Who's Marge Chadderdon?
A Coeur d'Alene resident since 1964, Marge is the former owner of Carpet Center and a current state legislator.

There are numerous adjectives to describe Marge Chadderdon...mother, grandmother, retired businesswoman, state legislator. Add connoisseur to the list. A widow and the subject of loving teasing by her family, Marge is not known for her skill in the kitchen. Since her children Julie, Jan, Jodi and Doug and nine grandchildren all live within 35 miles, family gatherings are large and frequent. Julie explains that Marge grew up on a cattle ranch and wheat farm in eastern Montana and has never served meat that was anything but well done.

Marge is a busy woman who finds cooking for one a bother and a challenge. She's sampled the menus of most area eateries by choice and necessity. When asked to name a favorite place she didn't hesitate when choosing the Fort Ground Grill.

The local favorite gathering place for decades of St. Patrick Day celebrations, the historic brick building changed hands in March. Michael DePasquale of Michael D's fame is one of the new owners. The business underwent renovations for most of the summer, reopening with a new look and menu that pays tribute to the colorful and traditional past of not only the landmark tavern but the Fort Ground area and General Sherman. The menu is filled with historic vignettes and proclaims the Fort Ground Grill as a meeting place of great minds, with good food since sometime around 1877.

Marge likes the restaurant's neighborhood feel and the comfortable, warm open brickwork decor. "The convenient parking is great, too," she said. A fun place to meet friends of all ages, she's enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner from the new menu. "I really like the Cougar Bay salad with warm maple vinaigrette dressing," says Rep. Chadderdon, "And the little red potatoes they serve for breakfast."

Chef Steve Taylor has created a selection of dishes that include his own General's Kettle Chips, also served bleu cheese style. Other popular items are the ribeye steak sandwich and the Bighorn bison steak on the dinner menu. Chicken, fish and pasta specialties are complimented by a special Fort Ground Grind coffee or a generous selection of wines and domestic and microbrew beer on tap or by the bottle.

"All of the meals are reasonably priced. If you haven't been there yet, I know you'll like it," said the discerning Mrs. Chadderdon.