We’ll miss you, Mountain Gear

This letter comes from a Spokane household that is saddened at the loss of Mountain Gear. The retail store on Division; the LEED-Awarded Administrative Building; and Paul Fish himself are all institutions in Spokane that will be sorely missed by so very many.

I had the privilege of working for Mountain Gear some years ago. As the community outreach coordinator, Paul asked that I work with local schools, tribes, parents and Spokane County Health to improve outdoor skills and educate parents and kids about water safety when recreating on or near the Spokane River.

Winter sessions were also held, one titled “How to Enjoy a Winter in Spokane” in which, working with the Spokane Park Department, we educated parents and youth about trails and urban hikes that could be undertaken in the winter months, proving you didn’t have to head to a ski slope in order to exercise and have fun right here in the city during the winter months. Many attending had never experienced snow shoes or cross-country skis, with both being introduced during these free sessions.

We’re still wearing clothing we purchased at Mountain Gear years ago due to the long-lasting quality of the items the company carried and sold. And when something was needed there was always someone to talk to about which item would work best for which activity.

Thanks, Paul, for having such an upscale store; thanks for having staff who always took the time to interact with customers. You’ll all be missed!

Judith Gilmore

Spokane