Holiday Events for Kids Starting This Weekend!

The snow is coming and Bing Crosby is all over the radio, which means...the holidays have officially arrived. Since many of us are scrambling to come up with ways to make this year's holiday season a memorable one for our loved ones, we thought we'd help out by providing you with a list of some of the kids and youth events and activities we're most excited about...

Theater:

Babes in Toyland
Presented by Theater Arts for Children
        Dates:  December 7-16
        Times:  Fridays 7pm
                     Saturdays 4pm and 7pm
                     Sundays 2pm
        Cost: $10 adults, $8 seniors, students, and military
                 *Advance purchasing through TicketsWest is recommended.

The Nutcracker
Presented by the State Street Ballet and the Spokane Symphony Orchestra
        Location: Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox
        Dates:  December 6-9
        Times: Thursday-Friday 7:30-9:30pm
                    Saturday 2-4pm, 7:30-9:30pm
                    Sunday 2-4pm
        Cost: $16-65 depending on seating. See the above link for more details.

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Presented by Interplayers 
        Dates:  Now through December 30
        Times: Wednesday-Saturday 7:30pm
                    2pm showings on select Saturdays and Sundays
        Cost: $28 adults, $22 seniors and military, $15 students

An Evening of Theatrical Music at the Bing

 On Friday, November 30, at 7:30 p.m., Eastern Washington University's music faculty will present "An Evening of Theatrical Music at the Bing Crosby Theater.

Produced by pianist and impresario Kendall Feeney, this event will feature fourteen members of the EWU music faculty. Performances will include: tango music; songs from Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods," a musical based on the Brother's Grimm fairy tales; and a fully narrated performance of Stravinsky's A Soldier's Tale, the story of a fiddle-playing soldier who makes a deal with the devil. Elvis plans to make an appearance during Michael Daugherty's over the top piece, Dead Elvis, and EWU English Professor Anthony Flinn will join vocal faculty members, Randel Wagner and Steven Mortier, in the narration of A Soldier's Tale.

That's quite a line-up. Don't miss out!

What: An Evening of Theatrical Music

Where: The Bing Crosby Theater

When: November 30, 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $15 general admission, $8 for students. 

Tickets are available through TicketsWest.

David Shields Reading This Week!

The Inland Northwest Center for Writers and Get Lit! Programs, in cooperation with Gonzaga University, are pleased to announce to upcoming author events. Visiting author David Shields will be conducting a Q&A session and a reading on Friday, November 30th.

1-2pm
Author Q&A with David Shields
Foley Teleconference Room (Library)
Gonzaga University

6pm
David Shields Reading
Wolfe Auditorium--Jepson Center
Gonzaga University


David Shields is the author of thirteen books, including Reality Hunger: A Manifesto (2010) and the NY Times bestseller The Thing About Life Is That One Day You'll Be Dead (2008). His most recent publication is Fakes (2012), a collection of short fiction in the form of itineraries, instruction manuals, forwarded emails, and other seemingly mundane artifacts, written by today's best writers and compiled and edited by David Shields and Matthew Vollmer.



Reviews for Reality Hunger: A Manifesto...

"David Shield's radical intellectual manifesto, Reality Hunger, is a rousing call to arms for all artists to reject the laws governing appropriation, obliterate the boundaries between fiction and nonfiction, and give rise to a new modern form." --Vanity Fair

"This is the most provocative, brain re-wiring book of 2010. It's a book that feels at least five years ahead of its time and teaches you how to read it as you go." --Alex Pappademas, GQ

"...I don't think it would be too strong to say that Shield's book will be a sort of bible for the next generation of culture-makers." --David Griffith, Bookslut

The Inlander Short-Fiction Contest 2012

 Do you like The Inlander? Would you like it even better if you were in it?

The Inlander is still accepting submissions for its 2012 Short-Fiction Contest. Submissions should be stories fewer than 2,000 words and in some way related to this year's theme, "The End." Winning entries will be published in their December 20th issue.

The submission deadline is November 22nd, 11:59 pm.
Email submissions to Luke Baumgarten at luke@inlander.com

So, get writing! And if you need inspiration, here's some of what the internet as to say about "The End..."

1. NASA's take on the end of the world


2. Remember the 90s? When the end of the world would just be one giant jelly-bean boom?

3. The Simpsons' Escalator to Nowhere, anyone?

4. And of course...

Happy writing!

Mortal Geography: Alexandra Teague at EWU

 
The Inland Northwest Center for Writers and Get Lit! Programs are proud to present the first event in the 2012-2013 EWU Visiting Writer series, featuring poet Alexandra Teague. 

Tomorrow evening, on Friday, October 26th, Teague will be reading from her collection Mortal Geography at the EWU Riverpoint Campus, in the Phase 1 Auditorium, at 7pm.  

If Spokane's been getting too frosty for you, a reading is the perfect place to thaw. And remember, nothing inspires brilliant poetry like bleak weather.


The Heartland

In the beginning was snow, fluffy and colored
like cabbage. Pale green leaves of light
folded in toward the ground.

We who were from nowhere
changed zip codes often, moving
into uncertain weather. The sameness of change

never ceased to astound us. Blocks away,
the American Ice Company’s red bricks
melted to white. It was possible to believe

a whole city’s snow came from inside.
Sidewalks turned into tightropes. The sky waited.
We all had something we’d rather stayed buried.

We all had something staked on the thaw.
One morning, the mailbox backed up
with forwards, which overflowed

down the steps. We’d been located by names
that chapped our lips when we said them.
Ice hung from the gutters of the art museum

like sculptures. People paid to stay outside.
Shovels made soft sweeps, brushes
across the unalterable, as men poured salt

to our doorstep, a great evaporated sea.
The papers tallied up deaths
and reported freezing was variable.

In Houston, people start dying
when the temperature drops below thirty,
while in Anchorage, death starts

at minus five. We had become
the midpoint of a mortal geography.


From Alexandra Teague's Mortal Geography 

 

Pacific Walkers: A New Collection from Nance Van Wickel

Anticipation is building for Nance Van Winckel's forthcoming poetry collection, Pacific Walkers (2013).

The collection takes its name from the brand of shoes worn by a John Doe, one in a series of unidentified bodies found during Van Winckel's time as a reporter. The poems give voice to the nameless and forgotten--from the anonymous deceased to the portraits in discarded photo albums.

 

Nance Van Winckel is the author of five collections of poetry and three collections of short stories. She is a two-time National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship recipient. You can find more information about her here.

Frank Zafiro: A New Novel and an Appearance at INWG

Spokane's own king of crime fiction, Frank Zafiro, has just released a new novel, Lovely, Dark, and Deep. The summary from his website says:

A city councilman is dead of an apparent suicide. Ex-cop Stefan Kopriva finds himself drawn into the case, serving an unlikely client. Once involved, he discovers that things are not as they seem.

Kopriva is quickly embroiled in dirty city politics. Along the way, he encounters pimps, prostitutes, gangsters, contractors, and the police as he tries to get to the bottom of what happened, and why. That is something no one wants, so Kopriva must risk his own freedom and his very life to find the answers, no matter how deep the corruption goes.

The novel is currently available as a Kindle edition, and a paperback version is due out soon.

If you'd like to learn more about Frank Zafiro's work and his experiences with writing and publishing, he'll be a guest speaker at the Inland Northwest Writers Guild meeting at Auntie's Bookstore tomorrow, Tuesday, October 17th, at 6:30pm!

You can learn more about him at www.frankzafiro.com

Upcoming Alexandra Teague Poetry Readings

Alexandra Teague, author of Mortal Geography (2010), will be featured at two upcoming readings!

The Beacon Hill Reading Series

Thursday, October 25^th

The Hagan Foundation Center at SCC

6:30pm

EWU’s Visiting Writers Series

Friday, October 26^th

Riverpoint Campus, Phase 1 Auditorium

7:00pm

 

Alexandra Teague is a former Stegner Fellow and NEA Fellow whose poetry has appeared in Best New Poets 2008 and Best American Poetry 2009, as well as many notable journals, including The Missouri Review, The Iowa Review, and Prairie Schooner.

Her debut collection, Mortal Geography, won both the 2009 Lexi Rudnitsky Prize and the 2010 California Book Award. Drawing from sources as diverse as travelogue, ESL, and Dungeons and Dragons, Mortal Geography keeps readers on their toes with its balancing act of chaos and structure. Poems about the madness of public transportation appear in sonnet form while poems about love take on unexpected forms, as in this mindbender, "Two Drafts Written After a Fight":

I.

Do I love you: yes or no?
The question: Is love a figure of speech?

I do - sometimes. Everyone wonders about our love; still,
there can be no doubt I have been true (almost always).

Happily remembering the start of our romance; it seemed
so promising ...

And is love continual happiness or not?
Is not what matters?

I cannot tell you who I want to spend my life with.
Enough about our love.


II.

Do I love you? Yes or no - the question is, love,
a figure of speech. I do.

(Sometimes everyone wonders.)
About our love, still, there can be no doubt.

I have been true, almost always happily
remembering the start of our romance;

it seemed so promising, and is. Love,
continual happiness or not is not what matters.

I cannot tell you, who I want to spend my life with,
enough about our love.



What else is there to say? This is not a poet to miss.

Spokane is Reading with Chris Cleave

This Friday, October 12th, will be the 11th Annual Spokane is Reading. If you've never been before, Spokane is Reading is a series of events organized by the Spokane Public Library, the Spokane Country Library District, and Auntie's Bookstore. Every year, they bring an influential author to Spokane to discuss one of his or her books with the community.

This year's visiting author is Chris Cleave, who will discuss his international bestseller Little Bee at two free presentations:

The Garland Theater - 1pm
924 W Garland Ave

The Lincoln Center, Monroe Ballroom - 7pm

Not familiar with the novel? The publisher has this to say...

"We don't want to tell you too much about this book. It is a truly special story and we don't want to spoil it. Nevertheless, you need to know something, so we will just say this: It is extremely funny, but the African beach scene is horrific. The story starts there, but the book doesn't. And it's what happens afterward that is most important. Once you have read it, you'll want to tell everyone about it. When you do, please don't tell them what happens either. The magic is in how it unfolds."

Chris Cleave is the author of Incendiary (2005), which inspired the film of the same name. His most recent novel is Gold (2012).

For more information about Chris Cleave, visit his website: chriscleave.com

For more about Spokane is Reading, visit: spokaneisreading.org/2012

See Sherman Alexie This Friday!

If you haven’t yet, head over to Auntie’s Bookstore and get your tickets for this Friday’s Sherman Alexie reading! He’ll be introducing his new collection, Blasphemy: New and Selected Stories, at North Central High School.

 Booklist says, "He is mischievously and mordantly funny, scathingly forthright, deeply and universally compassionate, and wholly magnetizing. This is a must-have collection."

When: Friday, October 5. 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:45.
Where: North Central High School, 1600 N. Howard St., Spokane, WA.

Tickets available through Auntie’s.

"Cannibalistic Undertones" and Other Not-So-Common Threats

Get out your Sherman Alexie novels and Maurice Sendak illustrations. It's time to celebrate Banned Books Week.

Banned Books Week started in 1982, the same year that the Supreme Court ruled that “local school boards may not remove books from school library shelves simply because they dislike the ideas contained in those books.” This landmark decision made banning books much more difficult, but it didn’t stop people from trying. 

In 2011, there were a reported 326 book challenges, or attempts to "remove or restrict materials based upon the objections of a person or group." Even The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie, has faced a challenge or two. When an individual or group complains about a book to a local library, the library decides whether or not to remove the material, and since libraries are dedicated to the right to read, challenges rarely result in actual bans; but over the years, the attempts have only gotten more…interesting.

A Light in the Attic: You might remember this Shel Silverstein collection for its fun rhymes and odd illustrations, but do you remember the parts about anarchy and barbarism?  In 1985, it was challenged because it "encourages children to break dishes so they won't have to dry them." Then in 1986 it was challenged again because it "glorified Satan, suicide and cannibalism, and also encouraged children to be disobedient."

 The Diary of Anne Frank: Not only did this text shed light on one of the most horrific and significant moments in human history, it did so in such a way that young readers could gain a better understanding of their own humanity. Unfortunately, it was also “a real downer,” which is why it was challenged in 1985 by the Alabama State Textbook Committee.

Where’s Waldo?: Did anyone ever figure out where he was? Surely a few people did. Others--actually hordes of others--gave up the hunt for the man in the striped hat when they noticed the pea-sized topless woman lying face down on a beach towel. And where did they go? Straight to their local libraries, making this one of the most challenged books of the 90s.  

If you've got a favorite book that's been banned or challenged somewhere, you should join in the Banned Books Week Virtual Read-Out. Check it out, here.

Sources: bannedbooksweek.org, ala.org, and howstuffworks.com

Bedtime Stories

You may be familiar with the annual Bedtime Stories, the Humanities Washington gala that promotes storytelling, critical thinking and conversation. During the event, Northwest authors take over the stage to fundraise for Humanities Washington's efforts, sharing works that spin off of the gala's main theme, as well as engaging each other and the audience in noteworthy conversation. This year, the Bedtime Stories theme is Red Eye and will be taking place in Seattle, Washington on Friday, October 12. The author line-up includes Kathleen Flenniken, Charles Johnson, Kevin O'Brien, Amy Wheeler, and Nancy Pearl will be running the mike as the event's emcee.

For those literary lovers who would be interested in going, but feel that Seattle is a couple too many hours across the way, we have good news: for the first time, Humanities Washington will be holding Bedtime Stories here in Spokane, Washington as well. The opening Spokane roster features local writers like Kim Barnes, Jim Lynch, Shann Ray, and Nance Van Winckel. Our very own Jess Walter, author of Beautiful Ruins, will take over the stage as the evening's host.

In addition to the brain-storming and thought-provoking conversation, Bedtime Stories will be offering food for hungry writers, and various types of wine to wet those parched throats. Spokane's Bedtime Stories will be held on Friday, September 28 at 6:15pm in Skyline Ballroom, Red Lion Hotel at the Park. Individual tickets will be going on sale this summer. For more information on either event about remaining tickets, event sponsorship, or purchasing a table, reach Kari Dasher at 206.682.1770 x103, or email her kari@humanities.org.

Unity in the Community

Set in Riverfront Park, this diversity festival is the largest multicultural celebration to happen in the Inland Empire. Over 6,000 people attended last year's Unity festival, and this year is expected to draw an even bigger crowd!

Participate in this year's theme, "Where's Waldo Scavenger Hunt", organized by members of Youth 'N Action. Do your good deed for the day and donate school supplies to the Back-to-School Supply Give-Away. Check out the Cultural Village that brings the heart and soul of countries like South Africa, Turkey, Persia, Scandinavia, China, and many more, to Spokane. Or, if you just feel like kickin' it beneath the sun, bring a funky beanbag or lawnchair and immerse yourself in the entertainment. In the past, Unity has had Chinese dancers, Hawaiian singers, Gospel choirs, theatre performances, and belly dancing.

Spokane has a lot to offer by way of its history and the diverse population that calls this city home. Join us August 18, from 10am to 4pm to watch the performances, travel the booths, and see the wonders of Spokane. If you have questions, visit www.nwunity.org/ or email Unity at the Community at info@nwunity.org. Volunteers are always welcome!

Uncommon Gifts

Spokane's Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC), founded in 1916, has gone above and beyond when it comes to its duties of collecting historical artifacts and documents. Inspiring appreciation of all things historical, cultural, and downright fascinating, the MAC once again has delighted visitors with its new exhibit, Uncommon Gifts.

Showcasing seven internationally known artists with ties to the Inland Northwest, this exhibit proudly displays the Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance corporate collection. Artists include Jacob Lawrence, Fay Jones, Morris Graves, Barbara Thomas, and George Tsutakawa. Visitors can expect to see almost 500 works created on paper, 130 canvas and panel pieces, and more than 180 three-dimensional objects of glass, ceramic, bronze, and mixed media persuasion.

The Uncommon Gifts exhibit runs from June 25 to August 25. While you're there, check out the MAC's previously mentioned Dig It! The Secrets of Soil exhibit, or the Two to Tango: Artist and Viewer, Lasting Heritage. The MAC is a cultural showplace that strives to bring the past and present together with community events, rare pieces, and local artists. For more questions, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture website, or call 509.456.3931.

Learn to Paint While You Drink

What if you had the chance to savor the most delectable wines, while contemplating some of history's most famous classical artwork? Let me do you one better. What if you had the chance to hold the brush in your own hand, painting those renowned paintings while sipping local brands of Merlot?

Local artist group Van Gogh and Merlot are experts at holding these sorts of events. Their mission statement promises to help "individuals participate, share, and express themselves artistically"...all while holding a glass of vino in your hand and flourishing that little pinky. The idea was to help people understand that art is not reserved for those few blessed with true talent. Art is about expression, and Van Gogh and Merlot know just how to help you get those thoughts onto the canvas.

Classes are held in groups of 5-25 students, depending on day, price, and theme (some classes include live nude models, so parents beware). All artistic materials are provided, and drinks and snacks are typically up to the client (in other words, bring your own beer, my friends). Venues include Spokane's Luxe Coffee House, complete with a wine and beer bar; the Pasadena Ridge down in Spokane Valley; and pretty much anywhere with room for a canvas stand or two!

So! If you've a hankerin' for a drink, and you're feeling mighty da Vinci-ish, visit the Van Gogh and Merlot website, or take a look at the Facebook page to grab some inspiration.

Spamalot

Ever seen Monty Python and the Holy Grail? You know, the comedy classic that retells the legend of King Arthur and his search of the Holy Grail. The one that displays no shortage of nonsensical spoofs, preposterous fart jokes, and zany insults. The one that, despite its absurd appraisal of 5th-century history, has acquired a fantastic cluster of fans.

The Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre has taken it upon themselves to bring this entertaining film to a whole new level. Spamalot, as they've dubbed their musical based on the comedic masterpiece, will be playing July 26-29 and August 2-5. The show isn't exactly appropriate for the young'uns, but the Coeur d'Alene Theatre assures that children 13 and older should be alright.

Because of the popularity, tickets aren't cheap: $40 for adults, $36 for seniors, and $26 for appropriately-aged children. But we've been promised it's worth it. If you need more proof, check out the Coeur d'Alene Summer Theatre here!

14 is the Magic Number

What do cherries and renaissance garb have in common? The month of July, apparently, because that's when all the good stuff seems to be happening. Go crazy at Green Bluff's Cherry Picker's Trot and Pit Spit, the annual cherry festival that spans two weekends and carries a bunch of extra surprises. Music and food vendors will be accompanying the sweet fruit adventures, and take a look at all the extra cherry recipes that will be floating around that day, too. July 19 will even be offering burgers and hot dogs, and if you're still up for it, a 5K run through the beautiful orchards (walkers are welcome, too).

And for you lovers of gypsies and jousting, don't forget to check out the Northwest Renaissance Festival in Nine Mile Falls. This festival runs for a whole month (weekends only) from June 25 to July 22 and sets you in England, 1522 AD, in the Village of Pleasance. If you dig battle armor and pipe music and cute little jesters with bells on their shoes, then this is the place for you. Authentic food, music, and goods will be available, so I expect to see you all there. For more information, check out their website or keep an eye out for ads all throughout Spokane.

Mobius Science Center

"Energy creates. Energy propels. Energy transforms. E=MSC."

Mobius Science Center (MSC), where free exploration of all things electronic, scientific, and wondrous is not only allowed, but encouraged. Expected to open for business on August 3, 2012, the official grand opening of this up-and-coming science museum is scheduled to happen sometime in early September. That's when the throngs of brooding high school students, science enthusiasts, and childlike parents will converge on Mobius. Why, you ask?

Uh, because of the Robotic Surgery station, of course. Complete with medical highlights, a one-a-kind interface, and role-play opportunities, this automaton creation will give even R2-D2 a run for his money. Not impressed yet? How about practicin' your jump shot at the Jump Time station. Show off your game, photograph that soon-to-be-famous action pose, and check out the scoreboard.

MSC will be featuring 75 various types of interactive exhibits, and more than 150 activity stations. Visitors of all ages can be sure that something will captivate their minds, exercise problem-solving skills, and create everlasting memories that will keep them coming back for more.

Located at 811 West Main Avenue in Spokane, Washington (right across from the Riverfront Mall), you can call 509.443.5669 for more information on Mobius Science Center, Mobius Kids Children's Museum, or Mobius Spokane in general. Sign up for memberships, summer camps, outreach programs, or learn about the scholarships offered.

Dig It!: The Secrets of Soil

Picture it: you as a young child, digging holes in your backyard, sifting through grass and dirt and worms to achieve whatever goal your creative imagination conjured up. In those tiny piles of dirt that you built, it probably never occurred to your young mind that there were more living creatures in any one pile of dirt than there are humans on this earth. From the obvious critters like slugs and snails, to the tiny microbes like heterotrophs and autotrophs, there's lots of goodies down in that soil.

Don't get freaked out yet... All those living organisms, and more, are thoroughly explained at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC). The MAC, as it's so lovingly called, has an amazing interactive exhibit created by the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History. 4,000 square feet display the intricate systems of the soil, and how this overlooked ecosystem supports nearly every life form on earth. In addition, viewers of the exhibit will have the chance to learn about how soil corresponds with nutrition, global food production, climate change, and even animation for multi-media (who knew?).

The MAC will be showing off this exhibit until September 22, so dig deep and get dirty! For more information visit the MAC personally, or call 509.456.3931. Take a virtual tour, or find out about the Teen Interpreters helping out for the summer!

4th of July Events

I can already see it: couples and families spread around the flowing waters at Riverfront Park. The delicious aroma of grilled meat, pastries, and and other edibles wafting its way enticingly past my nose. The sound of barking dogs, children's laughter, and park rides as they tilt and whirl with their trusting riders. And later on, of course, the sky will light up with the annual Larry H. Miller Fireworks Display in bedazzling colors that thunder through the air.

This is what the annual 4th of July Celebration at Riverfront Park can offer you. Wednesday, July 4 brings in the Spokane Jazz Orchestra beginning at 11am. The Numerica Credit Union Free Children's Meadow is a place for the kiddies to run crazy. Combine all of that with greasy, delicious foods, more great music, arts and crafts, park rides, and other family events, and you can be sure that Spokane will be celebrating the holiday in style. The aforementioned fireworks will light up around 10:30pm, so make sure to get some great seats. Admission and viewing of the fireworks are free, but for a couple of extra bucks ($8 to be exact), you can reserve a special place.

For more information on rides, events, or reserving a spot, ring up 509.625.6601, or visit the Riverfront Park official webpage.

The Spokane Books Blog

If only there existed a place for local Spokanites and Chenians to go for their Inland Northwest tips, answers, and advice for all things literary. Cue in the Spokane Books Blog, created for, determined to, and focused on providing a resource that zones in on books, bookstores, and of course, cafés, that are prime candidates for our love of literature.

This charming, informative blog is run by Eric Iannelli, a longtime blogger who also runs a personal page, Diderot's Diary. It seemed to him that, despite the obvious culture that Spokane offered to its inhabitants, there was a serious lack of information about the cozy little bookstores or no-frills coffee shops with big squishy chairs to sink into for a good read. Up steps Iannelli, providing, for perhaps the first time, a place where book lovers of the Inland Northwest could gather for those precious necessities.

Iannelli's blog carries more than a list of books to check out, or links to local discount bookstores; you can be sure to gather personal opinions about the various blog posts. There's no lack of sarcasm and honesty, but as much as he gives, he welcomes it and more in return. Check it out, read up on it, and let us know what you think!

The Port Townsend Writers' Conference

Some people are new to writing, discovering for the first time the trance that writing down one's thoughts brings. Others have been writing for years, filling journals, publishing books, and running blogs in an effort to share themselves with the world. Whatever your level of skill, the Port Townsend Writers' Conference works to provide the connections and resources you need to help you grow as a writer.

Running from July 8-22 at the Fort Worden State Park, this writing conference has been an annual event since 1974, catering to writers and aspiring writers in the Pacific Northwest. Every year since its founding has seen more and more people attend, lured by the workshops, creative freewrites, vibrant readings, and knowledgeable lectures. Various writers and poets make up the 2012 conference faculty, offering their experience and advice on how to keep your thoughts moving and the pages filled.

Mornings will see conference goers engaged in workshops with faculty members assigned to their groups; afternoons workshops are taught by both faculty members and visiting writers that focus on specific topics regarding writing. In the evenings, two faculty members will present their lectures at the Joseph F. Wheeler Theater, available to all participants.

Entrance into the Port Townsend Writers' Conference does cost a fee, ranging from $50-$695, depending on how much you register for. However, scholarships and tuition assistance are available.

Success has followed this conference for 39 years, watching writers disperse with new knowledge. Whether you're here to create new work and hone existing skills, or relax and lose yourself in a writing retreat, the experience you'll gather here is unparalleled to any other. For more information, check out the Port Townsend Writers' Conference informational webpage.

Sharma Shields - Author Reading

Auntie's Bookstore is excited to welcome back Sharma Shields into their midst. A former staff member of Auntie's, Shields will be reading from her collection of stories entitled Favorite Monster. Filled with tales of mythical creatures and downright nightmares, the surprising end result reveals that sometimes, the greatest monsters of all are just plain human. Cyclops and werewolves, reality and fantasy, sweet dreams and darkness - all are intertwined within the pages of this delightful book.

Sharma Shields' writing has appeared in many places, such as the Kenyon Review, the Iowa Review, Fugue, and the Sonora Review. She is the recipient of several awards, including being the winner of the Autumn House Fiction Contest, which led to the publication of Favorite Monster. Shields has a BA in English Literature from the University of Washington, and a MFA from the University of Montana. She currently lives in Spokane, WA with her husband, their son, and their beautiful newborn daughter.

Shields will be taking time from from her busy schedule to hang out at Auntie's, visiting the staff and customers, and reading from Favorite Monster. Don't miss her! Come listen on Wednesday, June 27th, at 7:00pm.

Storytime for Kids

We've all heard that rumor that exposing your child to classical music boosts their brains cells and makes them smarter. We've come across articles in parenting manuals that swear by reading to your children, because it strengthens the relationship and prepares them for academic excellence.

Well, the Spokane County Library District certainly has it covered when it comes to introducing kids to exciting stories and vibrant pictures. Every week each branch of the Spokane county library holds Storytime, a twenty minute period dedicated to stories, songs, and mini lessons. This time is spent helping to stimulate a passion for learning and literature. Weekly Storytime is separated into three age groups:

1. Baby Lapsit for 0-18 months - This one-on-one time between baby and parent focuses on nursery rhymes, songs, and stories to introduce the baby to rhythm and music. It works to foster an early love of the written language.
2. Toddler Storytime for ages 1 1/2 to 3 years - Designed for toddlers, this story-time uses picture books, puppets, and finger-play to engage children in arts and culture.
3. Preschool Play Learn for ages 3-5 years - This activity goes for an hour instead of the usual 20 minutes. It brings stories, songs, and finger-play into the mix to introduce concepts of math, science, art, and literature.

All of these weekly programs focus on helping children to develop cognitively, becoming aware of their educational surroundings through fun activities that promote bonding with parents. To find out what times each library branch holds their Storytime, click the here, or visit the Spokane County Library District website directly at http://www.scld.org/. 

Kelly Milner Halls - Author Reading

Auntie's Bookstore is presenting a Spokane bestselling author Thursday, June 21, at 7:00pm. Children's author Kelly Milner Halls jokes that she has always been the weird kid--she asked too many questions, didn't like to play with dolls, and couldn't stop talking to neighbors. Now, her childhood oddities have paid off; she holds dozens of honors and awards, has 19 books published, and is even the proud owner of a four-foot rock iguana aptly named Gigantor.

On the 21st of June, she'll be speaking about her latest book, Hatchlings: Life-Size Baby Dinosaurs. This bold and visually detailing book has its pages filled with life-size baby dinosaurs, giving kids an up close and personal view about these age-old reptiles. The colors are bright, the pictures are vivid, and the memories of reading this story to your children will last for a lifetime. So bring your kids and meet up with Kelly Milner Halls at Auntie's to explore the beauty of these dinosaurs.

The Blue Door Theatre

"Serving Spokane's Improv Needs Since 1996." This is the logo situated beneath the online banner of The Blue Door Theatre (BDT), the Inland Northwest's Premier Improv Company. Laying low in the heart of the Garland district, this tiny, intimate theater is bursting with ad lib talent and comical performances, all at the hands of local volunteers. Originally called Unexpected Productions: Spokane, it was founded in 1996 by Mark Robbins, who rented a variety of spaces to put on his shows every Friday night. Four years later, the company dropped into a more permanent residence in downtown Spokane and changed its name, so called because of the blue door entrance. 2002 saw another move happen, this time to its current location in the Garland district.

The BDT specializes in both long- and short-form improvisation. In addition to the evening productions, the company hosts adult and youth/teen improv classes that "introduce, emphasize, and reinforce the skills" that improvisation requires. Some students even transition to volunteers, helping around the theater, working admissions, and even performing on stage for both the general admission productions, and the Safari shows (fast-paced, wild, and not always suitable for all ages). Running $8 for general admission, and $7 for student, military, senior, and Safari shows, the shows are typically an hour long, perfect enough to grab a bite to eat after.

This month's special feature is called "Artsy Pants"; the audience draws little, unrelated caricatures before the show begins, and the players act them out, performing as historians sent to interpret the drawings. These shows happen every Friday night. If you plan on going, be sure to call ahead and schedule a reservation. Let the hilarity ensue!

Jess Walter - Author Reading

Most of our readers know him and his work fairly well, but we never miss an opportunity to hear Jess Walter read. Not only was he was a headlining author of EWU's  Get Lit! Festival in April, reading with Colson Whitehead as well as participating in the Comedy as Commentary  panel, but he's been a longtime supporter of the literary arts in Spokane. He's the author of five novels and one nonfiction book, including The Zero (2006), The Financial Lives of Poets (2009), and most recently, Beautiful Ruins (2012). He is the winner of the Edgar Allen Poe award, a National Book Award Finalist, and has been published in a variety of magazines, literary journals, and newspapers. His books have been sold in fifteen different countries, translated into thirteen languages, and his success won't stop with his latest publication- he already has another book on deck, a collection of short stories to be released in March 2013.

Beautiful Ruins, the novel, begins on the sun-drenched shores of an Italian coastline, featuring a relationship between a simple innkeeper and a dying American actress. Their romance, whose origins lay in 1962 Italy, are rekindled 50 years later and half a world away on American soil. History, dreams, and memories arise in the novel, which he'll read from at Auntie's Bookstore on June 12 at 7 p.m.You won't want to miss it!

The 8th Annual Elkfest

In 1995, three friends came together with a single purpose in mind: dish out some mouth-watering grub, pair it with an array of sweet microbrews, and serve it in an atmosphere complete with warm smiles and friendly faces. This concept brought about the opening of Moon Time in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Soon after, John Grollmus, Brad Fosseen, and Jeff Meagher opened up three other restaurants: The Elk right here in Spokane, The Two Seven over on the South Hill, and The Porch in Hayden Lake, Idaho.

"Great music. Good beer. Corn pasta." That's the mantra so modestly placed at the center of this year's Elkfest poster, promoting Spokane's 8th annual Elkfest, the creative baby of The Elk restaurant. This true indie music festival caters to those looking to make some sweet summer memories and party on the streets of downtown Spokane. Friday, June 8th at 5 pm kicks off the start of the good times, beginning with the BBBBandits and some Northwest rock and roll. The line-up continues until 9 pm, but no worries... It continues Saturday, June 9th at 1pm, and again Sunday, June 10th at 1pm. Show up to get a taste of artists like My Goodness (a two man garage-blues band with tones akin to the Black Keys); Real Life Rockaz (cue the easy beats of reggaeton, hip-hop soul, and jazz ); and Whiskey Dick Mountain (for those throngs of hipsters and aging punks).

Whatever your tune of choice, Elkfest is sure to have something for you to rock out to. Join the festivities on the streets of Browne's Addition, and get a taste of history along with the good chow and great music. Here's a toast to seein' you there!

ArtFest 2012

It's back, ladies and gents! The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC)'s 27th annual ArtFest began at noon on Friday, June 1, and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 3. This three-day summer event features over 160 art booths and artists, delicious food, awesome music, and loads of creative fun. A Make-It-Art tent is set-up to engage children in some hands-on activities, and for those adults that harbor a taste for fine wine, you can relax at the beer and wine garden.

Coeur d'Alene Park will be boasting all the craftiness this year--about two blocks from the MAC in Spokane's historical Browne's Addition. There's no cost to attend this festival, so there's no reason not show up, grab a bite to eat, and take a glance or two at the different artwork displayed throughout the grounds.

For more information contact 509.456.3931, email artfest@northwestmuseum.org, or www.northwestmuseum.org.

First Friday Features

From gallery shows to historical tours, you might be surprised at the cultural opportunities that Spokane has to offer. In the midst of things, people tend to forget that this city has history tucked between the brick buildings and paved streets. That's where First Friday comes in: the first Friday of every month holds many events that take you out and about the Spokane scene. This past First Friday, for instance, May 4, saw the Vino! Wine Shop provide decadent wine selections for a wine tasting party, and Hotel Ruby's Sapphire Lounge provided some good ol' rockabilly blues from folk rock country singer Jack Mattingly.

What specials does Spokane have in store for us the first Friday of this month, June 1? The Spokane Convention Center will be holding a Fire on the Runway fashion show, complete with models and firefighters. Or check out the Spokane Aerial Performance Arts Performance Troupe as they fly through a "Cirque du Spokane" show at the Savory Restaurant | Lounge. To top it off, Savory brings these high-flying performers back the first Friday of every month!

So if the dreary weather is making you think there's nothing exciting in store for you, think again. Head downtown and take advantage of the many First Friday events and specials.

Sherry Jones

"A lively, entertaining tableau that evokes the complexities of court life in thirteenth-century Provence, France, and England as seen through the eyes of four remarkable women." ~Mitchell James Kaplan, author of By Fire, By Water


"Four Sisters, All Queens draws the reader into the intrigue and drama of the courts of 13th-century Europe, delightfully evoking the rich details and vivid personalities of a fascinating era. A feast for fans of historical fiction!" ~Gillian Bagwell, author of The Darling Strumpet and The September Queen


These are only a few of the many quotes praising Sherry Jones' recent novel, Four Sisters, All Queens. The book chronicles the tale of four sisters in 13th-century Provence who became the queens of France, England, Germany, and Italy. She is also publishing an e-book novella, White Heart, about the famous French "White Queen" Blanche of Castille. When she's not working on her next publication, Sherry Jones travels the world, speaking and writing about free speech, censorship, Islam, the middle ages, and women's rights. Sherry enjoys empowering girls and women with tales of extraordinary women that have lived throughout history. Curious for more? Check out her website at authorsherryjones.com. Today, Thursday, May 31, she'll be reading at Auntie's Bookstore at 7 p.m. Don't miss it!

Gregory Spatz

Professor, musician and award-winning author Gregory Spatz will discuss his forthcoming book, Inukshuk, on May 25^th at Auntie’s Bookstore. The upcoming historical novel chronicles the trials of an adolescent boy who moves to a Northern Canadian town with his father after the sudden disappearance of his mother. 

Janet Fitch, author of the book White Oleander calls Spatz’s literary style “…clean and sparkling as a new fall of snow,” and author Doug Dorst says,  “Inukshuk is a feat of empathy and honesty, a taut tale of fear and resentment and other threats from within, meticulously observed and fearlessly rendered in vivid, authoritative, gripping prose. It’s a virtuoso performance.”

Gregory Spatz currently serves as Associate Professor at Eastern Washington University and is the fiddler for the bluegrass band, John Reichsman and the Jaybirds. In addition, he is the author of Fiddler’s Dream, No One But Us, and Wonderful Tricks. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Iowa Arts Fellowship, the Michener Fellowship, and a Washington State Book Award. In addition, his bluegrass band was nominated for a Juno Award in 2008.

The reading will be held Friday May 25^th at 7:00 p.m at Auntie’s Bookstore in downtown Spokane. 

Kim Barnes

On Wendesday, June 13^th, award-winning author and professor Kim Barnes will discuss her latest book, In the Kingdom of Men. Barnes is the author of two memoirs and three novels, including the books Finding Caruso, A County Called Home, and In the Kingdom of Men. She was born and raised in Idaho and is currently a professor of English at the University of Idaho.

Her latest novel, In the Kingdom of Men, is a mystery centering on an woman from Oklahoma whose seemingly perfect marriage and rich life in Saudi Arabia is turned upside down when she suspects her husband of murder. Diana Abu-Iaber, author of Birds of Paradise says, ”… In The Kingdom of Men transports readers to the sands of Arabia and the recesses of the human heart.” Author Ellen Sussman says  “…this novel has it all: an intriguing story that thunders to a thrilling climax, characters who grab our hearts, gorgeous prose, and a setting that stuns the reader at every turn. Arabia!"

If you are interested in attending, the reading will take place at 7:00 p.m. at Auntie’s Bookstore on Main Ave. in downtown Spokane.

Jim Lynch and Jess Walter

Tuesday May 22nd, Auntie’s Bookstore will welcome authors Jim Lynch and Jess Walter to discuss Lynch’s latest book, Truth Like the Sun. The book, alternately set in the city of Seattle during the World’s Fair of 1962 and in 2001, is an urban tale of political corruption and its discovery forty years later. Jenny Shank of the Dallas News says the “…novel’s structure is clever and propulsive” and Janet Maslin of the New York Times calls Roger Morgan, the novel’s central character, a “… wonder of wonders -- an original flesh and blood creation."

Jim Lynch is a Seattle native and author of three books set in the Pacific Northwest. His books include The Highest Tide, Border Song and his most recent publication, Truth Like the Sun. He is also an award-winning journalist and has written for publications like the Spokesman-Review and the Seattle Times.

Lynch will be joined by his friend and fellow author, Jess Walter. Walter's books include his most recent novel, Beautiful Ruins, as well as award-winning novels The Financial Lives of Poets and The Zero.  The Q&A will begin at 7 p.m.

Alexis Smith and Evan P. Shneider - Author Reading

Once again, Auntie's is featuring two fantastic up-and-coming authors. Sunday, May 20 will bring two Portland novelists, Alexis Smith and Evan P. Shneider.

Alexis Smith's Glaciers brings you into the memories of Isabel, the bookish protagonist who cherishes the history in things old and vintage. Tucked between the words of Smith's book are highlights into the life of a Portland bookkeeper who dreams about the glaciers of Alaska. Even while turning the pages, one can't help but visualize their own forgotten memories and trinkets, whether they were baseball cards shared with dad, or an old ring handed down generations of a maternal line.

Evan P. Schneider changes the mood with his book entitled A Simple Machine, Like the Lever. We can all relate in some way to Nicholas Allender, who's endeavoring to keep his head above water in all aspects of his life. Between trying to keep his job, bringing smiles to his girlfriend's face, and not getting lost in the ups and downs of life's trivialities, Schneider's novel offers a change of ordinary in the form of an extraordinary character.

Check out these two amazing authors Sunday, May 20 at 1 p.m. at Auntie's Bookstore.

Kate McLachlan - Author Reading

This Friday, May 18, Auntie's Bookstore welcomes Kate McLachlan, an author dwelling in Eastern Washington with her wife, two dogs, and a cat. After teaching public school for roughly fourteen years McLachlan decided to give law school a try, seeking a day job that would muster her creative juices. Her energy prompted her to deliver three books: Rip Van Dyke (June 2010), Rescue at Inspiration Point (November 2011), and her most recent, Hearts, Dead and Alive (March 2012).

McLachlan will be reading excerpts from her latest book, which revolves around Kimberly Wayland, a fifth grade teacher, coming across a human heart in a dumpster and the chaotic mysteries that follow. Most of McLachlan's books incorporate several genres such as time travel, mystery, and historical fiction.

The discussion begins promptly at 7 pm. For more information visit Auntie's Bookstore at www.auntiesbooks.com, or call 509.838.0206

Seattle International Film Festival

Pacific Northwest film lovers have something to get excited about this week, as the 38^th Seattle International Film Festival kicks off Thursday in Seattle, WA. As the nation’s largest and most well attended film festival, the SIFF will present 273 features and open with the film Your Sister’s Sister, starring Emily Blunt and directed by Seattle native, Lynn Shelton. 

The festival will feature a wide array of films for all ages. Titles in include Robot and Frank, Fat Kid Rules the World, and Lola Versus. In addition, Pixar will have a special presentation of the new animated feature, Brave. 

If you are not able to make it this week, don’t worry. The SIFF is the longest running festival in the country and will be presenting through June10th. Features, show times and ticket purchase information can be found at the official SIFF website, www.siff.net. In addition, the festival offers the brand-new app, SIFFter, to help movie-goers make their selections. 

Here's a preview of Your Sister's Sister: