November 2021 253 Lifestyle Magazine by Like Media

ISSUE NO. 35

NOVEMBER 2021

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Ski the Northwest FROM EPIC RESORTS TO THE BEST HIDDEN POWDER

Q&A WITH MARISSA MEYER #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

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MARKETING WASHINGTON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Julie Reed | 253.363.8832 julie@like-media.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Jillian Chandler | jillian@like-media.com STAFF WRITERS Colin Anderson | Taylor Shillam | Rachel Kelly

OPERATIONS MANAGING PARTNER | Kim Russo EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | Steve Russo DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS | Rachel Figgins DIRECTOR OF MARKETING | Allyia Briggs

CONTRIBUTORS Deann Hammer, Marguerite Cleveland, Bri Williams, Missi Balison, Lynn Castle, Tina VanDenHeuvel-Cook

great things for a great community Founded in 1925, Peninsula Light is your member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, providing reliable power throughout Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula. We are dedicated to continually improving the quality

PHOTOGRAPHY Photographers: In-Gear Media pg. 1 & 28-31, Anneli Fogt pg. 19-20, Diane Fetzner pg. 20, Mary Bridge pg. 22-26, Tina VanDenheuvel-Cook pg. 58 Courtesy Photos: Deann Hammer, Pacific Lutheran University, The Ranch at Rock Creek, Alderbrook Resort, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Red Mountain Resort, Whitefish Mountain Resort

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253 Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. 253 Lifestyle Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. 253 Lifestyle Magazine is produced and published by Like Media, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

Building Better Solutions for Clients With almost 30 years experience serving families in Gig Harbor and Pierce County, Felicia Soleil provides more constructive alternatives to dissolving a marriage outside of a courtroom. In addition to her family law practice, she also provides mediation services, offering legal support, education and case management - from simple to complex - for separation and divorce, parenting plans, child support and prenuptial agreements.

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PUBLIS HER’S

Picks

Steve Russo Executive Director

BE THANKFUL, TODAY AND ALWAYS

ach November, we are reminded to “give thanks” and to “be thankful,” as that Thanksgiving feast will soon make its way to our table, where we’re surrounded by our closest family and friends. Rather than expressing our gratitude just one day a year, why aren’t we voicing what we are grateful for on a more regular—even daily—basis? Our lives are filled with the good and the bad, those ups and downs, times of prosperity and times of trouble. It is important to focus on all that we do have to be thankful for—from the very basic yet essential things like having a roof over our heads, food on the table, and free education for our children— especially during those times of hardship. It is all too easy these days to focus on what others have and we lack, especially with social media and its ever-present access. You can often find yourself scrolling through while being bombarded with other people touting their success, whether it be that brand-new car or that “perfect” body.

16 SMALL PURCHASES ADD UP: CHOOSE LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

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MARISSA MEYER: #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Though much easier said than done, there is no time like the present to turn that focus inward, looking at oneself and your own accomplishments and blessings. A life well lived consists of so much more than material possessions and outer appearances. Our lives are uniquely magnificent, and it is up to us to see and appreciate what we do have and continue to sacrifice so much for. If you are looking to spread your blessings with others, from volunteering your time at a local nonprofit this holiday season, to sending in a financial contribution to that special organization, purchasing a Thanksgiving meal for a local veteran or family in need, or donating items to make a child’s Christmas morning truly memorable, know that your actions have an impact that extends far beyond your reach and may change someone’s life, even if just for one day. Make it a habit to count your blessings not just on Thanksgiving Day, but each day. Happy Thanksgiving!

SKI THE NORTHWEST: FROM EPIC RESORTS TO THE BEST HIDDEN POWDER

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CONTENTS 22

H OME

Leave it to the Professionals: Five reasons why you should hire an interior designer

28 Q& A

HE ALT H & LIF E S TY L E

Small Purchases Add Up: Choose local this holiday season

Marissa Meyer: #1 New York Times bestselling author committed to giving back to the community

The latest tips and trends about living a healthy, active life

TR E NDING

TACOMA FO CUS

TH E ART S

BU S IN E S S P IN P O I N T

Mary Bridge Children’s Festival of Trees: A bit of holiday magic

A Bright Future: Asia Pacific Cultural Center introduces plans for New Building Project

Pacific Lutheran University: An experience that allows students’ ambition to blossom into purpose, their skills to sharpen into tools, and their caring to become a transformative force

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sneak peek into November ... 44

58 ISSUE NO. 35

NOVEMBER 2021

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Ski the Northwest FROM EPIC RESORTS TO THE BEST HIDDEN POWDER

Q&A WITH MARISSA MEYER

F E ATUR E

FEAT U R E D R ECIP E

Ski the Northwest: From epic resorts to the best hidden powder

A Sure Way to Warm You Up on a Fall Afternoon: Rustic Mushroom Soup

ENTE RTA I NMENT

TRAV E L & LE IS U R E

Events you don’t want to miss!

Spend Thanksgiving at a Destination Resort: Where the whole family can sit back and relax

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

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About The Cover MARISSA MEYER, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR WITH DEEP ROOTS IN THE SOUTH SOUND, shares her commitment to encouraging young women through her strong female characters, as well as her passion to give back to children and families in our community. You can find her on the cover of this month’s issue of 253 Lifestyle Magazine, and in our Q&A, which can be found on page 28. Photo by In-Gear Media 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 11

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Home Leave it to the Professionals FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

BY DEANN HAMMER, BROADWAY DESIGN

s it is said, nothing lasts forever. Many homes in this area were constructed between 1970 and 1990, which means that many home interiors are now coming to the end of their life span of 30 to 50 years and are outdated.

The best approach to protect your home investment, not to mention your optimum enjoyment while living there, is to hire an interior design professional. I have viewed thousands of homes where homeowners have “gone it alone” and made decisions for renovations or decorating on their own—and very few of them have had a happy ending. There are loads of things to consider during construction, and a renovation or decorating project can be very expensive. So why throw good money away? 1. Overall design theme. A designer will help you get out of your own head and see the entire project as a whole, creating continuity and timelessness. Often a client will be obsessed with one thing that they saw in a magazine 10 years ago—and it can possibly be outdated quickly, or kill the overall theme of the architectural style, resale value or budget of a home. 2. Scale. Designers know what size fits where and why. They draft out your construction or furniture floor plan showing where items will be placed, and attend to all of the details such as the color of your sofa legs, fabric durability, the depth of your couch, the height of your chairs relating to the size of your body, the softness of the cushion that you prefer for comfort, the color scheme, and the overall size of each piece relating to the height of the ceilings, amount of light entering the room, and on it goes. Clicking a button online for a furniture purchase or walking into a furniture store will not get you the same result. Ever. 3. Experience/relationships with furniture vendors. Wayfair is great … but only if you want to buy something under $2,000. How do you know if your sofa is made with hardwood versus particle board that will fall apart completely in two years? Quality counts. Designers know their vendors well. They know how products are made, as they buy in volume. They have service relationships with their vendors and can remedy any problems that arise. Buy it once, and buy it right. Why buy disposable goods that keep increasing our landfills? Cheap products look cheap. You deserve better.

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4. It can save you money. Fewer mistakes, less wasted money and time. If the item is measured properly the first time, it will fit through the door of your room and not be returned. It will look fantastic, and it will be made to last. Designers help you make these choices. They also have access to wholesale trade accounts that have pricing far below retail prices. Often (and this is what my firm offers) you will not pay a design fee if you buy over $15,000 in merchandise. Or many designers will charge a design fee and offer a discount on merchandise. Any way you look at it, you have an extra added benefit by hiring a pro rather than buying online. 5. Construction design advice. I can’t say how many clients want to bang away at a remodel and say they will look at furniture later. What a mistake! Where you build your walls, the colors you paint, the flooring you chose, ALL impacts how it relates to your furniture selection process. You want to make sure you have a furniture plan before you start your renovation to ensure all of your pieces will fit properly, the colors jive, and items will be delivered in a time frame that will correspond with the end of project, so you can sit in your newly renovated home rather than lying on the floor. Deann Hammer is the owner of Broadway Design, a boutique interior design firm in Gig Harbor. She and her team craft spaces that are tailored to each client's personality and lifestyle, while mindful of their budget, creating a perfect harmony between aesthetics and function. BroadwayDesign.net

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HELPING CHILDREN ONE TOY AT A TIME Proudly serving Pierce County children in need since 1994, we are a 100% volunteerrun organization that refurbishes and recycles gently used toys.

Help us continue to serve children by donating or volunteering today, and by joining our Ripples of Hope Campaign!

ToyRescueMission.org | 253.460.6711 martha@toyrescuemission.org 607 S. Winnifred St., Tacoma, WA (across from Tacoma Boys on 6th Ave.) 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 15

Trending SMALL PURCHASES

ADD UP Choose local this holiday season

By Colin Anderson

nline purchasing has completely revolutionized how we shop and how retailers grab our attention. The mall was once the central gathering point, not just for bored teenagers, but for shoppers to find everything they needed in one location. While some still thrive, others have gone by the wayside as more people turn to the convenience of online shopping. It’s tough to blame them. There are no open and closing times on a website; you don’t have to battle parking or the elements or other shoppers; and your purchase eventually shows up right to the front door. Online shopping can save time and money, two things just about all families would enjoy more of. The unfortunate side effect of this bit of convenience and few minutes saved is what it can do to a local economy. If consumers shift the entirety of their purchasing dollars to large corporations and nonregional chains, the ripple effect is felt not just by local business owners but the greater community. Corporations tend to answer to shareholders, and the better the company does, the better compensated both the shareholders and executive team are. While this is all well and good for them, locally owned businesses

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Support your local community by shopping local this holiday season; the impact in doing so is greater than most of us ever realize. answer to themselves and their customers. What they do with the money they take in is entirely up to them, and the vast majority will indeed reinvest those funds in livable wages for employees, purchasing goods and necessities from other local businesses, and sponsoring youth sports, nonprofits, religious affiliations and other organizations. For more than a decade, Like Media has encouraged our readers to continue to utilize services and purchase goods and gifts from locally run businesses in their communities. A flip through our pages, you won’t find anything corporate, but rather highly reputable local businesses that we are proud to help support in their marketing efforts. Our staff lives and works in each of the communities in which we publish and truly enjoys getting to know these businesses and taking advantage of the many services or unique goods they offer. This partnership has allowed our company to grow and not just provide better service to our clients, but to greatly expand the amount of wonderful stories we highlight in each issue. Over the past 20 years, despite massive growth in some major retailers, small business has continued to thrive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Business Employment Dynamics, small businesses created more than 10.5 million jobs between 2000 and 2019. The last two years have been chaotic to say the least, but

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if you glance in the window of any local business, you’re all but guaranteed to see a help wanted sign, meaning even more jobs are out there than the labor force is currently providing. Employing locals in your community not only creates opportunity for those individuals and their families, but the wages provided tend to stay more local and be reinvested back into the community. According to the most recent figure from the U.S. Small Business Association, for every $100 you spend at a locally owned business, $48 remains in the local economy. Purchases made at a big box store or national retailer, that number dips to just $14 out of the same $100 spent. Not only do these dollars go to employee bank accounts but often wind up in support of the local organizations that make each of our communities so unique. Many youth sports teams have the cost of jerseys taken care of by a local business. These same owners attend charity auctions, dinners and galas, committing thousands toward organizations helping youth, the elderly or vulnerable. They also donate time, goods and services for the betterment of their communities. While shopping in your pajamas and hitting “click” over and over again might save you time in the long run, why not make this

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the year to go out and really support your locally owned businesses? Those that have sustained the past two years of chaos could certainly use the boost, as can the thousands of entrepreneurs who’ve started their own dream businesses during these challenging economic times. Small Business Saturday started in 2010 by American Express as a way to encourage holiday shoppers to purchase gifts from local retailers during the holiday season. The idea has blossomed into a movement. A 2020 survey by Union Bank found that 72 percent of Americans said supporting small businesses was more important than getting the best deal. An additional 43 percent said they were willing to spend $20 more on an item to support a small or local business. Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 27. This year, skip the Black Friday chaos and instead find a few local stores you maybe haven’t been to for awhile or have yet to walk through the doors. A gift from a local shop is much more personal than a gift card or getting an unwrapped cardboard box in the mail. Even small purchases like a cup of coffee, lunch out or after-shopping cocktail helps keep those dollars close to home. Support your local community by shopping local this holiday season; the impact in doing so is greater than most of us ever realize.

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Tacoma Focus M ARY BR IDGE CHILDR EN’S

FESTIVAL OF TREES

A BIT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC BY RACHEL KELLY

elcome to the 2021 Mary Bridge Children’s Festival of Trees! It has been a much-anticipated yearly tradition of the South Sound community for over 30 years. This is a true festival to kick off the holiday, with events and highlights to bring our local communities together. What’s more, once again, the decadent trees will be decorated and auctioned off with contributions donated to Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. The trees are gorgeous, the atmosphere joyous, and the gala celebration one of a kind. It really is a bit of festival magic, a feeling that is palpable from the moment that participants enter the room. Last year, the event went virtual, and this year will continue along the same vein. However, there’s been a lot of changes and new things added to this year's lineup to encourage the community to come together this year. To get started, there is even more fun for the whole family. The festivities start on November 28 with a virtual tree lighting in front of the Baker Center (316 Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Tacoma). The community is encouraged to engage virtually (the lighting will be streamed live via the Festival of Trees Facebook page beginning at 5pm), but the 40-foot tree can be seen throughout the season. For the next month the community can tune in with small group-centered events. One such event is Santa’s Mailbox, which will be open to receiving letters after the tree lighting. In addition, Propel Insurance has sponsored the creation of mini trees that will be distributed to businesses throughout the community. These trees will be part of a community-wide scavenger hunt. Individuals or families can download the EventZee app, found at the website (FestivalofTreesTacoma.org), which they can use to locate and tag the trees for badges. It’s a little like Pokémon Go or geo-caching for mini trees. It’s a race to see who can locate them all first! The winner will also receive huge bragging rights. On December 4, events reach a peak with an elaborate tree auction. Each tree is lavishly decorated according to a theme by generous volunteers, then silently auctioned off and delivered to your doorstep at the end of the weekend. After the auction, each guest

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WITH SO MANY UNKNOWNS THIS FALL, YOU CAN COUNT ON US. We are ready to rise to your family’s needs, even as life continues to shift.

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is then invited to a private concert featuring Jamie O’Neal, Craig Campbell, Lindsay Ell, Andrea Pearson and Grammy award-winning artist Bryan White. All proceeds from tickets and tree sales will go to benefit the Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and Health Network. Last year the health network helped to decrease obstacles for children receiving care through Mary Bridge. This year the health network will contribute funds toward a stand-alone and updated hospital building. After years of sharing space with Multicare Tacoma General Hospital, Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital is getting a new home. Mary Bridge Children’s is the only Level II Pediatric Trauma hospital in Western Washington. This new hospital building will increase access to greater care. not just for hospitalized children in our community, but also to children who travel to this area for specialized health needs. The Festival of Trees is a main event, going a long way in raising the funds needed. “I am always amazed by the spirit of philanthropy that exists in our community. People simply love giving,” says Kelly Werner, event manager, of this year's Festival of Trees. The history of the Festival of Trees certainly attests to this truth. Over THIS YEAR'S FESTIVAL the past 35 years of festivities, Mary Bridge OF TREES IS THEMED Children's Hospital and the Mary Bridge “IT’S A WONDERFUL Brigade has received LIFE,” BECAUSE MARY over $38 million in culminating funds. BRIDGE CHILDREN’S Last year, during the pandemic, the auction REALLY DOES MAKE LIFE still managed to raise $1.3 million. Not only BETTER FOR CHILDREN does the community AND THEIR FAMILIES. regularly raise quite a bit of money, but local businesses and volunteers donate so much of their time and energy to see this event happen. From creatives to business owners, people from all walks of life come together for the sake of the well-being of our children. The Festival of Trees has a long history, an even longer history than 35 years. The original festival began in 1887. Local auxiliaries worked in conjunction with Mary Bridge Children’s to increase children's access to quality care, raising funding for needs such as transportation and other various services. Thirty-five years ago, the Festival of Trees was allocated to Mary Bridge Children’s as an official event benefiting specific health needs through the health network. But before that, the event was organized by the Mary Bridge Brigade, which just celebrated 100 years of service to the community. Originally founded by a group of Tacoma women, the Mary Bridge Brigade began with a desire to support the children’s hospital. The Mary Bridge Brigade still continues to be an active and vital partner with Mary Bridge Children’s today, a partnership that continues throughout the year organizing events that support the children’s hospital, and a true testament of partnership and collaboration that has now spanned generations, impacting children of countless families. This year's Festival of Trees is themed “It’s a Wonderful Life,” because Mary Bridge Children’s really does make life better for children and their families. Not just today, but ensuring their health and wellbeing throughout their life. Health that continues on to our children’s children, and so forth. This year's co-chairs for the event are a mother/ daughter duo, Charlene Richardson and Lauren Boulanger. They have the honor of following in the footsteps of chairs and volunteers before

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them to create a unique and lasting festival event. For over 20 years they have participated in the Festival of Trees as tree designers, and from 2005 to 2010, they managed the Mary Bridge Brigade Gift Shop. The Festival of Trees really is a legacy of the community, with some tree decorators returning every year since it began under Mary Bridge Children’s. This means that there are some tree decorators that have been a part of the yearly festivities for 35 years— and still going strong. Our community has really embraced the Festival of Trees as an opportunity for celebrating life and well-being throughout the year, as well as to spread generosity during this joyous season. There are so many ways to get involved with Mary Bridge Children’s, from the Mary Bridge Brigade to the yearly events. There are possibilities for sponsorship, partnership, decorators, members, buyers and participants. For more information on how to buy tickets, sponsor trees, decorate trees, or for a link for the tree scavenger app, please visit their website at: FestivalofTreesTacoma.org. Also accessible on the same website is information on the activities of the Mary Bridge Brigade and a list of sponsors.

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Q&A

MARISSA MEYER #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND 28 28 253 253LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE

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"FOR ALL PEOPLE, BEING ABLE TO FEED OURSELVES AND OUR FAMILY IS NUMBER ONE. IT’S BASIC SURVIVAL. WE CAN’T EXPECT PEOPLE TO FUNCTION, MUCH LESS THRIVE, IF THEY’RE HUNGRY. AND I DO BELIEVE IT’S A SOLVABLE ISSUE."

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arissa Meyer is a #1 New York Times bestselling author. She also has deep roots in the South Sound community with a BA in Creative Writing from Pacific Lutheran University. Meyer believes in supporting and giving back to the local community through her work with many local nonprofits. Romantics will love her two new books. “Gilded” is a retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin fairytale with a haunting and romantic edge. It goes on sale November 2, 2021. “Serendipity” is a collection of love stories written by 10 of the brightest and award-winning authors of young adult fiction and edited by Meyer. In addition to her own writing, she also mentors writers as the host of “The Happy Writer” podcast where she shares ways to bring joy to the writing process. Q. With the holidays rapidly approaching, can you share with our readers your work with the Tacoma Toy Rescue Mission and why has that become a holiday tradition for your family? A. When I was growing up, my family had the holiday tradition of going to the Giving Tree at the Tacoma Mall, choosing a child from the tree, and buying a present for them. My husband and I continued similar traditions after we were married—sometimes doing the Giving Tree, sometimes buying gifts for Toys for Tots, and at one point we started to feel like we could be doing more. We both have such enchanted memories of Christmas from when we were kids, and we know that isn’t the reality for a lot of children. My husband had the idea that we should go to Teaching Toys, a locally owned toy store, go on a bit of a shopping spree, then drive all those toys straight to the Tacoma Toy Rescue Mission, which is a fantastic organization that gives toys, books, games, puzzles and more to local kids and families—not just during the holidays, but yearround. These days, the employees at Teaching Toys help us by pulling everything together and having it ready for pickup. Plus, our children are now at an age where we let them pick out some toys to give as well, continuing the tradition from my

childhood. Pulling up to the Toy Rescue Mission with a truck packed full of gifts has become one of the highlights of the whole season for us. Q. With the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity became prevalent in our area. What drew you to work with the Food Lifeline? A. Originally, we had started making donations to Feeding America—I think we saw a billboard in Seattle one day and decided to look them up and were shocked to hear how prevalent food insecurity is, and particularly how many children in America don’t have regular access to food. We immediately felt called to contribute, and not long after that, we were put in touch with some wonderful people at Food Lifeline, the local organization working to end food insecurity in our area. For all people, being able to feed ourselves and our family is number one. It’s basic survival. We can’t expect people to function, much less thrive, if they’re hungry. And I do believe it’s a solvable issue. The problem is rarely a lack of food but more about needing better systems to get that food to the people who need it. I’m so grateful that organizations like Food Lifeline and Feeding America are working to build those systems. Q. Your books feature strong female characters. Why do you think it is important to show women in these roles, especially for your audience of young girls? A. I think it’s important to show that strong can mean a lot of different things. There was a time

in book circles when we would talk about “strong female characters” only as those who fit the Katniss Everdeen model—the girls who are fighters, who are survivors, who have these tough outer shells, or who had stereotypically “masculine” skills. And those characters are great—I love Katniss, and I’ve got a few of them in my books too. But now we’ve broadened the conversation, and readers and writers have embraced this idea that being strong can mean so many different things. A female character might be strong because of her intelligence, her creativity, her courage, her kindness, her willingness to speak her mind or not apologize for what she wants. I think young girls need to know that we are all strong in our own ways—that they are strong in their own way—and it’s okay to embrace that and be proud of it. Q. Washington has been the inspiration for books such as "Dune" and "The Twilight Series." There are so many unique areas to visit in our state. Did any become the inspiration for a setting in any of your books? A. My new novel, "Gilded," is set in a world inspired by 16th century Germany, and while I have been to Germany and drew a lot of inspiration from that trip, I would be lying if I said that our own Bavarian town of Leavenworth wasn’t a huge influence as well! I’ve always loved Leavenworth for its charming, magical vibe, delicious food, and that spirit of community, so I was very much picturing it when I was describing the villages and cities in the book. 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 31

Arts

A BRIGHT FUTURE

Asia Pacific Cultural Center introduces plans for New Building Project BY LYNN CASTLE FOR ASIA PACIFIC CULTURAL CENTER

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sia Pacific Cultural Center is celebrating their 25th Anniversary in 2021, not only reminiscing about their past accomplishments and successes, but also looking to the future with a new Building Project for their existing home. The project will include the rehabilitation of their current 10,500-squarefoot building on South Tacoma Way and the construction of a new wing that will add 8,500 additional feet. Included in the expanded facility will be a gallery space along with cultural display space, a tea room, a martial arts and dance studio, a performance auditorium, a small library, classrooms, a gift shop, and an Asia Pacific garden space. Another exciting addition will be a culinary kitchen that will be utilized to teach Asian culinary skills to aspiring students, preparing them to enter the food industry workforce. APCC will be asking for partnerships with Bates Technology and Clover Park Technical schools to implement these programs. According to APCC executive director, Faaluaina Pritchard, “Our expanded classrooms will also be used to teach entrepreneurship courses, which will be led by successful, local API business leaders volunteering their time to direct the classes and experiences.” She added, “APCC also hopes to partner with the Pierce County Library system to stock and maintain our library in the new facility." Getting the community involved and excited about the new APCC building has certainly been a part of the design process, as demonstrated by their vision for the soon-to-be expanded center. A great example is APCC’s plan to bring API Night Markets, a fun evening shopping extravaganza, to the new center. APCC would like to generate community camaraderie and ensure the surrounding area has a wonderful place to gather and purchase API items. Located in South Park, within the Metro Parks of Tacoma, APCC has simply outgrown their existing building. Always striving to

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meet the needs of the community, APCC spent the last two years working with local agencies and other nonprofits for a multitude of programs, outreach and other service projects, especially in response to the pandemic. Whether it is COVID testing and vaccinations clinics, or food and school supply giveaways, APCC is constantly working to lift up the local neighbors in and around Tacoma and out into Pierce County. The expanded service to the community showcases the need for more, better designed space. “To better meet the needs of the community, the entire space will be upgraded and pull in traditional features and colors from Asian and Pacific Islander cultures,” said Pritchard. The API Garden will focus on the beautiful florals from the islands and gorgeous trees, fountains and sculptures from Asia. Large floor-to-ceiling windows will allow natural light to flow through the building and illuminate the cultural floor displays while creating an inviting museum-like quality. Much-needed office space will be added to better accommodate the APCC staff and their storage needs. APCC will be highlighting the new Building Project during their 25th Anniversary with a Celebration at the Tacoma Convention Center on Saturday, November 6, from 5 to 9pm. Attendees will enjoy a wonderful night of socializing, a delicious dinner, music and cultural performances including a special presentation from South Korea’s Kunjang University. To purchase tickets, visit Bit.ly/apcc25thanniversaryticket. Asia Pacific Cultural Center was established in 1996 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit with a mission to bridge communities and generations through art, culture, education and business. The center served more than 410,000 people throughout Washington in 2020 through many cultural, art, youth, education, and outreach programs and services. The center is located at 4851 South Tacoma Way in Tacoma, Washington. To learn more about APCC, visit their website at APCC96.org or check out their Facebook page at Facebook.com/AsiaPacificCulturalCenter. 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 35

Health S C L E R OT H E R A P Y An easy solution to spider veins

BY BRI WILLIAMS, RN, BSN

reating spider veins can improve the appearance of the skin and help to increase your confidence. With minimal to no downtime, this safe and effective treatment is an excellent option to remove spider veins.

What is sclerotherapy? Sclerotherapy is an in-office treatment for spider veins, the thin red or purple veins on the skin’s surface. A provider injects a sclerosing solution directly into the vein, which irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to scar and collapse. This forces the blood to reroute through healthier veins, while the damaged vein fades away over the next two to six months. What areas can be treated? Sclerotherapy is an excellent option for the treatment of spider veins on the legs, torso and shoulders. Spider veins on the face are better treated with a laser, such as IPL (Intense Pulse Light). How much does sclerotherapy cost? A sclerotherapy treatment generally includes one vial of a sclerosing agent, which is typically enough to treat a surface area approximately the size of a deck of cards. The cost varies depending on region and level of experience but averages $400. How many sessions are recommended? Generally, one to two sessions, six weeks apart, are needed to effectively treat an area. Once effectively treated with sclerotherapy, the results are permanent. However, new spider veins can form at any time, due to genetics and lifestyle. Standing for long periods of time predisposes you to spider veins. You may need additional treatments in the future.

How quickly will I see results? The veins usually start to fade in two to three weeks, with final results visible in two to six months. A follow-up visit is recommended at six weeks to check your progress and assess whether another treatment may be needed. How long does an appointment take? Depending on the number of spider veins that need to be treated, your appointment can range from 15 minutes to an hour. Does sclerotherapy hurt? During your treatment you will feel tiny needle pinches, and occasionally a slight burning or stinging sensation. Following treatment you may experience some cramping, which generally subsides in a day or two. Is there any downtime or recovery after sclerotherapy? Bruising can occur and can last up to a week. Walking is encouraged. For a week following treatment, you should also avoid flying, hot tubs, saunas, hot baths and strenuous activities (like strength training and high-impact aerobics). After treatment, compression bandages or stockings are placed on the legs to prevent the formation of blood clots; these should be worn continuously for the 48 hours following treatment. After the first 48 hours, you may remove the stockings while you sleep, but they should be worn during the day for the next 14 days. If you’re looking to rid yourself of those pesky spider veins, talk to your provider to see if sclerotherapy is right for you.

Sclerotherapy is an excellent option for the treatment of spider veins on the legs, torso and shoulders. 36 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Health KEEPING IT SIMPLE One healthy habit at a time BY MISSI BALISON

s we get ready for 2022, I wanted to share something that will help you create a game-changing year. It’s so simple, and it always works!

Have you ever noticed how successful people all have one basic thing in common? They take small, consistent actions toward their goals … and they don’t stop. It’s like the girl who decides she wants to play basketball and sets a goal to make a specific number of shots a day, every day, no matter what. (Random fact: Many NBA players aim for 500-plus shots a day.) Or the student who goes to the library every night for 90 minutes to study. Or the writer who writes X number of words every day without fail. Or the business owner who tracks their financials every afternoon. There’s a saying that the easiest things to do are also the easiest things not to do. And ironically enough, those are the very same things that can either drive you to your goals … or prevent you from reaching them. It’s easy to decide to do a few stretches at night to help you wind down. It’s also easy to decide not to do them, because you’re too tired or busy. It’s easy to decide to pack your lunch for work. It’s also easy to decide not to do that, because there’s a sandwich shop next to the office. It’s easy to go for an afternoon walk to help beat the post-lunch fatigue, and it’s also easy to grab a cup of coffee instead. More often than not, success has very little to do with a huge 10-point master plan with bullet points and subheadings. It’s small, non-negotiable habits that help you gain traction and make real progress over time. But here’s the thing about creating new habits … We often want to change a bunch of things in hopes that we will get to our goals more

quickly. I mean, it kind of makes sense, right? That is, until you look at these statistics: Creating … One new habit at a time = 85 percent success rate Two new habits at a time = 35 percent success rate Three new habits at a time = 10 percent success rate Keep your habits simple with these simple steps: Choose the one habit. Once you’ve chosen one habit, you will then break that habit into its smallest step. For example, if you want to drink more water, focus on how much you will drink each hour or each quarter of the day. (Break it down to 25-ounce increments from 6am to 9am, 9am to noon, noon to 3pm, 3 to 6pm, for a total of 100 ounces.) Set a trigger. What will remind you every day to do the new habit? In the example mentioned above, it is the time of day. You can set an alarm/ timer to help remind you. Reward yourself! This is key! The brain likes to repeat what it deems as fun and beneficial. Do a little happy dance, put a sticker on a chart, or slide a “rubber-band tracker” up from the bottom of that water bottle. Start now, creating some simple habits that will make you healthier before the busyness of the holiday season hits. You’ll be glad you did! Missi Balison is a personal trainer, exercise physiologist and Certified Precision Nutrition coach.

It’s small, non-negotiable habits that help you gain traction and make real progress over time.

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pinpoint TA C O M A , WA

AN UNCONVENTIONAL APPROACH TO EDUCATION An experience that allows students’ ambition to blossom into purpose, their skills to sharpen into tools, and their caring to become a transformative force

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

rom the classroom to the workforce, Pacific Lutheran University students are inspired and encouraged to investigate, teach, create, serve, and play— with and for their neighbors down the street and around the globe.

Founded in 1890 by Norwegian immigrants and located in the Parkland neighborhood of Tacoma, Washington, PLU continues the distinctive tradition of Lutheran higher education. A commitment to experiential learning— learning by doing—is central in preparing students to make an immediate impact upon graduating. PLU faculty members seek to educate students for lives of thoughtful inquiry, service, leadership, and care—for other people, for their communities, and for the earth. “PLU purposefully integrates the liberal arts, professional studies, and civic engagement in the beautiful Pacific Northwest,” says PLU President Allan Belton. “With distinctive international programs and close student-faculty research opportunities, we help our students discern their life’s vocation through coursework, mentorship, and internships at world-class Puget Soundarea businesses and institutions.” Students come from 40 states and 16 countries, and 33 percent of PLU undergraduates are first-generation college students. For the first time in PLU’s history, the majority of the university’s first-year students identify as students of color. The majority of PLU courses are offered in person, but the university is continuously expanding opportunities for blended and online learning. PLU offers more classes and more majors than most similar-sized private universities. At PLU, students pick from more than 40 majors (business, nursing, psychology,

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and music—which includes music education—have ranked as the top four degrees over the past few years) and 50 minors, along with graduate and professional programs in areas such as business administration, creative writing, education, kinesiology, marketing analytics, marriage and family therapy, and nursing. The university is regularly lauded for its academic rigor, innovation, and commitment to community, while the faculty and staff work to create an environment where learners feel heard and valued. “Professors serve as mentors and collaborators to our students, encouraging them to consider new ways of thinking, to take risks, and to grow,” affirms Provost Joanna Gregson. “Our students are engaged, thoughtful, and ambitious learners. We provide a space for them to tackle the tough questions and work together to solve problems bigger than ourselves.” Students are encouraged to not only rigorously engage in the classroom, but also understand that their mental and physical health, social engagement, and recreation are critical elements to a balanced collegiate experience. PLU administrators understand the importance of an education, and recognize how opportunities to learn and engage aren’t always available to everyone. That’s why the university is leading the way in making a college education more affordable and accessible to students who might not otherwise have the means to pursue a higher education. PLU was recently named the No. 1 university in Washington State and ninth in the country for financial aid by LendEDU, and was ranked third in the West for “Best Value” by U.S. News & World Report. Known for its 253 PLU Bound Full Tuition Scholarship—offered to students who attend high school in Washington State, have a minimum 3.30 weighted cumulative GPA and are College Bound eligible—PLU awards qualifying students full tuition for their four years at PLU through a combination of federal, state, and PLU grants and scholarships, in addition to the College Bound Scholarship. The school also partners with local education nonprofits like Act Six and Palmer Scholars to help support the enrollment and campus success of area students who identify as members of historically underrepresented communities. PLU recently expanded its partnership with Act Six to create additional scholarship and access support for students from the Yakima Valley area. And just last month, PLU announced a Fixed Tuition Guarantee that will ensure that tuition for the 2022-23 incoming class of firstyear and transfer students will remain the same throughout their undergraduate years at the university. “The Fixed Tuition Guarantee ensures that incoming students’ cost of tuition will be locked in, from their first day until their graduation day,” affirms Belton. The university’s PLU Pledge also ensures that once students are employed post-graduation, PLU will help earners who are bringing home less than $50,000 per year repay their student (and parent PLUS) loans. PACIFIC LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY 12180 PARK AVENUE SOUTH TACOMA, WASHINGTON 98447 253.535.7411 PLU.EDU 42 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

“Because of these three initiatives and others, PLU has been widely recognized for its unconventional and trendsetting financial aid, access, and support initiatives,” says Belton.

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Feature SKI THE

NORTHWEST FROM EPIC RESORTS TO THE BEST HIDDEN POWDER BY COLIN ANDERSON

hile there are plenty of Northwest residents who yearn for the first warm days of spring, others can’t wait to see the first snowflakes hit the ground. For these folks, it’s not just winter these next few months—it’s ski season. You’ll find the diehards up early at Chair 1, eager to catch the opening ride up the lift for first tracks upon the previous night’s snowfall. For the avid skier or rider, it’s a better wakeup than any strong cup of coffee or trip to the gym. Shortly after opening, you’ll find the weekend warriors, the second-tier group who spends many a weekend on the slopes but at a slightly more casual pace. They might not catch the first tracks and skip lunch to squeeze in three more runs, but they are out enjoying their time in nature with family and friends. By mid-morning, families and the ski-school crowd fill out the mountain. Little ones get fitted in the rental shop while Mom or Dad go off on their own for a few runs or simply cozy up in the lodge with a book and a hot drink until the day’s lesson is done. It’s a scene that plays out across ski locations all over the Northwest—and one of the great benefits of the mountains of Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, and into Canada, is you can find a place and a pace that fits exactly your experience and enjoyment level. We have resorts where it would take days to hit every run, and independently owned mountains that few more than the locals ever experience. Popularity in skiing and snowboarding among youth continues to soar, and no matter where kids go, instructors are eager to get them up and confident, and usher in the next generation of skiers and riders. While most stick to their favorite mountains or check the morning report to see

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which got the most powder overnight, it’s also fun to venture out to new places and explore new terrain. Below are some of our favorites. May your ski season be blessed with deep powder and bluebird Saturdays! FULL-SERVICE RESORTS Whistler Blackcomb | WhistlerBlackcomb.com About 90 minutes north of Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the most incredible mountain experiences the world has to offer. Whistler Blackcomb is actually two ski areas connected by a peak-to-peak gondola, which is almost worth the price of admission on its own. Outside the breathtaking scenery, this place is massive; over 200 marked runs, 8,100 acres, 16 alpine bowls, and even three glaciers are found within its boundaries. If that wasn’t enough the resort also offers onsite heli-skiing for those in search of untouched powder. Down in the village you can arrange snowmobile and winter zipline tours, or book a relaxing service from the spa. You can also find yourself barreling down a sheet of ice in a bobsled at the sliding center, which was utilized during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Gourmet restaurants (some 200 options) and vibrant nightlife make for a lively evening, and ski in/out lodging make hitting the slopes easy each morning. Whitefish Mountain Resort | SkiWhitefish.com Once a relatively small “locals” mountain, the perfect snow conditions and charming community of Whitefish, Montana, have helped grow the mountain

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into a premier resort destination in the Northwest. You can arrive by car or at the Glacier Park International Airport, or for a truly unique experience, hop on the Amtrak train and finish your journey by being dropped right downtown. On mountain there is beginner terrain, however, more than half of the 3,000 acres is designated black or double black diamond, offering big challenges for thrillseekers. From its peak you can see into Canada and the borders of Glacier National Park, as well as the town of Whitefish and Whitefish Lake. There are a variety of accommodations to choose from on-mountain, and if you stay off property you can catch the free S.N.O.W. shuttle that makes stops throughout town and at popular hotels throughout the day. WEEKEND GETAWAYS Schweitzer | Schweitzer.com Similar to Whitefish size, stature and terrain, Schweitzer offers excellent snow, incredible views, and a village for those looking to do more than just hit the slopes. The snow is fantastic each year, and those in the know head straight for the Outback Bowl, where there are dozens of long, smooth runs and open glades in which to explore. Two high-speed quads, and a high-speed six-pack keep the lift lines moving even on the busiest of days. Grab lunch at the Sky House and, on a clear day, take in amazing views of Sandpoint, Idaho, and massive Lake Pend Oreille in the valley below. There are a dozen restaurants on-mountain, and Sandpoint is also easily walkable for a night on the town. Kids can enjoy tubing, and there are also snowshoeing and cross-country ski tracks in which to explore. Mount Bachelor | MtBachelor.com The iconic mountain outside of Bend, Oregon, is the sixth largest ski area in North America, coming in at more than 4,300 acres, 100 runs, and 3,300 feet of vertical drop. If that’s not enough to lure you for a weekend, you’ll also have the privilege of saying you’ve

One of the great benefits of the mountains of Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, and into Canada, is you can find a place and a pace that fits exactly your experience and enjoyment level. 46 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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ridden down a volcano. While trees are sparse on the peaks of most mountains, here you will find an incredible amount of wide-open bowls in which to charge hard and really dig into incredible powder. Bachelor offers guided snowshoe trail hikes with professional naturalists, tubing and terrain parks, 52 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails, and you can even book a dog sledding trip during your visit. After a day on the slopes, head into nearby Bend, where you will find some 30-plus breweries in which to unwind with a tasty pint. POWDER FORWARD Lookout Pass | SkiLookout.com Idaho is indeed not all potatoes and farmland. In fact, the powder in the north and central parts of the state is legendary—including that at Lookout Pass in Kellogg. Saddled on the Idaho/Montana border on Interstate 90, it’s about as convenient a drive-up location as you can ask for. While most mountains are thankful to receive around 300 inches of snow each season, Lookout regularly sees totals of 400plus, including more than 500 inches of snow as recently as 2018! While it doesn’t boast the terrain of larger mountains in the area, the light, fluffy and deep powder more than makes up for the lack of terrain. The lodge and single bar are come as you are. Many kids from Western Montana, North Idaho and Eastern Washington get their start here at the well-

regarded ski school. A night’s stay in the historic mining towns of Kellogg or Wallace offers a glimpse into the past after a memorable day in the powder. Brundage Mountain |Brundage.com Another of Idaho’s great powder stashes, Brundage brings a few more big-mountain amenities to the game without sacrificing too much of the “local mountain” feel. With its nearest metropolitan area from which to draw—being a 2.5-hour drive from Boise—it doesn’t see the same swells of crowds that other regional resorts do. With a peak of 7,800 feet and nearly 2,000 feet of vertical drop, there is plenty to explore amongst the 67 named trails as well as an additional 420 acres of unpatrolled backcountry. Glades are also a hit here for those who like to get into the trees in search of the really deep snow. Nearby McCall offers everything you need for a comfortable weekend stay. You can rent snowmobiles or explore miles of cross-country ski trails. Enjoy the local ice rink or even soak in one of the numerous nearby hot springs—both primitive and developed.

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HIDDEN GEMS

Red Mountain Resort | RedResort.com

Discovery Basin | SkiDiscovery.com

Fifteen years ago, Red Mountain and the nearby town of Rossland was a relative unknown, likely due to its location being roughly three hours from Spokane, Washington, and across the border into Canada. As interest in exploring British Columbia’s Selkirk Loop has expanded, so has the number of people who’ve come across this absolute gem of a ski hill.

At first glance, the mountain doesn’t look too imposing. The front side of “Disco” offers several intermediate and beginner runs that are perfect for those out for a leisurely day on a lightly crowded mountain. One look at the backside trail map, however, and you’ll see why serious skiers and riders from all over try and make an annual pilgrimage to this relatively small and out-of-the-way locale. The Limelight Chair puts you on top of some of the steepest chutes you’ll find without use of a helicopter. While extremely technical, when the powder is deep, it’s one of the best advanced areas in the West, and after a day of hard charging, even the most physically fit will be ready for a long snooze. Luckily, relaxation is not far away in the quaint town of Phillipsburg, Montana, and the serene beauty of nearby Georgetown Lake.

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Small hotels and bed and breakfasts once were the bulk of the accommodations, but now you’ll find a massive village with ski-in/ ski-out options and many of the amenities of any world-class resort destination. Red boasts five peaks and 3,850 acres to explore. Red Mountain also offers the unique experience of single-run passes for cat skiing at just $10 per run. There are some long runs here, with the max vertical drop checking in at nearly 3,000 feet. While it continues to expand, the resort does work hard at maintaining a local mountain feel. Book your trip here before even more discover it.

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MAY YOUR SKI SEASON BE BLESSED WITH DEEP POWDER AND BLUEBIRD SATURDAYS. REALLY HIDDEN GEMS White Pass | SkiWhitePass.com Where else can you get such a view of several of Washington’s biggest natural icons while strapped into your board or skis? On a clear day, unobstructed views of Mount Adams and Mount Rainier provide the backdrop for one of the truly beautiful skiing locations in the West. The views alone will bring you great appreciation for this special place. It’s a great mountain for the whole family, as there is a lodge onsite as well as childcare available (see latest COVID info for availability) for those little ones not quite ready to hit the slopes. There is also a tubing hill and guided snowshoe tours. Once off the slopes, there are plenty of opportunities to relax, and short drives to explore the surrounding scenery are also a great way to take in this special place. Lost Trail | LostTrail.com If glitz and glamour and the corporate ski experience are things you loathe, you’ll find the peace and family forward experience you seek at one of Montana’s best-kept secrets. Opened in 1938, Lost Trail is still owned and operated by the Grasser family today. Their mission is to continue to operate a small family oriented mountain where incredible snow can also be affordable. Ticket prices are half the price of most large-scale resorts, but the dry powder and conditions here are legendary to those who make the trek down Montana’s gorgeous Bitterroot Valley. There are all kinds of unique places to stay nearby including rustic cabins, bed and breakfasts, and wood-fire warmed yurts found on the backside of the mountain. While not easy to get to, the experience of minimal lift lines, few frills and wonderful powder is something that’s getting harder and harder to come by each season, making this a truly unique experience. There are even more gems hiding in plain sight all throughout the Northwest. Will you find a new favorite this season?

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE INCOME ANALYSIS ON ANY PROPERTY GoSandpoint.com • 208.610.4416 • Jackson@GoSandpoint.com 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 53

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November 2021

THE HOLIDAY SEASON HAS

ARRIVED IT’S TIME TO GET SHOPPING AT ONE OF THESE LOCAL SEASONAL MARKETS! By Jillian Chandler

‘T

is the season of holiday markets! There’s nothing like finding dozens of fabulous vendors all in one place for you to get your holiday—or just plain any day—shopping accomplished. By visiting one of these area holiday markets, you’re sure to discover that perfect gift for those special people in your life. Set for Friday and Saturday, November 12 and 13, The Great Junk Hunt Puyallup invites shoppers to their annual holiday market. Held at the Washington State Fairgrounds, you’ll find more than 90,000 square feet of the freshest “junk” around—and some of the best vendors on the West Coast. In addition to curated vendors selling their best goods, with aisles of junkin’ treasure (think farmhouse, industrial, vintage, repurposed and handmade), the two-day event will also have cocktails and live music onsite. Tickets to attend must be purchased prior to the event, as tickets will not be sold at the door. For additional details about The Great Junk Hunt, and to purchase tickets, visit TheGreatJunkHunt. com/tacoma-puyallup-wa-vintage-market. Kicking off the same day as The Great Junk Hunt but continuing through December 19 is the Red Barn Holiday Market. The event takes place at the Red Barn (14407 94th Avenue East in Puyallup). Here attendees can shop everything from unique handmade home and holiday décor to antiques, and new and used items of all kinds. Variety

is a given, as the Red Barn Holiday Market will feature more than 30 crafters and vendors. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there too, along with a photographer to snap that perfect holiday shot. The fun takes place each weekend, Friday through Sunday. Hours are 11am to 6pm Friday, 10am to 8pm Saturday, and 11am to 6pm Sunday. For additional details, visit Facebook.com/puyallupredbarnmarket. The Tacoma Holiday Market Extravaganza is scheduled for Sunday, November 21. Held at the Tacoma Mall (4502 South Steele Street) from 11am to 7pm, this full day of shopping will feature 30 local vendors, giveaways, pictures with Santa, holiday music and more! Hosted by Washington Shoppers Market, you can find out more by searching the event on Facebook. You can "Shop Small" along “The Row.” With more than 25 shops along Antique Row in Tacoma filled with one-of-a-kind items to make your own or to gift others, strolling Antique Row definitely beats shopping at those crowded big box stores. Shopping locally is easy, so head out to Antique Row, and your other favorite local shopping destinations, on November 27 in collaboration with Shop Small Saturday. You can show your love for small businesses, not just on November 27, but every day. Now … get shopping!

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FOR EV ENTS, VI SIT 253LI FESTYL EMAGAZINE.COM.

/ November

ENTERTAINMENT

RISE TO THE RESCUE GALA 2021 Empact Northwest presents Rise to the Rescue Gala Saturday, November 20, at Titlow Lodge in Tacoma. Held 5 to 8pm, the event features dinner, drinks, live and silent auction, raffle and dessert dash. Empact Northwest staff and guests will follow all current state guidelines regarding COVID-19 for the night of the event, taking precautions to ensure guests’ safety. Gala tickets, which are priced at $50 per person and include admission and dinner, can be purchased online at Bit.ly/RiseRescue2021. Funds raised will benefit the disaster relief and rescue nonprofit, Empact Northwest, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing immediate disaster response, rescue training and community preparedness assistance.

ANNUAL TACOMA CITY TURKEY TROT

2602

ZOOLIGHTS

JANUARY

The Tacoma City Turkey Trot is a family affair! Offering a 5k run/walk and a 1k Kids Run in Tacoma's beautiful Proctor District, this Thanksgiving morning event is a wonderful way to start the holiday. Both the 5k and kids 1k begin and end at Fleet Feet Sports (3812 North 26th Street), with the 5k starting at 9am, followed by the 1k at 10:15am. Registration, which can be done online at TCMAEvents.com/turkey-trot, is priced $55 for adults ($60 November 22 through 24), with the Kids Run, for ages 12 and younger, just $10. And ... every finisher receives a medal!

Zoolights is back at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium! From November 26 through January 2 (closed December 24 and 25), this holiday tradition boasts more than 700,000 colorful LED lights and dozens of dazzling 3D animal light displays. Enjoyable for the whole family, zoo guests will see their favorite light displays, with all the classics and some new ones! In addition, zoo guests can walk through two Tunnels of Lights, as they've added a second tunnel due to its popularity! Hours are 4:30 to 10pm nightly. For additional details, and to purchase tickets, visit PDZA.org/zoolightstickets.

* Please note, as of press time, these events were still scheduled to take place as planned. Due to the continuing pandemic, there is the possibility that event schedules may change or events canceled completely. Be sure to visit event websites to stay up to date with current information.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS ONLINE! Want your event to appear on the largest event site in the Northwest? Submit your events to us online at Events.DirectoryNorthwest.com 24/7, 365 days a year!

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Celebrate WITH BBQ CATERING! Gather your friends and pals together for the holidays and to welcome the New Year.

253.313.5656

Learn more & check out our catering menu at TEXASBBQ2U.COM 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 57

Eat & Drink

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RUSTIC MUSHROOM SOUP Recipe Courtesy of Tina VanDenHeuvel-Cook, NTP, NHC You can follow Tina @madebetterforyou on Instagram

INGREDIENTS: 3 tbsp. butter 2 cups chopped onions 1 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced (any kind; a mix is best) 2 tsp. dried dill weed 1 tbsp. paprika 1 tbsp. coconut aminos 2 cups chicken bone broth 1 can full fat coconut milk 1/2 tsp. xanthan gum 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup sour cream 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley ground black pepper and salt to taste

METHOD: • Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 5 more minutes. Stir in the dill, paprika, coconut aminos and broth. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. • Whisk the coconut milk and xanthan gum together in a separate bowl. Pour into the soup and stir well. Cover and simmer for 15 more minutes, stirring occasionally. • Finally, stir in the ground black pepper, salt, lemon juice and sour cream. Mix together and allow to heat over low heat, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm. Top with fresh chopped parsley, and enjoy!

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Travel SPEND THANKSGIVING AT A DESTINATION RESORT WHERE THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN SIT BACK AND RELAX

BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

amily Thanksgiving dinners are always wonderful affairs with plenty of good food and spending time with family. But the work that takes place in the kitchen, year after year, to plan, prepare and present these beautiful meals never ceases to overwhelm. This year, take a break from tradition—and the stress that comes with it—to head off to a destination resort for a fun holiday … and leave the cooking to the professionals.

The Ranch at Rock Creek The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana, is the priciest of the bunch, but they specialize in gatherings for families and received the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award for the past seven years. Luxury accommodations include farm-to-table meals and a robust year-round outdoor activities program. They will even pick you up from the Missoula or Butte, Montana, airports if requested. The ranch is nestled in a pristine valley and is a historic 19th century homestead. It is a guest ranch, but this is not a rustic experience. This all-inclusive vacation is filled with lavish amenities. Thanksgiving week at the ranch is bursting with activities. Pick an activity each morning and afternoon during your stay including cross-country mountain biking, hiking expeditions, horseback riding, archery, shooting, geo tagging, and even fly fishing on the Blue Ribbon trout stream. Thanksgiving dinner is served in the Granite Lodge. Chef Josh Drage takes traditional Thanksgiving fare and infuses favorites from Montana’s bountiful harvest into multiple courses. Insider Tip: Take a horseback ride or hike to “The Top of the World” at 6,200 feet. The gorgeous views really make you feel like you are at the top of the world.

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The Alderbrook Resort and Spa This luxurious resort is set on the banks of the Hood Canal, a natural fjord, and surrounded by old-growth trees in Union, Washington. It is the perfect basecamp to explore the Hood Canal area, the Olympic Peninsula and the national park. This is the nicest resort in the area with updated accommodations and great amenities. The lovely landscaped grounds make the most of the beautiful trees onsite, and it feels as if the resort was plunked down amid a forest. Shinrin Yoku, or Forest Bathing, is a popular activity at the resort. The phytoncides, or essential oils, found in the woods have healthful effects on your body. Pick up a brochure at the front desk and then head across the street to the network of private nature trails. You can hike for miles on these well-marked paths surrounded by huge trees. In fact, there is even a trail, the Big Tree Loop, that highlights them. There are plenty of comfortable benches lining the trails so you can sit and enjoy the natural soothing sounds of nature. The resort also offers guided fungi walks every Friday with Morgan Scherer, Alderbrook’s resident naturalist. It is peak mushroom season in the fall, and you can take home what you forage. You can enjoy a great meal in the restaurant, but there are also unique Culinary Adventures you should try—especially if you are with a large family group (minimum of 10). The Gathering Grove experience begins with a knowledgeable guide who leads you through an old-growth forest, where you will learn about local foraging and mushrooms. Enjoy a meal crafted from the bounty of Washington state and the Alderbrook Resort’s edible landscape. Another option is to board the Lady Alderbrook, the resort’s private yacht, 62 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

where you can enjoy a dinner cruise through the glacier-carved Hood Canal. The Lady Alderbrook can also transport you to the historic marina 2 miles away for a Canal Cookout at the Union City Market. The chef and team will prepare a locally sourced and season-inspired meal for you and your guests to enjoy. A truly memorable experience. The Lakedale Resort The charming Lakedale Resort on San Juan Island, Washington, is super popular in the summer months and bustling with activity. Beginning in late fall, after the campground closes for the season, things slow down, and the resort becomes a peaceful oasis to get away from it all. With 82 acres, there is plenty of room to roam, and weather permitting, there are 40 acres of freshwater lakes to fish or paddle upon. It is a great location to explore San Juan Island. Currently the resort is offering several Fall and Winter Packages that offer 25 percent off lodging and other amenities. For families, the darling log cabins offer plenty of space and include gas fireplaces and large cedar decks. Plan at least one outdoor meal with the grill and enjoy a roaring campfire. There is no cable, but the resort has a DVD library, and each cabin has plenty of old-school board games. If you are looking for a more romantic getaway, try glamping at one of Lakedale’s luxury yurts. Situated in a forest overlooking a lake, this opulent camping experience will have you enjoying a private outdoor hot tub and then snuggling into a king-size bed with a warm flannel duvet. Though there’s no kitchen, there is a refrigerator and microwave, as well as an outdoor grill. The resort also has lodge rooms, though these do not allow children under age 16.

Julie Reed WASHINGTON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Contact MeToday Julie@like-media.com 253.363.8832

Creative Marketing Made Simple! 253LifestyleMagazine.com

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When it’s mealtime, you can cook onsite or head into Friday Harbor, the island’s main town, or out to Roche Harbor Resort for McMillin’s Dining Room’s famed 10-hour roasted prime rib—which has been a mainstay since 1958. Many local restaurants will have specials for Thanksgiving Day meals. The Coho Restaurant offers a Thanksgiving feast as well as fall wine dinners. The San Juan Island Thanksgiving Dinner is a local tradition held at the Mullis Community Center in Friday Harbor with the cost by donation, and you can bring a pie to share. The 2020 event was takeout due to COVID-19, so visit the website for the specifics for 2021. The holiday season on the islands is just lovely with all the small towns decorated with twinkling lights beginning Thanksgiving weekend. It is the perfect time to get in some holiday shopping without all the crowds on the mainland. The Island Artisans Holiday Market takes place during the holiday weekend at the San Juan County Fairgrounds. This event supports local artisans, and a portion of the proceeds from your purchases goes to the Artists to Island Artisans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which has awarded art scholarships to graduating seniors in San Juan County for over 43 years. Insider Tip: Make sure to make a reservation for the Washington State Ferry to get to San Juan Island. The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is the perfect time to venture out to a destination resort. Make sure to pick one within driving distance, as air travel for the 2021 holiday season is setting up to be quite challenging with a surge of demand and not all airlines at 100 percent capacity yet. With the COVID-19 pandemic still a factor, a getaway to the great outdoors is much more appealing than joining the hordes of people at airports around the country.

The Specifics THE RANCH AT ROCK CREEK TheRanchatRockCreek.com THE ALDERBROOK RESORT AND SPA AlderbrookResort.com THE LAKEDALE RESORT Lakedale.com

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