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A special guide to eating, shopping and flourishing through the holidays in the greater Spokane Valley Inserted after page 14
2 • December 2012
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The Current
Spokane Valley Partners Emergency Services Program Manager Steve Brown is chairman of the freshly minted Valley Homeless Network.
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Current photo by Craig Howard
Shelter from the storm New Valley Homeless Network rallies to support disenfranchised
A Cup of Joe
By Craig Howard Current Contributor
Steve Brown's official title at Spokane Valley Partners is emergency services program manager, although the five-year veteran of the Valley's only one-stop community center also serves as counselor, resource guru, mentor, housing specialist and resident conveyor of hope. It made sense, then, that Brown would be named chairman of a new consortium known as the Valley Homeless Network, an advocacy group taking on an issue more associated with Spokane Valley's municipal neighbors to the west. Yet when you talk to Brown — who is on the frontlines of economic turbulence each workday — the problem goes well beyond downtown Spokane. The Network itself sprang from a community needs assessment conducted by a program called H.E.A.R.T. (Homeless Education and Resource Team) that supports students in temporary or transitional housing from the Central Valley, East Valley and West Valley school districts. From August through October of this year, the program reported 410 students in the greater Spokane Valley area who were without stable housing. Throughout Spokane County, a total of 1,185 people — or nearly five out of every 1,000 residents — have experienced homelessness in 2012, according to Spokane's Homeless Management Information System. Brown has talked to a number of those seeking shelter. A good portion of those who call the main SVP line at 927-1153 are patched through to his office.
The good news is that Brown and other social service ambassadors are working diligently to gather and connect resources on behalf of those without a roof over their heads. Brown is already part of the Spokane Homeless Coalition, a conglomeration of nonprofits, municipalities and other community groups that gather on the first Thursday of each month to discuss issues surrounding homelessness. While the Valley Homeless Network has only met three times since September, Brown said he has been encouraged by the ambition and commitment of those in attendance. Thus far, the roll call has included representatives from all three Valley school districts, the city of Spokane Valley, the Spokane Regional Health District, Liberty Lake Kiwanis and the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, among other entities. The Current caught up with Brown in his office on a recent afternoon to talk about his hopes for the Network, the stigma of homelessness and other issues related to the quest for stability in an unstable world.
Talk about your daily routine as an emergency services program manager. How did you end up working here? This is about as far off my career path as I've been. This is new to me. I was in fundraising and development for ministry organizations like
See SHELTER, page 4
The Current
December 2012 • 3
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The Current
4 • December 2012
SHELTER Continued from page 2
the Christian Broadcasting Network and other national organizations. What I do now is talk to people who need help. The calls range from "I'm about to lose my apartment" to "My electricity has been turned off, it's getting awful cold, can you help?" I get calls from people who are living in their cars. Q: It sounds like fairly daunting work. How do you manage to stay optimistic as you're trying to help these people? A: The key in all this is the sense of hope. When there isn't a sense of something to work toward, it's very difficult to encourage someone. I like to try to support them as much as I can. A lot of times it's just having someone who cares. It can make a lot of difference. Q: When most people think about Spokane Valley, I'm guessing that homelessness isn't a prevailing topic. How would your characterize the issue in this area? A: At least a third of the calls I get are about housing. Homelessness is a very real thing here in the Valley. Many of us are just a couple of paychecks from sitting in this office, looking over the desk, saying, "I'm out of work, I need help." Q: I know there are a few organizations in the Valley like Hearth Homes that specialize in accessible housing as well as some affordable housing made available through groups like Community Frameworks and SNAP, but there doesn't seem to be any sort of homeless shelter in the Valley. Could we use one? A: It would be something to consider. I think it's more about how we can maximize our collective efforts to address a problem that is really beyond one organization. What can be effectively done? If you're in the city (of Spokane), there's a place to stay. We need to find out what needs there are in the Valley and provide that. I don't want to compete with the city. I don't think that's necessary. Q: Some people claim we're emerging out of the recession, others say it's still very much here. How have these uncertain economic times affected what you do here? A: I've had seasoned executives who have lost everything sit across from my desk because they couldn't pay their light bill. Many are almost apologetic when they come in. It's life situations that even the most affluent people run into. Even if you have money in the bank, you can feel that hopelessness of homelessness. … You feel, "Where do I go from here?" But the thing is, there's always that sense of the next step, or that hope. If I can somehow communicate hope, then I've done part of my job. Q: Talk about the origins of the Valley
Homeless Network and what you think it might be able to accomplish. A: It started with a community needs assessment through the H.E.A.R.T. program. Toward the end of that meeting we started talking about how we could reach out to the community and share with them what the impact of homelessness is. How can we get the community involved? The first discussion was that we needed to form a coalition like Spokane has and bring together clothing banks, food banks and other services. Many of the resources for the homeless are primarily in the city of Spokane. We want to talk about how we can expand their vision, their participation into the Valley. This network should represent resources in the Valley appropriately. Q: You've been appointed chair of this group. What do you feel you bring to the table that will benefit its mission? A: All I was asking for was to facilitate the first meeting but already, the leadership has been spontaneous. We're already starting to connect and get lists of resources. For me, the Spokane Homeless Coalition was a great help. I didn't know the language, didn't know the issues, especially in Spokane, what was happening. In the coalition meetings, people there were great. They were an immediate network to tie into. Q: What were some of the lessons you've learned through the coalition that have helped you at SVP and could be an asset with the Valley Homeless Network? A: All of the government acronyms, the different way to communicate what resources are out there. There are some great programs, especially on a county level, that I wouldn't have known about if I hadn't been part of that group. The whole purpose there is to just collaborate, to coordinate resources and advocate on behalf of the homeless. Q: What can you do in your role at SVP when faced with a situation where a person is literally out in the cold? A: I can encourage them and tell them how places like the Union Gospel Mission and Hope House are excellent organizations. They have marvelous programs. They can help guide you to stability and transitional housing and if you really work on your own behalf, you can move into your own house. Q: Will there be a fundraising component to the Network? A: Fundraising is difficult if you don't have a structure, and right now we really don't have a structure. We're working on that. Just speaking for myself, I think it would make sense to be under the umbrella of an established nonprofit organization that could sponsor us as a program. Q: Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake
both have stringent regulations against panhandling and now the city of Spokane is getting tougher with their law. What are some of your thoughts on the enforcement of these ordinances? A: I think of the people standing on the street corners. We've pushed them to the side. We don't see them anymore, but that doesn't mean homelessness has gone away. People who rely on panhandling, there's got to be another answer. I know that Spokane Police have a policy where they're supposed to give people fair warning, but also guidance on what resources are available, so they aren't just shoved out. There should be an element of expressing care and concern and pointing them to resources instead of standing on the street. Q: How are we, as a community, doing right now as far as supporting our less fortunate neighbors? A: Right now the utility companies across the board have been a great support. They provide a great deal of support in trying to help people pay their light bill. A lot of times, people put paying that bill off because there's something else of more importance they have to pay right at the moment. At Valley Partners, it depends a great amount on what we have available from donations and other sources. Q: Do you think that the Network will receive support from cities in the greater Spokane Valley and Spokane County? A: Just speaking for myself, I hope that the community will stand up and provide that hope for people. It wouldn't take much. I think this community cares. We just need to connect that with practical application. I firmly believe that if the business community supports this network, it will be a success. Q: What are your hopes for the Network? A year from now, where would you like this group to be? A: Of course, we'd like to secure local funding and means by which people can help themselves. I'd like to see additional resources like Work Source where people can find meaningful employment. We want people to join this group who can make a difference. It doesn't take a lot when you have groups working with other groups to address a problem. We don't want to enable people. The vast majority of people I work with are not looking for a handout. We want to equip them to become self-sufficient. Whoever is the leader needs to act as a rallying point. It's going to require the church leaders, the fraternal club leaders, the corporate leaders and city leaders to support it. Q: What can the average person do to help? A: I'd like to encourage people to take action. The answer is us. These people need the support of a caring community.
In case you missed it Compiled by Josh Johnson Current Staff Writer
Election results mixed for Valley Greater Spokane Valley area voters cast conservative ballots overall, meaning the results of the November general election varied depending on perspective. On the one hand, the majority of Valley voters agreed with those in other precincts in electing a slate of Republicans locally, including Todd Mielke and Shelly O'Quinn as county commissioners and re-electing Matt Shea and Cathy McMorris Rodgers to the Houses in Olympia and Washington, D.C., respectively. On the other hand, if it had been up solely to the voters in precincts in places like Spokane Valley, Millwood, Liberty Lake and Rockford, gay marriage and marijuana ballot measures would have failed, Rob McKenna would be governor and Mitt Romney would be president.
Shea re-elected to leadership position Republican 4th District State Rep. Matt Shea was easily re-elected despite a campaign fight with challenger Amy Biviano that made headlines for plenty of wrong reasons. In the end, voters favored the representative over his opponent by a safe 57-43 margin. Turns out, his Republican colleagues in the Washington House of Representatives continue to favor Shea as well. Shortly after the election, House Republican leadership elections were held, and Shea retained his position as assistant floor leader. As assistant floor leader, Shea will help manage legislation and debate on the floor of the House, and will represent Republicans in negotiations with majority party floor leaders. He will also participate and provide input in House Republican leadership meetings, including legislative strategy and policy decisions.
A kindler, gentler (and still critical) message Following this summer's "Drive Hammered, Get Nailed" campaign targeting drunk driving, a new initiative has been launched in Spokane County for the holidays. This one is called "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," and while it's the first time the campaign has gone by that name, what it represents is the familiar and important beefing up of DUI patrols during the holiday season. No matter which phrasing you prefer, the point is to heed the warning. It's possible to be smart and enjoy a happy holidays.
The Current
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The Current
6 • December 2012
Company Ballet will be performing during Millwood's sixth annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 6 p.m. Dec. 7. Santa will be on hand to start the countdown to lighting the tree on the Inland Empire Paper Company's front lawn, 3320 N. Argonne Road. The festivities include music, caroling, hot chocolate and cookies. For more information, call Shirene Young at 924-1911, ext. 309.
The City Council is scheduled to vote on recommendations made by Spokane Valley's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee in December. The committee is tasked with helping the city determine how to spend hotel-motel taxes, and the process has turned controversial in year's past as organizations such as Valleyfest and the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum were passed over in favor of recipients the committee judges to do a better job of creating overnight stays in the city — thereby replenishing the fund. Neither Valleyfest nor the museum was recommended again this year.
A 1 percent property tax increase and an EMS levy were adopted by Rockford's Town Council. A budget workshop was also held for council members to discuss measures to generate revenue and cut costs for the town.
Reporting at the Oct. 25 Freeman School Board meeting, Nutrition Services Supervisor Raeann Ducar stated two goals for her department are to strive to be cost neutral and to submit USDA spreadsheets for menus to be certified that they comply with the new meal pattern requirements. Such certification would generate six cents more per meal in reimbursements. She reported she has been successful in narrowing the gap between revenues and expenses, cutting it in half from last year.
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The Current
December 2012 • 7
After receiving an update on the future of municipal animal control from Liberty Lake Police Chief Brian Asmus at the Nov. 13 City Council meeting, members of the governing board agreed to hold a workshop on the matter in December. The city of Liberty Lake currently contracts with Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service (SCRAPS), but is considering other options, including Spokanimal and a city-sponsored system overseen by the police department.
The Central Valley School Board approved a purchase and sale agreement Nov. 13 to sell the city of Liberty Lake a site it has tabbed for a future middle school for $10. The city plans to develop recreational ball fields on the site in step with the district's future plans for the property. When CVSD is ready to build on the site, something Superintendent Ben Small estimated could be 10 to 15 years, it has the option to purchase the property back for $10 plus the fair market value of improvements made to the property.
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Three Up, Three Down features at-a-glance news of what's coming UP in December or went DOWN in November. Check out these six on this rendering of the Valley by homegrown artist Casey Lynch, and then turn the page for a breakdown of items by jurisdiction. (The placement of news items on this artistic map do not necessarily denote the actual location of the item described.)
The Current
8 • December 2012
3UP 3DOWN Three Up, Three Down features at-aglance news from the Spokane Valley area: — what's coming up in December — what went down in November Six of these items are represented on the artistic rendering of the Valley by local artist Casey Lynch on the previous spread.
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY Compiled by Josh Johnson
With the Thanksgiving holiday followed by a training conference, the Spokane Valley City Council cancelled it last two meetings in November. The legislative body returns to its regular Tuesday meeting schedule Dec. 4 with a study session. The City Council is scheduled to vote on recommendations made by Spokane Valley's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee in December, which once again didn't include Valleyfest and the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. The city is preparing for snow, posting a bulletin of helpful winter weather tips on its website and reminding residents of how plowing is handled when a storm arrives. A map of plowing priorities as well as a link to real-time plowing progress is available on the city's website. For more, visit www.spokanevalley.org and click the "snow info" graphic. The city spent time ironing out the wrinkles and advocating for the need of its Sullivan Road Bridge replacement project. Replacing the span over the Spokane River will cost nearly $20 million, and the city held a session with local lawmakers earlier this month to educate about the need and appeal for funding. The project is also on the annual list of legislative priorities that the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce and Greater Spokane Inc. advocate for in Olympia. After weeks of discussion, the City Council passed its 2013 budget at its Oct. 30 meeting. In doing so, the city established a new capital reserve fund and funded it with nearly $8 million. Among the likely candidates to receive funding from the account are the Sullivan Bridge replacement project and a future expansion of Balfour Park. Several citizen law enforcement volunteers were honored during annual SCOPE awards. Among those earning lifetime achievement awards were Ruby Emerson and longtime University SCOPE volunteers Arlene Severance and
news the late Dick Ott. Most Valuable Volunteer of the Year awards went to Dot Burdette (University), Ray Baesler (Liberty Lake), Marilyne Rider (East), Ray Westlake (Southeast) and June King (West Valley). Spokane Valley Police Chief Rick VanLeuven was also honored with an appreciation award for continued SCOPE support.
CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE Complied by Craig Howard
The city has until Dec. 31 to approve its budget for 2013, although some at City Hall — like Finance Director R.J. Stevenson — have mentioned Dec. 4 as a target date for City Council approval. Sales tax ($1.94 million) and property tax ($1.85 million) are projected as the primary revenue sources for Liberty Lake's fiscal programming next year under Mayor Steve Peterson's proposed budget. Along with a Winter Festival outside City Hall scheduled for Nov. 30, the city will sponsor horse-drawn carriage rides on Dec. 7 and 14. The expanded route will include an illuminated jaunt past participating homes in the Liberty Lake Christmas Light Tour. The city currently contracts with Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service (SCRAPS), but is considering other options for its animal control services in 2013. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. Representatives of City Council forwarded 30 inquiries about the preliminary budget for 2013 to Mayor Steve Peterson and other members of city staff as part of a new program known as "MBQ," or "Mayor's Budget Questions." The approach, according to Peterson, has helped him and municipal employees "give council complete, detailed answers" as the city strives for transparency in the budget process. It was announced that Rocky Hill Park in Liberty Lake will host the start of the Windermere Marathon next May. Over 500 runners are anticipated to gather on the grounds for the beginning of the 26.2-mile trek that concludes in Spokane's Riverfront Park. The marathon route includes 7.6 miles through Liberty Lake city limits with passing views of landmarks like Pavillion Park. Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District General Manager Lee Mellish announced plans for a memorial to honor longtime LLSWD commissioner Frank L. Boyle. Boyle was in his 20th year of service with the district when he passed away on Sept. 28. Meanwhile, commissioners were in the process of interviewing five applicants to replace Boyle at press time.
CITY OF MILLWOOD Complied by Valerie Putnam
Company Ballet and Santa Claus
himself are among those expected on hand for Millwood's sixth annual Christmas Tree Lighting event Dec. 7. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. Residents of Millwood can lower energy usage this winter by participating in Sustainable Works, a non-profit energy efficiency program. Sustainable Works offers $95 home energy audits. For more information about the program, visit www. sustainableworks.com or call (509) 4433471. Millwood Better for Business is negotiating with Artist Melissa Cole for city street art. The group plans to pursue grants for funding of the project. Twenty-one people dropped off 194 tires during the Department of Ecology Waste Tire Removal event held Oct. 26. Millwood Art Gallery moved to a new location Nov. 1. Owner Teresa Antosyn is now located at Riverwalk Boutique & Gifts, 1003 E. Trent, with her art glass. Millwood City Council voted on a resolution for the 2013 Revenues and Property Tax Levy during its November meeting. The city's assessed property value is estimated to decrease, leaving the City an estimated $3,464 less in revenue next year.
TOWN OF ROCKFORD Compiled by Heidi Scott
Dec. 1 will be a busy day for Rockford. The Methodist Church is holding its annual bazaar from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Behind the church, the Rockford Community Center is open the same hours with craft vendors. Fairfield, 6 miles south of Rockford, is sponsoring an old-fashioned Christmas event the same day in its community center. Also Dec. 1, the Rockford Lion's Club is offering an alternative to mall lines. Children can visit Santa at the Rockford Lion's Club at 1 p.m. and enjoy treats and free pictures. Community Christmas caroling takes place the following day in the park at 2 p.m. Hot drinks and cookies are offered along with a chance to help trim trees around the park. Two church services will be held on Christmas Eve. The Methodist Church will hold a service at 6:30 p.m., and St. Mary's Catholic Church will have mass at 8 p.m. About 40 people attended the third annual Veterans Appreciation Potluck on Veterans Day. A local veteran and his daughter shared their recent experience on the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Three generations of veterans were honored and given an opportunity to share why they chose to serve in the military. A property tax increase and an EMS levy were adopted by Rockford's Town
Council. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. The Spokane Regional Solid Waste System held a chipping event in Rockford and neighboring communities.
CENTRAL VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT Compiled by Josh Johnson
The near-finishing touches on construction of the new Spokane Valley Tech campus are expected to be completed in December as students ready to move in January 2013. Central Valley is the host district among the four greater Spokane Valley school districts leading the development of the school. CVSD officials reported in November that construction is on schedule. The school board will decide on levy certification for 2013 at its Nov. 26 meeting. CVSD Superintendent Ben Small said at the board's Nov. 13 meeting that the district will likely be seeking an increase in levy collection that is commiserate with its enrollment growth, which is about 2 percent. The decisions surrounding the school board's annual change of leadership positions will take place in December. The five board members will determine the 2013 leadership positions of board president, vice president and legislative representative. The school board and city of Liberty Lake worked out an agreement so that a middle school site located next to Liberty Lake Elementary School can be developed with recreational fields before CVSD is ready to build a school there. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. CVSD published its annual District Report Card and is distributing it to the community. The yearly release measures the district's progress on achieving its strategic plan. Nearly 200 business leaders, elected officials, community partners, parents, employees and interested residents attended one of seven Community Connections breakfasts held at different district schools in early November. The theme of the events was "Career and College Ready." The event featured information and conversation between guests and students, a presentation by Superintendent Small and then presentations by students and staff from the host school regarding programs and achievements corresponding to the theme.
FREEMAN SCHOOL DISTRICT Compiled by Jim Ryan
The Freeman PTSA "Freeman Craft Night" is 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 30 and is open to all Freeman Elementary students. The
See 3 UP, 3 DOWN, page 10
The Current
December 2012 • 9
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10 • December 2012
Highlights from your Chamber 3 UP, 3 DOWN Valley Chamber holds Annual Meeting November 30 at 11:30 a.m. Mirabeau Park Hotel 1100 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley "Like Us" is the theme for the Valley Chamber's Annual Meeting. The presentation, featuring Frank Kenny as keynote speaker, will help attendees discover the tools and steps necessary to integrate social media into their KENNY businesses. Topics include incorporating social media into your customer relationship management (CRM) system, social media technology costs, social media benefits for all departments, ROI, risks to privacy and reputation and more. Frank Kenny is the leading authority on social media in the Chamber of Commerce industry. As a faculty member for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management, Frank instructs on integrating strategic technology solutions as well as technology tools and trends. He also is the author of
Upcoming Chamber events
November 21, 3 p.m., Office closes through end of week for Thanksgiving holiday. November 27, 5 to 7 p.m., "Meet the Chamber" Member Reception, location TBA. Certificate presentations at 6 p.m. November 30, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Annual Meeting and Business Connections Lunch. See additional information above. December 4, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Government Action Committee meeting, Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission, Spokane Valley. Program: State Legislative Priorities for 2013. Cost: $20.00 (includes lunch); register at spokanevalleychamber.org. December 6, 4:30 to 7 p.m., Holiday Social, Valley Chamber office. See additional information above. December 12, 5 to 7 p.m., "Meet the Chamber" Member Reception, Quality Inn Valley Suites, 8923 E. Mission Ave, Spokane Valley. Certificate presentations at 6 p.m. There are at least a dozen reasons to attend on 12-12-12! December 20, noon, Transportation Committee meeting, Longhorn BBQ, 2315 N. Argonne, Spokane Valley. Program: Joe Tortorelli will go over the proposed revenue package for the 2013 Legislative Session from the Transportation Commission. December 21, 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley.
two books, including the newly released, "Get Up To Speed, Social Media for Chambers." As President/CEO of a regional Chamber, he led a team in doubling the membership of that 45-year-old organization primarily through strategic social media solutions. Registration, which includes lunch, is $40 for members and their guests or $50 for non-members. A reserved VIP Table is $400, which includes 8 seats plus signage. Register at spokanevalleychamber.org. Thank you to our major sponsors:
Public invited to Holiday Social December 6 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Chamber Office 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane (lower level) Liberty Lake
The public is invited to a party to kick off the holidays at the Chamber office in the lower level of the Liberty Square building in Liberty Lake. In addition to festive food and drink, music and holiday cheer, there will be an opportunity to shop for unique gift items in Santa's Showcase. Showcase tables are available to Valley Chamber members only to sell gifts or holidayrelated items. Space is limited, and members may reserve for $50 each by calling the office at 924-4994. Business Connections Breakfast "Season of Sharing." Cost: $25 for members and guests, $35 for non-members. Hear from local charities, donate to their causes, and bring an unwrapped toy for the Marines' Toys for Tots program. December 24 to January 1st, Chamber office will be closed. Office re-opens January 2. Be sure to check our website at spokanevalleychamber.org for more details and updates.
New members
Please join us in welcoming the following members who have recently joined the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce: A & B Motors Avenue Dental Care: Dr. Navdeep Virk and Dr. Warren Mitchell Brett's Clipper & Shears Barber Shop Creative Outdoor CSK Communications, Inc CW Products Emergency Management Specialists, LLC Floor Coverings International Fresh Start Auto Sales Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches Northwest Business Development Association Smooth Transitions of the Inland Northwest, LLC Summit Electric, LLC
1421 N. Meadowwood Lane • Liberty Lake, WA 99019 • Phone: 509 924-4994 www.spokanevalleychamber.org
Continued from page 8
PTSA has put together some fun crafts for the event, including bringing back the popular "pet snakes." One item that is still needed for the event is 24- to 26-ounce glass jars with lids. Facilities Manager Kirk Lally reported to the school board that irrigation has been winterized and snow removal equipment is ready to roll. The security system in the middle school is being upgraded so that the entire campus will be on one system. The next school board meeting for the Freeman School District is 6 p.m. Nov. 27 in the K-8 Multi-Purpose Room. The PTSA board recently announced the recipients of the fall grants. A total of about $800 was awarded to teachers, counselors and therapists in the elementary, middle and high schools. Each fall and spring, the Freeman School District staff members are invited to submit requests for classroom grants of up to $100. The recipients are listed in the October PTSA newsletter. Nutrition Services Supervisor Raeann Ducar reported recently about strides made in food service in the district, including closing the gap between revenues and expenses. See this entry on the artistic map on pages 6-7. Freeman High School saw at least 75 students show up for the PSAT test Oct. 20. The PTSA provided two volunteer proctors, Dana Condrey and Lisa Paternoster, to assist counselor Laura Hamma.
WEST VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT Compiled by Jim Ryan
Centennial Middle School is in the second year of a six-year GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) grant. The grant serves all 189 students currently enrolled in the eighth grade and will follow the students through graduation. The program provides an after-school enrichment program, quarterly family nights, college campus visits, summer activities and more. West Valley City School is inviting the community to join students in a special recycling project. Used clothing, household items, stuffed animals, tattered books, broken toys, games with missing pieces, single shoes — it's all recyclable. Donations can be placed in the collection house on the City School parking lot. Contract Based Education will soon share a building with Spokane Valley Tech. Students and staff are being patient as construction continues
The Current
on the remodel of the vacant portion of the building. Area high school students choose to attend Spokane Valley Tech to gain technical skills and experience in growing industries with a focus on career and college readiness. Students will begin attending Spokane Valley Tech in January; the new campus takes up the western portion of the building, and Contract Based Education will continue to be housed on the eastern side. Ness Elementary is adorned with a new electronic reader board. The Ness PTO worked hard over a three-year period to raise funds for the new sign. It cost close to $12,500 and is attached to the front of the school. The reader board is 9 feet long and 3 feet high and can display pictures, graphics and colors. The West Valley High School National Honor Society held a successful blood drive Oct. 26. Freshman Austin Yoakum will be featured in the Inland NW Blood Center ad campaign. Pasadena Park Elementary students are thrilled with the upgrade to their playground. The Pasadena Park PTO financed the much-needed equipment, including a big toy that has become the favorite new climbing outlet for students.
EAST VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT Compiled by Jim Ryan
Registration of seventh and eighth grade students for the College Bound Scholarships is currently under way. Parents can find eligibility guidelines and an online application at www.hecb.wa.gov/ collegebound. As part of the application, students pledge to prepare themselves for college. The East Valley High School Band Parents Association hosts the Winter Arts & Crafts Sale 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 1-2 at East Valley High School, 15711 E. Wellesley, Spokane Valley. Hundreds of East Valley students will perform in winter concerts throughout December. The performances begin Dec. 4 and take place almost daily in the district through Dec. 19, when East Valley High School's orchestra plays its holiday concert at 7 p.m. A district-wide choral assembly honored veterans Nov. 7. The East Valley High School girls volleyball team had a great season and competed recently at the state level for the first time in 15 years. The district also had two students qualify for state in cross country: Brittany Aquino finished third, and Scott Kopczynski finished 12th. The East Valley High School marching band scored success in November, placing third out of 11 bands in their division at the Auburn Veterans Memorial Marching Band Festival.
The Current
December 2012 • 11
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12 • December 2012
Railway station, paper mill led to Valley's first incorporated town
The Current
Valley of the sun A monthly series of historical chronicles providing a window into the past — and a connection to the heritage — of the communities that make up the Spokane Valley. February Dishman March Chester April Opportunity May Vera June Greenacres July Saltese August Spokane Bridge September East Farms/Otis Orchards October Trentwood November Orchard Avenue December Millwood
Photos courtesy of Spokane Valley Heritage Museum
By Bill Zimmer and Chuck King Spokane Valley Heritage Museum
In the early to late 1800s, the Spokane Valley floor was covered with bunch grass which provided well for Indian horses. The Spokane and Coeur d'Alene Indians caught salmon from the river, used large rocks for drying fruit and built sweat lodges where the paper mill now stands. There also was a race track where the tribes had horse races, probably where the Millwood School is located. In 1882, the Joseph Woodard family arrived from Kansas and settled in what is now the Millwood area. Joseph Woodard served in the Civil War from 1861 to 1864 in Company A, 9th Kansas Cavalry, before coming to the Valley. Other families soon followed and by the end of 1897, six families were living in the area. When the Spokane Railroad Company planned an electric rail line through the valley, Seth Woodard and his father encouraged them by offering free right-of-way passage through their land. The railroad, in return, built Woodard Station on the edge of Seth Woodard's property. The first suburban telephone line was solicited by Seth Woodard and installed in 1906 by the Pacific Telephone Company. Woodard and the nine other subscribers agreed to five-year contracts with the company. As development continued in 1908, a road was built across the valley from Sprague to Upriver Drive. That road later became known as Argonne Road in memory of the World War I Battle of the Argonne Forest in France. In 1909, the first steel bridge was built at Millwood linking both parts of the road. Also in 1909, a headline in the Spokane daily paper announced the plans for a million-dollar paper mill. W.A. Brazeau, passing through the area on his way from Wis-
Above: This circa 1930s photo of Millwood was taken north of the Spokane River. The building that now serves as Bethany Place assisted living facility is evident in the upper right of the photo. At left: The Inland Empire Paper Mill locomotive hauls logs to the paper mill in this circa 1920s photo. consin to an "Exposition" in Seattle, saw the local paper and stopped to look over the situation. When the original plan fell through, Brazeau presented the idea of developing a paper mill to the Nekoosa-Edwards Paper Company in Wisconsin. Within a year, construction began with capital from NekoosaEdwards and the Inland Empire Company. By 1911, the mill was producing paper. As the paper mill grew, attracting local workers as well as workers from Wisconsin, it was decided that the area known as Woodard Station needed a new name. The accepted name was Millwood, combining the mill and Woodard. By that time, other commercial ventures had been initiated in the immediate Millwood area, including a restaurant, lumber yard, general store, barbershop, hotel, cement factory (1912), post office (1915) and a bank (1920). A school was opened in 1912. A few years later, the students from Orchard Park were moved to the Millwood School which became Millwood High School after an approved curriculum was developed. In 1925, a new "West Valley High School" opened at the corner of Trent and Argonne. Millwood displayed many of the characteristics of a company town, but it was much more than that, as is evident through the many businesses which were devel-
oped by various entrepreneurs. The Inland Empire Paper Company purchased land and offered lots for sale, encouraging their employees to build homes. The company also established a home-loan fund and offered construction ideas and architectural plans from house plans and pattern books. They even laid rails to the development area in order to bring in a steam shovel to dig basements. Between 1920 and 1928, many homes were constructed using a variety of architectural styles. Building materials of lumber, cement, granite and an assortment of clay products were available within a few miles of Millwood. In 1927, following a favorable 75-5 vote by the residents, Millwood became the only incorporated town in the valley. Waldo Rosebush, who was the general manager of the paper mill during the period in which most of the Millwood buildings were constructed, influenced the development and design of many of the homes and businesses in the area. The design of his own home is considered to be the most unique and imaginative in Millwood. It is said that he came up with the exterior design after observing houses in France while serving in the Army in World War I. Though he was a manufacturer, historian and gun collector, he is probably best known locally for his
historical writings and for editing two series of articles which appeared in The Spokesman Review under the title, "The Valley of the Sun." Most of the homes in Millwood historic district were completed by 1928. To give further identity to the neighborhood, oak and maple trees were planted along Dalton Avenue. The paper mill donated land for a church and on their own grounds developed a park, a swimming pool and a gazebo used for the performances of the mill's "Paper Makers Band." In the 1930s and 1940s, businesses in Millwood and the paper mill remained fairly static. During that period several Spokane Valley banks failed, but the Spokane Valley State Bank in Millwood remained solvent. During the 1950s, several new houses were built and businesses added. However, when Argonne Valley Shopping Center opened in 1960, some Millwood businesses moved to the new shopping center while others simply closed. In 1978, seven of Millwood's 28 commercial spaces were vacant. As the other malls and strip malls opened, Argonne Village was also negatively impacted. Today, Millwood's commercial space is well used and limited parking has been improved through street widening. Millwood is unique in many ways but especially through the showcase quality of its historic buildings. When homes in the historic district are put on the market, they often sell within days. After 100 years of operation, the Inland Empire Paper Company is still producing paper in a modern stateof-the-art plant. Bill Zimmer is a retired educator and former West Valley School District board member, and Chuck King is a Spokane Valley historian. Additional items about the history and culture of Millwood—or any of the communities in the Valley of the Sun series—are available in the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum archives, 12114 E. Sprague Ave. For more information, call 922-4570 or visit www.heritagecenter.org.
The Current
December 2012 • 13
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The Current
14 • December 2012
Shifting gears while maintaining its charitable mission Nonprofit Spotlight: Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels
Greater Spokane County
Meals on Wheels
By Craig Howard
Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels Executive Director Pam Almeida and longtime volunteer Lowell Brocklehurst prep for another delivery.
Current Contributor
As the lunch hour approached on a frosty, overcast day in Spokane Valley last month, Lowell Brocklehurst turned up his coat and braved the late autumn chill to make sure his neighbors had a hot meal. For well over two decades, Brocklehurst has been hauling containers of lasagna, roasted turkey and Salisbury steak over Valley roads as a volunteer with the local branch of Meals on Wheels. He generally delivers to around a dozen stops, a mobile diner with the hospitality to match. "It's a good way to spend my time in retirement," Brocklehurst said. "I enjoy the clients. We usually have a little chat." For years, Brocklehurst and other drivers donated their time under the umbrella of Spokane Valley Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit agency that traced its roots to a youth group at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church that began delivering meals to halfa-dozen seniors in November 1973. It's been almost two years since the organization morphed into Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels, a change that took place when it outbid the Spokane Regional Health District to administer the Senior Nutrition program through an agreement with Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington. "We went from a subcontractor to a contractor," said Pam Almeida, the agency's executive director for the past 13 years. "We went from serving the Valley to serving the entire county. It's changed from the three of us running the program to 29 employees." The transition meant preparing and delivering over double the previous number of meals. When the contract began, the agency was responsible for 600 meals a day between delivered routes and congregate lunch sites. That number is now closer to 900. To qualify for the program, clients need to be over 60, disabled or homebound. "There are more people in need," Almeida said. "We have 29 routes with many of them maxed out. The demand in the city of Spokane has grown a lot more. I'm seeing more desperate people than ever before … people living in tents and cars." Add in frozen lunches and liquid nutrition, and Almeida and her team are now churning out around 25,000 meals a month. Routes go east to the state line, west to Cheney, north to Deer Park and as far south as Rockford. The agency also provides free bus passes to over a dozen permanent lunch sites across the county. Wherever a lunch
Current photo by Craig Howard
is served, Almeida says it "goes toward our main goal of helping people stay in their homes." Volunteers and donations have been central to the success of the program from the beginning. Currently, Almeida said the agency is appealing to the community for both. "There are some routes now where we're doing frozen meals because we don't have enough volunteers," she said. "Our staff has to leave the office and drive the downtown (Spokane) area. As a volunteer, you can drive once a week or once a month. We also need donations. Right now, we're serving 25 percent more people than we anticipated." Jane Seaboldt began at Meals on Wheels a month before Almeida started. She served for years as volunteer coordinator and is now assistant director. She said those who donate their time to the cause quickly realize it's about much more than dropping off a lunch. "It's work that makes you feel appreciated," Seaboldt said. "You're helping to feed someone that needs a meal and then taking a minute to tell them, 'Have a good day.' It's very rewarding." Seaboldt and Almeida have a bevy of heartwarming stories from over the years, starting with a client in Otis Orchards who was stranded in a mobile home without water one harsh winter and relied on the meals to stay alive. Another senior in Greenacres had nothing but a lawn chair until volunteers rallied to furnish his home. There are many other accounts of volunteers spotting something amiss, calling 911 or connecting clients to advocacy groups like Elder Services or Adult Protective Services. "For a third of our clients, this is their only meal of the day," Almeida said. "For many more, the volunteer is the only person they see that day. These home-delivered
meals are their lifeline." Less than a quarter of clients cover the recommended donation of $3.50 per meal. Around 60 percent pay a portion while no compensation is received from the rest. No one is turned away for inability to pay. "We send out statements once a month but don't rebill them if they don't pay," Almeida said. "That's where we need donations to fill that gap." The agency's efforts have won acclaim from groups like Greater Spokane Inc. and the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, which have each honored Meals on Wheels with their respective "Nonprofit of the Year" awards. The organization has also done its part to alter what Almeida calls "the stigma of Meals on Wheels food." A cozy restaurant called the "Silver Café" opened in north Spokane earlier this year, serving the same fare on delivery routes. The agency also runs a popular catering service and operates its own kitchen. "That's the whole idea behind catering and the Silver Café, is that it's good, healthy food," Almeida said. "I'm not hearing about those stereotypes nearly as much. People we've catered to are amazed that this is the same food we give to our clients. It's low salt, low fat, healthy food. It's home cooking." Last October, Meals on Wheels moved its headquarters from a small space on Dishman-Mica to a spacious venue in the nowabandoned University Center on Sprague Avenue near Pines Road. Almeida said the transition was a good one. "There's good light, good parking and the volunteers like the centralized location," she said. "Plus, we got a better deal on rent." While the new home office has made a difference, it's the sprawling network of carry-out service that continues to define the mission here. For Almeida, the rewards
Volunteer Volunteers deliver meals to elderly and disabled neighbors between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is a critical need for volunteers who are able to even commit to once a week or once a month. Donate More than 80 percent of clients live at or below the poverty level, and most cannot cover the suggested meal donation of $3.50. Help make up the gap by sending a donation to GSC Meals on Wheels, PO Box 14278, Spokane Valley, WA 99214 or by donating through the website. Receive meals Schedule home delivery at 924-6976 or visit a Silver Café Senior Lunch Program location and dine with others. Among the Valley-area locations: • Appleway Court: 221 S. Farr Road, Spokane Valley, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday • Edgecliff Senior Center: 6903 E. 4th, Spokane Valley, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday • Liberty Lake City Hall: 22710 E. Country Vista Drive, Liberty Lake, noon Monday and Wednesday • Opportunity Presbyterian Church: 202 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley, 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday • Otis Orchards Elementary School: 22000 E. Wellesley, Otis Orchards, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday • Spokane Valley Senior Center: 2426 N. Discovery Way, Spokane Valley, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday For more Call 924-6976 or visit www.gscmealsonwheels.org. are as diverse and nourishing as the weekly menu. "I like knowing that I'm feeding people," she said. "I like knowing that I'm making a difference in people's lives. Our volunteers are the best group of people I've ever met and so are the clients."
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Where to dine, What to buy and hoW to thrive through the holidays
S p o k a n e V a l l e y • l i b e r t y l a k e • M i l lwo o d • r o c k f o r d • o t i S o rc h a r d S • n e w M a n l a k e • V a l l e y f o r d Advertising supplement to the splAsh And the Current
2 • december 2012
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Happy Holidays, Spokane Valley! Welcome to the first-ever "Eat, Shop and Be Merry" holiday guide. Consider this a road map to spending the holiday season in the greater Spokane Valley. Check out the articles and advertisements on the following pages to be inspired with great gift ideas, practical tips and some succulent dining experiences that will help you pave the perfect road to 2013.
Where did we find 99 ideas? Like a young boy writing his annual letter to Santa, the hardest part of putting together a guide like this is putting down the pencil. The list of great eats, buys and tips for the holidays in the Valley is truly endless, and this effort is in no way exhaustive. What we did include was many of our own ideas and favorites, and we also sought help from friends around the community and on Facebook (thanks to those who responded to our recent inquiries with feedback). As this special guide is an advertising supplement, we also worked to connect our partner businesses with local consumers by asking them for ideas to share with you.
As such, there will be no plugs on the following pages for amazon.com. As much as online commerce has its place, we always encourage readers to support local merchants, restaurants and organizations first. We share a common goal of maintaining and building upon the amazing community that is the greater Spokane Valley, and we can't forget how important support from one another is to that pursuit. We hope you put this inaugural guide to good use. And as always, share your feedback and ideas at the email address below. Wishing you a season of wonder, joy, peace and love,
Josh Johnson
Publisher, The Splash and The Current firstname.lastname@example.com
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december 2012 • 3
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4 • december 2012
33 taste-bud pleasers
A terrific Thanksgiving, a merry Christmas and a happy New Year may mean different things to different folks, but there are a few ingredients to a winning holiday season that are universal. Spending time with loved ones is likely one of them. Spending time with loved food has got to be another. Whether they are already holly-jolly staples of your diet or fresh concepts for your palate, you owe it to your stomach to consider the following 33 taste-bud pleasers.
Chicken Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Description: A great dish for taking your time or eating on the "express," this can also be ordered as a "party pan" for a family gathering or holiday get-together. Where to find it: Noodle Express, 707 N. Sullivan Road
Eggs Benedict
Description: This classic eggs served with sliced ham and overlapped with Hollandaise sauce is one of many can't-go-wrong breakfast items at this four-year-old morning stop.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Description: A delicious way to warm up the winter, this popular menu item is an everyday bargain for $7.95 at Palenque Mexican Restaurant. The restaurant's famous margaritas represent another attractive option.
Where to find it: Cottage Café, 6902 E. Appleway Blvd.
Where to find it: Palenque Mexican Restaurant, 1102 N. Liberty Lake Road
Description: Lovers of the chicken wing are passionate about the best spot to net them, and our informal Facebook survey suggests you try out Flamin' Joes.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Description: Old European left the Valley, but when Little Euro returned this year, so did the famous Monte Cristo sandwich: thin sliced ham, turkey and Swiss melted between slices of French toast.
Where to find it: Flamin' Joes, 11618 E. Sprague Ave.
Where to find it: Little Euro, 517 N. Pines
Description: Delicious dish at a place where it's hard to find anything else: Hay J's Bistro in Liberty Lake. Several Facebook folks gave a shout-out for this place that famously succeeds despite sharing a parking lot with a gas station. The halibut was a consistent top-tier selection among many suggestions, so the hunch here is to go with your hunch. Where to find it: Hay J's Bistro, 21706 E. Mission Ave.
Argentinean Fish Tacos
Description: Another suggestion from Facebook-land, this item from the appetizer menu serves up enough to be the main course, standing out from an already robust and taste bud-pleasing menu.
Where to find it: Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar (Spokane Valley Mall)
Grilled Salmon
Parmesan Crusted Halibut ChiCken TorTilla Soup/palenque MexiCan reSTauranT
Tullamore Dew Whiskey Steak
Description: Take an 8-ounce sirloin and smother it with mushrooms sautéed in a homemade Irish Whiskey sauce. The result (with salad, mashed potatoes and garlic toast) is a fine O'entrée.
Where to find it: O'Doherty's Irish Pub, 11723 E. Sprague Ave.
General Tso's Chicken
Description: This staple of the Chinese menu served up a Facebook battle, with both Ding How (along with some sushi) and Peking Palace suggested. Let the battle of the Asian-inspired taste buds begin.
KFC may have the Colonel, but the Chinese will forever keep us coming back — and fighting — over the General. Where to find it: Ding How, 1332 N. Liberty Lake Road; or Peking Palace, 11110 E. Sprague Ave.
Description: Still a bit of a whipper-snapper in the U-City Shopping Center, Darcy's has already won over many regular diners with dishes like this filet of King salmon they grill over an open flame and tuck onto a bed of rice pilaf. They also have daily food and drink specials during a 3 to 7 p.m. happy hour.
Where to find it: Darcy's, 10502 E. Sprague Ave.
See EAT, page 6
Crab Ravioli
Description: This is chive pasta stuffed with crab and ricotta. This is tossed with sherry cream sauce with caramelized red onions. This is highly recommended order at a classy Spokane Valley establishment. Where to find it: Ambrosia Bistro and Wine Bar, 9211 E. Montgomery Ave.
grilled SalMon/darCy'S
december 2012 • 5
Join us for the holidays! Open Year Round • Authentic Food • Superb Service • Fantastic Views
1102 N. Liberty Lake Road
at Trailhead Golf Course in Liberty Lake
(509) Serving
4 Since 199
Cheney Location: 20 Simpson Pkwy • 235-9010
6 • december 2012
EAT Continued from page 4
The Caruso's Club
Description: Fresh sliced turkey breast, hickorysmoked ham and bacon with Swiss cheese, served on a fresh baked "Caruso's Loaf" with your choice of fresh vegetables and condiments. Caruso's does other things well, too — pasta, pizza, catering, etc. — but the sandwich is its go-to work of art. Where to find it: Caruso's, 2314 N. Argonne Road
Restaurant Cheeseburger
Description: OK, OK, so this one is hard to pin down a favorite place, and it comes in many varieties. Three standouts from our informal polling are below, but ask enough folks and you'll get answers ranging from the McDonald's Happy Meal to the backyard grill. But since you might prefer to stay indoors this time of year …
Where to find it: Dave's Bar and Grill, 12124 E. Sprague Ave.; Frednecks Bar and Grill, 130 W. Emma St., Rockford; Barlows Family Restaurant, 1400 N. Meadowwood Lane, Liberty Lake
Fast-Food Cheeseburger
The CaruSo'S Club/CaruSo'S
Garlic Green Beans
Description: It's just one of many items to sample along the buffet line, but these green beans have been mentioned by several as a standout.
Where to find it: Avocado Buffet, 328 N. Sullivan Road
Country Fried Steak
Description: Clearly, there are many players in this game, too, but we have to tip our hats to a couple of local establishments mentioned among the recommendations. Zip's Papa Joe is a value burger served with ham often found on special at two for $3. And Ron's Big R is Spokane Valley classic. Where to find it: Zip's (multiple Valley locations); Ron's, 12502 E. Sprague Ave.
Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Description: A longtime friend of ours (and of the Valley), Sam Abrams, suggests this sandwich goes down best with a peanut butter milkshake and clam chowder. Where to find it: Chattee's Café and Drive Thru, 11923 E. Trent Ave.
Description: The classic dish smothered in white gravy with potatoes, vegetable, garlic toast and a salad. It fills you up just thinking about it, and Otis Grill is known for great portions and reasonable prices. They also do a free annual Thanksgiving meal, an incredible tradition started by a special lady. Ask them about it. Where to find it: Otis Grill, 21902 E. Wellesley Ave., Otis Orchards
Evan Williams Peppermint Chocolate Egg Nog
Description: Not for serving at the kids' table, this Southern-style egg nog blends tradition, holiday flavors and heritage in a special treat for the holidays. Made with genuine Kentucky bourbon, it offers
an inspired take on a holiday staple. Where to find it: Liberty Lake Liquor and Wine, 1326 N. Liberty Lake Road
Jenny's Kitchen Sink
Description: For the breakfast diner with an appetite, this one is a scramble of hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, green pepper, onions, sausage, bacon … you know, the kitchen sink.
Where to find it: Jenny's Café, 9425 E. Sprague Ave.
Cow Catcher
Description: You gotta love a sandwich with a catchy name. This one, believe it or not, could be made with chicken or roast beef and is grilled with red pepper, onion, garlic, mozzarella and teriyaki. Makes for a fine, fine lunch.
Where to find it: Iron Horse Bar and Grill, 11105 E. Sprague Ave.
Black Diamond Chicken Salad
Description: Add a kick to the traditional chicken salad at a place known for serving up some pretty great wings. The salad, topped with diced tomato, bacon
and cheddar jack cheese, includes the option for the chicken to be tossed in buffalo sauce. Take the option. Where to find it: The Black Diamond , 9614 E. Sprague Ave.
Sicilian Sandwich
Description: This is another one of those sandwich shops where, being a sandwich shop, they seem to have the concept down. This one is served hot and features pepperoni, ham, provolone, pizza sauce and mayo on French bread.
Where to find it: Casey's Place, 13817 E. Sprague Ave.
Beef Yakisoba
Description: This is a bit of a trick selection, because the real reason to go to Sushi Sakai is for, you know, sushi. A smart move is to bring someone who doesn't like sushi — a child with a small appetite comes to mind — and have them order this. While you eat your sushi, help them with their yakisoba. Best of both worlds.
Where to find it: Sushi Sakai, 11520 E. Sprague Ave.
See EAT, page 7
december 2012 • 7
EAT Continued from page 6
Wood FireRoasted Coffee
Description: The espresso drinks are truly made to order at this Valleyford attraction that also boasts "Cowboy Roast" drip brew. Also on site: Gift items, groceries, a breakfast and lunch menu and even a Christmas on the Palouse Craft Fair Dec. 1.
Where to find it: On Sacred Grounds, 12212 E. Palouse Highway, Valleyford
Gourmet Latte
Description: One Spokane Valley latte may stick out above the rest after a long morning of holiday shopping – one that can be accompanied by a massage or spa treatment.
Where to find it: BrickHouse Massage and Coffee Bar, 14222 E. Sprague Ave.
Thanksgiving or Christmas Rolls
Description: Sure, you could make your own. Unless it's your culinary expertise, however, you might leave it to the crew who has mastered the art by baking every morning.
Where to find it: Great Harvest Bread Co., 21651 E. Country Vista Drive, Liberty Lake
Seafood Omelet
Description: Came across this one in a recent post from a guy who knows as much about dining out in Spokane Valley as anyone: Craig Swanson of the Spokane Valley Scoop. You can't find a seafood omelet just anywhere, let alone one that receives high marks from someone who has eaten his share.
Where to find it: The Black Pearl, 2104 N. Pines Road
Frosted Orange Scone
Description: How to choose, how to choose. Those who have stared through the glass at the tasty options at Rocket Bakery understand: too many choices, not enough room in tummy oven. If you can't choose, may we recommend this favorite.
Where to find it: Rocket Bakery, 3315 N. Argonne Road, Millwood
Azteca Party Platter
Description: The person who shows up at a party with a platter of mini-chimichangas, quesadillas, flautas, taquitos rancheros and chicken tacquitos is a popular person indeed. You could be that person.
Where to find it: Azteca, Spokane Valley Mall
Dessert Empanada
Description: A huge dessert stuffed with choice of apples, bananas or cherries, the staff likes to point out it's an old Pig Out in the Park favorite.
Where to find it: Aracelia's II, 7905 E. Trent Ave.
Description: Advertised as the original Stromboli, Mike's Burger Royal has long been known for the popular order. It's also a worthwhile destination because of its staying power, having seen many similar establishments come and go through its decades in business. If you haven't been, it's definitely worth a trip to the northwest corner of the Valley. Where to find it: Mike's Burger Royal, 6115 E. Trent Ave.
Huckleberry Baby Back Pork Ribs
Description: It's no secret that eating at MAX at Mirabeau is for special occasions. If you aren't already celebrating one when you go in, order a dish like this one and it will feel like a special occasion by the end of the meal.
Where to find it: MAX at Mirabeau, 1100 N. Sullivan Road
Cobb Salad
Description: Greens topped with grilled chicken, bacon, bleu cheese crumbles, tomatoes, olives, sliced egg and avocado — and you can watch the game on a 160 square-foot HDTV. Where to find it: True Legends Grill, 1803 N. Harvard Road, Liberty Lake
AztecA Gift cArds The perfect gift for family, friends, co-workers or anyone on your special Holiday list.
AztecA PArty PAcks
Bring Azteca to your Holiday Home or Office Party! Azteca Fiesta Platter: $44.95 Azteca Quesadilla Platter: $39.95 7-Layer Bean Dip: $24.95 half / $49.95 full AND MORE!
AztecA's cAtering DepArtment is At your service! Please contact Carla Barajas @ 509.228.9661 or by email @ firstname.lastname@example.com Let me assist you with ALL your party planning needs! Viva Azzzzzzzzzteca!
8 • december 2012
World's Only Burn fat while drinking Fat-Burning coffee or tea — really! Coffee & Tea! By Bruce Weaver, MPA, PA-C Boresha InternatIonal, Inc.
Burning fat has never been SO EASY! Proven Science!
Order Now! Bruce Weaver: 509.464.3562 Independent Marketing Consultant
www.BCWeaver.bfreesystem.com 30-Day Money Back Guarantee
Is an eReader on your list?
Whether it's a Nook®, Kindle, Sony or iPad®, your library has you covered from set-up and technical help to book suggestions and check-out. Getting one or giving one, an eReader is a gift of life-long learning and knowledge. Stop by your library to find out more! www.scld.org
"Never in a million years did I think I would ever lose 96 pounds of fat in a yearand-a-half and keep it off just by drinking a great tasting coffee every day!" This statement by a 30-something was told to me recently as, near tears, she shared a story of being overweight most of her young life and gaining even more weight during a very unhappy marriage. The absolute elation she has felt since losing those extra pounds has driven her to share her story of finding out about a fatburning coffee called B-Skinny™ Coffee and simply drinking 2-3 cups of it every morning. From a size 20, she is now a slim size 6 and happily remarried. My son dropped off an individual packet of Boresha International's B-Skinny™ Coffee on my desk several months ago and asked, "Dad, this coffee says it's the 'world's only fat-burning coffee.' Can that be true?" Skeptical but intrigued, I researched the company carefully and discovered that the products the company offered were FDA "safe," that the majority of them had special patents allowing them to be called "low-glycemic" and "diabetic-friendly," and several were approved by the Human Sports Performance organization to assist individuals in improving exercise, no matter the level of intensity. And most importantly, the B-Skinny™ Coffee and NuvoGene Tea® were FTC-approved as "fat burning." The claim turned out to be true. Over the space of three months, both my wife and I lost stubborn inches and pounds that we had been working hard to lose for at least the past 10 years — just by drinking one or more cups of coffee (in my case, the ice tea) 30 minutes before breakfast and at least one cup/glass 30 minutes before lunch each day. It was effortless, and we purposely changed nothing else in our daily routines (our way of testing the products). We ate no special foods, drank no special shakes and continued to eat our regular foods. I continued my daily 3-mile walk. (My wife does not exercise at this point in her life.) None of these habits had changed my weight or hers by one pound until we started drinking the coffee (or tea) at least twice daily. My wife lost more slowly, typical of many women, but went down one dress size and has been ecstatic. She hasn't been that particular dress size in over 10 years! I went below a full pant size loss to a size I haven't been in 25 years. I've since met many individuals like the young lady above who have reported burning 50 or more pounds of fat
within one year simply by consuming two (or more) cups of B-Skinny™ Coffee or NuvoGene Tea® each day. This was previously unheard of when I was in clinical practice at Fairchild AFB. During my research into Boresha International's products, I discovered that the B-Skinny™ Coffee is unique in its class. Not only are the coffee beans organically grown and harvested by indigenous Ethiopian farmers, the coffee beans are infra-red roasted in small batches by Boresha International here in the U.S. to preserve many healthful antioxidants. The thermogenic and fat-burning formula is added to the coffee during its roasting process. Thermogenesis is the body's way of generating heat from the calories it consumes or has stored in fat cells. The B-Skinny™ Coffee's most dramatic effect is on an individual's ability to utilize stored fat in generating heat and energy. In essence, sitting in front of a computer during the work week can result in a higher rate of burning fat as an individual consumes the B-Skinny™ Coffee or NuvoGene Tea®, thus helping to lose unwanted inches while preserving muscle mass and other cells. This is the reason behind the many success stories of individuals using Boresha International products who have tried many, many other ways of losing fat with temporary results at best. Now they have been successful in reducing dress and pant sizes dramatically using a habit they've already had for years — drinking a cup of coffee in the morning before breakfast and again just before lunch. Orders can be placed online at www.bcweaverbfreesystem.com or by calling 509464-3562 or 208-699-0657 for more information on the products or how to become an Independent Distributor to obtain the products at wholesale pricing. Boresha International offers a 30-day, money back guarantee to all retail customers. Lt. Col. (ret) Bruce Weaver was a Family Practice & Emergency Room Physician Assistant for over 25 years in the Air Force. He remains active as President and CEO of AAging Better In-Home Care, providing care to the elderly and disabled of North Idaho. In addition, he's also a full-time Independent Marketing Consultant for Boresha International and a resident of Liberty Lake.
PaId advertorIal
december 2012 • 9
GIFT BASKETS! cHRISTMAS GOODIES! STOCKING STUFFERS! Happy holidays! This is Ross from Great Harvest. If you're anything like me, December is a whirlwind of parties and presents. Allow us to simplify your season with a mouth-watering array of gifts and goodies for everyone on the list — including you (we won't tell). Order by phone or stop by today, and make the season scrumptious! 21651 COUNTRY VISTA DRIVE • LIBERTY LAKE
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• 24-Hour Care • Peaceful Home Setting Call tod • Friendly and for a tour oay f Adult Familour Compassionate Staff y Home! • Brand New, Move-In Ready
10410 E. 9th Ave. Spokane Valley, WA 99206
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Convenient - Welcome worldwide, wherever Visa debit cards are accepted. *Please review the Terms and Conditions relating to card replacement. Federally insured by NCUA.
10 • december 2012
33 'found it' gift ideas Finding the "just-right" gift for every person on your list is a daunting challenge. Each individual is unique, meaning the one-size-fits-all approach isn't going to cut it. Fortunately, merchants in the greater Spokane Valley understand that fruitcake isn't for everyone. They are here to help, and so are we with our next set of 33.
Debit Gift Card
Description: Want to give a cash gift? This is a step better, as it's replaceable if lost or stolen. This Visa card can be filled with any dollar amount.
Where to find it: Numerica Credit Union, 722 N. Sullivan Road
LEGO Friends
Texting Gloves
Description: Baby, it's cold outside, but that doesn't mean you have to shed your gloves to send a text message or swipe a smartphone. The metal wire woven into the thumb and pointer finger of these gloves works with any touch-screen device.
Where to find it: Treasure Trove, 12415 E. 1st Ave.
Custom Upholstery
Description: Restore that favorite chair, formal sofa or vehicle seat to its original glory, or check out a wide selection of other gifts and accessories.
Description: For those who are still under the assumption that LEGOs are a boys' domain, this series following the adventures of five LEGO girls are sold in purple boxes a safe distance away from the Ninjago sets. Where to find it: Toy stores everywhere
MINDS-i All-Terrain Robotics
Description: Hands-on, interchangeable construction kits allow kids and hobbyists to create and modify extreme vehicles and robots. The system is the invention of Mike Marzetta, who owns Altek in Liberty Lake. Where to find it: www.mymindsi.com
3 4
A Good Book
Description: Rather than be specific with a title, simply the reminder that there are literally books written for everyone makes this idea a reliable standby.
Where to find it: Barnes and Noble (Spokane Valley Mall area) or similar book stores
Description: Want to treat a special child in your life with a gift that won't tie them to the couch? Connect them to ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, gymnastics or cheerleading during the free registration holiday promotion. Classes are at the HUB Sports Center.
Where to find it: At your favorite gift store or online.
Peanut Butter Buckets Gift Box
Description: If your shopping for someone who likes peanut butter cups, wouldn't it stand to reason they would love peanut butter buckets?
Terra Firma Massage
Where to find it: Human Touch Massage Therapy, 807 N. Sullivan Road, Suite 2
gink.com and www.etsy.com/shop/ brushworkdesigns are two examples.)
Where to find it: KidFIT Spokane, www. kidfitspokane.com or 953-7501
Where to find it: Jacobs Upholstery, 16023 E. Sprague Ave.
Description: Pomegranate hot stone massage treats deep muscle tissue and relaxes the body. Currently on special for $50.
KidFIT Gift Certificate
5-Bottle Sampler
Description: Only available during the holidays, give five of Latah Creek's most popular wines in half-bottle sizes. Where to find it: Latah Creek Wine Cellars, 13030 E. Indiana Ave.
Goodie Basket
Description: Customize a gift basket with bread, cookies or other baked goodies.
Where to find it: Great Harvest Bread Co., 21651 E. Country Vista Drive, Liberty Lake
Description: Sometimes, it can be easy to forget that non-material gifts are even more important. Ellen Martin suggested via Facebook that the time we spend shopping can be redeemed for this purpose. "Bring a friend or two or three with you. Enjoy the journey as much as completing your gift list," she said.
Ski Passes
Where to find it: With a loved one.
Where to find it: Your mountain of choice
Note Cards
Description: Many shops feature cards created by local artists, or you can find the work of Valley residents online through their websites. (www.hugabu-
Description: The thirdhighest grossing movie of all time was the hit of the year, and it's not only on Blu-ray, but it's still in the action figure aisle, too. Where to find it: Pick a store, any store (pretty much)
Where to find it: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 506 N. Sullivan Road
Description: The season is upon us, and the Inland Northwest is blessed with a plethora of first-rate resorts.
The Avengers
Quelf Jr.
Description: Perfect for family game nights, this junior version of the popular and nonsensical board game brings out your creative side.
Where to find it: Uncle's (Spokane Valley Mall) or other toy stores
See GIFTS, page 12
december 2012 • 11
Kids 18 months and up
FRee Registration Holiday Special Gift Certificates Available
Ballet • Tap Jazz • Hip Hop Modern Dance Mom N' Me Gymnastics Cheerleading
Join Anytime!
www.kidfitspokane.com • 509.953.7501
Conveniently located at the HUB Sports Center 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake (off Barker Rd.)
TAKE On Friday 11/23 and Saturday 11/24, C l ot h i n g | h a n d bag s | J e w e l ry | a C C e s s o r i e s
613 S Pines, Spokane Valley, WA 99206
November 22 & 23:
closed for the Thanksgiving holiday
November 24:
OPEN for small business Saturday November 26 through December 22:
Open Monday - Saturday 10-5
buy OnE
gift certificate,
GET OnE
of equal value for free
Valid on $50, $100, $150 or $200 amounts
Holiday parties are around the corner ... look your best! november special: Diamond Photo-abrasion with Myolight Therapy and biosonix ultrasound, followed by collagen sheet mask $185 (reg. $285)
Text JEMALN to 63566 for a special discount 509.951.0506 807 n. Sullivan Rd, Ste 2 Spokane Valley, WA 99037
12 • december 2012
Skin Care Gift Card
Continued from page 10
A Cozy Sweater
Description: Tis the season to warm up fashionably, and sweaters are just the tip of the iceberg at Jema Lane Boutique for the "fashionista" on your list. The shop specializes in clothing, handbags and jewelry for "real women" from petite through extended sizes. Where to find it: Jema Lane Boutique, 613 S. Pines Road
Description: Many local theater groups, such as Interplayers and Spokane Civic Theatre, offer gift packs for future shows. Most, such as Liberty Lake Community Theatre, have scheduled December performances.
Where to find it: www.spokanecivictheatre.com, www.interplayerstheatre. com, www.libertylaketheatre.com or your performing group of choice
Description: Available throughout the season, picking this item up on Nov. 23 or 24 pays the greatest dividends. That's when you can double your purchase power with a buy one service, get a second one free promotion. Where to find it: European Diva Studio, 807 N. Sullivan Road, Suite 2
Gift Donation
Description: Every December, the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce's monthly breakfast focuses on area nonprofits, and businesses make gift donations to support our local charities. There are any number of worthy charities that could use gift donations. This is truly a gift "for the person who has everything."
holidays. Where to find it: Hurd Mercantile and Company, 30 S. First St., Rockford
Zags Red Wine & Glasses Gift Set
Description: A big red for a big school, the set includes two Riedel stem wine glasses made of no-lead crystal hand etched with the Gonzaga mascot. All packaged in an attractive gift box.
Where to find it: Liberty Lake Liquor and Wine, 1326 N. Liberty Lake Road
Description: Give some of the best coffee in the world and support a local effort to invest in the long-term sustainability of the Ethiopian communities where the coffee beans are harvested. Dominion Trading Coffee is a Liberty Lake-based effort that works with its nonprofit arm, the New Covenant Foundation, to build relationships and find solutions that change lives in Ethiopia's coffee-rich but economically poor Rift Valley. Coffee can be purchased online.
Description: Purified serum transforms eyebrows into youthful, natural eye-catching arches.
Description: The Airway Heights resort has concerts scheduled Dec. 27-29 and 31. Add an overnight and a meal and turn the event into a holiday getaway.
Where to find it: Tracy Jewelers, 106 N. Evergreen Road
Shock, Indians or Chiefs Tickets
Description: Offseason ticket promotions are going on for the Arena Football Shock and the baseball Indians, while the Chiefs are off to a great start in their season.
Where to find it: spokaneshock.com, spokaneindians.com or spokanechiefs. com
Where to find it: Northern Quest Resort and Casino, 100 N. Hayford Road, Airway Heights
Gift Cards to The Habitat Store
Description: Provide both that handy person on your list and Habitat for Humanity-Spokane with spending power. Gift cards $50 or greater are 20 percent off.
Where to find it: The Habitat Store, 3808 N. Sullivan Road, Building 10
Eclectic Home Decor
Description: A hidden gem of gifts housed in a historic downtown building, this self-proclaimed "unique and thoughtful gift mall" is stocked and ready for the
Description: Transform your living room with a complete selection of customizable furniture in a 20,000 square feet showroom. Special holiday sale pricing Nov. 23-25.
Description: Chic and glamorous, yet personal and unique, say "I love you" with this necklace, available in white or yellow.
New Living Room
Dominion Trading Coffee
Where to find it: Your charity of choice
Northern Quest Concert
Where to find it: Appleway Florist and Greenhouse, 11006 E. Sprague Ave.
Where to find it: Spencer's Furniture, 6404 E. Sprague Ave.
Where to find it: Riviera Tan & Spa Boutique, 1235 N. Liberty Lake Road
Lafonn Chantily Heart Necklace
in a metallic-embossed ceramic container. A great gift for the hosts of your holiday gatherings you can pick up at a Spokane Valley business that turned 60 this year.
Latah Creek Gift Baskets
Description: Customized or ready-to-purchase, a large assortment of baskets and other gifts are available at the Spokane Valley winery.
Where to find it: Latah Creek Wine Cellars, 13030 E. Indiana Ave.
Photo on Canvas
Description: Turn your favorite family photo into a canvas print. Custom sizes available.
Where to find it: Mountain Dog Sign Co., 24001 E. Mission Ave., Suite 40, Liberty Lake
Poinsettia Planter
Description: Celebrate the season with a gift for yourself or a loved one featuring vibrant red poinsettias seated
Where to find it: www.dominiontradingcoffee.com
Description: What do you get when you cross your stuffed animal with cutting edge Augmented Reality technology? The answer: MushABellies, a toy that is powered by the brain trust at Liberty Lake's Gravity Jack. Check out the online video for how it works. Where to find it: www.mushabelly.com
december 2012 • 13
Cut this ad. Cut the prices. Retreat and Indulge in complete relaxation. Purchase your Gift Certificates! Doors open 11/23 and 11/24 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
50 special
(regularly priced at 120)
Bring in this ad through December 24th to save 10% on gift shop items and 20% off wine cases. We make gift giving easy: • Pre-made or custom gift baskets • 5-bottle samplers (limited quantities) • Personalized wine labels
You can even sample our Hot Spiced Sangiovese while shopping.
Terra Firma Massage
Engage your senses with a soothing Pomegranate Hot Stone Massage in which warm basalt rocks are used to treat deep muscle tissue and relax the body. Including a Hydrating Hand or Foot Treatment.
Winery & Gift Shop
Open Daily 9am-5pm E. 13030 Indiana Ave. Spokane, WA 1-800-Latah-Creek • latahcreek.com
509.927.8599 807 N. Sullivan Rd. Suite 2 | Spokane Valley, WA 99037 www.humantouchwellnessmassage.com
stay up to date on
Facebook and Twitter
AlwAys the lowest Prices Financing Available OAC. Layaway, Visa, MasterCard, Discover
Open Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm, Sun. Noon-5pm
6404 E. Sprague 509.533.5200
14 • december 2012
Score a holiday home run! IF YOU GO ...
WHAT: The Habitat Store, a place to buy new and used building and home improvement materials at discount prices WHERE: 3808 N. Sullivan Road, Building 10, Spokane Valley WHEN: The store is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday WHY: There are countless reasons to shop at The Habitat Store. Here are a few: • Give back: Since its inception in 2000, The Habitat Store has raised enough money to build 15 homes and has diverted more than 3,000 tons of building material from the waste stream. All of the store's proceeds support Habitat for Humanity-Spokane, which has built 214 homes (and counting) for local families. • Great inventory: The always updating inventory usually includes doors, windows, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, appliances, paint, tile, hardware, roofing, fencing and much more. • Steep discounts: Purchase new materials at about 50% and used materials at about 25% of retail value. • Holiday specials: This season, score a gift card of $50 or more for the handy person on your list at 20% off.
HUMANITY Spokane
aHome for the Holidays Dedication Celebration
Monday, December 10th 2:00PM • 411 E I Street, Deer Park, WA
join us in celebrating the Shepard & Klyayn families as they receive the keys to their new homes!
3808 N Sullivan Rd, Bldg 10
Monday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (509) 535-9517
10% off your entire purchase
Exp. 1/31/13
TO DONATE OR VOLUNTEER: The store accepts donations of new and used building materials that are clean and in 100 percent working condition. Call 5359517 to schedule a free pick-up. Volunteer opportunities include customer service, sales, warehouse and office/ clerical. To learn more about this and other local Habitat for Humanity volunteer opportunities, call 534-2552 ext. 24.
Home improvement shoppers give and receive at Habitat Store A Spokane Valley store is making it possible for shoppers to help build homes for deserving neighbors while improving their own. Using an innovative and communityfriendly model, The Habitat Store offers a place for shoppers to find great deals on building and home improvement supplies that have been donated to the store. "We have builders and contractors who donate leftover supplies and corporations who give us discontinued items," explained Lisa Hamm, communications manager with Habitat for Humanity-Spokane. "From tile, lumber, windows, doors — if it has to do with building, we've got it." All of the proceeds from the store, which moved in April 2011 to its current location in the Spokane Industrial Park at 3808 N. Sullivan Road, Building 10, support Habitat for Humanity efforts. The Spokane affiliate of the international organization has been in existence for 25 years, during which time it has built homes for 214 families. That number will increase when two more families receive keys to new homes in a special ceremony in Deer Park on Dec. 10. Hamm said the recipients of Habitat homes enter into a partnership with the organization. The families are responsible for closing costs, must agree to give 500 hours of volunteer service to Habitat and pay off the cost of the home interest-free through a long-term loan. Far from a handout, Hamm said Habitat homes increase property values wherever they are built through pride of ownership. Habitat homes are also Northwest Energy Star rated, and The Habitat Store follows a similar model of environmental stewardship. Through donations to the store, Habitat steers good, reusable materials out of landfills — to the tune of 3,000 tons of building material reused rather than wasted since 2000. Whether it's building a home or helping out at the store, the need for volunteers is year-round, said Hamm, who is also the volunteer coordinator for the local Habitat. "You really do not have to have any type of building experience," she said. "We have contractors, and we have people who have never picked up a hammer before, so it's a wide range. We want everybody." The store, which also features some thrift store items, is a great destination for everyone from the person needing to do a small fix around the house to a "weekend warrior," Hamm said. Gift certificates are available, and those $50 or more can be purchased at a 20 percent discount through Christmas Eve, she added. PaId advertorIal
december 2012 • 15
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33 tips to survive thrive Contrary to popular belief, it's possible to make it through the holidays not only intact, but revitalized. Pick and choose from the following tips for ways to refresh and enrich your Christmas season.
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Indulge in the Christmas music
Get a makeover — for your car
This isn't the time of year to attack your vehicle with the garden hose and a bucket of suds in the front yard, but places like Mega Wash Express, 17316 E. Sprague Ave., are still in season. Don't allow the upkeep and tidiness of your vehicle to slip over teh winter months.
Plan a Staycation
Description: See Spokane Valley through the eyes of a visitor and stay a night in the Oxford Suites, 15015 E. Indiana Ave. Walk across the street to do some Christmas shopping at the Spokane Valley Mall, or just relax in a suite or soak in the hot tub. You don't have to go away in order to get away.
Take the family out to carve a Christmas tree
Not to get all Clark Griswold on you, but cutting down a Christmas tree for the season is a fun and fresh-smelling family activity. If it's not already a tradition, consider heading over to Carver Farms, 9105 N. Idaho Road in Newman Lake, to cut down a tree — and enjoy free hayrides, hot cocoa and cider while you're at it.
Peace of mind is a valuable commodity, so as you close out a hectic 2012, consider taking steps to make sure the new year will greet a healthy you. A stop at the Liberty Lake Medical Center, 2207 N. Molter Road, could include a thermography scan at Empire Digital Imaging and a stop to consider the health and wellness options available at Healthy Living Liberty Lake.
Pick up the tab for someone else's latte
Random acts of kindness are appropriate any time of year, but there are certainly ample chances to buy the coffee for the person behind you in the drive-thru during the month of December. Like the holiday spirit itself, generosity is a happy contagion.
Evaluate your health
"It's the most wonderful time of the year" for music, and if that's not your tune there are plenty out there in all genres. Customize a new playlist for the season and you'll find yourself swinging into the spirit.
Schedule silence
Utilize that gym membership
The weather, the food, the hectic schedules — all of it can add up to a recipe that has negative effects on your personal health. Combat that by utilizing a gym membership, setting goals and maybe even hiring a personal trainer at a place like Anytime Fitness, 23505 E. Appleway Ave. in Liberty Lake.
Attend a church service
Many local churches will be hosting special Christmas services for the season, and even the non-religious can appreciate the beauty and timelessness of the original Christmas story. When we asked Facebook followers for tips, Jean Simpson shared a simple response that received at least one amen: "Put Jesus first."
Go golfing — virtually
Some of the world's best courses can be played with your own set of clubs right here in the Valley — rain, snow or shine. Indoor Golf, 19223 E. Appleway Ave., has a realistic setup for serious and recreational golfers alike.
Throw an eco-friendly spa party
Spa party packages make a fabulous holiday get-together, and Spokane Valley's K Salon, 16823 E.
comes to eating and drinking during the holidays. If you need help getting control of your appetites, check into Weight Watchers, 12510 E. Sprague Ave., or find a coach through Take Shape for Life (www.tsfl.com).
Allow yourself 5-10 minutes each day to be silent. Whether it's in prayer, mediation or simply choosing to disengage from the chaos around you, the silence will help ground you in the other activities you engage in.
Be aware of your vitamin levels
With the short days of winter, many people living in the Northwest do not get adequate vitamin D that normally comes through sun exposure. On sunny winter days, bundle up and go outdoors to soak up vitamin D or consider a vitamin D supplement. Tour with your toothbrush
With a lot of sweet treats and holiday goodies, it's especially important to take care of those pearly whites. Keep a toothbrush and travel-size toothpaste handy for a quick cleaning after holiday parties.
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Get a haircut
Factor in the deductibles
Speaking in unfair but typical generalities, the ladies don't need to be reminded to be at their best during the holidays. That means guys, listen up. Chances are, you need a haircut. Seriously, when was your last one (self-trimming doesn't count)? Here's a tip: SportClips at Sprague and Sullivan is a great option. Get a dog (or cat)
The SCRAPS shelter, 2521 N. Flora, may be currently housing your future best friend. Break him out and bring him home for the holidays. Got milk?
No need to run to the store for milk or butter. The freshest milk and tastiest butter for baking holiday treats can be delivered to your doorstep. Call Spokane Milk at 724-0120 or visit www.spokanemilk.com.
Moderate the appetite Think moderation when it
Perhaps you've spent all year building up deductibles for your health or dental insurance, or maybe you have money remaining in a flex spending account that must be utilized. Schedule those appointments before the end of the year to take advantage of the savings. Sleep in heavenly peace
Get plenty of rest. If sleeping is a problem, consider consulting with your doctor, acupuncturist or massage therapist to evaluate options. Combat dry air
Break out the humidifier and keep the lotion handy, because your skin is likely drying out. Give back
Volunteer at Spokane Valley Partners, Meals on Wheels, Blessings Under the Bridge or a similar organization.
See TIPS, page 18
december 2012 • 17 Mon. through Sat. 7am to 6pm • Sun. 9am to 5pm
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18 • december 2012
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TIPS Continued from page 16
Support a cause you believe in
Whether its SCRAPS or a local art commission, your church or your college, a local nonprofit or Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, make a year-end gift to invest in something you are passionate about.
Whiten the whites
Coming Soon
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Choose gratitude
With all the parties and gatherings, smile brighter with teeth whitening from an office like Simonds Dental Group, 22106 E. Country Vista Drive.
Get a handle on your budget
For instance, one great place to start is to have a budget for your holiday shopping — and stick to it. Or attend a seminar like those put on by STCU to get a better grasp on your personal finances.
Invest in the care of a loved one.
The holiday season represents an appropriate time to explore the gift of loving and compassionate care for a loved one. Taking a tour of facilities such as Sunshine Adult Family Home, 10410 E. 9th Ave. in Spokane Valley, or Guardian Angel Homes, 23102 E. Mission Ave. in Liberty Lake, is a great place to start.
Check your tires
Clarks' Tire and Automotive, 16010 E. Sprague Ave., is a great option for making sure your tires — and the rest of the vehicle, is ready for winter.
This is a perfect time to take the advice of the hymn writer and "count your blessings, name them one by one." Enjoy seasonal treats
The supply of egg nog and gingerbread houses greatly diminishes by July. Enjoy them while they last. Appreciate your surroundings
You live here, so you have likely already experienced the outdoor beauty this time of year offers. Pause. Take it in, and don't take it for granted.
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Watch a classic
From It's a Wonderful Life, to the Grinch, and everywhere in between, take the opportunity to enjoy a holiday movie favorite. Drink in warmth
It's the season for cider and cocoa, of holiday teas and coffees. Enjoy a warm mug on a cold day. Learn to say 'no'
Don't accept every party invitation or attend every activity. Set boundaries, then prioritize your commitments and refuse to feel pressured into extra obligations.
Pay attention
2013 will be here in a blink. Redeem every moment by keeping your mind engaged by what's most important: the people you love.
Distributed for free with The Splash and The Current, the Eat, Shop and Be Merry Holiday Guide is possible because of its advertisers. Please consider them when offering your patronage this holiday season and beyond.
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december 2012 • 19
MVP or Jr/Sr MVP Haircut for New Clients • Valid ID Required
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The Current
December 2012 • 15 35
Calendar of Events COMMUNITY Nov. 30 | Liberty Lake Tree Lighting Ceremony 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Liberty Lake City
Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive. Events and vendor booths will take place throughout the evening, and the tree lighting ceremony is at 8 p.m. Pictures with Santa will be available until 7:45 p.m. For more: http://www.libertylakewa. gov/winterfest/
Dec. 1 | C.A.M.S. RC Swap Meet 7 a.m. to
2 p.m., Tri-Community Grange, 25025 E. Heather Lane, Newman Lake. RC Model aviation, cars and helicopters will be on display for swap or purchase in this second annual event. Beginners are welcome. Sellers: $5 per 4-foot table section. Admission is $5; children under 12 years are free. For more: firstname.lastname@example.com
Dec. 1 | Christmas on the Palouse 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m., various locations along Highway 27 in Fairfield, Freeman, Rockford, Rosalia and Valleyford. Bazaar featuring door prizes and free drawings. Pick up your passport to this shopping excursion in the country at On Sacred Grounds, 12212 E. Palouse Hwy., Valleyford.
Dec. 1 | Breakfast with Santa 9 to 11 a.m., CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley. Eat a pancake breakfast, have your picture taken with Santa and enjoy games, crafts and other activities. Proceeds benefit Rotary college scholarships, Rotary youth leadership awards and other Rotary service projects. Cost is $5 per person, and pre-registration is encouraged. For more: 688-0300 or parksandrec@spokanevalley. org Dec. 3, 10 and 17 | Pet Portraits with Santa Spokane Valley Mall, 14740 E. Indiana
Ave. Bring your dog or cat to Spokane Valley Mall to have its picture taken with Santa. Photo packages will be available for purchase. For more: 926-3700
Dec. 4 | So You've Written a Novel — Now What? 7 to 8 p.m., Spokane Valley Library,
12004 E. Main Ave. Sharma Shields, winner of the 2011 Autumn House Fiction Prize and author of "Favorite Monster: Stories" will speak about getting your work published — including finding outlets and submitting your work to publishers and contests. For more: email@example.com
Dec. 5 | Web Basics 2 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Learn what a browser is and how to use it, three ways to access a website and how to tell if a website is secure. Other topics include parts of a web address, different types of web pages, how to effectively use a search engine and web directory, and how to print only the pages you want. For more: 893-8400 Dec. 6 | T.W.I.N.E. 4 p.m., Spokane Valley
Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Teen Writers of the Inland Empire (T.W.I.N.E.) is a writing club for Spokane County students in grades 6 through 12. Participants write fiction and poetry and share work in an encouraging and positive environment. For more: teenwritersoftheinlandempire.blogspot. com
Dec. 8 | Funky Christmas Festival 1 to
4 p.m., The Kave, 4904 N. Harvard Road, Otis Orchards. This Christmas extravaganza will feature homemade gifts and crafts for sale, pictures with Santa and more. Proceeds from
the event will benefit Piti Piti, a non-profit organization focused on education, land renewal and job creation in Haiti. For more: www. kaleospokane.com or 954-4532
own Christmas tree, take pictures with Santa and purchase fresh fruits, food items, candy and wine. For more: www.greenbluffgrowers.com
Dec. 8 | Liberty Lake Holiday Ball 5 p.m.
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting Nov. 23. Carver Farms, 9105 N. Idaho Road, Newman Lake. Weather permitting, there will be free hayrides to the field, free hot cocoa and cider and free shaking and baling. For more: www. carverfarms.com
to midnight, Davenport Hotel, 10 S. Post St., Spokane. The 14th annual Liberty Lake Holiday Ball is an elegant evening with a champagne reception, 3 course dinner, silent and live auctions, and live music with dancing. The event is the sole fundraiser for Friends of Pavillion Park. Tickets can be purchased for $100 per person or $1,000 for a table of 10 at the Friends of Pavillion Park website, www.pavillionpark.org.
Dec. 8, 15 & 22 | Santa visits Appleway Florist & Greenhouse 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 11006 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley. For more: www. applewayflorist.com
Dec. 8, 22 | Spokane Novelists Group
Noon to midnight, Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave., Otis Orchards. Strong critiquing of fiction, novels and short stories only. Participants are requested to bring 6-8 copies of 5-10 pages to read to the group. Group meets second and fourth Saturdays of the month. For more: 8911695 or email@example.com
Dec. 11 | Build It Kid's Workshop 4 p.m.,
U-Cut Christmas Trees 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
MUSIC & THE ARTS Nov. 28 | 30th Annual Christmas Tree Elegance 5:30 p.m., The Davenport Hotel, 10
S. Post Street, Spokane. Spokane Symphony Associates' Christmas Tree Elegance will hold a tree-lighting ceremony to mark the beginning of its fundraiser. Twelve trees will be displayed on the mezzanine of The Davenport Hotel, while six trees will be located on the 2nd floor corridor of River Park Square. Raffle entry is $1 per ticket, and prize drawings will be held Dec. 8, 9:30 p.m. at The Davenport Hotel and Dec. 9, 4 p.m. at River Park Square. For more: www. symphonyassociates.org
Nov. 30 | "The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge"
p.m., Spokane Community College, Student Services Building 15, 1810 N. Greene Street, Spokane. Staff will cover all aspects of applying to and attending a Community Colleges of Spokane campus or rural education center — from financial aid to the steps for admission to choosing a transfer degree or career-oriented program of study. For more: 533-8020
7:30 p.m., Ignite! Theatre on Broadway, 10814 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. A year after his miraculous transformation, Ebenezer Scrooge is back to his old ways and is suing Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future for breaking and entering, kidnapping, slander, pain and suffering, attempted murder and the intentional infliction of emotional distress. RatedPG-13/R for language, the public is invited to join the jury for this twist on the Dicken's classic. Additional show times include 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 1, 6-8 and 14-15; 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 9 and 16. For ticket cost and more: www.ignitetheatre.org or 795-0004
Dec. 13 | Build It Kid's Workshop 4 p.m.,
Dec. 1-2 | EV Band Craft Fair 10 a.m. to
Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. The library provides the building materials, while kids provide the creativity and engineering know-how in the construction zone.
Dec. 12 | College Information Night 6
Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave., Otis Orchards. The library provides the building materials, while kids provide the creativity and engineering know-how in the construction zone.
Dec. 15 | Women's Self Defense Class 1-2 p.m., 101 N. Argonne Road, Suite B, Spokane Valley. Learn practical and applicable defense methods you could confidently use in an emergency. $10 per class. For more: 891-9821 or firstname.lastname@example.com Dec. 19 | Build It Kid's Workshop 4 p.m.,
Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Road, Spokane Valley. The library provides the building materials, while kids provide the creativity and engineering know-how in the construction zone.
Dec. 19 | Spokane Valley Library Book Club 2 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004
E. Main Ave. Discussion of "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith. Everyone is welcome. For more: 893-8400
Dec. 20 | Anime Club 4 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Monthly club meeting for anime fans in grades 6-12. For more: www. scld.org/anime.asp
Recurring Holiday Memories at Green Bluff Nov. 23 through Christmas, Green Bluff. Cut down your
5 p.m., 15711 E. Wellesley, Spokane Valley. Vendors still wanted. For more: www.evsd.org or 939-7805
Dec. 4 | Spokane Valley Quilters Guild
6:30 p.m. to midnight, Spokane Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway Ave. Group meets on even-numbered months with a potluck before the meeting. For more: 924-6320 or www. svqg.info
Dec. 7-9 and 14-15 | "Inspecting Carol"
7 p.m. (except 2 p.m. Dec. 9), Liberty Lake Community Theatre at The Kave, 4904 N. Harvard Road, Otis Orchards. "A Christmas Carol" meets "The Government Inspector" meets "Noises Off" in this hilarious hit from Seattle. A man who asks to audition at a small theater is mistaken for an informer for the National Endowment for the Arts. Everyone caters to the bewildered wannabe actor and he is given a role in the current production, "A Christmas Carol." Everything goes wrong and hilarity is piled upon hilarity. For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com or 342-2055
Dec. 15 | Christmas Craft Fair 9 a.m., Opportunity Christian Fellowship, 1313 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley. A variety of vendors will be on hand with Christmas items, jewelry, Pampered Chef, Avon and many other various crafts. Free admission. For more: 926-2673 or jeaton85@ gmail.com Dec. 18 | Music Together demonstration
9:30 a.m., Guardian Angel, 23102 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. Holy Names Music Center will host this free class to introduce new families to an early childhood music experience shared by an adult and children ages six months to 6 years. Reserve your space by calling 464-1595. For more: www.hnmc.org
Dec. 21 | Holiday Benefit Concert 8 p.m., The Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave., Spokane. Jonathan Mancheni and Isabella Ivy concert benefits Valley Veterans Center and Spokane Lilac Festival. Tickets are $25. For more: 535-4554
Recurring Rockford Crochet Class 10 a.m. to noon, Saturdays. Rockford Community Center, 229 S. First, Rockford. Stop in and stitch with other participants at the weekly crochet. Other types of craft, sewing, needle work also enjoyed.
CIVIC & BUSINESS Nov. 24 | Small Business Saturday
Founded by American Express, this day was created to encourage people to support local small businesses nationwide. To find participating businesses or for more: www. americanexpress.com/us/small-business/ShopSmall/
See CALENDAR, page 25
The Current
36 • December 2012 16
st for kids u j n
A speci
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Siblings Aiden Kells and Mikala Lindgren recently participated in Christian Youth Theater's production of the play, "A Christmas Carol." Aiden played a young Scrooge, and Mikala was part of a dance group.
Brought to you by
More about "A Christmas Carol" Even though the CYT production of "A Christmas Carol" is over, there are many ways you can enjoy this well-loved tale of the Christmas season. See how well you know the story by doing this six-question true/false quiz below. Submitted photo
A Christmas Carol helps teach holiday lesson Wave Contributor
Christmas arrived in November at the Bing Crosby Theater in downtown Spokane — and many Spokane Valley kids were part of launching the season. Christian Youth Theater's production of the play, "A Christmas Carol," kicked off the most wonderful time of the year beginning on Nov. 2 and running until Nov. 11. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge discovering the true meaning of Christmas was first published on Dec. 19, 1843, by a company in London, England, called Chapman and Hall. The author, Charles Dickens, wrote the book in hopes of helping the poor and unfortunate in his homeland of Great Britain. As it turns out, the story is
credited with bringing back a sense of traditional holiday joy in both Europe and America at a time when many had forgotten the real value of Christmas. Charitable donations also increased after the book was published. The Spokane rendition of the play featured a number of participants from the Spokane Valley area, including Mikala Lindgren and Aiden Kells. Mikala was part of a tap dance group and Aiden played the young Scrooge in a scene where the main character joins "The Ghost of Christmas Past" on a journey back in time. For Mikala, the experience of Scrooge was a good lesson in what is truly important. Until he sees that happiness consists of more than worldly riches, Ebenezer responds to the mention of
"Christmas is definitely not about money or getting the greatest gifts."
2) True or False: The phrase, "Bah! Humbug!" became widely recognized as a result of "A Christmas Carol." 3) True or False: In "A Christmas Carol," Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three ghosts. 4) True or False: The setting for A Christmas Carol takes place in New York City during Thanksgiving. 5) True or False: People often use the word Scrooge to describe people who are mean or stingy. 6) True or False: Only one movie based on "A Christmas Carol" has ever been made.
— Mikala Lindgren, Christian Youth Theater performer in 'A Christmas Carol'
Christmas with a grumpy, "Bah! Humbug!" "Christmas is definitely not about money or getting the greatest gifts," Mikala said. Over the years, the story has helped many people appreciate the value of helping others during the holidays and beyond. In 1867, a wealthy factory owner in Boston attended a reading of "A
See LESSON, page 17
Answers to True or False questions from above: 1) True. Dickens wrote the entire book, which has never been out of print since first published, in only six weeks. 2) True. Ebenezer Scrooge uttered this catchphrase in disgust of many Christmas traditions. Although Scrooge is most often noted for exclaiming these words, the entire phrase is noted only twice in the book. 3) False. Scrooge is visited by four ghosts—Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet-to-com—who teach him the error of his selfish ways. 4) False. The story takes place in London, England, on Christmas Eve. 5) True. Scrooge has largely been used as an adjective to describe people who are extremely greedy. 6) False. It has actually been made into many films, musicals and plays. If you want something a little shorter or not as scary, consider a kid-friendly option. Movie and TV adaptations include versions starring Mickey Mouse, Jim Carrey, Fred Flintstone, Grouchy the Smurf and Oscar the Grouch as Ebenezer Scrooge.
By Craig Howard
1) True or False: This famous story about Christmas was written in 1843 by Charles Dickens.
The Current
December 2012 • 17 37
Unscramble some yuletide cheer Make sense of popular holiday songs by unscrambling the letters to the right. For example, ELTWEV YADS FO RMASSTIHR when placed in the proper order is the famous song, "Twelve Days of Christmas." See how long it takes you to uns cramble the 12 Christmas tunes to the right. If you get stuck, ask a parent to help, or see the bottom of the page for the answers.
Practice caring this holiday season During the month of December, residents all over the Valley area will be practicing the act of caring, which is the featured PACE trait. People have the opportunity to show they care for others every day as members of families, students in the classroom or part of a sports team or extracurricular club. But this time of year, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas, provides many more ways to care for others. The Wave encourages kids to talk with their families about ways they can show compassion to others this holiday season. No act of kindness is too small, so get busy brainstorming how you can practice this trait throughout the year. Listed below are a few ideas of how you can start in the upcoming month. Donate clothing. Go through your closets and drawers to find what clothing you have outgrown or are not using. If
LESSON Continued from page 16
Christmas Carol" on Christmas Eve. The next day, he closed his warehouse and sent each employee a turkey for their holiday dinner. Between cast and crew, over 80 representatives of CYT participated in "A Christmas Carol." The play included around a dozen musical numbers. Rehearsals for the play began in September and ran eight weeks. In addition to Friday night productions, the play was also staged twice on Saturdays. The cast also set
(kâr' ĭng): Showing a genuine concern for the welfare of others and being a kind, supportive helper you have warm coats or gloves to donate, find an organization that hands out winter clothing to those who have none. Many area charities also accept clothing to help people they care for. Collect food. Regardless of the time of year, people need to eat to survive, so why not share the gift of food? Organizations that help those in need are always looking for food items they can distribute. Why not ask your friends and family to donate canned goods or other non-perishable (does not spoil easily) food items? Many local businesses and city offices have large aside two daytime shows, called "matinees," for local elementary school students. Aiden and Mikala's mom, Amy Kells, said CYT has been a great program for her kids. "It really helps with confidence and in school with homework and study habits," Amy said. "There is a lot of friendship and camaraderie." CYT began in San Diego in 1981. Spokane became the first CYT branch outside of San Diego in 1998. CYT now has programs throughout the nation. The local CYT office is located in Spokane Valley. Approximately 1,800 tickets were sold to the CYT production of "A Christmas Carol." CYT is a nonprofit organization that
boxes where you can drop off your items to be delivered to those who need them. Purchase gifts. Believe it or not, many kids would not receive holiday gifts if it weren't for the kindness of strangers. People who help organize gift-giving for kids from families whose parents are out of work or are unable to buy gifts recruit shoppers to buy presents for these kids. See if any of the places you frequent (schools, churches, local businesses) are in need of some help to bring Christmas cheer to another family this year. Give money. By ringing bells and collecting money with red kettles in front of stores, the Salvation Army raises money to help more than 4.5 million people during the holiday season. That's a lot of change! Challenge your family members to collect their spare coins during the month between Thanksgiving and December, and then give it to a charity of your choice. relies on donations, ticket sales and tuition fees for its funding. The first stage version of "A Christmas Carol" took place in London a year after the book was published. The tale is divided into five chapters, which the author called "stanzas," or verses, in keeping with the musical theme of the book's title. Over the years, "A Christmas Carol" has been adapted to the stage, opera and many movies, including one featuring the Muppets. Whatever form the story takes, the account of Scrooge, Jacob Marley, the Cratchit family and a trio of ghosts has always taken "Bah! Humbug!" and turned it into "A Merry Christmas to everyone!"
Answers to "Unscramble some yuletide cheer" from above:
Going to the dentist can be fun and easy! We've got convenient hours to fit your family's schedule. Evening, early morning, and Saturday appointments available.
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1327 N. Stanford Lane, Suite B Liberty Lake, WA Check out our Facebook page for contests and events.
1. Jingle Bells; 2. Deck the Halls; 3. Away in a Manger; 4. Joy to the World; 5. Silent Night; 6. Frosty the Snowman; 7. O Christmas Tree; 8. Up on the Housetop; 9. Holly Jolly Christmas; 10. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer; 11. Santa Claus is Coming to Town; 12. We Wish You a Merry Christmas
The Current
38 • December 2012 18
Gifts of comfort, camaraderie characterize Guild By Valerie Putnam Current Contributor
The children of Thorp, Wash., whose lives were affected by last summer's fire, received a gift of pillowcases. A Guatemalan hospital with only two blankets in the operating room is provided a gift of 88 quilts. Yearly, the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery has its need for blankets fulfilled. In each case, a Spokane Valley nonprofit stepped up to fill each need and provide gifts of comfort. "People helping people," is how Susan Mason describes the Spokane Valley Quilters Guild. Mason is a longtime member and Community Service Committee Chairperson of the Valley-based nonprofit. The Guild supports other local and international nonprofit organizations with hand-made quilts. The organization formed in the early 1980s as quilting was making a resurgence in popularity. The group of 20 women met at various Valley locations, including the Spokane Valley Library, churches, senior centers and various members' homes. Since the beginning, the Guild has had a long-standing mission of providing quilts for charity. Now at 105 members, the organization has sewn more than 350 quilts so far this year, with more anticipated. "That small of a group to make that many quilts is amazing," Mason said. "We're always willing to help anyone that needs help." The Guild's quilts are donated to nonprofit organizations, including the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, Project Linus, Daybreak, Spokane Valley Partners, Hearts in Motion, Camp Goodtimes, Quilts of Valor, Volunteers of America Crosswalk and Free Rein Therapeutic Riding. Mason makes up two different kinds of kits for members to choose from to make quilts from donated materials. The Top Quilt kits include fabric cut to make a specific pattern. After the top is completed, members can either turn them back in for other members to complete or finish themselves. The project kits include panels of fabric with no pattern, allowing members to come up with their own design. "People in our group come up with amazing quilts," Mason said. Although the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery and Spokane Valley Partners are two organizations the group regularly supports, the Guild gives its members freedom to sew for organizations they feel passionate about. Many of these members will seek help from other members. For example, member Marilyn Miller asked the group to help out after her daughter returned from volunteering with the Hearts in Motion project, a group of
A group from the Spokane Valley Quilters Guild holds up quilts made to be donated to the Hearts in Motion project. The quilts were sent with a group of local oral surgeons who traveled to Guatemala to perform surgeries on children with cleft palates.
Spokane Valley Quilters Guild President Anne Laflamme stands with Christmas stockings the organization made for the Spokane Valley Partners food bank. Last year, the Guild donated 198 stockings. Submitted photos
local oral surgeons who travel to Guatemala to perform surgeries on children with cleft palates. Miller's daughter told her about how the operating room didn't have blankets. The Guild supported Miller's plea by donating 88 quilts to the hospital. This year, member Karen Medley asked the Guild to provide a quilt for every participant at Camp Goodtimes, a summer camp for children with cancer. The Guild stepped up and provided the camp a quilt for all 160 campers. According to Mason, the donation to Camp Goodtimes was the Guild's single largest donation. Currently, Mason said the group is working on Christmas stockings for the Spokane Valley Partners food bank. Last year, they donated 198 stockings. "We hope to make as many as last year," Mason said about the stockings. In 2006, member Karyn Monroe began a regular Guild committee after she made a number of quilts for her friends going through difficult times. Now, the group makes heart-laced quilts for Guild members who are experiencing hardship. To date, they've given 36 quilts as gifts. As part of its community service projects, the group hosts a community sew day every third Saturday at the Millwood Presbyterian Church.
Besides performing community service, members of the Guild receive benefits such as a monthly newsletter, access to an extensive library and classes. "We've done everything from specialized tips and tricks to cutting fabric to get a certain result," President Anne Laflamme said about the variety of classes the Guild offers. "It varies every year as a function of what folks are asking for and if we can line up teachers." The Guild's library features more than 390 quilting and related books available for members to check out. "We have holdings comparable to guilds larger than ours," Guild Librarian Bonnie Rae said. "I'm proud of that." The Guild provides Rae with a small budget to purchase materials, but most of the books are donated. Rae, who retired from the Spokane Library, frequently changes the library materials, selling the books pulled out to members for a minimal fee. Among all the benefits, Laflamme extols the relationships formed between the members. "I think the camaraderie is fantastic," Laflamme said. "It's a wonderful group of people who care about each other, care about quilting and care about the community."
Spokane Valley Quilters Guild History The Guild formed in 1980 with 20 members. Currently, there are 105 members. Meetings The group meets for a general meeting the first Tuesday of every odd month beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Valley Assembly of God, 15618 E. Broadway. Each meeting includes a potluck dinner along with a speaker or program. The next general meeting is Dec. 4. Board meetings are held the first Tuesday during even months starting at 6:30 p.m. at Hancock's Fabrics on the corner of Sullivan and Sprague. Along with large group meetings, the Guild hosts smaller groups that meet and work on projects at various times and locations. General Information The Guild collects a $15 annual membership fee which goes toward the cost to rent space. Annual fundraisers are held to raise money to pay for fabric, batting, notions and maintaining the Guild's library. Fun Fact Over the years, according to Guild historian Marilyn Miller, it has counted among its members well-known regional quilters Jackie Wolff and Pam Clark, quilter and author Mary Lou Weidman and artist and author Debbie Mumm. Donations The Guild accepts tax-exempt donations. Fabric, batting and notions are accepted, along with financial donations. Currently, the Guild is in need of batting. Anyone interested in making a donation should contact Community Service Committee Chairperson Susan Mason at 924-3172. Membership Anyone is welcome to join. To join, download a membership application from the Guild's website, www.svqg. info. For further information, contact Anne Laflamme at 443-6824 or Susan Mason at 924-3172.
The Current
local lens
U-High production yields high attendance
December 2012 • 19 39
CHURCH DIRECTORY Greenacres Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
A traditional, family oriented church. Adult & Youth Sunday School 10:00 AM Sunday Worship Service 11:00 AM Gary Hann, Minister
18010 E. Mission - 926.2461 Established 1902 Member of CUIC
• Strong Academic and Moral Foundation • Preschool and Kindergarten Programs • Community and Service Focus • Before and After School Care
Preschool-Eighth Grade Scholarship Joining Values Over 50 years of academic excellence
MaSS TiMES:
Saturday Vigil - 5 p.m. Sunday - 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Weekday Masses - 8 a.m., except Wednesday which is 8:15 a.m. adoration Reconciliation
The last Wednesday of every month 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Pastor Fr. Joseph Bell Assoc. Pastor Fr. Charles Skok Deacon Kelly Stewart
the intersection church Photos courtesy of Scott Martinez Photography
The University High School drama department presented seven performances of "Les Misérables" at the U-High Theatre in early November. It was the best-attended play in the history of the school with more than 3,500 seeing the production. U-High drama students worked throughout the summer to create an innovative set, which included a mechanically revolving stage as seen in the original stage production.
www.theintersection.info 905 N. McDonald Rd. • Spokane Valley Sunday Service: Traditional 8:30 a.m. • Contemporary 10:30 a.m. Christmas Eve Family Service: 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. 924-3705
Saturday, 4-4:30 p.m. or by appointment
St. John Vianney Church 503 N. Walnut | Spokane Valley 99206 926-5428 | firstname.lastname@example.com
Sunday School 9:30 a.m.
WorShip Service 10:45 a.m.
• Non-denominational • Bible-teaching • Activities for All Ages Sunday Service - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Kids Program - 6:30 p.m. Thursday Youth Group - 7:00 p.m.
Local Lens
Share your snapshots for The Current's photo page. Email email@example.com with scenes from around town, community events and group photos.
Biz Notes Brand It moves to renovated building Brand It, an advertising agency and promotional products company, purchased a building at 122 N. Raymond Road in Spokane Valley and relocated there from a nearby location in early November. The business is owned by Dan and Lisa Mathews, who said the move was made to give more space to their growing business. The 3,500-square-foot building purchased by Brand It has undergone a complete interior and exterior remodel. Brand It occupies approximately half of the building and plans to lease out two other suites in the building, approximately 900 square feet in size each.
STCU opens branch, purchases land for Argonne financial center November was a big month for STCU, with two major property developments. In Spokane Valley, the credit union purchased 2.5 acres south of Interstate 90 at the Argonne interchange. CEO Tom Johnson announced to staff that tentative plans call for building an STCU Financial Center and a full-service branch at the site. "For years we have known that we needed a presence on the Argonne corridor, but we had just not found the right spot," Johnson said in his announcement to staff. While plans are not yet firmed up, the STCU Financial Center will likely open in
23304 E. Wellesley, Otis Orchards, WA
2303 South Bowdish Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99206 509-924-4525 www.valley4th.com
For as little as $7 a month, area churches can share service times, special programs or upcoming events in The Current. It's simple. Call or email to learn more about the church directory: 242-7752 • firstname.lastname@example.com.
2013 or 2014 and will be a hub for many of the credit union's lending operations, among other plans. The site will also include a full-service branch. The site at the northeast corner of Mission and Mullan currently includes office suites, an 18-unit former apartment building that's been converted into office space and an older house, also converted for business use. Tenants of those buildings will be given plenty of notice before they must move out, said STCU Chief Financial Officer Bill Before. Additionally in Spokane, STCU's 16th branch, Moran Prairie, opened early in the month and celebrated a grand opening Nov. 19.
Lewis honored as Master Florist Monty Lewis with Appleway Florist & Greenhouse was recently recognized as an FTD Master Florist. The recognition is only given to about 20 percent of the florists that are part of the 100-year-old FTD florist network. Founded by Bob and Virginia Lewis in 1952, Appleway also held an open house in celebration of its 60th anniversary on Nov. 3. Did your business recently open, receive recognition or experience some other noteworthy milestone? What about a new hire or promotion? Submit the information to Biz Notes at firstname.lastname@example.com.
40 • December 2012 20
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The Current
At the Liberty Lake PORTAL CYBER WORLD Offers the High End in Hosting
operation, customer service is always personal. "There are only two of us who answer the phones," Mark mentioned. And while you may initially wonder if you've made an international call, you've likely reached Mark, with his charming Irish accent, and his extensive knowledge of what it will take to make your web hosting service perfect for your business and perfect for your budget.
Two years ago, Mark Sandall assumed the day to day operations of Cyber World Internet Services. Having spent the first 28 years of his life in his native country of Ireland, Mark is relatively new to Spokane. However, Mark is not new to the computer industry, having worked in cloud computing before taking the reins of Cyber World in 2010. All About Keeping Ideas Safe Mark enuBack in the year 1882, when our country merated the was only about 100 years old, Parsons Behle benefits of & Latimer offered legal services to the minoperating ers settling the their busifrontier. Today, ness from the with 130 years Liberty Lake in the legal busiPortal. "We need depend- ness, Parsons Behle & Latimer is able internet, one of the oldest power, and and best-known temperature business law and control. With The secure, temperature conlitigation firms this facility, trolled Data Center is key to in the western we've never Cyber World's success. United States. had an issue. "Our first clients Everything is redundant and that enables us were in the busi- Attorney James Lake to provide a great service for the clients we Parsons Behle ness of mining so represents are hosting." & Latimer from his office in related areas of the Liberty Lake Portal. Cyber World operates as a specialty bounatural resource tique, customizing hosting services to fit law and energy continue to be a core part of the needs of their wide our practice," explained Attorney range of clients. "We "We need dependable James Lake. He is the lone rider in use our technical experiinternet, power, and the Liberty Lake office of a firm that ence to help small busiboasts over 135 attorneys throughness owners cut through temperature control. the western United States and all the confusion that With this facility we've out offers expertize in a wide range of exists." Mark explained. never had an issue." industries. "They end up being - Mark Sandall Lake specializes in Patents, Tradethrilled with how much Cyber World Internet Services marks, and Copyrights. When money they save, the asked about the rewards of workservice they receive, and ing in this field, Lake remarked, "In essence, a website they can manage by themselves." I help people (inventors and entrepreneurs) Because Cyber World is a relatively small
who want to start something new. Everything I do is related to an idea for making something better." James opened the Liberty Lake branch of Parsons Behle & Latimer in 2011. He appreciates the competitive rent along with the convenient and well maintained common areas in the Liberty Lake Portal and finds that the concentration of technology and business professionals makes for a very nice business climate in which to work.
NORTHWEST TAILORING Marks Second Anniversary at PORTAL
For the past two years, Irina Khadzhi has provided professional tailoring and alteration services to the Spokane area. Her large shop in the Portal houses cutting tables, industrial sewing machines, and racks of clothing trusted to her by her numerous clients throughout the region. Wedding gowns, suit coats, and everything in between hang together in Irena's spacious workshop at the Portal. With a love of sewing, and many years of experience in the alterations business, Irina enjoys delighting her customers. She also really enjoys having Irina Khadzhi at work in her office her business at the Portal. in the Liberty Lake Portal. "It's my home," Irina says of Liberty Lake, adding "I love this building and the people. They are gentle and kind."
Start your story here at The Portal. Contact Steven Daines at 509.343.0103 for leasing information.
business Maverik brings innovation to stale convenience store model The Current
By Craig Swanson Spokane Valley Scoop
I don't have to look at old photographs of the Valley to see pictures of a past and a place much different than today. I need only to close my 54-year-old dream screens and conjure up scenes from my early childhood through my 20s. Most everything has changed — like, for example, the simple routine gas stop. My memory goes back to the days when parents could drive along with windows up, smoking a cigarette as their children sat unrestrained by seatbelts just inches away. No one thought anything about it. One long-gone ritual from those less-enlightened days was stopping for gas at one of the many neighborhood full-service gas stations. My folks mostly went to the white-and-red cinderblock Phillips 66 station on South Pines, where Polka Dot Pottery is now. Like most stations back then, there was a small counter area with just a limited offering besides fuses, fan belts and roadmaps, like a small variety of the top-selling candy bars and gum and some pop. Two service bays took up about two-thirds of the building's north end. You had to go around the corner to get to the small, drab bathrooms on the south outside wall. The "service� in service station was all about servicing the car, not spoiling patrons with spacious, tastefully designed, well-lit bathrooms. While I don't recall the name of the owner, I do remember he seemed a bit debonair with his white hair neatly combed and oiled. Below his nose was an equally well-groomed white mustache with its opposing ends extending an inch off his face and curling up to sharp and rigid points. It is no wonder his face is entrenched in the caverns of my memory, considering how often he loomed above outside the car doing his job. In good weather, he was jovial and the chat was always friendly. In bad weather, we saw more of his employees, which was good because it was often too miserable outside to roll down the windows and visit. I was always mesmerized watching them looking through the windows at us but not seeing us and then squirting cleaner on the film of dirt and bugs I hadn't even noticed before. Then they wiped it clean with their squeaky squeegees and often went on to pop the hood to draw forth the mystical dipstick. It was a Mayberry part of life in Opportunity that was on its way out with the 1960s.
Somewhere during the IF YOU GO changing of the Maverik eras, the "self717 N. Evergreen Road serve� pumps (at intersection with showed up in Broadway) the far lane at 891-7743 the small gas stations dotting the Valley like the freckles that ran amuck across my face when I was a kid. For a while, they offered both full- and self-service, but people frugally and routinely chose braving the elements to pump for themselves and pay a little less. Slowly and sadly, the Goobers and Gomers of the gas stations came out less and less, and then one day, like little Jackie Paper, they came no more. We have been living in the era of the convenience store ever since. To put it mildly, it is a stale industry that has not evolved much since 7-11 stores pioneered the Valley, though it is a bellwether to the overall unhealthiness of our society. Today's purveyors of gasoline are more filling stations now than ever. It is unbelievable the amount and variety of liquid beverages we are offered now as compared to the early days. Since I hated pop as a kid, I was keenly aware that there were no bottled or canned non-carbonated drinks. Finally, Country Time Lemonade came out in a can, and that was the best it ever got during my youth. Then Snapple was introduced and mass-marketed while Gatorade morphed from a one-trick pony into the mother of all sports drinks. We must be very, very thirsty if we can support all these people and products in the beverage industry. But overall, beyond the occasional teaming up with a Subway or Wendy's, the convenience stores of today are close to what they were in the beginning. I actually had not noticed or ever thought about it until we stumbled upon the open house party Nov. 7 at the new super-convenience store at Evergreen and Broadway: Maverik, The Great Adventure. We were headed back from the food court at the mall, where we had met our daughter for dinner. Talk about bad timing. There I was with a $5 Bruchi's Philly Cheesesteak sandwich hogging up all the room in my tummy as I milled about all the free food a free-loader like myself could ever want at Maverik's crowded, live-remote open house. Like it or not, my full tummy had to stretch more than it wanted as I forced it to accommodate a few dessert items like a bite of cookie or
See MAVERIK, page 25
December 2012 • 21 41
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The Current
42 • December 2012 22
Zaycon takes fresh approach of bringing meat to market By Valerie Putnam
A recent event in Boise, Idaho, offers a glimpse of how Zaycon Foods distributes its food to consumers. Customers pull through a parking lot, drive-thru style, and load their vehicles with orders of bulk chicken or other meat. There is only one type of meat distributed at each event.
Current Contributor
Two Spokane natives are attempting to reinvent the way we purchase meat. "This whole thing is outside the box," said Mike Conrad, president of Zaycon Foods. "No doubt about it. It's fun to make it happen here in Spokane." Zaycon Foods is an online meat wholesaler. Its unique nationwide distribution network uses the combined buying power of thousands of families nationwide to purchase products such as meat or other food items by the truckload at a low, marketdriven cost. The price is disclosed when an event opens to the public. "The difference between what we sell and what everybody else sells is that not only is it in bulk, but it's fresh," Conrad said. "That's the biggest difference." Customers register online at the Zaycon website to be eligible for sales events. Several times a year, an event is opened up to purchase a specific product, sold in bulk. Zaycon's primary products include 40-pound boxes of boneless skinless natural chicken breasts, 40-pound boxes of 93/7 lean ground beef, 30-pound boxes of premium hickory smoked bacon, 25-pound boxes of fish (Alaskan cod or salmon) and ham. Zaycon plans to sell breakfast sausage beginning in February. They have also offered blueberries, strawberries, honey and turkey. "The price brings people in, but the quality keeps them coming back," Vice President Adam Kremin said. "That really is our focus, the freshness — directly from the farm to the customer." Emails are sent to customers alerting them they can purchase their product on-
Julia's Jungle pampers pets without profit By Kyle Hansen Critics on Bikes
Years of chasing a scared mutt through a pile of wet fur have taught my family that washing the dog at home is more trouble than it's worth. Even after the furry fugi-
Submitted photo
line for a designated amount of time. "We have grand opening prices pretty much all the time because we watch the commodity market," Kremin said. "So we know what times of the year certain products drop to the lowest price. We can buy these products at the low prices and be more competitive than anyone else." After the sale closes, customers are alerted to a location where they can pick up their purchase. Zaycon delivers its products using a drive-thru approach. Customers come to designated delivery spots in specific cities across the country where trucks are parked with their order. Currently, the company has an estimated 600 delivery locations that serve more than 175,000 customers nationwide and has plans to expand. "I've never been a part of a company where the customers are so fired up to get their chicken," Conrad said. "It's crazy. If you come to one of our events, you would see people grinning from ear to ear so ex-
cited for the great deal they got." The locations are centrally located with ease of traffic flow. It usually is a large parking lot and has been hosted at local bowling alleys, bookstores and churches. The day of the event, drivers line up at their designated time for their pick up. Zaycon employees transfer the large boxes of product from a semi trailer directly to customers waiting in vehicles. "The idea is to make it as seamless as possible for the customer," Kremin said. "We want it to be a great experience from the time they order to the end when they are eating the product." The largest event the company hosted was in Boise, Idaho. "We had 1,400 cars come through in three hours," Conrad said about the recent event. "We delivered 70,000 pounds of chicken that day. It was awesome." Besides being low cost and fresh, another
See ZAYCON, page 26
Dogs or cats can stay at the tive is caught, wrestled to Julia's Jungle Kennel, and the tub and held back long IF YOU GO customers can wash dogs enough for a bath, a mess Julia's Jungle at self-service wash stations of hair, soaked towels and 12619 E. Sprague without worrying about the globs of shampoo that fling 922-6197 hassle and cleaning. Their to the walls every time the grooming services come dog shakes require a day's Critics on Bikes rating: highly recommended. work in cleanup. + 4/4 Tour de France Animals at Julia's Jungle Don't subject yourself to ordeals like this every month. The next are made as comfortable as possible durtime your dog is due for a wash, head on ing their stays. Those put up for adoption over to Julia's Jungle and turn a grueling are vaccinated and treated for any specific conditions. Customers are asked to donate day into an effortless half hour. Julia's Jungle is a nonprofit organization pet beds, toys or air-conditioned dog kenthat gives impounded pets a chance for nels and "kitty condos" for the cats to play a new home. Animals in danger of being in. Dogs are walked on a regular basis. Julia's Jungle has something to offer to put down at the local shelters are taken in and put up for adoption. Lots of other ser- any animal owner, whether you want to vices are provided for pet owners as well. adopt your first dog or take care of an old
Zaycon Foods About the company Zaycon has 20 full-time and five part-time employees. The company sells natural boneless skinless chicken breast, 93/7 lean ground beef, fresh premium hickory smoked bacon, ham, Alaskan cod and salmon. Breakfast sausage is planned to be sold beginning in February. The company hosts sales twice a year for each product. Next local event 93/7 ground beef delivery is Dec. 4. The sale is now open. How to order Register at Zaycon Foods' website, www.zayconfoods.com, and create an account. Customers must be logged into an individual account to make a purchase. All products are sold online. Nothing is sold at the event site. Product The meat is purchased from farms and U.S. processing facilities, typically located in the southern and midwestern states. How to get an event There must be a minimum of 100 participants registered at a location. Fun facts • Zaycon is a Spokane Valley-based business. • President Mike Conrad and Vice President Adam Kremin are cousins. Both men were born and raised in Spokane. • Good Morning America filmed a segment on the company in May of this year. The segment aired in mid-October. beloved family pet. The organization goes to great lengths to assure satisfaction of customers and their pets alike, without taking any profit from their good work. Every cent you spend at Julia's Jungle goes toward the care for and saving of animals, to give them a loving home when they would otherwise be in jeopardy. So put down that shower sprayer, coax your quivering dog out from hiding and breathe a sigh of relief. Julia's Jungle will take care of you both. Critics on Bikes is a monthly column written by Kyle Hansen, a lifelong Millwood resident and junior at West Valley High School. Local businesses are reviewed on a four-point rating system: ¼ (road rash), 2/4 (flat tire), ¾ (bike lane) and 4/4 (Tour de France).
The Current
A tale of two coaches
Bartlett, Mahoney both paved paths to success this fall Mike Vlahovich Current Contributor
Two different coaches in two different sports. Two different schools and two remarkable performances. Two interesting stories. Kieran Mahoney coached Central Valley to its first state cross country championship in the Class 4A boys race the first weekend in November.
Mahoney's tale is that of a former distance runner and coach who had to remake himself before he could take a team all the way to a state title. A Saturday later, first-year coach Rob Bartlett had surprising University in the State 3A football quarterfinals, a first for the Titans. Bartlett's tale is one of an athlete 15 years removed from his playing days at U-Hi who installed an offense that evolved week-byweek and was led by an athlete who was thrust into the quarterback position by circumstance.
Coaching for success Central Valley's four-year cross country coach admits he originally was too hardwired to succeed. An introspective look in the mirror led to the realization he'd need to change for a program to truly have meaning. Success didn't necessarily mean you crossed the finish line first. "I've got to admit when I was coaching at Port Angeles in the late 1990s, as a young-
er coach I was too intense and focused on state," Mahoney said. "By the time my teams got there they were so tight they were stressed out and didn't race very well. State was not fun. I have no good memories from that." He left coaching but watched a meet on occasion. There, he noticed the runners on Spokane's best teams were loose, relaxed and joking at the starting line. "When I got back into this game," Mahoney said, "I wanted to make sure I enjoyed it. I looked at the true reason why you coach is to make an (positive) impact on a kid's life." That meant nurturing each kid. If you do that, he said, they are more able to run loose and relaxed. They are about team building — making sacrifices, running for each other instead of individually and having fun. "Now I want kids to step to the line with a relaxed confidence," he said. "You'll either have a good day or a great day. I didn't have that when I was racing." Central Valley took baby steps begin-
December 2012 • 23 43
ning four seasons ago. "Honestly, we had kids who didn't want to run on varsity," Mahoney said. "They were more comfortable on JV." Each year was about celebrating little team successes rather than comparing the Bears to other Greater Spokane League teams. Improvement was palpable. The numbers in his program grew, leading to a State 4A fifth place finish by 2011 and culminating with this year's state title. "The other revelation I had is that you can win without a stud front runner," Mahoney said. He projected where each of his seven runners would need to finish at state if they were to win a state title. To a man, they beat those projections. "I told them they wouldn't be able to hear the coaches; they needed to coach themselves," Mahoney said. "They talked with and encouraged one another. That really, really helped them in the race." A revelation, a family, a state championship.
See COACHES, page 25
What I am thankful for, sports edition By Chad Kimberley Current Column
Thanksgiving in many ways is the black sheep of the annual holidays as it seems to struggle to stack up against its fellow festive days. Consider how great the other holidays are: • Christmas is about giving and receiving gifts, playing in the snow and enjoying the company of family and friends. • Valentine's Day is about cherishing and recognizing the loved ones in your life with romantic nights out or cozy times inside. • Easter is about spring time arriving with outdoor hunts for the elusive Easter bunny along with indoor celebrations of faith and new beginnings. • The Fourth of July is all about explosions, patriotism and parades and brings together small and large communities and ushers in the summer season. And then we have Thanksgiving. Originally it was a day to reflect and remember the very first Thanksgiving between the Plymouth settlers and the Wampanoag Indians and was celebrated by various colonies and states at different times. While in the midst of the Civil War in 1863, President Lincoln proclaimed a National Thanksgiving Day on the final
Thursday of November in hopes of fostering a spirit of unity between the North and the South. Finally in 1941 President Roosevelt officially moved the holiday up to the fourth Thursday of the month to stimulate economic growth (i.e. more shopping days before Christmas). Thanksgiving has gone from being thankful that we have food to sustain us to now getting up at unnatural hours to buy, buy and buy some more. This is why Thanksgiving has gotten a bad rap and why we may just have to look at sports to redeem this holiday season. My suggestion is to ignore the capitalism of this holiday and focus on the sports (and, of course, the food). Wall-to-wall sports for four straight days kicking off with Thanksgiving Day NFL, Friday and Saturday college football, another round of NFL on Sunday and college and NBA basketball sprinkled throughout the holiday break. And while we watch, we can't forget the food; turkey and ham, potatoes of various styles, delectable breads and pastries, and of course pies, pies and a few more pies. So as I prepare to put on my most comfortable (i.e. loose fitting) pants and settle onto my couch with remote in one hand and fork in the other, I would like to give thanks for sports in all its splendor and atrociousness. I am thankful for Mike Leach. Mike Leach's first season as Cougar coach has given me — a lowly, high school coach — hope that one day I can earn $1.1 million per win (as of this writing). I know, I know Cougar fans: This is year one and blah,
blah, blah. But wasn't everyone hopeful for more than 2-8 with no conference wins? I am thankful for the Cougar flag. OK, now let me get back in good graces with the Cougar community. I am thankful for the current 128 consecutive week (as of this writing) ESPN College Gameday flagflying streak. You gotta love the commitment to flying your team's flag faithfully week after week. I am thankful for WIAA championships. I love that our local teams have had deep runs into the postseason while also bringing home a first place trophy from the CV boys cross country along with championship game appearances by the CV boys basketball, Valley Christian boys basketball, Freeman girls basketball and CV girls basketball teams. I am thankful for guys getting busted for PEDs. I am thankful that Lance Armstrong was stripped of his multiple Tour de France titles and that All Star Game MVP Melky Cabrera was suspended by MLB. I love the fact even more that when his suspension was lifted his team, the San Francisco Giants, told him to stay home and went out and won the World Series without him. Remember kids, keep it clean. I am thankful that I am not Mike Brown. Ouch. Five games into the season after his Lakers are cover boys for Sports Illustrated he gets axed after starting 1-4. C'mon Lakers, did you not know a defensive minded coach wanting to run the Princeton offense wasn't going to work with Nash, Howard and Kobe? I am thankful for outdoor sports. The Spokane Valley and surrounding areas
have it all: trails to ride, walk and run; lakes to play in; rivers to raft down; mountains to climb up and ski down; golf courses to whack the ball around; and plenty of green space to enjoy. I am thankful for Gonzaga basketball. I am enthralled that a small college in Spokane regularly competes and beats the big boys of college basketball. Mark Few has done a great job of sustaining excellence (which in and of itself is a near impossible task in this era of one-and-done in college hoops) while giving Spokanites reason to fill out brackets each March. I am thankful for the Chicago Cubs. With 101 losses this year and now 104 years without a World Series win, I am still thankful. All the lessons I need to learn about perseverance, hope, faith, trust and belief I have learned from being a Cubs fan. I am thankful for The Current and all its faithful readers. Once a month, I get to rant or praise (depending on the mood) about all things sports, and for that I am thankful. And of course I am thankful for everyone who takes a few moments to read this paper and, in turn, uses my column to line their bird cages (I hear I am very popular with parakeets and cockatoos). As you celebrate this holiday season, take a moment to remember why you are thankful for sports and then make sure you take many more moments to remember how thankful you are for your family, your friends and your freedoms. Happy Thanksgiving. Current sports columnist Chad Kimberley is a local teacher, coach and sports fan/critic (again, depending on the mood).
44 • December 2012 24
The Current
Teachers in teen parent program take hands-on approach to caring By Ali Roberts Current Guest Column
It's the first day of school at the East Valley High School Teen Parent Program. A 16-year-old girl walks into school with her 10-month-old son. On the outside, she looks like a strong and confident young lady without any worries. Little does anyone know, she is homeless and about to be put into foster care. Both of her parents are alcoholics, and her stepdad has abused her a lot over the past few years. About a week before school started, a conflict occurred with her parents, her son's father and her. Her parents were both drunk that night when her stepdad pulled a knife out with the intentions of stabbing her son's father. The girl was scared and jumped in front of her stepdad only to be stabbed in the face. One of the neighbors called 911 when she heard the screaming. Shortly after, the police, fire department and an ambulance were knocking on the door. Unfortunately, the stepdad was gone by the time they arrived, but the truth finally came out. She gave her report to the police officer, and they were determined to find him. The next day, a Child Protection Service (CPS) social worker called and wanted to meet with her and take her out of the home. The only problem: There weren't many foster homes that would take both a teenage mother and her son. So she had to couch surf for a few weeks until the CPS social worker could find a home that would take the two of them. When that 16-year-old girl walked into the teen parent program that day, she didn't just walk into a normal classroom; she walked into a classroom full of caring teachers with open hearts and open arms.
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As they found out her story, one of "That 16-yearthe workers in the old girl didn't nursery offered for her to stay at her just walk into house until the CPS a normal social worker found a home for her. The classroom; she teachers offered walked into a some clothes and gave her a food classroom full of backpack so her son caring teachers would have something healthy to eat. with open hearts They also gave her a shoulder to cry on and open arms." and stood by her side to support her. Before school, she felt alone and like she had no way to escape. As time passed, things started changing for the better. Once these kind teachers started to get to know her and recognized her potential as a young woman who wants to go to college instead of just be a teen with a baby, they wanted to help more. The lead teacher of the teen parent program opened her home to the 16-year-old girl and her 10-monthold son. She not only had concern for her schooling, she wanted her to become part of their family. The thought of someone actually wanting her to be part of their family warmed the girl's heart. She was so surprised to hear that someone who only met her a few months ago was willing to open hearts, wallets and home to help take care of her and her son. She has now been living with her new family for almost a month. She is starting to overcome her weakness of feeling guilty for things she had no control over, and she is no longer feeling scared and worried about her future. The 16-year-old girl now wants to be able to give back to the community since they have helped her so much. Being in the teen parent program gives her a great opportunity to do that. Every week, she helps pack weekend food bags for kids throughout the district who are low-income and don't have very much food. She also tries to put in as much time as possible into the clothing bank, organizing, sorting and hanging clothes on the rack. This 16-year-old girl knows how much a caring person or organization can impact a person's life, and she just wants to be able to help make an impact on other lives like that made for her and her son. Ali Roberts is a junior at East Valley High School enrolled in the Teen Parent Program. She has a 1-year-old son, Damien. This column was written as part of a monthly series highlighting the PACE (Partners Advancing Character Education) trait of the month, which for December is "caring."
Current Editorial
Help feed Valley's homeless students Food for Thought program provides backpack meals Applause for the newly minted Valley Homeless Network (see page 2). The group has formed with stakeholders from the education, business and nonprofit worlds, all interested in addressing a growing problem in Valley communities. While the issue doesn't necessarily look the same as it does in downtown Spokane, it is a serious issue nonetheless. Whether on the streets, living in a car or crashing with family and friends, when someone is without a place to call home, few other things in life can fall into place until that need is addressed. Another relatively new but important program for addressing this issue is the Food for Thought backpack program, a partnership between Spokane Valley Partners' food bank and church and service club volunteers. Each week, volunteers pack about 60 weekend meal packages for students who qualify for free lunch and may not have access to a meal otherwise. While not all of these students are homeless, many are, and all are in need of groups like the Valley Homeless Network and the Food for Thought volunteers to step up and find a way to bridge the gap. One thing that is already apparent: Resources will be an issue. Food for Thought
receives more requests than there is food to go around. Founder Pat Dockrey would add schools to the list — the long-term vision would be to have resources to meet the needs of any Valley school that wanted to partner with the program. Spokane Valley Partners Program Director Connie Nelson is an expert at turning the resources available into the maximum benefit for those in need, but the gap is still daunting. Financial donations as well as donations of single-serving types of foods are needed for the program to continue to meet the growing need. For more information, contact Spokane Valley Partners at 927-1153. In December, The Current and its sister publication, The Splash, will be highlighting these needs as part of an annual holiday focus. Donations both financial and in food will be collected for the Food for Thought program. Details of the campaign were being finalized at press time. Visit www.libertylakesplash.com beginning Dec. 5 to participate. It only costs Spokane Valley Partners about $6 to feed a student for an entire weekend — a total of six meals and snacks — and that includes the cost of providing nonperishable milk. Check online Dec. 5 and join the effort to further the mission of the Food for Thought program and the Valley Homeless Network.
The Current
MAVERIK Continued from page 21
two, a dab of frozen yogurt or two and a serving or two of jerky. They did not need to give me free food to win me over, although, as always, I did appreciate it. This new store is something like their 240th store in the western U.S., but it is the Valley's first and I see nothing around here to stop them from slamming in as many as they want. Certainly the present competition is little deterrent. The word competition is being generous to the local convenience stores because Maverik is on a different playing field. They have actually thought of the best way of doing things and then implemented those thoughts. For example, as a coffee drinker I spend so long looking for the coffee cup lids at unfamiliar stops that my coffee is nearly cold by the time I find them hidden in some illogical location. Then I normally have to set down my cup and focus carefully using both hands to get one lid away from the interlocked stack of lids. At Maverik, there is this ingenious container right where one would think lids should be that you pull and one lid at a time handily pops up. Another simple well thought-out solution to a widespread problem is a contraption attached to the bottom of the bathroom doors called Clean Escape. While Americans may be drinking themselves to un-health without a care, many can't stand the thought of grabbing the bathroom door handle with unprotected hands to get out. In addition to the wisely placed garbage can next to the door to receive paper towels the handwashers use to grab the handle to protect themselves from the non-washers, Maverik has provided the Clean Escape gizmo that allows the strong-of-foot to
CALENDAR Continued from page 15 Nov. 30 | Valley Chamber Annual Meeting "Like Us" 11:30 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel,
1100 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley. Speaker Frank J. Kenny, social media expert, will be the keynote speaker to help businesses understand the need for using technology to stay relevant and be competitive. Cost: $40 per person for members and guests; $50 per person for non-members. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org
Dec. 4 | Chamber Government Action Committee meeting 11:30
a.m. to 1 p.m., Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission, Spokane Valley. Program: State Legislative Priorities for 2013. Cost: $20.00 (includes lunch); register at spokanevalleychamber.org.
Dec. 6 | Valley Chamber Holiday Social
4:30 to 7 p.m., Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane (lower
December 2012 • 25 45
business/sports/community pull open the door using a toe or two. Then there is the social media they have mastered, including Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. Suffice it to say I am already a club card-carrying member and able to track every penny I spend there wisely and otherwisely. And just like the old days of S&H Green Stamps, I am building points that I can also keep tabs on as they amount to not anything great — but far greater than anyone else is giving me. I could go on drawing a picture of this incredible new place, where attendants are called "adventure guides" and chefs bake fresh bread daily, but it is a welcome and fresh scene you can see for yourself. But take it in soon and remember it carefully, because some day convenience stores, like gas stations, will become memories from the past.
Craig Swanson and his wife, Elaine, operate a blog and newsletter called Spokane Valley Scoop. A graduate of University High School, Craig is a lifetime resident of Spokane Valley. The Spokane Valley Scoop can be read online at spokanevalleyscoop. wordpress.com. level), Liberty Lake. In addition to festive food, drink and music, there will be an opportunity to shop for unique gift items in Santa's Showcase. Santa Showcase tables available for $50 each, but space is limited. For more: 924-4994
Dec. 11 | Stay at Work Workshop
2 p.m., CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley. Presented by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. This free, 90-minute workshop will explain the requirements, benefits, how to apply for reimbursements and how participation can help reduce claim costs for participating businesses. For more: www.lni.wa.gov or osbl235@lni. wa.gov
Dec. 15 | SCRAPS Open House & Happy Howl-a-day Party Noon to 5:30 p.m., 2521 N.
Flora Road, Spokane Valley. This December help SCRAPS find a forever home for every animal at our shelter. Special adoption price: Dogs $25, Cats $15 (includes microchip, vaccinations, spay/neutering, exam and license). For more: 477-2532 or www.spokanecounty.org/scraps
COACHES Continued from page 23
Rookie coach, Titans surprise University had, in the 40 years of state football, qualified for four state playoffs — three of them in Class 4A under three different coaches. One was Rob Bartlett's dad, Bob, in 1987 before he was inexplicably let go. None won a game. When Rob Bartlett got the job this year, he installed a spread offense that was "something I built and put on a piece of paper," he said. He was surrounded by a coterie of talented assistants, some, like him, graduates of U-Hi. They employed trainer Drew Butchkoski, whose innovative conditioning program was responsible for GSL power Ferris' successes. But when offseason training began, UHi's projected quarterback decided not to turn out. Sophomore prospect Garrett Schmerer broke his leg in summer camp. Junior Jeff Beaty, projected to be a slot receiver or defensive back and with scant quarterback knowledge, was asked to assume the role. "I had to figure out what the heck we were going to do," Bartlett said. "I knew Jeff was a good athlete and had a good arm. He was truly starting at ground zero — learning how to say cadence, how to hold a football, what to say in the huddle. Everything." Beaty wound up the second-leading passer in the GSL and a capable runner. But like him, U-Hi's offense proved a workin-progress. "Part of it was an evolution for me," Bartlett said. "From spring ball until now it's almost a new offense from what I thought we'd be running. We were tweaking it all the time — what works, what doesn't, what's easiest for the kids to understand. We've gotten better every week. Part Dec. 20 | Chamber Transportation Committee meeting Noon, Longhorn
BBQ, 2315 N. Argonne, Spokane Valley. Joe Tortorelli will go over the proposed revenue package for the 2013 Legislative Session from the Transportation Commission. For more: spokanevalleychamber.org.
Dec. 21 | Chamber breakfast "Season of Sharing" 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., Mirabeau Park
Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan, Spokane Valley. The cost for this business connections event is $25 for members and guests, and $35 for nonmembers. Hear from local charities, donate to their causes, and bring an unwrapped toy for the Marines' Toys for Tots program. Register at spokanevalleychamber.org.
HEALTH & RECREATION Nov. 22 | Turkey Trot 8 a.m., Palenque
Mexican Restaurant, 1102 N. Liberty Lake Road, Liberty Lake. Fun run hosted by the Liberty Lake Running Club. For more: kathyawhybrew@msn. com
of it is the kids, part of is we coaches in year one figuring things out. We're not the same team we were five weeks ago." Having a grandfather and father who were both successful coaches, Bartlett said, "I think I always knew I wanted to be a head football coach." He was given opportunities to assist and be defensive coordinator at both University and East Valley before getting his chance. A quarterback in high school, offense is in his blood. "More than anything, I enjoyed making quarterback decisions and putting the ball in the air," Bartlett said. Picked ninth in the GSL prior to the season, a defining moment was when U-Hi shocked Ferris on the way to a 5-4 regular season record. "As a staff, we thought we were better than ninth. When you have 19 starters graduate and no quarterback, I didn't know if it could be accomplished," Bartlett said. But an inexperienced team with an untested quarterback and rookie coach went on to win two playoff games, including the school's first state win, over O'Dea Nov. 10 to be a 3A state quarterfinalist. Surprising? Certainly. "It sounds cliché, but it's everything I hoped it would be and more," said Bartlett of his head coaching debut. "If someone told us at the beginning of the year we'd play O'Dea to reach the final eight, I don't think anyone would have thought we could."
Noteworthy West Valley and East Valley were part of a four-way football title tie in the Great Northern League, though neither made postseason. … EV freshman Brittany Aquino finished third at 2A girls state cross country and WV sophomore McCall Skay was sixth. … CV girls soccer reached the 4A state quarterfinals. Dec. 1 | Warrior Camp MMA Event 7:30
p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo, Liberty Lake. Doors will open at 7 p.m. for the live amateur cage fights. Cost: $20 per person. Tickets are available at Warrior Camp or Feel Good Ink. For more: 754-444-2243
Jan. 5-6 | Health*Beauty spa show
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Spokane Community College Lair, 1810 N. Greene St., Spokane. From anti-aging treatments to massage, this is a fun opportunity for anyone interested in beauty, anti-aging, fitness and lifestyle improvement to explore and sample the latest in products and services. The show brings bite sized sample therapies and treatments to consumers at the same $5 price point from all participating salons and spas. Admission $7. For more: www. healthbeautyshow.com All calendar listings were provided to or gathered by Current staff. If you would like your event considered for the community calendar, please submit information by the 15th of the month to firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Current
46 • December 2012 26
Volume 1, Issue 11 Editor/publisher
Josh Johnson
firstname.lastname@example.com General Manager
Tammy Kimberley
firstname.lastname@example.com Senior account Janet Pier executive firstname.lastname@example.com
account Cindy Esch executive email@example.com graphics editor
Sarah Burk
Office manager
Kelli Dexter
Mike Wiykovics
firstname.lastname@example.com Contributors
Kyle Hansen Craig Howard Chad Kimberley Chuck King Valerie Putnam
Jim Ryan Heidi Scott Craig Swanson Mike Vlahovich Bill Zimmer
On the cover: Current cover concept by Sarah Burk
The Current 2310 N. Molter Road, Suite 305 Liberty Lake, WA 99019 P: 242-7752; F: 927-2190 www.valleycurrent.com
The Current is published monthly. It is distributed by or before the first of each month to more than 185 drop-off locations in Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Rockford, Otis Orchards, Newman Lake — just about anywhere that has historically been referred to as part of Spokane's Valley.
distributed near the end of each month at more than 185 locations from Newman Lake to Rockford, from Stateline to Havana. A list of drop-off locations along with corresponding Google maps is available at www. valleycurrent.com. The Current can be found at the following locations (organized alphabetically by community and then by street proximity):
Liberty Lake Accra-Fab, Adhara Salon & Spa, Albertsons, Alliant building, Anytime Fitness, Barlows Restaurant, Camping World, Carl's Jr., Chevron, City Hall, Curves, Ding How, Dominos, Edward Jones, Expect A Lot Visual Images, Great Clips, Great Harvest Bread Co., Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, Greenstone, John L. Scott, Just Chillin' Frozen Yogurt, KiDDS Dental, Liberty Lake Athletic Club, Liberty Lake Golf Course, Liberty Lake Library, Mario & Son, McDonald's, MeadowWood Golf Course, Palenque Mexican Restaurant, Papa Murphy's, Pawpular Companions, Quiznos, Rockwood Liberty Lake Clinic, Rockwood Urgent Care Center, Safeway, San Francisco Sourdough, Seasons Cafe, Supercuts, Trailhead Golf Course, True Legends Grill, Twisp Cafe and Coffee House, Walgreens, Washington Trust Bank
Mica, Rockford and Valleyford Fairfield Library, Freeman School District office, FredNecks, Freeman Store, Hurd Mercantile Gift Mall, Harvest Moon, On Sacred Grounds, Rockford Mini Mart
Millwood Albertsons, Anytime Fitness, Argonne Library, City Hall, The Corner Door Fountain and Books, Dairy Queen, Great Clips, Rocket Bakery, Rockwood Urgent Care Center, Papa Murphy's, Walgreens, West Valley School District
Newman Lake and Otis Orchards Exxon Gas Station, Jack and the Bean Shop, Kaleo, KH Grocery Market, Otis Grill, Otis Orchards Library, River City Pizza, Sweet Tooth Bakery & Espresso
Spokane Valley Off or near Barker Road Central Valley School District, Cozy Coffee, GTX Roadside Grill, Hico Village, HUB Sports Center, K Salon, King's Restaurant, Lone Wolf Harley-Davidson, ScrumDiddilyUmptious Donuts, Ziggy's
Off or near Sullivan and Evergreen Roads
Deadlines: The deadlines for submitting story ideas or placing advertising vary slightly with each issue. To be safe rather than sorry, consider the 15th of each month the cutoff point to be considered for inclusion in the following month's Current.
Subscriptions Subscriptions for U.S. postal addresses cost $12 for 12 issues, or $24 for 12 issues to addresses outside of Spokane or Kootenai counties. Send a check and subscription address to P.O. Box 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019 or call 242-7752 for more information.
Correction policy The Current strives for accuracy in all content. Errors should be reported immediately to 2427752 or by e-mail to email@example.com. Confirmed factual errors will be corrected on this page in the issue following their discovery.
Advertising Integrity Inaccurate or deceptive advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should be made in writing to the Better Business Bureau and to advertise@ valleycurrent.com. The Current is not responsible for the content of or claims made in ads.
Copyright © 2012 All rights reserved. All contents of The Current may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Wondering where you can find The Current? ZAYCON Around 10,000 free copies of The Current are
Ace Hardware, Auto Licensing Plus LLC, The Brickhouse Massage and Coffee Bar, Carl's Jr., Casey's Place, Clark's Tire & Automotive, Dairy Queen, Donna's Diner, Fitness Center Valley, Forza Coffee Co., Froyo Earth, Great Clips (Broadway), Halletts Market & Cafe, Harvest Foods, Hastings, Jack in the Box, McDonald's (Broadway), McDonald's (N. Sullivan), Mirabeau Park Hotel, Mongolian BBQ, Oz Fitness, Rockwood Valley Clinic, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Round Table Pizza, Safeway, Schlotzsky's, Sport Clips, Subway (Broadway), Swagat Indian Cuisine, Walgreens, Zelia's, Zip's
Spokane Valley Mall area Arby's, Barnes and Noble, Bean Positive, Krispy Kreme, Outback Steakhouse, Oxford Suites, Perala's Hair Design, River View Corporate Center, Spokane Valley Senior Center, Thomas Hammer Coffee, Twigs, YMCA
Off or near Pines and University Roads Arby's, Albertsons, Buck's Pizza, Burger King, Careful Cleaners, Centerplace, Cuppa Joe's Cafe, Dairy Queen, East Valley School District office, Fiesta Grande, Flamin' Joe's, Galaxy Grind, Giorgio's Fitness Center, Halpin's, HuHot Mongolian Grill, Jack in the Box, Little Euro, McDonald's, Northwest Orthopaedic Specialists, O'Doherty's Irish Pub and Grill, Peters Hardware, Qdoba, Quiznos, Ringo's Casino, Ron's, Salon Tonya, Senor Froggy's, Spokane OB/ GYN building, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum, Spokane Valley Library, Spokane Valley Partners, Starbucks, Subway, Thrifty Scotsman, Uniforms-N-More, Valley Hospital ER, Valley Hospital Outpatient, Value Village, Walgreens, White Elephant
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benefit the company extols is safety. "It's probably the safest delivery of direct meat products you could have," Conrad said. "The box isn't opened. It goes directly from the processor to your kitchen table." The system used to account for each sale allows the company to track purchases. That way, if a product is recalled, customers can be notified immediately. J.C. Conrad, Conrad's brother, conceived the idea in 2001. At the time, he was the meat manager in a Utah grocery store. He posted sign-up sheets at the store's registers to see if he could sell cases of chicken. "He had over 1,000 people sign up," Conrad said. "He purchased 100,000 pounds of chicken; costing $250,000.He sold it all in three days." After working several different jobs, J.C. returned to Spokane to be close to his father, who was in ill health. When he was laid off from a construction job, he decided to try expanding his original idea. In fall 2009, he held the first sales event in Spokane. "There was no website; it was all word of mouth," Conrad said. "He found a parking lot and sold 800 cases of boneless skinless chicken breast." Partnering with Brandon Berezay, the two men named the company Zaycon Foods. "They took parts of each other's last names," Conrad said about how the company was named. "They took 'Zay' and added 'Con.'" The company's growth has come mostly by word of mouth, using very little marketing. "We've grown 1,000 percent from 2010 to 2011," Conrad said. "1,000 percent from 2011 to 2012, and 100 percent this year, which is still a big number." Conrad and Kremin became involved in the company part time in 2009, becoming full-time in 2010. "J.C. kept asking for more help," Kremin said. "We worked for free for over a year. We saw the vision, saw the dream."
Off or near Argonne and Havana Roads Ben's Yogurt and Deli, The Black Diamond, Broadway Diner, Caruso's, Casa De Oro, Chan Bistro, Chester Store, Cottage Cafe, Curves, Global Fitness, Goodtymes Bar and Grill, Hico Village, Jack in the Box, Jenny's Café, Longhorn BBQ, McDonald's (Argonne), McDonald's (Havana), Papa Murphy's, Puerto Vallarta, Rite Aid, Safeway, Savageland Pizza, Skyway Cafe, Smacky's on Broadway, Spokane Club, Subway, Terry's Breakfast & Lunch, Valley Bowl, Yoke's Fresh Market, Zip's (Broadway), Zip's (Trent)
We're always on the lookout for business and community partners willing to be drop-off points! If you are interested in carrying this monthly publication in your place of business, please contact our circulation manager at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Index of advertisers Aging & Long Term Care of E WA Air Control Heating & Electric Inc. Appleway Florist & Greenhouse Barlows Restaurant Careful Cleaners Caribbean Heat Tanning Salon Casey's Place Christmas on the Palouse Clark's Tire & Automotive Just Chillin' Frozen Yogurt Kathrine Olson DDS
13 3 2 11 7 13 5 11 3 6 15
Working to grow the company nationally, Conrad and Kremin spent six months researching blogs from all around the country. Upon choosing 380 specific bloggers to test out their product, Conrad marketed those in the southern half of the United States, and Kremin the north. Each set out last July on a cross country adventure to deliver a 40-pound case of chicken to each of the 380 bloggers' homes. In return, they asked for them to try the product and write a review. Following the nationwide delivery, Zaycon hosted a "roll out America" chicken sale at $1.49 a pound, the lowest price ever offered. "It was the craziest thing, as soon as we opened it up we just watched the numbers go up," Conrad said of viewing sales come into the website. "It was like, 'Oh my gosh, what the heck is happening?'" This past year, Berezay and J.C. Conrad decided to leave the company and pursue other interests, and Conrad and Kremin took control. As a way of saying thank you to their customers, the company offers a referral reward program. Once a customer becomes registered, they are issued a special referral link which can be sent to friends and family. If someone clicks through the link, the customer receives a dollar referral credit for each order placed. Conrad plans on using this system to help nonprofit organizations and churches with their programs. Instead of the referral link being tied to an individual, it is tied to the organization. "It's an easy way to raise funds for people and help them," Conrad said. "So many organizations are excited to get involved because it's easy." Beginning early next year, the company is launching an app to give customers ability to purchase product easily when sales events open. According to Kremin, the long-term vision is to provide product to millions of people in every metropolitan area in the country. "It's just amazing what we are doing," Conrad said. "There is no one doing what we are doing. There are other food companies, sure. But they're not like us."
Delivered free to 185+ businesses in the greater Spokane Valley area and by subscription to residential homes. The Current is possible because of its advertisers. Following are the local advertisers in this month's Current. Please consider them when offering your patronage.
KiDDS Dental Lakeside Vision PLLC Legacy Animal Medical Center Liberty Lake Orthodontics Liberty Lake PORTAL Liberty Lake PORTAL Millwood Liquor Store Music Together Northwest Insurance Brokers Numerica Credit Union On Sacred Grounds
17 5 13 3 9 20 5 2 11 11 6
Oxi Fresh of the Inland Northwest 7 Peters Hardware 13 Robert C Hahn III Attorney 13 Rockwood Health System 28 Spokane OBGYN 13 Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce 10 STCU 2 Uniforms N More 6 Union Gospel Mission Thrift Store 3 Valley Hospital 5 Zip's Drive In 7
The Current
PARTING SHOTS Indoor Golf a lot like outdoor golf: fun, and I'm still terrible
December 2012 • 27 47
Growing up in Liberty Lake, I spent a lot of time on the golf courses and played several rounds with my three brothers, Bo, Zak and Mike. These days, I'm lucky to ever hit the course, so when the opportunity arose to get the brothers back together for a foursome (for the first time in my fastly fading memory), I jumped at the chance. We would play 18 holes at Pebble Beach, carrying our own clubs and our own Pepsi, just like the old days. Only this time we played in November, indoors and aiming at targets projected on a huge screen.
Current photos by Josh Johnson
Pebble Beach Golf Course is displayed on the monitor at Indoor Golf in Spokane Valley following a chip shot. Below, from left, Mike, Zak and Bo Johnson joined brother and Current Publisher Josh Johnson for 18 virtual holes on the iconic course. At left, Bo stumbles upon a book called, "Golf for Dummies." Alas, it was too late. At the time of discovery, he was 55 strokes over par.
Indoor Golf, located at 19223 E. Appleway Ave. on the eastern fringe of Spokane Valley, allows the opportunity to play year round. Although indoors, you swing real clubs at real balls cradled by real tees. The virtual part of the game is the course, but high-tech cameras measure data like your swing speed and contact point to simulate your shot on screen. They even have golf professionals on staff to analyze your swing and give lessons. Which begs the question: How true to real life can a virtual golf simulator be? I can only speak for those who have never been good at the game to begin with. My conclusion: A hacker is a hacker is a hacker. Outdoors or indoors, at Pebble Beach or at the local putt-putt. This is not a fancy video game. I know fancy video games. I tend to be able to pick up on them capably. I have never shot triple digits in a video game version of golf. While my game was incredibly true to form, unfortunately so were my brothers. Zak and Mike, the youngest of the siblings, both played golf at Central Valley High School. They know their way around a course, real grass or otherwise. Bo and I, on the other hand, played tennis at CV chiefly because the coach didn't cut players.
By Josh Johnson Current staff column
Bo hadn't played a round of golf since he earned his driver's license, which doesn't make sense until you understand that the only reason he played before that was because Gramps let him drive his golf cart. "I can't remember ever shooting less than 200 for 18 holes," Bo said as we warmed up. As the first few holes progressed, and it was Bo's turn to shoot yet again, Zak admonished him jokingly with a line our golf sensei, Uncle Bill, was famous for saying: "Slow play is the nemesis of golf." "I am the nemesis of golf," Bo corrected. It's always great to play with someone who is just there to have fun. A few highlight's from Bo's round: • Short with a driver on a 103yard par 3. • Had his cell phone conjure up a "fail trombone" sound effect after particularly poor shots. • Typical club selection: "Where's that silvery one you guys gave me that one time?" Meanwhile, Zak was playing with a golf glove on and Mike was driving the ball 314.5 yards at his peak. The two talked golf trash talk to one another, polite but pointed. Also, their scores were better. They would probably tell you, because they play the game well, that where the simulator is toughest to replicate real life is the short game — chipping and putting. I didn't fare much better or worse at any of it and still had a great time — just like a normal round at the links to me. Faring just fine, thank you very much, was Indoor Golf 's Jeremy Mott. He was striking
IF YOU GO ... Indoor Golf Contact: 19223 E. Appleway Ave., 290-6695 (call ahead for tee times) Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Cost: $30 per hour (about 18 holes for one player) Website: www.indoorgolfspokane.com Courses: 15 courses, including Pebble Beach and a visually stunning course at Banff, Canada. Extras: Discounts are available for purchasing a series, and food and beverages are also sold. balls at the "course" next door and at last glance was under par. Mott, who is also the assistant pro at Trailhead Golf Course down the street a mile or two in Liberty Lake, helped us run the machines and pick up on the intricacies of putting. That part of the virtual golf, I admit, felt the most like a video game, with players "reading" the break on the screen by following arrows that indicate slope. Speaking of video games, Mott also showed us fun games that could be played on the machine. In one, you "kick" field goals by hitting golf balls through the uprights from 100 yards out. In another, an abandoned building with rows of windows is shown. Players get points for breaking the windows. Which reminded me, come to think of it, of a certain long-ago day at MeadowWood. Yep, Indoor Golf is a lot like playing real life. Josh Johnson is editor and publisher of The Current. Write to him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
48 • December 2012 28
The Current
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