Inlander 12/07/2023 by The Inlander

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All family members need love this holiday season PAGE 6

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VOL. 31, NO. 9 | COVER PHOTO: YOUNG KWAK

COMMENT NEWS CULTURE FOOD

5 8 14 20

SCREEN 22 COVER 23 MUSIC 50 EVENTS 54

56 I SAW YOU 58 GREEN ZONE BULLETIN BOARD 63

EDITOR’S NOTE

ifts can be many things to many people. A symbol of love and devotion. A last minute anxiety attack. A way to support local businesses. A chore. Whatever it is for you, we’ve got you covered in this year’s GIFT GUIDE. As usual, we’ve dreamed up all the types of people who may be on your list this year. The people who are really, really into movies or food. That person who is always cold. A Taylor Swift superfan. That anachronistic family member who doesn’t seem to know that it’s no longer the 1940s. So don’t worry about shopping this year. We’ve got your gifts planned out, and even where to buy them — the Inland Northwest’s many local businesses. Because shopping anywhere but at local stores will definitely get you on the naughty list. — NICHOLAS DESHAIS, editor

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Meet the People Who Shaped the Inland Northwest SPOKANE • EASTERN WASHINGTON • NORTH IDAHO • INLANDER.COM 1227 WEST SUMMIT PARKWAY, SPOKANE, WA 99201 PHONE: 509-325-0634 | EMAIL: INFO@INLANDER.COM THE INLANDER is a locally owned, independent newspaper founded on Oct. 20, 1993. Please recycle THE INLANDER after you’re done with it. One copy free per person per week; extra copies are $1 each (call x226). For ADVERTISING information, email advertising@inlander.com. To have a SUBSCRIPTION mailed to you, call x210 ($78 per year). To find one of our more than 1,000 NEWSRACKS where you can pick up a paper free every Thursday, call x226 or email frankd@ inlander.com. THE INLANDER is a member of the Association of Alternative Newsmedia and is published at least twice per month. All contents of this newspaper are protected by United States copyright law. © 2023, Inland Publications, Inc.

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WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ANIMATED MOVIE? SHAELIN TRIEBE

I would say Cars. I grew up watching it a lot, and it was just kind of like a keepsake for me and my grandpa. What about the movie makes it your favorite? I like how even though they’re inanimate objects, they are still kind of relatable with a normal life. So it’s really cute.

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CASEY TIMMONS

Howl’s Moving Castle is one of my favorites simply because it has a really good storytelling aspect, a really good redemption arc and a lot of life lessons. I think it’s just like generally a good movie for kids to adults to just watch and reflect on.

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My favorite animated movie would have to be Monsters, Inc. because that’s what I watched a lot growing up with my dad. It just has really good memories for me.

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Bearded dragons: Not quite as advertised, but still a part of the family. TARA ROBERTS PHOTO

’Tis the Season to… Brumate? Pets — and their humans — need a little grace this time of year BY TARA ROBERTS

amona, my son Henry’s bearded dragon, arrived in our home three Christmases ago. My husband and I relented in response to an extensive lobbying campaign arguing that bearded dragons are amazing pets, complete with YouTube evidence of happy little lizards riding around on their owners’ shoulders, scurrying after treats and being generally delightful. Ramona is not generally delightful. Beardie enthusiasts suggest training them with chunks of fruit. Ramona hates fruit. Owners often accustom their beardies to handling by giving them luxurious baths. Ramona hates baths. Beardies are “highly social, friendly, animat-

ed, curious,” according to an animal hospital website touting their excellent qualities. Ramona is… not. Like most pet owners, we’ve imagined a personality for her, and everyone in the family occasionally fills in her side of the conversation. (Most pet owners do do this, right?) Ramona’s “voice” is something like an Eastern Europeaninflected version of Eartha Kitt. Her typical responses are “ugh,” “whatever” and “screw you, human.”

Year End

arlier this year I wrote exuberantly about how my dog helps me believe in unconditional love. What, I’ve been wondering since, could I learn from Ramona? My first few ideas fizzled. (The power of glaring at people? The protein benefits of eating crickets?) Then she began to brumate. Brumation is like hibernation for cold-blooded animals. Despite her warming lamps, Ramona senses winter is coming. She loses interest in food (even crickets) and retreats to a corner of her tank, becoming what Henry calls a “sleepy, angry puddle of lizard.” On a recent Sunday morning, Henry marched into the living room to report that Ramona had briefly opened her eyes and given him a look that said, quite clearly, “Get the hell out of my sight, human,” before going back to sleep. I glanced up at him from the couch, where I was curled under a blanket, still in my pajamas, scrolling through terrible news stories on my phone while basking in the full-spectrum lamp that’s supposed to take the edge off my despair on the long, cold North Idaho days when the sun sets at 4 pm. Oh, I realized, I know how she feels. This time of year is packed with encouragement to be very awake and very happy. Get out the glitter and ribbons! Turn on all the lights and be joyful, already! And yet we all feel more like being pissed-off puddles of lizard sometimes.

Beardies are “highly social, friendly, animated, curious.” Ramona is… not. The morning that Ramona chased Henry out of his room with that look was the first Sunday in Advent. I grew up associating the season with candles and countdowns, but as an adult I’ve learned to embrace its two-sided nature: Yes, we feel anticipation and joy as we approach Christmas. We can also feel fear, anger and grief as we acknowledge the ways in which the world waits in darkness. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t spent some time in that darkness these past few years. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sparked by personal loss or a glance at the state of the world as a whole. We know more heartbreak will come, as it always has, and each of us will contribute to it, no matter how hard we try not to. Ugh. Screw you, humans. But we can’t elbow out the darkness of the world by faking happiness or manufacturing joy. If you attempt to wake up a brumating lizard by turning up the lights and tapping on the tank, you’re more likely to hurt it than help it.

n the days I feel like Ramona, I remind myself how much my family adores our misanthropic little lizard. We gently, quietly care for her as she gets the rest she needs, knowing she’ll wake up in a few months and keep delighting us with her un-delightful ways. We all deserve that kind of care, whether we’re bubbling over with joy, angry and exhausted, or somewhere in between. No one has to be loveable all the time to be loved. We can embrace each other in our Ramona moments, watching out for each other through the darkness, sharing, regardless of faith or creed, the promise of hope: The days will lengthen, the sun will return. Sometimes we just have to wait. n Tara Roberts is a writer and educator who lives in Moscow with her husband and sons. Her novel Wild and Distant Seas is forthcoming from Norton in 2024. Follow her on Twitter @ tarabethidaho.

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Y T CI H S I W T S I L ICS

POLIT

It’s unlikely the city will get everything it asks for. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Spokane city leaders ask the state Legislature to strengthen hate crime laws, raise the property tax cap, and pay for parks, a fire station and a child care center BY NATE SANFORD

n Monday, Spokane City Council members passed Spokane’s annual list of priorities for the upcoming 2024 state legislative session. The list reflects some of the greatest challenges facing the city, including homelessness, wildfires, public safety, anti-LGBTQ+ hate and child care shortages. It also asks the state to help fund parks and recreational space. The process of choosing the priorities is driven by the City Council’s three-person legislative committee and staff from the City Council and mayoral administration, says Erik Poulsen, the City Council’s manager of intergovernmental affairs. The priority list is a bit of a balancing act. The city has a lot of needs, but the state only has so much money, and this year’s legislative session is a “short” 60-day session, which means money and time will be limited. “I think we’re strategic,” says Council member Zack Zappone, who sits on the City Council’s legislative team. “We don’t want to ask for too much and know that it’s not going to happen.” Council member Michael Cathcart voted against approving the list, as he’s consistently done in the past. He says he’s concerned about transparency because the three council members assigned to the legislative team

8 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

also create secondary priority lists that don’t come to the full City Council for a vote. Regardless, Cathcart says he supports most of the items approved Monday. State Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig, a Democrat whose district covers much of Spokane, says it’s unlikely that every item on the city’s list will happen, but that the overall list has a good mix of realistic and ambitious requests.

STRONGER HATE CRIME LAWS

In October, Spokane’s rainbow crosswalks were repeatedly targeted with paint and graffiti. But despite what appears to be a clear anti-LGBTQ+ motivation, the vandalism wasn’t classified as a hate crime. Billig says that’s because Washington’s current hate crime law only applies to private property — not public property. “If somebody were to spray paint a swastika on City Hall, that would, under current law, not be able to be charged as a hate crime,” Billig says. Billig says Zappone brought the issue to him after the string of incidents this fall, and that he now plans to sponsor a bill to close the loophole during the upcoming session. He adds that he’s consulted with nonpartisan

experts who told him expanding the state’s hate crime law to include hate-motivated vandalism to public property won’t run afoul of the First Amendment. The priority list passed on Monday also asks the state Legislature to create a hate-crime hotline in the State Attorney General’s Office that would “connect victims with crisis intervention, information, and referrals to community service providers.” A Senate bill to create such a hotline failed to advance last year, but Billig is optimistic about its chances this year. Of all the requests on Spokane’s 2024 list, Billig says the hate crime laws are probably the most likely to succeed because they don’t involve funding requests or taxes.

TAXES FOR HOUSING, HOMELESSNESS

In 2001, Washington voters passed an initiative that prevents cities from raising property taxes by more than 1% per year. Zappone says the limit has “handicapped” Spokane, and he notes that the Association of Washington Cities is also pushing the state to raise the “arbitrary” limit from 1% to 3% this year. “When inflation gets really bad we can’t keep up,” says Council member Jonathan Bingle, who also sits on ...continued on page 10

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NEWS | POLITICS “CITY WISH LIST,” CONTINUED... the Council’s legislative committee. “Whether or not I would vote for it would be another discussion, but I don’t think it’s out of bounds.” A Senate bill to raise the cap last year was met with opposition from a number of Republicans concerned about increasing the burden on taxpayers, and it failed to make it out of committee. Billig says he isn’t sure if the bill will pass this year. “I think there’s a chance, but all tax bills get a sort of extra level of scrutiny, so I don’t think we can say for sure,” Billig says. “But it’s a reasonable step toward some additional local control.” Spokane is also asking the state to expand its real estate excise tax with a local option to “help fund affordable housing, behavioral health services for people experiencing homelessness, and provide seed money for a regional homeless authority.” A House bill to expand the state’s tax on property sales and create a new real estate tax of 4% on property valued over $5 million failed to advance during last year’s session, and it will likely be reconsidered this year. Billig says the revised bill has a lot of moving pieces, and that he needs more information.

FUND A NORTHEAST CHILD CARE CENTER

The city is asking the state for $2.5 million to build a child care center in northeast Spokane. The center would specifically cater to people who work weekends, swing shifts and other nontraditional hours that make traditional child care difficult. Bingle is super excited about the proposal. He says the project has “some real legs” and support from a

variety of stakeholders. The child care center is being spearheaded by the Northeast Community Center and the Northeast Public Development Authority. “The trouble is that, because it’s a short session, I don’t know that we can get the money that we’re asking for,” Bingle says. “Our state representatives told us to put in the ask, and if nothing else, we can move it forward to the line for next year or something.” On Monday, Zappone added a last-minute item asking the state for $750,000 to improve Coeur d’Alene Park.

MONEY FOR PARKS AND TRAILS

on the city’s priority list will likely be an uphill battle.

LATAH VALLEY FIRE STATION

The city is asking for $1 million to improve safety and install new play equipment, restrooms, and sports facilities at northeast Spokane’s Minnehaha Park. The city expects that an additional $8.5 million for upgrades to the park will come from the city’s coming parks levy (if voters approve), with an additional $1 million to $1.5 million from a grant from the state’s Recreation and Conservation office. Bingle, who represents northeast Spokane’s District 1, says he’s especially excited about the upgrades and efforts to make Minnehaha into a major regional recreation area. The city is also asking the state for $1 million to help connect Spokane’s Fish Lake Trail with the Columbia Plateau Trail, a 130-mile trail that runs through Eastern Washington to Pasco. The city has paved about 9 miles of the trail, but a 1-mile gap remains that will require a bridge to cross two active rail lines. Billig says the short session means the state’s capital budget is particularly constrained this year, and that the parks, child care center and other infrastructure projects

Breathin’ easy

Last summer’s wildfires reignited longstanding concerns about a lack of permanent firefighting infrastructure in Spokane’s Latah Valley neighborhood, which sits on the western outskirts of the city next to a wooded area that is difficult for emergency vehicles to reach. The city is in the process of designing a permanent fire station for the neighborhood. In the priority list passed Monday, the city said “an additional $8 million is needed” to speed up construction. Bingle says it makes sense for the state to chip in because firefighters at the new station will also be responding to calls outside city limits. “It isn’t just good for the city, it’s also good for the region,” Bingle says. Bingle says the city isn’t asking the state to cover the entire $8 million. He says that he’s asked the city’s finance department to do a study to see what percentage of the fire station will be serving the city versus the region as a whole and that the city will use that number to determine how much of the cost they’d like the state to cover. Zappone says legislators have told him the fire station might be especially difficult, because fire stations are typically considered basic city operations, which the state doesn’t usually fund. Billig says the request might be a reach, but that he’s reserving judgment until he gets more information. “Maybe they know something I don’t,” Billig says. “Maybe there’s some grant program for helping cities to build fire stations I’m not aware of.” n

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NEWS | BRIEFS

The Black Lens last published in January 2022.

A Newspaper Returns

Spokane’s lone Black paper is revived. Plus, the Idaho panhandle gets easier access to a lifesaving drug; and a potential Spokane parks levy gets pushed to August. BY INLANDER STAFF

all it a win for local journalism. The Black Lens, Spokane’s sole Black newspaper that collapsed after the death of founder and editor Sandy Williams, will return next year. The paper, which launched in 2015, will be led by Natasha Hill, at least initially, according to the Spokesman-Review. Hill, who ran an unsuccessful campaign against U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers in 2022, says she will hire a full-time reporter as well as a full-time editor to run the paper. The first edition of the relaunched paper will come out on Feb. 1 and be free around town. It will also be an insert in the Spokesman, which had forged a partnership with Williams before her untimely death in a September 2022 Puget Sound plane crash. Williams had paused publication of the paper just months before her death, turning her focus to opening the Carl Maxey Center, a Black-led and Black-centered nonprofit organization in the East Central Neighborhood. (NICHOLAS DESHAIS)

NARCAN ON DEMAND

The fentanyl crisis has been increasingly impacting communities around the country, with overdose deaths skyrocketing in recent years, including in the Inland Northwest. To keep more people safe, the Panhandle Health District has installed two new vending machines where instead of Life Savers you’ll find free doses of Narcan, a lifesaving opioid reversal drug. While the drug, commonly called naloxone, is now available over the counter at pharmacies, it can cost close to $50 per dose. Whether you or a loved one use opioids or not, it’s safer for the community if everyone carries naloxone, which is why the district wanted to remove the barrier of prohibitive costs. The free machines are open to anyone, and can be found at St. Vincent de Paul’s Help Center (201 E. Harrison Ave., Coeur d’Alene) and the Kellogg Fire Department (911 Bunker Ave., Kellogg). (SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL)

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LEVY BONANZA

Parks, libraries and schools. Everybody loves them. But will love triumph over taxes? The answer will become clear in February and August next year, when Spokane voters will be asked if they’re OK raising taxes to support local libraries, parks and schools. The library levy will come to voters in February. If approved, it will raise $2.5 million annually for three years. That same month, Spokane Public Schools will ask voters to approve a $200 million bond and a levy that will raise $300 million over three years. The parks levy — which will raise $225 million over 20 years if passed — was originally planned for February as well, but on Monday, Spokane City Council members voted to move it to the August ballot because they said parks staff wanted more time to do education and outreach. On Monday, Council member Michael Cathcart said he was worried that moving the parks levy to August might overwhelm voters — especially since the city is discussing yet another levy that would raise taxes to cover basic city services in November 2024. (NATE SANFORD)

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NEWS | DEVELOPMENT

What affects my energy bill in winter? The new center will be near the confluence of Latah Creek and the Spokane River.

A Permanent Home Spokane’s American Indian Community Center hopes to build a new facility in High Bridge Park BY SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL During the winter, your energy bill can differ from one month to the next for a lot of reasons. A sudden cold snap may occur which requires your heating system to run more frequently. Fewer daylight hours mean your lights are on for longer periods. Having kids at home for school vacations and guests stay over the holidays can affect the amount of energy you use each month, as well. Learn what else impacts your winter bill and better manage your costs using our helpful online tools. Go to myavista.com/winterbill

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fter moving around Spokane a dozen times in its 56 years, the American Indian Community Center hopes to stop renting and finally build a permanent home in an underutilized city park. The center acts as a gathering place and service provider for members of more than 300 Native American tribes from around the country who are residents of Spokane. From providing cultural events and job fairs to helping get rental assistance and food to those who need it, the center’s reach has grown significantly, and nearly all their programs are open to anyone in the Spokane community. After first finding a home at Gonzaga, the community center bounced between buildings in the east end of downtown and spent a few years on North Foothills Drive before moving to its current location on Indiana Avenue near Monroe Street, in a building owned by the Spokane Tribe of Indians. Since moving into the current spot in early 2020, the center’s staff has grown from 13 people to 22, partly due to expanded programs they started offering during the pandemic, explains Linda Lauch, the center’s executive director, who’s worked there for 38 years. “It’s unfortunate that the building isn’t larger, because we’ve outgrown it,” Lauch says. Those growing pains have been good news for the surrounding community though. One of the programs that expanded the most in recent years was the center’s food bank, which operates three to four days a week and serves people regardless of where they live.

“If somebody comes in and says they’re hungry and want food, I don’t care where they’re from, they’re getting food,” Lauch says. The center also offers family services, alcohol and drug treatment, clothing, and more, but the current space is not easily accessible for those with disabilities. With limited office and meeting space, the staff started looking to build a bigger home last year, Lauch says. After working with the city, the center got the go-ahead early this year to start planning for a 25,000-square-foot building in High Bridge Park. Now, they’re moving on to the hard part: raising money.

auch says her team worked with Spokane City Council member Karen Stratton — a descendant of the Spokane Tribe — and the city’s Parks and Recreation Department to find a location for a more permanent home. In early January, the city’s Park Board unanimously gave them the greenlight to work toward developing two acres at Riverside Avenue and South A Street. The location is significant because it’s near the confluence of Latah Creek and the Spokane River, where area tribes historically gathered for trade and community. “Being near the river was ideal for us, plus it was a gathering place for Indian people from time immemorial,” Lauch says. “I wanted to make sure that wherever we were, the most important thing was it would be accessible.” With a bus stop out front and the potential to build accessible entrances for each level of the building, the hope is to provide amenities for the center’s clients as well as enhance the existing park. The project’s estimated cost is about $12 million, and after getting the Park Board’s initial approval, the center secured $1 million in state funding for the capital project earlier this year. Lauch says the center also has a $300,000 commitment from Empire Health Foundation and has received smaller donations from other community partners. The city also allocated about $57,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding to help the center with its capital campaign. In addition to asking for about $3 million in federal funding, Lauch plans to seek more state money, secure tax credits, ask for financial help from tribes and gather community donations for the facility. At a recent kickoff event, the center unveiled renderings for the new space and started spreading the word. “We set up a special account for the general public to donate to. It can be found at aiccinc.org,” Lauch says. “We think it will be a two- or three-year push. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, unless anyone knows somebody that can write us a check.” If the campaign is very successful, the goal is to include a gymnasium in the new facility, but in general the plans include a large multipurpose room where the community will be able to host funerals, small powwows and other events, Lauch says. The center could enhance the use of High Bridge Park and might enable the city to leverage the local funding to secure more state recreation money for improvements at the dog park and to connect Fish Lake Trail with the Centennial Trail, says Garrett Jones, the city’s interim administrator who’s still overseeing the parks department. “At the parks department we’re always looking for partnerships and win-wins of positive activation, and being able to create a sense of community,” Jones says. The partnership could look similar to how the Liberty Park Library has helped the city improve Liberty Park, Jones says. Whether the final agreement will include a long-term lease or some type of easement that maintains city ownership remains to be seen, Jones says. There will be more opportunities for public input as the city and the center continue to work together. “All we want to do is help people the very best way we can. If that means in a leased building, we’ll do it there,” Lauch says. “But boy, we’d love to have something we could use as a vehicle to share with our community.” n samanthaw@inlander.com

DECEMBER AT THE FOX Tower of Power: Holidays & Hits Tour Fri.Dec 8 7:30 PM

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From left, Trackside’s Mark Moore, Gina Freuen and Chris Kelsey. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

VISUAL ARTS

Brimming With Love

Trackside Studio celebrates 10 years of its annual Cup of Joy exhibit showcasing handmade ceramic mugs BY MADISON PEARSON

here’s hardly a more special connection than one between a person and their favorite mug. We spend a lot of time with the vessels out of which we drink. Whether holding coffee, tea or something else, mugs are personal. Gina Freuen, an exhibiting partner at Trackside Studio, knew that well when she decided to start Cup of Joy. “I saw a similar thing happening in Bellevue at their arts and crafts festival about 11 years ago,” Freuen says. “A bunch of artists made vessels for display and sale, I thought it was amazing. I figured well, why couldn’t we have something like this in Spokane?” Freuen brought the idea to Mark Moore and Chris Kelsey, owners of Trackside Studio in west downtown Spokane, and they gave her the go-ahead. Now in its 10th year, the Cup of Joy invitational brings 45 ceramic artists from around North American together to showcase and sell their unique, handmade creations. “Once you start drinking out of something handmade, it just feels different,” Freuen says. “Within the very material of the cup itself is the touch of a human being instead of the touch of a machine.” Each year about 45 to 50 artists each contribute at least four mugs to the show. This year, the show consists of 175 handmade mugs that people can buy and use in their daily lives. Along with national artists, Cup of Joy features a

14 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

healthy dose of local talent. Potters based in the Inland Northwest include Maya Rumsey (Melissa Maya Pottery) from Coeur d’Alene and Dennis Randall Smith from Medical Lake, plus many others. Also among the pool of this year’s artists is 14-yearold Quebec ceramicist Tuilelaith-Fionnuala Onòra (simply Tuile to pottery enthusiasts). Her involvement makes the 2023 edition of Cup of Joy an international affair. “Tuile’s work is just incredible,” Freuen says. “She makes these mugs that look like clowns. All in rainbow colors. These go for thousands of dollars because her craftsmanship is so amazing.” The mugs Tuile created for the show are just as Freuen describes: rainbow clowns with viciously sharp teeth, shiny gold handles, and a mish-mash of colors, patterns, and textures on the outside of the vessel. The cups are whimsical, fun and evoke mass amounts of joy, living up to the show’s name. Tuile’s outrageous creations are a definite draw, but other mugs seek to highlight the nature of the Pacific Northwest with ties to fly-fishing, birds and plants. Some have simple designs, beckoning to the minimalists of the world, and others are a feast for the eyes with mismatched patterns — perfect for a lover of maximalism. Most of Cup of Joy’s mugs are priced between $35 and $60 each. They’re also for sale online via Trackside’s website. “To me a cup is one of the most intimate art forms there is,” says Trackside co-owner Kelsey, also a ceramicist.

Tuilelaith-Fionnuala Onòra’s “Brin,” left, and “Loraine.” “Most people don’t realize it, but it’s something that you touch with your lips, you hold it in your hands and caress it. With ceramics, we feel one of our missions is to educate Spokane about the richness of ceramic art and ceramic tradition. There’s so much out there, and this cup show is a great example of all the different directions that people go in with the craft. It’s just really inspiring.”

up of Joy runs through December and into mid-January, but Freuen’s preparation for it takes place year-round. She’s constantly looking for new potters to join the show each year, scouring social media and regional art shows for unique vessels. In June, she sends out invitations to her preliminary list and waits for responses. This year, Cup of Joy added eight new-to-theshow artists including Ginger Oakes, Harry Mestyanek, Ken Scott and Chris Carson, all Spokane ceramicists. Moore, Kelsey and Freuen all created and fired mugs for the show as well. Autumn Bunton (Goblin Pottery) has been invited to Cup of Joy for several years and keeps coming back because of the show’s uniqueness. “There aren’t many shows in Spokane that highlight the local ceramic talent we have,” Bunton says. “Cup of Joy showcases such high quality work.”

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CULTURE | BOOKS

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BY COLTON RASANEN

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hat does a pink blob-shaped queen with a ravenous sweet tooth, a butler with a mustache who may or may not be a bipedal panda, and a talking star have in common? Well, they’re all main characters in HF Brownfield and Kayla Coombs’ new children’s graphic novel Quinnelope and the Cookie King Catastrophe, of course. The book follows Quinnelope (said blob-shaped queen, their name pronounced similar to Penelope) and her two companions, Bub and Star, as they work to uncover why every single cookie in the town was replaced with cake (apparently an unprecedented tragedy for the queen). This takes the trio on a cavity-causing adventure to rescue the Cookie King — the only person in the land able to make cookies taste good — from the infamous Cake Criminal. This is Brownfield and Coombs’ HF Brownfield first graphic novel, but thanks to their seamless partnership from more than 8,000 miles apart — Coombs is based in Melbourne and Brownfield is in Spokane — and a promising publishing deal, two more in the series are already on the way. The creative pair’s second book, Quinnelope and the Mystery of the Missing Moon, is set to hit shelves in June 2024. “We really do have such different strengths, and I’m grateful for that,” Brownfield says. “There’s no way [this book] would’ve

happened in a million years without Kayla.” Along their journey, Quinnelope and friends must bravely make their way through a slew of obstacles. This includes traversing past an active (cookie dough) volcano, defeating a few rotten eggs by cracking them up with jokes, and getting past the Frosting Fiend, who tries to distract the adventurers with his “original” artworks that seem suspiciously familiar to some classic paintings. And of course, there’s a sweet ending where Quinnelope rescues the Cookie King, befriends the Cake Criminal and creates a new mouthwatering dessert — the “coocakes.” Each page of this whimsical story is packed with quirky energy and a light-hearted humor that’s appropriate for all audiences. And if you ask Coombs, that’s because of Brownfield’s eccentric mind. “Brownfield is a gold mine of ideas, they have like 10 really good ideas a day,” Coombs says. “Honestly, the hard part for us is figuring out which one to work on first because so many of them are so good.” “I mean, I certainly feel like a second grader walking around the world and imagining weird, strange things every day,” Brownfield chuckles.

o some, this may be just a silly kids story to file along with similar titles such as Captain Underpants or Diary of a Wimpy Kid, but to others, like Brownfield’s daughter, this is something special — something entirely new. Their daughter is one of the millions of Americans who live with dyslexia, a learning disorder that makes reading more complicated. “School has been so difficult for [my daughter], and it really struck me just how much we had to advocate for her to even make learning accessible,” Brownfield says. Because of this, they say their daughter prefers to read books with more visual elements. However, many of the age-appropriate graphic novels on the shelves right now are tailored to young Quinnelope and the Cookie King boys, Brownfield says. Catastrophe is available locally for “Those books are $15 at Auntie’s Bookstore (402 W. fun and my sons like Main Ave.) and Wishing Tree Books them, but she’s not really (1410 E. 11th Ave.). into them,” Brownfield explains. “So one night I came up with this little kernel of an idea and sent it to Kayla as a joke.” Thus the cookie-eating pink blob queen Quinnelope was born. In addition to creating a visually based story that might appeal to a wider audience, the book was written in a dyslexiafriendly font to make it more accessible. These fonts often take steps to make reading it easier, for example, capital I’s need to have the little slashes on top and bottom so folks don’t mistake it for a lowercase L. But when the pair began looking into their options, they couldn’t find a font they liked. “When we pulled up some of these fonts, they were almost inaccessible to people without dyslexia,” Brownfield says. “They were so strangely shaped — and that’s wonderful for folks with dyslexia — but we needed something that was going to be accessible for everybody.” So, Coombs created a brand new font using her own handwriting, which she says took about three iterations before it was ready to be used. The randomness and organic nature of the font makes it more accessible to folks with dyslexia, while still being readable by all audiences, she says. According to Coombs, another creative project is already using the font she created. “I mean, almost every time I talk to folks about it I just tear up,” Brownfield says. “I don’t have dyslexia, but I can only imagine what it’s like, so it just feels incredible that we can make it even a little bit [easier] for them.” n

READ THE BOOK!

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 17

CULTURE | DIGEST

THE BUZZ BIN

Match Made in Heaven A Spokane couple reflects on their 30year marriage and how they first met BY RENÉE SANDE

“T

im Warner,” she says in the direction of his home office, her playful smile belying her deadpan tone. I’ve invaded the home of my friend, Laurel Warner, and her husband, Tim, to find out how they’ve made it to 30 years married, including navigating a pretty serious health issue. Knowing Laurel, I know humor plays a big part. After some catch-up chitchat, and still no Tim, Laurel says it again: “Tim Warner.” This time, he appears with an appeasing grin. We sit at the table, and while I know their story is going to be sweeter than I realized, as it unfolds she tells me that his full name, Tim Warner, is her “nickname” for him. I can’t help but feel like this is because these are two of her most beloved words, and that every time she says them, it’s like she’s reminding herself just how lucky she is that Tim Warner chose her.

t’s the first day of kindergarten. Laurel sees him across the hallway. Tim’s really not happy to be there. She feels quite the opposite, and so the love affair begins. First grade rolls around and the two become inseparable, hanging out at recess, throwing tennis balls against the wall. “We were just friends, but I didn’t hang out with any other girls,” Tim says. “We were just always that way.” By middle school he wants to ask her out, but it’s not until high school that he finally gets the nerve to tell her how he feels. “He would write me long letters about why we needed to be together and what he saw in me, and he would leave them on my car,” Laurel says. Growing up in a dysfunctional family, it was hard for Laurel to accept that he saw so much in her. “I thought he was out of my league because I was so crazy in high school and he was so calm,” she says. “From the get-go, he was different from the rest. He didn’t try to buy me flowers or outdo anyone… It was just about being together.” By their second date she knew Tim was the one. But in the summer before their junior year, Laurel’s mom died unexpectedly, throwing her whole life into a tailspin. She rebelled, transferring from schools, partying nonstop and spending almost every Saturday in detention. “She was definitely a little too much for me then,” Tim says. “We didn’t really talk.” Then, after a wild year, Laurel returned to West

18 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

Laurel and Tim Warner now (top) and then. COURTESY PHOTOS Valley and worked hard to graduate with her class. “We talked about getting back together, but I was still dating someone else,” she says. “I remember Tim asking me, ‘What are you doing?!’ And I said, ‘I really don’t know.’ But he waited. He was so patient. This is why I wholeheartedly believe he was hand-picked by God and my mom — because I needed that stability.”

fter graduating and finally together, Tim and Laurel headed to Eastern Washington University, feeling like things were finally starting to go their way. But again, life had other plans. At the age of 20, Tim was diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia, his heart beating too fast to pump enough oxygenated blood through his body. “I had [tachycardia] four times in 10 days,” he says. “It usually kills you the first time. Even though they told me I would need a heart transplant someday, it seemed so far away and I was so active, it didn’t slow me down.” Even with this looming reality, the two fell into somewhat of a normal life, getting married three years later. Fast-forward through years of long workdays and staying active, and at 33 years old Tim was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. “We were moving into our newly built house, talking about having kids… and I’m like, ‘Is this really happening now?!’” Laurel recalls. They decided to have kids first and get Tim on a heart transplant waitlist. “When you get a heart transplant, if it doesn’t take, you’re done,” Tim says. “We had two young boys by this time. I wanted to monitor the technology, which just kept getting better.” Ten years later, it was Tim’s turn for a transplant. This year, the couple celebrated the 10th anniversary of that very surreal time in their life. “After he got his new heart, I fell in love with him all over again,” Laurel says. “Our life just evolved so drastically. Four months post-transplant, we were hiking, biking — things we hadn’t been able to do as a family, ever.” “If anything, something like this draws you closer,” Tim says. “Before, I couldn’t imagine going through life without her, but now it’s a whole new level. It’s indescribable.” n Got a love story worth sharing? Tell us more at editor@inlander.com!

GAINING VELOCITY In a reverse Ted Lasso, Spokane Velocity FC has hired Liverpoolnative LEIGH VEIDMAN as head coach of the new USL League One professional men’s soccer team. He comes to Spokane after assistant coaching for the Charleston Battery of USL Championship league. During his first and only season with the Battery last year, the South Carolina team made it to the Championship final. Veidman previously helped take the OKC Energy FC from one win all season to playoff contention in the next. He grew up playing for the Liverpool FC youth academy before coming to the U.S. for college, earning All-American honors as a student athlete and playing professionally for four years with the Toronto Lynx in USL League Two. Veidman definitely makes more sense as a soccer (football?) coach than Lasso, and here’s to hoping his career across the pond is just as successful. (ELIZA BILLINGHAM) HOLIDAY CHEER The Inland Northwest is home to a caring, generous community, and those sentiments are only amplified during the peak of giving season. One of those many large-scale efforts is NO-LI’s 25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS, an annual December campaign to raise money for 25 regional nonprofits. The Spokane brewery has been running the holidaythemed initiative for eight years now, choosing a variety of nonprofits to each receive $1,000 on a designated day from Dec. 1 through 24. On Christmas Day, one final organization gets $10,000. Thanks to matching donations, this year’s event is set to distribute a total of $53,000 (some organizations get $2,000) to groups that uplift the arts, education, nutrition, animal welfare, affordable housing and more. The big recipient of $10,000 is Giving Back Spokane. See the full list of nonprofits and learn more at nolibrewhouse. com/25days. (CHEY SCOTT) TEA’S COMPANY Cozy up with a steaming cup and get to know your (new) neighbors this holiday season. This Saturday, Dec. 9, local nonprofit Thrive International, which helps recently arrived refugees find temporary housing among other services, is partnering with Manzanita House, which also supports the immigrant community, to host a WINTER TEA TASTING & BAZAAR. Held from 10 am to 2 pm at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center (500 S. Stone St.), the event showcases local immigrant-owned small businesses with a vendor fair offering handmade gifts, food and more. Visitors can enjoy free multicultural teas and baked goods from Feast World Kitchen and Boots Bakery, along with free henna art and crafts. Organizers hope the fair lets local refugees connect with one another, while simultaneously showcasing their rich cultural diversity and contributions to the region. (CHEY SCOTT)

Volstead Act’s Noah Carter pours a festive drink. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

POP-UP

Holiday Cheers National Christmas cocktail pop-up “Miracle” chooses Volstead Act as its first Spokane location BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

t’s a Christmas miracle, Or technically, just Miracle. Miracle is a Christmas cocktail pop-up that started in New York City and has spread to locations all over the world. You can’t apply to Miracle — Miracle comes to you. Six months ago, in the dead heat of summer, Miracle approached Roman Harner, general manager at Volstead Act in downtown Spokane, to ask about his Christmas plans. Did he want to be the first bar in Spokane to host Miracle? Greg Boehm, the mastermind behind Miracle, started the over-the-top Christmas pop up at his spot in East Village in 2014. The vibes: Kitschy decor, relentless enthusiasm and the “nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to,” the website proudly proclaims. New Yorkers (or at least NYC tourists) went berserk. Within a decade, Miracle has popped up around the world from Montreal to Paris to Hong Kong. Harner called bartender friends in Seattle and San Diego who had some experience with the holiday extravaganza. By early September, Harner agreed to bring Miracle to

20 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

Spokane from Nov. 20 to Dec. 31. He and his bartenders then spent all of autumn “doom scrolling on Instagram,” Harner says, trying to figure out how to make it look like Christmas “blew up in there.” Boy, did they succeed. Walls and tables smothered with mismatched wrapping paper. Stockings on the back of every chair. A flickering fireplace bedazzled with gold garlands and evergreen wreaths. A ceiling covered in billowing cotton, twinkling lights and sparkling snowflakes, like the inside of a snowglobe. Plus, nonstop Christmas music and Christmas movies in case you don’t have the Hallmark Channel at home. “It was actually surprisingly difficult to find enough Christmas movies,” Harner says. “We’re open for 492 hours worth of service during Miracle. I didn’t expect to find 492 hours for the Christmas movies, but I was definitely expecting like, maybe 200 hours. I topped out at like, 78, which is about a week’s worth of service. Every Harry Potter movie is on that list at that point, because they have a Christmas vibe.” Harner also curated a 22-hour Christmas music

playlist, “trying to avoid the pitfalls of some of the more annoying Christmas music” but respecting the classics. “We also have a playlist that we put on after midnight,” Harner says. “Not necessarily anti-Christmas music but irreverent Christmas music. Run DMC’s entire Christmas album is on the late night one.” His team learned a new menu of 16 cocktails, most priced at $14 or $16, each originally crafted by the Miracle team. There’s the Christmapolitan with vodka, vermouth and spiced cranberry; the Carol Barrel with Irish whiskey, banana liqueur, Guinness punch and chocolate bitters; the Krampus with tequila, sherry and hellfire bitters; plus hot buttered rum and mulled wine, both served warm. But even though the menu is provided, each bar is able to give it a personal spin. “It’s an unbranded event, so we have a lot of liberty to pick what spirits we want to put in there,” Harner says. “Then we have a certain degree of liberty to tweak the proportions of the cocktail, like whether it’s sweet or not, to fit our clientele.”

FOOD | TO-GO BOX

MORE HOLIDAY SIPS! If cocktails aren’t your thing, check out these other decked-out downtown events featuring beer and cider.

NO-LI FROST FEST

Drinks featured for the holiday pop-up include mulled wine and more.

ach cocktail is served in its own special glassware or mug: the Christmapolitan in a chic branded cocktail glass, mulled wine in a smiling Santa mug, the Yippee Ki Yay Mother F***r in a Santa pants cup, The Krampus in a hefty red ceramic Krampus head. When Volstead Act bought the mugs from Miracle, 10% of that purchase went toward Seva, an organization that provides optic care and helps restore sight around the globe. Anyone visiting Miracle at Volstead Act can buy a mug to take home for themselves and participate in the spirit of giving (most mugs are $25, or you can get the mug and cocktail together for $30). Harner sold so many in just the first week of the Miracle pop-up that he’s already planning another order. But perhaps the most wonderful thing about Miracle in Spokane is an unashamed, unabashed, unbridled enthusiasm. The uncontained excitement of a child at Christmas. “I think one of the things that Spokane suffers from is a lot of people don’t go into a concept wholeheartedly,” Harner says. “Over the years, I’ve found that Spokane really responds to a lot of effort.” In an industry that operates on razor-thin margins and a culture that glorifies apathy, spending $2,000 on Christmas decorations might seem foolish and immature. But the silliness and childish joy has brought people into Volstead Act who haven’t been to a bar for years, Harner says, and even the Grinchiest regulars haven’t stopped showing up. Stockings above the fireplace bear the names of people who make Volstead Act a chosen family. Home Alone is on the TV, presents are wrapped, and the world smells like cinnamon. It’s OK to be a kid again. Maybe that’s the kind of miracle we all need. n Miracle at Volstead Act • Through Dec. 31; open daily from 3 pm-2 am • Volstead Act • 12 N. Post St. • miraclepopup.com/locations • 509-808-2516

Sat, Dec. 16 from 12-3 pm • No-Li Bier Hall • 1003 E. Trent Ave. Make friends with Jack Frost by toasting small batch beers at No-Li’s 6th Annual Frost Fest. At the No-Li Bier Hall and Riverside Patio, try four new seasonal brews. A limited edition 20-ounce mug for $12 grants access to exclusive beer offerings, with fills for $8. The first 500 people to buy a mug and a fill get a complimentary, cozy No-Li beanie. Santa himself is scheduled to show up, so drink responsibly to stay on the nice list.

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

Through Dec. 9, Fri from 3-6 pm; Sat from 2-6 pm • Brick West Brewing Co. • 1318 W. First Ave. Sometimes, you need to let the Christmas trees come to you, specifically with beer, snacks and hot drinks nearby. On the Brick West plaza, find pre-cut Douglas firs from North Ridge Farms, plus hot cocoa and snacks from Wandering Tin Can. Of course, you can also keep warm with one of your favorite Brick West brews. If you preorder a tree, you’ll get 10% off the tree plus a $5 Brick West gift card.

LUMBERBEARD WINTER MARKET

Sun, Dec. 17 from 12-3 pm • Lumberbeard Brewing • 25 E. Third Ave. Once, my brother got my mom a Christmas gift she disliked so much that she cried. Gifting can be stressful. Wouldn’t it be nice if someone curated a bunch of great vendors, offered you a drink to set the celebratory mood, and let you peruse the gorgeous items on your own? Oh wait, that’s exactly what’s happening at Lumberbeard! Head over to the brewery’s tasting room for a lowstress “sip and shop” moment. Previous markets have hosted soap, candle and macrame artists, plus painters and culinary innovators. — ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Houston TX Hot Chicken opened here last month. COURTESY PHOTO

3 Chainz Three popular national franchises have opened new Spokane-area locations this fall BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

lived in Vietnam for almost two years, a country filled with fresh street food, outdoor markets and unparalleled phớ stands. But one meal I’ll never forget came during a nasty bout of homesickness when I just had to have a Popeye’s chicken sandwich. Few things are as comforting as the familiarity of your favorite franchise. This fall, three new chains opened new locations in the Spokane area, each with the secret ingredients for flavor and nostalgia.

HOUSTON TX HOT CHICKEN 1839 N. Ruby St. • Open daily 10:30 am-10 pm (Fri-Sat until midnight) There were 42 texts in my group chat about Houston TX Hot Chicken when it opened where the Sweeto Burrito on Ruby Street used to be. The verdict: quality meat, legit spice, “thicc” fries, long lines, efficient service. The Las Vegas-based franchise does Southern-style spicy chicken sandwiches and tenders, plus waffles, milkshakes and draft beers. Their highest spice level, the “Houston We Have a Problem” level, requires a waiver. Verdict is out if HHC can keep up the quality and enthusiasm it had during those first few opening days. But sometimes, no matter what, nothing hits the spot like a fried chicken sandwich. The group chat was quick to point out that HHC’s sandwich was way less greasy than Popeye’s. KILLER BURGER 15705 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley • Open daily 10:30 am-9 pm Whatever your ultimate burger experience is, it probably includes bacon. That’s why every burger from Killer Burger comes with bacon, without even needing to ask. The Portland-based franchise already has a location in Hayden, Idaho, but the newest franchise just opened in Spokane Valley to bring dangerously good burgers to Eastern Washington. Think you’re tired of burgers? Think again. Killer Burger offers some risky flavor combos that are either to total knockouts or complete duds. Try the Barnyard with ham and eggs, or the Peanut Butter Pickle Bacon burger to decide for yourself. Vegan and gluten free options are available, plus mini burgers and grilled cheese for your little killers, aka kids. INSOMNIA COOKIES 922 N. Division St. • Open Sun noon-1 am; Mon-Wed 11 am-1am; Thu-Fri 11 am-3 am; Sat noon-3 am Simply a must for any college town. If you can’t sleep, or decide not to, you can now get hot, fresh cookies delivered to your door. Dreamed up in a dorm room at the University of Pennsylvania in 2003, Insomnia Cookies now has over 200 locations worldwide, including its newest bakery right next to Spokane’s University District. Traditional flavors are always available, like chocolate chunk, classic with M&M’s, oatmeal raisin and snickerdoodle, plus options for glutenfree and vegan cookies. You can also snag brownies, ice cream, cookie ice cream sandwiches and cookie cakes if your sweet tooth is unstoppable. Just beware that the more sugar you eat, the less likely you are to be able to fall asleep. n

DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 21

How to use THIS

PULL-OUT SECTION

ALSO OPENING CHRISTMAS RE-RELEASES

Apparently making compelling new movies is too hard, so the major theater chains are screening a ton of Christmas favorites this week. The slate includes Elf, Love Actually, The Polar Express, Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch (2018), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Tokyo Godfathers… and — just to infuriate Christmas movie pedants — Die Hard. Ratings vary

Studio Ghibli delivers another animated gem.

Pull down then out NOT A Sugar Cookie

The Return of the King Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron is a true work of art and one of the year’s best films BY CHASE HUTCHINSON

apanese animation icon Hayao Miyazaki wasn’t going to make another film, but we can all be grateful he did. Untethered from narrative convention, The Boy and the Heron boldly launches us into another magnificently animated Studio Ghibli world where every frame is a vast painting. It is a vision you can get lost in, which is precisely what happens to the movie’s central character. When we first meet the young Mahito Maki (voiced by Soma Santoki / English dub by Luca Padovan), he’s experienced a devastating loss. In an opening scene — one the boy and the subsequent film remain haunted by — his world is consumed by a terrifying fire when a hospital in Tokyo is bombed during World War II. Mahito’s mother is killed, leaving him suddenly lost in life. His mind keeps bringing him back to the deadly fire, which Miyazaki presents in inescapably painful detail. It strikes awe and sadness to see the overwhelmingly vibrant colors of the roaring blaze blur into a more shapeless yet no less frightening form. It is as if we are viewing this moment in time through the tears of a son losing his mother. All of this comes in only the first part of The Boy and the Heron, but like any such death, it informs everything. When Mahito and his father move away from the city to the country, it offers no respite from the immensity of their loss. Instead, the patriarch does plenty of posturing about protecting his son, yet is incapable of helping him heal.

22 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

NOT A Santa Hat As Mahito goes looking for salvation, perplexed by elements of it — it may have initially even harming himself in a moment been an attempt to get them in the door for of stark yet bloody despair, something else a film worth cherishing just as you grapple entirely finds him. Specifically, a gorgeous with it. After all, we will not get many more heron (voiced by Masaki Suda / Robert such works from Miyazaki. Pattinson) grows nearer and nearer to the The filmmaker’s previous film, 2013’s boy. When it begins to speak to him, telling less magical though still existential The Wind him of how he can bring him to his mother, Rises, was believed to be his last before reMahito gets drawn into another realm lurktirement. It felt like a fitting coda to a body ing just beyond our own. Everything in the of work with already resonant and stirring film is then meticulously constructed just as animated films, from Princess Mononoke to it is fittingly slippery, like the vision of his Spirited Away. The Boy and the Heron was mother that becomes casagain reported to be cading water when Mahito The Boy and the Heron Miyazaki’s final film, but tries to reach out to her. that too may be shortRated PG-13 lived. Whatever the case, Directed by Hayao Miyazaki he journey the film Starring Soma Santoki (Luca Padovan), it is no less essential to takes us on is clasunderstanding him as Masaki Suda (Robert Pattinson) sic Miyazaki, with an artist, filmmaker and plenty of joyous creations person. that showcase more imagination in a single In a world of chaos and loss, films like scene than most directors could hope to this bring into focus how it is that we carry capture in a lifetime. But it also feels like on. Friendship, family, connection and love something new. With every discovery Maare what the director holds up once more hito makes, it’s like the longtime director is as the most powerful forces in the world. It uncovering ideas at the core of all his films. is a work overflowing with wonder, imbued The Japanese title of this one, How Do with emotional heft via a soaring score by You Live?, shares a thematic interest with the Miyazkai’s longtime collaborator Joe Hisai1937 novel of the same name by Genzaburo shi. This is all molded together into a story Yoshino, even though their respective stories of life, death and everything in between with are quite different. The Boy and the Heron one of the most shattering endings — one is a more literal title and — considering that is right up there with the director’s best. how some North American audiences who So how do you live? One can only hope saw its international premiere at this year’s through art as audacious, honest and beautiToronto International Film Festival were ful as The Boy and the Heron. n

YES a resource you keep and share with friends.

Now you know how!

PULL-OUT & KEEP! GIFT GUIDE

2023

T F I G

GUIDE 2023

t u o b a re ca u o y e n o ry e v e r fo Gifts (and a couple for those you don’t)

s! e l i h p e n ovies) i C r o f em Gifts they lik

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SUPPLEMENT TO THE INLANDER

Gifts for Sustainable (treat your eco-friendly

Sallies!

friends)

Enjoy a moment of cheer. Watch Spokane Valley’s RCA perform Joy (to the World) at stcu.org/holiday.

24 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

T F I G GUIDE FANS OF THE BEAR GIFTS FOR

Surprise superfans of Hulu’s hit chef dramedy with delicious Italian treats and replay-worthy memories BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

he drama. The close-ups. The beef. Carmy Berzatto and his tough crew at the Original Beef of Chicagoland have made us all want to be chefs (or at least fall in love with a chef). If a trip to Chicago’s River North neighborhood isn’t possible this year, you can still spoil the Jeremy Allen White fan in your life with a perfect The Bear-inspired gift to tide them over until the third season (finally) arrives next year. Although, if your holiday season is going to be wracked with family trauma, you’re already well on your way to reliving an episode or two.

SPICY ITALIAN SEASONING

The Berzatto family packs a punch… sometimes literally. If you’re looking to heat up a family-style dinner, look no further than Spiceology’s Spicy Italian Seasoning. Gift it to whoever is the most stressed in the kitchen — in a pinch, it layers a lot of flavors and maybe a few tears. While it can’t guarantee a car through the front window, it’s sure to be a showstopper. $23 • Spiceology • Online at spiceology.com

MESSERMEISTER 8-INCH CHEF’S KNIFE

Learn from Carmy and don’t mess around with dull knives. Get your aspiring chef a knife that will level up their knife skills and keep them safe. CDA Gourmet carries a big selection of Messermeister knives

that are forged in Germany or Japan and used by professional chefs around the world. Customize the 8-inch chef’s knife handle for a personal touch, and watch the recipient become incredibly possessive of it. $105 • CDA Gourmet • 842 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene

AUTHENTIC CANNOLI

If you need a gift that’s both a delicious treat and a dose of healing from family trauma, take a note from the Berzattos and grab a box of cannoli. Head to Tre Palline Gelato Napolitano for its fresh cannoli, made from its Italian owners’ family recipe, in downtown Spokane, North Spokane, Spokane Valley and Cheney. After indulging in the sweet treat, try to reinvent your own with whatever flavors help you work through grief and acceptance. $8 • Tre Palline Gelato Napolitano • 159 S. Lincoln St., Spokane, and other locations

BLUE APRON

Apparently, the only thing you need to look like a Michelin-star chef is a white T-shirt, flowing golden locks and a blue apron. Spokane Restaurant Equipment can’t help with hair care, but can hook you up with a signature blue apron for your Carmy-wannabe. But be warned — once they throw it over their tee, they’ll start to stare obsessively at the clock and yell “YES CHEF!” after everything you say. $5.19 • Spokane Restaurant Equipment • 1750 E. Trent Ave., Spokane

Chowderhead’s Travis Tveit YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

YULE LOG COOKING CLASS

Can’t afford to rent a boat in Copenhagen to up your dessert game? Look no farther than local French pastry chef Toni Flavor of Bowery. Her baking class at Wanderlust Delicato in downtown Spokane will give any aspiring pastry chef the technique to make a traditional Yule Log and the confidence to keep improving. They’ll come back home with fresh ideas, new skills and an unforgettable education. $75 • Wanderlust Delicato • 421 W. Main Ave., Spokane

HOMEMADE MARINARA SAUCE

Is your friend obsessed with throwing their own spaghetti family dinners, but doesn’t have hours to make an authentic sauce? Head up to Trezzi Farm at Green Bluff to get a jar (or jars) of its homemade, rustic marinara sauce, and no one will know that they didn’t labor over the hot stove for hours. The farm also offers ready-tobake entrees and soups if you’re really pressed for time. There may not be thousands of dollars stuffed in each jar, but then again, who knows? $7 • Trezzi Farm • 17710 N. Dunn Rd., Colbert

CAST IRON & COOKIE CUTTERS

Forget Carmy. If Richie is their favorite character, your giftee has probably been trying desperately to recreate Richie’s delicate fine-dining take on Chicago deep dish pizza. Help them out by getting them a vintage, deep-sided, cast iron skillet and cute antique cookie cutters, both of which have been spotted in the far right corner of the Rusty Mug. Let them bake the humongous pie and cut out floral shapes from the center to serve a more refined crowd — though a true Chicagoan would crave the crispy, caramelized crust. Prices vary • The Rusty Mug • 1916 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane

BAKED GOODS SUBSCRIPTION BOX

Chances are, if someone you love loves The Bear, wants to be in The Bear or spends all night bingeing The Bear, they need to chill out. What better way to remind them to take care of themselves than a baked goods subscription box? Every month, they can pick up delicious little self-care sugar-bombs to slow down and sweeten their day. Blissful Whisk’s subscription box includes cupcakes, cookies and cakesicles, while Three Birdies Bakery and Best Cookies Ever Spokane also offer cookie-only subscriptions. $105 • Blissful Whisk • 1612 N. Barker Rd., Spokane Valley n

DECEMBER 7, 2023 GIFT GUIDE 25

GIFET GUID

E S TAT E V I N E YA R D S & W I N E R Y

Celebrate With Us! Stop in at either location for award winning wines, gift a wine club membership or Rivaura merchandise (shirts, sweatshirts, hats). Do you have upcoming events? Christmas parties, Weddings, Anniversaries, Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Remembrance of Life, Corporate Events. Email: events@rivaura.com or eventscda@rivaura.com

GIFTS FOR

VINTAGE SNOBS Consider form and function when shopping for the vintage lifestyle lover in your life BY CHEY SCOTT

f you know someone who’s so into vintage that everything in their house and/or closet is at least 30 years old or older, picking out the perfect gift can seem like a major challenge. Do they already have this rare Pyrex pattern? How do I figure out their denim measurements without directly asking? What if they already have this first-press album?! If you don’t know your giftee’s personal collection well enough, stick to something simpler and flexible, like these functional but also thoughtful objects that can add flair to their living spaces or style.

QUILT COAT (a)

Estate Vineyards & Winery Tasting Room: 21622 Rivaura Ln, Juliaetta, ID

Winery Tasting Room – Coeur d’Alene

505 E Sherman Ave, Coeur d’Alene

Both locations open Wed-Sun Rivaura.com

26 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

Coats and jackets made from the salvageable bits of tattered antique and vintage quilts have been trending for a while as a cozy combo of Americana and fashion. Even if your giftee already has something like it, each of these handmade pieces are wholly one-of-a-kind. And, because they’re worn loose and oversized, knowing a person’s exact size isn’t needed. Locally, Diane Ellsworth sells her upcycled quilt coats — including a cat lady-purrfect collection with fabric appliques — at Teleport Vintage. Spokane-area sewist Ann Schluting sells her collectible, handmade quilt coats via an Etsy storefront, Redux Vintage. $159 • Teleport Vintage + Co. • 917 W. Broadway Ave., Spokane • $200-$350 • Redux Vintage • etsy.com/ ReduxVintageFinds

COCKTAIL GLASS SET (b)

For the person who’s obsessed with midcentury style and vibes, a shiny vintage bar set will add a twinkle to their Danish teak hutch and in their eyes as you say “cheers” with some tasty craft cocktails. From colored glass tumblers to metallic-embellished highball glasses, there are unlimited choices to fit any style, color scheme or budget.

Almost every vintage shop in the region is likely to have numerous choices, including sets which have matching pitchers, trays, shakers and even storage caddies. We know for a fact after recently browsing that 1889 Salvage Co. in the North Monroe Business District has several stunning choices. Prices vary • 1889 Salvage Co. • 2824 N. Monroe St., Spokane

RETRO BOOKS (c)

Displaying pretty books is a popular home decor trend, whether picking covers that are simply pleasing to look at, or titles that showcase a reader’s interests. Vintage books can do both. The well-worn, cloth-covered variety look charming on a shelf or coffee table, but why not take it a step further and pick subjects that also complement your recipient’s personality or interests. Are they a foodie? Consider colorful vintage cookbooks. See something by one of their favorite authors, or a series they loved as a kid? Done! Finn Boy curates a diverse inventory from rare early editions to sturdy tomes that can withstand plenty more page turning. Prices vary • Finn Boy Records, Books & Curio • 620 N. Monroe St., Spokane

UPCYCLED TOTE BAG

“I have too many tote bags,” said no one, ever. For the vintage lover who showcases their sustainable lifestyle with pride, upcycled totes are an easy gift choice. At the ever-popular Boulevard Mercantile just north of downtown Spokane, longtime vendor Traveled Treasures stocks its space with handmade totes made from vintage fabric and old feed and grain sacks. With varying sizes and designs, these sturdy totes are perfect for books, as a daily handbag or to carry treasures found during a vintage shopping outing. $40 • Boulevard Mercantile • 1012 N. Washington St., Spokane n

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Let Us Cater Your Holiday Party

GIFTS FOR

SUSTAINABLE SALLIES

102 E. Francis 509-483-3033 15530 E. Sprague 509-926-5009

deleonfoods.net

412 W Haycraft Ave CDA, ID 208.292.4061

deleonstexmexgrill.com

GU District 1801 N. Hamilton 863-9591 South Hill 2718 E. 57th Ave. 381-5540 North Spokane 10208 N. Division 882-7907

What to get for the person who knows the world is burning and wants to reduce their impacts BY SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL

our environmentally minded friend or loved one might find the United Nations’ recent emissions gap reports to be nightmare fuel, or merely light bedtime reading. Either way, they’re almost certainly focused on shopping local, shopping less for “things,” and supporting fair practices and sustainability when they do buy baubles. Inland Northwest shops offer a variety of local foods, sustainable goods and fair trade items for which you can even recycle this very newspaper to wrap up.

TERRARIUM (a)

There are many benefits to keeping house plants, including cleaner indoor air and a calming aesthetic, but many of the most popular plants require meticulous care. However, there’s a sustainable option that saves time and water: a terrarium. Housed inside a glass container, the plants need very little watering because the jar allows evaporated water to condense and return to the soil in a cyclical fashion. In fact, Fern Plant Shop notes that their terrariums only need to be watered every three to four months. Fern offers terrariums to fit virtually any budget, ranging from small jars that are perfect for desk decorations to much larger self-contained ecosystems. $12-$170+ • Fern Plant Shop • 1526 W. Riverside Ave., Spokane and other locations

LINC FOODS GIFT CARD (b)

One of the better ways to reduce your impact is to eat locally produced food. With less travel and packaging required to get from the farm to your kitchen table, local foods are a great tasting way to live more sustainably.

LINC Foods offers an easy way to connect with local and regional small farms for everything from fresh meat and cheese to mushrooms, condiments, a plethora of fruits and veggies and more. The market offers online ordering and delivery to different pickup spots from Cheney to Coeur d’Alene on different days of the week based on location. Prices vary • LINC Market • Lincfoods.LocalFoodMarketPlace.com/GiftCert

LOTUS TROLLEY BAGS (c)

Speaking of food, your sustainable shopper probably had a collection of reusable bags on hand even before the plastic bag ban took effect in Washington state. But to really up their grocery shopping game, a set of four Lotus Trolley Bags can help, as they feature removable support rods that can hold the bags open inside a standard shopping cart. The machine-washable set features an insulated bag and multiple pockets for things like wine bottles and other goods. $54 • Spokane Refillery • 7413 E. Trent Ave., Spokane Valley

WINNIE NECKLACE

With a focus on empowering vulnerable people around the world, Sandpoint’s Zwazo Nich (meaning “bird nest” in Haitian Creole) offers a wide variety of fair trade goods that aim to help artisans build a sustainable life. Among their collection, find handcrafted jewelry from Vi Bella, a company that employs at-risk people in Haiti and Mexico. The Winnie Necklace is a pretty way to treat your loved one to a gift that can help fight poverty. $32 • Zwazo Nich • 334 N. First Ave., Sandpoint n

DECEMBER 7, 2023 GIFT GUIDE 27

GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

CINEPHILES

Movie-themed board games, colorful soundtracks and all-access passes are perfect for film freaks BY NATHAN WEINBENDER

Gonzaga Choirs: Candlelight Christmas Saturday, Dec 9, 7:30pm Sunday, Dec 10, 2:00pm Featuring special guests St. Aloysius School Choir and Spokane Brassworks

February 16 & 17,2024 Buy Your Tickets Today! “Audiences will see the incomparable PNB dancers performing the best of classical ballet alongside inspired new creations.” – Peter Boal, Artistic Director

The Perfect Gift! Get a special discount on your tickets and an overnight stay at The Davenport Hotel PNB SPONSOR

Email: dance@gonzaga.edu to book your package

211 E. DeSmet, Spokane 509-313-2787 | myrtlewoldsoncenter.org

28 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

he average cinephile has serious opinions about the movies they love. They picked hard-and-fast allegiances during the great Barbenheimer war of 2023. They scrutinize their friends’ DVD collections or evangelize about the benefits of physical media if those friends no longer own discs. They regularly share their Criterion Channel login so you can check out this 10-hour black-and-white Japanese war epic that will change your life. So it might seem like a high-pressure assignment to find the perfect gift for a movie buff, but give them something that’s film-centric and gives them a sense of personal curation, and they’ll swoon.

OPPOSABLE THUMBS (a)

Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert spent years bickering about movies on the small screen, and their thumbs up/thumbs down rating system made them cultural icons. Matt Singer’s new book Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever is not only a dual biography of the critics, it’s a history of their scrappy show, a portrait of a rivalry that developed into a prickly friendship, and a look at the ways in which they used their platform to bring mainstream attention to the art of film criticism. The movie lover on your list is sure to give it two thumbs up. $29 • Available at Auntie’s Bookstore, Wishing Tree Books, The Well Read Moose

SPOKANE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL PASS

The lineup for 2024’s Spokane International Film Festival hasn’t been announced yet, but that’s actually going to be a selling point for a lot of film fans. Adventurous moviegoers get a kick out of walking into a theater totally

cold, and giving them a full festival pass is almost like presenting them with a fun challenge: See as many movies as you possibly can. SpIFF 2024 runs Feb. 9-16 and will offer both in-person and virtual screenings. If past events are an indicator, it will include screenings on local screens like the Magic Lantern and Bing Crosby theaters. $75-$125 • spokanefilmfestival.org/festival/tickets

GARLAND THEATER ANNUAL PASS

Movie geeks tend to be for the theatrical experience, especially the experience of visiting a grand old movie palace. Built in 1945, the Garland Theater is a jewel of the cinematic past, the sort of one-screen, art-deco movie house that’s an endangered species these days. Buying an annual Garland pass upfront means you don’t need to pay admission for regular screenings of new movies, familyfriendly classics and cult favorites. Plus, the adjoining Bon Bon bar is the ideal place for a spirited after-movie discussion. $75 • Garland Theater • 924 W. Garland Ave., Spokane

VINYL MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS (b)

Any discerning cinephile will tell you that the art of the soundtrack has been something of a lost one — at least, until recently. The soundtrack to the year’s biggest hit, Barbie, not only features new songs by pop superstars Dua Lipa, Charli XCX and Billie Eilish, it’s also got the Ryan Gosling-sung rager “I’m Just Ken.” And the pièce de résistance? It’s all pressed on pink wax, of course. Daniel Pemberton’s score for Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is as jazzy and genre-defying as its accompanying visuals, and it’s now available on orange- and purple-marbled vinyl. Alexander Payne’s The Holdovers is set in vinyl’s original heyday, and its recent soundtrack release includes

Zags Gear for Every Fan in the Family

Show your Zag pride all year long! Zagshop.com 801 E. Desmet | Free guest parking on 3rd floor | 509.313.6860

early ’70s classics and vintage Christmas favorites. And Dreamin’ Wild, one of the most high-profile Spokane-shot films of recent years, has also got a groove-worthy soundtrack, which boasts new and old recordings from Donnie, Joe and Nancy Emerson. If your local record store of choice doesn’t have these in stock, they can most definitely order a copy for you — consider 4,000 Holes, Bigfoot Records, Resurrection Records, or the Long Ear in Coeur d’Alene. Prices vary

HORROR MOVIE SURVIVAL BOARD GAMES (c)

Is your resident film fan also a horror fan? Then no doubt they’ve spent time devising hypothetical exercises about how well they’d fare in the environments of their favorite terror flicks. It makes sense, then, that the board game market has glommed onto the horror movie genre like a facehugger. The Alien board game lets you pretend you’re on the crew of the doomed ship Nostromo. The game inspired by 1974’s The Texas Chainsaw Massacre has players work together so they don’t end up on Leatherface’s dinner table. John Carpenter’s 1982 classic The Thing has a hefty board counterpart that allows for up to eight players, with one of them secretly taking on the role as a shapeshifting creature. It inspires the same question the film did — how well do you truly know your friends? $40-$75 • Uncle’s Games • 404 W. Main Ave., Spokane• 14700 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley

MIYAZAKI MEMORABILIA

Sure, Disney has made its share of beloved animated treasures, but even they don’t have the pristine track record of Japan’s Studio Ghibli and its grandmaster, Hayao Miyazaki. Boo Radley’s has a range of products perfect for any Ghibli fan, including a porcelain tea cup covered in characters from 2002’s Oscar-winning Spirited Away and wooden chopsticks featuring everything from Totoro to Calcifer from Howl’s Moving Castle. And there’s also a collection of beautiful plush cover notebooks emblazoned with Ghibli characters, including the cantankerous cat Jiji from Kiki’s Delivery Service. $11.95-$32.95 • Boo Radley’s • 232 N. Howard St., Spokane n

Always supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Spokane 11008 N. Newport Hwy Spokane, WA 99218 Spokane Valley 1441 N. Argonne Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99212

One time use only. Must present at time of purchase.

DECEMBER 7, 2023 GIFT GUIDE 29 TheArcOfSpokane_GiftGuide_120723_6S_CPR.pdf

GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

SWIFTIES

Since you probably can’t afford tickets to the Eras Tour, here are some alternative gifts for the Taylor Swift fan in your life BY MADISON PEARSON

e all know one. (And, secretly or not so secretly, most of us are one.) Swifties are taking over the world with Taylor Swift at the head of the operation. She’s dominating ticket sales, movie theaters, the Billboard charts and just about every corner of the internet. Even though the Swiftie in your life is probably begging for tickets to her 151-stop Eras Tour, here are a few gift ideas that are a bit more easily obtained.

VINTAGE CARDIGAN

Miss Swift’s merch drops are notorious for selling out in an instant. It’s almost impossible to get one of her album-themed sweaters (which cost a pocket-emptying $80). If your Swiftie friend hasn’t gotten their hands on one of these coveted items yet, grab them a fun vintage cardigan to hold them over. You can stick with a neutral color for the Folklore enthusiasts out there or go full-on ‘70s for the Swifties who still can’t get enough of Midnights. If you put some thought and time into this, they definitely won’t feel like an old cardigan under someone’s bed. They’ll feel like your favorite. $15-$30 • Collective Threads • 719 W. Garland Ave., Spokane

30 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

SPECIALTY BEADS (a)

Not only does Taylor Swift have a chokehold on the music industry, but she also single-handedly made friendship bracelets cool again. Sure, you can buy some cheap plastic beads from a craft store for your Swiftie friend, but where’s the fun in being just like everyone else? Grab some unique beads from Wonders of the World’s Bead Shop in the Flour Mill to make sure their bracelets stick out among the rest. Grab a cat bead to signify Taylor’s undying love for Meredith, Benjamin and Olivia. There are literally hundreds of options. $0.05-$2.50/each • Wonders of the World Bead Shop • 621 W. Mallon Ave., Spokane

MARYHILL 2021 SAUVIGNON BLANC (b)

One thing about Taylor Swift, she’s gonna have a glass of white wine whenever she can. If the Swiftie you’re buying gifts for is above the legal drinking age, grab them this fantastic white wine from Maryhill Winery made with grapes from the Columbia Valley. If they’re tired of the cheap-ass screw-top rosé they’ve been drinking, this is a level-up. $21 • Maryhill Winery Spokane Tasting Room • 1303 W. Summit Pkwy., Spokane

APPAREL FROM ALLGOODARTISTRY (c)

First rule about being a Swiftie? Support other Swifties. Allgood Artistry, aka Leslie Allgood, is a local Spokane maker who dedicates her time to making incredible Taylor Swift-themed items. (You didn’t hear it from me, but her stuff is way cuter than Taylor’s own merch!) The Lover shirt will have your Swiftie friend skipping down 16th Avenue and the Taylor’s Version shirt will be worn as a big screw you to public enemy #1, aka Scooter Braun. $25 • allgoodartistry.com

ADOPT A CAT (d)

There’s probably nothing Taylor Swift loves more than cats. Only — and I mean only — if your Swiftie friend is prepared, willing and able, you can cover the adoption fee for a sweet cat in need of a home. There are so many cats and kittens in the area looking for loving homes and there’s no one better than a Swiftie to love and care for them. Oh, and I’ve got the perfect name picked out: Karma. $25-$130 • Spokane Humane Society • 6607 N. Havana St., Spokane • spokanehumanesociety.org n

Make your holiday celebrations pop with our exquisite selection!

GIFTS FOR

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BY COLTON RASANEN

ast year we detailed some perfect gifts for those video-gaming loved ones. So this year, we’re focusing on the underrepresented nerdy, tabletop gamers who often are just looking to have a good time as a dark elf rogue — or something like that, I think. From sets of beautiful dice to board game classics, the Inland Northwest’s collection of game stores should have something for your gamer BFF.

SAGE’S KALEIDOSCOPES POLYHEDRAL DICE SET (a)

This gorgeous dice set will make any constitution roll a statement — even if you rolled a Nat 1 (that’s like “snake eyes” to our non-playing readers). While Sage’s Portal sells tons of dice sets in different colors and materials, like acrylic, gemstones, metal and resin, we’re specifically recommending this salmon cracked glass dice set with a glossy finish. The nude-pink glimmer with every roll is the perfect flash to accompany the elusive natural 20 you hope to roll. $50 • Sage’s Portal • 611 E. Second Ave., Spokane

A SONG OF ICE & FIRE: TABLETOP MINIATURES GAME (b)

Even though HBO’s Game of Thrones may have ruined its own reputation with a slapped-together series finale that misunderstood its own characters, that doesn’t mean nerds can’t remain faithful to the source material — George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire. Though one can only do so much with their imagination, this tabletop game allows fans the opportunity to expand on the world they’ve read all about and beat their friends while doing it. $100 • The Gamer’s Haven • 1403 W. Broadway Ave., Spokane

D&D PLAYER’S HANDBOOK (c)

Let’s face it, we all know someone who plays Dungeons & Dragons religiously, and any gift with the branded D&D logo will probably suffice. But for the somehow uninitiated nerdy friend, this book is their entry into the imaginative fantasy world. With guidance on how to create characters and other basic resources like what spells you can even cast, this book will help shape the new D&D player into a pro in no time. $50 • Merlyn’s Comics and Games • 15 W. Main Ave.

F500 UNIVERSAL FIGHT STICK

This gift is for the gamer who remembers playing Street Fighter II at their local arcade for a quarter per turn and killing it with Chun-Li every time. The F500 Universal Fight Stick controller brings the arcade into the home in a burst of nostalgia. And with powerhouse fighting franchises like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat releasing new additions in 2023 and Tekken 8 slated for January 2024, this gift will get tons of use. Plus, it’s much harder to throw across a room than a traditional controller. $90 • Game World • 8701 N. Division St., Spokane • 5725 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

SETTLERS OF CATAN

This gift is for the uninitiated but hopeful tabletop gamer. While it’s not as complicated as Magic: The Gathering or as imaginative as Dungeons & Dragons, it does seem like a precursor to becoming a nerdy gamer. I mean, I’m not saying that every gamer loves playing Settlers of Catan, but I just know in my heart that most of them have played and sneakily beat their competitors with an instant two points for having the longest road. $60 • Uncle’s Games • 14700 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley • 404 W. Main Ave., Spokane n

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 GIFT GUIDE 31

GIFET GUID

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GIFTS FOR

2021

PEOPLE WITH TOO MUCH STUFF Thoughtful presents that don’t add to an accumulation of meaningless objects BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

hat do you get someone who says, “I don’t need any gifts this year, I have too much stuff,” or who isn’t a fan of receiving physical items as gifts? Rather than opting for money or not getting them a gift at all, consider giving them something experience-based. There’s no need to add to the waste stream by gifting friends and family something they won’t ever use when you can give them the opportunity to connect with others — including you! — and spend time exploring their hobbies and interests.

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If you’re looking for something for your artistic-inclined loved ones, sign them up for a class at Pinot’s Palette. Each class features step-by-step instructions from local artists who help guide you through the painting process. Pick from a variety of subjects such as holiday scenes, flowers, forest sunsets and even blacklight paintings that glow in the dark. You can book a class in the studio for you and the gift recipient — as long as you’re both 21 or older — or for those with more unpredictable schedules, consider buying a take-home art kit that includes a video tutorial and all of the materials needed to make a masterpiece. $34-$46 • Pinot’s Palette • 319 W. Sprague Ave., Spokane • 728 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene

WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB

Searching for something special for a close friend, significant other or family member? Consider splurging on Vino! A Wine Shop’s Wine of the Month Club subscription. The membership includes a wine bin at Vino! where your monthly wine is held until pickup. There are five membership levels, so your recipient can choose anything from value red and/or white wines to higher-end varietals for a splurge. To give someone a membership, head down to Vino! and secure a bin that’ll be filled with a brand new

wine each month. $15-$100/month • Vino! A Wine Shop • 222 S. Washington St., Spokane

FOREVER JEWELRY (b)

This may be the perfect gift for someone who doesn’t want more stuff for one simple reason: They’ll never have to buy another piece of jewelry again! Simple Wildflower offers permanent rings, bracelets, anklets and necklaces that are either gold filled, solid gold or sterling silver. Don’t fret, there are ways to easily remove the jewelry if ever needed, but it’s a great option for accessory lovers who want to enjoy their staple pieces forever. $20-$150+ • Simple Wildflower • 112 S. Monroe St., Spokane

ICE SKATING PASS

For someone who likes to get outside in the winter but doesn’t want to trek out to a ski resort, get them a pass to ice skate at the Numerica Skate Ribbon in Riverfront Park. Passes don’t include skates, but you can add unlimited skate rental for $16.11, and there are youth and adult pass options. With a 650-foot-long icy pathway and some slight inclines and declines along the loop, the ribbon is great for novice and experienced ice skaters alike. $27.95$38.95 • Numerica Skate Ribbon • 720 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane

STATE PARKS PASS (c)

The Inland Northwest is known for its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including a multitude of public lands. Both Washington’s and Idaho’s state parks require parking passes, so buying an annual pass makes getting outdoors and hiking through scenic lands much easier. In Washington an annual Discover Pass costs $30, and in Idaho the annual Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee Pass is $80. Both passes can be easily purchased online. $30-$80, parks.wa.gov, parksandrecreation.idaho.gov n

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GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

THE FRESHLY HEARTBROKEN From anger to acceptance, find gifts for whatever stage of grief your friend is in BY COLTON RASANEN

K, so your friend is single during the holidays. Unfortunately, regardless of intent, some gifts just won’t be well received if they’re depressed, enraged or just in downright denial. So, here’s what you’re going to need to do. First, assess what stage of grief they’re in. Then buy a gift that makes sense. And remember, while many feel unbridled joy during the holiday season, these friends probably won’t.

EMBROIDERY KIT (a)

gift receiver to key their ex’s car or slash a few tires, allow them to explore the emotion in a legally sound way. A one-way ticket to a rage room is sure to let them blow off some steam and smash, well, everything. Also, Rage Xscape accepts donated items, so make sure to have them bring any breakable gifts their ex ever gave them. $40/person • Rage Xscape • 122 S. Division St., Spokane

BIG SWISS (b)

Embroidery isn’t the most thrilling hobby in the world, but it sure is time-consuming. Instead of weaving a web of lies in their own brain to make everything seem OK, they can weave a web of thread into a piece of fabric. Between the intricate work it takes to just thread a needle and the finger-stabbing work of actually designing the canvas, there won’t be any time to think about a relationship that no longer exists. $28 • Paradise Fibers • 225 W. Indiana Ave., Spokane

If your friend is in the Wednesday-stage of grief — bargaining — it may be best to get them another distraction to escape to. The quirkier the better, like Big Swiss by Jen Beagin. The novel follows the life of Greta who lives in an ancient Dutch house filled with bees and works to transcribe therapy sessions of a sex coach who calls himself Om. Greta ends up infatuated with one of Om’s clients and from there an outlandish love story begins — perfect to take their mind off the struggles of their past relationship. $17 • Wishing Tree Books • 1410 E. 11th Ave., Spokane

MINI RAGE PACKAGE

FIRE AND FROST FACIAL

After an initial bout of denial, rage may begin to set in for the recently single. But, instead of encouraging your broken-hearted

Let’s face it, when we’re depressed we tend to let things as simple as skincare fall by the wayside. While those feelings are valid, it

doesn’t justify the neglect of our poor pores. So get a gift that takes the stress away from your sad-sack friend and their skin. Any facial will suffice, but the Fire and Frost Facial at Cashmere Boutique Spa hits all the best spots. From the detoxifying effects of a heated treatment to the soothing benefits of a cooling treatment, your friend is sure to feel some sort of joy (for at least 75 minutes, that is). $110 • Cashmere Boutique Spa • 621 W. Mallon Ave., Spokane

KITCHENAID STAND MIXER (c)

Finally, acceptance. Your friend is beginning to see the world through clearer, optimistic eyes. A cloud of despair has been lifted, and the world has begun turning again for them. With their renewed sense of awareness, they’ll realize, “Damn, my husband really took the KitchenAid stand mixer in the divorce.” Now, this might be a bit spendy, but moving beyond a past relationship is a celebratory moment. Also, it’s important to remember, handmixing an array of batters and doughs is not becoming of someone celebrating acceptance. $600 • The Kitchen Engine • 621 W. Mallon Ave., Spokane n

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GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

PROCRASTINATORS Last-minute suggestions that aren’t gift cards from grocery store kiosks BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

mid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to push off gift buying until the last minute. You could always fall back on a gift card, but let’s face it, there are plenty of local shops that sell great options that would be as thoughtful last-minute gifts for a myriad of people in your life.

LILAC CITY HOODIE (a)

Great for prideful Spokanites, new residents or frequently returning visitors, a Lilac City hoodie is a great gift for someone in love with Spokane. Available in sand or the obligatory lilac color, the hoodie has a stylized lilac bunch with the coordinates and elevation of Spokane in clean, black letters at the bottom. Designed by graphic artist Greg Larson, it’s a simple homage to our little city and great for staying warm during the cold winter months. $65 • From Here • 808 W. Main Ave., Spokane

CUDDLE + KIND BABY ANIMALS

Sometimes finding a gift for a niece, nephew or young kid in your life can be difficult under any time frame. French Toast - Mama & Mini in Kendall Yards has puzzles, toys and clothes for kids of all ages, but one thing that’s great for almost any baby or toddler is a stuffed animal. The Cuddle+Kind baby animals are handmade in Peru and Nepal with sustainable and fair-trade practices, and come in the form of a white or pink bunny rabbit, a kitten or a lamb. $36 • French Toast Mama & Mini • 1170 W. Summit Pkwy., Spokane

PACIFIC NORTHWEST PRINT (b)

Vintage Print + Neon in the Garland District sells numerous retro-inspired designs paying tribute to various cities and

landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. One such print features a burly lumberjack trekking through the region’s wooded wilderness with a tree trunk on his shoulder and an ax in his other hand. This Pacific Northwest print can be purchased online or in store, and gives someone the chance to show off their love for the PNW. $30 • Vintage Print + Neon • 914 W. Garland Ave., Spokane

DOMA COFFEE BEANS (c)

If you have an avid coffee drinker in your life, consider grabbing them a new roast from DOMA Coffee Roasters. DOMA has a multitude of coffee varieties and blends, such as Colombian beans or the medium roast Vito’s Blend. For caffeinated cyclists, consider the La Bicicletta blend, which helps fund biking trails in Zion National Park. And for winter recreation enthusiasts, the DEEP blend gives $1 to Protect Our Winters, an organization working to protect the outdoors against climate change. DOMA has instant coffee blends, too, for those in need of a quick pick-me-up throughout the day. $16-$100 • DOMA Coffee Roasting Company • 6240 E. Seltice Way, Post Falls

SOY CANDLE (d)

For someone who loves spending cozy winter nights at home, consider something from The Candle Bar Co. Made with soy wax and clean fragrances, its collection of over 40 candles features numerous fruity, floral, gourmand, herbaceous, autumnal and holiday scents. The Candle Bar Co. also can refill your own candle containers with the same or a new scent, so it’s a gift that keeps on giving. $10.50-$24 • The Candle Bar Co. • 817 W. Garland Ave., Spokane n

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Goes Through December 10 S P O K A N E ’ S P R E M I E R H O L I D AY AT T R A C T I O N

GIFT GUIDE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Gift Guide

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GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

KIDS WITH TOO MANY SCREENS Phones, tablets and game consoles will fall from favor to these crafty, creative hands-on gifts BY RENÉE SANDE

he signs are all there: the glazed over, bloodshot eyes, the emotional outbursts caused by the lack of uninterrupted sleep, the letter to Santa asking for “a lightning cable, nano charger, and lightspeed wireless headset” that sounds more like a prop list for Back to the Future than any sort of Christmas wishlist. So let’s dial it back in time a bit and shelve the electronics for some oneon-one time with any of these (gasp!) sans-screen hobbies that require the use of more digits than only opposable thumbs. Who knows, you may just find your kid sitting next to you, popcorn in hand, ready to watch Doc send Marty and a 1981 DeLorean into the future via flux capacitor (TV screen approved in this instance).

GENETICS & DNA LAB (a)

If your kids ever give you that look like “How are you my parents?” and claim to feel more of a kinship with the mailman, give them the goods to conduct an in-depth investigation of the family genetics and DNA. Warning: The 20 different experiments in this set’s full-color, 48-page manual may cause hair to stand on end, put a gleam in eyes and cause them to cackle with delight! But you’ll delight in seeing that abandoned phone atop the fridge — for hours. $30 • Whiz Kids • 808 W. Main Ave., Spokane

DIY MINIATURE HOUSE (b)

There’s something about creating a miniature living space that sparks the imagination and makes you want to shrink yourself so you could jump right in. Trending miniature building kits aren’t limited to tiny, dream living spaces like this one, though, and other fantastical options include trains, coffee shops, bookstores and even teeny tiny greenhouses! Put this under the tree, and chances are a new addiction may be born. $45 • Figpickels Toy Emporium • 210 W. Sherman Ave, Coeur d’Alene

FLOUR SHOP BAKING KIT

The holidays require lots of baking, so give the kiddos on your list the goods to whip up delicious concoctions that will have you “oohing” and “ahhing” rather

38 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

than barking at them to turn off the gaming console. This colorfully creative bakery-in-a-box just needs a few fresh ingredients and an imagination to make home-baked confetti cupcakes with a twist. You may just see a new Cake Boss come to life and have cake coming out your ears for the unseeable future, but the gaming console will be on ice (stranger things have happened). $50 • Williams & Sonoma • 808 W. Main Ave., Spokane

THE ORIGINAL SUPER SPIROGRAPH

An oh-so-fun retro classic that combines math with… creativity?! Yes, it’s true! This wildly addictive pastime introduces kids to geometric mathematical curves of the variety technically known as hypotrochoids and epitrochoids, or — for the non-mathematical genius — hours and hours of fun, swirly shapes that repeat themselves to form a super-cool design. Using just pen and paper, kids can delight in creating the old-school way while nearby adults likely find it hard not to revisit their own childhood by joining in. $19 • The General Store • 2424 N. Division St., Spokane

PAINT-BY-NUMBERS KIT (c)

Bob Ross made it look as easy as paint-by-numbers, so pass on the zen with these kits designed to make even the-kid-without-an-artistic-bone-in-theirbody feel otherwise. From the colorful, whimsical packaging to the cheerful illustrations, you might find your kid branching out with their own “happy little trees.” So, let them paint! After all, happy kid = happy parents! $38 • Paper Nerd • 808 W. Main Ave.

THROW THROW BURRITO (d)

Who doesn’t like a good burrito? Or getting sacked in the face with one? And to combine it with dodgeball?! Who was this genius that created such a pairing, one not seen since the suggestion of cheese with wine, you ask? (Side note: Wine should be put safely away for this game.) It doesn’t matter, but what does is to quickly collect as many matching cards as possible while simultaneously ducking, dodging and throwing squishy airborne burritos. $30.95 • Boo Radley’s • 232 N. Howard St., Spokane n

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GIFET GUID

GIFTS FOR

SOMEONE WITH THE ZOOMIES Burn off some calories or warm up some muscles with these super active indoor and outdoor gifts

about their forearm strength). $80-$160 • Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym • 233 E. Lyons Ave., Spokane • Wild Walls Climbing Gym • 202 W. Second Ave., Spokane

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

o one likes to be cooped up inside all winter, or be cooped up inside all winter with someone who has waaaay too much energy. Colder weather doesn’t mean they have to hibernate. If someone you love wants to get moving, get their heart rate up or blow off some steam, give them something that will help them stay healthy and strong in body, heart and mind!

He knows if you’ve been bad or good

ROCK CLIMBING PUNCH CARD

YAKTRAX (a)

Does this person hate the cold but want to try a new sport this winter? If your loved one is trying to do pull-ups on your door frames, purposely tumbling over furniture or threatening to turn your kitchen into a parkour course, surprise them with a prepaid punch card to a rock climbing gym. At Bloc Yard or Wild Walls, they can scale walls and stretch their wingspan at no risk to you (although you still run the risk of them becoming increasingly obnoxious

Winter is a great time to get outside if you have the right gear. Head over to Rambleraven Gear Trader to find gently used, discounted equipment and accessories to help your friends and family make the most out of this beautiful season. Snag a pair of barely used YakTrax for your favorite dog walker, trail runner or downtown commuter, and watch the recipient run out the door without fear of ice or snow. $17-$25, availability varies • Rambleraven Gear Trader • 3220 N. Division St., Spokane

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40 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

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POWERBLOCK DUMBBELLS (b)

Your recipient doesn’t need to go outside to get the gains. Let them pump iron at home with their very own set of expandable PowerBlock dumbbells, a space saving pair of weights that can weigh anywhere from 5 to 50 pounds. While you’re there, check out what other gadgets Spokane Exercise Equipment has in stock, like resistance bands, ab wheels, or foam rollers, to help round out a home gym. The more movement they can add during these chilly months, the warmer and happier they (and you) will be. $409; availability varies • Spokane Exercise Equipment • 511 W. Main Ave., Spokane

HOT YOGA CLASS

It can be hard to work up a sweat when it’s below freezing. Why

not treat your giftee to a steaming hot yoga class that will warm them and their muscles up? Beyoutiful Hot Yoga offers eight types of classes at five different locations around Spokane and Coeur d’Alene (and Wenatchee). All are “HOT,” except for the Yin class, which is “warm.” No matter what, it’s sure to feel toasty compared to the swirling snow outside. $29 for a drop-in class • Beyoutiful Hot Yoga • locations vary

USED SNOWBOARD (c)

Let it snow, and let them shred. Help them dominate the mountain with a new-to-them but affordable-to-you snowboard, like the ones sold at Gear Garage in Coeur d’Alene. Inventory constantly changes, but no matter what, you’ll be able to find high quality gear from brands like Elan, Rossignol, Völkl, K2, Head, Burton and

Lib Tech at gnarly prices. Prices vary • Gear Garage • 1325 E. Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene

HIGH-SPEED GO-KART RACE

What better way to get rid of the Zoomies than whip laps in a high-speed go-kart? They may not be working many muscles, but they’ll get their heart rate pumping and their competitive streak racing at Spokane’s indoor speedway, FastKart. Forget about the black ice outside and put the pedal to the metal inside. The best gift might be letting them win, but you don’t have to be that selfless. $32-$54 • FastKart Indoor Speedway • 1224 E. Front Ave., Spokane n

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42 GIFT GUIDE DECEMBER 7, 2023

SCREEN | REVIEW

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MOVIE TIMES on

Anne Hathaway and Thomasin McKenzie showcase crackling chemistry in Eileen.

Women on the Verge Eileen is a dark, fascinating exploration of hidden desires BY JOSH BELL

t first, Eileen Dunlop (Thomasin McKenzie) just seems like she needs a little compassion. The title character of director William Oldroyd’s Eileen is a shy, unassuming secretary in 1960s Massachusetts, drifting through her job at a local boys’ detention center and her home life with her mean alcoholic dad (Shea Whigham), a retired police chief. If only someone would pay careful attention to her, she could blossom into a confident and happy young woman. The truth is darker than that, though, and one of the delights of Eileen is its slow reveal of how twisted Eileen herself really is. She obviously has plenty of pent-up sexual desire, as demonstrated in the opening scene as she masturbates in her car while spying on a couple making out at the beach. That desire finds a new outlet when she meets Rebecca St. John (Anne Hathaway), a psychologist who’s just been hired to work at the prison. The glamorous Rebecca, with her platinum blonde hair and stylish outfits, is an outlier in Eileen’s drab town and in their workplace, the kind of male-dominated space where the warden introduces her as “Dr. Miss St. John.” While Eileen’s fellow secretaries treat her mostly with contempt, Rebecca appears to understand her, to see the complex person beneath the surface. Eileen is immedi-

ately smitten with her, and McKenzie and both speaking in perfectly exaggerated MasHathaway let their sexual tension simmer sachusetts accents. Marin Ireland makes the when Rebecca invites Eileen out for a drink most of her brief spotlight as the mother at the town’s only bar. Rebecca rebuffs the of one of the imprisoned boys, delivering advances of the crude local men and instead a monologue that’s equal parts disgusting dances only with Eileen. The period setting and tragic. The lush visuals, often bathed and the pairing of the brunette introvert in shades of red, suggest the lurid, seedy with the fashionable older blonde evoke world of film noir, and both Eileen and Todd Haynes’ Carol, and Eileen initially Rebecca fulfill the function of femme fatale comes off like a similar story of longing and at different points in the story. repression. As he did in Lady Macbeth, In its third act, though, Oldroyd presents a sometimes Eileen Eileen takes a sharp turn into monstrous woman as a figure Rated R more violent territory, in of empowerment, bringing Directed by William Oldroyd a surprising but satisfying immediacy and a touch of Starring Thomasin McKenzie, shift. The dynamic between nastiness to his adaptation Anne Hathaway, Shea Whigham Eileen and Rebecca, in which of Ottessa Moshfegh’s 2015 the older, more experienced novel. Moshfegh co-wrote the woman takes the lead, undergoes a transscreenplay with her husband, Luke Goebel, formation and remains unsettled for the and the couple avoids many of the pitfalls rest of the film. McKenzie and Hathaway of literary adaptation, giving Oldroyd the deftly handle the fluidity of the relationship, chance to show rather than tell — to use and their smoldering chemistry anchors the imagery instead of narration to get into the movie. The characters’ actions may initially characters’ heads. Eileen’s periodic flights of come as a shock, but the actors bring confancy, in which she imagines sudden carnal sideration and depth to every rash decision, or violent acts, are more insightful than any That’s not to say that Eileen is a natuvoiceover. ralistic film — like Oldroyd’s bold, striking In the end, it’s Eileen’s inscrutability 2016 debut Lady Macbeth, Eileen is heightthat is the most alluring, both for Rebecca ened and stylized, from its old-fashioned and for the audience. The movie gives her opening credits to the deliberately manthe space to finally be herself, however nered performances from the two leads, dangerous or seductive that may be. n

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y err M& t h g i r B

City Sidewalks

r Find you

DowntownSpokane.org

UNCLE’S GAMES

SHOPPING

Holiday Festivities Santa Photos Presented by STCU: Now - December 24 Terrain’s BrrrZAAR: December 16 Santa Sponsor:

DOWNTOWN SPOKANE | RIVERPARKSQUARE.COM

Giving the Gift of Local

uying from small, local vendors at the holidays is a great way to support your community while also purchasing distinctive gifts that can’t be found anywhere else. And THE SMALL BIZ SHOPPE at River Park Square makes it easier than ever to connect with those vendors. In this flexible space, the artists, crafters, makers and microbusinesses that you might find online at Etsy or locally at pop-up markets can showcase their wares. Not only do you get to browse all that variety, you also get to talk with them personally about what makes their products special. “With over 100 different small and local sellers, we offer a wide selection of unique products. We’re sure to have something for everyone on your shopping list,” says owner Jordan Mitch. Since taking over the historic Dodson’s Jewelers building in late 2019, JOHNSONS CUSTOM JEWELRY (516 W. Riverside) has upheld the high quality and outstanding

customer service for which Dodson’s was renowned. Johnson’s has a showroom of necklaces, rings, pendants, earrings and much more, ranging from budgetconscious to the height of opulence. But the company’s reputation is built on designing one-of-a-kind custom pieces that have special significance to both the giver and the wearer. And if designing a piece from the ground up seems too daunting, keep in mind that they can also repair and restore beloved heirlooms. For a gift that can be re-experienced over and over by multiple age groups, check out UNCLE’S GAMES (404 W. Main, inside Auntie’s). This play-centric mecca has everything from card and board games to puzzles and collectibles. Young roleplayers can get into storytelling games like Magical Kitties Save the Day or No Thank You, Evil!, while slightly older players can compete to connect railroads in Ticket to Ride or race to construct colossal structures in 7 Wonders. 

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arper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is considered one of the greatest works of modern fiction and has never been out of print since it was published in 1960. Combine that with a stage adaptation by award-winning writer and filmmaker Aaron Sorkin (The West Wing, A Few Good Men, Moneyball) and Broadway director Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, Camelot), and you’ve got a play that brings new depth, tension and perspective to this American classic. Richard Thomas (The Waltons, Ozark) stars as lawyer Atticus Finch, who’s tasked with defending Tom Robinson (played by Yaegel T. Welch) against grave but unjust charges in a racially biased Southern town. The nationally touring show runs from through Dec. 10 at the First Interstate Center for the Arts. Head to broadwayspokane.com for tickets and showtimes. 

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HUMBLE ABODE BREWING

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hroughout the holiday season, you’re almost certain to find some kind of event at BRICK WEST BREWING CO. (1318 W. First Ave). This local craft brewery has become a hub for all sorts of activities — whether it’s a pop-up Christmas tree farm, trivia nights or charitable fundraisers. But no matter when you arrive, there’s always something new to experience from their huge list of house beers. Try a darker ale like the Séamus Irish dry stout or double your pleasure with the Pilsner and IPA hybrid known as Out Cold. A hearty menu of sandwich-style mains and shareables rounds things out. Hard to believe that ONE TREE CIDER (111 S. Madison St.), now one of the region’s premier cideries, started life as a mix-up between a cider-making kit and a beermaking kit. It’s a classic American garageto-glory story. When it comes to seasonal offerings, few things can top One Tree’s

Snowglobe cider, which offers a visual treat reminiscent of its namesake. You can sample it in house and then order bottles in six- or 12-packs to ship to your friends and family out of town. Maybe it has something to do with being family owned and operated, but HUMBLE ABODE BREWING (926 W. Sprague Ave.) is all about making you feel welcome as soon as you enter. “Everybody who walks in the door is important to us,” says owner and brewing director Matt Gilbreath. “It might sound silly, but we really want to get to know our customers. That’s why we chose the name Humble Abode. We want to make you feel like you’re at home and comfortable.” They’re holding an ugly Christmas sweater party with raffles, discounts and prizes on Dec. 16, and later in the season they’ll be offering a limited-run imperial porter made using homemade gingerbread. 

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46 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

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Facetime with Santa

ight at the foot of the grand, glittering 50-foot tree in the River Park Square atrium sits the man in red everyone wants some face time with, Santa Claus. And what better way to preserve this year’s holiday memories than a photo with the jolly old elf himself? Even though you might not want to leave it until the last minute (after all, Santa has got a globe-circling trip ahead of him), he’s available for photos right up until Christmas Eve. As a bonus, STCU members receive $10 off holiday photo packages when they use an STCU credit or debit card at purchase on-site or online. Just enter the first six digits of your credit or debit card as the promo code when you’re checking out. Visit riverparksquare.com to reserve a photo session ahead of time. 

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 47

City Sidewalks

SKEWERS

FOOD

They Started as a Food Truck!

et’s say you’re out doing your holiday shopping. You and your group have all worked up an appetite, and you’re fiending for some classic comfort food to hit the spot. Those are all the right conditions for MAC DADDY’S in River Park Square, where their specialty is the stuff of nostalgia-fueled fever dreams. Sure, they offer a tempting array of gourmet burgers, cheesesteaks and sandwiches, but Mac Daddy’s core menu is that all-American staple, mac ’n’ cheese. The basic variety with its multi-cheese blend is ideal for the traditionalists, yet they also offer BBQ , pulled pork and even lobster mac ’n’

cheese for the true aficionados. Like MacDaddy’s, SKEWERS (1009 W. First) also got its start as a local food truck. Its authentic Lebanese-Armenian foods proved so popular that they inspired a viral hashtag, #SpokaneHasShawarma. The menu was also such a hit that Skewers opened its first brickand-mortar location this fall. “Skewers is about my passion to share my culture with Spokane. It is a truly unique space. And I appreciate how Spokane has welcomed and embraced it,” says owner Mirak Kazanjian. One of the best kept secrets about Armenian culture? “They produce amazing wine and some of the best brandy.”

That’s why Skewers also serves bona fide Armenian spirits, wine and beer. Before this summer, the only place you could find GOOD ’DILLA was when their truck appeared at Spokane farmers markets and festivals. Now they’ve got a permanent spot in River Park Square and a stone’s throw from MacDaddy’s. They’re renowned for serving a variety of delicious tacos and quesadillas, some with inspired ingredients. For example, the Island Twist contains chicken, pineapple, pesto and pickled red onions. But the most popular is the Coo, which includes local beef with black beans, pickled red onions, green sauce and a side of salsa. 

NAUGHTY KIDS SHOP AT COOL STORES!

COMING NEXT WEEK

Check out the latest in Downtown Spokane in next week’s edition of CITY SIDEWALKS inside the Inlander. Find out about great dining options inside River Park Square Mall, along with downtown’s big local makers showcase and sale, Brrrzaar.

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WINTER WONDERLAND MARKET

Downtown Holiday Events Winter Wonderland Market This holiday-themed market features a cast of rotating vendors selling gifts, crafts, food and more seasonal items. Holiday movies are to be streamed on screens across the venue. Through Dec. 23; Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm, free admission, The Wonder Building, 835 N. Post St., wondermarketspokane.com

Cup Of Joy Local artists, as well as artists from around the country, display and sell handmade mugs at Trackside Studio. Ceramicists include Spokanite Autumn Bunton (Goblin Pottery), Tuile and Coeur d’Alene-based potter Maya Rumsey. The show features over 150 unique mugs that can be purchased in person or online. Through Jan. 13; Wed-Fri from 11 am-5 pm, free; mug prices vary, Trackside Studio, 115 S. Adams St., tracksidestudio.net

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 49

NEW MUSIC

Falling Into Fresh Sounds Before everyone gets fully into year-end mode, here are some of the best albums released this fall BY SETH SOMMERFELD

THE ENDURING SPIRIT, TOMB MOLD

Can a death metal album be… strangely comforting? While absolutely heavy and thrashing, the soundscape that Toronto’s Tomb Metal crafts on The Enduring Spirit can wash over you like a calming wave (if you allow it). Perhaps the key is singer/drummer Max Klebanoff’s bellowed death metal vocals, mixed in a way that gives them a register akin to deep whispered screams — it’s almost death metal ASMR. If that wasn’t far out enough, the band clearly reveals in musical experimentation mixing elements of jazz, ’70s prog rock and ’00s math rock into the equation as guitarists Derrick Vella and Payson Power lead the album’s melodic path with nimble shredding. Those who take the time to parse the growled lyrics will even find dashes of self-reflective kindness in Klebanoff’s existential musings. What death metal band would dare include the line “let us be gentle when questioning ourselves” in a song (“Flesh as Armour”)? Tomb Mold, that’s who.

HADSEL, BEIRUT

While Beirut’s Balkan-influenced indie folk is usually a group effort boasting an array of players (horns, guitars, percussion, etc.), frontman Zach Condon decided to take things in a one-man-band direction on Hadsel. And the new LP might be the most gorgeous one-man band album in existence. Sparked by his retreat to the Norwegian isle of Hadsel and his time playing the Hadsel Church’s organ, Condon crafts a lushly layered dream of a tone album, playing everything from the aforementioned organ to trumpet, French horn, ukuleles, synths, drum machines, pump organs and accordion. Condon’s swoon-inducing crooner voice carries the collection of blood-pressure-lowering tunes as they float through the air like melancholy lullabies adrift in the air of a foggy European beach in the winter.

JENNY FROM THEBES, THE MOUNTAIN GOATS Jenny From Thebes is an album about sanctuary. The titular Jenny is a character who’s floated in and out of the Mountain Goats’ lore dating back to 2002’s All Hail West Texas, but here singer-songwriter John Darnielle crafts a rock opera sequel to further expand her world. The

50 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

album wrestles with Jenny’s compassionate nature — she thrives when taking downtrodden, vulnerable outcasts into her home for care, but what lengths will one go to protect that sanctuary? What is violence when done in the name of safety? Whether rocking out or gently ruminating in the glow of multi-instrumentalist Matt Douglas’ string and horn arrangements, Darnielle finds Jenny’s emotional core while still allowing her character to remain mysterious — fierce, lovely, and as blurry as her figure speeding off into the West Texas sunset on her black and yellow Kawasaki motorcycle.

THE KING, ANJIMILE

The King is an album of biblical proportion. And not in the friendly, Christ New Testament way. This is Old Testament fire and brimstone shit. Anjimile taps into poetic rage built up by the smothering grief that comes with being Black and trans in America and unleashes it all in a Red Sea torrent of adversary-engulfing emotion. The production warps the singer-songwriter’s folk base into unnerving wails of sound, seemingly delivered by the demonized ghosts of those who’ve suffered like Anjimile. The way he’s able to interweave gut-wrenching lyricism about parental rejection of trans identity, white supremacy, King Belshazzar, substance abuse and savage police brutality into a beautifully ferocious waking nightmare of an album makes Anjimile worthy of the throne.

THE LAND IS INHOSPITABLE AND SO ARE WE, MITSKI

For the first time in her career, Mitski throttles things down on The Land is Inhospitable and So Are We. The grab-you-by-the-collar indie rock and synth pop of prior albums give way to much calmer, folk-twang-tinged, troubled orchestral dream pop. In place of her typical steely urgency, the singer-songwriter is content drifting through a sea of examinations of American contradictions. The Land is Inhospitable and So Are We lingers like an unobtrusive specter, willing to haunt your headspace, but only if you’re prepared to take the time to sit with its decaying translucent vestige.

THE LAST NIGHT OF SADNESS, JENN CHAMPION

Few songwriters can make soul-achinging pains sound as accessible as Jenn Champion. Her band S served up a pantheon-level breakup album in the form of 2014’s Cool Choices, and on The Last Night of Sadness, Champion turns her lyrical gaze to an even more brutal topic: addiction and overdoses. Over a dark synth pop soundscape, she shares excruciating lived-in details about coping with rehab, therapy and friends passing far too soon. Songs like “Jessica” balance graceful mercy for those suffering with their demons (“You called me split open / I still love you, but it hurts now”) and unvarnished anger at the damage those demons cause (“Who ODs in a f—ing hospital? / Stupid, dead Jessica”). There are moments to find hope and love in the face of all the agony (“Love Song (Think About It)”), but at its core The Last Night of Sadness is a beautiful exercise in compassionate coping.

NEW BLUE SUN, ANDRÉ 3000

Does everyone and their mamma (including Ms. Jackson) wish that André 3000 was still rapping? Of course. One of the greatest MCs essentially shutting down Outkast and deciding to hang it up at the top of his game nearly two decades ago leaves a void in our musical consciousness. But on the other hand, there’s something pure about his frustrating abandonment of the genre he mastered. He’s stayed creative on his own terms: acting, making cartoons and now finally coming back with a new album… of ambient new age jazz flute. No… really. The sprawling 87-minute musical exploration is a free-flowing spiritual trip. It’s easy to get lost in the space contours of the instrumental sounds. While it may not be the most elite-level jazz or what fans are clamoring to hear from him, at least André 3000 is still making interesting music.

ALSO DON’T MISS…

ONE MORE TIME…,

BLINK-182

Avalanche - Jenny Owen Youngs City Lights - Wimps The Darker the Shadow the Brighter the Light - The Streets Giant Elk - ME REX Javelin - Sufjan Stevens I Don’t Want You Anymore - Cherry Glazerr PAWS - PAWS Robed in Rareness - Shabazz Palaces Think I’m Gonna Die - KC Rae Tuff Luff - Mansions

Considering the group’s jokey juvenile pop punk core, it’s rather shocking that Blink-182 has somehow managed to age pretty gracefully. Guitarist/singer Tom DeLonge took a break from UFO research to rejoin the group for its new album One More Time… and the results far surpass the last record with the core trio (2011’s immensely forgettable Neighborhoods). DeLonge, bassist/singer Mark Hoppus, and drummer Travis Barker are back in place, and the guys still have an undeniable knack for writing extremely catchy tunes about yearning for love (“Fell in Love,” “Dance with Me”). But Blink-182’s stealthy strength has always been how well the band can pull off the sad and somber songs (think: “Adam’s Songs” and “Stay Together for the Kids”). That ability shines through on One More Time… as the band wrestles with its own mortality and personal history (including Hoppus’ cancer battle and Barker surviving a plane crash) on “One More Time” and “You Don’t Know What You’ve Got.” The guys might be much more aware of their collective mortality, but for now Blink-182 is still kicking.

MONEY ANSWERS FOR PEOPLE WHO PUT THEIR COMMUNITY FIRST.

SOME OF IT WAS TRUE, THE MENZINGERS

The cracks start to show as we age, not only in the lines in our faces but in the tiny fissures in our psyches. Pennsylvanian punks The Menzingers have long traded in nostalgic songwriting reflections that pair rose-colored Heartland rock hues with wailing alternative heartbreak, but Some of It Was True finds the band constantly delivering lyrical gut-punches. Frontman Greg Barnett’s almost-crooning vocal delivery packs a wallop as he’s unflinchingly earnest about wrestling with love and loneliness in their many forms. From unspoken unreciprocated loves (“Hope is a Dangerous Thing”) to the fraying feeling of being an outsider in isolation (“There’s No Place in This World for Me,” “Nobody Stays,” “Alone in Dublin”) to sorting out issues with someone who’s your whole world (“Ultraviolet”), the songwriting has an aching universality and is propelled by the rest of the band’s raw but anthemic rock arrangements. The Menzingers’ complete composure and lack of melodrama injected into the mix only make the melancholy of Some of It Was True ring out that much clearer.

SORRY I HAVEN’T CALLED, VAGABON

Maybe no artist has leveled up their swag more over the past half decade than Vagabon (aka Cameroonian-American singersongwriter Laetitia Tamko). While she emerged with the terrific tender indie rock of her 2017 debut LP Infinite Worlds, Sorry I Haven’t Called finds Vagabon awash in sashaying electro-pop. With production aid from Rostam, there’s a resistance-free liquid flow to the tracks’ blend of house and Afrobeat sounds. They pair seamlessly with Vagabon’s hefty vocals that radiate a confidence even when lyrically exploring feeling off kilter after getting too high (“Can I Talk My Shit?”), people that make you feel like the worst version of yourself (“Do Your Worst”), or insecure and adrift self-evaluation (“Nothing to Lose”). n

numericacu.com

Federally insured by NCUA DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 51

MUSIC | SOUND ADVICE

INDIE POP TV GIRL

ike a stoner spacing out to TV static, it’s easy to get lost in the hypnotic pop of Cali band TV Girl. The group mixes subdued indie sounds with retro ’60s samples to create dreamscapes that entrance audiences (especially Gen Zers; TikTok has certainly helped TV Girl). This summer TV Girl put out its latest neo-psychedelia episode… errr… album, Grapes Upon the Vine. That said, one should expect many of the sonic reruns from prior efforts when the band stops at the Knitting Factory. While the youths snapped up all the tickets to this gig as soon as it was announced, figuring out a way into the show would beat another night on the couch in front of an actual television. — SETH SOMMERFELD TV Girl • Fri, Dec. 8 at 8 pm • Sold out • All ages • Knitting Factory • 919 W. Sprague Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com

J = THE INLANDER RECOMMENDS THIS SHOW J = ALL AGES SHOW

HOLIDAY R&B TOWER OF POWER

Thursday, 12/7

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Thursday Night Jam CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds J THE DISTRICT BAR, Portland Cello Project J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Dr. Don Goodwin J KNITTING FACTORY, Highly Suspect, Carr J MCCRACKEN’S PUB AND BBQ, Nate Ostrander J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin RED ROOM LOUNGE, Hip-Hop Night

— MADISON PEARSON Tower of Power: Hits & Holidays Tour • Fri, Dec. 8 at 7:30 pm • $40-$249 • All ages • The Fox Theater • 1001 W. Sprague Ave. • foxtheaterspokane.org

Friday, 12/8

AK ASIAN RESTAURANT, Dallas Kay ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Isaac Walton THE BEE’S KNEES WHISKEY BAR, Wiebe Jammin’ BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Rusty Nail & The Hammers CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Cary Fly Band CHINOOK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Echo Elysium EICHARDT’S PUB, John Firshi J THE GRAIN SHED, Haywire J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Matty Rebecca Ride Trio INLAND KAVA BAR, Son of Brad IRON HORSE (CDA), The Shift J J KNITTING FACTORY, TV Girl, Jordana MOOSE LOUNGE, Dangerous Type NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Eternal Jones

52 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

ince 1968, Tower of Power has dominated the world of R&B and funk music. The band — with hits like “You’re Still A Young Man” and “What Is Hip?” — is set to fill the beautiful Fox Theater with their classic soul sound this season. This show is a bit different from ToP’s typical fare, however. In addition to original songs, the group is performing classic holiday hits to get attendees in the spirit of the season. Each member of Tower of Power brings something special to the sonic landscape of every show. Whether it’s a smooth saxophone solo by Tom E. Politzer or a stunning vocal riff by Emilio Castillo, the amount of talent packed into ToP is palpable.

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Ron Keiper RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs THE RIDLER PIANO BAR, Just Plain Darin RIVERSIDE PLACE, Dion Timmer, Werd Waifu, Dirty Vacation, Edd Anso THE ROCK BAR & LOUNGE, Nate Ostrander SPOKANE VALLEY EAGLES, Stagecoach West J J THE FOX THEATER, Tower of Power: Holidays & Hits

Saturday, 12/9

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, JJ Dion J THE BIG DIPPER, Rock Club Winter Showcase BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Rusty Nail & The Hammers

BOTTLE BAY BREWING CO., Son of Brad J CAFE COCO, B CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, P.U.S.H. CHINOOK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Echo Elysium THE CORK & TAP, Just Plain Darin J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Robert Vaughn J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Brent Edstrom Trio IRON HORSE (CDA), The Shift MOOSE LOUNGE, Dangerous Type NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Eternal Jones PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Pamela Benton J POST FALLS BREWING COMPANY, Wiebe Jammin’

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs J REVIVAL TEA COMPANY, Scott Ryan

Sunday, 12/10

BIGFOOT PUB & EATERY, Karaoke with DJ Sterling CRAVE, Karaoke with Rich J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Michael Milham HOGFISH, Open Mic

Monday, 12/11 J EICHARDT’S PUB, Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night

Tuesday, 12/12 LITZ’S PUB & EATERY, Shuffle Dawgs

Wednesday, 12/13

BARRISTER WINERY, Stagecoach West THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic GARDEN PARTY, The Social w/KosMos the Afronaut PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Athena Crossingham RED ROOM LOUNGE, The Roomates J TIMBERS ROADHOUSE, Cary Beare Presents

Coming Up ...

J J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Dropkick Murphys, Pennywise, The Scratch, Feb. 18, 7 pm. J J KNITTING FACTORY, Zeds Dead, March 8 & 9, 8 pm. J J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ken Carson, Irontom, May 31, 7 pm.

The new old-fashioned way is listening to Drake on vinyl. Happy holidays from STCU!

stcu.org/holiday DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 53

COMMUNITY O, TANNENBAUM

Each year, the Spokane Symphony Associates puts on its popular raffle fundraiser by showcasing an array of elaborately adorned Christmas trees surrounded by a myriad of prizes. With the trees displayed throughout River Park Square and inside the Historic Davenport Hotel, viewers can buy tickets for a chance to win one — and everything around it — while on a holiday shopping spree or a fun outing in downtown Spokane. Proceeds from the 13-day event support the Spokane Symphony. Raffle tickets are $1 each and can be purchased on-site. Whether you want to try your luck or just admire the beautiful trees, Christmas Tree Elegance is a time-honored holiday tradition. — SUMMER SANDSTROM Christmas Tree Elegance • Through Sun, Dec. 10, times vary • Free; $1 raffle tickets • Historic Davenport Hotel (10 am-9 pm) • 10 S. Post St. • River Park Square (10 am-8 pm) • 808 W. Main Ave. • spokanesymphonyassoc.org

54 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

PERFORMANCE SLEIGHING IT

COMEDY GIRL BOSS

A Drag Queen Christmas • Wed, Dec. 13 at 8 pm • $41-$270 • The Fox Theater • 1001 W. Sprague Ave. • foxtheaterspokane.org

Nikki Glaser • Thu, Dec. 14 at 8 pm • $48-$170 • Spokane Tribe Casino • 14300 US-2, Airway Heights • spokanetribecasino.com

If you’re down to hoot and holler for the holidays, start your engines and prepare for a night of stunning beauty, hijinx and phenomenal performances. A Drag Queen Christmas features 11 RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni like Heidi N Closet, Sasha Colby and Brooke Lynn Hytes plus an extra special guest appearance by singer and choreographer Todrick Hall. See fan favorites like Crystal Methyd and Jimbo the Drag Clown lip sync to remixed holiday songs, try to keep up with Alyssa Edwards’ fast-paced dance routines and be prepared for plenty of surprises as these queens work the stage as you’ve never seen them before. — MADISON PEARSON

Comedian Nikki Glaser is a lesson in pushing boundaries. She doesn’t sit back and stay comfortable, no. She’s loud, proud and not afraid to take over the comedy world. Not only has Glaser hosted her own TV show and podcast, but she’s competed on The Masked Singer and Dancing with the Stars. Talk about multifaceted. To top it all off, she’s a nationally touring stand-up comedian. Oh and she’s not even 40! Glaser’s humor is frank, authentic and honest, making her show relatable to almost anyone who walks through the doors. Though her tour’s name is “The Good Girl Tour,” don’t expect anything too tame out of Glaser — she’s set to surprise you at every turn. — MADISON PEARSON

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PERFORMANCE PAWS FOR APPLAUSE

Animal lovers of all ages won’t want to miss this delightful, fur-filled showcase. Direct from Vegas, Popovich Comedy Pet Theater brings its entirely rescued animal cast north this holiday season for a smile-filled evening that’s likely to leave many audience members wondering: “Can my pet do that?!” Centered on the talents of founder and fifth-generation circus performer Gregory Popovich, the pet theater’s cast includes more than 30 animal performers: cats, dogs, birds, Diamond the Shetland pony and Lucy the pig. While the animals are the true stars, Popovich and the rest of the show’s human crew are nothing to scoff at, boasting impressive skills in juggling, gymnastics, balance and more. — CHEY SCOTT Popovich Comedy Pet Theater • Fri, Dec. 8 at 7 pm • $17-$42 • Bing Crosby Theater • 901 W. Sprague Ave. • bingcrosbytheater.com

COMMUNITY MERRY & BRIGHT

Looking on the bright side, a pandemic-forced change to Manito Park’s annual holiday lights display — moving it from the Gaiser Conservatory to spread across its expansive grounds — has proved to be a lasting success. This year marks the event’s fourth outdoor edition, which once again offers two drive-through-only nights (Dec. 9-10) for visitors who may not want to bundle up to meander around the park and see the illuminated holiday scenes. On those nights when cars aren’t allowed, visitors can wander at their leisure before making a stop at a warming tent set up between the rose and perennial gardens. Live music is also scheduled, and warm beverages and some snacks can be purchased. Admission remains free, but donations to the Friends of Manito are welcome and will help ensure the future of this and other beloved community events at the park. — CHEY SCOTT Manito Park Holiday Lights • Dec. 9-19 from 6:30-9:30 pm • Free (donations accepted) • Manito Park • 1702 S. Grand Blvd. • thefriendsofmanito.org

DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 55

helped me through this fiasco. The lady a couple doors down who called road service for me. The young man walking down the sidewalk who offered help. The man in SUV who got out and helped me move it closer to the curb. The man who called for police help. The officer who let me wait in his vehicle and made some phone calls to my insurance agency to check on progress with the tow truck, and of course the tow truck driver himself. I really appreciate all your help and kindness in a hectic, dangerous, “impossible” situation. I couldn’t have gotten through it without you. A million heartfelt thanks to all. PAY IT FORWARD Emily, Shadle Dollar Tree. Once again, THANK YOU So much!

I SAW YOU RE: TERESA, THIS ONE’S ABOUT YOU I truly hope you are the one I am seeking. What are your initials? DAMN! I WISH I WAS YOUR LOVER If you haven’t heard that song, listen to it, I think you’d like it. Very direct. Is it my fault you didn’t take me seriously? Was I not excited enough? If so, it’s only because half of the time I was making my pilgrimage from the valley to your bed I was trying to hide shame and hurt for coming back for more after you were so careless with my time and feelings. My guard was up. Just know that I was very excited about you.

YOU SAW ME ME Excellent topic. RE: DAMN! I WISH I WAS YOUR LOVER... I’m not sure if you’re who I think, but reach out and come celebrate with me. I’d love to share this monumental moment with you because you are special to me

CHEERS MANY THANKS Yesterday afternoon my truck broke down on busy 29th Avenue on the South Hill. It stalled to a complete stop in the middle of the right lane at an angle, blocking traffic. I had to leave it, with the emergency blinkers on, to get help. I just want to thank the people who patiently

YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE To the young man who dodged traffic at Evergreen and Sprague during rush hour Wednesday, Nov. 29, to help the elderly man get his car out of the intersection. Thank you. I want you to know people like you make a difference and if you think no one notices, I did. Thank you PACKAGE DELIVERERS Cheers and a giant thank you to the folks who put packages they are delivering to my home behind the wall on the porch. That way, boxes cannot be seen from the street, but I can see them from my house. I realize they are trained to put items by the door, but that is clearly visible from the street. I appreciate the extra thoughtfulness of placing the packages where they have less of a chance of being stolen! CHASING DREAMS BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM After many years of reading the Inlander I found this piece to be your finest work, what a great lesson in history. Thank you for such a wonderful article SHOVELED WALKS To the very few people who actually do it, thanks for shoveling your sidewalks! It makes a huge difference, which more people would know if they actually walked anywhere. CITY SNOW RESPONSE Real genius to block major roads off during a snowstorm rather than plow them. Why not just close all the roads every winter and avoid the cost and hassle of plowing?

JEERS YOU’RE NO A.O. SCOTT Jeers to Josh Bell for his review of “Napoleon.” It was a much

better movie than you described. Not only was the movie well done by Ridley Scott, but the CGI was outstanding. Your criticism is unfounded. You didn’t get it right on this one, and you’re not A.O. Scott. JUST DROPPING OFF? Jeers to the local animal control driver who got out of his truck in front of my home, took out a cage from the back, and then opened it and just let a small cat out to fend for himself.

“

JEERS TO THE SPOKANE BUDGET COMMITTEE I’m just now reading an article about the lack of funding for the Trent shelter beginning January 2024. Apparently funding for the Salvation Army to continue running the homeless shelter runs out at the end of this year. No decision from the mayor or City Council has been made to continue funding the shelter. Didn’t the city budget just get passed for 2024? Why wasn’t the funding for the shelter listed in the city budget? Isn’t homelessness one of the critical issues for Spokane? Why, why, why? PAY ATTENTION How hard is it to look at the entire picture before steamrolling through a situation? I’m on the side of the road where I live trying to direct the slush and water into the storm drain (which seems like an engineers job FAILED). Every single car that speeds by insists on driving right through the slush. Wtf? Can you not see me here? I’ve even got on high-visibility yellow gear? Are you that clouded or that self-centered that you can’t first slow down and obey the 25 mph speed limit and second realize that when you drive 40 mph through that slush that I’m going to be drenched by it and freeze to death? Here’s to me hoping you

SOUND OFF 1. Visit Inlander.com/isawyou by 3 pm Monday. 2. Pick a category (I Saw You, You Saw Me, Cheers or Jeers). 3. Provide basic info: your name and email (so we know you’re real). 4. To connect via I Saw You, provide a non-identifying email to be included with your submission — like “petals327@yahoo.com,” not “j.smith@comcast.net.”

56 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

BOSTON MARATHON MORON You running straight toward my car in the middle of the lane with oncoming traffic on icy roads. I was forced to stop (so that you could maintain a seven-minute mile pace surely) and avoid an accident. You were not going to stop! I was a collegiate runner and believe me, I get the obsessive headspace, but therapy is better than running headfirst into oncoming traffic on a Sunday morning. Just a suggestion.

animals make the best pets and don’t come with all the health problems of purebreds. It’s sickening how many animals are killed daily in this country from “throw away” pets, some even purebreds. If you purchase a pet this holiday season, please accept the responsibilities that come with it. Animals can take months to adjust to a new environment and shouldn’t be abandoned, ever. Most importantly ADOPT, don’t shop (from breeders). They will come fixed, vaccinated and ready to love you until the day they die.

To the very few people who actually do it, thanks for shoveling your sidewalks!

INLANDER REPEATED “CHEERS” Jeers to the Inlander for repeating five of the Cheers from the Nov. 23 issue in the Nov. 30 issue, (Making a Free Left, Hope You See This Boo Bear, Parents Halloween Decorations, Teachers, and Good People Out There). We realize that you have a lot of space to fill, but there must be an ample supply of material for this page every week.

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get what you got coming. Praying I’m close enough to see it. PAY ATTENTION

SHOVEL YOUR SIDEWALK, PLEASE Jeers to the many, many people in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood who don’t shovel their sidewalk. What is the point of a sidewalk? To provide a safe walking area off the roadway. So many kids walk to and from school in our neighborhood, and it is shocking how many households don’t clear their walk ways leaving the surface icy, slippery and uneven. Shoveling our walkways, and shoveling for our elderly/ disabled neighbors, is the smallest act of kindness and charity that we can give to our neighborhood. Do it for the dog walkers, the runners, the mail carriers, but most of all DO IT FOR THE KIDS. ILLEGAL LICENSE PLATES Jeers to all the people driving around Spokane with license plates that are expired or absent entirely. Jeers also to law enforcement that doesn’t ticket these same cars. Ironically, it’s the fools who drive these cars illegally that also seem to commit so many other infractions while driving. Ex. weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights, speeding, taking up two spaces while parking, etc. It’s time for Spokane to stop putting up with illegal, immoral and unethical behavior. Demand that something be done about these people driving cars illegally!! Spokane: Near nature. Not even close to perfect! BREEDERS ARE BAD The classifieds in the daily paper are full of animal ads to put money in greedy pockets. People buy from you believing they are getting something special. Better than the cheap, disposable ones at the shelters, right? Wrong! Shelter

”

YOU I consider that you are mistaken. I can defend the position. Write to me in PM. BAD MEDICINE Our health care system is broken, and nowhere is this more obvious than in Spokane. Incompetence, indifference and greed have made getting sick a death sentence. The insurance companies are in business to maximize profits, and that means declining referrals and treatment by default. It’s time for universal health care and an overhaul to this corrupted system. BUSH LEAGUE Gramps... ya might wanna back off braggin’ ‘bout your baby boy bein’ such a “stud”... makin’ it all happen?” The kid has potential, but really, who’s payin’ for the “makin’ it happen” portion of the ride? Your stats are skewed in that game. Your numbers are more than a little... off. Seems she’s the one that wins this tournament... n

THIS WEEK'S ANSWERS I E V E R O R I T D E V O N E M O A S I N M B I R A R I S E M E S S Y M E S S I S O R E T H I G H S U N C S U N N Y S U N N I N E E L N D A I S S U E E Z R A S S P A T E A R U P O R L A N D O E T H I C A L A J A A C T O N E A P T H A R D G I N C A S L I S A F I E R Y F I E R I S A T E B O L I N D I R A G A U D Y G A U D I M E R S I R I E A P S O S A P I T Y M C A N F T S N O H I T

NOTE: I Saw You/Cheers & Jeers is for adults 18 or older. The Inlander reserves the right to edit or reject any posting at any time at its sole discretion and assumes no responsibility for the content.

EVENTS | CALENDAR

BENEFIT CHRISTMAS TREE FARM FUNDRAISER Hutton Settlement’s annual tree farm sale offers a wide selection of pre-cut wild and farmed trees, fresh garland, and wreathes for purchase. Through Dec. 15; Mon-Fri noon-6 pm; Sat-Sun 10 am-6 pm. Hutton Settlement Children’s Home, 9907 E. Wellesley. huttonsettlement.org SANTA EXPRESS With the assistance of an elf, kids shop for everyone on their list from a wide selection of gifts from $1$12. Purchases are tax free and proceeds benefit Vanessa Behan. Through Dec. 22; Mon-Fri from 11 am-7 pm, Sat from 10 am-7 pm, Sun from 11 am-5 pm. Spokane Valley Mall, 14700 E. Indiana Ave. santaexpress.org (509-415-3506)

COMEDY FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY JOKE JOKE JOKE: SAM MILLER A unique comedy experience combining stand-up comedy, live sketches and other mixed-media comedic bits. November’s line up features Sam Miller, Imani Denae, Jared LyonsWolf and host Josiah Carlson. Dec. 7, 7-9 pm. $15. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.com HA!!MARK The Blue Door Players improvise a holiday movie full of twists, turns and romance. Fri, Dec. 8 at 7:30 pm. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 815 W. Garland Ave. bluedootheatre.org (509-747-7045) POPOVICH: COMEDY PET THEATER A family-oriented blend of the unique comedy and circus skills of Gregory Popovich and the talents of his furry co-stars. Dec. 8, 7-9:45 pm. $20-42. The Bing, 901 W. Sprague bingcrosbytheater.com NIKKI GLASER Glaser is an American stand-up comedian, actress, podcaster, radio host, and television host. She was the host of the television series Not Safe with Nikki Glaser. Dec. 14, 8 pm. $48$170. Spokane Tribe Casino, 14300 W SR Highway 2. spokanetribecasino.com

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE ELEGANCE The annual raffle of custom-decorated trees supports the Spokane Symphony and includes trees on display at River Park Square. Through Dec. 10, 10 am-9 pm. Free. Historic Davenport Hotel, 10 S. Post St. spokanesymphonyassoc.org MANITO PARK HOLIDAY LIGHTS Visitors can tour the lights in their car (Dec. 9-10) or by a walking tour through Manito Park (Dec. 11-20). Dec. 9, 6:30-9:30 pm, Dec. 10, 6:30-9:30 pm and Dec. 11-20, 6:30-9:30 pm. Free. Manito Park, 1800 S. Grand Blvd. thefriendsofmanito.org PICTURES WITH KRAMPUS Take a photo with Krampus. Adults, kids and pets are welcome. Sat from 11 am-6 pm through Dec. 23. Free. Petunia & Loomis, 421 W. Riverside Ave. petunialoomis.com REIMAGINE CHRISTMAS WINTER FESTIVAL This holiday festival features a community-wide decoration challenge, cookie decorating, a visit with reindeer, a parade and more. Dec. 9, 12-5 pm. Free. Medical Lake. medicallake.org TASTE OF GINGERBREAD Decorate a pre-constructed gingerbread mansion complete with all the candy, hot cocoa, Santa photo ops and more. Dec. 9, 1-4 pm. $27. The ISAAC Foundation, 606 W. Sharp. theisaacfoundation.configio.com CONSTRUCTION SNEAK PEEK See the Blue Door Theatre’s new space and learn

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about the classes and shows offered. Dec. 12, 4-6 pm. Free. Blue Door Theatre, 815 W. Garland Ave. bluedoortheatre.org PARADE OF LIGHTS A holiday parade promoting suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Dec. 16, 4:30 pm. Free. Horizon Middle School, 3915 S .Pines Rd. paradeoflights.net/home

FILM THE BOY AND THE HERON A young boy named Mahito, yearning for his mother, ventures into a world shared by the living and the dead. There, death comes to an end, and life finds a new beginning. Dec. 8-21; times vary. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127) BING CROSBY HOLIDAY FILM FESTIVAL Screenings of popular Bing Crosby holiday films.The event also features live entertainment from local bands as well as personal home movies and photos from Crosby’s private collection. Dec. 9, 10 am10 pm. $22. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. bingcrosbytheater.com

FOOD & DRINK WEST END WINTER ALE TRAIL Visit each west end downtown Spokane brewery, buy a beer and scan the QR code to be entered to win prizes. Participating breweries include Humble Abode, Whistle Punk, Golden Handle, Brick West, Grain Shed Taproom and Iron Goat. Through Jan. 7. Brick West Brewing Co., 1318 W. First Ave. bit.ly/AleTrail2023 SCANDINAVIAN TREATS WITH RENEE BOLSTAD Chef Renee of Koselig Kitchen teaches participants how to make traditional Scandinavian sweets like Norwegian krumkake, lacy rosettes and Danish abelskiver. Dec. 10, 11 am-1:30 pm. $85. The Kitchen Engine, 621 W. Mallon Ave. thekitchenengine.com (509-328-3335)

MUSIC CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS CHOIR: A LIGHT THROUGH THE DARKNESS Gonzaga Choirs and the Gonzaga Music Department perform new and familiar holiday music from around the world. Dec. 9, 7:30 pm and Dec. 10, 2 pm. $14-$24. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/music HANDEL’S MESSIAH SING-A-LONG A performance of Handel’s Messiah by community members and First Pres choir members. Reservations required for audience and choir members. See website for more. Dec. 9, 3 pm. By donation. First Presbyterian Church of Spokane, 318 S. Cedar St. spokanefpc.org/messiah NORTHWEST BACHFEST: SIBLING REVELRY! BachFest artistic director Zuill Bailey performs with violinist Helen Kim, her brother pianist Michael Kim and Bailey’s sister, Allison Bailey (viola). Dec. 10, 3 pm. $10-$75. Barrister Winery, 1213 W. Railroad Ave. nwbachfest.com

THEATER & DANCE HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE The play follows the strained, sexual relationship between Li’l Bit and her aunt’s husband, Uncle Peck, from her pre-adolescence through her teenage years into college and beyond. Dec. 1-17; Thu-Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm. $25. Stage Left Theater, 108

W. Third Ave. stagelefttheater.org SHE LOVES ME Set in a 1930s European perfumery, shop clerks, Amalia and Georg, more often than not, don’t see eye to eye. Wed-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sun at 2 pm through Dec. 17. $15-$33. Spokane Civic Theatre, 1020 N. Howard St. spokanecivictheatre.com TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD The story of Atticus Finch, a lawyer in 1930s Alabama, as he defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape. Mon-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sat also at 2 pm; Sun at 1 pm and 6:30 pm through Dec. 10. $52-$100. First Interstate Center for the Arts, 334 W. Spokane Falls. firstinterstatecenter.org A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS Hosted by Miz Cracker, the tour includes performances by Alyssa Edwards, Brooke Lynn Hytes host of Canada’s Drag Race, Sasha Colby, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15, Crystal Methyd, Jimbo The Drag Clown and more. Dec. 13, 8 pm. $40.50-$268.50. The Fox Theater, 1001 W. Sprague Ave. foxtheaterspokane.org

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VISUAL ARTS 10TH ANNUAL CUP OF JOY A holiday exhibit of over 150 ceramic cups made by local, regional and national artists. WedFri from 11 am-5 pm through Jan. 13. Free. Trackside Studio, 115 S. Adams St. tracksidestudio.net (509-863-9904) THAT, THROUGH WHICH WE SEE...DIFFERING POINTS OF VIEW A group show consisting of seven local artists including Kay O’Rourke, Alex Biggs, Dan McCann, Larry Ellingson, Wendy Franklund Miller, Roger Ralston and MB, showing paintings, collages, assemblages, boxes and clay. Dec. 1-Jan. 10, Fri-Sat from 11 am-3 pm. Free. Kolva-Sullivan Gallery, 115 S. Adams St. kolva.comcastbiz.net CHRYSALIS GALLERY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY Celebrate one year of the Chrysalis Gallery with special gifts, discounts, refreshments, a raffle and more. Dec. 9, 12-5 pm. Free. Chrysalis Gallery, 911 S. Monroe. theartchrysalis.com BRRRZAAR Over 70 local makers sell their art, crafts and various wares. The event also includes live music, a photobooth and more. Dec. 16, 10 am-8 pm. Free admission. River Park Square, 808 W. Main Ave. terrainspokane.com

WORDS KIWANIS SPEAKER SERIES: JUSTIN WALLACE Justin Wallace speaks about the work of PEER Spokane, a mental health non profit. Dec. 7, 12:30-1 pm. Free. Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St. spokanelibrary.org YOU OUGHTA KNOW A music industryfocused workshop focused on building artist brand identity. Dec. 10, 2-4 pm. Free. Washington Cracker Co. Building, 304 W. Pacific. HaveUHeardLive.com BROKEN MIC Spokane Poetry Slam’s longest-running, weekly open mic reading series. Wednesdays at 6:30 pm; sign-ups at 6 pm. 6:30 pm. Free. Neato Burrito, 827 W. First Ave. bit.ly/2ZAbugD TRAVIS BALDREE: WHAT TO DO WITH A FINISHED NOVEL Bestselling cozyfantasy novelist Travis Baldree discusses what to do with a completed first draft of a novel. Dec. 13, 5:30-6:30 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5390) n

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DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 57

Alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use has fallen in teens since the rise of legalization.

BEHAVIOR

The Kids Are Mostly Sober Despite the proliferation of cannabis, studies show that substance use is down among minors where it’s legal BY WILL MAUPIN

ow has legalization of recreational cannabis impacted substance use or abuse by minors? That’s a question often asked by those trying to determine if cannabis legalization is a good thing or a bad thing. This November, we were shown some evidence to support those who are pro-cannabis legalization. A study from California published last month in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs showed that minors in that state are using alcohol and tobacco at lower rates than before cannabis legalization, and that smoked cannabis use is not up, even while use of edibles is. “Notably, frequency of cannabis use… did not significantly differ between the pre- and post-[legalization] cohorts, except for greater use of edibles, despite potentially greater access to cannabis,” the study’s authors wrote.

58 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

The data from California, which looked at two cohorts of minors — one was surveyed in 2014-15, just before legalization in that state, and the other surveyed in 2019-20, post-legalization in that state — almost mirrors the data that’s been gathered in Washington state. According to data from the statewide Healthy Youth Survey, 19.3% of 10th graders in Washington reported having used cannabis in 2012, the year cannabis was legalized at the ballot box. The most recent Healthy Youth Survey, issued in 2021, nearly a decade into legalization, shows that number at 7.2%. From 2012 to present, only one two-year period has seen an increase in cannabis use among minors according to this study. At 17.2% in the 2016 edition, the number of Washington 10th graders reporting having used cannabis

increased to 17.9% in 2018. Otherwise, it has been on a downward trend since at least 2010. Alcohol use among Washington 10th graders has also fallen from 23.3% in 2012 to 8.4% in 2021. Tobacco use has followed a similar path, from 9.5% of 10th graders in 2012 to just 1.9% in 2021 — for the record, this study does not clarify between tobacco and nicotine products, which puts vape use into something of a gray area. All that said, what is the answer to the original question? Has cannabis use increased or decreased among minors in the wake of legalization? This study from California and the data from Washington show one thing quite clearly: Underage use of legal drugs like cannabis, alcohol and tobacco are down in the years since cannabis legalization. n

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NOTE TO READERS Be aware of the differences in the law between Idaho and Washington. It is illegal to possess, sell or transport cannabis in the State of Idaho. Possessing up to an ounce is a misdemeanor and can get you a year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine; more than three ounces is a felony that can carry a five-year sentence and fine of up to $10,000. Transporting marijuana across state lines, like from Washington into Idaho, is a felony under federal law. 62 INLANDER DECEMBER 7, 2023

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Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Inc., NMLS ID 1025894. FL Mortgage Lender Servicer License MLD1827. ID Mortgage Broker/Lender License MBL-2081025894. WA Consumer Loan Company License CL-1025894. These materials are not from, or approved by HUD or FHA. Licensing information: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org #1101691001

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BUYING Estate Contents / Household Goods See abesdiscount.com or 509-939-9996 1

DOWN 1. Protected against 2. Mr. Scrooge 3. Gut-level 4. Where RNs practice triage 5. Things caught at a beach 6. Like a narrow baseball win 7. Emails anew 8. Online chats, for short 9. Hoity-____

36 44 48

51 56

59 63

10. Rucker of Hootie & the Blowfish 11. Accepts a FedEx delivery, perhaps 12. Hindu protector of the universe 13. BabyGap buy 18. Calendar pages: Abbr.

27 30

tastelessly showy? 67. “Whoso diggeth ___ shall fall therein”: Proverbs 68. Pleasant feeling, to reggae fans 69. Lhasa ____ (Tibetan dogs) 70. Village People classic with a pantomimed chorus 71. Modern digital assets, in brief 72. Like seven Nolan Ryan games

31. Climate change or the economy, e.g. 32. Rip to shreds 34. Facial facility 36. Universal Studios Florida site 38. The “E” of PETA 44. 2020 WNBA MVP Wilson 46. Broadway opening? 47. Early Peruvians 52. Fitting 54. Feature of Greece but not Germany 55. Celebrity chef who is hottempered? 58. Her first word was “Bart” 59. First name in Indian political history 60. Completely fill 62. Neighbor of Arg. and Braz. 63. Seas, to Seurat 64. Famed architect who is

ACROSS 1. “Never Have ____” (Netflix series co-created by Mindy Kaling) 6. “Pics ____ didn’t happen!” 10. “Whip It” rock band 14. African instrument also called a “thumb piano” 15. Dory’s friend, in a Pixar film 16. Z ____ zebra 17. Soccer star in need of a napkin? 19. Ascend 20. Where Michael Jordan played coll. ball 21. Miffed 22. Alternatives to wings 24. Portrait painter Alice 26. Iraqi Kurd with an optimistic outlook? 28. Pound and Cornell 30. Doc intended to protect confidentiality

THIS WEEK ANSWERS O’S N I SAW YOUS

35. ____ standstill 37. City east of Santa Barbara 39. Pres. before FDR 40. Like this type: Abbr. 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 41. Missouri representative who is part of “The Squad” 45 46 in Congress 52 53 54 42. “Yeah, same here” 43. One following statutes to 58 57 the letter 45. Hairy Halloween rental 60 61 62 47. “Allow me ...” 48. Prime time hr. 65 66 49. Comedy’s ____ the Entertainer 69 50. Longtime label for Kenny G 72 51. Leb. neighbor “MESSY MESSI” 53. Swaps 56. “Oliver Twist” villain 23. Chu ____ (Chinese philosopher) 57. Suffix with odd or original 25. Video game protagonist Croft 61. “A Visit From the Goon Squad” author 27. Back of the neck Jennifer 29. It’s about 93 million miles away 65. Request for Alpo, maybe 33. Kissing on a park bench, e.g. 66. Mil. address 34

DECEMBER 7, 2023 INLANDER 63

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