Oriental market offers ‘a little of everything’

Even if you can’t read the labels, you’ll like the food.

Lieng and Phane Oriental Market has been open for a few months in Spokane Valley, and it offers a blend of several types of Asian grocery items.

The store at 11924 E. Sprague Ave. offers “a little of everything,” said owner Fong Nong.

Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese and other foods are available, including a large selection of Asian cookies and treats.

Nong opened the store last Thanksgiving, and it is the first time she’s owned her own business.

“There are a lot of headaches, but I’m happy with it,” she said.

Nong’s family helps run the store, which she said makes the job fun.

“Family-owned is probably the nicest thing to do,” she said.

Tunes on Sprague

Island tunes are emanating from a new location on Sprague.

Apela Violins, Guitars and Ukuleles moved from Millwood to 12012 E. Sprague Ave., Suite 2, in early January.

“We came here, and it’s been a great place,” said Andrew Lovato who along with business partner, Abel Su’a, sells custom-made ukuleles and classical guitars.

The shop carries other guitar supplies, as well as violins. The store also services stringed instruments and offers lessons.

Lovato said the shop is serving more people because it’s closer to Sprague and has better parking than the old store.

Room at the fair

There’s still some room left at the annual Spokane Valley Business Fair, and officials with the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce say they’ll probably fill fast.

The business fair, taking place March 29, is about 80 percent full, said Eldonna Gossett, spokesman for the chamber. For $250, businesses can still join the fair, which is heavily attended, she said.

“It’s an opportunity to promote business in the great Valley,” Gossett said. “I think it will be a great event.”

The event will be open to the public and door prizes will be available.

The fair, in its fourth year, also provides an opportunity for various businesses in the Valley to network, she said.