah and 50% Grenache. This is the kind of red I could drink every day. It is quite elegant with its medium body, structured acidity and balanced tannins. There are berries galore and a little bit of earthiness … just a tiny bit. The Hermit is $32 and the Sauvignon Blanc is $25

Barb Robertson City: Wenatchee Credentials: Earned advanced certification through London-based Wine and Spirit Education Trust; currently working toward higher-level diploma 54

Foothills

Vin Du Lac 2011 Red Café Pinot Noir, $25 For those of you looking for a friendly Pinot Noir to introduce your family and friends to, this is the wine for you. There is plenty of character for the oenophile but it’s an open style and easily accessible for the beginner.

Red licorice, cherry cola and floral notes are wrapped up in soft tannins and smooth acids. I could see pairing this with Mexican food. Yes, I know many of you drink beer or margaritas with your tacos, but if you wanted to change things up, the Café Red Pinot Noir might convert you to drinking vino with your Latin spice.

through WSET. Earned degree in marketing from Central Washington University. Owned The Wine Bin retail shop in Wenatchee for five years. Has worked in Northwest wine industry for more than 10 years, including distribution, sales, production and marketing. Was a judge for the 2011-15 North Central Washington Wine Awards.

UPON FURTHER REVIEW

Cairdeas Winery 2014 Nellie Mae, $22 Here is a wine that will brighten a dreary winter day. Tropical fruits such as pineapple and guava take you to a sunny island beach without even leaving your chair. The full-bodied style of the blend — 70% Viognier and 30% Roussanne — will work well with a variety of coldweather dishes. I often have soup this time of year, so butternut soup and clam chowder are on the top of my mind for pairings. The stainless steel ferment helps to make Nellie Mae very food friendly with its clear flavors and crisp finish. The wine is a w w w. t u n n e l hlovely i l l w i tribute n e r y. cto om the 3 7 H w y 9 7 A : : C h e l a n , WA 5 0 9 - 6 8women 2 - 3 2 4 3in their family w inspire them.

FREE CULINARY & AG TOURISM

DRIVING MAP EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY

& BOUNTY OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

CascadeFarmlands.com fly here: pangborn memorial airport

C ome to Y our Senses IN LAKE CHELAN

W

I

N

E

R

: : AWA R D W I N N I N G W I N E S : : : : S P E C TAC U L A R V I E W S : : : : F R I E N D LY FAC E S : :

Y

W I N T E R H O U R S : : O P E N S AT & S U N 1 2 - 5

Come pay us a visit. You'll enjoy y ourself. t u n n e l h i l l w i n e r y. c o m : : 3 7 H w y 9 7 A : : C h e l a n , WA : : 5 0 9 - 6 8 2 - 3 2 4 3

Winery Bistro QFSGFDUMZ Ç CBMBODFE WJOEVMBD DPN

)ZX $IFMBO 8"

Holiday treats & gifts crafted by local artisans!

Open 7am-6pm 7 days a week

www.lonepinefruit.com

Handmade soaps, soothing lotions, candles, cookbooks and cards.

Tasty jams, honey, spices, baked goods and seasonal produce.

Large selection of Washington wines, hard cider and micro brews.

4 miles south of Beebe Bridge • 17 miles north of Orondo 23041 Hwy 97, Orondo, WA 98843 • mile post 230/231 November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

55

THE SCENE

PHOTOS BY FRANK CONE

Brian and Gina Etzkorn, Ben Sappington, and Sue and Randy Fenich in the VIP room.

T

he Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival drew more than 400 people to Town Toyota Center on Aug. 22. The event, which celebrated the winners from this year’s North Central Washington Wine Awards, featured 31 wineries pouring and more than 10 restaurants/ caterers serving up their best.

Musical entertainment for the evening was provided by the Confluence Jazz Trio.

56

Foothills

November / December 2015

Brenden Copner and Ashley Turner

Tess and Jake Davison

Ross and Lisa Hurd

Nathan and Andrea Stewart Left: The Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival filled the floor at Town Toyota Center.

November / December 2015

Foothills

57

SHOP DOWNTOWN WENATCHEE

COLLINS FASHIONS Make things a little Brighter with Brighton!

We carry the full line from handbags, wallets, jewelry, rings and watches to sunglasses and home accessories. Collectibles and embellished jewelry crafted with love. Perfect gifts for your friends and loved ones.

2 S. Wenatchee Ave. 509-665-7600 www.collinsfashions.com Follow us on facebook!

N E

2 S. Wenatchee Ave. Downtown Wenatchee 509.665.7600 November / December 2015

FOOTHILLS

59

Celebrate the season in Cashmere . . . a place where authentic small-town charm offers a truly unique experience.

Peruse the aisles of the boutiques and antique malls.

Enjoy a pastry or a hearty meal.

Sip locally handcrafted cider, wine and spirits.

Stroll along the tree-lined Cottage Avenue historic district.

Explore the Gnome doors.

Or just take in the sights and sounds of a decorated downtown, complete with a community Christmas tree.

Join us on Thursday, December 17th between 5 – 7 pm on Cottage Avenue, in the heart of downtown Cashmere.

Enjoy a warm beverage, holiday treats, and festive music as you cozy up around a fire pit with family and friends, while waiting for the arrival of the big man himself –

Santa Claus!

Christmas in Cashmere . . . old fashioned holiday fun!

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

For more information contact the Cashmere Chamber of Commerce at 509-782-7404 or info@cashmerechamber.org.

Comfort is...giving a gift that will last CHARITY PROMOTION*

Make a $50 donation to Children’s Home Society and Save $200* *See store for complete details.

ic

If your room needs extra assistance, ask Buffy or Reneé for Boswell’s complimentary design service.

n!

Highway 2 • Wenatchee • 663-2548 OPEN: MON.-sAT. 9:30-5:30 WWW.BOSWELLSFURNITURE.COM | FREE LOCAL DELIVERY | 6 MONTHS SAME AS CASH OAC

PARTING SHOT

Canada geese are captured in this Frank Cone photo taken from the north shore of Lake Chelan looking south. Frank shot this image in mid-September.

OOTHILLS WENATCHEE ◆ LEAVENWORTH ◆ CHELAN AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

62

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015

FIND EVENTS

ncwcalendar.com

featuring cabinetry from

ADD EVENTS

Now is the time to plan for a new Kitchen or Bathroom. Let us help guide you through your remodeling project.

FREE DESIGN!

Over 60 years of Kitchen and Bath Design Experience.

• 3,500 sq. ft. design showroom • Complete home design packages • Computer-aided cabinet layouts • Installation available

• Cabinetry • Decorative Tile • Countertops • Carpet, Vinyl & Wood Flooring

509.548.5829

www.marsonandmarson.com/designcenter.html 11685 US Hwy 2 in Leavenworth Hours: Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 2pm November / December 2015

Foothills

63

Your Mattress Experts!

OPEN NOWSES LAKE!

IN MO

Over 40 Styles To Choose From Over 2000 Mattresses In Stock 300 Free Furniture With any Tempur-Pedic Mattress Purchase $

300 Free Furniture With any icomfort Mattress Purchase $

Y!

BU HOT

% OFF!

25

Villa Queen Size Plush or Firm Set NOW

799

$

WALKERSFURNITURE.COM ! WALKERSMATTRESS.COM

East Wenatchee 176 Grant Rd. ! 509.886.1187

Moses Lake 117 W. Broadway ! 509.765.9766

PARTING SHOT

Canada geese are captured in this Frank Cone photo taken from the north shore of Lake Chelan looking south. Frank shot this image in mid-September.

OOTHILLS WENATCHEE ◆ LEAVENWORTH ◆ CHELAN AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON

62

FOOTHILLS

November / December 2015