Shop local, shop local — here at the Inlander we preach it all year long. But that's because we make some great stuff in the Inland Northwest, and it's more than just stuff if it comes with a story and a connection to the community. For people who appreciate what we've got in this little corner of the world, a local gift combines the charm of something you made yourself with the quality of something made by an actual professional.
"TRANSCEND THE BULLSHIT" MUG
One of Spokane's best open secrets is that if you climb to the top of the concrete Harold Balazs tower sculpture in Riverfront Park, "Transcend the bullshit" is inscribed at the very top. It's a necessary sentiment for those days when Spokane feels like one big mess of meth and potholes and stuff getting stolen from your car. You can find a whole variety of items that pay tribute, but the mugs are appropriate — what's closer to daily transcendence than a moment to sit and savor a warm drink? (The pint glasses are appropriate, too.) Tip: Use the Jeers section from the Inlander as wrapping paper. $10 • Boo Radley's • 232 N. Howard
GONZAGA BASKETBALL T-SHIRT
Nothing brings out local pride more than sports. Zome Design, based in Spokane Valley, makes an array of screen-printed and embroidered fan apparel for pretty much every college team in the region, plus Spokane Shock jerseys and more. Every casual sports fan in Spokane should be prepared for this season's bandwagon with at least one Gonzaga basketball T-shirt. $20 • Sport Town • 511 W. Main • estoresbyzome.com
THE GREAT PNW BEANIE
Last year, Spokane's Joel and Tori Barbour decided to make the clothing that represents our corner of the country, and their Kickstarter campaign brought in more than three times the original goal. The hip, understated line of shirts, hoodies, hats and more look right at home in the Northwest, whether that's out on the ski hills or hiking through downtown. In multiple colors, the "Shoreline" beanie from the fall collection is quintessential Northwest headwear. $18 • shop.thegreatpnw.com
SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER COFFEE
This year a slew of big-city food publications have discovered there's excellent coffee being made in Idaho, of all places, at Doma Coffee Roasting Company in Post Falls. Other local roasters are doing great work, too — also try the Working Elf's Blend from Roast House — but Doma really outdid themselves this year for the annual Santa's Little Helper with detailed six-color letterpress art by Spokane artist Chris Dreyer. $15 • Pilgrim's Market • 1316 N. 4th St., CdA
NO-LI IMPERIAL FOUR-PACK
The brewery formerly known as Northern Lights steadily has been building a presence outside Spokane in far-flung beer havens like Sweden and Washington, D.C. But No-Li's sticking with its hometown — this year, the company even had "Spokane Style" formally recognized as a style of beer made with all-local ingredients. Its attractive new four-packs are a milestone in portability and shareability, making it the perfect ready-made casual gift. $10.30 • Rosauers • multiple locations
MT. SPOKANE PRINT
The first one was Mt. Spokane, which he sees every day on his way to work. Then came Grand Coulee Dam, Finch Arboretum and Ming Wah Restaurant. These stylish regional landmark prints are the work of Chris Bovey, who also has a full-time job as art director here at the Inlander. (We have no idea how he has the time.) Wear your love of the region on your walls, or send one to someone who no longer lives here. $20 • Atticus Coffee & Gifts • 222 N. Howard ♦
