Kaufer Co. marks 100

Kaufer Co. Christian Supplies is celebrating 100 years in business this week, welcoming people of all denominations to stop by the store at 907 W. Boone Ave.

The religious supply and gift company will cap its weeklong centennial recognition on Friday at approximately 5:15 p.m. when Spokane Bishop William Skylstad leads a business blessing. Skylstad was elected president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops on Monday in Washington, D.C.

Cake and coffee will be served Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. Throughout the week, every 10th customer is being given a door prize.

“We’re having a great, grand old time sharing in the festivities,” said employee Chuck Klaus.

Kaufer’s rich history began in 1904 when P.A. Kaufer opened a bookstore in Seattle. A downtown Spokane branch opened in the early 1940s. Twenty-four years ago, the store moved to its current location. Ed Sinclair, great-grandson of Kaufer, owns and manages the store.

The store specializes in jewelry, cards, clothing and seasonal merchandise.

New boutique in old City Hall

Attention ladies who are into unique, upscale – but affordable – shoes and accessories:

A new family-owned shop called Boutique 238 opened last month on 221 N. Wall St., Suite 238 (above the Olive Garden). Bob and Vicki Braun are the proprietors, along with help from their oldest daughter Mallory.

The store specializes in shoes, purses, jewelry and other fun items that would make Sarah Jessica Parker (on a budget) feel right at home.

“A lot of people start to walk by and think we’re going to be too expensive. But they come in and realize there are a lot of moderately priced items,” Bob Braun said

Boutique 238 is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Brauns have been known to stay open later on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, depending on the traffic.