People – Venue Magazine Online

Let’s get personal…

by Diva for a Day…Spa

There is nothing more beautiful than seeing skin glowing naturally through beautifully applied makeup especially during the holiday season. Youngblood Mineral makeup is absolutely so wonderful! It goes on smoothly, covering flaws and imperfections. The eye color is gorgeous and the lip gloss divine and kissable. There’s one more thing that will make your look even more glamorous and that is…

THE NEW INCREDIBLE WEAR GEL LINER! They’ve re-created a classic and given it a modern attitude! The new gel liner is foolproof and easy to use making it simple for every woman to create her own makeup masterpiece. The five intensely colored, long-wearing shades glide on smoothly like a liquid liner with the precision of an eye pencil. I’m anxious for you to try it and love it!

Also this season, LASH EXTENSIONS are back! Complete your holiday look with luscious long lashes. They look so natural and stay on for weeks. What more could a girl want? Well…maybe a Gift Card for Youngblood Mineral makeup or a treatment at the spa is what she’ll want under the tree or in her stocking…

Happy Holidays!

Filed Under: People, Uncategorized

Tony St. Onge: Swimming in the Deep End

Every human starts life as a swimmer; roughly nine months later that life emerges from a fluid filled cocoon of comfort into the stark realities and uncertainty of the outside world. From that point on, for however many years each are given, most lives will be back in contact with swimming whether by choice or through an unplanned chain of occurrences.

Let’s face it, whether you live in the central Sahara desert or a lake community like Moses, it is a globally accepted fact supported by space photos that over 70%percent of the earth’s surface is covered in water. This does not even take into account the artificially formed bodies of liquid; bathtubs, swimming pools, irrigation canals and fountains to name a few. It behooves us then as land based animals to have at least a rudimentary grasp of the dynamics of water, if not developing
an outright love for the life aquatic.

That is where one Anthony St. Onge jumps in… heart first. For Tony, swimming is his life’s passion, and not just as a coach that fosters winning teams, exceptional athletes, state champions or record holders. There has indeed been his share of each in the 30 plus years of coaching, but don’t ask him to quote ‘stats’ as he does not like to keep score. His deepest joy and fulfillment come from seeing any person, young or old, take on the challenge to learn and enjoy the ‘art’ of swimming.

Growing up in the Kelso/Longview vicinity of our fair state, as a teenager St. Onge played and excelled in most sports. At the same time, Tony always loved the water, and at one time dreamed of becoming the next Jacques Yves Cousteau. In his junior year St. Onge started to look at swimming as his main focus, which lead to his training and competing in Moses Lake in the mid 70’s. Back at that time Moses Lake had one of the best facilities around the state, and here he met and made friends that continued to have an impact on his life years later, and taught him the meaning of true friendship.

St. Onge went on to attend Central Washington University along with a number of his buddies, and there he met his wife of over 33 years, Jill, who continues to share his life and passions. After a ‘game changer’ in Alaska, it was his friends and contacts in Moses Lake that saw an opportunity to tap into St. Onge’s talent and in return help him out. Offering him a position in 1977 to coach the successful Manta Rays city swim team, which he did for 23 years, has led to a colorful history of his successes. Today he serves as coach of both the high school boys and girls swim teams, as well as fulfilling the added responsibilities of Pool Manager at Moses Lake High.

For almost a decade now St. Onge has championed a program that sees every 5th grade student in the MLSD attend a two week swimming class at the high school. For many children, especially those with a fear of water, this may be their first contact with any structured training. “At this age,” says St. Onge, “there is a positive peer pressure that works with these group dynamics as the youths begin to see the fun that is involved in swimming with their friends.”

Swimming can be and usually is a lifetime activity, and while it plays an important part in the MLSD athletic system and community sports, there should be a nobler goal to a student’s involvement in any sport other than to simply excel. To be a part of a team, to learn a discipline and challenge one’s own drive and abilities against themselves, is what St. Onge believes can foster a lifetime of positive results.

Tony gives great credit to current High School Athletic Director, Loren Sandhop, who agrees school sports activities should be more than just running, hitting, kicking, or throwing some variety of a ball.

With recent changes in scholastic rules and also feeling spread fairly thin, St. Onge has chosen to now serve on the board of directors for the Manta Rays and focus more on coaching the high school teams. It was a big decision and change for him, but a great new head coach was found and St. Onge feels his work has been accomplished. His main concern is what is in the best interests of the community and the students in his care.

St. Onge and his talented staff also keep a close, mutually beneficial relationship with the city’s Aquatic Center staff. Through the high schools lifeguard/water safety classes, dozens of students each year learn valuable life saving skills and then earn a paycheck by working summers at the highly successful aquatic center. In the opinion of St. Onge, swimming is a cure all; cures anything, especially drowning. In most water related fatalities, it is the fear and panic of not knowing how to deal with the situation that ultimately kills, not the fact that water is involved.

Learning the joys and benefits of swimming can be a positive ‘life changer’ for many, and is another reason why St. Onge is so passionate about the sport; and St. Onge knows a thing or two about life changes from back when he was only 22 years old. A brand new job, a new wife; his future spread open before him, a snowy night trip across an Alaskan pass with friends, black ice….falling, rolling … blackness …a life change in a blink of an eye.

St. Onge says he never felt like saying, “Oh poor me, oh my life is over, my future is bleak”. Instead he saw an opportunity to face a new set of challenges, and make the best of life as he still had it so much better than many others; quadriplegic, brain dead…or not living all together. “Life is what you make it!” And swimming for Tony St. Onge makes life complete; for him and for the thousands of students he has trained, encouraged, inspired, and challenged over the last 34 years.

Still challenging himself on a daily basis, St. Onge states that nothing has really been taken away from him that he has not found a way to achieve or work around through other methods. He regularly swims to physically work his mind and body to develop them to their fullest potential, relishing the freedom, relief, and deep connection that immersion into this watery realm continues to give him.

Tony hopes that he can continue to be a positive influence in all of his ‘students’ lives, and that they gain something valuable from his coaching and instruction. There are basic core principals he strives to instill in each student, but feels that more importantly all simply need to participate; participating is the journey. Having lived his entire life in the ‘swimming world’, St. Onge appreciates that it really all comes down to such a simple equation; the swimmer, the water, and sometimes the clock. St. Onge honestly feels that swimming is a way to engage and involve the mind, the body, the spirit; it develops an internal drive to push one’s self further, and to explore the true depth of one’s very existence.

Filed Under: Current Issue, People

Behind the Scenes

David Curnel, MD and Pamela (Cassiano) Curnel

Pamela Curnel is never not beaming. Her smile is constant and genuine, her personality is approachable, and she exudes creativity. Her zest for life is as ‘caliente’ as the Tabasco sauce she puts on everything she eats.

“My wife has two speeds…100 miles an hour and off,” says David Curnel, MD, when asked how he would describe his wife of 26 ½ years.

Three days after Pamela Curnel was crowned Mrs. Washington 1993, she was asked to take on the position as State Pageant Director. Her response? “If you need help, I will help you.”

Eighteen years later the responsibility of being the Mrs. Washington America Directors/Producers remains in the hand and teamwork tutelage of Dr. and Mrs. David Curnel.

Pamela’s delightful attitude gives energy to mentoring of other women. In a world of immaculate image maintenance, it’s a rare trait to look beyond the physical beauty and learn the real person. People are strangers until they share their story; Pamela listens.

“She is interested in their lives,” her husband says. “They become like a part of our own family. We care about their husbands, their children, their life outside of the pageant system.”

It is easy to say Pamela’s sense of fulfillment as a director is neither transitory nor superficial, but stable and healthy. “I enjoy the whole process,” Pamela says. “Being a director has meant a profound opportunity to meet women from different walks of life, whose narrative, life experiences and calling is unique and important. And above and beyond everyone’s expectation, she reaches into those lives and offers friendship, skills, and self-confidence to mobilize the likes of them to rise up and reach their individual goals.

Pamela Curnel

One wonders how is it possible for someone like Pamela to work so hard, yet be in such a sound (and, from all observances, happy) state of mind? She has help. Her husband defers to Pamela’s obvious advantage in setting the pace, yet enjoys his involvement in her passion of expressing her creativity and love for people. So, as co-director…co-producer…host…master of ceremonies…stage prop person…script proof reader…teamwork coordinator…errand boy…loving husband…father…grandfather…and…friend…he takes on his part, willingly. “Without his support, I wouldn’t have the energy or stamina to do what I do every day,” says Pamela.

Pamela has the support of additional family members as well. Directing a pageant is not all fun and fluff, it is hard work, and delegation is key. Pamela’s brother is stage manager, another brother and sister-in-law do the tickets, and her daughter Melissa is her assistant. “We all work hard together,” Pamela states. With a solid stance on family values, (you will often see Pamela ensconced with her oh-so-cute grandson, David Joseph), it is not a surprise.

It is also not surprising to become enveloped in the devotion and admiration this couple have for each other; refreshing in this day of questionable and/or compromising relationships. How do they do it?

“We have a 50/50 proposition,” laughs Dr. Curnel when asked why he thinks they have such a connected marriage. “She gives out the orders and I carry them out.” Pamela’s eyes shining, she smiles and laughingly says, “I let him talk, then I come in like a shark. It is OK to disagree, but only before he carries out the chore.”

Pamela goes on to tell why she so adores her husband and why is he is her sole (and soul) focus.

“My husband is honest, I respect him, and he knows everything! If I have a question, I just ask him and he has the answer. I love that about him.”

David runs the Boston Marathon, 2004

As a doctor with the Moses Lake Clinic, David has an enormous responsibility in helping others be well. “There are times when I call Pam and tell her I need something.” “I’m on my way!,” “will be her response.” With his also being an Addictionologist, diagnosing and managing patients with addiction disorders, this can mean 24-7 patient care. “They need my husband’s help,” Pamela says with compassion. “I support him in that.”

Nurturing meaningful moments is a chosen priority. “We talk about everything, every day. We still have date nights and hold hands and enjoy doing things together, even the smallest of things.” She adds,

“He is very athletic and is dedicated to being physically fit with a regiment of 3 days weight training, 3 days running, 1 day off. We have corporate teams for the Bloomsday race in Spokane each year and, of course, he runs.”

And run he does, with a finish at the Boston Marathon in 2004, he accomplished what many wish they could. Qualifying by only 12 seconds and running in miserable 93 degree heat, the odds were against him to make it, yet he did. Keeping with his focus on athletics, Dr. Curnel nodded ‘yes’ when asked to be a physician at the state wrestling tournaments. Twenty years later, he was presented with an award for his long-standing dedication and for always being there when needed.

These same qualities carry over in his position on the City Council, and more than likely the reason Dr. Curnel serves on this watch. “It is so different from what I do every day,” says David. “I want to give back to the community. Local issues are important and I want to have some input in how things go, plus I enjoy it.”

David being presented the 20 Year Award for volunteer service by WIAA Executive Director Mike Colbrese

There are two ways of explaining how Pamela and David Curnel accomplish whatever they set their minds and hearts to, and they’re not mutually exclusive; passion with the will to channel it into something that helps other people, and straight-up verve! “We only take on 3 things at a time”, quips Pamela. “Your work should stand for something, and in this way you can be both productive and happy.”

As a ballerina, Pamela has danced her whole life, and her love of dance is inexplicable. Having had her own studio in Rochester, Washington, Pamela has taught ballet, tap, jazz, modern, and performance readiness. Choreography is one of the most creative endeavors you can undertake as a dancer. It allows for freedom of expression while providing a forum to convey a message to the audience. The essential step in choreography is vision of how the dance will look when completed.

For Pamela, whether she is choreographing an upcoming pageant, or the 23 dances for the Moses Lake High School upcoming musical, her vision is clear. “Life is precious and I just want to do more,” shares Pamela. “So, David and I, together, conquer one goal and then come up with another.” Her burgeoning anticipation of winning an Emmy award for her upcoming documentary for television, entitled: ‘Behind the Crown’, drives her forward with a smile.

Having already done so much, their schedule booked with seemingly endless responsibilities, you might assume their motivation has been careening toward a future of some grand, indeterminate personal achievement. You’d be wrong. For despite everything they’ve done and have yet to do, the goal for the Curnels is… to help people.

Filed Under: 2011-09 September 2011, People

Q&A with Kayleen Simpson of Bohemian Roots Photography

VENUE Magazine: How do you describe yourself?

Kayleen Simpson: I would have to say I am a little bit of everything; I am driven but laid back, passionate, sometimes to a fault, and constantly creating new ideas in my head. Mix all of that together with a little kookiness and a lot of love and I am the result. I think of myself as a free spirit that is often out spoken and fiercly loyal to my family and friends.

VM: Why the name Bohemian Roots?

KS: Bohemian Roots is a nod to both my mothers and my own personal style. When I was a child, my mother seemed to have an infatuation with broomstick skirts and dragonfly earrings; patchouli was also a familiar scent in our home. As I got older my mother pushed me to find my own style, she did not want me to conform to the same standards as my peers. After years of second hand shops and antiques stores, I have grown to love things both old and new, which has now carried over to my photography. Bohemian Roots is my way of giving a little praise back to the woman who influenced me the most.

VM: I think of photography as a story being told and the photographer is the author. One image can tell a whole story, carry information and affect the senses of the person who sees it. How do you use your style and identity to communicate in today’s context?

KS: As cliché as it sounds life is a story, the good, bad, and the ugly, my goal is to capture those moments in a way that it reflects the beauty that’s often overlooked. I steer away from the norm because these days almost anyone can emulate that. Today’s society is so embracing of the individual; I just want to take it a step further by being a part of redefining beauty. My style tends to be more “mismatched” … the beauty queen in the junk yard, grandma’s sofa in the middle of a field; it’s not what first comes to mind but it works in a way that you notice the details. Our individual specialty shoots really speak to our strengths as a business. The client is able to have a unique, one of a kind experience, where they play out anything from the delicate and whimsy, to the dark and bizarre. If someone were to call tomorrow and explain that they love unicorns, I am going to find someone with a horse, get out my glitter, and make a horn! A photograph should symbolize a moment, a personality, it should show who you are, not who you were posed to be. I want to celebrate who my clients are presently in their lives, so that when they look back 20 years from now they smile.

VM: A great photo has many facets of energy…the composition, the use of light, color, what’s in the shot, what isn’t, the relationship of the photo to the times, the life circumstances of the photographer, the relationship between the photographer and the photo. What say you?

KS: I say cheers to that!….Every part of our daily lives is based off of some form of relationship, from the workplace, school, and home, how all of that flows together is based on how successful we make those relationships. With photography I have the ability to really play off of the emotions that my clients are experiencing in their lives. I really try to pick up on their vibes and often that’s where my inspiration comes from. Personally, my energy is affected by what’s going on around me; all of the chaos can make me feel the need for a burst of fresh air, photography has become my outlet, my fresh air. VM: Photography seems to be a profession where you have to constantly challenge yourself, re-invent your work and never being satisfied with mediocre. What do you do to get better?

KS: Photography is constantly evolving so I am continuously trying to better myself with education. More importantly though is inspiration, if you have that you’ll find a way to make it work. I am always on the lookout for new locations and I love finding art by local artists on my travels with my husband, I never cease to be inspired by other people’s creativity.

VM: How do you make the subject matter so compelling that the subject overcomes any inperfections in the photography?

KS: It all goes back to the relationship I develop with the client, once they feel that I am not only doing my job in a professional capacity but on a personal level as well I’m able to break down a lot of the comfort barriers. If a client feels comfortable there will always be an amazing photo despite any flaws, I say “be proud of the skin we live in”. I want to provide an experience the makes my clients want to tell their friends as well as keeping me in mind for their next event.

VM: Do you study the works of other photographers? Who inspires you the most? How does it help you to find your own expression?

KS: My biggest inspiration is my mother, Mary Fields who was a local photographer for over 15 years, my childhood was spent watching her capture the memories of others as well as carrying all of her camera equipment for her. Sadly, in 2010 she passed away after a 10 year battle with breast cancer, she continues to be my source of strength and the true voice behind my work. Her invaluable lessons have already guided me to more success than I could have imagined and I continue to feel a powerful link to her when I am using the cameras that were once her own.

VM: Our minds are triggered by images and photography relives adventures and misadventures alike. Every time you take a shot your are making a personal connection to the place and it’s people. You are there. You must have so much fun creating memories for people?

KS: From when I look through my lens, to editing photos, and then handing the final product to my client, each step is so rewarding. I definitely develop an emotional attachment to my clients; I’m celebrating their moments with them, their first kiss as husband and wife, their new born baby, or acting out an idea that has always been in the back of their head. As a photographer and hopefully a friend my job is to make the most of each adventure and capture the mishaps, the beauty, and everything in between.

VM: What is the latest developments with your blossoming business?

KS: The latest addition to Bohemian Roots is my 79’ Volks Wagon Bus! I have aptly named her my “gypsy-mobile” and soon she will have the company logo painted on the side so clients both current and future will see us coming from a mile away! Besides the bus I have also brought on Brandi Walter Engel, who is not only my soul sister but views the world through the same eyes as I do, she is providing much needed help behind the camera and the desk.

Filed Under: 2011-07 July 2011, People

Michael and Jordan Hamilton

A Family Business Where the Business is Family

The Michael’s family, from left to right: Jordan, Melissa, Mikey, Kathy, Chuck, Dana, Mike

It might seem, especially in smaller towns, that a multi-business owning family may be trying to estab- lish a commercial ‘empire’. Empires require Emperors and subjects…yet nothing is further from the truth when looking at the Hamilton’s of Moses Lake. Their busi- nesses include Michael’s on the Lake, Elements, Michael’s Market & Bistro and the adjoining kitchen store and Tempo.

With all the details of overseeing a number of businesses and their involvement in many catering activities, you may wonder if the Hamilton’s ever get time for themselves to pursue hobbies or other interests. Both Michael and Jordan answer yes…though there is never enough time. What they do find time for each week is to still have a sit down, family dinner together, maintaining that this is much more than just a ‘family business’ partnership.

Savvy business folk, yes…but something more is pres- ent that make the Hamilton’s businesses thrive; the people they employ. ‘Employees’ seems to be less than descriptive enough, as the Hamilton’s truly feel that all of their 70+ staff members are more like part of their extended family. A biological family can be diverse and have many differences, but at the end of the day a good family is always there for each other.

All of their talented staff are encouraged to share new ideas and suggest changes, as Mike Hamilton puts it, “Things (in this business) are always changing and you can’t just sit and keep doing the same thing, you need to learn to change quickly and not be afraid”. The changes are evident in tangible ways such as the many diverse menu items that prove they are always looking for excellence, and yet they still retain some of the long standing offerings that make them local favorites.

The giving attitude that the entire Hamilton family has is reflected by the staff at all of their businesses. Generously participating in serving the community for a number of years through such events as the recent Relay for Life, they know that the individuals and families in the community are what make them a success, so you must ‘give back’. They have and continue to support the Moses Lake Cancer Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, Spring Festival, Moses Lake Christian School, and the City Wide Clean Up to mention a few.

Casting the spotlight on just a few of their key staff mebers, it highlights a long and successful history of growth in the Hamilton family’s businesses. “Mikey” started with Michael’s as a 15 year old dishwasher. Through his hard work and decades of dedication, he is now the Assistant General Manager and oversees both the restaurant and bistro.

Chuck had worked for the Hamilton’s many years back at the iconic Moses Lake establishment, Barney Googles, and now has almost 2 decades under his belt. Currently holding the position of Kitchen Manager at Michael’s on the Lake, his quality work is shown every time a plate hits a table.

Dana, (who same may remember from Dana’s Café), has over 35 years of experience in the business both with the Hamilton’s and on her own. Now the Manager at Michael’s Market and Bistro, Mike and Jordan both say her experience and dedication are invaluable. Of note also is Kathy, who worked at Michael’s before the Hamilton’s owned it and even before Mikey, and now serves as Floor Manager help- ing all the service come together so smoothly.

And let’s not forget Melissa, who brings a decade and more of experience working in the kitchen store business from the ‘Home Stretch’, and who now manages the kitchen store located in the bistro. She has added much to their success at the new location.

Mike Hamilton stresses that it is the combination of all the ‘employees’ combined years of experience and constantly bringing new ideas to the table that make all the businesses a success, and hopefully make for a pleasant experience to all patrons, local and visitor alike. More than just a team, more like a ‘functional family’, it is daily striving for excellence in the many minute details by the entire staff that makes this all work.

For everything the Hamilton’s may get out of their businesses, they believe that giving back to the community is the primary way to make this town a better place to work and live for all families. As summer sets in (finally!), make time to visit one of the locations, perhaps watch a sunset off the deck at Michael’s while enjoying something refreshing or savory, and reflect on the many good things we have and what we as individuals can give back to our community. And welcome to the family!

Filed Under: 2011-06 June 2011, Food & Wine, People

Brielle Noah: Miss Moses Lake Roundup 2011

Promoting the sport of professional rodeo and a western way of life.

Venue Magazine had a few questions for Brielle in a recent conversation and this is what she had to say…

Q. What is it like to grow up on a ranch in Soap Lake?

A. Growing up on a ranch has taught me a lot of life long lessons. As a kid I was able to play in the dirt and learn the respect for the animals. I had a great mom and dad that always enforced the rules of work hard and then you can play hard. I was in charge of the ranch work that involved fixing fences and changing irrigation lines along with tending the large herds that would come every spring, let alone the animals we owned.

Q. Who all is in your local family?

A. My parents are Steve and Dominique ( Nicki) Noah they will be married for thirty six years this August! I know it is cheesy to say but, I’m proud of them. The oldest of all siblings is my sister Stephenie and she is living in Australia at this time, she loves to travel. My oldest brother is Derek and he is married working at REC living in Ephrata with his beautiful family; wife Melissa and kids Ethan and Kylee. Chad is my other brother, he works for the City of Soap lake and is married. He and wife Lora are living George. Both of my brothers fell in love with their 4-H sweet hearts from long ago.

Q. How old were you when you learned to ride?

A. My mom and sister (Steph) stuck me on a horse when I was four, but I started riding on my own when I was five. I took some good falls off of my old horse named Top Dall and my sister made me get on again and again. If she didn’t do that for me I have no idea where I would be today in life.

Q. Were you in 4-H and other organizations as you grew up?

A. I grew up as a home schooled child, this allowed me to be involved in other activities. I started 4-H when I was nine years old and stopped at seventeen. My projects consisted of: Beef, swine, sewing and cooking, and modeling. With the horses in 4-H, I did performance, western games and green horse. I joined the Basin Wranglers junior rodeo club when I was twelve and competed in cow riding, pole bending, barrel racing, breakaway roping and goat tying. As of now, I compete in occasional team roping jackpots and barrel races.

Q. Besides horses what else is of interest to you?

A. My mom said, ever since I dropped the baby bottle I had a crayon or pencil to replace it. My grandmother Ida van der Veen is a oil painter, so I get some of my talent from her among many other artists in my family. I entered my art in 4-H exhibits and contests. I also had the chance to have private violin lessons and be involved in recitals. I was able to understand the impact that classic music has on a person. Thank you Gina Heutink of Ephrata for that experience. For three years I was part of “The Promise” church drama as the hovering angel. That was always really fun and it was awesome to see peoples lives change.

Brielle on Smokey Joe

Q. You won this title on eight year old Smokey Joe. How long have you owned this horse? Did you train him yourself?

A. Smokey Joe is an amazing horse, I got him four years ago to train him for some friends of mine and fell in love with his looks and attitude. He is the type of horse that likes to please and if I ask him to do something he does it. So yes, I did train him myself and he is probably the easiest horse so far because he is so smart.

Q. What lessons have horses taught “you”?

A. Wow, that is a great question. Training horses you have to have tons of patience! If you are trying to train a young mind with a bad attitude, and trying to force a animal that is fifteen hundred pounds you can get in a world of hurt, I have been there. I have learned things from them that has helped me treat people with patience and kindness. They have taught me that you can’t force a attitude or movement, it’s about choices and I have to convince them of the right choices. It’s called resistance free training, it has to do with mental and physical pressure. As they mature and depending on the sport you do, they have to overcome fear or excitement to push on and do their job. I add the pressure when they are ready. Much Like we do thought our lives.

Q. What is your role now as Miss Moses Lake Roundup 2011?

A. I have the privilege to promote the Moses Lake Roundup and the sport of professional rodeo. Throughout my travels to all the rodeos and parades I am their representative and the face of the Moses Lake Roundup for the year. As the queen I will improve my ability to speak fluently to all kinds of different personalities and gladly influence them with the western way of life.

Q. In the competition you won in several categories: photogenicshorsemanship-personality-appearance-sales achievement. Which was the most difficult for you?

A. Out of all the categories the most difficult to compete in was the public speaking portion. I will always have room to improve and I’m confident that I will in this area.

Q. I was told you are a little nervous about public speaking. What will you do to overcome this?

A. I just started my spring quarter of college and speech is one of my classes. So far it has been fun. The only way I can overcome this fear of public speaking is to just keep doing it. Practice makes perfect!

Brielle with her family

Q. How will this achievement benefit you for your future goals?

A. As my future goals unfold I will be dealing again with many personalities so, I need to communicate properly. I hope to finish my degree in agronomy and would like to see myself working with organic green houses as well. It would bring me satisfaction by producing healthy foods for our people.

Q. If you were to live by the lyrics of a country western song, which one would it be and why?

A. One Way Ticket by LeeAnn Rimes. This song has inspired me through rough times along with the good times. It’s kind of hard to think of a country western song that doesn’t have any word of a relationship problems in it‘s lyrics. What I love about this one is it’s few different lines of: (Start all over again), (See how far I can go), and ( Face the world around me). I know that this song will have a different effects on everyone who listens to it and for different reasons, but it’s kicky beat and meaning helped me put one foot in front of the other ever since it came out.

Filed Under: 2011-04 April 2011, People

A VENUE Interview: Lt. Col. Jim and Maj. Angela O’Connell

Jim is the Detachment Commander at Grant County International Airport.His wife, Major Angela O’Connell, is the air wing’s Deputy Chief of Public Affairs (PA).

Given the temporary re-location of the 92 Air Refueling Wing from Fairchild AFB, to Grant County International Airport I asked a retired Air Force pilot to interview the Detachment Commander and his wife about their lives and what the move means for them. As you will soon see, they have a very unique relationship.

VENUE Magazine: Welcome, and welcome specifically to Moses Lake. Jim, I understand you are originally from Spokane so you are familiar with Eastern Washington.

Jim: Yes, I grew up in Spokane where I went to St. John Vianney and Gonzaga Prep.

Angela: We’re lucky that Jim is from Spokane because we have an amazing support system here.

VM: How did you two meet?

Angela: Fairchild AFB was my first duty assignment as a maintenance officer. Jim was already stationed here and we met each other at a Halloween party.

VM: How would you describe being a married military couple? Rewarding? Difficult? Would you recommend it to others? All the above?

Jim: It depends; Angela has been able to flex greatly to accommodate my career. Some couples to do not have that ability. It can be difficult, but I have a great partner.

Angela: Being married in the military is difficult but rewarding. It is nice to have the common ground but deployments and time commitments can make it difficult. I think each couple needs to look at their priorities and see if they are able to flex for each other. Unfortunately, there will be times of competing interests and someone has got to give for the other. It is no different than any other marriage, it takes work.

VM: Do you have any children?

Angela: Yes, we have three children. They are 10, 8 and 6 years old.

VM: I can see where you would need a support system particularly since Jim now temporarily resides in Moses Lake while you and the children reside in Spokane. With that in mind, how difficult is it that both of you work for the ARW?

Jim: Not too difficult. The hardest part is juggling our commitments with childcare availability.

Angela: I have been in the AF Reserves for the last nine years but only recently began work as a civil service employee (Dec 2010). It has been an adjustment with me working but not difficult. Again, that support system really helps.

VM: Angela, I understand you separated from the active-duty Air Force when your commitment was up but continued on in the Air Force Reserves as a Major. Why did you make that decision?

Angela: I separated because we were in career fields (Pilot, Public Affairs) that would have made it difficult to be together. I grew up an Air Force “brat” and know what it is like moving and having a parent gone for extended periods of time. We did not want our children to contend with the possibility of having both of us gone and having to deal with being passed around to family members to compensate for that. It was difficult enough for me and I had a stay-at-home mom as stability. I wanted our kids to have some stability, as well.

VM: You two have a very unique relationship. How would each of you describe your personalities?

Jim: I enjoy being with my wife and kids. I spend a lot of time on the road so I have always been focused on family and friends.

Angela: Wow, tough question. I think I am outgoing and flexible. I am always excited about opportunities that may be coming. Having been an Air Force “brat,” I have moved and lived in several countries which is an amazing adventure. I truly have been blessed.

VM: When you do find time what do you enjoy beyond your careers? Sports, hobbies…?

Jim: I enjoy reading (history), studying genealogy and sports.

Angela: I enjoy cooking, riding bikes, playing games with the kids.

VM: What are your mid- (within the Air Force) and long-term goals (after the military) as an individual and as a couple?

Jim: Being in the Air Force is a great experience. I have always wanted to fly and to get to do that for a living has been rewarding. I continue to strive to be a better officer and leader. Longterm, I am not sure what that will bring. Who knows! I will probably retire and Angela will continue as the Deputy Chief of PA . Right now, I am focused on my Air Force career.

Angela: We made it through two assignments together on active duty. The Air Force is good at trying to keep spouses together. The AF Reserves have offered me amazing flexibility to continue to serve my country while moving with Jim to various assignments to include England and Australia. I am a firm believer in doing your job well. My mid-term goal is to excel in the position I was hired for because I have been given a great opportunity to show the taxpayers the amazing things our Airmen accomplish daily.

Filed Under: 2011-03 March 2011, People

What Can ‘You’ do for “Y.O.U.” to Help ‘Them’?

Building Dreams with Cindy Carpenter

In a world where there is so much focus is on ‘I’, or ‘me me me’ with many people, it is so refreshing to find something where the focus is on you. Y.O.U., in this particular instance, refers to Youth Outdoors Unlimited (www.youthoutdoorsunlimitedwa.com). Their plainly stated mission is thus; A Central Washington based, non-profit corporation organized to take youth who have been diagnosed with a life threatening illness and/or disability, and who have a DREAM to hunt or fish, on their own outdoor adventure.

The birth of this idea began gestating in part because Cindy Carpenter loves to teach; it has been a fulfilling role of hers for years as she has worked with the Jr. Golf program as golf pro at Moses Pointe, but she also found out you are never too old to learn new things. Her husband Joe found in her an ardent pupil when he introduced her to fishing a few years back. She was, to use an intentional pun, hooked instantly. The joys of angling soon began to be foremost in her enjoyment of things…that was until the deer hunting bug was introduced.

This new passion to hunt for bigger game through the art of the bow was enticing with its high level of training and intensity of tracking skills it entails. She could understand why people become so ‘all involved’ with this, such as her husband and brother-inlaw who have been big game hunters for decades. Through some off-season networking with hunting friends, Cindy came across an organization called ‘A Hunt Above,’ a Mississippi-based group that provides what Y.O.U. WA is trying to emulate. Through contact with the founders of that group, it kindled in Carpenter the desire to do the same…at least, why not try?

It is not just about the catch or harvesting of the creatures, but what Cindy sees as this entire social network unlike any other group. There is a very special type of camaraderie that is flung back and forth across frosty mornings in a duck blind, in a boat on a glass smooth lake, or around a fire at deer camp. It is in fact these scenarios that started the seed germinating in the minds of a core group of locals. Cindy loves golf, there is no doubt about that, but she says there is nothing to compare with the thrill of the hunt or fishing for that beautiful keeper. It is this thrill and excitement that she so hopes to share with a growing number of special young ones from our area.

Cindy’s energetic excitement is contagious, and can only be an asset when dealing with those children with special circumstances or limited time that may not be able to pursue these activities on their own. Similar organizations have existed for years, “Make a Wish” for instance, but what about one centered on the unique hunting and fishing that Central Washington has in spades? After researching to see whether anything like this already existed in the region, she called in some of her hunting/fishing friends and got the ball rolling. As balls roll, this one was heavy and on a steep downhill slope. The momentum it gained was nothing short of, for lack of enough words in the English language, “Miraculous.”

The initial response from some land owners who are usually very protective of letting hunters on their acreage was enough to make Carpenter and Co. take notice. Many farmers in the Wilson Creek-area welcomed with open arms the opportunity to open their best hunting land to the group when they got their charges lined up. Through word –of-mouth it spread like wildfire; the local Bass and Walleye clubs eagerly vied for the opportunities to help, and several professional hunters got on board quickly, as well.

Carpenter had to get serious on the organizational end of things, and with help from the Dano Law firm, J. Newhouse Co. and others an amazingly fast approval of their 501(C) status was approved and the board members began to fall into place. Even the normally rigid WA Department of Fish and Game has been very helpful in making this venture more than just a possibility. On a case by case basis they will consider waiving certain rules to accommodate the kids.

The Y.O.U. website, though still in a state of being polished, is the best source for the forms and guidelines that dictate who is eligible, and the finer details that are required for each hunting/angling dream experience to become a reality. They are not extensive or burdensome, and the hope is that with the help already offered and the upcoming fund raising efforts, it will be easy for the families and affected children to connect to the outdoor experience they are looking for.

Y.O.U. has taken the necessary steps to be fully insured, and they are taking extensive measures to ensure that all of the hunters and anglers that will be working with the kids meet the highest standards and are fully informed about their needs. The main thing that all involved want for these children is for them to be able to forget, for at least one day, that they are sick, or different and to connect with those that do not have those limitations. The first and foremost choice in any decision involving the kids and the activities they are undertake is their safety!

Perhaps through a fortunate series of events, Moses Lake is home to a very special person who will be the first to experience what Y.O.U. has to offer. Spencer Kimbro has previously been given local press coverage because of his indomitable spirit and drive, though confined to a wheelchair and experiencing a dozen other physical ravages of the Spinabifida with which he was born. He is not only one of most deserving candidates, but is more than happy to serve as the poster child to carry this organization forward.

Y.O.U. will be holding their first fundraiser on March 31st at Sporty’s Steakhouse. Tickets can be purchased in advance by
contacting Cindy Carpenter (cindy@askcindycarpenter.com) or Sporty’s, and even if you can’t attend, tax deductible donations can be made through J.R. Newhouse Co., c/o Chris Newhouse, 528 W. Broadway, Moses Lake. Make checks payable to “Youth Outdoors Unlimited.” Donations of organizational equipment are also needed and greatly appreciated, and already a number of local business have stepped up…still, more is required to keep a 501(C) charity up and running for the long term. (Forms are available online.)

Keep up to date with the schedule of events and the experiences of the children that are being given these opportunities via the Y.O.U. website.

Quotes from community members:

Robin Kimbro – Spencer’s mother.

It is hard to really convey how excited we all are, not just Spencer. It is so heartwarming to see that Y.O.U. is not just a few local people helping one or two kids, but is actually part of something that is, and will be, much bigger. We hope the entire community, which has many outdoorsmen here in Central WA, will get behind this in a big way. Spencer is already talking about what he can do to help mentor the succeeding kids who will be enjoying the experience.

Jennifer Newhouse – Coordinator for ‘Parent to Parent’.

Parent to Parent is a program that offers emotional support and information about disabilities and community resources to parents who have a youth with a disability, illness and/or special health care needs. It helps all involved to learn to bridge that gap for those of us who sometimes don’t know what to say or how to say it. She was asked by Cindy to act as an educator and liaison between the sponsored children and the professionals that will be working with them in the field who may not know all the terminology or specifics in dealing with the special needs children, and to help raise community awareness.

Chris Newhouse – Y.O.U. Treasurer.

Having worked with a number of other organizations that try to provide special events and occasions to children, though much less specialized or involved as Y.O.U, it is very exciting to see something like this come out of our own locality. The experiences for these kids will be so great they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives, and it is nice just to have a share in making a difference to these ones.

Don Sell – Y.O.U. Secretary.

Don was there at deer camp just last year when this concept was brought up in general conversation. Now as things have rocketed skyward and he is part of a diversified board of directors, he sees this as what it takes to make it happen. With a love of hunting and the outdoors, Don is excited that he can help these kids experience the thrill that those without these special circumstances may take for granted.

Joe Carpenter – Master Hunter and Field Guide for Y.O.U.

Having been an avid hunter for decades, he feels this is such an awesome opportunity for him to be able to share the love of what he does every chance he gets with these great kids. As the husband of Cindy he feels responsible for nurturing the fire within her, and is behind her endeavors with Y.O.U. 100%. Joe has helped get the local clubs and groups involved, but adds that more help and support is always welcome and it should eventually overwhelm the number of kids they are slated to help.

Curt Carpenter – Master Hunter and Field Guide for Y.O.U.

There are a number of things that the title “Master Hunter” allows and requires, but Curt can’t think of anything more exciting or rewarding than to use these skills and contacts to work with the kids that Y.O.U. hopes to reach. Along with his brother Joe, they will bring decades of safe experience to enrich the lives of these children. They have a great kid in Spencer to start with, and he looks forward to a long line of others that he can be with to experience that once in a lifetime feel of the first hunt.

Filed Under: 2011-03 March 2011, People

Cory Clasen

Better Pedaling on the Path of Life

I think it was Queen, (the Brit Rock Quartet not the Monarch), that said it best when belting out the verse, “Get on your bikes and ride!” Whether a fan or not, owner of Moses Lake Multisport, Cory Clasen and many of his local supporters certainly echo that cry. Located at 516 W. Broadway, the modest, unassuming cube that is his shop has inside a wide variety of round things…things attached to pedals and frames… that will move you!

Clasen was at one point in his life involved in the trucking industry; hauling those gas guzzling 4-wheeled cages about the country, but eventually began to feel a bit burned out with it. Looking at the demographics of our town and area, he took a chance with his sincere feeling that there were enough dedicated and serious riders here that it could support a shop centered on a higher class and quality of bicycles. Having served Moses Lake for 11 years now by offering an alternative to what have become almost ‘throw away’ two wheelers, Clasen not only sells some of the best, but has the knowledge and credentials to back them up with his service.

Pedaling backwards a bit, it is notable that the lithe C.C. was at one point a rapidly rising star in the world of Motocross Racing; racking up wins and gaining major factory sponsors in his teenage years. After a fairly serious injury sidelined him, his father encouraged bicycle riding to help with rehabilitation and conditioning. An attempt at returning to competition proved that there was too much on the line physically to risk, and Clasen returned to pedaling with a passion. In the late 90’s Clasen became interested in the Triathlon events that seemed to be gaining in popularity across the country and this eventually led to his involvement in Moses Lake’s own Triathlon. Cory states that here at home he is really more of a behind the scenes volunteer helper than a competitor, yet he still finds time to travel each season to 5 or 6 events elsewhere in the region.

Clasen will also be seen participating in Cross Country riding and is an avid proponent of the local ‘Indy Series’ events, some even held in his own backyard…literally. With a strong core group of locals also ‘peddling’ these activities, Clasen encourages those interested to visit the website www.beezleyburn.com and learn about the ‘Vicious Cycle’ riding group, where riders can join others in organized, scheduled rides. Rain or shine, all year round there is time for enjoying this sport; they even include weekly ‘spin classes for fun and health.

Clasen’s unmistakable voice with its slightly raspy edge reminds you of someone who has yelled a bit too loud and long at the fun stuff in life, which is not a bad quality to have. His zest for the bicycling lifestyle is quite apparent, though he is not in possession of only a “one track mind”. (Though a single track path is the most fun on two wheels!) Cory has the knowledge and know-how to sell and service all styles of bicycles. He is also involved in a number of different applications for their use; Road, Off Road, Mountain, or Retro Boulevard Cruisers that hearken back to rides of the 50’s. Don’t let the size of the shop fool you, this is a pro class establishment, and he has recently branched out to sell and service a variety of water sport clothing and equipment for those who want to enjoy the wetter side of our area’s recreational offerings.

What Moses Lake Multisport strives to do is to professionally fit the rider to the bicycle. There is no one machine that can do it all, so if you have a variety of riding styles, or don’t know exactly what you want to or should ride, Cory asks that you just stop by to look and listen. No high pressure sales, only decades of knowledge and a very real desire to get folks out there onto two wheels. This is a healthy activity and lifestyle for all ages, and it pains him to know that some make purchases of a bicycle only to have it end up collecting dust in a garage. Even if you don’t plan on buying a bike from him, let him fit you and verify that you are looking to get on the best machine for your intended use.

In addition to the obvious health benefits of bicycling, for those that commute it means saving resources. What Clasen likes most about the activity however is that it can be so ‘family oriented’. In many parts of our community you will encounter families of three or more pleasantly wheeling together, at a speed and proximity that elicits conversation and builds bonds of togetherness. If you really want closeness, try a two-seater tandem bike with a tow along child carrier! Perhaps there is a reason bicycle rims are round and they call it ‘the circle of life’…

Filed Under: 2011-02 February 2011, People

Randy Johnstad

Basin Arts is Looking for Allies

We usually think of ‘allies’ in the context of warfare. It applies too here and now in the Columbia basin as Randy Johnstad and the forces at the Columbia Basin Allied Arts (CBAA) organization battle artistic mediocrity and cultural dilution. This struggle is not being orchestrated by a ‘war hawk-like’ General, but rather by the modestly quiet, sincere, and arts-loving leader that the Basin Arts organization has in Randy Johnstad. This organization, in close affiliation with BBCC, has taken on as its charter mission to provide ‘all arts to all people’, and ‘to provide diverse cultural enrichment and lifelong education through the arts…a worthy cause to fight for indeed.

The CBAA was not in a healthy condition when Johnstad took over in 2007; having seen years of steady decline in support of its goals. Johnstad became the first in a succession of directors, stretching back over 33 seasons now, to direct productions himself, and things are now on a steady upward trend. With the hard work and creativity of Johnstad and the entire dedicated board of directors and officers plus the community support, victory is in sight. Still, there are more battles to be fought and challenges facing them.

Looking at Johnstad’s educational credentials and earned degrees prove his fitness to serve in this rank. After years of school Johnstad entered the field of media, live and television based, producing scores of commercials and other memorable programs. For quite some time Johnstad was “The go to guy” for any needs concerning the larger than life, furry, fantastic creatures. Need a Bigfoot…you got it! Sesame Street characters for a J.C. Penny ad campaign, Randy was there. He even worked ‘under the fur’ as the Supersonics mascot “The Wheedle”. And who of us that were raised in the northwest can forget ‘Morty the Mission Meatball’? Yes, you guessed it…R. Johnstad.

With a fascinating résumé of accreditation and accomplishments, Johnstad came from the west side of this state to the wide open spaces of the basin seeking a respite from the fast pace he had maintained for decades. On a large, remote chunk of land, living ‘off the grid’ seemed to be the thing to do, though life had other plans. Fire; it can destroy as well as cleanse and refine. Losing nearly everything in a house fire did not send Johnstad into full retreat but rather saw him draw back to consider his next plan of attack. With a brother that worked on the board of our storied local ‘Masquers Theater’, a move was made by him to help out with their efforts. This led to becoming involved with some local schools theatrical programs, and when the job came open for the Director of CBAA he applied and suddenly found himself back deep in the trenches.

The twinkle in the eyes behind a wry smile really belies the playful, fun-loving side of Johnstad. He channels this and has for years used it to everybody’s advantage in working with children’s theater and high school drama departments. (Currently he is directing the “Seussical” with Ephrata High School.) His productions as Director of CBAA since 2007 have shown his devotion to the children of our area, such as the recent run of ‘Tom Sawyer’ that graced the stage of Wallenstein. Johnstad loves to see the excitement and joy in the faces of children on both sides of the stage lights.

Aiming for one major production each season, the CBAA also works regularly with the Missoula Children’s Theater group to put on several youth involved spectacles. Add to that mix the 4 major “Premiere” stage plays or musical events that assault the audio and visual pleasure center of the audience’s brain, and it is hard to see how one can do this job only part time.

Ever gracious and thankful to the community members who are patrons and to the generous support of many local businesses, a cry is sent out for still more allies. Individuals, couples, and families especially are urged to show their solidarity. Times are not as bountiful as they could be, but there are few things as rewarding as supporting the cultural growth of our children and the entire community by becoming members and purchasing season tickets. Prices are really amazingly low when you take into account the going rate for some of this talent in large cities.

This is the front line of our battle, agrees Johnstad, to keep the increasing amount of electronic and static forms of modern ‘recreation’ from atrophying the minds and imaginations of our children… and ourselves. Attending and participating in live theatre and stage performances are a very tactile, interactive experience that cannot be duplicated by pixels and flat panels. A call to ’arts’ is being made; allied forces that will leave in their wake only smiling faces, enriched children, and a stronger, culturally diverse community. www.basinarts.org

Filed Under: 2011-01 January 2011, People