January 26, 2012 Watch
Happy Days
The recent observance of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Junior marks a changing of the guard in the Spokane area celebration of the civil rights icon. The Reverend Percy H. Watkins announced he is stepping down to make way for a new generation of leaders. Take a look back at the career of one of the Inland Northwest's "Happiest" leaders.
Troll Story
In 2009, 82 year old Arvid Kristoffersen was voted #2 among the ten best fairy tale artists in Norway. It was quite an honor for this artist given he lives in Northwest Montana. Born and raised in Norway Arvid came to the United States in 1952 after establishing himself in Norway as an outstanding fairy tale illustrator and wood carver. What was intended to be a two year stay abroad turned out to be a lifetime in his adopted home of Kalispell. From there we take a look at the career of this prolific artist who not only introduced the troll to Big Sky Country but whose artistry, much of it celebrating his Norwegian Heritage, can be found in 40 states as well as some 9 countries around the world.
Kindrie Grove “Creative Self-Expression”
Penticton BC artist Kindrie Grove has an eye for art with a unique flavor, and shares it with others through her work and through her instruction.
Guitar Stars
Discover world class music and scenery at the annual Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival, held at Flathead Lake Lodge near Bigfork, Montana. Enjoy performances and insights from big name guitarists Joe Bonamassa (blues), Lee Ritenour (jazz) and Steve Lukather(studio musician, lead guitarist for Toto), as well as new guitar masters Corneille Hutten-Burger and Leon Gropp of South Africa, and David Browne-Murray of Ireland. Experience the best in guitar music, from on-stage power jams to acoustic tunes by the lake.
December 1, 2011 Watch
That’s All Folk
Celebrate a kaleidoscope of cultures at the Spokane Fall Folk Festival. A mosaic of traditional music, dance and art, this annual event showcases the diverse local folk arts community.
Women Warriors
The face of the military has changed. More and more women are seeing combat oversees. When these vets return they are finding the transition back to civilian life can be tough. See how these women warriors are getting help, cowgirl style, as they escape to the country for a weekend of food, fellowship and much more.
Painting With Fire
Travel to Coeur d’ Alene Idaho and meet Mike Schneider a “metal artist” who melds grinding and heating techniques with his imagination to create jaw dropping three dimensional art forms. Mike Schneider Metal Art
Blackfoot Crossing
Northwest Profiles visits Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. Located an hour east of Calgary, Alberta Blackfoot Crossing takes visitors back in time to experience First Nation cultures which used to inhabit this land.
October 27, 2011 Watch
Enjoy the Premiere of our 25th Season!
Bountiful Baskets
Basketry fiber artist Barbara Kingsland has been creating baskets in Harrop British Columbia for nearly 30 years. Barbara and her husband Terry work together collecting pine needles and cedar bark that are used in creating beautiful works of art. Art that is solid and functional.
Chinese Remembering
Travel up Idaho’s Snake River to visit a compelling historical site. In 1887, more than thirty Chinese miners were murdered for their gold. Now, a group of historians are working to keep the massacre from being forgotten with an annual event called “Chinese Remembering,” which includes lectures and presentations, and a day long jet boat trip to the site of the massacre to conduct a Chinese healing ceremony.
Hot Spot
Step into the backyard of retired firefighter Ray Kresek for a fascinating look at the world of wildfire prevention. Ray’s non-profit Fire Lookout Museum in Spokane, Washington, is home to over 19,000 fire related relics; from lookout towers and vintage fire tools to a 1953 Chevy pumper fire truck. Plus the museum holds possibly the world’s largest collection of Smokey Bear treasures.
Riding the Rails
Climb aboard the Kettle Valley Steam Railway in Summerland B.C. for a trip through the beautiful Okanagan countryside and into the past. Built between 1910 and 1915, the KVR took BC's fruit industry to world markets until it closed in 1989. Today, the KVR operates as a heritage railway offering passengers a chance to not only enjoy scenic views but experience the antics of "Old West" train robbers too.
May 26, 2011 Watch
Mudgy & Millie
Author Susan Nipp has created a children's book in which Mudgy Moose and Millie Mouse play hide & seek in downtown Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. But Susan didn't stop with the book. She hired wildlife artist Terry Lee to create bronze sculptures of Mudgy and Millie, and install them in five different spots in the lakeside city. Susan and Terry share their creative inspirations and processes of bringing Mudgy and Millie to life.
Wee Sing
Terry Lee Art
Mechanical Time
David Stillman knows what it takes to make a clock keep it's beat. Hailing from a family that is tied to the clock making business, David took to the trade and staked out a claim by working on local public clocks becoming one of Spokane's go-to people whenever one needs some repair.
LaVigne Revelation
Artist James Francis LaVigne loves Spokane. And he's got the pictures to prove it. Since the early 70s, this Lilac City native has been capturing the romantic side of Spokane's most beloved landmarks.
Dancing with the Dogs
For the last decade the dancing dog troupe known as the Ruff Revue has been entertaining and delighting audiences at retirement centers, care facilities and at various community events throughout Spokane. Their purpose is to strengthen the bond between humans and animals by sharing their dogs with those who can no longer own a pet. Meet the talented performers and find out what it takes to be a dancing dog. Ruff Revue
April 28 2011 Watch
Saving Salish – A Language Revival
Near Usk, Washington on the Kalispel Reservation tribal members young and old are part of a language revival. They are bringing back the Salish language from the brink of extinction. See how the tribe is saving Salish and in the process reconnecting with its past. Modern Mukogawa
Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute in Spokane is 20 years strong. It provides opportunities for female students from Japan to live and study in Spokane, enjoy home stays with area families, and tour businesses and schools in the student's area of interest. Deep personal connections are forged for both the students and Spokane area residents. KSPS profiles the history, cultural and economic benefits of Mukogawa, and personal reflections from students.
A Penny for Your Puppets
Being a professional puppeteer fits Penny Walter like a glove. Or a hand puppet. Since 2002, Penny’s Puppet Productions (a one woman puppet company) has performed thousands of live shows around the Pacific Northwest. See why delighted audiences are applauding Penny and her prize-winning performances.
February 2011 Watch
The Wandering Table
A Spokane chef is turning dining out into a whole new experience, taking his cooking skills on the road to create one of a kind cuisine. We’re in the kitchen with the crew of The Wandering Table, where the meal and location are kept secret from diners until the last minute.
Creating Keepers
Discover the artistry of Chip Phillips a man driven to excellence both as a musician and a digital photographer. In the world of music Chip’s specialty is the clarinet, not only as the principle clarinetist for the Spokane Symphony but as a professor of clarinet at Gonzaga University. Meantime, in the world of digital photography Chip’s specialty is photographing landscapes. An avid outdoorsman, Chip’s award winning photography has been featured in photo magazines and can be found both on line and at local photo galleries.
In The Moo'd
Visit Spokane’s Family Farm to see how this small dairy is making a big splash in the milk business. It’s a special place where the phrase “farm-fresh” is an udder-statement.
For the Love of Quilts
Suzi Hokonson, a self-described textile artist, folk historian and political social justice activist, loves quilting. She uses her expertise teaching others about the craft, from creation to display, while spreading her love of quilting to anyone who has a desire to learn. learn more
January 2011 Watch
Wild Horse IslandVisit one of the largest islands in North America, in the middle of the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. On Flathead Lake in northwest Montana, Wild Horse Island is a primitive state park that offers visitors miles of hiking trails and views of incredible wildlife including bald eagles and Big Horn sheep. learn more
Teaching Creativity-Illustrator Jack Rogers
Long time Spokane area illustrator and artist Jack Rogers gives to others what he has learned over this many years in the commercial art world. Jack stays vibrant touching young and old alike "to learn imagination".
Piano Prodigy Val Wold
A 12 year old piano virtuoso living in Post Falls Idaho, Val Wold is beginning a career in music including 2 CD's and numerous concerts.
Rock Around the Block
The historic stone walls of Trail, B.C. were built mostly by Italian immigrants between 1920 and 1960. These rustic retaining walls on Trails rolling terrain gives this Kootenay mountain town a uniquely European essence.
December 2010 Watch
Riverwood
Herron Montana is the home of Dale and Monica archer, a husband-and-wife artistic team that use driftwood to create Montana-based caricatures, ones that often elicit a chuckle or two.
One World Spokane
One World Spokane is a café that offers high quality, locally grown food, along with a community minded attitude. Meals are available for suggested donations. No one is turned away. If a patron cannot afford to pay for their meal, they can volunteer their time as payment.
One World also offers classes in economic, health conscious cooking, as well as gardening, composting, beekeeping and more.
Extra Special Elves
Step into a workshop of talented toymakers not from the North Pole but from right here in Spokane. They are the Rockwood Elves and their mission is to help make Christmas merry for some very special children.
Eyes On Eagles
Like the swallows of Capistrano, bald eagles descend on North Idaho year after year. The majestic birds draw crowds of eager onlookers during their brief winter visit to the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene.
October 2010 Watch
WASPsThese World War II pilots were young, daring…and female. They were the WASPs — Women Airforce Service Pilots.
Spokane Highland Games
Celebrate all things Scottish every year, with everything from Highland dance, bagpipe and drumming exhibitions to heavy athletic competitions and more.
Drawn to the Wall IV
A unique invitational art exhibit that tests the creative skills and fortitude of five well-known area artists, including: Michael Horwsill; Lousie Kodis; Ken Spiering; Carolyn Stephens; and Gordon Wilson.
Fairest of the Fowl
Idaho artist Frank Werner specializes in carving and painting exquisitely-detailed wooden decoys.
May 2010 Watch
Big Band TheoryBob Curnow, composer/arranger and publisher of big band jazz lives in the northwest. Ever since his early teens, Bob has written and arranged jazz tunes for he and his friends to play. While still a teenager, Bob met his idol Stan Kenton and became a trombonist in the Stan Kenton Orchestra. Through the years, Bob has worked with jazz greats like Maynard Fergusson, Woody Herman and Pat Metheny. He currently publishes jazz sheet music and directs the Bob Curnow Big Band.
Line by LineCelebrate the golden anniversary of the Etch-A-Sketch with a trip to Kalispel, Montana where you’ll meet a premier Etch-A-Sketch artist Pauline Graziano. Since 2000 Pauline has been creating incredible Etch-A-Sketch images. In 2005 she was recognized by Ohio Art, the maker of Etch-A-Sketch, as one of their official Etch-A-Sketch artist. To commemorate this year’s 50th anniversary of the Etch-A-Sketch Pauline has committed to creating 50 sketches in 52 weeks with a portion of the projects proceeds going to one of her favorite charities – Hanna’s Dream. An organization that donates art supplies to needy children around the world.
Father’s Day turns one-hundred years old this year. This national holiday has special significance in Spokane because it was invented here! That’s right, the first Father’s Day was celebrated in Spokane in 1910. The story has rarely been told in recent years so we thought we would share it with you here.
Many people look at pets as important members of the family. But what happens when a loyal companion begins to lose its sight or goes blind? You’ll see as Dr. Bill Yakely shares insights on his ocular occupation.
April 2010 Watch
Fowl Ball Join a migration celebration at the Sandhill Crane Festival in Othello, Washington. The Othello area is a major stopover for some 35,000 cranes migrating between California and Alaska. Since 1998, flocks of visitors have been coming here for this 3 day wingding.Criminal History
Deer Lodge, Montana boasts more museums and historical collections per capita than any other town in the northwest. Visit The Old Montana Prison dates back to the days of General George Custer and Ulysses S. Grant. The Montana Auto Museum has been voted by USA Today as one of the top ten must-see car museums in the U.S. Northwest Profiles visits these and other fascinating stops at the Old Prison Museum complex.
River's Wish Animal Sanctuary, is a non-profit 501c-3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescuing of animals in need. They provide shelter and care to rabbits primarily while also offering sanctuary to dogs, cats, goats, horses, sheep and pigs. Their goal is to provide them with permanent and loving homes.
Discover the creative world of “Alternative Photography,” through the artistry of Kay Langland, a Missoula, Montana photo artist whose work merges her love of photography with her passion for metal work.
February 2010 Watch...
Special KayAt 61, Kay LeClaire is the oldest woman to summit the highest peak on each of the Seven Continents. Meet this mountaineering marvel from Spokane as she shares her insights on commitment, endurance, teamwork and hope.
Lord of the Strings
Enter the world of the Bow Maker. Bow making has been around since the mid 1700’s. Today the traditions of this century’s old craft are being carried on by craftsmen like Morgan Andersen. For thirty years Morgan Andersen has been building quality hand made bows that have won him awards and recognition from his peers as one of the leading bow makers in the country.
The Beat Goes On
The northwest is home to classic rock stars that are still actively making music. Meet Donny York, cofounder of ShaNaNa, Larry Ramos who cofounded the 1960’s folk group The New Christy Minstrels and later joined 60’s supergroup The Association, and Jordan Cole currently of The Association (Jordan’s father Brian cofounded the group). Hear their firsthand accounts of commanding the rock scene from the 60’s through today.
Redemptive Iron Man
Back from the war in Iraq, and wracked with PTSD, Greg Ridgley found a way to cope with his troubles with the help of the Veterans administration and his faith. Combining his desire to write and his love of metal work, he has found a way to deal with his condition and is on a quest to help others that are afflicted.
January 2010 Watch...
Challenging VisionExploreFor Kennewick Washington machinist Bernie Vinther, the sky is not the limit, its the starting point. Considering his challenge with blindness since the age of 38, this 65 year old is proficient in a job where accuracy is the name of the game.
First Telephone in Spokane
When the very first telephone was installed in Spokane, it ignited a technological revolution that still reverberates today. Northwest Profiles meets Spokane author Dean Ladd, whose grandfather installed Spokane's first telephone.
Ghost Town Gold
Explore a rare piece of American West History with a visit to Bannack Montana, an authentic, well preserved Ghost Town. Located in Bannack State Park just south of Dillon, Montana, Bannack is a former gold rush town that was founded in 1862.
Willie's WayWillie Harms has a fever for Ford’s and has spent a lifetime bringing vintage Model A’s back to life. Join this guru in his garage for an unforgettable story of passion and perseverance. It’s a ride you don’t want to miss.
November 2009 - Watch...
Indelible Indians
Tribal traditions, stories and legends leap from the ledger paintings of Spokane Indian artist George Flett. Watch...
Old Works
Discover the amazing history surrounding the first golf course ever built on an EPA superfund site. Opened in 1997 in Anaconda Montana, Old Works is a Jack Nicklaus signature Golf Coarse that, through design, provides golfers of all skill levels a playing experience like no other. Watch...
Braided Rawhide
Take a trip with us to Baker Idaho, about 9 miles south of Salmon and meet cowboy artist Jeff Minor, a man that is able to take strands of leather and form them into unique functional western art. Watch...
Just Making It
Visit Jim Croft and Melody Eckroth, who live in the forested hills above Santa, Idaho. Jim and Melody produce old world, handcrafted items, including books for which they make their own paper, thread, leather and hand tooled wooden covers. The couple also produces beautiful hand woven baskets, hats and clothing. Mostly, Jim and Melody use materials found or grown near their forest home. They also make music on piano, accordion and trombone. Watch...
October 2009 - Watch...
Wheeled WarriorsThe National Veterans Wheelchair Games provided lots of action, competition and community during the summer of 2009 in Spokane. Experience the success stories of the athletes and of the city that hosted them. Watch...
The Portrait of 50 Vets
What began as a chance to volunteer for a few hours grew into an emotional journey for 50 area vets and the man who painted their portraits. Hear from Spokane artist John Thamm who set up an easel in the waiting room of the VA not knowing it would lead to a showing at the hospital and eventually a book. Veterans from all branches of the military share their stories and it’s all because one man took the time to simply stop and listen. Watch...
Crown of the Continent
Travel deep into the heart of the Rocky Mountains to celebrate an enduring monument to goodwill between Canada and the United States. Since 1932, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park has been the jewel in a remarkable region known as the "Crown of the Continent." Watch...
