The 2022 version of the Apple Cup is set for Nov. 26 in Pullman and you can rest assured Mike Peterson will be wearing crimson.
It was 40 years ago that the in-state football rivalry between Washington State and the University of Washington took place on a cold, overcast evening on the Palouse with Peterson lining up as a senior wide receiver for the Cougars. WSU came in as an injury-riddled 24-point underdog, sporting an underwhelming 2-7-1 record. The Huskies stood at 9-1, ranked fifth in the nation.
“All the Huskies had to do was win and they’d go to the Rose Bowl,” Peterson said.
Washington went up 17-7 at halftime but the tables began to turn early in the third quarter when Washington State recovered a fumble on the UW 28-yard line. The Cougars closed to within 17-14 when quarterback Clete Casper found Peterson for a 6-yard touchdown. The play served as a springboard to a stunning 24-20 WSU upset that is still ranked by many as the most memorable Apple Cup ever.
“It snowed the morning of the game,” Peterson recalls. “We just knew. No matter what anyone said, we felt we could win.”
The final game of Peterson’s career at WSU concluded as improbably as his tenure in Pullman began. An unheralded walk-on, he had played two years at Wenatchee Valley College and transferred to Eastern Washington University following an injury. After being accepted to the Mechanical Engineering program at WSU, he decided to try out for football with one year of eligibility left.
After emerging from the rigorous process that eliminated around 80
would-be qualifiers for the roster, Peterson was told by an assistant coach that he was part of the team but would begin at the bottom of the depth chart.
“I said, ‘Coach, I’m here to start and help WSU win games,’” Peterson said. “It was a statement of conviction not arrogance.”
Within three varsity practices, Peterson had climbed up the list of a dozen wide receivers. Several practices later, he moved up again, following a breakthrough touchdown catch of 70 yards in full stride.
“Mentally, I had to get through my head that I belonged,” Peterson said. “I still had that question, ‘Can I get open at this level?’ After that catch, I knew I could.”
Peterson went on to lead the team in receptions and receiving yards that season while sharing the lead in touchdown catches. He graduated from WSU in January of 1984 with a degree in engineering. That same year, he married his high school sweetheart, Robin, a micro-biology major at WSU. They have been married for 39 years.
The two met while students at University High School where Peterson was a three-sport star in football, basketball and baseball. Peterson’s family moved to Spokane Valley from north Spokane before the start of his eighth-grade year at Bowdish Junior High.
In football, Peterson developed into a top-flight receiver thanks in no small part to lessons learned at a quarterback/receiver camp held each summer at Whitworth. NFL standouts like Ken Stabler, Fred Biletnikoff, Jim Zorn and Steve Largent served as coaches. At U-Hi, Peterson’s coach was Dave Holmes who brought experience from the college level at Eastern Washington and the University of Hawaii. Holmes had also coached Peterson’s dad, Dennis, at North Central High.
The oldest of three boys, Peterson grew up around sports. His dad – a three-sport athlete at NC – coached his son’s teams and served as a college basketball and football official which meant Mike having access to the sidelines as a kid.
“My parents were awesome,” Peterson said. “My dad was a real
role model.”
By the time he graduated from U-Hi in 1978, Peterson had achieved All-GSL first team status in baseball and football and second team honors in basketball. The next stop would be Portland State on a football and baseball scholarship.
At EWU, Peterson was tabbed as a starter but fell ill and missed the first three games of the season. A slow comeback followed before he decided to transfer to WSU as a student.
“I learned major lessens from my junior year at EWU before moving on to WSU,” he said.
After WSU, Peterson latched on with IBM in Spokane, the beginning of a successful career in the technology field spent largely in sales and management. Other stops for Peterson have included Sysco, F5, Tanberg and Telect where he worked as global vice president. He is currently employed as an account manager with Palo Alto Networks.
“I’ve been able to ride the wave of technology,” Peterson said.
Peterson’s journey as an athlete didn’t quite end after the Apple Cup victory years ago. He established himself as an elite modified fastpitch softball player, earning All-American honors seven times and contributing to iconic teams like the 1995 National Championship club based in Spokane that went 42-0. Peterson batted .532 that season, part of a career that eventually landed him in the Region 9 Softball Hall of Fame.
As a proud dad of three children – Bryan, Mitch and Leah – Peterson made time to coach his kids’ youth teams. All three excelled as studentathletes at West Valley High School with Bryan, the oldest, being drafted by the Boston Red Sox and playing minor league baseball before returning to college as a standout quarterback at Whitworth. Mitch earned a baseball scholarship to WSU before walking on to the football team like his dad where he became a starting defensive back. Leah played volleyball at Pacific University and later Spokane Falls Community College before coaching
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These days, Peterson can be heard as a color commentator for football, basketball and baseball on KHQ and SWX. His broadcasting career began in 2006 for the Spokane Shock. He has also been in the booth with ESPN3 for coverage of the NAIA World Series.
Q: You excelled at three sports in high school and your kids followed suit at West Valley. Yet it seems like we are seeing more specialization in sports at that level and fewer prep athletes competing in more than one sport. What is your opinion of that trend?
A: I am not a fan of specializing. I believe in the “entire experience” and that means experiencing as many sports as possible. It builds diversity of skills, training and meshing with different sets of teammates. If you are an all-round athlete and like multiple sports, I say “play them all.” It brings balance to your life and social circles. The benefits of physical crosstraining from each sport helped me build skills that translated from each sport to the next. My observation is that specializing is usually driven by parents and coaches of select teams, less so by the athlete themselves.
Q: What did you learn about yourself in the process of not only walking onto the roster at Washington State but becoming an important part of an NCAA Division-1 program?
A: At the end of my junior year at EWU, I transferred to WSU to pursue an engineering degree. EWU did not offer engineering degrees at that time. After my first semester at WSU, I was accepted into the college of Mechanical Engineering program – a major academic goal achieved. Being a transfer from EWU burned that first year at WSU as a redshirt year leaving me left with a single year of eligibility. I continued to train as though I was still playing. Watching the Cougs play that fall, I knew I could compete and contribute at the PAC-10 level. I attended walkon tryouts at the end of the 1981 football season. I developed an inner strength that was tested at a very high level. I learned three key lessons – Have a vision; trust that vision and be determined to make that vision a reality. Those lessons learned have helped me achieve success in many aspects of my life.
Q: During your accomplished
career as an official, how often did you look back and think of how you viewed and treated referees when you were an athlete? Would your perspective have been different with the knowledge and experience gleaned during your time with a whistle?
A: Having played organized sports from 8 years old, through middle school, high school and college, I had a mindset of not getting wrapped up with the officiating. My mindset was to simply go about my own business and help my team win. I think this approach comes from being the son of a high-level college football and basketball referee. In that regard my perspective hasn’t changed. I was very fortunate to have a father who was my role model, coach and mentor. He was an amazing father to me and my two brothers Tim and Dan.
Q: On the broadcasting side, what do you try to bring to a game that will help viewers appreciate the behind-the-scenes aspects that you recognize as a former athlete?
A: Being a TV color commentator has been so much fun. I try to bring a blend of many different perspectives to a broadcast. Those elements are from the eyes of the players, coaches, referees and viewers. I enjoy teaching and educating, so I attempt to craft my messaging to the viewers in an educational manner. Examples are different schemes, key matchups, clock/situational analysis and the rules of the game. I also like to have fun facts, interesting statistics and personal stories of players and coaches. I guess that touches on my life philosophy – stay balanced and have fun.
Q: What elements from your experience as an athlete have benefited you in the business world?
A: So much of what I learned as an athlete playing team sports has directly translated into the business world. I go back to what I touched on earlier and here are my five keys to achieving success: 1) Have a vision of what you want to accomplish 2) Belief that you can accomplish that vision 3) Have a plan to drive to success of that vision 4) Be determined to do the work, day-byday, to see that vision become reality. 5) Have fun through the entire process. Those five fundamentals have helped me immensely not only in my career but have carried over to virtually every aspect of my life.
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The maps provided depict where citizens have reported Vehicle Thefts, Burglaries, Malicious Mischief and Thefts. The Spokane Valley Police Department and the Spokane County Sheriff’s office analyze this data to determine high crime areas and where to allocate resources. Citizens who have been a victim of crime are encouraged to call 911, if the crime is in progress, or Crime Check at 509-456-2233, if not in progress, to report a crime.
The Stormwater Utility, an enterprise fund, is funded through the collection of Storm and Surface Utility (Utility) fees from developed parcels located within the City, and the Spokane County Aquifer Protection Area (APA) fee. The Stormwater Utility Fee of $21 per year is assessed uniformly on single family residences, duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes. All other developed property is charged $21 for every 3,160 square feet of measured impervious surface area. The current stormwater rate is expected to generate about $1.9 million in 2022 to City Fund 402. The fee was established when the City incorporated and is in the adopted Master Fee Schedule. The Stormwater Utility Fee has not increased since 2003.
The APA fee, a voter adopted fee, is imposed on each water meter within the City by water meter size. The APA funds are collected by
Spokane County, county-wide and distributed proportionately to local jurisdictions. APA funds must be “expended entirely on stormwater related projects that are designed to protect the aquifer.” Without a regional public vote, this fee will sunset in November of 2024. This fee is expected to generate about $460,000 in 2022.
The City has recently developed a Stormwater Utility Plan to establish the long-term goals of the Utility, identify solutions to adverse stormwater conditions, aging and non-standard stormwater facilities, address capacity and water quality issues, identify strategies necessary to ensure compliance with the MS4 permit and UIC programs, and develop a sustainable financial plan for the utility. The Stormwater Utility Plan identified two Level of Service (LOS) recommendations, Minimum Required and Pro-Active. The Levels of Service recommendations guided a Stormwater Utility Rate Study and recommendations for potential stormwater utility rate structures
and fees.
The Minimum Required LOS, if adopted, will increase the Stormwater Utility Rate by $24/ year to $45/year. This rate increase includes funding for an additional 3.0 full time employees (FTEs). Currently, there are 4.13 FTEs funded by the Stormwater Utility. The estimated 2023 revenue for this LOS is $4.4 million.
The Pro-Active LOS, if adopted, will increase the Stormwater Utility Rate by $37/year to $58/year. This rate increase includes funding for an additional 7.0 FTEs from the existing staffing levels and is expected to provide $5.6 million in annual revenue.
While the City Council had different opinions on the matter the Council ultimately voted to implement the Pro-Active Plan and raised the Stormwater Utility Rate to $58/year beginning in 2023 with Councilmembers Wick and Peetz against the Pro-Active plan preferring to implement the Minimum LOS plan for 2023.
Legislative Agenda Adopted
The City Council adopted its 2023 State Legislative agenda with the top priorities being: A $5 million state funding allocation to complete the funding of the Pines Grade Separation Project. The City had received a federal grant in this last summer but it requires a nonfederal match which is what the city is seeking from the state. Funding for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program and Land Water Conservation Funds which could provide the city with upto $1.5 million for the Phase 2 of the Greenacres Park. Funding for the Youth Recreational Facilities program and the Building for the Arts program which are recommending allocations of $3+ million towards the Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center. Support for the Minor League Baseball Stadiums seeking $24 million of state funds to assist with the upgrades for publicly owned stadiums, including Avista Stadium across the state. On the Policy side, the city is also advocating for public safety reforms around possession of a controlled substance, vehicular pursuits, and funding for alternative police response teams,
and law enforcement training opportunities; removal of barriers to the construction of housing; amendments to the state law regarding municipal utility taxing authority; general tax relief; and local decision-making authority.
With the Cities decision to withdraw from the regional Tourism Promotion Area, Visit Spokane the regional Destination Marketing Organization which gets a large portion of those funds provided notice that they will no longer be including Spokane Valley facilities or events in their website or promotions without future funding. They provided a proposal to continue the inclusion of Spokane Valley events and hotels however the city staff hosted a meeting of the Spokane Valley based hotels with Visit Spokane to discuss the proposal and the hotels voted with 10 of the 18 valley hotels recommending to not continue working with Visit Spokane for marketing and only 2 hotels wanting to find an agreement with Visit Spokane. City Manager John Hohman commented that other options will be brought forward for what the city can do to provide some destination marketing for Spokane Valley.
Balfour Park Project is the buildout of the park surrounding the new Spokane Valley Library Building being built along Sprague Ave. The park was broken into multiple phases for the development with Phase 1 consisting of the main park infrastructure including excavation and grading, water, electric and sewer utilities, some of the park pathways and lighting system, the easterly parking lot, some landscaping/irrigation, and the new restroom building. This phase was bid out in February of 2022 but the lowest bid came back at $5 million whereas the budget was only $3.1 million. So the city decided to update the design to find costsavings opportunities. Staff returned with an alternate design documents in hopes of getting the cost down by moving different elements of the park into bid alternates. The largest of those was the separation of the restroom building (at an estimated cost of $950,000). After some discussion the Council decided to include the restroom apart of the
base bid to minimize the rework of adding it later and gave consensus to allocate another $1,000,000 towards the project from unallocated money in the capital projects fund. The project is planned to go out to bid in December with a bid opening in January and possible construction in 2023.
The Spokane Valley City Council meets each Tuesday beginning at 6pm and all meetings are open to the public in person as well as available online via zoom. While it is preliminary and subject to change the city council is planning on discussing the following items for the rest of the year.
Nov 22nd, action is expected on: Law Enforcement Contract Renewal and the Comprehensive Plan Docket. Administrative reports include the 2023 Fee Schedule, and the Spokane Valley Fire Department Monthly Report
Nov 29th, is cancelled due to the Thanksgiving day holiday.
Dec 6th includes a special meeting with our local state legislators beginning at 4pm to review the upcoming state legislative session and the cities priorities. Then at the 6pm regular session action is expected on an appointment to the Spokane Housing Authority Board and reports on the Federal Legislative Agenda, CenterPlace Catering, Sprague Ave Stormwater Project (this was the project that had a demonstration held during the beginning of October), Chronic Nuisances, Right-ofWay Maintenance, and Pavement Management Program Funding Options.
Dec 13th action is anticipated on Street & Stormwater Maintenance and Repair services contract, the Street Sweeping Service Contract, CenterPlace Catering Contract, and the Lodging Tax Awards. Reports will be held on Sullivan / Trent Interchange designs, Graffiti Abatement Program, and an update on Annexation.
Dec 20th action is anticipated on the Sullivan/Trent Interchange design selection and reports will be held on Neighborhood Restoration and a River Loop Trail Update.
Dec 27th meeting has been cancelled due to the Christmas Holiday.
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This guide has been made with our community in mind. We have made a tradition of gathering as many offerings from the heart of our community, small businesses.
Shops have been suffering. These hard working people have been doing their best to keep to keep their doors open in order to keep serving all of you. We hope that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses to choose one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long. These establishments will guide you to“Eat, Shop and Be Merry.”
Ben Wick, Publisher
509-922-6252, 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley
As the holidays approach, MAX at Mirabeau offers Family Dinner Packs To-Go Menu seven days a week! These dinners feed 4 to 6 people and are available from 4pm to 8pm daily. Please order by 8pm the day before pick-up. Available Curbside, To-Go or by Delivery!
Ferraro’s
509-928-2303, 11204 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Family owned and operated Italian restaurant. Very family friendly. Take out - curbside pick up we are masked up and sanitized to serve you in a safe environment. Family style dinners (feed 4-5) off the mama classic entrées and take n bakes still available!
Craft and Gather
509-290-5141,
Mica, Spokane Valley
LaLozy
509-924-3023, 13917 E Trent, Spokane Valley
If you haven’t yet discovered this unique establishment, get ready! Although they look like just a coffee shop, they also serve fresh, made from scratch, Asian food that you will sure enjoy and be coming back for more. Since discovering this place last year it has become a staple for us. All of their dishes are made to order, using their signature sauces that are made from scratch, using NO MSG. And the couple that owns the establishment is so nice every time.
Conley’s
True Legends
509-795-1243, 1803 N Harvard Rd. Liberty Lake
Now serving a new burger menu! “Legendary Movie Villians”. We offer curbside pickup and delivery. Visit www.TrueLegendsGrill.com and place your order.
Longhorn Barbecue
509-924-9600, 2315 N Argonne, Spokane Valley
A longtime family favorite in Spokane Valley. Their sandwiches (beef, turkey, ham, or pork) can be eaten in the restaurant or picked up and taken back to your home to enjoy. Don’t forget their juicy steaks and yummy ribs too!
Shogun
509-534-7777, 20 N Raymond Rd, Spokane Valley
Shogun is a family owned restaurant which has served the community since 1991. Here you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with a professionally trained Hibachi Chef. Offering lunch and take-out options.
When you’ve finished for the day and need a little extra relaxation.
Snow Eater Brewery
509-862-6954, 2325 N Mckinzie Ln, Liberty Lake
Where beer and adventure meet. Gather and celebrate in the kid-friendly and dog-friendly tap room. All are welcome.
Trailbreaker Cider
509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
HGWe have drink options for everyone including our 24 taps of cider, beer rotation and wine. Plus amazing food and fun atmosphere for your night out.
509-903-0888, 21801 E Country Vista Dr., Liberty Lake
Authentic Japanese hibachi style dining. Not only is the food delicious, but the experience is worth checking off your list. Offering take-out options.
Arbor Crest Winery
509-927-9463, 4705 N Fruit Hill Dr, Spokane
Our Tasting Room & Kitchen is open all year round! Come enjoy new meals and wines added to our menu this winter. Tasting Room & Kitchen is open daily from 12:00 - 5:00PM
Millwood Brewing Company
509-368-9538, 9013 E Frederick, Millwood
Millwood Brewing began as a simple idea by a guy who had a passion for really good craft beer. It has become more than just a place that makes beer, it’s where friends meet.
Smokeridge BBQ
509-710-3426, 11027 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11am till 8pm. We have all your favorite BBQ and Sides, Mixed Drinks, Margaritas, and Beer available for Carry Out and/or curbside. Call or text pre-order 7 days a week.
The Boneyard
509-435-6773, 17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
The Boneyard serves craft cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks featuring our syrups and drink mixes. This all age lounge also serves local beer and wine, along with offering light eats to share.
TT’s Old Iron Brewery
509-919-4798, 4110 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley
We’re proud to offer the highest quality barbecue and beers brewed onsite. From our family to yours, we put lots of love and careful attention in each item. We hope you enjoy our work as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.
Barlows
509-924-1446, 1428 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake A favorite since opening in 2009, enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in their friendly atmosphere.
15416 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Family owned and operated, roomy establishment. Go in, choose all your own fruit, vegetables, meats, noodles, and sauces. Watch them cook it up and then enjoy!
The Garden Coffee and Local Eats
509-315-8612, 213 S University, Spokane Valley
This is a must try in Spokane Valley! Foodie Specials: The Merry & Bright Butter Board, Egg Nog French Toast, Seasonal Avocado Toasts, & some fun seasonal coffee & drinks!
See their facebook for holiday classes.
Crimson Hearth
509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
A Eurpoean inspired restaurant specializing in open hearth cooking. Many of the recipes are made-from-scratch and have been passed down generations.
Pint House Burgers and Brews
509-242-3650, 2914 E Mission, Spokane Valley
The second location for owners Josh Blair and business partner Tom Griffiths opened earlier this year. They have remodeled, so stop by to see what they have to offer!
Haymaker Kitchen & Tavern
509-242-3402, 6412 E Trent, Spokane Valley
The new place to hang out in the Valley! Bring your family, bring your friends, or just come in and hang out with us! Elevated pub food and one of the best patios in town.
Hallett’s Market and Café
509-926-4076, 14109 E Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley A longtime Valley favorite for shopping and eating. We will still be OPEN for Take Out, Curbside service and Safe Shopping. Our store is load with Holiday Gifts, Home Décor and Northwest foods. Don’t forget to pick up some goodies for those on your holiday list while you are there!
Caruso’s
509-474-0254, 2314 N Argonne Road., Spokane Valley
Where fresh is a way of life. Bread and pizza dough made, from scratch, daily in our kitchen. Fresh, crisp vegetables. Highest quality meat and cheese that we can buy. Stop by and taste the difference fresh makes.
Ambrosia
509-919-4798, 9211 E Montgomery, Spokane Valley
Great food, fine wine, and special friends… what else is there? Explore our creative menu.
Rancho Viejo 509-927-8428, 14201 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Enjoy a bit of Mexican? Try this family friendly locally owned establishment. Great for large groups. Friendly service with yummy choices. Don’t worry they will let you take home the left overs.
1.The Bike HUB
509-443-4005
12505 E Sprague Ave. #101, Spokane Valley
A friendly, full-service bicycle shop in the heart of Spokane Valley. Go in and let the friendly staff help you, or browse their catalog online. Either way you are sure to find cool gadgets or just the right bike.
2.Uncle’s
509-891-7620
Located within the Spokane Valley Mall
Locally owned shop featuring board games, puzzles, books and more. Online and pick-up options available.
3.Adorkable Flowers and Gifts 509-922-6300
1326 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
Purchase custom or prearranged flowers, candy bouquets, potted plants, collectibles, local artist work, and more.
4. Chocolate Apothecary 509-324-2424
11425 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley
Gourmet chocolate, caramels, gelato, coffee, and tea. Bean to Bar Chocolate made in store.
5. The Bohemian 509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.
6. Elz Tastes & Tea Market 509-315-4036
328 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley
Specialize in an array of of herbs, olive oils sourced from California, balsamic vinegars produced in Modena, Italy, and specialty loose leaf teas sure to please any conesuer.
7. Hallett’s Marketplace and Cafe 509-926-4076
14109 E Sprague Ave., #2, Spokane Valley
The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and the largest variety of huckleberry items, all made in the Pacific Northwest. Curb side pick-up and private shopping options available.
8. Irv’s Rock and Gifts
509-924-5464
11907 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley
For over 50 years Irv, and now his daughter Liz, have been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems. see specials and options on facebook.
9. Pawpular Companions
509-927-8890
21801 E Country Vista Dr. #111, Liberty Lake
The owners, Carl and Mara, and their staff are friendly and knowledgeable and take the time to help you make choices that are best for you and your furry family.
10. Silver Bow Fly Shop
509-924-9998
13210 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley
With a goal of “making fish nervous,” this business focuses on carrying gear that is tried and true for all those who wish to try the art of fly fishing.
11.
509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
An eclectic collection of vintage and one of a kind finds that will last for years. They will be hosting a couple of events this season before they close this location.
12.
509-924-5050
11006 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
This longtime valley business has a large selection of candles, plush, balloons and gift items to choose from along with their beautiful floral arrangements.
509-228-9509
12609 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Original soft peanut brittle, salt water taffy, caramels, butter toffee and chocolate bark. Holiday themed gifts ready for quick pick up. Online shopping and pick-up available.
509-891-1999
14222 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Whether you are coming in alone, with your sweetheart or with a group of friends, we have the spa package to fit your needs. Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!
509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
Your new neighborhood jewelry store with unique custom pieces and some standard favorites.
16. My Favorite Things
208-773-4110
503 E Seltice Way, Post Falls
North Idaho’s premier vendor mall specializing in the interesting and unusual! See their facebook page for sales and special events.
17. Pine Street Market
509-263-2232
12107 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Find unique gifts from over 100 vendors featuring antiques, vintage items, handmade, and one of a kind.
18.
509-413-1369
6206 E Trent, Spokane Valley
Start your Christmas shopping off right this year by shopping local. So may one of a kind treasures!
We have vintage items, used items, new items, and hand made items! If you are looking for a personalized gift we have vendors who can help with that too! Fill your stockings and your hearts with gifts from our local vendors!
509-891-2662
Located near the food court in the Spokane Valley Mall
Here you can find delicacies ranging from fudge and chocolates to caramel apples and ice cream.
509-255-9205
23110 E Knox Ave, Liberty Lake
Liberty Lake Wine Cellars is a boutique winery offering big bold reds from the Red Mountain AVA. All wine production takes place on-site from crush, to fermentation, to barrel aging, to bottling and storage. Come find the perfect gift.
21. 509 MetalWorks
facebook.com/509metalworks
We specialize in the following services: business signs, small fabrication jobs, customized metal art,and more. Contact us to get started on your order!
22. Simply Northwest
509-927-8206
11806 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
They offer the ability to choose, or have them create, unique gifts for any family member or friend this holiday season and all year round. Shop online at simplynorthwest.com. Curbside pick-up and delivery available.
23. Tracy Jewelers
509-893-2929
106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley
Family owned since 1950, they stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.
24. Fleet Feet 509-309-2174
13910 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley
Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is dedicated to supporting Spokane’s running and fitness enthusiast communities by providing quality training programs, educational opportunities and the right footwear, apparel, and supplements to meet your needs.
25.Latah Creek Winery
509-309-3345
3201 N Argonne, Millwood
Since 1982 they have continued to blaze new trails in winemaking, producing new varieties each season along with their acclaimed lineup of established wines. Stop by and check out their wine of the month.
26. Movher 509-300-3930
6010 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley
Holiday Open House Friday, December 9th, 1 - 4 p.m. Featuring tours of our climate controlled wine storage, wine tasting area, vault storage along with information about moving, packing, and cleaning. Hot cocoa and cookies are served and participants have the opportunity to win a cozy Christmas package featuring a holiday blanket, candles, treats and an Amazon Firestick. 27. Cutco 509-701-2130 Tara has been a representative for Cutco for the past 14 years. Cutco is American made kitchen products that are guaranteed forever. Go to her website for more information, www.bladesbytara.com 28. Rebel Junk 360-689-5622 4102 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley Rebel Junk is a vintage flea market with vendors who incorporate Vintage, Shabby Chic, Cottage, Farmhouse, Industrial, Antiques, Pottery Barn Style, Online shopping available at rebeljunk.com. 10-5 Mon.Sat. Curbside pickup, shipping and delivery available. 29. Painting with a Twist 509-413-9892 11703 E Sprague, Suite B3, Spokane Valley No creative or artistic skill needed. Connect with friends and enjoy an evening of paint and fun! 30. Sarah Hamilton FACE 509-210-0228
N Whitman Ln, Suite 210, Liberty Lake Specializes in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation for all ages. Offers and extensive selection of treatments and products. Call or visit to find the perfect gift.
31. Ramax
509-928-1222
31. Ramax
12411 E Empire Ave, Spokane Valley
509-928-1222
12411 E Empire Ave, Spokane Valley
Ramax offers many types of personalized gifts for the holidays. Shop in person, curbside pickup, or delivery.
32. Sculptured Gardens
Ramax offers many types of personalized gifts for the holidays. Shop in person, curbside pickup, or delivery.
509-290-6866
32. Sculptured Gardens
15614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
509-290-6866
Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, high-quality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.
15614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
33. Spokandy
Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, high-quality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.
509-624-1969, 1412 W. Third Ave., Spokane
509-624-1969, 1412 W. Third Ave., Spokane
Chocolates made from tradition, these are sure to find a part to play in yours. For over 100 years this company has been providing us with Murphys, mints, caramels, nut clusters and other treats. For your convenience, place your order and have it delivered to your door.
Chocolates made from tradition, these are sure to find a part to play in yours. For over 100 years this company has been providing us with Murphys, mints, caramels, nut clusters and other treats. For your convenience, place your order and have it delivered to your door.
34. Side Hustle Syrup
34.
509-435-6773
509-435-6773
17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
Side Hustle is a locally owned and operated company providing exceptional syrups made in the Pacific Northwest.
Side Hustle is a locally owned and operated company providing exceptional syrups made in the Pacific Northwest.
35.
35. Papa Murphy Liberty Lake
509-926-7272
509-926-7272
1318 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
1318 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
Now under new ownership. Stop by to tell them congratulations and give yourself a break from cooking with their take and bake pizza offerings.
Now under new ownership. Stop by to tell them congratulations and give yourself a break from cooking with their take and bake pizza offerings.
While out enjoying the magic of the season and spreading Christmas cheer, you may find yourself in need of a little pick me up. Here are some great local shops and drive-thrus to grab a cup of brew so you can finish your list.
1.The Garden
213 S University
M-SAT 7 am – 3 pm
14109 E Sprague
SUN – Th 8 am – 6 pm
F - Sat 8 am – 10 pm
12925 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 AM -9 PM
SAT-SUN 6 AM – 8 PM
4. Fueled Coffee Co
12303 E Grace Ave
M-F 5 AM – 6 PM
SAT 6 AM – 6 PM
SUN 6 AM – 5 PM
5. Wake Up Call
3105 N Pines
EVERY DAY 5 AM – 7 PM
6. LaLozy
13917 E Trent
M-F 5 AM – 7PM
SAT 6 AM -6 PM
7. Shotzy’s
3413 N Sullivan
M-F 4:30 AM – 6:00 PM
SAT 6 AM- 6 PM
SUN 6:30 AM -5 PM
8. Amsterdam Coffee
10525 E Trent
EVERY DAY 8 AM – 6 PM
9921 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 AM – 6 PM
SAT 6 AM – 6 PM
SUN 7 AM – 5 PM
10.
13105 E Sprague
M-S 7 AM – 4 PM
SUN 8 AM – 3 PM
11. White Dog Coffee
1014 N Pines
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT-SUN 6 AM – 6 PM
12. Blissful Blends
9611 E Trent
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 7 am – 5 pm
13.
13325 E Sprague
M-F 6 am – 5 pm
SAT 7 am – 5 pm
SUN 7 am – 4 pm
14. Jacob’s Java
624 N Sullivan
M-S 5 am – 6 pm
SUN 6 am – 6 pm
15.
13112 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 5:30 pm
SAT 6:30 – 5 pm
SUN 7 am -4 pm
16. Walnut Street Perk
15918 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 6 pm
17. Wake Up Call
112 N Evergreen
EVERY Day 5 am – 7 pm
18. Grind Central Espresso
8015 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 5 pm
SUN 6 am – 5 pm
19. Crush Coffee
16923 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 5 pm
SAT 6 am – 5 pm
SUN 6 am – 4 pm
20. Shotzy’s
507 S Pines
M-F 5 am – 5 pm
SAT 7 am – 5 pm
SUN 7 am – 3 pm
21. Whistle Stop
16409 E Sprague
M-F 5 am – 7 pm
SAT-SUN 6 am – 7 pm
22. Wake Up Call
210 N Sullivan
M-SAT 4:30 am – 7:30 pm
SUN 5 am – 7 pm
23. Cafe Perfezione
10510 E Sprague
EVERY Day 5 am – 6 pm
24. Cozy Coffee and Bistro
514 N Barker
M-F 5:30 am – 7:00 pm
SAT 6:30 am – 5 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 4 pm
1604 S Sullivan
M-SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 5 pm 26. White Dog Coffee
7803 E Sprague
M-F 5 am - 6 pm SAT-SUN 6 am – 6 pm 27. International Coffee and Bakery 18209 E Appleway
M-TH 6 am – 3 pm F 6 am – 5 pm SAT 8 am – 5 pm SUN Closed 28. Galaxy Grind
12402 E Saltese
29 32
37. 20 1 23 26
M-F 5:30 am – 4 pm SAT-SUN 7 am – 4 pm 29. 4 Seasons Coffee Roasters
12410 E Indiana
M-F 7am – 4 pm SAT-SUN Closed
39. 7 5 6 3 4 8 9 12 18 35 17 21 22
37 38
34 36
Coffee Stops
30. Wake Up Call
Blissful Whisk 1612 N Barker Rd T-F 6 am 2 pm SAT 8 am – 2 pm SUN-MON Closed 11 15 10 13 2 14 16 19
BocoPOP 21980 E Country Vista Dr M-F 7 am – 7 pm Sat 8 am – 8 pm Sun 8 am – 6 pm 24 25
36. Crazy Beagle 22026 E Country Vista Dr M-F 5:30 am – 6 pm SAT 6:30 am – 6 pm SUN 7 am – 6 pm 30
38. 40 39
Hello, Sugar 1950 N Harvest pkwy Every Day 7 am – 5 pm 33
Wake Up Call 22011 E Country Vista Dr. EVERY Day 5 am – 7 pm 27
When
Enter to win a prize: Stop by Argonne Library to get your Shop Small passport to fill in as you shop.
www.scld.org/shop-small-2022
www.scld.org
Located at 2421 N Discovery Place. This 48,000 sq ft facility has amenities from Family Day Programs and Aquatics (lessons, open swim, and jacuzzi), climbing wall, and workout / sports facilities. You don’t have to be a member to utilize the facility. Day passes are $35 per family. Sometimes it just worth getting escaping the winter weather even for a day.
Liberty Lake Washington
Choose between No Ordinary Zip Line for $99 to $109 per person where: 9 zip lines + 2 hikes + 1 Big Mama (3500′ zip) + 2 amazing guides + 2 UTV rides = The Best Time of Your Life. Or a tree top adventure for $44 to $55 per person with Canoe bridge + wine barrel bridge + high rise tight ropes + tree platforms + UTV rides = Fun in Trees Only Tarzan Has. The math is simple but the choice is hard and may get you thinking about needing to do both. Discounts for groups of 10 people or more.
Historic Flight Foundation
5829 E Rutter Ave in Felts Field.
EXPERIENCE HISTORY IN MOTION Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Admission ranges from $10 to $15 based upon age.
Historic Flight offers a collection of the most important aircraft produced between 1927 and 1957, all restored and airborne again. Our mission goes beyond serving as trustees of an era. We want you to experience the roar of piston engines, watch engineers restore vintage aircraft to flying condition, and view aeronautical displays from every angle.
Located at 3808 N Sullivan Rd #103. Utilizing the TrackMan technology, you can play on iconic courses with 120 courses available, keep playing through the winter weather, get a lesson, or even join a golf league. 30 minutes of Trackman Tee Time for $20 (a golfer can complete 18 holes in about 1 hour) or provide
under 5ft tall
Located at 15310 E. Marietta Ave Ste. 1 Open Jump is generally available from 9:30 AM - 7 PM 7 days a week, though we do shut down for Private Parties which can be after 5 on the weekdays, or any time on Sat. or Sun. Call us if planning on being here on the weekends or after 5 PM on the weekdays. Prices start at $9.75/hr Punch Cards available$80 + tax for 10 jump sessions
Located at 15312 E Sprague Ave open Tuesday through Saturday. Great for all ages, with prices starting at $19 for an hour and special events with dancing to the hottest music under the glow of the Neon Lights, every Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 11pm.
Available Dec 16th through 18th with tickets at $25 for students and $42 per adult. Big Band Christmas features holiday headliner music favorites from yesteryear, featuring the songs of: Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Rosemary Clooney, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and MORE! This special, limited four performance run is sure to get the entire family in the holiday spirit! Also a good choice for those wanting a year round experience, Spokane Valley Summer Theatre produces three shows each year and season tickets are available for $68 per student, $114 for adults or $108 for seniors / military.
12114 E Sprague Ave. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 4pm. Admission between $3 to $6 per person with kids under 7 being free. Come check out the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum which is the largest repository for the heritage of our area from Havana to west of Post Falls, Peone Prairie to Fairfield including Millwood and Liberty Lake. You can also find books about our area or if you want a year round gift, consider a membership for only $30 per family and includes free admission for a year. (Note: The museum is organizing an Ellis Island Smithsonian exhibit to be opened soon).
Brought to you by
As the holiday season approaches and the pressure to find unique and thoughtful gifts intensifies, shopping for a locally made gift is your ideal choice.
The first annual Spokane Valley Winter Market will begin on Thursday December 1st. It is a loving endeavor that is being brought to Spokane Valley by the same group that coordinates and operates the Spokane Valley Farmers Market at Centerplace, the JAKT Foundation. The Winter Market will be held on the Centerplace West Lawn Plaza regardless of weather.
The idea to bring a Winter Market to the Spokane Valley began with John Bottelli, the Director of the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department. He reached out to Katy Lee, the Market Manager for the Spokane Valley Farmers Market and employee of the JAKT Foundation to help bring the Winter Market to life. The JAKT Foundation is a local non-profit whose main goal is to “uplift and bring communities together through events in the Spokane Valley.”
The Spokane Valley Farmers Market just wrapped up its fourth successful year with Katy at the helm in September. She knew that with the loyal and large customer base that the Spokane Valley Farmers Market had, Spokane Valley would be the perfect home for a Winter Market. Katy has a passion for nonprofits and the value they bring to a community. When asked about why she is involved with nonprofits, she shares, “Giving back to the community. It is fun to build something and watch it come to life and fruition. It is the if ‘you build it, they will come’ kind of thing. I love
coordinating events and I love the people I work with. It’s expanded my community so much, so of those people have become my very best friends. It’s really awesome to see that after four years of doing the Spokane Valley Farmers Market how many people have started a store front in Spokane Valley after being at the market. It is fun watching people grow.”
The Spokane Valley Farmers Market is partnering with the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department and team to host and organize the Winter Market.
Unique and thoughtful presents will be easy to pick out with an average of between 20-30 vendors each week. Many of the favorite vendors from the spring and summer Spokane Valley Farmers Market will be setting up a booth at the Winter Market. Items that will be offered include: wood worked creations, soy candles, pet gifts, crochet and knitted items, hand crafted jewelry, soaps, macramé, cupcakes, cookies, frozen beef, spices, olive oil, vinegars, craft hard cider, craft cotton candy, jams, bath bombs, goat milk soap, honey, and much more!
Each week a food truck and the
infamous Swell coffee truck will be serving up delicious eats and drinks to thaw you from the inside out. A beer garden hosted by LeCatering will feature local beers for those above 21 years of age. To keep your hands warm while shopping for the perfect gift, hot cider will be available and warming heaters will be set up throughout the market. Holiday tunes will be playing over the speakers to help set the winter mood.
“You’ll find unique crafts that you won’t buy on Amazon or at Walmart,” Katy shares about her enthusiasm to help bring a winter market to Spokane Valley. “You are still supporting local. I feel like after the farmers market season ends it becomes difficult to support local. You get to meet your vendor and hear about the product. I think that is a larger gift of explaining how it was made and that you met the person who made it, it’s more of an intimate gift than what you can get commercial.”
The Winter Market will be held on Thursday December 1st, 8th, and 15th from 4pm-7pm. Each week the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department will provide crafts and activities for kids and holiday
photo stations throughout the West Lawn Plaza. Guest appearances will include Santa and his elves!
On Saturday, December 17th, there will be a final special indoor and outdoor all-day event, Winter Palaa-za, from 10am-4p. The event will have an area with capped pricing for kids to shop and pick out gifts for loved ones and have them wrapped. There will be free family-oriented activities and crafts provided by the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department.
“I hope that we can start doing lights all around the West Lawn and maybe start doing it in November versus December,” Katy explains about the future of the Winter Market. “It really depends on how this year goes and if the community likes it and people show up. We want it to be successful for vendors too.”
The Winter Market will be a great way to take the whole family out for a bit of time and enjoy the brisk air while browsing some of our local area’s best items. Follow the market and get more information on Facebook and Instagram; search for the Spokane Valley Farmers Market. There will be updates often on the weekly Winter Market and the Winter Palaa-za.
By Craig Howard Current Contributing Editor
The leaves were turning orange and red in southeastern Pennsylvania when Chuck and Lu Stocker made a special trip from Spokane Valley to cheer on their son 29 Octobers ago.
The 1993 World Series pitting the Philadelphia Phillies against the Toronto Blue Jays included Kevin Stocker, a 1988 graduate of Central Valley High School, starting at shortstop for the National League champion Phillies. Stocker’s parents and older brother Steve made sure they were in the stands for both home and away games on baseball’s biggest stage.
On the subway in downtown Philadelphia en route to one World Series game, Lu was wearing a large button pin with Kevin’s picture on it.
“These Phillies’ fans, they know their players,” Chuck said. “They said, ‘Hey, that’s our shortstop, do you know him?’ Well, you can imagine their reaction when Lu told them he was her son.”
Stocker was called up from triple-A in early July that season and quickly secured a spot on the Phillies’ roster, batting .324 in 70 games while playing stellar defense.
“It was extremely exciting for Lu and I and Kevin’s siblings,” Chuck said. “He was given the opportunity to succeed and he did.”
While Philadelphia fell to Toronto in six games that October, Stocker maintains positive memories of his first and only appearance in the Fall Classic. The experience nearly three decades ago was revived this autumn as Stocker’s former team defied the odds and won their first National League pennant since 2009 to earn a World Series bid against the Houston Astros – again falling in six games.
Looking back, Stocker said the pressure and bright lights of the post-season didn’t rattle him,
despite being a rookie.
“I knew I had a job to do,” he said. “I had to focus in.”
At Central Valley, Stocker played on teams that were in the middle of the Greater Spokane League pack and never saw the playoffs. Later, at the University of Washington, he was part of Husky squads that were competitive in the Pac-10 but fell short of any post-season bid.
“That ’93 season was my first experience on that stage, without a doubt,” Stocker said. “At the time, it felt like a piece of cake. As a rookie, I didn’t know what losing was. I got into the World Series but never sniffed it again.”
Stocker was traded to Tampa Bay in 1997 and retired in 2000 as
an Anaheim Angel. He posted a .254 career batting average and a .970 fielding percentage, making only 116 errors in 3,756 chances.
Stocker joined a Philadelphia roster in 1993 that finished in the cellar of the National League East the season before. The team was led by veterans like Darren Daulton, Lenny Dykstra, Curt Schilling and John Kruk who took Stocker under their wing. After his first game – a 20-inning win over the Los Angeles Dodgers – Stocker remembers Daulton standing by his locker while reporters peppered him with questions.
“Darren told me afterward that it was OK to say, “No comment.’” Stocker said.
Mickey Morandini played second base on the ’93 team and recalls Stocker as a reliable teammate “who took a lot of pride in his defense.”
“Kevin was very calm and collected,” Morandini said. “I remember (Phillies assistant coach) Larry Bowa telling him, ‘I don’t care if you get one hit, just catch the ball.’ Well, Kevin gave us a lot more than that.”
Morandini recalls Stocker blending in well with an established team featuring no shortage of personalities.
“We were a veteran team that knew how to win,” he said. “Kevin was able to stay even-keeled and knew how to work through any issues he had.”
Like Morandini – who now works for the Phillies as a team ambassador – Stocker has maintained ties to his former club. He has served as a broadcaster for years and, this season, was a parttime color commentator on radio in addition to games he has called for Pac-12 Network and CBS College Sports.
Stocker, who lives in Liberty Lake with his wife Brooke, said the 2022 version of the Phillies showed postseason promise in Spring Training.
“Even early, I truly felt this team could make the playoffs, probably as a Wild Card,” he said. “The bullpen really carried them and they went into the playoffs at full strength.”
The Phillies’ latest roster includes a player that Stocker can relate to –rookie shortstop Bryson Stott who made his Major League debut at 24. Stocker was 23 when he premiered.
“They brought Stott into Spring Training so he got to know the guys,” Stocker said. “I was a nonroster invite in ’93 and shuffled back and forth between Minor League camp and where the Phillies were, only about a mile away. So when I got called up that July, the guys knew who I was, that I didn’t party or cuss. I was there to work and win games.”
Stocker demonstrated his winning mettle in Game 5 of the World Series with the Phillies facing elimination. His double down the right field line in the second inning knocked in a run and gave
Lily Jones thrives in a variety of arenas at Freeman High School. The senior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is vice president of the National Honor Society chapter. She also serves as ASB treasurer. Jones has contributed to a variety of community service projects while at Freeman, including clean-up efforts on Highway 27 and at Fairview Cemetery in Rockford. As part of the Conservation Club, she promotes recycling and other green campaigns. Jones has participated in Future Business Leaders of American since her freshman year and has competed in FBLA national competitions. She has competed in cross country each year at Freeman and qualified for state as a junior, placing 10th. She also participates in track and advanced to state in the 800 meters last season. Jones represented the Southeast Spokane County Fair as a princess this year.
Senior Ryan Delcour has been one of the catalysts in Freeman High’s bid for a 1A football state title this season. He was named to the Northeast A League first team as a defensive back for the second consecutive year and was also named first team wide receiver. During the regular season, Delcour had 28 catches for 487 yards. In a game against Cascade last year, he collected three interceptions. Delcour is a threeyear letter winner for the Scotties who defeated King’s of Seattle in a first round 1A playoff game Nov. 11. In track, Delcour competed in the pole vault for the first time last year and improved from 8 feet to 13 feet, capturing a state title and earning second team all-state honors. He has also lettered in baseball and basketball. Delcour maintains a 3.5 grade point average.
Teacher, public servant, dad, man of faith, community volunteer – all these and more describe Bill Gothmann. The Spokane native served on the Spokane Valley City Council for seven years and was part of the Planning Commission prior to that. Gothmann taught at Eastern Washington University and Spokane Community College for a combined 18 years in the engineering and electronic technician programs. He has his MBA from Eastern, a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Gonzaga and a Master’s in Teaching from Whitworth. Gothmann worked as an engineer for Boeing and was part of the Air National Guard. He is the author of five books and is founder of the Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration. Gothmann serves as an elder with Valley Church of Christ. He and his wife Pam have five kids, 12 grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchildren in their combined family.
Come visit your spokane valley neighborhood FinanCial Center loCated at 615 n sullivan road
Bestselling author of A Man Called Ove, My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry, Britt-Marie Was Here, Beartown, Us Against You, and Anxious People.
Backman discusses his breathtaking new novel, The Winners, the third installment of the Beartown series.
Maya Angelou said, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”
The library offers many resources to help with taping into your creativity and reaching creative goals. You can check out books, DVDs, and CDs. You can take online and on-demand classes at no cost. You can find library programs to try new things. And the library even hosts a website featuring local artists and craftspeople at www. spokanecreators.org.
The good news is that you don’t need to be a professional artist to enjoy the creative process. Anyone can benefit from dabbling in creative activities. Trying and pursuing art can give the mind a respite from worries and also open new avenues of thinking.
Check out these books for advice on how to fit art into busy lifestyles, begin doing art at any age, brainstorm new ideas, and ramp up your creative flow: “Art Thinking,” by Amy Whitaker; “Art Before Breakfast,” by Danny Gregory; “Old in Art School,” by Nell Irvin Painter; “Steal Like an Artist,” by Austin Kleon; and “Fishing for Elephants,” by Larry Moore.
To pique children’s interest in arts and crafts, it’s helpful to focus on the process rather than what the final “product” will look like. In fact, focusing on process is what allows artists of all ages to break out of preconceived notions and create something new and exciting!
It’s also a good practice to encourage children to tell you about their creation rather than to ask, “What is that?” Despite good intentions, the second phrasing suggests the inability to decipher the artwork and can be deflating for a child.
Books to help encourage children’s creativity include: “The Creative Family,” by Amanda Blake Soule; “Anyone Can Teach Art,” by Julie B. Abels; “Dribble Drabble,” by Deya Brashears Hill; and “How to Be an Artist,” by S. Natalie Abadzis.
Some of our STEM Explorer Kits for elementary-age children and
Ready for School with STEM Kits for pre-kindergarten and kindergartenage children also include creative elements, like building and designing. You can place a hold for one of these kits at www.scld.org/ stem-kits.
When you visit one of our libraries, you’ll find arts and crafts books and other media on our shelves with the call numbers 740 through 770 in both adults’ and children’s sections. You’ll find a multitude books on how to draw, paint, carve, work with clay, knit, take artful photographs, and more.
In our Digital Library, you can explore how-to eBooks and holiday movies, television, and music at hoopla. Create party popcorn, explore crafting and baking you can do with kids, and learn to knit Fair Isle ornaments. Visit www.hoopladigital.com/ collection/13989, and sign in with your library card to get started.
The library’s collection on OverDrive, accessed online and with the Libby app, is filled with a plethora of eBooks for crafting, cooking, baking, and finding new ways to practice self-care and feel inspired this holiday season and into the new year. For eBooks offering projects and ideas for kids and adults, check out the curated booklist “Better with a Sweater: Crafts, Cookbooks & Cozy Reads” at https://scld.overdrive.com/ collection/1265894.
For a focus on holiday baking, explore the OverDrive booklist “Baked for the Holidays” at https://scld.overdrive.com/ collection/1391637.
You’ll also find several resources
for inspiration, patterns, howto videos, and technique tips, including Creativebug (www. scld.org/creativebug), Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center (www.scld. org/hobbies-crafts), and LinkedIn Learning (www.scld.org/linkedinlearning). All you need is your library card.
In Creativebug, you’ll find quick classes on how to make ornaments, a tree skirt, stockings, custom holiday cards, hand-rolled truffles, gifts bags, and more. You’ll also find STEAM and crafting projects for kids as young as 5 years old.
The 3D Printer and The Studio are both available for public use at Spokane Valley Library. Learn more during Drop-in Hours for the 3D Printer on Thursdays, 3–5pm, and during Drop-in Hours at The Studio on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12–4pm.
You can also check for upcoming library programs featuring creative hobbies and activities on our events calendar at www.scld.org/events. In December, you can drop in during the “Holiday Ornaments” program to use our supplies to create an ornament that you can take home. In January, you can pick up a blank postcard from the library to use to create art and return for the February art show.
Some creative classes offered in the library and online sometimes include supplies and require registration. So be sure to sign up before they fill up!
We look forward to seeing what you create! We invite you to take advantage of all the resources available at your local library to get started on your next creative project.
During the winter, it can be difficult to find a fun and affordable event to experience with your family. This year you can make the short trip to the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of handmade giant lanterns at the Northwest Winterfest.
Northwest Winterfest is the brainchild of Charity Doyl, co-chair of Northwest Winterfest, and Sam Song, Executive Director of Northwest Winterfest. They teamed up together after the successful 2015 Washington State Chinese Lantern Festival to bring a similar event to the region each year. The thought was to bring more and keep it local. The team brought on Lee Cameron as co-chair of Northwest Winterfest to help see this idea come to life.
Charity, Sam, and Lee began hosting cultural arts, in-person performances, and other light festivals in 2018. Despite setbacks during the pandemic years, this year is finally the full vision of what the team had dreamt of back in early 2018.
To make the production a reality, the large, welded steel structures have been stored in Tri-Cities until ready to be displayed here in Spokane Valley. There are between 800 and 1,200 separate pieces of lanterns that a team of around 30 artists created fabric for over three months. The fabric is painted either by hand or airbrushed and then assembled onto the lanterns with the LED lights inside.
The lanterns arrived in Spokane in early October after briefly being displayed in Tri-Cities. A team of craftsmen and craftswomen helped repair damage caused by high winds in the Tri-Cities area. It was not until November 14 that the first of the lanterns were set up in their proper position and turned on. The bamboo forest and happy pandas instantly came to life.
This kind of event is typically showcased in larger cities like Chicago, New York or Los Angeles. “We want people who come to feel like it’s something from a big city, but it’s not. Spokane Valley deserves this!” Sam excitedly shares.
When deciding on a location for the event, Charity says the choice was easy. She lives in Spokane Valley and
Sam owns and operates a business in Spokane Valley. They wanted to bring a fun, safe, and educational family event to Spokane Valley.
Northwest Winterfest is an inclusive cultural exchange for people to experience. One such area of inclusivity is the decorated Christmas trees. After making your way through the bamboo forest with beautiful and fun-loving pandas, you will come to the cultural Christmas trees. There are over a dozen intricately hand-painted trees representing many different cultures from artists in and around Spokane Valley. Sindhu Surapaneni, a young Liberty Lake resident, has painted one tree representing India and one tree representing Pakistan. Her brightly colored peacocks seem to come alive when lit up from within by the lights. While strolling through the artisan trees, you will spy little gnomes around the base of Norway’s tree. The art work displays scenes of Scandinavian homes and boats sailing across the seas.
There are three trees that have yet to be adorned with paint. They will be completed during the events for people to stop and watch the process of a local artist creating a work of art. One tree will represent the Japanese culture, one will have scenes from the Middle East, and the last tree will be representative of Spokane and Spokane Valley.
Northwest Winterfest works with over thirty different cultural groups to bring a wide range of art and performances to a stage in one of the bays. “It’s a multi-cultural event that celebrates diversity through the different ways that the holidays or New Year’s Day are celebrated around the world. For an example, [The Philippines] celebrate Christmas the longest. Homes in The Philippines are already decorated and they are already playing Christmas music.” Charity shares about the event. “It’s fun to see how all the different cultures celebrate Christmas!”
This year the event is held indoors away from the elements. This helps to prolong the life of the magnificent art structures by protecting them from color damaging UV rays and snow, wind, and rain damage. Moving the event indoors allows another advantage for people: “they are going to stay here much longer! Cause it is cold outside! We heard kids crying because they wanted to stay. They are not afraid of the cold. But parents are concerned that their kid is cold. And they themselves are cold. But now, they can all stay inside and watch the
performances as long as they’d like,” Sam explains.
Northwest Winterfest is a 501 c(3) non-profit that actively works to give back to the community that supports it. They offer school group tours and other private tours special pricing. They started a way to support charities by giving back $2 of each ticket sale using the charity’s unique discount code during checkout.
Northwest Winterfest will be open December 2nd to January 1st
on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Their hours of operation are Fridays from 5pm-8pm, Saturdays from 4pm8pm and Sundays from 3pm-6pm. Children 10 and under are free. Ticket prices range from $9.90 to $14.00. Parking will be free during the entire event; look for the giant Santa.
Follow Northwest Winterfest on Facebook and Instagram. Search for Northwest Winterfest, or visit their website at northwestwinterfest. com.
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Philadelphia a 2-0 lead that held up and sent the series back to Toronto.
The Phillies led the Blue Jays 6-5 going into the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 6 before Toronto outfielder Joe Carter hit one of baseball’s most iconic home runs, a three-run blast that ended the game and the World Series. Stocker remembers watching the ball sail over his head into the right field seats at the Sky Dome.
“He hit it so high, I didn’t think it would get out,” Stocker said. “I though (Phillies left fielder Pete) Incaviglia was going to catch it at the wall. I remember Carter running by me and celebrating. He made a good swing on the pitch.”
Since Stocker had not been on the roster for the entire season, he earned half the $95,000 share allotted to each player on the World Series runner-up. He would remain in Philadelphia for four more seasons before being traded. Along with 846 games at the Major League level, Stocker belongs to an exclusive group of only 14 percent of players to compete in a World Series.
“I look back now and realize how special it was,” Stocker said. “I was blessed to be there.”
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When walking into Breaüxdoo, you will be instantly greeted by a bright red chandelier hanging in the middle of a black-walled store with shining clear display cases showcasing a wide range of desserts.
The bakery was conjured in the mind of Gage Lang in 2016. He wanted to create a space where rock and roll and delicious treats could live in harmony together.
Gage, the owner of Breaüxdoo (The Gold Tooth Baker), has roots in Spokane Valley as a hard-core, gothrock musician. He was the lead front man of the band Stigmata Dolls while attending University High School and subsequently graduating in 2014. During his days as a bona fide rockstar with an online following, he pursed his need for creativity through face makeup design and baking with his mom and stepmom. “I was in a rock band, kinda big on social media at the time. So, in my head I just wanted to be a young rock star.” Gage went on to take culinary courses the last few years of high school, which proved to be fortunate when he had the vision of creating Breaüxdoo.
After graduation, adulthood hit hard and he moved to Seattle where he started working at Biscuit Bitch in early summer of 2017. The experience and atmosphere of both the bakery and teamwork at Biscuit Bitch solidified his drive to create his own bakery.
Taking inspiration from Biscuit Bitch in Seattle and Voodoo Doughnuts in Portland, he moved back to Spokane Valley in the fall of 2017 to begin seeing his vision take place.
Gage floated around working in stores in Spokane and Spokane Valley. Prior to 2020 he was gearing up to open a bakery, but the pandemic hit. Gage was working at a bar that his mom owned when a family member came in and started asking what he had been up to recently; he mentioned that he had hoped to open a bakery soon in May. They mentioned that if he needed
an investment to let them know. He played it off cool, “I’m good. I’m cool. But really I was broke as s***.”
A few weeks later he reached out to the family member and after some discussion, a small loan of $10,000 was in hand ready to find a space for a bakery. Gage used the money to rent a commercial kitchen and do cookie deliveries around town with six cookie options and milk. He quickly outgrew the operation and in November of 2020 he moved into the current location on Sprague Avenue.
He proceeded to start tearing out the previous kitchen, and revamping the space with his own equipment. He started baking cookies and delivering them warm in a large pizza boxes to Spokane Valley residents. The cookies that Gage began with were Chocolate Drop, Sugar Daddy, Hollywood Diet, Devils Advocate, Basic But Necessary, Glazed and Confused, and a Red Rum cookie. His cookie band was solid and he began gaining a cult following.
His warm cookie delivery model lasted through the pandemic years when leaving your home was not advised, and it offered families a way to connect over a delicious treat. In the spring of 2022, backstage access was granted to purchase cookies from the rear of the building near a recently painted rockstar mural of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love. They also stopped doing deliveries and moved to a more retail bakery model.
The ribbon cutting and grand opening of the retail store was held on October 29th where a large crowd of supporters came to witness the event and sample Gage’s desserts. The menu has evolved from just his cookie days; they are currently over 40 different pastry offerings.
Gage and his team have a lineup
of eight different cookies, four different cake pops, five unique and childhood-themed nostalgia bars, multiple flavors of full-size, halfnaked cakes, biscuits and gravy, and biscuit sandwiches. There is also an extensive brew bar with many different drink options.
When talking about his favorite dessert, Gage shared love for another local restaurant. “My favorite dessert has always been Twigs’s Sticky Cookie. It is so flippin’ good!” Gage shares, getting passionate. “I have always had this love for ice cream and cookies. Those two are my ultimate two favorite things in the world, and so that’s why we brought in soft serve: for the cookies. You can’t beat a hot/cold dessert.”
The recipe process for Gage is the artistic outlet that playing
music once filled. Gage is always in recipe development, whether for a new cookie like the Morticia Addams, a personal favorite, or the recently perfected pies for the holidays. “Prior it was my face and androgynous lifestyle where I could get out that creative expression. Now I say that old me is just me in dessert. Now I just put it out on a plate. 100% it’s a creative outlet!”
Gage lovingly shares about his passion and business. “My favorite thing is the recipe development stages. Where you really get to mess around with every ingredient and have your whole team test to see what they think.”
Breaüxdoo is located at 14109 E. Sprague Ave Suite 7A. Find more information and order delicious treats online at breauxdoobakery. com. You can follow them on both Facebook and Instagram. Look for holiday specials online now.
