Seattle Seahawks team store coming to Spokane Valley

The Spokane area is plenty full of 12th man pride, and now local Seattle Seahawks fans will have an awesome new place to purchase Seahawks jerseys, apparel, gifts and other licensed merchandise. That's because Spokane Valley will soon be home to a location of the Seahawks Pro Shop.

The Seahawks Pro Shop will open for business on October 1st and will be located within the Spokane Valley Mall. For now this store will only be open during the 2015 holiday season but is listed as a location on seahawks.com website.

The team pro shop will be located on the first floor of the mall, in between Wet Seal and Francesca's . This will be the first pro shop location east of the Cascades and will be a full store with kinds of Seahawks merchandise. For more information and to shop for items online visit the Seahawks Pro Shop at-

http://www.seahawks.com/proshop

Peak Health & Wellness undergoing major expansion / relocation

The small chain of fitness centers, Peak Health & Wellness is always trying to push itself and offer more for it's members. Earlier this year Peak completed an all new indoor tennis center in Hayden across the parking lot from it's health club. The indoor tennis facility is quite large and has kept busy. But now, Peak is embarking on yet another big project, an expansion to that tennis center to act as a new home for the entire Peak Hayden location.

Peak Health & Wellness Hayden is located on the back side of the Prairie Shopping Center at 190 W. Centa Dr, with the tennis center next door on Government Way.

The expansion is quite large and is estimated to be completed around March of 2016. Included in the new fitness center will be-

15,000 square foot weight room on the second floor.

2,400 square foot group fitness studio.

1,200 square foot group cycling studio

1,200 square foot hot yoga studio

Tanning & Massage rooms

900 square foot child care center

Expanded group training area

Half basketball court / pickleball court

The expansion will also include a new grand staircase inside the building and additional free parking areas. It is assumed that Peak will vacate the space in the shopping center upon completion of this new expansion.

Peak Health & Wellness will also continue to operate their two other fitness centers in North Idaho. Other Peak locations include 940 W. Ironwood Dr. , Coeur d' Alene and 927 E. Polston Ave. , Post Falls.

For more information Peak Health & Wellness Centers, visit their website at-

www.thepeakid.com

Once Upon A Child planning a North Spokane location

It hasn't been all that long since Once Upon A Child upgraded to a new bigger store in Spokane Valley. The chain has been going strong ever since in it's 5,100 square foot storefront at 14401 E. Sprague Ave. . But, the business is planning to grow once more locally, this time with an all new second location.

Once Upon A Child's new store will be in North Spokane. The business will take over a long vacant strip mall space, adjacent to Louisville Laser. The store's address will be 6005 N. Division and will occupy about 4,500 square feet. The store will create about a dozen new jobs.

The North Spokane Once Upon A Child will, like all other stores in the chain, buy and sell gently used " kid's stuff ". The stores typically sell their merchandise for much less then average department stores / mall stores.

Once Upon A Child, does sell children's clothing, but they include much more. Customers of their stores can also find toys & games , books , movies , baby equipment and some furniture. Some new kids merchandise is also sold in the stores, in addition to the used.

The planned North Spokane Once Upon A Child location is being worked on now and they hope to open soon. They hope to open in late October for buying merchandise, and selling to the public in December.

Once Upon A Child is a chain business that uses franchises and has many stores all around the nation. The brand is a part of the much larger Winmark Corporation who is also the owners of Plato's Closet ( which also has locations in Spokane ) , Style Encore, Play It Again Sports and Music Go Round .

For more information on Once Upon A Child , in our area, visit their website at-

www.onceuponachildinlandempire.com

Major redevelopment coming to the Heritage North, by the Y

While not a sure thing as of this posting, a predevelopment conference has been held with the City of Spokane to undertake a major redevelopment at a North Spokane shopping center. That center is the older Heritage North Shopping Center on N. Newport Hwy in between Holland Ave. , and the new Heritage Village Shopping Center, just North of The Y .

Despite a few vacancies the Heritage North Center has been home the several small local businesses. But, under the plan, the existing center, located in two separate buildings would be demolished and replaced by a new building with a small group of national tenants. The plan calls for the new building to have three tenants with the building facing the Newport / Holland intersection, instead of just Newport Hwy as it does now.

Likely because no permits have been issued yet there is no news about what all the existing business there will move too. We hope they are able to move, as most are small businesses. Although the news is vague about the existing businesses, what business are going in there looks a little more clear. Although we're unsure if leases have been signed , etc... but, these business do add up. The business planned for the new Heritage North are-

Aspen Dental

Mod Pizza

Wells Fargo Bank

Here is the example lay out of the new shopping center building-

The new building will be about 10,000 square feet with a new surface parking lot. Construction is expected to start in the near future, watch for updates on exactly when and a completion date. The center seems to be fully leased, however the leasing work is / was done by NAI Black. It's not the only new development in the area as another new shopping center is now open directly across Newport Hwy, next to a Cheveron gas station.

4 Wheel Parts store & distribution center now open in Post Falls

First announced back in June, the first tenant of Post Falls' former Jacklin Seed Industrial site is now open for business, creating many new jobs for the Inland Northwest. That tenant is a 4 Wheel Parts, operated by it's parent company Transamerican Auto Parts .

Here's some information about this new business-

Occupies 85,000 square feet, with a 10,000 square foot 4 Wheel Parts branded retail store and a 75,000 square foot regional distribution center

4 Wheel Parts sells a wide variety of auto parts and accessories, primarily geared towards truck and jeep owners.

The company sells via several different channels, retail stores like this one, the internet and a mail order catalog.

They are located just off of I-90 at 5300 W. Riversbend Ave, Post Falls

 

As mentioned before this new store / distribution center created many new local jobs. The company is to employ about 50 at the new site. Hiring is actually still on going and information about jobs with 4 Wheel Parts can be found on their website at-

 

www.4wheelparts.com

 



Brothers Office Pizza to open in Liberty Lake

Brothers Office Pizza, one of the newer pizza places in Spokane Valley is expanding eastward. The locally owned and operated business ( owned by brothers ) is planning to open soon in Liberty Lake. This will be a second location for the pizza business, as they also plan to stay open at their original location , 13221 E. 32nd on the South side of the Valley.

The new Liberty Lake location will have the same menu as the original location. It will also have a full liquor license for beer, wine and liquors. They hope to be open for business around Thanksgiving time and will be located at 21651 E. Country Vista Dr. Suite A. This is the anchor space of the shopping center by Home Depot there.

While Brothers Office doesn't have a web site, their menu and some pictures of their pizzas can be found on Zomato ( formerly Urbanspoon) at - https://www.zomato.com/spokane-wa/brothers-office-pizza-spokane-valley . Brothers Office is primarily a pizza restaurant, however they also have some sandwiches.

Brothers Office Pizza can however be found on Facebook at-

https://www.facebook.com/Brothers-Office-Pizza-689670661108231

Two more redevelopment projects coming to Downtown Spokane

In recent months Downtown Spokane has been hit with several renovation projects, most notably the Bennett Block building and the former Huppin's / Dutch's store spaces right across the street. But as SDS Realty,Inc. recently unveiled on their Facebook page, two more big projects are coming and one even involves a local landmark...

319 S. Cedar St ( the Benewah Creamery " Milk Bottle " and adjoining storefront ) .

 

Currently it looks like no new businesses are actually planned here as of yet. But, I can't help but dream what could fill such a cool historic building ( with some visibility from I-90 ). We will keep an eye out...

 

 

315 & 319 W. Sprague Ave.

 



This is the former Big City Saloon / Trick Shot Dixie's bar building, that's looked a little sad with boards covering it's front in recent weeks. But, it looks like there is hope for the site, although there is not a new business set to open here just yet. However, it is a great old building with a lot of possibilities and space.


For more information about opening a business in one of these great old Downtown buildings, please contact SDS Realty at the numbers in the ad's above. Or, visit their website at-

www.sdsrealty.com

*Inland Northwest Business Watch is not affiliated with SDS.

Couple of Spokane Valley shopping centers getting revamped

Recently construction work started on the outside of Sullivan Square, at the corner of Sprague & Sullivan. Today, business signs are missing and workers are already hard at work, but for what?

Sullivan Square is the second shopping center in the Sullivan Rd. corridor to get an all new look. We've even heard new business might even be on the way very soon. Here is the details on both projects...

Sullivan Square shopping center

The center, that's anchored by Hastings and Harbor Freight Tools is undergoing a full exterior remodel. Once completed ( no estimated completion date has been given to me ) the center will have a new more modern look. Leasing flyers for the site show this rendering of the completed development. Sorry if their a little small, they can be seen in full size on NAI Black's web site www.naiblack.com .

With some suites in the center are empty and available for lease ( as indicted above ) . There is already rumors of new businesses coming to Sullivan Square. I've heard that possibly, Ezell's Famous Chicken will open their second Spokane area location here.

But, as of now just construction is happening at the shopping center. However it is important to note all businesses in the center today remain open for business during the construction.

Shopping center at 615 N. Sullivan Rd.

Another shopping center just a couple of blocks to the north of Sullivan Square also has a new look. The un-named center at 615 N. Sullivan has been remodeled and also has a couple of storefronts on it's northern end empty and up for lease. However, as of now there are no rumors about what new businesses might open there. Although with the new look, and high traffic area we expect it to be only a matter of time.

615 N. Sullivan is the center by Noodles Express and anchored by a Jimmy John's Subs location. The center went from this...

To this....

Shopping center construction projects elsewhere...

While I'm only highlighting these two project now, it is of note that a couple of other projects are also happening or will happen soon in our area. Including a exterior remodel on part of Lincoln Heights Shopping Center on the South Hill. That remodel is to match the Rite Aid / 2nd Look Books side of the center with the Trader Joe's / Hallmark side which was remodeled when Trader Joe's opened a couple of years ago.

Also the center on Sprague, between Argonne and Mullan is too be redone. The former Apollo Spas store in North Spokane will become a three unit shopping center soon ( with a huge new business rumor on it ) . And, an all new shopping center / office development under construction now at 3rd & Browne in Downtown Spokane ( to have a Man Shop and Einstein Bros. Bagels ) .

Last Tully's Coffee in Spokane transitioning to a Starbucks

It's a sad day for local fans of the Tully's Coffee chain as the only remaining Tully's location in Spokane is closing. The location was a kiosk within the Wandermere Fred Meyer store at 12120 N. Division St. But, rest assured coffee drinkers will still be able to get their espresso's and latte's at the store as the Tully's kiosk is transitioning into a new Starbucks Coffee location.

 

The store switch will not create any layoffs as employees of Fred Meyer's in store coffee stands are employed by Fred Meyer itself. While Tully's Coffee will no longer operate coffee shops in Spokane, it is important to note that they are still in business with some of their coffee sold in Keurig K Cups at most area grocery stores. Tully's other former locations in our area ( including the one in Browne's Addition ) transitioned sometime ago into franchises of the Café Capri coffee shop chain.

 

There is no mention of when the new Starbucks will open. For more information on Starbucks Coffee visit their website at-

 

www.starbucks.com

Table 13 Restaurant opens inside the Davenport Grand Hotel

The final piece of the massive new Davenport Grand Hotel has finally opened for business. Opening just last week was the highly anticipated Table 13.

Table 13 is a restaurant concept that is still relatively new to Spokane and is owned by Walt & Karen Worthly, the same couple that's behind all of the Davenport Collection hotels. Table 13 is described as a small plate restaurant where they recommend two or more plates per person to share with the table.

The dinner menu at Table 13 is long, with plates for most any taste. Fish dishes like prawns and halibut sliders, all the way up to Korean short ribs and prime rib can be found. Prices at Table 13 are a little higher then some, with items starting at $6.50 and going up to $13.00 per plate.

If your just wanting to get a drink, Table 13 is the place for that also. The restaurant has a full bar with wine and whiskey highlighted, but beer lovers will also find a few options. Both the wine list and the whiskey bar menu are very long and also have something for every taste.

Table 13 is open Tuesday - Saturday 5pm - close only and reservations are available at 509-598-4300 or by using Opentable at www.opentable.com .

Table 13 joins a small group of other dining options inside Downtown Spokane's new Davenport Grand Hotel. Also inside, and open for business is The Grand Restaurant and Lounge, The Grand Terrace Bar and a Starbucks Coffee location. All attached to the Convention Center via skybridge, providing a great spot to stay and dine for visitors and locals alike.

For more information the Davenport Grand Hotel and Table 13 visit-

http://www.davenporthotelcollection.com/our-hotels/the-davenport-grand/

Randall & Hurley moving to Liberty Lake

Randall & Hurley, is the largest third party administrator ( TPA ) consulting firm in the Inland Northwest. The business operates company retirement programs for many clients in our area. And this year Randall & Hurley is celebrating 20 years in business, having opened in 1995.

And, in their 20th year, a lot is changing. While, still continuing to offer top notch service in the same industry they have built a positive reputation in. They are rebranding their company and the big news is their move to a new bigger office building.

Randall & Hurley has operated out of the 16th floor of Downtown Spokane's Bank of America Tower. And, now they are leaving Downtown behind for a new modern office building in Liberty Lake. Randall & Hurley is taking over the former Liberty Lake Century 21 office building at 1328 N. Whitman Ln. nearby Home Depot.

Randall & Hurley will use the entire building, which is about 12,000 square feet. The move will also open up more new job openings, they plan to hire about 6 with the move, adding to the 31 current employees that work for Randall & Hurley.

If you are an employer looking for new employee retirement plans, contact Randall & Hurley for a free plan analysis. Information on this and other aspects of their company can be found at-

www.randall-hurley.com

Panera Bread planning location in Hayden

Panera Bread continues to expand into the Northwest. The chain recently opened for business on Indiana Ave. in Spokane Valley and plans are coming along for a location in North Spokane on N. Division in front of Lowe's.

But now, the chain of fast casual restaurants is planning to expand into Idaho with seven locations in the works statewide. One of those locations has been confirmed to be coming to Hayden. Other Idaho Panera Bread locations are planned for Boise, Nampa ( now open ), Twin Falls and Idaho Falls. This the first time the chain has opened locations in Idaho and all locations will be corporate operated stores as opposed to some franchise locations in other parts of the country.

The Hayden Panera Bread location should open around the middle of 2016. The company cannot release it's location however yet. This is because the plan to remove and existing building and rebuilt as their restaurant. I will update this post when the location information comes in.

The Panera Bread location in Hayden will likely be much like other Panera Bread locations. Typically their restaurant are about 5,000 square feet and employ 65, give or take.

Panera Bread is based in Kirkwood,Mo. and operates over 2,000 restaurants with rapid expansion happening all over the nation. For more information on Panera Bread, visit their website at-

www.panerabread.com

Grand opening of Blaze Pizza this week

Blaze Pizza has been hard at work at getting their first Spokane location ready to open, and they're almost ready. In fact, not only is this Blaze Pizza's first location in Spokane, it will be their first location to open in Washington State.

Blaze Pizza is fast casual style pizza restaurant, similar to the Mod Pizza chain that's recently set up a handful of locations in our area. Customers of Blaze Pizza locations, pick from a variety of toppings in a assembly line type setup, pizzas are then " fast fire'd " in 180 seconds and served up hot and fresh.

The Spokane Blaze Pizza location will be in the University District, at 918 N. Division. The restaurant, which offers dine in seating, will be next door neighbors to Chipotle Mexican Grill. At this time it is the only location planned locally.

The Spokane location will host their Grand Opening celebration on Friday, September 25th from 10 am - 1 am . Customers who like Blaze Pizza on their various social media pages will get free pizza during the grand opening, here's the details on that...

Blaze Pizza occupies 2600 square feet of space and offer seating for 50 inside and a small amount of seating on an outdoor patio. The pizza's are 11 inches, thin crust and range in price from $5 to $7.50, gluten free dough and vegan cheese are also available for customers with special dietary needs.

For more information on Blaze Pizza, visit their website at-

www.blazepizza.com

New Restaurant Review: The Blackbird Tavern & Kitchen

The Blackbird opened for business back in early Summer this year, so I'm a bit behind in reviewing it, but still in my opinion deserves the mention. The Blackbird is the new, more upscale sister business of Manito Tap House on the South Hill. And, just like at Manito ( another favorite of mine ) beer has a strong focus, just not quite as strong. The Blackbird is also a green restaurant like Manito, but that's about where the similarity's end.

The Blackbird has a great location, on the ground floor of the historic Broadview Dairy Building at 905 N. Washington St. It's near Riverfront Park, Downtown and Spokane Arena. In fact it's the arena that finally got me here in the first place because we planned to attend the Shania Twain concert later that same evening.

I love the building, it's history is incredible and The Blackbird has honored that. The décor is basic, mostly black and white and not over the top. The Space itself is only medium sized but there is a pleasant outdoor dining area facing Washington St. . Given this on a busy night, like when I was there, it can become kind of loud inside.

The Blackbird's menu is a bit different then most other restaurants in Spokane. Specials are almost always available and include things like the most recent Moroccan lamb ribs and carrot fritters. The main menu is also unique and delicious with both a dinner menu and a brunch menu. Brunch however is only served 8am- 1pm.

What's makes my day personally is the amount of meat dishes ( they do, however, have other options ) . Walking up to the building along Cataldo you can actually smell bacon cooking in the air. And, these aren't just regular plain burgers,etc... . The Blackbird serves up dishes like Brisket Sandwiches ,  Pork Belly and get this... bacon fat popcorn. Let me say it again.... bacon fat popcorn!

On my visit however, I choice to skip the bacon fat popcorn ( I'll be back for it though... ) and get the twisted pretzel as an appetizer. Surprisingly it's not twisted at all, but instead is small tower of soft pretzel sticks. Served hot and fresh with stout mustard and bacon mascarpone for dipping...

The pretzels themselves we're served, maybe even a bit too hot, but tasted great and we're perfectly soft. But onto the main meal...

Being a big lover of brisket, I naturally ordered the brisket sandwich. Unlike other restaurants sandwiches aren't served with any side dishes. But, I feel the sandwich served to me was plenty big enough and full of meat to not need a side. The meat was cooked just right and served uniquely on a cutting board, which you'll likely need because it's too long not to cut at least in half.  I would defiantly recommend getting this sandwich.

Note: The pea pods in this picture did not come with the sandwich. Instead it is served with house made pickles, me and my wife did a bit of a switch a roo. The peas come with the turkey pot pie, which is not a traditional pot pie. Instead it is more of a stew, with the crust only covering the top, inside is turkey, roasted carrot and onion. Here is look at that...

We did not divulge in any desserts during our visit to The Blackbird but most point out there are several offerings in that department. Including a bread putting with whiskey in it and much more.

Would I come back to The Blackbird Tavern & Kitchen, most certainly! It's a real treat to have a place like this in our fine city and wish them much success for years to come. Five stars for sure!

For more information The Blackbird, including a look at their menu, visit their website at-

http://theblackbirdspokane.com

Or, find them on Facebook at-

http://www.facebook.com/blackbirdspokane


Suggest future restaurant reviews, to Matt Behringer at inlandbusiness@yahoo.com. Only rule is the restaurant must be under six months old, food trucks OK also.

Numerica Credit Union continues to expand, plans new branch in Post Falls

Numerica Credit Union continues to invest in it's home, the Inland Northwest with several new branches and a upcoming branch remodel. Numerica currently has over 100,000 members and over $1.3 billion dollars in assets. Membership at Numerica is open to anyone who lives or works in Washington or the Idaho Panhandle.

Here is the scoop on what all is new with Numerica-

New branch at 4909 E. Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley

In early summer, Numerica replaced it's Havana St. branch with a brand new branch in a brand new building. But, still not far away from the old one, near the Valley Costco at 4909 E. Sprague Ave. This branch has more modern look and takes up all of the 3,700 square foot free standing building.

It also features a tech bar for customers to charge cell phones and electronic brochures.  "We’re here to foster well-being in people’s lives, so our branch is light, airy and stress-free,” says Guy Ottersen, Numerica’s Sprague branch manager of the cleverly designed floor plan.

Remodel of the branch at 722 N. Sullivan Rd. , Spokane Valley

Remodeling work has already started on the existing Numerica branch, just south of the I-90 / Sullivan Rd. interchange. If the project goes as planned it should wrap up around December and include many new features.

Plans call for a more open floor plan, a game station for kids, a refreshment station for drinks and snacks and the same tech bar feature as mentioned before.

New branch at 4911 S. Regal , Spokane

Also using the more friendly open floor plan is Numerica's newest branch to open at 4911 S. Regal on the South Hill. This new branch just opened at the end of August and is conveniently located in a end cap unit, next to T Mobile at the Regal Plaza Shopping Center.

New branch coming soon to Post Falls

Although signage has already been put up construction actually begins Oct. 1st for Numerica's next branch, this time in Post Falls. The Post Falls Numerica branch will be in the Highland Crossings Shopping Center at the corner of Hwy 41 and Mullan Ave. More precisely, in the former Noodles Express restaurant space.

This new branch will be 2800 square feet and employ 7 who will be universally trained in all of Numerica's many services.  Currently this branch is scheduled to be completed in January 2016 and will feature a 24 hour drive up ATM.

Here are some photos of this new branch's future location:

For more information Numerica Credit Union, visit their website at-

www.numericacu.com

Gilded Unicorn opening in former Catacombs Pub space

Only a couple of weeks ago it was announced that local developer, Jerry Dicker's Ruby Hospitality would be taking over ownership and operations of the Montvale Hotel in Downtown Spokane. The Montvale, the city's oldest hotel, has struggled since being effected by another developers bankruptcy, it's two restaurant spaces have sat empty in recent months.

But, with the recent sale to Ruby Hospitality it was announced both spaces will soon be re-filled. The space next to the hotel lobby will become a coffee shop of some sort. And, now we know more about what will take the basement space, that was last Catacombs Pub ( 110 S. Monroe ).

That space will become a new craft cocktail bar and eatery called Gilded Unicorn.

Gilded Unicorn appears to be a project of well known local chef Adam Hegsted, the same name behind The Wandering Table and Yards a Bruncheon in Kendall Yards.

 

We are waiting to here back about when Gilded Unicorn will open for business, but we do know it will offer a full bar and a decent size food menu. An early look at the menu reveals mostly American dishes with somewhat unique twists. Everything from sandwiches, entrees, salads and smaller appetizer type dishes.  A drink menu had not been published as of yet.

 

Gilded Unicorn will be open seven days a week, Mon. - Thurs. 11:30 am - 12:00 am , Fri. & Sat. 11:30 am - 1:30 am and Sun. 8:00 am -2:30 pm ( perhaps for a Sunday brunch service ? ).

 

Gilded Unicorn's website is still a work in progress ( as of the time I am writing this ), but will be able to be found at- www.gildedunicorn.com

 

And, they can be found on Facebook at-

 

www.facebook.com/gildedunicornbar

 

 



A look inside Pemco Insurance's large Spokane Valley offices

Back in early March, Seattle based Pemco Insurance moved their regional offices from a space in Downtown Spokane to a bigger facility in Spokane Valley. Today the growing insurance company takes up 26,000 square feet of office space on the fourth floor of the Riverview Corporate Center at 16201 E. Indiana. In fact Pemco's offices there, take up about half of the fourth floor of the large office center.

Unfortunately, for one reason or another I never wrote about this move back in March, so if you'd like to find more information check out this article from the Journal of Business-
Pemco Insurance moves Spokane-area operations to big Valley space

The reason for mentioning this now, is the new Pemco offices, with a cool modern look we're recently featured on the officesnapshots.com blog, complete with many pictures. There is also a brief description of what all is included in the new Pemco Insurance office space. I encourage checking out this cool article and see what the future of office space in Spokane might look like-

 

http://officesnapshots.com/2015/09/16/pemco-insurance-spokane-offices/

 

 

Also, important to note is these new offices we're designed by the Spokane based HDG Architecture & Design. Way to go HDG! ( for more information on HDG, visit- http://hdg-architecture.com/ )

 

And, for more information on Pemco Insurance, visit-

 

www.pemco.com



Who is moving into the former Nut Factory in Spokane Valley?

The Nut Factory was a bit of a Spokane Valley landmark, with a unique name and easily visible from I-90 near the Barker Rd. exit. But, the company decided last year to close their retail store, move to a new warehouse and re-focus their business. Today, The Nut Factory still operates out of our local area but now only sells their various nut lines in wholesale and on the internet.

So, it caught me by surprise when I noticed sold signs on their building last week, since it has been empty for awhile now. Turns out that building, a long with the former mobile home sales business next door we're sold for $1.87 million to a group called WT Investments,LLC and they plan to fix the property for use by their business , Viking Homes .

 

Viking Homes is a easily recognizable name in the Spokane market with several developments in Spokane, Coeur d' Alene and even the Tri-Cities containing their homes. They even have constructed a couple of apartment complexes in North Idaho, with more reported to be on the way in the future.

 

Viking Homes will occupy all of the 15,622 square foot building and adjacent 5+ acre former home sales lot. Their plans call for using this space to consolidate their current operations, which are in both Hayden,ID and Spokane Valley into this new site. The current offices will close upon completion of the move.

 

For more information on Viking Homes and where they are currently building, visit their website at-

 

www.vikinghomes.com

 

Or, find them on Facebook at-

www.facebook.com/vikinghomes

Hatch: Creative Business Incubator opens in Spokane Valley

Spokane has so many creative minds, it's part of the reason I love to live here. And providing a place for those creative minds to work and sell their wares is the purpose of a new place now open in Spokane Valley. It's actually a full business incubator of creative businesses, called Hatch : Creative Business Incubator and this is their logo:

The new Hatch incubator is located at 9612 E. Sprague Ave. above The Black Diamond bar. There, Hatch takes up a total of seven office suites and already has a number of cool new business tenants. Among the business that can be found at Hatch are: Terra Obscura, Creative Consignment, ARU , Loud & Proud Entertainment and other painters, artists, writers and video artists. There even is still some vacant space available for more exciting new businesses.

Hatch Creative Business Incubator also offers a event space, an on site classroom and meeting spaces. The owner of Hatch says they are a community and they harbor all true creative hearts.

 For more information on Hatch, find them on Facebook at-

https://www.facebook.com/Hatch-Creative-Business-Incubator-1027841613911514

Palouse Trails Apartments planned for the South Hill

Another new apartment complex has been purposed to be built in the Southgate Neighborhood on the South Hill. Joining, several others nearby, including a couple complexes that only opened in the last couple of years. The project is called Palouse Trails Apartments ,  and will be developed by Whitewater Creek,Inc. of Hayden,ID.

Palouse Trails is currently in the permitting / open comment period with construction yet to begin. The project is entirely residential and will be built along Palouse Hwy, east of the new Regal Plaza Shopping Center ( Where the new Target is ) . Just like other apartment complexes built by Whitewater Creek, Palouse Trails will be income based. This means the apartments will be available to residents making 50% of the median local income.

The apartment complex will have 114 apartments spread out over 5 total apartment buildings . On site surface parking and an on site community building / leasing office are also included in the plans. A small children's play area is also set aside nearby the leasing office. At this point in time there is no opening date or apartment size information. Although we we're able to obtain this image of what the Palouse Trails Apartments will look like once completed-

As already mentioned this project is currently in it's open comment phase. If you'd like to share your opinions on this project contact John Halsey with the City of Spokane at jhalsey@spokanecity.org , the comment period runs until Wednesday, September 23rd.

Spokane Arena celebrating 20 years with free open house event #spokanearena20

Ever wondered what it looks like backstage at the Spokane Arena? Been curious about the inter workings of our city's 12,000 seat arena? Well, later this month is your chance to find out all about your Spokane Arena with an open house that's open to the public.

The open house is a part of the Spokane Arena's 20th anniversary celebrations. It is a free event, and there will also be no parking fee for guests on this evening. The open house will take place on Friday, September 25th from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM and will include-

Self guided tours

Interactive photo opportunities

A chance to throw a football on the Spokane Shock's field

Major prize giveaways

Birthday cake

This event will also allow guests to get up close and person with the arena as the Spokane Shock locker rooms and their " tech world " will be among the areas open to check out.

For more information on Spokane Arena, including other upcoming events and games, visit-

www.spokanearena.com

EZ Fix Smartphone Repair opens in Spokane Valley

Breaking a cell phone can really ruin your day, making it difficult to get your calendar and contacts back, and of course not being able to check Inland Northwest Business Watch regularly ( like I know you all do ! ).

But, one new business in Spokane Valley might just be the answer to help you out of the broken smartphone pickle. EZ Fix Smartphone Repair is that business and they opened recently at 11305 E. Sprague Ave Suite 102.

 

The new location is a part of mini chain of smartphone repair businesses with locations around Washington. EZ Fix also operates stores in Pasco, Yakima and Kennewick ( under the Smart Fix Cellphone Repair name in Kennewick ) .

 

EZ Fix Smartphone Repair can fix most any make or model of phone including Iphone's. Everything from broken screens to virus removal , charging port repairs , water damage and more. Repair isn't their only business as EZ Fix also sells H2O Wireless cell phone service and sells some accessories like phone cases.

 

The business is open seven days a week and easy to find about a block west of the Sprague and Bowdish intersection.

 

For more information on EZ Fix Smartphone Repair, visit their website at-

 

http://www.ezfixsmartphonerepair.com/

 

 

 



A Dream is a Wish Princess Palace opening soon

A Dream is a Wish Princess Parties has made many a small child's dreams come true in the Spokane area for awhile now. Providing princess themed private parties at the customer's location within 25 miles of Spokane. And while the business has built a good sized amount of satisfied customers, it has lacked one thing. A set party venue of their own, until now...

A Dream is a Wish will open in only a few more day's, a new space called A Dream is a Wish Princess Palace in about 1,200 square feet of space at 601 W. Maxwell just north of Downtown Spokane.

The Princess Palace will officially open with a grand opening celebration on September 19th . The grand opening will be a full party with " digging for buried treasure with the little mermaid, getting a makeover with the Snow sisters, making a craft with Cinderella & more! " . Guests of the grand opening must purchase tickets for $10.00 on the businesses web site, tickets include one child and one adult.

But, the grand opening won't be the only time to check out the new A Dream is a Wish Princess Palace. As once open the palace will be available to be rented as a party venue with rental times available on Friday evenings and most anytime on Saturday and Sunday.

Parties held in The Princess Palace will have many princess themed features like makeovers, dance lessons and sing a longs just to name a few. Party packages are available and some add-ons are available like cakes, cupcakes, goodie bags, even a custom candy buffet table and more.

A Dream is a Wish Princess Parties still plans of also continuing to host private princess parties with several party packages available for those as well.

For more information on A Dream is a Wish Princess Parties, visit their website at-

http://www.adreamisawishprincessparties.com/

La Michoacana moving to former University Appliance building in Spokane Valley

After a few years of building their business in a small storefront at 10617 E. Sprague Ave, La Michoacana Mini Market is moving to a much bigger space. And, in addition to the bigger space, they will also finally fill a building on E. Sprague that's been vacant for sometime and play a part in building up the area.

La Michoacana will fill the former home of University Appliance at 9907 E. Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley. They will use the entire building, remodeling has already begun, a large sign already greats commuters as seen here -

At the present time La Michocana does not have a opening date as there is still work to be done. The new place will be similar to their last only bigger and more restaurant focused. Some new menu items will be introduced and more seating.

La Michoacana will also sell meats, bread and pastries, and some Mexican grocery items. The business has gained quite the local following in recent years as some consider them to be the most authentic Mexican restaurant / grocery in the Spokane area.

For more information on La Michoacana, find them on Facebook at-

https://www.facebook.com/La-Michoacana-Mini-Market-223493987736682/

New resturant openings & closings- Sept. 14th 2015

Today's list of new restaurant's and food service businesses isn't as long as some in the past, but still a few that we're worth noting. So here are the highlights-

Jersey Mike's Subs at Northtown Square Shopping Center

Actually already covered in a prior article from back in August ( Here- Jersey Mike's opening location near Northtown Mall ) is the new Jersey Mike's Subs location in Northtown Square. But, thanks to a helpful tip, we've found out that the chain's location there will be opening on October 6th. They are going in next to Sport Clips facing Wellesley.

Elixir Espresso

A new espresso place will be opening for business sometime around the middle of October by the I-90 Medical Lake exit. The place will go into the small building at the corner Westbow Rd and Aero Rd (10427 W Aero Rd. ).

It's name will be Elixir Espresso and will have a full coffee drink menu. In addition they plan to have some foods, Coffee shop standards like muffins, cookies and pastries.  Elixir Espresso will be primarily a drive through, but will also have a small inside area for customers to come in and sit and relax for awhile.

Pepe Caldo Pizzeria

Big things are coming to Coeur d' Alene's locally owned and operated Pepe Caldo Pizzeria. Citing a need for a bigger location the business recently closed up shop in the their small Midtown strip mall storefront ( at 1606 N. 4th ) .

But we have been assured Pepe Caldo will still be in business, now in a new bigger location just over a mile away from the original. They have not gone public with the exact address of the new location but say it's on Ironwood Dr. ( perhaps nearby Kootenai Medical Center ) and the lease has been signed.

Gaslamp

We're still waiting to hear more details on this new place, however we have confirmed that a new bar call Gaslamp featuring " social provisions " is coming to the third floor of River Park Square in Downtown Spokane. The new business will be directly next to the AMC Movie Theater's box office in the former Arbor Crest Winery tasting room space.

The space is being remodeled right now ( with a giant wall ad out front now ) and will likely also include some foods but menu examples is another thing we have yet to track down. We're told Gaslamp should be open by the end of the month, keep watching to more as I hope to do a full post on this exciting new place very soon.

Love @ First Bite Desserts

Cupcake and dessert bakery, Love @ First Bite has closed down their shop in Spokane Valley. They had been located at 14401 E. Sprague Ave. and are now selling off equipment, displays and similar.

Two big grand openings to hit Downtown Spokane soon

Anthropolgie and &Kloth are both now open for business across Main from River Park Square. But, while they may have been more talked about new businesses, another two are still coming and both coincidently are opening on the same day. They are..


Mod Pizza Downtown

The Seattle based pizza restaurant chain that creates personal sized pizzas in a Subway style experience is sweeping through the Inland Northwest. Mod Pizza has already opened for business on the South Hill ( Regal Plaza, by the new South Hill Target ) and Coeur d' Alene ( Crossroads at Coeur d' Alene, by Winco ). But, now there ready to open their newest location right in the heart of Downtown Spokane.

The new Downtown Spokane Mod Pizza is easy to find, facing Main and also right by River Park Square ( 707 W. Main ). It's mostly notably the former home of Madeline's, which relocated a couple of blocks down to the newly renovated 400 block of W. Main.

The Downtown Mod Pizza location will be just like the other local Mod Pizza stores will inside seating and carry out available. It will open for business at 12:00 Noon on Thursday, September 17th .

During the grand opening the first 52 customers will get free pizza. Also, there will be a drawing for free pizza for a year, a retro photo booth and other Mod Pizza related giveaways. But, the big news on this grand opening is 100% of all pizza sales all day will be donated to Big Brothers, Big Sisters of the Inland Northwest.

For more information on Mod Pizza, visit their web site at-

www.modpizza.com


Paint & Pints

The business concept of drinking while being taught to paint is not a new idea for the area with a handful of these businesses already operating. But, what is going to be different about the new Paint & Pints is it will have a bigger focus on beer, with several craft beers and local beers on tap. Premium wines however will still be available.

Paint & Pints also is not far away from River Park Square ( about a block and a half ) at 718 W. Riverside.

Paint & Pints will also open for business next week, with a Grand Opening celebration planned for Thursday Sept. 17th for 4:30 - 8:30 PM .  The grand opening will feature a ribbon cutting and a open bar open house, a great way to check out the new place. Drink specials, free class drawings and huge discount on class bookings will be offered throughout the night.

For more information on Paint & Pints, visit their web site at-

www.paintandpints.com

Or, find them on Facebook at-

www.facebook.com/paintandpints509

Float spa concept comes to Spokane with Float Spokane

The float spa concept is sweeping the nation with new businesses popping up all over to provide customers with this newer, relaxing experience. And now the float spa idea has hit the Spokane area with the recent opening of Float Spokane.

Float Spokane officially opened for business at the beginning of September and can be found easily, not far off of I-90 in Liberty Lake. Their address is 1334 N. Whitman Lane, Liberty Lake,WA 99019. The float spa concept used by Float Spokane is really quite simple, the customer floats, alone inside what they call a Dreampod. The Dreampod is a small capsule like machine that is filled with a high density solution of Epsom salts and 93 degree water. I'm told this concept allows the mind to shut out all stimulation and focus on healing and relaxation.

Promoters of the float spa concept say that regular float sessions can help reduce, even chronic pain conditions like migraines, arthritis , etc... . They say it also boosts the immune system and can improve circulation among other things.

Pricing at Float Spokane is straight forward with single float, packages and memberships available. For example a single float would cost $49 and memberships are anywhere from $110 - $360 a month, memberships do also require a limited 3 month commitment. Online booking for float sessions is also available on the new businesses website.

While Float Spokane is now open for business as the first float spa business in the Spokane area, I have noticed a license for another float spa also coming soon. More on that in the future...

For more information on Float Spokane and to book your float time, visit their web site at-

http://floatspokane.com

New luxury apartments going up by Riverwalk Plaza

Following through with the master plan, a new apartment building is under construction now, adjacent to the Riverwalk Plaza building ( 1003 E. Trent Ave. ) and just east of Downtown Spokane. This new residential component to the site is actually just north of the main building, with the apartments address being 722 N. Superior.

The new apartments are being built by developer Mark Baier, along with Riverwalk co-owners Gavin Swenson and Dave Brig. The new apartment building is relatively large, but will only house six apartments. Additional land is also there for a second apartment building in the future, but that portion of the project is on hold for the time being.

The 8,400 square foot building will house six apartments, all of which considered luxury apartments with patios facing onto the Spokane River. The building will also be close to Gonzaga and all will offer two bedrooms. It's also possible that the apartments in the new building may be converted over to condo's at some point in the future.

Build Smart Northwest is the contractor on the project and the new rental units will likely open sometime during the fall. Leasing will be done by Riverwalk.

Riverwalk Plaza is an historic commercial building located at corner of E. Trent Ave. and N. Columbus St. . It's home to several businesses, perhaps most noteworthy is the building is home to NoLi Brewing Co. brewpub in suite 170 and Dry Fly Distilling in suite 200.

New businesses fill into renovated Globe Building

Located in Downtown Spokane at 204 N. Division ( corner of N. Division and Main ) stands The Globe Building. Originally used as a single occupancy hotel, when it first opened in 1908, it has slowly changed and in recent years fallen in grandeur with no tenants on upper levels and a large vacancy in the ground floor retail / restaurant spaces.

But, things are changing for The Globe as an investment group called Globe Partners LLC acquired the building a few months ago and has been working on renovating and restoring the building ever since. That big vacancy on the ground floor has been filled with a new bar and restaurant called Globe Bar & Kitchen using a name similar to the last business there.

But, the new Globe Bar & Kitchen isn't all that's new at The Globe Building, here is who else is moving in-

Pawn 1

The pawn shop chain Pawn 1 has leased a little more then 4,000 square feet of space on the second floor. The company plans to use this space as a new corporate headquarters , moving here from a smaller office on the South Hill.

Spokane Barre

Spokane Barre actually just opened this month in a 1,300 square foot space on the third floor of The Globe Building. Spokane Barre is a fitness studio that features classes in yoga, dance and more.

Russell C. Page Architects PS

Technically moving into the Globe Building back in February is the new offices of Russell C. Page Architects PS. They are also one of the architects working on this redevelopment project.


The ground floor of The Globe remains home to a bar / nightclub called Blind Buck and a salon called Wink A Salon. These business will remain in the current locations, both facing Division.

More office space remains available in the building on the upper floors which is now available for lease. The space will be a full service lease with a lease rate that has yet to be determined. On site parking and building signage are also available to new tenants of The Globe.

Leasing at The Globe Building is being done by Hawkins Edwards of Spokane. More information about the Globe Building can be found on their website at-

http://www.hawkinsedwardsinc.com

Native Grill & Wings coming to Coeur d' Alene

It's been speculated that the Native Grill & Wings restaurant chain was planning to open a location in Coeur d' Alene. And, now we have confirmed that they are coming straight from the company's corporate offices. However, don't expect them to open here for some time.

That's because, the company rep. explains that they are still in the planning progress. The restaurant will be a franchised location and will likely be built off of Appleway just south of Winco. The rep. says they have a six month time frame to open, so perhaps opening in the Spring (?). Some construction work has already occurred on the currently vacant site with what looks like a parking lot or small street going in. Native Grill & Wings will be joined by a Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and possibly a Cracker Barrel Restaurant all on the same block in the near future.

Native Grill & Wings is a growing chain of restaurants with their main focus being on chicken wings. They are an Arizona based company that began as Native New Yorker Restaurant , until a name change and rebranding just last year. Currently they operate locations in three US states and the menu changes a bit by region but is still mostly wings, burgers, pizza, sandwiches and more. Cold beer is available on tap as are several specialty wing sauces.

 

The new Coeur d' Alene Native Grill & Wings location will be the only location in the area as none are planned for Spokane at this point in time. The building size and amount of new jobs created has not yet been released as of this posting time.

 

For more information about Native Grill & Wings, including job and menu information, visit their website at-

 

http://nativegrillandwings.com

AMC renovating it's River Park Square movie theater

Renovations are coming to the AMC River Park Square Theatre over the coming months. But, since " the show must go on " the theatres will remain open during the work with only occasional minor inconveniences to customers.

And, once complete, customers will have one very cool new feature to watch their favorite flicks in, recliners. The plan calls for replacing the seating in the theatres with new plush power recliners with larger arm rests and still with cup holders.

While the new seating will be nice, it's not all that is in the works for the newly renovated River Park Square AMC. New theatre screens will be added along with sound system upgrades. Fresh paint and carpet will be placed throughout the facility and restrooms will also be renovated. The remodel will be done " floor by floor" with an estimated completion coming around December.

Even the concession stands will be changing a bit, with some new " enhanced " menu items.

The River Park Square AMC Theatre is a 20 screen movie theater located on the fourth and fifth floors of River Park Square ( box office on third floor ). It is also home to an IMAX theatre playing all of the latest hit movies. This is the only AMC Theatre location in our area, as the majority are either Regal Cinemas or locally owned.

For more information on AMC Theatres, including movie show times at River Park Square visit their website at-

https://www.amctheatres.com/

New retail center planned in Coeur d' Alene

The new Winco Foods grocery store at the corner of Appleway and Ramsey Rd. looks to be acting as a bit of catalyst for new development in their part of the City of Coeur d' Alene. While much of Winco's attached retail center ( Crossroads at Coeur d' Alene ) remains empty the area around it is starting to change. A new apartment complex is now open next door and some sort of new development with restaurants is breaking ground on Lee Ct. just feet south of the store.

But, now another new development is being tossed in the mix as signs have went up for another new retail strip mall only a couple of blocks east of the Winco / Crossroads site. The new shopping center is relatively small and has no official name as of yet. But, it will occupy a site that has been vacant for sometime. The new center will go in-between the Top of China Buffet and Carpet One on Appleway, here is a look at the site-

The new shopping center has no tenants lined up as of right now, but based on successes at some other area developments it likely will gain some as the marketing process goes on. Leasing / marketing of the center is being done by Clark Pacific Real Estate of Spokane and information can be found on their website at http://www.clarkpacific.net

Spaces in the new center are open to most any kind of business- retail, restaurant or service and all spaces are similar in size and are all inline. The middle space will be the largest with 1,960 square feet and all others in the 1,750 square foot range. The marketing flyer also shows a drive through option on the end cap space.

Inline space is leasing for $19 per square foot NNN and end cap space is only a little higher at $22 per square foot NNN . The property boasts over 200 feet of frontage on Appleway and will likely also include some sort of signage for it's tenants.

Keep watching for more on tenants opening here,etc...

Business News Blips - Sept. 8th 2015

Every now and then I get new businesses and local business news topics that for one reason or another don't quite add up to a full independent post on this site. These are those news items I have right now-

Frizzle Fries opens in Midtown Coeur d' Alene

A new food truck called Frizzle Fries has opened for business in Coeur d' Alene's Midtown neighborhood. Frizzle Fries, as the name implies serves many different types of French Fries with several different types of gourmet toppings and sauces.

Frizzle Fries is a small trailer location in the parking lot of Castaway Fly Fishing Shop at 1114 N. 4th in Coeur d' Alene.

New GNC store to open in North Spokane

A new locally owned franchise of GNC Live Well supplement / sports medicine stores has opened for business in Northwest Spokane's Five Mile Plaza Shopping Center.

The new store will occupy 1,200 square feet of space and is only one installment for the rapidly expanding chain locally. Another GNC, from the same franchisee just opened last Summer at 509 N. Sullivan Rd. in Spokane Valley, and locations in Airway Heights and Downtown Spokane have also opened over the last few years.

Lamination Technology Industries, Inc. relocates to Spokane Business & Industrial Park

Oregon based Lamination Technology Industries, Inc. has leased 40,000 square feet of space in building 29 of Spokane Valley's Spokane Business & Industrial Park and plans to relocate their local operations there from their current location Liberty Lake.

Lamination Technology Industries, Inc.'s primary business is the lamination of decorative overlaid panels and components.

Kalispel Tribe of Indians new Chevron opens this weekend

Looking for a good deal on gas this Labor Day weekend?  Well, you may want to make note of the Kalispel Tribe of Indians new Chevron gas station in Airway Heights.  The Kalispel Tribe already operates Chevron at Legacy Landing, adjacent to Northern Quest Resort & Casino but will now also include this station in their growing list of local properties.

The new gas station, will also be branded with Chevron gas and offer a on site convenience store. This new station however will be a little further down, this time located on the western edge of the City of Airway Heights. It was built on land already owned by the tribe near the corner of US 2 and Lyons Rd.

The new tribal owned Chevron will open for business tomorrow ( Friday, Sept 4th ) . Here is what to expect for the grand opening weekend-

- New station will open Friday at 5:00 AM

- In celebration of the opening both this station, and Chevron at Legacy Landing will offer 15 cents off gas with use of a Camas Rewards Card. This extra discount will only be offered Sept. 4th - 7th.

- A free grand opening BBQ will be held from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM on Saturday, the 5th.

Claustropanic opens in North Spokane

A new escape room business called Claustropanic is now open in North Spokane after having a grand opening in the middle of August. The new business is locally owned and operated and can be easily found at 1325 E. Francis Ave.

At Claustropanic, you and your group of up to 8 are locked into a themed room and must figure out how to escape using clues, riddles, puzzles and codes. Each group gets 60 minutes to escape from the themed room and there are 3 themed rooms available. The rooms include a kidnapping/ torture room , crime scene room and the Asylum . The cost is $20 per room and is great idea for date nights, friends and family, company / group teambuilding and really any special occasion.

Claustopanic occupies 2600 square feet and they also have a party / group meeting room available for booking. As of now they are only open of Friday, Saturday and Sunday and more information about booking time in the escape rooms can be found on their website-

http://claustropanic.com/

Also, find them on Facebook at-

http://www.facebook.com/claustropanic

Fleur De Sel Artisan Creperie opening soon in Spokane

Patricia & Laurent Zirotti , owners of the upscale Fleur De Sel French restaurant in Post Falls are branching out to Spokane. But, instead of expanding with a second location, they have created a new quick casual style crepe restaurant concept that they hope to launch soon on the Lower South Hill.

The new restaurant will go by the name, Fleur De Sel Artisan Creperie .  This new crepe business will occupy a space at 909 S. Grand Blvd, nearby Sacred Heart Hospital and only a short drive south of Downtown Spokane.

Fleur De Sel Artisan Creperie is tentatively scheduled to open around the end of October or early November, with work underway now. The new place will be managed by Harry Crase, a long time employee of Fleur De Sel.

 

 

Fleur De Sel Artisan Creperie will have a menu of many different types of crepes for most any taste.  Both sweet and savory crepes will be available with the following examples given: Savory crepes, like chicken and truffle or a steelhead trout crepe. And, for sweet crepes, lemon curd and salted caramel.

 

The new restaurant's main focus will be on breakfast and lunch with hours of operation planned to be 8 - 5 Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday to start.

 

For more information on Fleur De Sel Artisan Creperie, find them on Facebook at-

 

https://www.facebook.com/fdscreperie