Spokane Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau Blog

The Spokane Movie Marathon

Kevin Dudley — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:35:15 -0700

Cuba Gooding Jr. is in Spokane again shooting The Hit List. That got me thinking. What other movies have been filmed in Spokane? I knew of a handful, but I haven't been able to see all of them. That, I thought, must change.

In what I consider a very bold move, I decided to hold my own Spokane Movie Marathon, during which I would watch three movies that were filmed entirely in Spokane: Benny & Joon, Vision Quest and Mozart & the Whale.

So, in honor of Spokane's own movie makers, here is the recap of the first annual Spokane Movie Marathon:

10:00 a.m. Realize Benny & Joon is checked out from the local Blockbuster. This isn't starting out well. My hopes for completing my mission are severely dented. On top of that, Vision Quest and Mozart & the Whale aren't carried by Blockbuster. I'm sure Hollywood Video has them.

10:10 a.m. Find out Hollywood Video has closed.

10:33 a.m. Strike out at Hastings as well. I am so fired.

10:45 a.m. Shot in the dark. See if all three movies can be found on YouTube. They are! All look legit, though Mozart & the Whale has Spanish subtitles. No problemo.

11:03 a.m. Start Benny & Joon. The opening credits play over scenes of a train running though some mountains. IMDB.com says it was operated in Ione, Washington. I believe it.

11:07 a.m. I'm introduced to Benny's house, which is obviously in Peaceful Valley since the Maple Street Bridge can be seen in the background. I must find that house someday.

11:29 a.m. Benny, Joon and Sam (Johnny Depp) eat in a café where they meet Ruthie, played by a young Julianne Moore. I could be wrong, but it looks like Ferguson's Café on Garland.

11:41 a.m. Johnny Depp's character, Sam, is cooking grilled cheese with an iron. Now I'm getting hungry.

12:00 p.m. The start of a nice five-minute scene in Riverfront Park on the north side of the river looking at the Loof Carrousel. Sam goes into a nice physical comedy routine. Is that how he gets all the ladies?

12:17 p.m. The iconic Mary Lou's Milk Bottle on Garland is seen. Read the last bit of trivia here.

12:18 p.m. Sam and Joon board what looks to be an original STA bus. Retro!

12:21 p.m. Joon is taken away in an ambulance. The side of the ambulance says "Deer Park." It's not a scene in Deer Park.

12:33 p.m. Joon is taken to Emma Sherman Municipal Hospital - as seen from the outside - and I haven't been able to figure out what building they used. It's not a hospital in Spokane, that's for sure. Any ideas?

12:38 p.m. Benny allows Joon to get her own apartment, and the movie ends. One down, two to go. Next up right away is Vision Quest.

********

12:42 p.m. The opening scene looks a lot like the gym at the old Field School at Shadle Park that is currently being demolished. I can't confirm this, though.

12:45 p.m. We are introduced to Louden Swain, played by Matthew Modine, training for his wrestling team by running near Latah Creek, over the Riverfront Park suspension bridge, over Stevens St. as it runs over the river, and through different skywalks downtown.

12:46 p.m. Louden works at the old Ridpath Hotel.

12:52 p.m. The Ferris High School cafeteria is used as the setting when Louden eats lunch at school.

1:03 p.m. Back in that first gym. Still don't know where it is and it's killing me!

1:05 p.m. Is this déjà vu? Louden's dad instructs him to take Carla, played by Linda Fiorentino, to Ferguson's, the same café used in Benny & Joon.

1:14 p.m. Louden gets in a fight at school. It happens outside, and it's obvious the exterior of the school is Rogers High School.

1:20 p.m. In one of the coolest scenes, "Shute" - the wrestler Louden strives to beat - is doing steps at the pre-renovated Albi Stadium with a log on his shoulders. I am so incorporating that into my workout routine.

1:25 p.m. Hello, Madonna. Making her movie debut in Spokane is the controversial queen herself. She's singing in a bar rumored to be on North Division. The name escapes me at the moment. Any ideas out there?

1:30 p.m. Louden's high school, the Thompson Warriors, are in a wrestling match against the Sherman Highlanders. The Highlanders' colors are green and gold. Hmmmmm. Based off of the Shadle Park Highlanders, perhaps? If so, that is a wonderful choice since, you know, Shadle Park is the best high school. It was also my high school, but that doesn't matter.

1:39 p.m. Continuing the Shadle Park theme, the next scene is Louden talking to his coach in an office in the locker room. Now, during my research before this endeavor, Wikipedia said the Shadle locker room was used during filming. I eagerly awaited this moment to see where I once dressed down (too much information?). Sure enough, the old monkey bars in the corner of the locker room tipped me off. Awesome! I've walked in the same place as Matthew Modine!

1:41 p.m. Louden is running across the Monroe Street Bridge as the camera pans out to see more of the area. I can see the City Hall building. Was it City Hall then, or Montgomery Ward? I'm wondering why other filmmakers don't use this setting more often.

1:45 p.m. Bathroom break.

1:48 p.m. Louden looks into a window of a restaurant. Right above his head, in bright letters you clearly see "The Onion." Awesome!

1:53 p.m. Thompson High is wrestling in North Central's gym. Since this movie came out in 1984, I can safely assume it was filmed shortly after the new North Central was built.

2:31 p.m. Louden wrestles Shute in what looks to me to be the gym at Spokane Falls Community College. I won't give away the ending, but I'm sure you can see where this is going.

2:41 p.m. End of movie number two. I need a lunch break. Listen, if baseball gets a seventh inning stretch, I get a lunch break.

********

3:04 p.m. I'm on the back stretch of this journey. Time to begin Mozart & the Whale.

3:05 p.m. This is starting out nice! A great flyover of downtown Spokane from the west. I can see just about everything east of the Monroe Street Bridge and west of Riverfront Park.

3:06 p.m. Josh Hartnett's character, Donald, is introduced. He's a taxi driver - for now - and I can clearly see a Pizza Rita box in his cab. True story: I was a Pizza Rita delivery boy in high school.

3:07 p.m. Donald has Asperger's Syndrome. He begins naming off real intersections in Spokane - Wall and 4th, Riverside and Washington. Pretty cool.

3:08 p.m. Donald crashes his taxi cab. He is soon fired. More important, though, the crash happened on the corner of Riverside and Post, right in front of the Spokane Regional Business Center. That's where I work!

3:12 p.m. Donald's Asperger's group meets outside the INB Performing Arts Center (or Opera House, for you traditionalists) and feeds the ducks. I've done that before.

3:19 p.m. We see Donald's apartment for the first time. Based on my observations, it's located above the Bank of America on the corner of Broadway and Monroe.

3:26 p.m. Donald takes Isabelle, played by Radha Mitchell, to Cat Tales on a date. I'm bummed because I haven't even thought of this date idea yet!

3:27 p.m. Donald and Isabelle ride the escalator at the STA Plaza.

3:31 p.m. Isabelle dresses up as Mozart for Halloween and is supposed to meet Donald at River Park Square. A great shot of the atrium and the escalators.

3:34 p.m. Isabelle finally finds Donald at his apartment. Donald is in a whale costume. They walk around downtown, giving me one of the best lines I've ever heard in a movie: "What are you laughing at toots? At least my boyfriend's a vegetarian!"

3:55 p.m. I've been staring at this screen all day. My eyes are nearly bloodshot. Must. Fight. Through.

3:58 p.m. Bella's Hair Salon is the setting for the second time.

4:28 p.m. Donald and Isabelle have difficulties. Donald is instructed not to call Isabelle, but he has trouble fighting the urge. To deal with this, he takes his office phone and promptly throws it off the Lincoln Street Bridge. Wise choice.

4:35 p.m. My day ends happily ever after because this marathon is finished!

4:36 p.m. Time to get some feeling back into my backside.

******

After surviving the long journey, I realized something: I drive by and walk around many of the settings used in each film. I used to never think about who stood before me at that spot, but now I can say Johnny Depp, Matthew Modine and Josh Hartnett once stood where I stood, once ran where I ran, and once walked through the same locker room - the one where I flexed my muscles in front of a mirror.

It's amazing when you're watching the movies and you realize Spokane is a great place to film.

For more on each movie: Benny & Joon, Vision Quest, Mozart & the Whale

Boogity, Boogity, Boogity Let's Go Racing Boys!

Kevin Dudley — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:11:05 -0700

We are approaching the one day every man in America has circled on his calendar. That one day full of love, laughter, maybe some tears......and Pennzoil.

Valentine's Day? Heck no. I'm talking Daytona 500, which just happens to be on February 14th this year. (Sorry honey!) For all of you who can't make the 2,800-mile road trip, there's no need to fret. Spokane's own Fastkart Speedway will let you put the pedal to the metal as if you were Jimmie Johnson (or Danica Patrick) on the Daytona racetrack.

Have you ever been on the same track as Antonio Banderas? How about Tom Petty? Take to the track at Fastkart - you'll burn rubber on the same track those two stars raced on when they were in Spokane. With a number of hairpin turns and a real checkered flag, you'll feel like you're racing in the Grand Prix.

I felt like Spokane's own Chad Little winning the Goody's 300 at Daytona as I drove past the checkered flag waving above me. And so what if the go-karts can only reach 35 miles per hour? For the size of track at Fastkart, that's an insanely high speed.

If you have kids who aren't big enough to see over the steering wheel in a normal car, they can pretend to be a racecar driver in the big arcade while you're on the real track passing your buddy and yelling, "Eat my dust!" You'd make Tom Sneva proud.

Fastkart is one of only three tracks of its kind in America (the other two are in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas). And maybe - just maybe - you'll enjoy the go-karts so much you'll want one of your own. Great, because Fastkart sells those as well. Hey, it beats anything you'd try and create yourself with a motor from your old lawnmower.

Make sure you pick your race times wisely - owner and operator Joe Miller said Fastkart is known to have long lines on Saturdays. And don't be afraid of accidentally bumping into another driver on the track. These go-karts are made to stay on their wheels - this isn't Monster Jam. Thank goodness!

Seasons of Love

Molly Enkema — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:07:53 -0700

I really don't get all the negativity surrounding Valentine's Day. What's so sad about chocolate, flowers, hugs, good food, movies, wine, smooching and cuddling? I could keep going but I'll spare you.

I recognize that Valentine's Day assumes a kind of pressure; pressure to get creative, to spend a lot of money, to become very intense and even pressure to not spend the evening alone. But what's so bad about any of those? It's only one day.

As much as I would love to be able to relieve all of those pressures, I can't, I'm only one person. But I can give you the ultimate Valentine's Day guide for how to spend the day/evening/night in Spokane. I'll even let you take credit for the ideas.

For the "beginners": to keep things a little more light-hearted I suggest an activity. Ice Skate at the Ice Palace, take a snowmobile tour, snow shoe or give rock climbing a try. Follow this up with a fun meal at the Shogun where they prepare the food right in front of you or switch things up a bit and have breakfast for dinner at Wall Street Diner or Frank's Diner.

For those of you looking for a little more fire I think cooking a meal together suits you better. I love going to Saunders Cheese Market and Chocolate Apothecary to load up on items to make fondue. Main Market and Huckleberry's both have lots of very unique and fun items to create a special meal with. And, at Huckleberry's you can make your own six-pack with an incredible selection of micro-brews from all over the world. After you eat, see a show. The Spokane Symphony is having a very bubbly Valentine's Day Special or if you prefer a movie, The Magic Lantern always plays interesting independent films. I love their smaller, more intimate theatres...very romantic.

Now, if you think you've mastered the art of creative dates, you really haven't. Dine in the private dining room in Masselow's at Northern Quest Resort & Casino. Make a scavenger hunt of "sweet treats" from our local specialty shops such as Halletts, Spokandy, Boehm's and Godiva. For a more relaxed experience, try a spa service at Spa Paradiso or Current. Of course you'll want to save the best for last, right? This list of the "Top 14 Places to Kiss in Spokane" will definitely make this Valentine's Day memorable. I remember all 14 locations and it isn't even Valentine's Day yet.

There you have it, some of the most fun, romantic and unique ways to celebrate your significant other (or significant hopeful). No more excuses for a lame Valentine's Day. I pretty much just planned yours for the next five years. You're welcome.

Average Joes to Ski Pros

Molly Enkema — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 11:13:35 -0700

I have been snowboarding for almost ten years now, but I've always wanted to learn to ski. January happens to be national "Learn A Snow Sport Month," and while I typically try not to be a follower, I figured this was as good excuse as any.

This past weekend three friends and I headed to Mt. Spokane and enrolled in ski lessons. I have to be honest, the idea of lessons at a ski mountain as a twenty-something didn't really sound like a good time. Surely...I'm too old for that! Thankfully we got hooked up with a sweet instructor, Ron.

Once we had all our gear we started out in the small, roped-off area at the base of the bunny-hill. Yes, the area that looks like an elementary school playground. Ron ran through the basics; the pie-stop, bent-knee stance, and the art of holding your arms out like you're "hugging your grandma."We got it all down and quickly graduated to learning turns from the top of the bunny hill after only thirty minutes. That was a proud moment.

Ron was so good at showing us how to ski and watching for small adjustments we might make to be better skiers. These lessons were not at all what I was expecting. We had a lot of freedom to try things and ski at our own speed. An hour in and we were already making big kid runs. Well...still easy runs but on big kid lifts.

If I would have known that one lesson would make me a legit skier, I would have taken lessons years ago. I was incredibly impressed with Mt. Spokane's ski school. I only felt like an idiot once, when I ate it coming off the chair lift. Ron told us "getting on the chairlift is optional, getting off is mandatory." I was only following directions.

We all pooped-out around 3pm that day. I guess our thighs weren't quite prepared for the workout. We left feeling exhausted but also very proud of our new skiing ability. I am so glad I finally decided to learn to ski and even more glad, and humbled, that I took a lesson. It's well worth it! I can officially check skiing off my bucket list. Maybe I'll take up snowmobiling next January.

Travel Back in Time at The Ski Museum of Spokane

Kevin Dudley — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:36:03 -0700

Many Spokane natives remember Lou Lou's - the ski shop on the outskirts of downtown. I sure do. During the winter, it's all I heard about on the radio as a kid. Lou Lou's closed in 2002, but Loulou Kneubuhler has opened up The Ski Museum of Spokane in the same building, and let me tell you...it's quite the time machine.

What do I mean by time machine? Well, for one, right when you walk in the door you'll walk along what I like to call, "The Evolution of Skis." This display of skis includes many that were used before The Great Depression. Loulou told me everything I needed to know about the different and evolving designs of each ski (and I needed to know A LOT). I also noticed a semi-evolution of bindings on each ski. Let's just say may we never go back to the vintage technology! Some would smash your ankle in no time.

But the coolest, most interesting ski Loulou has isn't even on the wall when you walk in. Why would that be? Well, this ski is so special it has its own place on a different wall. This ski is so old, it looks like a wood board on an old deck - the kind of ski used between 1870 and 1880 near Glacier National Park, which is where this particular ski was found. It even has a leather binding to hold your boot in. It has to be one of the coolest ski artifacts - and it's right here in Spokane! I can't even imagine skiing down a snowy mountain on a piece of wood!

But vintage skis and bindings aren't the only items on display. I asked Loulou to show me around. He justifiably boasted about every piece of equipment and collector's item in there. Let's see...there was the poster signed by Picabo Street, the signed picture of Warren Miller, the picture of Pope John Paul II holding a pair of skis, Lou's wall of signatures dating back to who knows when, and much more. Loulou revels in giving you all his knowledge like he's giving you his own special present, so pack your questions and ask away!

Speaking of questions, who remembers Magic Mountain? That, for those who don't, was the indoor ski trainer that was quite popular at LouLou's. Magic Mountain didn't implode - it's still there. Though it needs a little dusting. Lou hopes to reopen the training mountain someday. When he does, I want to be the first one on it.

Loulou also hopes to expand his museum and its old newspaper clippings-covered walls. And really, who in Spokane wouldn't want a great big ski museum? You could watch it grow, and dream of how someday, your skis might line up along The Evolution of Skis.

So help Loulou out and visit The Ski Museum of Spokane at 428 E. Pacific Ave. It is open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The best part? Admission is free!

A Tour on the Mount

Kevin Dudley — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 09:14:37 -0700

Mount St. Michael's....ever heard of it? I hadn't either until about three years ago. In my defense I had seen their huge brick building which is on a bluff that overlooks Northeast Spokane.

Finally, yesterday, some friends and I took a tour of the almost 100-year-old building. Here is our view from different perspectives.

Good Golly: To be honest, I had no idea what to expect when I showed up. The only thing I really knew about St. Michael's were the fabulous Singing Nuns. I was surprised. I had no idea that Mount St. Michael's is still a functioning school and parish. We got an impromptu concert by the 5th and 6th graders, got a glimpse of what life in the convent was like and were told more history about the property than I could have ever imagined.

K. Diddy: Growing up going to a Catholic Church, I've come to know what to expect from stained glass windows and cool designs. But Mount St. Michael's was different. My jaw nearly dropped after Mrs. Anne Marie Netzel, our tour guide, told us it took 2.5 million bricks to build the building (this, after my guess of 13,000 was deemed waaaay off). And this was in the early 1900's! On a hill! That's determination.

The sisters were all nice and very down to Earth. I pictured my mom in full habit - stay with me here - because when she was in grade school at her Catholic school, she wanted to be a nun. Of course, the fact that I'm writing this shows how that dream turned out.

Good Golly: You know, I was intrigued by the architecture and the building. Almost everything is original with the exception of a new elevator and some chapel décor.

Multiple times I felt as if I were in Europe. I was reminded of the many historic monasteries, schools, and churches I visited in France. It was kind of refreshing to see people in our community embracing such rich tradition and living without many of the modern amenities we all, including myself, are used to.

Ok, the most interesting fact I learned...Mount St. Michael's only turns the heat on a couple times a day because it's so expensive due to the way their Boiler heat system was built. How expensive you might ask? How would you like to pay a $15,000 monthly heat bill? No, that isn't a misprint.

K. Diddy: The most interesting tidbit I learned during my visit was that Father Cataldo is buried at the cemetery there. Father Cataldo is a very important person in Spokane's history, and he is literally responsible for the foundation at Mount St. Michael's. Being a history buff, this moved me to try and gain more information (which means I looked him up on Wikipedia).

Mount St. Michael's has arguably the best view of Spokane - both the city and countryside. I was so impressed with the welcome the Sister's presented us with. If you're wondering, you too would be welcomed. The staff, Sisters and students love to share their mission and history with anyone willing to listen. Trust me, it's worth the short drive...just be careful in the snow, it wouldn't be difficult to get stuck.

Passport to...The Garland District

Molly Enkema — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:34:28 -0700

One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is explore the various quaint neighborhoods we have in Spokane. Most recently I stumbled upon the Garland District which is made up of small, locally owned restaurants, coffee shops and a handful of entertainment venues.

For two solid blocks you'll be reminded that businesses can run the old fashioned way. We're talking some serious word-of-mouth marketing here.

I'll go ahead and share my insight, which is nice because I typically like to keep things like this a secret. I'm going to go the unconventional route and recommend starting with dessert. Mary Lou's Milk Bottle is a classic soda fountain where you should probably try one of their milk shakes. These babies are made with hand scooped, hard ice cream, not some milky sludge pumped from a machine! I promise you can't miss the place. It's the giant milk bottle...the only one on the street...or really the whole area for that matter.

The quick run-down on things to do in this neighborhood goes like this: The Ruby Slipper has tons of fun shoes, yes, even for men. A couple doors down is an incredible used bookstore called "Book Trader." I actually spent a couple hours sifting through the walls and piles of books, and you probably will too. Then there is the Blue Door Theatre which puts on improv shows. And my all time favorite is the Garland Theatre. It's a traditional movie theater, except it won't cost you a day's work. Movies are just $3.50 and popcorn has unlimited refills. Isn't that refreshing? Thank you.

I know I keep saying "my favorite," I guess I mean my favorites. The Rocket Bakery is a super cool coffee shop. Their coffee is good, the people are nice and they make really good cookies and cinnamon rolls and scones. But the capper is their famous German chocolate cake, and who doesn't love it when the barista knows your name and drink of choice!

Ok, I think I've saved a really good one for last, Fergusons Café. It's got that classic diner feel with a menu that has everything from burgers to macadamia nut salmon. Being that I love breakfast, I'm a fan of the French toast sandwich. I'm not kidding when I say this place is always packed. I don't know if it's because of the food, the prices or the fact that it's has been family owned and run for years. I swear you'll leave with at least three new friends.

There are other little stores nestled in-between the places I've mentioned. A local bar, some music stores and an art gallery all of which are worth visiting too. The Garland neighborhood is funky and it's fun. It's authentic and it's definitely Spokane.

Square's Santa is the Real Deal

Jeanna Hofmeister, CDME, CTA — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:31:11 -0700

So what if I'm over 50? (Although not by much.) I still believe in Santa and I'll tell you why. There's a certain Santa in Spokane and I'm pretty sure he's the real deal. He's chubby for real. He's actually got white hair and this beautiful silver white beard. And he's really made little kids and even some of their parents remember the true spirit of the season.

How do I know that? A few years back, my granddaughter Cheraya went to see Santa. (She's been getting her picture with this very Santa for all of her eight years now.) That's where it all began.

Right after her Santa visit, she and her mom (my daughter) were headed off to see The Polar Express. After the movie, they hopped on an STA bus and headed for home. Well... apparently in the weeks pre-Christmas, Santa gives his reindeer a rest. Who knew? So there he was riding in the front seat of that bus! "Santa!" Cheraya exclaimed... then thinking a minute asked "You ride the bus?" (You've got to love an eco-conscious Santa.)

Recognizing my granddaughter from earlier in the evening, Santa invited her to sit on his lap during their short ride home. On the way she talked non-stop, telling him every detail of The Polar Express.

Santa's stop came first. He hugged her goodbye and slid a little jingle bell into her hand! Then he stepped to the front of the bus... turned around and uttered a jolly "Ho Ho Ho... Merry Christmas!" He gave the famous wink and Santa wave and disappeared into the snowy night. For a precious few seconds, there was silence. The driver didn't even drive away. Everyone knew they'd just met the real Santa.

I'm sorry for those of you who didn't have that moment of magic on an STA bus at midnight, but you still have your chance. The real deal Santa offers hugs, photos and the genuine spirit of Christmas every day at River Park Square.

It was no surprise to hear that when my 10 month old grandson saw him last week, he reached out his chubby little arms with a trusting smile, completely secure in the arms of Santa Claus.

Maybe he's just the wrapper on a present that represents kindness, generosity and love. Whatever it is, I believe in Santa and I don't plan to stop in this lifetime.

Hitting the Ice

Kevin Dudley — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:02:42 -0700

Of all the appalling sights to see - an empty cookie jar, a wet, shivering puppy, melted ice cream - dusty ice skates, for me, has to be the worst. That was the sight I laid my eyes on last week....my pair of skates, lying unloved, on the floor at home. It was time to redeem myself.

Being a solutions-oriented guy, I put on the layers, started my truck, set the heater on "Arizona" and headed off to the Ice Palace at Riverfront Park - the outdoor rink that has been recognized for being one of the best in the nation.

I arrived just as the decorative lights at the park went on. I'm cool with cold weather because I used to have 6:00 a.m. hockey practice at an outdoor rink in January. While many attendees raced for the hot chocolate, I put on my gloves, my hat and - most importantly - my two pairs of socks, dug my feet into my beloved skates and hit the ice.

I was impressed with the condition of the entire sheet of ice. I've played on outdoor rinks that literally had slush in one corner and rivets in another. The Ice Palace is well-maintained, very secure for everyone and the atmosphere was wonderful - Christmas lights above, music all around and skaters enjoying themselves.

As I stepped onto the ice, I took a glance across the rink. 95 percent of the skaters were holding onto something (or someone) to stay on their feet. There were masses of kids skating for the first time. The smiles on their nearly frozen faces told me they were enjoying themselves and who cares if their parents made them wear a funky helmet?

And who knows? Some of these kids may be skating champions someday, like the ones Spokane will see from Jan. 14 to Jan. 24 when the U.S. Figure Skating Championships return to Spokane. I have no doubt those skaters - like Evan Lysacek and dance pair Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto - started out on rinks just like the one at Riverfront Park, wearing odd-looking helmets, holding their parents' hands and stumbling around on the ice.

All skaters have to start out somewhere. Why don't you start out at the Ice Palace at Spokane's Riverfront Park?

Breakfast In the Neighborhood

Molly Enkema — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:21:27 -0700

Most mornings, breakfast is what gets me out of bed. French toast, oatmeal, scones, you name, it I like it. So of course I am always on the lookout for a good breakfast joint. You know, a place that serves a whole bunch of tasty morning treats, has distinct character and brews a cup of coffee that will keep me out of bed.

I am happy to report I have added McGlade's Bistro & Wine Bar to my list of breakfast "hot spots." This North Side favorite has long been known for their fresh produce and pies, but recently joined the ranks along-side other local Spokane breakfast eateries, and for that I am thankful.

The "Ranchero Omelet" combines two of my favorite foods, eggs and salsa. Once I have downed it, lucky me, because I still have hash browns and toast to devour. For those of you with a similar sized appetite to mine, the breakfast buffet is an excellent choice. If you are thinking "whoa, my stomach is the size of a pea," don't you worry. The "1 Egg Your Way" is a bit smaller and equally satisfying.

If, for some reason you're not a breakfast person, bummer for you...but McGlade's offers a full lunch and dinner menu as well as many items to-go, including their famous homemade pies. I grew up on these pies, especially the huckleberry, and I turned out pretty good, right? So if that is not reason enough to try them, I don't know what is. Still not amused? Maybe the weekly beer and wine tasting events will captivate your taste buds more.

The next time you need a reason to get out of bed and stay out of bed, head North to McGlade's and stuff your tummy. Once you have overindulged, if that's even possible, grab your friends, kids, spouse, really anyone you enjoy being with and go check out what's going on at GreenBluff, you're already nine-tenths of the way there.

Local Brews, Corn Pasta and a Chill Atmosphere

Joe Johnson, CTA — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:41:50 -0700

Let's get one thing straight. I don't consider myself a foodie. I love food and I like trying new food. But you will never find me analyzing what I just ate down to the most minute detail? I think it ruins food. I do however consider myself a bar-ie or a beer-ie. I may have just made both those words up. What do they mean exactly? That I enjoy tasting new beers, no matter what the type and that I love experiencing new bars, their food and their atmosphere. What I'm trying to say is that if you're looking for an overrated, overtechincal description of a bar, its beer and its food, this blog isn't for you. But if you're looking for a first-hand account from someone just like you, then you're at the right spot.

It is the bar-ie and beer-ie in me that brought me to the Two-Seven Public House on Spokane's South Hill. After moving from Spokane's north side, I began searching in earnest for a new home pub. My search started and ended at the Two-Seven. Let me tell you why:

It is the lesser known brother, or sister (whichever you prefer) of The Elk. Translation - they're owned by the same people. For those of you who don't know, The Elk, nestled in the friendly confines of Browne's Addition, is the BEST bar in Spokane. You may not agree with me, but this is my blog . . . deal with it! To put it simply, the Two-Seven is the quiet sibling who gets little recognition, while The Elk is the outgoing sibling who gets all the girls. I might not be helping myself out by writing this, but I like that the Two-Seven is not crazy busy, I like that not everyone knows about it and I like that its kind of hard to find.
It's chill. Everything about the Two-Seven says, "chill." From the menu and music to the servers and seating. No one seems rushed, no one seems too busy for you and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. You can't put a price on a relaxing experience. Especially when it includes chillin' on a sweet patio with a good brew in your hand and a delicious meal on your plate.
It's a local bar that carries local beer, wine and spirits. The Two-Seven always has a tap handle reserved for a Northern Lights Brewing Co. beer, a Golden Hill's Brewing Co. beer or if you're lucky, both! Not to mention they serve Townshend Cellar wine and Dry Fly Distilling vodka, gin and if available, whiskey.
The corn pasta. The Two-Seven is unique in that it doesn't offer french fries as a side. I know what you're thinking, "What kind of bar doesn't offer french fries?!" Believe me, you'll be fine. The corn pasta more than makes up for the lack of fried potatoes.
The servers are great! No painted on smiles, no fake conversations and no rushing. They're genuine, relaxed and they know their stuff. You're just as likely to have a conversation about your weekend plans as you are to discuss something on the menu. I dig that! For the best server ask for Shannon!

As you can tell, I have a bar-crush on the Two-Seven. And it's a crush that I don't see ending anytime soon. So if you're looking to find your next love . . . er, I mean bar, look no further than the Two-Seven.

Eating Raw In Spokane

Joe Johnson, CTA — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:24:37 -0700

I think sushi is an acquired taste, kind of like squid, only much easier to acquire. The weird thing about my sushi transformation is that I've always liked fish, it's just the thought of raw fish made me queasy . . . or maybe it was the texture? It really doesn't matter which one it was, the fact remains that I avoided sushi for the first 22 years of my life because of it.

This is where you tell me how much of a fool I am, and also where I agree with you.

But I have since seen the sushi light and would now consider myself a fan. Not a "hardcore eat raw slabs of fish" fan, but an "I love eating sushi rolls" fan. Baby steps are key. So naturally I've been venturing out and exploring Spokane's sushi scene. I know what you're thinking, "Spokane has a sushi scene?" In fact it does. And for a land locked city, you'd be surprised at the quality of sushi that is being rolled out.

So far my favorite is Raw Sushi & Island Grill. First and foremost the sushi is bomb. I obviously can't recommend something for everyone reading this, but my favorites are the Spicy Tuna roll ($5.95), the Firecracker roll ($9.95) and the Crunchy roll ($6.25), with the Firecracker taking top honors. For those of you wondering that's tuna, scallions and shrimp. All equally delicious! All good sized rolls! And don't worry, for those of you not into sushi, there's a whole other menu just for you! But Raw isn't just about the food. It's the entertainment. Most any night of the week you can count on being entertained and having your sushi too with live, local music, a great selection of DJ's and Karaoke every Monday and Thursday. If you're lucky, you may even get to hear Raw owner, Noel Macapagal, belt out some of his favorite songs.

There you have it. The next time you're craving sushi or looking to be entertained, don't just sit there, take my advice and make your way to Raw.

SpokaneMan tested. SpokaneMan approved.

Bennidito?s v. David?s ? The Great Spokane Pizza Debate

Joe Johnson, CTA — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:40:28 -0700

Here's a random fact that you may or may not want to use to impress the opposite sex: There are nearly 70,000 pizzerias in the United States. To be completely honest, I thought that number might be bigger. Of course my view of that number is skewed by the inordinate amount of pizza places that call Spokane home. Spokane might as well be known as the land of mozzarella and marinara! So how does one sort through all the pretenders, false advertisers and fakers to find the greatest pizza in Spokane? My suggestion, which you obviously want since you're reading my blog, is to say sayonara to all the national chains. These companies sold their soul for a buck a long time ago and it shows in their pizza. Secondly, take a look at the remaining pizzerias. If they're not tossing their dough, consider them a no-go. Fresh dough is a must and when they toss it before they make it, well . . . it's just cool! Finally, the cool factor. A place can make the best pizza but if it's a shady joint they won't be getting my business. These are my tried and true pizzeria picking criteria. So who does that leave standing? Survey says . . . wait, what's this? A tie? How could it be?! After all that scrutiny and comparison there are still two standing? Don't be too surprised, these two local joints serve up delicious pizza with an atmosphere to match.

Bennidito's Pizza:
What's my favorite thing about Bennedito's? Beer buddies! These tasty dough balls, cooked to perfection, brushed with butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese make life worth living. Seriously, they're that good! I also like the buckets of PBR. No, unfortunately it isn't an actual bucket full of PBR. It's actually a bucket filled with five chilled bottles of PBR. Drinking out of a bucket would be much more fun! Oh, and I like the pizza too. Huge slices, copius amounts of cheese and whatever ingredients tickle your fancy, pair with the perfect amount of grease creating a foldable slice of pizza that is second to none. And the deck . . . epic! There's nothing better than a summer night on Bennidito's deck with a great slice of pizza, cold PBR and great friends.

David's Pizza:
What's my favorite thing about David's? The fire truck! The David's Pizza Response Team rolls around in a tricked out truck providing delicious catered relief wherever it's needed. You've got to see this thing! I also like their open kitchen. You get a first hand view of them hand tossing your crust and preparing your pizza. I feel like it helps me become one with the pie! And that pie I'm speaking of is sooo good, with all the ingredients being freshly prepared throughout the day. David's just says no to pre-cut vegetables! Oh, and I like the owner too. In addition to being crazy about his pizza, he's one of the raddest guys I know and a pretty sick cyclist to boot. I love eating at David's for three reasons. 1. Amazing pizza. 2. Awesome service (better than Bennidito's, sorry!) 3. Sweet décor (the cycling jerseys just do it for me).

Hopefully you're not looking for me to tell you which one to eat at because I just couldn't do it! You know what that means right? You'll just have to try them both! Cry me a river!

Hands On Science In Spokane

Joe Johnson, CTA — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:18:10 -0700

I never used to like science. In fact, you could say my feelings toward it bordered on hate for the majority of my life. The science I knew was boring. It involved big books, with small print, boring multiple choice tests and a skosh of lab time thrown in to prevent a coup de tat.

Last week I got the chance to head up to the Mobius Lab: Hands on Science Center at NorthTown Mall. Finally, someone got science right! I realize that a 24-year-old college graduate (that's me) probably isn't their target market, but they had me hook, line and sinker from the time I walked in and they gave me my "PassPort to Discovery." Hanging by a lanyard around my neck, my passport has a chip in it that is recognized by the computers at each exhibit in the lab so that when I walk up to a station the computer greets me by name. And don't worry; it's a nice computer voice, not a creepy computer voice. These same computers keep track of your progress as you work through the stations. Then, when you get home, you can enter your key (number found on your passport) at http://mymobius.org/ to see the information you've saved, check top scores and learn even more about the exhibits.

Speaking of exhibits, where the heck were these when I was sleeping my way through science class?! Like the Geology Lab. Using a low-frequency vibrating base plate, this exhibit causes sand to move and shift like it does in the dessert. You can even throw in random items and see how the sand cycles them through and moves them around. Much more interesting than that poorly made movie "Sands of Time" that I watched in sixth grade science, which by the way sounds more like a soap opera. But my favorite lab by far was the Magnetics Lab. Created by a guy out of Hayden Lake, it teaches you about magnetism, its sources, properties and practical applications while (get this) . . . launching objects with an electromagnetic catapult! How sweet is that! I wish I had more time to talk about the Motion Lab, the Energy Lab, the Chaos Lab, the Audio Lab, the touch-screen computers and the fun, interesting factoids. But take my word for it - they're awesome! And for those of you who decide not to go, thinking that books or Bill Nye movies will do the trick, science can't even describe how wrong you are.

Here's what you need to know:

-Mobius Lab IS NOT permanent. It will only be open until the end of September.

-Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10am - 9pm, Sunday 10am - 6pm

-Location: NorthTown Mall, ground level, near Barnes & Noble

-Who's it for? The Web site says ages 8-108, and they didn't lie. There's something new for every age to learn!

-Cost: FREE!

-Purpose: Mobius Lab was developed to be a place that made science fun with hands-on learning (mission accomplished!). It also serves as a sneak peek at the future Mobius Science Center, scheduled to open in 2012. Located on the north side of the Spokane River, the 56,000 sq. ft. science center will be one of the premier science exhibits in the Pacific Northwest and will feature a digital theater, labs, classrooms, café and store in addition to its many exhibits.

At this time I want to say thank you to Mobius Lab. Thank you for being untraditional. Thank you for blowing away the negative stereotypes associated with science. And most importantly, thank you for making science fun again.

Great music. Awesome venues. In Spokane?

Joe Johnson, CTA — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:44:23 -0700

I love music, but I'm definitely not a musician. In fact, I'm probably as far from a musician as you can get. The bulk of my musical experience comes from a stint with the recorder during third grade. But despite my lack of formal musical training I'm still a huge fan of music - especially local/independent music. There's something about the music that's produced by those trying like crazy to make it big that is organic, creative, honest and full of emotion - just the way music should be.

So what local artist has caught my ear lately? He's known as Mark Ward, which just so happens to be his name. I must admit, the fist time I went to watch Mark I only went to impress a girl. But wouldn't you know it, she had great taste in music, I liked what I heard and I've now seen Mark in concert a total of three times. Here is where I'd love to be able to write my own review of Mark, but I'll let my attendance at his concerts speak for itself. The review; I'll leave that to the expert:

"When you're one person with a guitar, you better have something compelling to separate yourself from all your like-minded compatriots. Ward definitely does - a magnetic, spine-tinglingly beautiful voice." -Jeff Echert, The Inlander

You know you want to listen now! And if by chance the artist isn't enough for you, make sure to check out the venues! Now feast your eyes on my three "must see" Spokane music venues:

Empyrean Coffee House: This awesome little bohemian joint, tucked into an old brick building in downtown Spokane, is the first place I saw Mark Ward play. With performances ranging from acoustic to alternative with poetry slams and readings thrown in, the Empyrean is the only joint in town with something going down virtually every night. Tip: Be ready for the unexpected; anything doubles as an instrument at the Empyrean. I once witnessed a girl playing a saw and a guy twirling beer-bong tubing.

Rocket Market: If the Rocket Market were a recipe, this natural foods sanctuary on Spokane's South Hill would call for two parts hippie and one part yuppie. Making the final product a . . . yippee or huppie? But, I digress. During the summer months this outdoor venue is my favorite in Spokane, offering live music Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The best part? You can grab a microbrew or bottle of wine before heading outside to enjoy the music. Tip: For all you lovers out there, a concert at Rocket Market is a great date idea - keep that in mind.

Zola: Located in the historic Longbotham Building (circa 1909) in downtown Spokane, this eclectic venue salvaged the majority of its décor from demolition sites around Spokane. That includes the original tilt-a-whirl bucket booths that double as seats and the bicycle rims and license plates that double as liquor dollies and wall coverings. Describing it as unique doesn't do it justice! Offering live music Tuesday through Saturday nights, I've experienced everything from jazz and swing to rock and acoustic at Zola. Tip: Hit up Zola's happy hour, one of the best in Spokane, nightly from 4-6pm.

Is that music I hear in Spokane? It sure is! And now not only do you know that there's good music, you know exactly where to find it! But don't keep it to yourself. Who's your favorite local artist? And where do you like to go to catch some tunes?