October 2020 253 Lifestyle

ISSUE NO.22

OCTOBER 2020

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Hilltop Artists

YOUTH ARTISTS SHOW US THAT WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

Q&A WITH GENE JUAREZ FOUNDER OF GENE JUAREZ SALONS

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This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or a commitment to lend. Other limitations may apply. Š2014 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation FIMC NMLS ID#2289 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) EQUAL HOUSING LENDER WA. License Number MLO-248580.

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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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MARKETING WASHINGTON DIRECTOR Cassie Riendeau | 360.798.3061 cassie@like-media.com WASHINGTON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Julie Reed | 253.273.8524 julie@like-media.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Jillian Chandler | jillian@like-media.com STAFF WRITERS Colin Anderson | colin@like-media.com Abigail Thorpe | abigail@like-media.com

DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR | Maddie Horton LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Darbey Russo GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Kennedy Pew DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR | Whitney Lebsock

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

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 of life in this great community through system reliability, helping you conserve and use electricity more efficiently and rising to the challenges

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PHOTOGRAPHY Pavel Vebrovski and Hilltop Artists, Samantha Elise Tillman, Marguerite Cleveland, Tina VanDenHeuvel, Angela Orr - Oregon Coalition of Police & Sheriffs, Anaheim Police Department, Permission To Start Dreaming Foundation

of a rapidly changing industry.

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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

A Powerful Community AS FAMILIES HAVE BEGUN THE TRANSITION INTO FALL WITH THE RETURN OF SCHOOL, FALL SPORT AND OTHER ACTIVITIES, many of our neighboring communities are yet again struggling with new hardships, as fires have come in fiercely. From California and Oregon to Washington and Idaho, our safety is once again being threatened.

As devastating as this is, it again reminds me of the true heroes that surround us daily; those battling the fires first-hand, sacrificing their safety for the welfare of us all, as well as the officers ensuring that those who are forced to evacuate from their homes do so safely. And then there are those in the community who have opened up their homes for those who have lost theirs; sharing what they have with those who have lost so much.

Each day comes with blessings as well as hardships. We have seen this more during the recent months than we have in a very long time.

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THE NEW FACE OF DINING OUT

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Q&A WITH GENE JUAREZ, FOUNDER OF GENE JUAREZ SALONS

But our communities are strong, and no matter the battle, we will prevail and come out with a new hope and a strength that we didn’t know we had.

Here at Like Media, we are fortunate to share with our readers all the positive that can be found around us, even when in the midst of crisis. As you flip through the pages of this month’s issue and read our uplifting stories, we hope that you are inspired by the people and organizations we highlight, while also showing your support to our advertisers, who help make it possible for us to bring you 253 Lifestyle Magazine each month. We pray that despite the negativity that you see through to the positive that can be found.

Each day is a blessing, and it is up to us to move forward and focus on—and create—a brighter future for ourselves, our families, our friends and neighbors.

60

GET AWAY WITH A FALL VISIT TO LOPEZ ISLAND

44

RIDE 4 RELIEF: CROSSCOUNTRY RIDE FOR PTSD AWARENESS

Real Estate Q&A with Heidi!

Q. We’re having trouble getting offers accepted due to the contingency of our home sale. What do you recommend?

A. There are many other options to help you buy first without the contingency. Bridge loans, Equity loans and purchasing with minimal down prior to sale, and then doing a recast after. If your lender isn’t giving you these options, I can refer you! Good luck!

Send real estate questions to Heidi at Pugetsoundbroker@gmail.com or (253) 888.9592!

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CONTENTS 12

16

22

28

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H OME Home Prepping for Winter: Keeping your home warm and cozy all winter long

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28 Q& A

HE ALT H & LIF E S TY L E

The New Face of Dining Out: How Northwest restaurants are redefining the face of traditional restaurant dining

Q&A with Gene Juarez, Founder of Gene Juarez Salons

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

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32

40

TR E NDING

TACOMA FO CUS Hilltop Artists: Youth artists show us that we’re stronger together

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ART S

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

Virtual is the New Live: Tacoma Arts Live to present The Muse Hour: a four-event virtual series this fall

Ampro Builders LLC: “No Shortcut to Quality”

sneak peek into October ...

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60 ISSUE NO.22

OCTOBER 2020

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Hilltop Artists

YOUTH ARTISTS SHOW US THAT WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

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F E ATUR E

FAL L R ECIP E

Ride 4 Relief: PTSD survivor advocating for the health and support of his peers

Apple Crisp and Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

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60

ENTE RTA I NMENT

TRAV E L & LE IS U R E

The events and autumn fun that you don’t want to miss out on!

Get Away with a Fall Visit to Lopez Island: The most rural of the three major San Juan Islands

Q&A WITH GENE JUAREZ FOUNDER OF GENE JUAREZ SALONS

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About The Cover On this month’s cover, we are excited and honored to feature Gene Juarez, a local business icon and visionary behind Gene Juarez Salons. With humble roots as a mom-and-pop salon, Juarez would turn it into a Pacific Northwest empire, also becoming the official salon and spa sponsor of the Seattle Seahawks Dancers. Read more about his commitment to his work, the community and environment in our Q&A with Gene Juarez on page 28.

Photo by Samantha Elise Tillman

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Home

Home Prepping for Winter KEEPING YOUR HOME WARM AND COZY ALL WINTER LONG

BY NIKKI LUTTMANN, INTERIOR DESIGNER

A

utumn has always been my favorite time of year. I love the changing of the leaves, the deep reds and golds that brighten up our landscape, and the thought of spending time indoors beside a warm fire. This year, it seems that the signs are pointing to a cold and rainy winter season. Berries are heavy on the trees, the squirrels are extra busy stashing nuts and seeds, and it sounds like La Nina might be showing her face this winter, meaning frigid temperatures for us in the Pacific Northwest.

When it comes to home maintenance, we can take a lesson from nature. Preparedness is the key to staying warm, cozy and worry-free all winter long. The following checklist is a good refresher for those of you who are long-time Washington residents, and a must-do for those of you who are new to the area. Though I’m an interior designer, I’ve seen my fair share of damage caused by winter cold and storms. I’m often brought in after the fact to help restore the home to what it was, but often the damage could have been prevented with a little prep and some elbow grease (yours or a professional’s) before the onset of winter.

1. If you have a crawl space, be sure to close your vents. This prevents your plumbing and other utilities under the house from freezing.

It’s also a good idea to double check any insulation you might have in your crawlspace and attic. Pests have been known to gnaw away at insulating material around pipes and openings, creating a space where cold air can get in and do damage.

2. Check your gutters. Having your gutters cleaned not only keeps water flowing away from the house, where it should, but also keeps ice and other material from clogging them further, creating a hazard that can damage your roof.

3. Have a professional check your heating system, especially if you are dependent in any way on wood heat for the winter, this is a must.

Creosote can build up in your flue, causing a possible fire hazard that many of us are unaware of.

4. Have your exterior plumbing drained and turned off. Exterior plumbing issues, such as frozen pipes, can cause interior and exterior damage when the weather gets very cold, due to burst pipes when the ice expands inside.

5. If you leave for the winter, do not turn off your heat completely. I realize that many people do this, but you are much better off turning the heat to 55 degrees and leaving it there for the winter. Freezing temperatures inside a home can damage drywall, flooring, cabinetry, plumbing, even the framing of your home. Leaving the heat on at a low temperature keeps your finishes from suffering damage and makes

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for a happy homeowner in the spring when you return!

6. If you live in a location where power goes out frequently, it is a good idea to invest in a generator. This ensures a safe and warm winter should the power go out for an extended time.

7. Have your septic tank pumped before winter sets in. Not only is it very difficult to locate and open a septic tank when it is under snow, but a full septic tank is also more likely to back up in early spring when the ground is saturated and more difficult to percolate the discharge into the drain field.

8. Check your windows and doors for a good seal. Poor seals on doors and windows are a leading cause of utility bill creepage in the winter months. After all, it’s expensive to heat the outdoors!

9. If you have a basement with a sump-pump, do make sure the pump is in working order. There is nothing worse than coming down the stairs to your basement and finding it flooded. I’ve re-done countless basements where the water table is high after a failed sump-pump led to a flood situation. These are never fun!

10. Finally, check the trees around your home. Trees can do major damage if they are not in good health. Have dead branches removed, as well as any trees that are deemed a hazard. I can only imagine the devastation and terror that would accompany a tree coming down through someone’s home. While this is not always preventable, proper maintenance at least limits the possibility of this tragedy occurring.

While the above list may not be the most fun aspect of home ownership, these are certainly necessary items to cross off your to-do list. While I love working with people on remodeling their homes, I’d like it to be on their terms, not because of an insurance claim or the wrath of Old Man Winter!

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Trending THE NEW FACE OF DINING OUT How Northwest restaurants are redefining the face of traditional restaurant dining

By Abigail Thorpe

I

f COVID-19 has altered many things in our day-to-day lives, perhaps one most noticeable in our social lives is the restaurant scene. New laws and concerns over protecting the health of both patrons and staff have completely changed the way we dine out, perhaps forever. But this doesn’t mean the changes are all for the worse. To face the challenges of the times, restaurants have had to adapt—in many ways just to stay alive, but also to redefine and expand what we traditionally think of as “going out.”

In many ways it has blurred the lines between cooking at home or dining out. From more spacious dining rooms to expanded outdoor seating, creative dining concepts and food trucks, our Northwest restaurateurs have redefined the experience of eating out. Here are some of the ways they’ve brought positive change to an industry that is currently facing so many hurdles.

Meal Kits When restaurants completely closed down to dine-in options during the pandemic, many responded with creative take-home meal kit options for individuals and families to prepare meals (or cocktails) at home.

Addo in Seattle sold sought-after tasting menus (booked in advance) before COVID-19. Owner and chef Eric Rivera quickly pivoted to an innovative new meal kit delivery program: He’d deliver the

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With limited guest/staff interaction and a naturally socially distanced outdoor environment, food trucks provide the perfect option to dine out of home. ingredients and groceries, and “diners” could jump on zoom to learn how to prepare the meal together. The meal kit trend has continued, and they still offer a Chef ’s Choice Five Course Dinner at Home option.

But it’s not just family or five course meal kits that are hitting the menu—make-at-home cocktails kits have become standard for many restaurants in the Northwest, particularly as restaurants experience early closing hours or limited on-premise dining and alcohol consumption.

Food Trucks Food trucks have been having a moment for a while, and COVID has only stoked that fire. With limited guest/staff interaction and a naturally socially distanced outdoor environment, food trucks provide the perfect option to dine out of home, typically on the cheap. You can find them springing up everywhere throughout towns and cities in the Northwest—like Prairie Pavilion in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, an outdoor food truck court where customers can source everything from burritos and coffee to tacos, pizzas and healthy eats.

Even drive-up food truck options became the solution for fair food lovers looking to get their fix in face of a canceled North Idaho Fair: Fair Food Fix allowed visitors to drive-up to all of their

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favorite fair food vendors for a safe fill of their once-a-year fix.

Drive-Through Concepts for Fine Dining In many areas, fine dining establishments had to change their offerings, and fast. But the results in many cases were (and still are) positive. Canlis in Seattle shut down its dining room in March— recognizing fine dining was not what Seattle needed. Instead, they offered drive-through bagel and breakfast sandwiches in the morning, and burgers, salads and ice-cream in the afternoon and evenings.

Today, you can find family meal kits available from the beloved fine-dining establishment, along with the Crab Shack—an outdoor restaurant in their parking lot featuring buckets of crabs and “copious amounts of hand sanitizer.”

Pre-order and Mobile Options Mobile has completely transformed the way we transact business at restaurants—from mobile ordering apps for everything from your favorite local coffee (think the Joe Coffee app for all you Evans Brothers fans) to full dinners, it’s never been easier to order food to go in advance. Even as restaurants have started opening inhouse dining, the mobile trend has carried into the establishment.

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after each use, many restaurants—like Pend d’Oreille Winery in Sandpoint—are opting for digital barcode menu options people only need a smartphone to access.

Merged Dining Concepts A new concept of dining that benefits a local nonprofit is taking center stage in Spokane: Bark, a Rescue Pub was opened by the owner of Nectar Catering and Events. Patrons can enjoy a meal and a cocktail while meeting their future best fur friend at the world’s first concept combination restaurant with a pet adoption service, in partnership with the Spokane Humane Society. This concept of merging dining experiences with other experiences is something people look for more and more: not just a night out, but a unique experience.

Outdoor Expansion Outdoor dining is having a moment—a big moment. From expanding seating into parking lots and vacant lots, to adding new outdoor spaces, restaurants are looking for ways to keep the experience outdoors—

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particularly in establishments currently not offering indoor dining.

At places like Matchwood Brewing in Sandpoint, patrons came to expect (and love) the large outdoor space that allowed the brews and food to still flow while indoor seating was still closed. With winter approaching, many restaurants are finding ways to keep the outdoors alive: from covered patios to heat lamps and igloos, and everything in between.

Takeout and Delivery Takeout and delivery are here to stay. They’ve become a staple in our diet, and even restaurants that didn’t used to offer takeout options now offer some type of take-home, even if the menu is more limited or ever-changing.

The dining experience we knew before has changed—and still is evolving before our eyes. But with all of the chaos, change and uncertainty, one thing is for sure: Restaurants will find a way to keep our stomachs full and our hearts happy, one way or another.

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Tacoma HILLTOP ARTISTS

YOUTH ARTISTS SHOW US THAT WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

By Rachel Kelly

T

he world never just stops. Even if on the outside all the hustle and bustle of the public world seems to decrease, the world behind our doors only expands. For some the colors get brighter, and the sounds become crisper. For others, everything seems a bit dimmer as they struggle through this season alone. Artists help us bridge that gap between sight and expression, putting emotion into our hands. Making sense of it all for us. For Hilltop Artists, “making sense” of today’s obstacles means providing youth with the power of self-realization through art. Ensuring that no one struggles alone. One furnace or torch at a time, Hilltop Artists brings a little light to Tacoma.

Hilltop Artists was originally founded through a partnership between artist Dale Chihuly and gallery owner Kathy Kaperick, as well as a slew of community donors and world-renowned artists. Hilltop Artists has always been a community supported nonprofit. The importance of these community partnerships is especially apparent now when youth are at a loss for something to do and a place to go. During this pandemic, students have created art that they have been able to enjoy outdoors—keeping kids active, safe, socially distant, but still connected to their communities. Through a partnership with Alchemy Skateboarding, students have taken their art to the streets through the creation of their own skateboards.

Not only has Hilltop Artists brought their art to the streets, but they’ve also brought art into homes. Adjusting the nonprofit to the needs of their participants, Hilltop Artists has been delivering art kits with instructions and quality equipment. They then meet virtually with Arts Connect and Team Production students to discuss what they’ve

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made or to deliver online instruction. Staff has also been hard at work to create tools and mechanisms for creating glass art without blowing in preparation for a return to their hot shops. It’s obvious that the staff at Hilltop Artists are well connected to their students, meeting them where they’re at, providing mentorship, resources and activity. The core of what they do is art, but the product of what they do is relationship.

It’s within this ebb and flow of relationship that participants find their voice, their confidence, and their incredible capacity for doing something worthwhile. Glass making, specifically, is a very team-based activity. Making glass requires learning a variety of roles; roles that require decision making, compromise, critical thinking, conversation and failure. Failure is a big part of the process, since glass is a fragile medium. It’s in failure that students learn the essential task of acceptance and forward movement. That when something breaks, it’s not over.

Art is unique in that it provides a snapshot into the soul and a sight into emotion. Talking about projects, and collaborating with each other to make projects, opens up opportunities for conversation. The staff at Hilltop Artists are then allowed into the everyday lives of their students. For instance, they know if one of their students is ageing out of the foster care system. They know about their student’s struggles with housing, food insecurity, and transportation.

They might slip in a bus pass, a gift card, or connect students with outreach services when delivering their activity kits.

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IS ART, BUT THE PRODUCT OF

WHAT THEY DO IS RELATIONSHIP.

This dedication to high quality art for youth has made Hilltop Artists unique—they are the only middle school glass blowing program in the U.S. Allowing youth to access a normally expensive medium catapults youth toward a higher quality of work. Glass is a collaborative art medium, kinesthetic. It requires the artists to shape their work, forming their thoughts into something with their hands. Glass provides vocational training for realworld applications—many students have graduated toward new opportunities in colleges, universities and community programs.

Hilltop Artists have been so successful that they recently started an alumni program for students who want to pour their skills back into their community after aging out at 21. It took a generation for the nonprofit to evolve to where it is today: a solid community resource that garners results. The job of Hilltop Artists now is to ensure that its programs continue into the future.

This is why they have transformed their programs to meet student needs during the COVID-19 pandemic; youth cannot afford

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to go without Hilltop Artists for what has been a six-month life upheaval. Currently, students over age 18 are hard at work creating glass art for their annual Better Futures Luncheon, which this year is the Better Futures Celebration Week. This is their largest yearly fundraiser, and this year it goes virtual. On October 13 through the 16, community donors will have the opportunity to bid on student artwork. The event will kick off on Zoom on the afternoon of October 13. The bidding will continue through 8pm on the evening of the 16th. Last year, so many people were encouraged by the youth stories shared at the luncheon, that 50 people signed up for the monthly giving membership program called the Murrini Club. Youth stories will still be a big part of this year’s event. Community members can sign up as “Table Captains’’ if they want to advocate for community support and organize team bidding. Or, if you wish to sign up for Zoom testimonials and the online bidding store only, you can visit their website at HilltopArtists.org and sign up as a guest.

With community support, our youth will continue to thrive under the watchful eye of Hilltop Artists and their community partnerships. One by one, organizations come together to form a support system for our youth that is bolstered by collaborative projects such as The Arts and Culture Coalition of Pierce County, the Youth Serving Agencies Network of the Pierce County Juvenile Court System, and Tacoma Public Schools. Through collective action and individual efforts, Hilltop Artists can offer new opportunities and hedge out brighter futures for youth left at a loose end, proving the old adage that “many hands make light work.” Together we make light work of today’s obstacles, and we are stronger for it.

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Q&A

GENE

JUAREZ

FOUNDER OF GENE JUAREZ SALONS

BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

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“GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY AND SHARING OUR SUCCESS IS IMPORTANT. CURRENTLY EACH GENE JUAREZ SALON PROVIDES SUPPORT TO A LOCAL CHARITY BY PROVIDING VOLUNTEERS, RAISING MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR THAT NONPROFIT.”

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I

f you wanted to write a Great American Success Story, it would be Gene Juarez.

He is the youngest of six children to Mexican farm laborers. In his early days, his parents followed the crops before settling down in Wapato, Washington, a small town in Eastern Washington whose main industry is agriculture. “My dad’s fondest wish was that I would have an indoor job when I grew up,” says Juarez. “I think he meant a warehouse job.” He fulfilled his father’s dream, but it was not to be in agriculture. Juarez had two things going for him: He was great with people and excelled at art and design classes in high school. He wanted a job where he could combine both skills, and hair was a perfect profession for him. A scholarship helped launch his dream. He eventually owned his own mom-and-pop salon that turned into a beauty empire in Seattle and Tacoma. When he sold his company in 2006, there were eight Gene Juarez Salons and Spas with revenues around $75 million. Juarez is still actively involved with the company as a consultant. For more than 49 years, Gene Juarez Salons & Spas have provided beauty and wellness services to the local community, a legacy his father is sure to be proud of.

Q. Gene Juarez Salons & Spas has a long history of supporting the local community.

Why is this important?

A. I am very proud of being a Hispanic hairdresser, and the key to my success is a great staff who is like family and all the people I’ve worked with. I am incredibly grateful to all the support that helped me take a mom-and-pop salon and turn it into a successful business model. Giving back to the community and sharing our success is important. Currently each Gene Juarez Salon provides support to a local charity by providing volunteers, raising money and awareness for that nonprofit. Recent partnerships include The Ruby Room, Olive Crest, HOPEcrew Outreach, YouthCare, Seattle Humane, Union Gospel Mission, Night to Shine,

Treehouse, Bridge of Promise, Mary’s Place, Wishing Well, St. Baldrick’s and Bloodworks Northwest. The home office also provides over 200 community contributions a year.

Q. Can you share with our readers about your commitment to the environment?

A. Commitment to the environment has always been one of our company’s core values.

Our world is one we can destroy quickly, or we can work to save our environment. Gene Juarez Salons are part of the Green Circle Salon movement. We are a Certified Sustainable Salon and work to protect the planet by collecting our beauty waste, which includes hair clippings, used foils, color tubes, excess hair color and much more. This waste is shipped to Green Circle Salons, who works with their partners to turn it into new products or clean energy. Since the start of this program we have reduced our service waste by 95 percent.

Q. Can you share how your hair salons help improve the self-esteem of your clientele?

A. I honestly believe in this time of COVID-19 that we are an essential service based on the response when we reopened. We were slammed once the salons were able to reopen, and we had lots of clients asking if we could do services at home. We help people nonverbally project who they are on the inside. A stylist actually has a license to touch. Our training is extensive and includes learning about infectious diseases.

Q. Gene Juarez Salons & Spas are the official salon and spa sponsor of the Seattle Seahawks Dancers. Are there any special challenges, especially with Seattle’s notorious weather, getting the dancers game-day ready?

A. The dancers come to our salons to get gameday ready. The key is choosing a type of makeup that doesn’t run. Each woman has a different hair texture. You must respect the texture of the hair to pick the right style and product for each person. Gene Juarez Salons is proud to be the official beauty and wellness sponsor of the Seattle Seahawks Dancers. Our stylists make sure their hair, nails and skin always look great for game day.

Q. Can you share with our readers your philosophy on hairstyle?

A. I look at hair as an accessory to fashion.

I studied fashion, and our partnership with Nordstrom over the years helped me keep up with the trends. Just like hems go up and down and fashion changes, so does hair. It was important to me to be able to forecast the direction of fashion and how our hairstyles will complement those styles as an accessory. I was able to achieve this by traveling to fashion centers such as New York City and attend the runway shows during Fashion Week. I also had access to trade publications and the Conde Nast forecast, which were both helpful.

“WE HELP PEOPLE NONVERBALLY PROJECT WHO THEY ARE ON THE INSIDE.”

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Arts

NEW LIVE VIRTUAL IS THE

Tacoma Arts Live to present The Muse Hour: a four-event virtual series this fall

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A

s the South Sound region begins to transition into the fall season, the leaves turn hues of fiery orange, and pumpkinspice everything creeps onto shelves and menus, and we all begin the search for entertainment and kinship as we cozy into hibernation.

While just about all live events are on hold due to government mandated safety measures from COVID-19, virtual is the new live for events in 2020. To fill the cavernous void of social connection as empty as our theaters, audiences can experience a bit of reality and humanness in these virtual experiences, from the safety of their own homes.

Tacoma Arts Live presents The Muse Hour, a four-event virtual series bringing artists and audiences together like never before. Each event will stream online and feature a live conversation with artists followed by a moderated Q&A session with patrons.

The first event will be streamed on Saturday, October 17, at 7:30 pm, with Karamo Brown from Netflix’s “Queer Eye.” This three-time Emmy Winner and Culture Expert is known as a “sympathetic talk therapist wrapped inside a life coach and zipped into a fast fashion bomber jacket ...,” according to The New Yorker. In this virtual event, he’ll explore topics of anxiety, toxic masculinity, racism, gun violence, substance abuse, intersectionality and more.

On Sunday, November 8, at 7:30 pm, Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Lila Downs will perform multilanguage songs that bridge traditions from across the Americas,

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V I R T UA L E V E N T S O P E N U P A N E N T I R E LY N E W WAY T O C O N N E C T D I R E C T LY W I T H T H E A R T I S T, A S T H E S H O W S CAN BE STREAMED FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.

with influences ranging from the folk and ranchera music of Mexico and South America to North American folk, jazz, blues and hip-hop. In addition to her musical performance, she will be discussing issues around social injustices and human rights of Latinx communities across the world.

Americana-musician Rhiannon Giddens pairs with Italian jazz-trained multiinstrumentalist Francesco Turrisi for a musical conversation on Sunday, November 22, at 7:30 pm. The duo recently released a collaborative album named “There Is No Other,” which explores sounds and rhythms from African, Arabic, European and American music traditions.

The final event of this four-part series features members of Portland-based “mini orchestra” Pink Martini, as they perform a holiday concert on Saturday, December 12, at 7:30 pm. The evening will offer inclusive and nondenominational songs to celebrate the spirit of being together. Bandleader and pianist Thomas Lauderdale and vocalist extraordinaire China Forbes will share festive music from around the globe.

Virtual events open up an entirely new way to connect directly with the artist, as the shows can be streamed from anywhere in the world. David Fischer, Tacoma Arts Live executive director, says, “This season might be a little unusual, but we are keeping a spark of hope focused on bringing live performance back to our community.”

The Muse Hour virtual events are free to Tacoma Arts Live Members at the Grit City Network level and above. Tickets are $11.50 per show (including fees!) and are on sale now to the general public. Once registered, audience members will receive a link and password the day of the event to access the live stream. To purchase tickets or become a member, call Tacoma Arts Live Box Office at 253.591.5894 or visit TacomaArtsLive.org.

As a nonprofit organization, Tacoma Arts Live is recognized for presenting world-renowned artists and thinkers, for providing one of the largest performing arts education programs in the western United States—serving over 50,000 students, teachers and parents annually in the South Sound—and for preserving and activating Tacoma’s Historic Theater District, and Tacoma’s Historic Armory.

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Health DERMAPLANING All your questions, answered

BY BRI WILLIAMS, RN, BSN

W

hen it comes to spa services, we all want to get the most out of our treatment and leave feeling relaxed and recharged, but we also want to see a difference when we look in the mirror. If you are looking for a quick, easy and affordable treatment that can help to improve the health of your skin, you should consider dermaplaning. Below we answer your most common questions!

What is dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a method of exfoliation, or skin resurfacing, using a sterile surgical blade that gently sheds the top layer of dull, dead skin, as well as temporarily removes fine peach fuzz hairs. This activates the skin cells beneath to renew and freshen. The result is an immediately smoother, brighter, healthier, glowing complexion.

The procedure works particularly well for smoothing the skin of those with dry or coarse skin, for lessening acne scarring or uneven skin tone, and for removing the buildup of dead cells for those with mature or damaged skin.

After dermaplaning, the skin-care products you use at home can penetrate deeper, making them more effective. Dermaplaning can be done on its own, or added to other treatments like HydraFacials, chemical peels, light therapy and more.

How much does dermaplaning cost?

Dermaplaning ranges in price depending on where you receive the treatment. On average it is $30 to $100.

How long will my dermaplaning results last?

You will love your results immediately after your treatment and will notice a decrease in fine facial hair (peach fuzz) and a glowing complexion for approximately one month. A lot of clients choose to repeat this treatment

every month to keep a healthy cell turnover and see long-term results such as a decrease in fine lines, hyper-pigmentation and scarring.

How long will my appointment take?

Your treatment will take approximately 30 minutes.

Will dermaplaning hurt?

No, not at all. Most clients report it feels very relaxing.

Is there any prep for this treatment?

Dermaplaning cannot be done on sunburned skin, open wounds, rashes or active acne. You should discontinue the use of any retinols seven days before your treatment. Other than that, it is a great treatment for everyone, even pregnant and nursing mamas!

Is there any downtime or recovery?

There is no downtime after dermaplaning. It is important you wear sunscreen after your treatment as you are more susceptible to burn, and it is recommended you avoid any retinols for three to four days after your treatment.

Are there any products I should be using at home?

Your results can be prolonged, and the health of your skin improved, with the use of high-quality skin-care products at home. As mentioned above, it is also important you apply sunscreen after your appointment, as you have a fresh layer of skin that is more susceptible to burning. Consult with your aesthetic provider to find out what skin-care products would be best for your skin type and concerns.

Dermaplaning is a great way to treat yourself, and your skin, at the spa!

Dermaplaning is a method of exfoliation, or skin resurfacing ...

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Health YO U R O R A L H E A LT H A N D C A N N A B I S What you need to know

BY DR. KARLA BLOOMQUIST AND DR. CHIARINA IREGUI

W

ith the growing prominence of cannabis products in many forms, you will likely see that dentists incorporate questions about patterns and types of cannabis use in your medical history. As oral healthcare providers, we are very aware of the effects of cannabis on your oral and general health. We feel that you should be too.

Medicinal usage of marijuana is the main reason we have seen such an increase in cannabis options. In 2019, pharmaceutical cannabis held the leading revenue share of 71.9 percent. Severe medical conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, neurologic conditions, arthritis and chronic pain are only a few medical conditions that are finding benefit from cannabis use.1 Despite what some feel are health benefits of regular marijuana use, a report published by the American Dental Association, updated July 12, 2019, raises concerns for oral health in those using cannabis.

Significantly higher rates of periodontitis (gum disease) were observed among frequent users compared to non-users. These patients showed significantly higher numbers of gingival pocket depths (4+ millimeters in depth) as well as attachment loss and/or gum recession.2 The use of cannabis, particularly in the tobacco form, is associated with poor oral health that is complicated by associated factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, other types of drug use, poor oral hygiene practices and infrequent visits to the dentists.

Cannabis use leads to dry mouth. When saliva production is decreased, the teeth are more prone to decay. THC, an appetite stimulant, often leads users to consume cariogenic (cavity-causing) snack foods. This, combined with decrease in saliva production and poor oral hygiene, is a recipe for dental disaster. Smoking marijuana is also associated with chronic inflammation of the oral tissues that can lead to red-and-

white mixed lesions, ultimately resulting in malignancy. A synergistic effect between tobacco and cannabis smoke may increase the oral and neck cancer risk for people who smoke both. A currently intoxicated (“high”) user may present several difficulties for the dental practitioner.

Increased anxiety, paranoia and hyperactivity may heighten the stress experience of a dental visit. Increased heart rate and other cardiorespiratory effects of cannabis make the use of epinephrine, which is a component of local anesthetic used by dentists, potentially life-threatening.

How does marijuana affect sleep? The verdict is still out as to whether marijuana is beneficial or detrimental as a sleep aid. There are people who use forms of cannabis in order to improve their ability to fall asleep. The issue with marijuana as a sleep aid is that the body does eventually become used to the dose it receives and will continue to require a higher dose for the same effect. Due to the many forms of cannabis, there has not been a substantial amount of studies done that can help the medical profession determine a concrete answer to the effect marijuana has on sleep quality. There is evidence that the quality of sleep is detrimentally affected due to the amount of time that a person will spend in deep sleep and/or REM. At this time, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine does not promote the use of marijuana for the purpose of sleep or for the treatment of sleep disorders.

Ref: Kelly John Walker, DOCS education, Science and Health Education and Economics, Cannabis and Dentistry, Part 1, July 27, 2020.

1. MaristPoll.Marist.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ UPDATED_NPR_PBS- NewsHour_Marist-Poll_USA-NOS-andTables_1912131159.pdf#page=3 2. ADA.org/en/member-center/oral-health- topics/cannabis

The use of cannabis, particularly in the tobacco form, is associated with poor oral health.

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“NO SHORTCUT TO QUALITY” Your home remodeling experts

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

“O

ur job is not complete until our customer is 100 percent satisfied.”

If you are looking to ensure you receive the best when it comes to your next roofing, siding, window, patio covers and porch enclosures home remodel or kitchen remodel, look no further than Rob Chatham of Ampro Builders LLC. An exterior home improvement contractor with more than 50 years of experience, Ampro Builders products carry a lifetime manufacturer warranty.

A graduate of San Diego State University followed by time in the Navy, Rob was in the market for a job—and he knew construction. “I’m a third-generation builder,” he says. “It’s in my blood and something I knew how to do since I was a kid. It just came naturally.”

After having established and maintained a successful business in California for many years, Rob was looking for a change and wanted to experience the Pacific Northwest lifestyle. Drawn to the greenery and landscape of the area, he relocated to Tacoma in 1985, and as he says, “I love it here!”

Rob opened Ampro Builders in April of 2009 and has been dedicated to providing his clients the best when it comes to customer service and quality work. If you’re in the market for a new roof, windows, doors, siding, patio cover, sunroom, deck or a kitchen remodel, Ampro Builders is proud to have the opportunity to be your home remodeling expert.

You can trust that you—and your home—are in good hands, as Ampro provides an experienced business owner, knowledgeable consultants and superior customer service. At Ampro, Rob has taken the extra steps to ensure that they are licensed, bonded and insured to protect both the company, their customers and Ampro’s reputation within the community that they serve. All projects are managed by Ampro employees and in-house managers.

Ampro Builders is a proud member of the Washington Roofing Contractors Association and has Better Business Bureau Certification. They are certified and accredited by Hardie Siding; certified to install Builder Products

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and Malarkey Roofing Products; and Master Shingle applicators for CertainTeed. Ampro is a preferred contractor with Owens Corning roofing products and also holds the IKO ShieldPRO Plus certification.

Rob and his associates are in the “problem-solving” business; finding solutions for homeowners. Rob is proud to be in a business in which he has the ability to take an old house the owners are not happy with, put his skills to work, and have them overjoyed with the final results and loving their “new” home! “I like helping people and converting their wants, needs and dreams into beautifully finished products, and seeing them happy with the end result,” he smiles.

The Ampro Builders Business Model: • A centralized point of communication between the customer and the project manager • The assigned project manager provides all estimates • Seek out and utilize the talents of highly trained craftsmen and train them to Ampro’s high standards and manufacture guidelines • Recognize and appreciate that a good reputation is earned and to never take that for granted • Ampro Builders team members are to display a professional standard at all times. Safety is their top priority, and they abide by new COVID standards.

The success of Ampro Builders can be attributed to years and years of experience, attests Rob. “My job has taught me that there is no problem we can’t find a solution for. I firmly believe that there is ‘no shortcut to quality.’ The more you put into the project, the more the customer gets out of the project. It’s common sense.”

You and your home deserve the best! If you are looking to invest in quality, call Rob at Ampro Builders today.

“ I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THERE IS ‘NO SHORTCUT TO QUALITY.’ THE MORE YOU PUT INTO THE PROJECT, THE MORE THE CUSTOMER GETS OUT OF THE PROJECT.”

AMPRO BUILDERS LLC 2348 SOUTH FAWCETT AVENUE TACOMA, WASHINGTON 98402 253.208.7151 | ROB@GAFS.COM | AMPROBUILDERS.NET

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RIDE 4 RELIEF PTSD SURVIVOR ADVOCATING FOR THE HEALTH AND SUPPORT OF HIS PEERS

BY TAYLOR SHILLAM

“PTSD IS NOT THE PERSON REFUSING TO LET GO OF THE PAST, BUT THE PAST REFUSING TO LET GO OF THE PERSON.” Imagine a condition that continually brings pieces of your most traumatic experiences into your everyday life. For many individuals whose careers place them in the line of crisis, that is the reality.

It’s estimated that 30 percent of first responders will develop behavior health conditions, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The daily duties of their positions often require them to face traumatic stressors and situations that place them at high risk for both PTSD and ASD (Acute Distress Disorder). Just as often, they are left unsure of how to recover and regain their lives following a traumatic incident.

At times, it can require a person who has experienced and recovered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder to be able to fully recognize and support the condition in others.

One man has made it his cause to reduce first responder suicide and increase wellness support for police and fire fighters suffering from PTSD across the country. Using the mode of transportation that brought him therapeutic relief throughout his own battle with PTSD—riding his motorcycle—Jeff Shepard has taken his cause to cities across the country in a growing movement to raise awareness and support for his peers.

Ride 4 Relief is the movement. Organized by Shepard, a retired officer and PTSD survivor, the nonprofit organization is dedicated to generating a wide community of support for first responders (including paramedics, firefighters, police and corrections officers) who have faced PTSD. As his efforts have gathered more and more publicity, Shepard has partnered with charities, media outlets and various sponsors to highlight precincts throughout the nation as they nurture the health and wellness of their teams. He has worked to connect first responders with the necessary support, education and relief for their PTSD symptoms, while sharing his own story of recovery.

At the beginning of Ride 4 Relief, Shepard visited police and fire departments during the months of June (PTSD Awareness Month) and July, steadily building momentum, recognition and awareness for his cause along the way. Shepard embarked on his first tour in 2017 and later followed up with the larger 35-state tour.

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Taking a close, intimate approach at each department and precinct along his journey, Shepard used his mounting publicity to connect the media with members of the police and fire departments. Working to shed light on the experiences faced by real-life first responders, Shepard used his platform of press conferences and media coverage to further advocate for PTSD support. With his own set of hardships brought on by PTSD, Shepard has taken every measure to have his message heard, and he has been nothing but the ideal advocate for a cause hitting so close to home.

Shepard first experienced PTSD following his involvement in an ambush shooting in 2012, while working at a Seattle area police department. He had been a police officer for 10 years and a firefighter for eight.

At the time of the shooting, Shepard was attempting a simple stop of a subject walking down the street, when the subject pulled out a shotgun and began to fire while Shepard remained in his patrol car.

While he wasn’t physically injured in the shooting, the incident took a significant mental toll on Shepard, immediately impacting his sleep patterns and emotional well-being. Days later, Shepard was diagnosed with PTSD. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition triggered by either experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms often include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety and uncontrollable, recurring thoughts about the event. Additional symptoms can include negative thoughts, hopelessness, detachment and depression.

Many traumatic events will result in a difficult, but temporary, adjustment period—but when symptoms get worse or persist for extended amounts of time, the cause is likely PTSD. Taking the right coping mechanisms and emphasizing self-care are critical in order to keep symptoms at bay and keep day-to-day function improving.

Shepard went to therapy for his symptoms for almost a year before returning to work. He was then able to focus on achieving his lifelong goal of becoming a motor officer.

From the moment Shepard began working for the police, his dream had been to work in the traffic unit and turn his passion for riding motorcycles into his full-time career.

In 2015, Shepard passed the challenging two-week motor officer training—an experience he has claimed to be one of the most challenging feats of his life. At the time, he had returned to a good place mentally, excited for the future and looking forward to returning to work each day. However, Shepard’s battle with PTSD was not yet over.

ONE MAN HAS MADE IT HIS CAUSE TO REDUCE FIRST RESPONDER SUICIDE AND INCREASE WELLNESS SUPPORT FOR POLICE AND FIRE FIGHTERS SUFFERING FROM PTSD ACROSS THE COUNTRY.

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Courtesy of The National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

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Organized by Shepard, a retired officer and PTSD survivor, the nonprofit organization is dedicated to generating a wide community of support for first responders who have faced PTSD. Just three years after returning to work and two months after becoming a motor officer, everything changed once again. While on duty on July 4, 2015, Shepard was the target of an explosive device. The explosive struck his right leg before exploding, leaving him with a ruptured eardrum, burn injuries across his face and body, and the return of his PTSD symptoms.

After another year of therapy and doctors’ visits, the incident eventually led to his medical retirement.

“This had been a really hard time during my life, and I have really felt like my identity was taken from me,” Jeff wrote in a statement for Ride 4 Relief. “I have spent a lot of time thinking about my condition. I knew that there were so many other police officers, soldiers and first responders dealing with the same issues.”

Shepard realized that utilizing healthy outlets had made all the difference in his progress toward recovery from PTSD. Riding his motorcycle had become a form of therapy, a way to distance himself from the stressors and triggers that could arise in everyday life. Shepard has since made it his goal to bring that same feeling of peace, relief and healing to first responders across the country.

The idea first came to him at an event, where participants were creating dream boards that would help them visualize their goals coming to life. Immediately, Shepard saw a motorcycle at the center of his vision for the future. He also quickly recalled a recent meeting with Leslie Mayne, founding director of the Permission To Start Dreaming (PTSD) Foundation.

The PTSD Foundation is a registered nonprofit that supports alternative therapy programs to aid soldiers in overcoming symptoms of the condition and once again reach a life beyond the service they provided their country. When Jeff met Leslie, he was quickly moved by her story and the purpose behind her foundation.

It all came together the moment he was tasked with creating his dream board, and the seeds of inspiration were planted. Shepard knew he wanted to build on his connection with Leslie to organize a ride to support others who had suffered from PTSD. The ride would reach first responders, soldiers, police officers, firefighters, and those who were dedicated to assisting them.

Ride 4 Relief was organized, and Shepard set out to educate communities across the United States. He also sought to highlight the police and fire departments who were “doing good things” on a national level, in terms of supporting their team members’ health, well-being and resiliency in the face of trauma.

Ignited by the idea and fueled by his experiences, Shepard took to his motorcycle on a nationwide tour to accomplish his goal to gather leaders and generate advocacy for PTSD support.

“That’s what our main goal is,” Jeff

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stated in an interview with the Toledo, Ohio, Fire Department, “raising awareness and support for the men and women putting their life out on the line every day for their community.”

Eventually making worldwide news, Shepard took his ride to the streets in June, during PTSD Awareness Month, stopping in major cities from Seattle to Virginia to share his story.

His longest ride, through June and July of 2019, took him to 35 states around the nation, covering major cities in Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Mississippi, Florida and more, and included stops in New York City and Washington, DC. All proceeds from the ride would benefit the Permission to Start Dreaming Foundation; the organization that inspired Shepard to start it all. The foundation’s mission is providing hope and healing to those who serve by finding the best tools and training to enhance the minds, bodies and spiritual 50 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

well-being of the nation’s first responders, veterans and their family members.

Founded in 2011 and based in the Pacific Northwest, the Permission To Start Dreaming Foundation has supported local organizations offering alternative therapies to help soldiers and families readjust to life at home. Their goal is to provide answers and solutions that promote healing through hosting events, creating connections and growing a community of compassionate allies and citizens.

The foundation has designed and delivered workshops, leadership summits and retreats that focus on growth and stress recovery following PTSD. Foundation leaders hold monthly huddles to “create a life of meaning, consequence and joy” through fostering lasting relationships. Led by foundation members with first responder, law enforcement and military experience, and always directed by a mental health professional, the monthly meetings are meant to be a safe environment to share experiences and

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“

THERE IS HELP AND RELIEF

OUT THERE camaraderie. Free to attend and open to the community, the huddles are held monthly in Gig Harbor, Washington, with Tacoma and Bremerton communities to follow.

To aid in supporting future efforts by Jeff Shepard and the Ride 4 Relief movement, donations can be provided directly to the Permission To Start Dreaming Foundation online at PTSDFoundation.org.

When he’s not riding in support of his cause, Shepard acts as the founder of Down Range Baby, a manufacturer of tactical diaper bags for dads. Boasting the popular taglines “Strong enough to go to war” and “Bottles to bullets,” Down Range Baby gear is manufactured in a U.S. facility that specializes in manufacturing products for the military.

Shepard’s success as both an advocate and company owner have led to features in publications, television shows and worldwide news. He uses his continued publicity to provide greater support for his peers whose lives have been affected by PTSD, ASD and depression.

Above all, Shepard wants those suffering PTSD to know that they are not alone. “There is help and relief out there. I know it, because I overcome my PTSD every day.”

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

253

SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING

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October 2020

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HALLOWEEN AT A

DISTANCE

PLENTY OF ACTIVITIES TO KEEP UP TRADITION

By Colin Anderson

W

ith restrictions on gatherings still in place, many people will be choosing to celebrate Halloween at home or at a distance this season. While the packed costume parties might not be part of the equation this year, that isn’t to say you still can’t have a great time with the kids or your close inner circle.

Instead of door-to-door trick-or-treating, consider making some of your favorite Halloween candies at home. If you have leftovers still stashed from last year, try adding them to a batch of chocolate chip cookies or brownies. There are also plenty of recipes online to recreate favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers or even gummy worms.

If you want to give out candy without contact, make up a fun obstacle course or leave trick or treaters clues on where to find the secret stash of candy on your property. Hiding candy in Easter eggs

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around your yard would also be an option. If you feel like getting out of the house you can also put on your favorite costume, bring a big bucket of candy, and leave pieces at the driveway of families in the neighborhood.

Many families enjoy driving around their communities looking at Christmas lights; this year why not seek out the most creatively decorated Halloween homes? Create a homemade BINGO card for the kids with items like pumpkin, skeleton, spider web, witch, etc.

For each space they cross off they can choose a piece of candy from your own supply.

Finally, perhaps it’s time to get reacquainted with some of the classic horror, slasher or supernatural movies. Turn the lights down, pop on your favorite streaming service and find something that will give you a good scare. A Halloween-inspired cocktail (for the adults) might help calm any nerves. Happy Halloween!

1316 FOR EVE NTS, VISIT 253LIFESTYLEMAGAZINE.COM.

/ October

ENTERTAINMENT

09

24

LIVE 2 LEAD Now is your chance for an incredible opportunity to connect, learn and grow together, as you are invited to join leaders from around the world for a live virtual leadership event. During this live simulcast Live 2 Lead event, you will hear from incredible leaders including John C. Maxwell; former CEO of Ford Motor Company, Alan Mulally; COO and President of Focus Brands, Kat Cole; and immensely talented entertainer and entrepreneur, Steve Harvey. Experience Live 2 Lead on October 9 from the comfort of your own home or office while taking the opportunity to make local, national and international connections you never would otherwise. Secure your seat or set up a watch party for your team at TrishBuzzone.com/streaming-leaders.

BETTER FUTURES CELEBRATION WEEK Hilltop Artists students who are over age 18 have been hard at work creating glass art for their annual Better Futures Luncheon, which this year is the Better Futures Celebration Week. The organization’s largest yearly fundraiser goes virtual for 2020. The event will kick off on Zoom on the afternoon of October 13, and community donors will have the opportunity to bid on student artwork. The bidding will continue through 8pm on the evening of October 16. Community members can sign up as “Table Captains’’ if they want to advocate for community support and organize team bidding. Or, if you wish to sign up for Zoom testimonials and the online bidding store only, you can visit their website at HilltopArtists.org and sign up as a guest. The muchloved youth stories will once again be a big part of this annual event.

Additional details can be found at HilltopArtists.org.

2020 FALL BAZAAR & TRUNK OR TREAT Come join the LeMay Collection at Marymount and South Sound Productions for the 2020 Fall Bazaar. Scheduled for Saturday, October 24, stop by LeMay Collections at Marymount (325 152nd Street East in Tacoma) for this family fun event that is sure to please! Held 10am to 4pm, there will be several vendors on-site, and kids will be sure to enjoy the drive-through trunk or treat from 1 to 3pm! Families will drive through the estate, viewing classic cars decorated in Halloween themes staged along the path. A goody bag filled with candy will be distributed to vehicles as they exit the property. The bazaar will be an outdoor event, adhering to the COVID-19 restrictions. Visit LeMayMarymount.org for details and contact information.

* Please note, as of press time, these events were still scheduled to take place as planned. Due to the current health crisis, 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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Eat & Drink

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A P P L E C R I S P A N D H O M E M A D E VA N I L L A BEAN ICE CREAM Recipe Courtesy of Tina VanDenHeuvel, NTP You can follow Tina @madebetterforyou on Instagram

APPLE CRISP INGREDIENTS: 10 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith, Pink Lady or MacIntosh) Juice from 1 lemon 1/2 cup Lakanto Maple Syrup or liquid sweetener of choice 1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. Himalayan salt 1 tsp. xanthan gum 1 1/2 cups almond meal 1 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup Lakanto gold sweetener (brown sugar substitute) 1 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. baking powder 1/2 cup melted ghee (clarified butter)

METHOD: Apple Filling: • Wash, core, peel and slice apples into a large bowl.

• Add lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt and xanthan gum to the apples and mix well.

• Pour apple mixture in a 9x13 baking dish.

Crisp Topping: • In a separate mixing bowl, mix together the almond meal, oats, pecans, Lakanto sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda and baking powder.

• Add melted ghee and mix until crumbly using a fork.

• Crumble the topping mixture over the apples in the baking dish.

• Bake in a 350˚ preheated oven for 45 minutes. Topping should be golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool slightly before serving warm.

VA N I L L A B E A N I C E C R E A M I N G R E D I E N T S : 5 organic eggs, whipped 4 cups heavy whipping cream 13.5 oz. can full fat coconut cream 1/2 cup Swerve confectioners sweetener 5 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. Himalayan salt 3 whole vanilla bean pods

METHOD: • Slice the vanilla beans in half using a sharp knife lengthwise.

Using the tip of the knife, scrape out all the vanilla bean. Set aside.

• In a large bowl, whisk eggs until scrambled. Mix in whipping cream, coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla, salt and vanilla bean.

• Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s directions.

• When the ice cream is firm, place in a freezer-safe container and chill for 3 to 4 hours before serving over your warm apple crisp.

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Get Away with a Fall Visit to Lopez Island T H E MO ST RU R A L OF T H E T H R E E M A J OR S A N J UA N I S L A N D S

BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

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Travel

T

he minute you board the Washington State Ferry in Anacortes heading toward Lopez Island, your stress begins to slip away. Lopez Island is less visited than its larger neighbors Orcas and San Juan Island. Rolling farmlands, woods and open spaces with views for miles draw visitors to the island who want to disconnect and relax. It is known as the friendliest of the San Juan Islands, with a local custom of waving to passing cars. There are less restaurants, shops and businesses on Lopez Island, but the tradeoff is worth it for less people. Plan to spend your time taking quiet walks with public access to beaches and forests, or just reading and relaxing.

To get to Lopez Island, take a Washington State Ferry from Anacortes, Washington. Make sure to make a ferry reservation— and note that you cannot make a reservation for your return trip. Plan to allow time on your last day to wait in the ferry line.

Weather in the fall can be anywhere from warm and sunny to wet and cold, so be sure to plan accordingly.

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“

Grab a coffee and wander through

the shops in this waterfront hamlet at a leisurely pace. Everything seems to just slow down on island time.

Where to Stay

The best place to stay on the island, with the most amenities, is the Lopez Islander Resort, which overlooks the scenic Fisherman Bay. The on-site restaurant offers waterfront dining and is known for its prime rib and fresh seafood dishes. There is a variety of lodging options from hotel rooms to vacation home rentals. Camping is available at the resort as well as a full-service marina. All have access to the heated swimming pool and jacuzzi. If you decide you don’t want to drive your car, you can park it in the resort’s parking lot and walk or bike onto the ferry.

You can arrange a complimentary shuttle pickup with the resort. The location is convenient to Lopez Village, which is home to most of the shopping and restaurants on the island.

Where to Eat There are a limited number of restaurants on the island, and the summer of 2020 was a tough one as COVID-19 wreaked havoc on their peak season. The two wellknown restaurants in Lopez Village only offer takeout at this time. The Islander Bar and Grill at the Lopez Islander Resort is open for dine-in or takeout, and is a good option if you prefer a sit-down meal.

One restaurant that has adjusted is Ursa Minor. “When our dining room was forced to close in mid-March, we knew that our survival depended upon our immediate action. We quickly pivoted our business model depending on what our customers needed at that exact moment in time. We soon realized that our business would never be the same,” said co-owner Nova Askue. “Beautifully plated conceptual dishes just didn’t seem appropriate at the time, so we launched ‘Comfort Food To-Go’; comforting meals for uncertain times. Something we had

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thought would only be temporary lasted 16 weeks, and to this day we are still serving up fried chicken to-go.”

They have also paired with Holly B’s Bakery, using her sweet corn cookies with their Ursa Minor house-made ice cream to create the ultimate ice cream sandwich.

They strive to source locally and support island farmers as much as possible.

Haven Kitchen and Bar has a lovely waterfront view from its location in Lopez Village. It is known for its imaginative menu filled with a variety of dishes to include local ingredients and fresh seafood with international influences. They also offer fresh in-house baked goods.

What to Do Lopez Village is the commercial heart of the island and has a grocery store, pharmacy and an organic grocery. There are some cute shops, galleries, a coffee shop and a bakery. Grab a coffee and wander through the shops in this waterfront hamlet at a leisurely pace. Everything seems to just slow down on island time.

Before you head out to Lopez, call and book a time to pick up some local wine at Lopez Island Vineyards. At this time, the tasting room is closed, but you can see the grounds when you pick up your wine. Owner Brent Charnley is one of the original pioneers of Washington wine. The first winery in the San Juan Islands, he and his wife Maggie have organically grown grapes on their land for over 30 years. Don’t miss the Madeleine Angevine and Siegerrebe varietals, both estate grown. In 2017, the Madeleine Angevine made The Seattle Times list of the top 50 wines of the year.

VISIT US MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY 11AM TO 5PM FREE SHIPPING OVER $75 & FREE CURBSIDE PICKUP AVAILABLE

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You can’t visit the island without planning to spend some time outside. Lopez is popular to cycle, as it offers some of the easiest terrain in the area. Think sloping country lanes with no traffic and wide-open spaces. In the fall, you will need to bring your own bicycle, as no rentals are available outside of the summer season.

Hiking is a joy with so many options. In addition to a state park, there are a variety of local parks. One must-do hike is the Shark Reef Sanctuary. It is tucked away on the west side of the island. The 1-mile round-trip hike begins in a forest before opening on a bluff overlooking a rocky shoreline with absolutely stunning views.

Seal and sea lion sightings are common. It is well worth the short trek.

Another great outdoor space is the Watmough Bay Preserve. Park in the lot and follow the trail leading right to the beach. The protected natural bay is calm and secluded with a smooth, rocky beach surrounded by natural stone cliffs. What strikes most people when they visit is how quiet it is. It is a lovely space to explore, even on a rainy day.

Referred to as “The Heart of Lopez,” Lopez Hill is a Pacific Northwest rainforest that gives you a sense of being isolated from civilization though just a short distance to homes and roads. There are 4 miles of primitive trails with limited signage, but it is pretty easy to keep on the trail. It is the place locals visit to renew their spirits.

When traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic it is important to have safe practices during this time. Make reservations for everything you can. Check the Visitors’ websites for your destination for updates. Call your lodging a day or two before you travel for specific information as well as any business on your “must see” list. Wear a mask and wash or sanitize your hands often. Travel with a few extra provisions in case the situation changes so you will have something to ear.

Lastly, spend what you can to help these small local businesses survive.

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