April 2018 REAL Northwest Living

APRIL 2018 2018 APRIL

NORTHWEST LIVING LIVING LOCAL

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Northwest Northwest 10 Living PG. #tacomaliving Living pg. 10

Tacoma Tacoma In focus In focus Simulation lab Simulation lab

GOOD NEWS GOOD NEWS Tacoma’s Winter

Tacoma’s Winter Wonderland Wonderland

Peninsula students deserve safe schools.

Most of our schools are decades old, overcrowded and operate with outdated fire safety systems. In some schools, fire alarms and sprinkler systems need to be upgraded or completely replaced. In others, the amount of water available for first responders to fight a fire does not meet current code. Two schools have areas with NO sprinklers at all.

11Voting of YES 15on the April school bond will help ensure our students attend safe, Peninsula Schools up-to-date schools. don’t meet current fire codes.

Vote Yes for Safe Schools

o current code 7. Voyager 8. Goodman 9. KPMS 10. Kopachuck 11. Peninsula

Peninsula To learn more about the April 24th bond, studen visit standup4schools.orgdeserve safe sch

Most of our schools are decades old, o

Safe, Updated Peninsula Schools with outdated fire safety systems. In so

“In some schools, fire alarms and sprinkler systems need to be upgraded or completely replaced. In others, the amount of water available for first responders to fight a fire does not meet current code. Two schools have areas with NO sprinklers at all.”

Schools not up to current code 1. Artondale 2. Evergreen 3. Harbor Heights 4. Minter Creek 5. Purdy 6. Vaughn

Paid for by Stand Up for Peninsula Schools P.O. Box 2184, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 2 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

and sprinkler systems need to be upgr replaced. In others, the amount of wat responders to fight a fire does not mee schools have areas with NO sprinklers

Pe Voting YES on the Aprilde sc

help ensure our students Most up-to-date schools. with

Vote Yes fo

and repla respo scho

To lear Vot visithel sta

7. Voyager 8. Goodman 9. KPMS 10. Kopachuck 11. Peninsula

up-

Safe,

Top Five Contributors: Patinkin Research Strategies, Deborah Krishnadasan, Discovery VPO, 1. Artondale 7. Voyager Lucy Ritchie, Cannon Construction

Schools not up to current code 2. Evergreen 8. Goodman 3. Harbor Heights 9. KPMS

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THE TEAM MARKETING

Washington Director | Julie Reed 253.273.8524 | julie@livinglocal360.com

EDITORIAL

DESIGN

Creative Director Senior Designer | Senior Designer | Graphic Designer Graphic Designer

| Whitney Lebsock Rachel Figgins Maddie Russo | Darbey Scrimsher | Donna Johnson

Managing Editor | Jillian Chandler jillian@livinglocal360.com

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Managing Partner | Kim Russo Executive Director | Steve Russo

CONTRIBUTORS Staff Writer Colin Anderson | colin@livinglocal360.com

TACOMA LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE is brought to you by LivingLocal360.com. To submit articles, photos, nominations and events, email us at events@livinglocal360.com.

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Annie Nye • Beth Bond • Paula Larson Dan Aznoff • Kenny Markwardt • Richard Ory Andrea Johnson • Lindy Peterson • Troy Louis Chandler • Kellie French Living Local Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest and Inland Northwest; Tacoma, Edmonds, Gig Harbor, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Dover Bay, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Rathdrum and the Spokane Valley. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Living Local Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine.

Living Local Magazine is produced and published by Living Local 360, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

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PUBLISHER’S note LET GOD SHINE THROUGH YOU! AS THE DAYS GET LONGER, the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom, we feel an increased energy and a feeling of hope. It is also the time of year when we celebrate Easter—the ultimate sign of hope in the Christian world.

may be stuck in a rut and not willing to go out and try new things … whether it’s applying for a new job or interacting with others. It can leave them feeling alone and isolated. Do what you can to encourage them!

Sadly, there are many in this world who struggle each day with little hope in their lives. Whether it is living in poverty, broken relationships or struggling with abuse, mental health issues or addiction, it is easy to lose hope when you don’t feel the love of others.

OFFER HELP. Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. If you see a friend who is sick, offer to bring them dinner. Maybe someone you know is having a bad day. Offer to take their kids for the day or run errands for them.

One of the best ways we can show the love of God to others is through our actions. For those of us who are blessed with an enriched life surrounded by people who love us, one of the greatest gifts we can give to others is the gift of hope. Here are some easy and quick ways you can spread the message of hope to those who need it most all year long.

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Begin by CONNECTING with people.

Listen to others and do what you can to make them know they are being listened to. For many, being heard and having their feelings validated is equivalent to feeling loved. It can be a relative or friend you know is struggling, or it can be through volunteering at a local food bank and interacting with others. It’s simple and it can enrich your life as well.

These are just a few ways that we can spread the Easter message throughout the year and let others see God’s love through our actions as well.

Happy Easter to all of you from us at Living Local!

Steve Russo Steve Russo Executive Director steve@livinglocal360.com

ENCOURAGE others. Someone you know

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Contents

pg. 22

pg. 58

10

Get Featured

Join our Facebook page Northwest Living for a chance to see your photos, recipes, ideas and more!

14

Essentials

The latest tips and trends perfect for your home and lifestyle.

32

48 Travel & Leisure Crave! 2018: Sip and savor the flavors of the Northwest.

20 Life & Community 54 Point Defiance Gardens: Take a walk for a taste of spring.

22

Good News

A special, snowy, bouncy day!

30 Business Spotlight Noble Interiors & Design: Bringing your ideas to life.

12 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Health & Lifestyle

Tips and informational articles about living a healthy, active lifestyle.

Food & Drink

Spring is here! Spring recipes for every occasion.

58 Arts &

Entertainment

Calendar of great local events, music, sports and shows!

WE’VE GOT A REBATE FOR THAT.

pg. 20

54 | 38

(253) 502-8363 MyTPU.org/Rebates

pg. 48

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 13

ESSENTIALS

Building a new house?

BY ANNIE NYE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

I

f you’re thinking about building a new house, there are some major things you need to consider.

First there’s the process. The bare essentials: You need land, a house plan and a builder. Sometimes these can come as a package deal—there are builders who have prepurchased lots, have house plans for you to choose from and, they too, are your builder. It’s a set price for the whole package. The other option is to purchase the land, hire someone to customize a house plan for you (architect) and then hire a builder to construct the house.

I’ve gone over the steps of designing your new house before, but here’s a condensed review: Schematic Design - Conceptualizing spaces within the home and developing what the exterior will look like.

Design Development - This gets down to the dimensions of each space and furthers the concept with windows, doors

14 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

and cabinet placements.

Construction Documents - Actual dimensions that a builder uses. These include structural drawings, foundation, framing, electrical and plumbing plans, etc.

Construction Administration - Overseeing the construction and coordination of finishes.

Second, what you should expect along the way. Your lot needs to be cleared. This may mean cutting trees, leveling the ground and excavation for foundation. Once the foundation is in, the framing begins; exterior, followed by interior walls. The sheeting goes on the exterior. Windows and exterior doors are installed, followed by waterproofing.

Now, the house is “dried in.” Contractors like to have this done so they can work inside during the cold, wet months to finish the interior of the house.

The plumbing, electrical and HVAC are roughed in (wires

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decisions, decisions... and pipes run to locations where they are needed). Next is insulation. Drywall is hung, taped, textured and painted. Cabinets are installed and electrical is finalized. Tile can be installed in showers and floors during this time, too. Depending on the warranty on your flooring, it can either be installed before or after cabinets.

hookup to water main, sewer, septic, etc. will be completed.

Once cabinets are set, the countertops can be templated, fabricated and installed. Plumbing will be finalized—toilets, sinks, faucets hooked up. If the flooring is already in, the base trim, window and door trim is installed. Base trim goes on prior to carpet, if that’s your flooring option.

During this whole process, you should be prepared to make a lot of decisions. Color and material selections will feel like a full-time job.

You should also be patient. Understand that your builder cannot control things like Mother Nature and subs being held-up on other jobs.

Things never go as fast as you want them to; be prepared for that. It’ll all be worth it in the end.

Once window trim is on, you can measure for blinds or window coverings. Carpet will be installed, HVAC will be finished and final

16 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Prior to moving in, there is usually a final walkthrough with your builder to go over how to operate certain things, mark what needs to be fixed or replaced and, once that’s completed, you can schedule move-in day!

there is usually a final walk-through with your builder to go over how to operate certain things, mark what needs to be fixed or replaced and, once that’s completed, you can schedule move-in day!

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ESSENTIALS

Give Yourself a Boost!

Science-based suggestions for self-confidence

(BPT) - A recent study shows your perception of your own image has a profound effect on how you present yourself to the rest of the world. Those findings could be empowering since even small changes to your self-care routine can significantly boost your self-confidence.

The study by researchers at the Stanford Graduate School of Business found those who believe in their own attractiveness view themselves as having higher social status. “The finding that your assessment of yourself shapes your view of yourself and others puts power into your hands,” the authors note.

Consider how these science-based suggestions may help you put your best foot forward when dealing with everything life throws your way.

Get moving. Regardless of your fitness goals, the fact is you’re likely to feel better physically, emotionally and mentally after you exercise.

Research also shows it can improve your self-esteem.

Ramp up your smile. Scientists say our brains are zapped with an instant mood boost when we smile, and that boost is reinforced when others smile back. Further, whiter teeth can have a direct effect on our social and professional interactions, and they’re now easy to achieve through consumer brands like Rembrandt's 1 Week Whitening Kit that can achieve professional-level results at home within a week.

Let your body language communicate self-respect. Keeping your shoulders pulled back and your body straight and tall communicates

18 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

confidence to your brain, studies show. Research found the most empowering stance is one in which your arms are held slightly away from your torso, your body is open and your head is up.

Optimize color in your clothing. The right shade may light up your entire face and have a surprising impact on your mood. “Choosing the color of your office, your clothes or your desktop should not be taken lightly—colors do affect our moods and productivity,” states a recent article on ScienceOfPeople.com. “When given the choice, picking a color that will work with you and not against you can only help.”

Wear scent strategically. Because our brains link certain smells to positive experiences, research suggests we may be able to ramp up our confidence with scents that remind us of happy times. That’s why aromatherapy can help alleviate anxiety, depression and sleeplessness, and improve quality of life for those with chronic health issues, confirms the Mayo Clinic.

Bottom line: When you're taking care of yourself and projecting your best self, you’re far more likely to project the confidence you need to deal effectively with life.

“Confidence can make or break a lot of things,” advises Lecia Bushak on MedicalDaily.com. “In our extrovert-centric society, confidence can get you a job, a girlfriend and the courage to say no to people or situations that are toxic to you. Confidence is knowing yourself and taking care of yourself, too.”

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LIFE & COMMUNITY

Point Defiance

Gardens

Take a walk for a taste of spring.

BY BETH BOND

the park boasts hiking trails, nature programs for young and old, even a zoo.

A

s the dark, wet and gloomy days of winter dragged on, we eagerly awaited those first yellow daffodils popping up, heralding the arrival of spring in the Northwest. And while your own garden may still appear in dismal hibernation, there are places now to see colorful blooms that will boost your spirits and inspire ideas.

Point Defiance is a large multi-use complex of Tacoma’s Metro Parks’ system. Willingly shared by the local community, the park boasts hiking trails, nature programs for young and old, even a zoo. But, the best-kept secret must be the vast colorful gardens featuring the fern and fauna of the Northwest.

Founded by the Capital District of Washington State Federation of Garden Clubs in 1965, the extensive gardens still receive continued support from its vast membership.

A special partnership with Tacoma’s sister city in Japan, Kitakyushu, made it possible to recreate the peace and solitude of that city here in the Japanese Garden landscape. With a

20 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

charming footbridge, a fountain and a quaint tea house, the cherry trees feel right at home.

The Japanese Garden is one of six special areas competing for attention from visitors.

In the Dahlia Trial Garden, they are experimenting with tubers from Canada, England, New Zealand and Australia, in the hopes of creating a strain that will thrive in the Northwest.

The Fuchsia Garden, with its colorful blooms, calls to the hummingbirds as well as the visitors. There are more than 125 varieties to see, struggling with our unique climate conditions.

The Herb Garden, maintaining more than 150 perennial plants, is the pride and joy of the Herb Gardeners of Tacoma. Not only giving color in the spring, there are also tips on planting, displaying and using herbs in daily life at this site.

In cooperation with the Pierce County Iris Society, the Iris Garden has five beds of tall

bearded iris and beardless varieties from Siberia.

One of the largest areas is the 1.5 acres of the Northwest Native Garden with plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest. The easy-tofollow path winds around waterfalls, a pond, even a wooden gazebo.

The Rhododendron Garden consists of nearly 5 acres of old-growth forest merged with 75 species and more than 500 rhododendron plants.

Finally, there’s the Rose Garden, the “jewel in the crown” of the Point Defiance complex. Its first plants were sown in 1895, and now there are more than 1,500 roses. Climbing varieties and miniatures abound in a colorful maze which even includes a wishing well.

So plan a day out with the whole family, get a peek at spring and some inspiration for your own garden. For more information, go to MetroParksTacoma.org/point-defiance-park.

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GOOD NEWS

A Special, Snowy, Bouncy Day! Tacoma’s Winter Wonderland

BY PAULA LARSON PHOTOS COURTESY OF METRO PARKS TACOMA

I

t snowed in Tacoma last month. Did you miss it?

A winter wonderland, complete with snowballs, sleigh rides and snowy princesses swept into Tacoma last month at Metro Parks’ Tacoma’s Winter Wonderland.

Blowing snow, carriage rides and a variety of winter (and other!) wonders made for an afternoon of fun and exploration for kids 5 to 12 years old with intellectual and other disabilities and their families.

Around 1,500 people had a blast having their photo taken with winter royalty, dancing, playing wheelchair basketball and more at STAR Center and the Henry T. Schatz branch of the Boys and Girls Club.

Of course, this being the usual unpredictable spring in the Pacific Northwest, it was a gloriously warm spring day, but that didn’t stop the winter fun. There was even a “snowball” fight at the playground with cotton snowballs.

“The snowball fight on a sunny day was such a unique and silly experience,” smiles Kodi SmithDoty, Metro Parks Tacoma recreation supervisor for Specialized Recreation, Metro Park’s recreation program for those with intellectual disabilities.

22 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

“People really enjoyed that!”

This event was a group effort by Metro Parks Tacoma employees, the Tacoma School District, PAVE (a private group that provides support and resources to individuals with disabilities and their families), volunteers, community sponsors and the Boys and Girls Club. More than 200 people pulled together to create an event intended to engage and connect with these local kids and their families.

“The Winter Wonderland event was a magical experience for kids with disabilities and their families,” says Smith-Doty. “It was a special event to reach families we haven’t met yet who have kids with disabilities. This event was really a showcase to attract families and kids to Metro Parks so we can learn more about their needs and wants for future activities.”

While Smith-Doty’s Specialized Recreation program has offered programs for adults and kids with intellectual disabilities for more than 60 years, most of their programs, outside of Special Olympics sports, have served adults.

“Our program serves a predominantly adult population,” he says. “Several of our participants have been with our programs for years—we truly

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Metro Parks prides itself on being inclusive to all in the community, and the Winter Wonderland featured something for everyone who attended. serve them for a lifetime of leisure.”

An estimated 1 to 3 percent of people have intellectual disabilities globally. While exact numbers are hard to find, some quick math tells us that means that more than 2,000 Tacomans and 8,000 to 25,000 Pierce County residents experience intellectual disabilities. Of course, the term “intellectual disability” covers a wide spectrum of our fellow citizens, and lots of our neighbors who have intellectual disabilities are completely independent.

The programs offered by Specialized Recreation are created for people with intellectual disabilities who enjoy a structured setting for social groups, art classes, gardening, dancing, hanging with friends and more.

The benefits of recreation activities for people with disabilities are the same as for anyone: better physical, mental and emotional health, a greater sense of community, decreased isolation and more. The participants of Specialized Recreation programs need a little more guidance in their fun, but as the Winter Wonderland demonstrated, they are ready to play.

“The vibe of the event was just joyful,” notes Smith-Doty. “So many smiling people enjoying the sunny day and feeling free to bounce through all the activities—the faces of kids was joy and the faces of the volunteers was also joy.”

24 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Metro Parks prides itself on being inclusive to all in the community, and the Winter Wonderland featured something for everyone who attended. Siblings, parents and caregivers were invited to attend, and everyone got in on the fun. Families had their portraits taken by the fireplace, rode in a horse-drawn carriage, took selfies with a princess and had their faces painted. Kids learned to climb rock walls, bounced in a bouncy house, played “bubble soccer” and enjoyed the sunshine on the lawn. Over 1,200 cookies were decorated (and eaten!) during the event by the kids, their families and maybe even a staff member or two.

There was even a chance for a little singing.

“The family karaoke was a huge hit and a chance for kids to really open up,” Smith-Doty says. “Several families were surprised to see their child sing—they didn’t know they even liked to sing!”

In addition to winter fun and games during the Winter Wonderland, kids and their families got to experience some athletics. Specialized Recreation offers Special Olympics teams, and the kids got to try out Special Olympics sports like basketball, flag football and soccer. Metro Parks’ Adaptive Recreation program offers sports and recreation programs for people with physical disabilities, and children got to experience the fun of goalball for those with visual impairment, wheelchair basketball and adaptive cycling.

Tacoma is growing by leaps and bounds, so the need for programs such as Specialized Recreation and Adaptive Recreation is also rising. These programs offer activities for the community year around. Events such as Tacoma’s Winter Wonderland help make our community more aware of these programs and are intended to reach members of our community who could use a little more fun and a little more community in their lives.

If you want to learn more about the Specialized Recreation program, contact Specialized Recreation Coordinator Beau Benner at BeauB@ tacomaparks.com. If you want to learn more about the Adaptive Recreation program, contact Adaptive Recreation Coordinator Parker Ayers at ParkerA@tacomaparks.com.

Feeling Good is Good to Feel

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 25

T

he precise blend of two good ideas can have great results.

Pouring peanut butter into a chocolate cup resulted in the creation of an all-time favorite confection. Asking a crosscountry skier to stop and then shoot at targets generated the biathlon, one of the most grueling and respected events at the Winter Olympics.

The formula works in education, too. Interjecting the expertise of robotics into the respected nursing curriculum at Tacoma Community College has provided future health-care professionals with the handson opportunity to deal with realistic simulations straight out of the emergency room.

The Simulation Lab at TCC offers nursing students the ability to gain experience with state-of-the-art technology that is normally only available at off-site clinics or in busy hospitals.

“Our job is to prepare our students to be productive members of the

26 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

workforce on their first day on the job,” explained Stephanie Thompson, coordinator of the Health Sciences program at the college. Thompson enthusiastically describes the Simulation Lab as “truly amazing.” The health sciences program at the community college is one of the largest in the state, with almost 200 students in the nursing program alone.

The Simulation Lab with life-like mannequins allows students to become familiar with the machinery in a clinical environment as well as to be prepared for the possible outcomes when dealing with live patients. The mannequins, she said, can be programmed to run multiple scenarios, from somebody with trouble breathing to a patient who is crashing.

“The simulations can go as far as presenting students with a patient who is having interactions with individual medications,” said Thompson.

Simulation in the nursing program can go beyond the clinical setting.

Thompson said the lab includes separate rooms where students and instructors can view a simulation and then learn during a complete

TACOMA IN FOCUS

SIMULATION LAB

LOCAL COLLEGE OFFERS NURSING STUDENTS REAL-LIFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

BY DAN AZNOFF PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEALTH, BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AT TACOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

debrief of the experience.

technology as well as some of the latest advances in health care.

“The Simulation Lab allows us to learn in a low-risk environment—and make errors—without harming actual patients,” she said. “The lab is a wonderful tool for students and helps our instructors get better at their job as well.”

The changes were reviewed and approved by oversight committees at the college as well as three separate state nursing commissions. The advanced curriculum is concept-based, which includes guidelines to identify and improve patterns in patient care and the ability to recognize underlying issues with complex medical situations.

Scenarios in the Simulation Lab at TCC are based on actual situations from emergency situations in clinical situations or an emergency room.

The lab in the health-care school has been open for three years. It is used by seven different areas of study in the Health Sciences Department, ranging from nursing to students enrolled in course study for respiratory therapy, radiology, health information services and emergency medicine.

The Simulation Lab is run under the supervision of Krista Fox, dean of Health, Business and Professional Services at TCC. The nursing program at TCC was revamped in the winter of 2016 to encompass a curriculum that implements the newest innovations from

The nursing program at TCC has been approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and is credited by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing in Atlanta.

“This approach is more effective than memorizing content and allows students to focus their course of study on prevalent conditions/situations,” according to a spokesperson for the college. “This ‘flipped classroom’ model, where students prepare for class ahead of time (reading, viewing videos/PowerPoints, completing quizzes), prepares students to come to class and be ready to apply new concepts in a hands-on setting.”

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 27

The reality of a “Flipped Classroom” in the nursing program at the community college gives both the educator and the students the opportunity to apply and “reinforce relevant content in a concise learning environment.”

The classroom innovation also gives students the chance to take ownership of the advanced knowledge by participating in learning activities outside the classroom. The learning environment departs from traditional face-to-face lectures with student-centered activities such as discussions, group activities, case students and other active learning strategies.

Nursing, according to the classroom description in the TCC student handbook, has a bright future in the United States in multiple medical settings including clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities and community centers. Tacoma Community College offers certification in each of these areas.

Employment of registered nurses was projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations, according to Nurses Journal. The growth, according to the professional organization, will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventative care; growing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for health-care services from the baby-boomer population, as they live longer and more active lives.

The financial pressure on hospitals to turn out patients as fast as possible is another factor. This will increase the numbers of people who are sent to long-term care facilities and outpatient care centers.

Employment prospects are especially high for graduates in the Licensed Practical Nurse program, according to Innovators Guide. Working under the guidance of a physician, employment for qualified licensed practical nurses is expected to grow by 21 percent in the next decade with the longterm needs of an expanding elderly population.

In addition to projected job growth, job openings will result from replacement needs, as many workers leave the occupation permanently.

Rapid employment growth is projected in most health-care industries, with the best job opportunities occurring in nursing care facilities and in-home health-care services.

The employment prospectus outlined a perceived inadequacy of available health care in many rural areas, so LPNs willing to relocate to rural areas

28 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

should have even better prospects for permanent, stable employment.

Health care is not the only area of coursework that utilizes robotics at the college. Students utilize simulation in various areas of engineering as well. The TCC Engineering Transfer Program offers practical scientific applications for robotics with crossover coursework in the specialties of biology, chemistry and physics.

The community college offers the first two years of a four-year program that leads to engineering degrees in mechanical, civil, structural, electrical and aerospace. The student handbook claims TCC offers smaller class sizes and more individual attention than starting a four-year program at larger institutions. The college accepts between 80 and 100 students in the engineering program every year. High school students interested in pursuing a degree in engineering are advised to take as much math and science as possible—including chemistry, physics, trigonometry and calculus. Computer science courses are also recommended.

The Simulation Lab is just one innovation that has become part of the respected nursing education program at TCC. In the words of one instructor at the college, the employment prospects for nurses are almost as bright as the robots used in the Simulation Lab.

“The nursing program at TCC will continue to expand because there is very little turnover among the mannequins,” the instructor said with a sly smile.

“But there will always be a need for more trained nurses.”

The application period for the 2019 nursing program to earn degrees in either LPN or RN begins on July 1 and runs through September 1, 2018.

Classes are scheduled to begin in the winter of 2019.

Dan Aznoff is a freelance writer based in Mukilteo, Washington. He was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the toxic waste crisis in California and has received acclamation for his work in the areas of sustainable energy and the insurance industry. He is the author of two books that document colorful periods of history in Washington.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Bringing Your Ideas to Life NOBLE INTERIORS & DESIGN

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

Noble Interiors & Design 800.833.1637 info@nobleint.com NobleInt.com Facebook.com/NobleInteriorsDesign

C

ompetitive pricing with superior service, quality, accuracy and design—look no further than Noble Interiors & Design.

Clients meet with professional interior designers who not only thoroughly understand all aspects of design; they also have complete knowledge of all technical components and construction aspects of your project.

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Whether building or buying a new home, be inspired to take more control of the comfortability of your home with the help of Noble Interiors & Design. Opened just eight months ago in Fife, Washington, customers will be treated to a full-service design studio and turnkey provider of all flooring, countertop materials, window fashions and more.

“Whether simply replacing your carpet, tiling a bathroom or orchestrating an entire remodel, we have you covered,” says Joe Cordray, owner.

Noble’s interior designers are ready to assist their customers in creating a home environment they’re sure to love! Designers aid clients in personalizing their home, making the process seamless while providing the client the information for exactly what to expect. From discussing and educating the client on maintenance, performance attributes and life-cycle cost, assisting in a stress-free decision process (with options of adding window fashions and area rugs) and providing an itemized pricing of their selections, customers leave the appointment confident and well informed.

“Our customers don’t meet with ‘flooring sales people,’” says Joe. “They meet with professional interior designers who not only thoroughly understand all aspects of design; they also have complete knowledge of all technical components and construction aspects of your project.”

At Noble, they work by appointment only in order to provide their customers the dedicated and individualized experience they deserve; they ask that you reach out via email to schedule an appointment with one of their talented designers.

Relationships are the essence of Noble Interiors & Design. Joe and his team place great value on their partners, from their installers to vendors. In addition, builders partner with Noble Interiors to offer their buyers a firstclass, streamlined design experience.

With Noble Interiors & Design, they guarantee quality work from the ground up, following through each step of the way from start to finish.

Whether it be design, pricing or service, customers will experience the higher value difference from the beginning of their first project with Noble’s team.

says: “Turning our client’s vision into a reality and seeing the joy they feel once their project is complete. We pride ourselves in creating a customercentric culture that is second to none.”

In addition to residential services, they also do turnkey commercial and multi-family design and installations, performing work throughout Western Washington.

Joe has called Tacoma home since 2007, when his career brought him to this “amazing area.” Since opening this past September, Joe is seeing success with Noble Interiors & Design, and he attributes this to his “customers, employees, vendors and amazing circle of supportive friends and family.”

Joe and the rest of the Noble team are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve those in the community and help bring their ideas to life. It’s your home; get the most out of it with Noble Interiors & Design.

When it comes to what Joe finds most rewarding in the work he does, he

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 31

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Yes! You Can Eat Them!

The truth about carbohydrates

By Kenny Markwardt, CSCS WHEN I MAKE A RECOMMENDATION TO clients about eating more carbohydrates, I usually get a response of, “Wait, won’t carbs make me fat?!

Aren’t carbs the devil? Don’t you read the covers of magazines in the grocery stores? Just what do you think I’m here for!?”

Sigh … No, no, definitely no, and I think you’re here to look better, move better and feel better.

In our current day and age, an era of social media misinformation and the loudest person in the room getting the most attention, carbohydrates have gotten a bad rap, and that’s unfortunate.

First off, carbs are delicious. Who doesn’t love pasta, rice, fruit and occasionally a little sugar?

Second, carbs are fuel. If you plan on doing any sort of exercise or physical activity where you need fast energy, you need carbohydrates. If you feel drained, tired and like you just don’t have that “go” that you need for your favorite activities, you’re likely low on carbohydrates. This is especially true if you’re chronically exhausted from your exercise. Even the authors of the most popular books are admitting now that one of their biggest regrets is recommending people do intense exercise on a low-carbohydrate diet. That’s how people crash and burn.

H E A LT H Y T I P

Spring is here!

And so are allergies. But taking a few simple precautions can help keep sneezing at bay. Case in point: Even if it’s not sunny, put on shades when you leave the house. Pollen can enter your body through your eyes, so sunglasses—particularly the wraparound kind—can help decrease your exposure. And while you’re out and about, park your car away from pollen-raining trees.

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Don’t forget the veggies!

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Eat your protein Do some research on how much protein you should be getting into your body on your weight-loss journey. Studies have been coming out that consuming more lean protein could be the secret to weight loss that we’ve all been looking for!

Third, body fat is added on due to an overconsumption of calories. It doesn’t matter if these are calories from fat or carbohydrates; eating too many will add fat to your body. (I left out calories from protein because I almost never see people overeat protein, and if you’re exercising, protein will generally convert to muscle and connective tissue, not fat).

In fact, study after study has proven this again and again. As long as protein consumption is adequate, it doesn’t matter what your fat versus carbohydrate intake looks like. Your body fat changes will reflect your over or under consumption.

“But wait! I know someone who lost 100 pounds on a low-carbohydrate diet!”

I completely believe that, and have seen it myself.

I’ve also seen people lose that much weight on a low-fat diet. I’ve also seen that happen on a Paleo diet. I’ve seen people lose weight in an infinite number of ways—some healthier and more constructive than others.

Remember the overconsumption of calories is how weight is gained. Moderating that calorie intake will lead to weight stabilization and under consuming those calories will lead to weight loss.

So, by restricting your carbohydrates, you’re

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probably lowering your calories incidentally.

No matter what you choose, whether it be to restrict your fat intake, go “Paleo,” practice intermittent fasting or go vegetarian route, your net calorie intake is lower.

So what’s a person to do? It’s probably the least sexy word in the dictionary, but moderation.

Make lean meat and vegetables your primary goal for every meal. A fist size of each for women and two fist sizes of each for men is a great place to start.

Then go moderate with all of the other things. Have bread. Have pasta. Have rice. Have dessert once in a while.

If you’re gaining weight or you’d like to lose weight, it’s time to refine and pare down those “extras.”

Choose what makes the most sense to you. Most people already know what they should be cutting out. If not, log your food for a week on MyFitnessPal. If you need help, or need the accountability (which is usually the hardest part), hire a professional. Just know that if it sounds wacky, it probably is.

Don’t choose a quick fix, a pill or anything that involves only drinking shakes or not eating entire groups of macronutrients. The ultimate goal is to seek long-term health and vitality.

Don’t let seasonal allergies slow you down!

Get Healthy!

Go play outside

BY DR. RICHARD ORY, PEDIATRICS NORTHWEST, P.S.

I

still vividly recall my mother’s shriek as she came to kiss me good night. Bending toward the bed, she saw the head of a snake wiggling through a hole I had cut in my blanket. I was 8 and I knew the green snake I had found earlier that day was harmless, but up until that time, I did not know that keeping a pet snake in my bed was unacceptable.

My mother’s immediate recoil and insistence that I release the snake outside now seemed extreme. Fortunately, my joy returned the next day when she said I could keep a pet snake in a box in the garage but never again in my bedroom. My life was not ruined after all!

Growing up, I always enjoyed being outside.

My early explorations involved digging in the garden and collecting bugs, spiders and, of course, snakes. When I had the chance, I would venture to the beach or get “lost” in the woods.

Any opportunity to be outside was a great joy to me.

As I matured, these outdoor explorations launched me on a path of curiosity and a broader interest in the natural world. When I went off to college in Colorado, I discovered hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing. It was an easy decision for me to major in biology, and I took every field biology course I could. This curiosity about living creatures included human beings and made my transition to studying medicine fascinating and fun.

Since living in the Pacific Northwest, I have come to enjoy kayaking and sailing in addition to hiking and biking. There’s just so much opportunity in our region! Sharing these activities with my family has brought me real pleasure, although, as our family grew, modification became necessary. A memorable extended backpacking trip with two kids in diapers was enough to convince my wife and me of the virtues of car camping.

and mental health. And experiencing the beauty of nature feeds our awe and appreciation of all that connects us.

No special training or equipment is needed!

Just provide the space and time to see, listen and feel to unleash your children’s innate curiosity and imagination. Grab some sunscreen if the weather is good or a warm raincoat if the weather is bad, and you’re on your way.

Dr. Richard Ory is a Texas native and lives with his wife in Federal Way where he is a pediatrician with Pediatrics Northwest. During his educational pursuits in Colorado, he enjoyed exploring the Rocky Mountains as his studies allowed. You might catch him hiking, skiing, sailing or biking, depending on the season and the weather.

Our board-certified allergists, immunologists & pulmonolgists specialize in diagnosis and treatment of: • allergies/hay fever • asthma/respiratory disorders • food allergies • eczema/hives • sinus problems • immune disorders • chronic cough • lung disorders

Get Outside With The Kids From a young age, most kids are drawn to the outdoors, and scientific evidence informs us of how healthy being outside can be.

Physical activity helps keep our bodies healthy.

Unstructured play time, where we can daydream and ponder the world, nurtures both physical

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TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 35

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Allergies Holding you Hostage?

5 tips to feel better immediately during spring allergy season

“People think they’re doing everything they can to battle spring allergies,” says allergist Bradley Chipps, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “But many still find themselves under siege from pollen and other allergens that appear once the weather starts to warm up. What they don’t realize is that by following a few simple rules they can make life a lot more pleasant and their allergies more bearable.”

As you start your spring allergy planning, keep these five tips from ACAAI in mind. Use them and your spring will be filled with flowers and breezes, not coughing and sneezes.

1. It may not only be allergies. In some cases the symptoms you are experiencing may not be caused by allergies alone but by another complication such as asthma. Research shows two-thirds of people with asthma also suffer from allergies, making symptoms worse during the spring season. If your symptoms include a persistent cough or feeling winded quickly, asthma could be the cause of your trouble. If this sounds familiar, consult your allergist, who can help identify the source of your asthma and help treat your allergies to manage your symptoms.

2. Take a deep dive for spring cleaning. Spring cleaning is a must for many people, but if you suffer from allergies, it’s even more important. Clearing dust and cobwebs can ease your sneezing, but for better results, roll up your sleeves and give your home a deep scrub. A thorough cleaning can eliminate allergens such as dust mites and mold, and clear the air.

3. Start your relief early on. Don’t wait for your eyes to begin watering before taking your allergy medicine. Start your medications at least two weeks before the season begins so that they will already be in your system when you really need it.

4. Clean your air effectively. When looking for support to clean the air in your home, don’t choose an ionic air filter.

These filters require more airflow to operate properly than most homes are able to provide. Instead choose a HEPA room air cleaner rated with a Clean Air Delivery Rate. If you have central air, change your filters every three months and use filters with a MERV rating of 11 or 12 to keep your air as clean as possible.

(BPT) - FROM FLOWERS POKING THROUGH THE ground to ditching heavy winter parkas, it’s easy to look forward to spring—unless, of course, you have allergies. Then, the path to warmer weather and additional daylight could be marked with watery eyes, sneezing and a runny nose.

Makes it hard to be excited, right?

It doesn’t have to.

While spring carries its own concerns for allergy sufferers everywhere, there is relief. Now is the perfect time to set plans in place to help ease your allergy symptoms before they begin.

36 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

5. Resist the urge to breathe in fresh air. After months cooped up indoors, you want a fresh breeze, but before you open your windows, beware. Opening windows allows pollen and other debris into your home where they can settle in your carpet or upholstery. As hard as it can be, you’re better off keeping your windows closed during peak allergy season. Use your air conditioning to regulate your home’s temperature instead.

For people with allergies, spring's annual arrival feels like a mixed blessing. By using the tips above, you can ensure that you have everything you need to make spring great. And you'll do so with less of the coughing and sneezing that can go with it.

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redesign

Your Life Do something each day to bring you happiness.

By Andrea Johnson

38 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 39

W

hen considering your life, it’s important to ask yourself for whom you’re living. Is it for you or for other people? If you’re not prioritizing things like self-care and creating time for yourself, you’re just sabotaging your potential. Your ideal life isn’t necessarily the realization of all your dreams, such as unending happiness and immense wealth. Instead, it’s you making the most of what you’re capable of. By redesigning your life, you can realize the importance of putting yourself first.

Be the best version of yourself. It is essential that you understand that putting yourself first does not mean you neglect others. This is not a matter of selfishness or irresponsibility. If you want to be a good person to other people, you need to be a good person to yourself first.

Think of it like money. Most financial advisors will tell you to pay yourself first. Set some money aside in a savings account before paying all your bills. Similarly, if you take time for self-care, you will have more energy when it comes time to care for others—and you will be happier when doing so.

There’s no one way to care for yourself. You need to be aware of all your needs, from work and home obligations to physical and mental needs. In any given situation, you need to think about what you can do to make things easier for yourself. Here are some examples to help you get started.

Make Lists - You might feel like there’s so much to take care of that you can’t possibly take time for you. If there are all kinds of thoughts jumbled up inside your mind, it’s time to let them out. Make lists as much as possible. These can be both long and short term. For the long term, you can make a list of goals like making sure you and your spouse have one date night a month, saving up for a down payment on a house or saving up for a nice family vacation. Shortterm lists can be for chores and errands that need to get done before the end of the week and taking an hour each night to read that book that has been gathering dust on your nightstand. You can use task management and productivity apps that help you easily write and consolidate these lists.

Take Breaks - If the only place for “break” in your vocabulary is working at a breakneck pace, you need to unwind. You might think that you are working smarter by working harder. However, you’re just going to exhaust yourself. Make sure that you are taking breaks on a regular basis. You can try the Pomodoro method of productivity, where you work for 25 minutes at a time, with short breaks in between each session. You don’t want to let yourself work nonstop until you inevitably hit a wall.

Get Help - The reason you’re feeling so constantly exhausted might be due to taking on too much at once. If you’re able to get help, you should speak up. For instance, you might be doing nearly all the chores in your house. Ask your spouse and kids to pitch in, reminding them that the more they help the more time you will have to spend with one another.

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Don’t Procrastinate - Self care isn’t about avoiding obligations; it’s about handling them properly for the benefit of your future self. Procrastination is often done out of fear. We believe that a project is so daunting that we try to comfort ourselves by avoiding it. However, we just end up hurting ourselves when we’re nearing the due date. Save yourself from stress by starting projects early. Even if it seems insignificant, it will be worth it.

Wake Up Early - You can start your day off on a much better note by getting up earlier. While your bed might be hard to resist getting out of, waking up early can be conducive to a brighter and more energetic you. You can also accomplish so much more. Give yourself a routine that makes your mornings something to look forward to. You can try yoga, meditation, going for a short walk, reading a chapter from a captivating novel and more. Best of all, you can know that you’re starting your day by focusing on yourself.

Speak Up - Part of redesigning your life means having more confidence. If there’s something you don’t like that someone keeps doing to you, let him or her know. If your boss is giving you too much work and preventing you from spending time with your family, try to negotiate with him or her.

If your best friend is being insensitive about your personal struggles, tell them. You should also be willing to cut relationships with people who are toxic toward you. Setting boundaries can be very liberating!

Learn To Say No - Being agreeable is fine, but you shouldn’t be a pushover.

If you say yes to every request, you’re going to find yourself overwhelmed.

It might make you feel guilty to tell people you can’t do something for them. However, you simply can’t do everything for everyone. If you know that you won’t be able to accomplish something, tell them you can’t in as polite but firm of a manner as possible.

Cut Back On Technology - How much do you find yourself sucked in by the hypnotic spell of your smartphone, scrolling endlessly through social media? You’re not going to feel proud of yourself when you look back on your life and see how much of it was wasted. Restrict your usage of your phone and computer whenever possible. Use this time to appreciate things like nature, the company of others or just your own thoughts.

Creating time might seem impossible to you, as there are only 24 hours in a day. However, you need to make the most of those 24 hours. Evaluate your current life and whether you’re making enough time for yourself. By prioritizing yourself, you can ultimately make the most out of your life.

By redesigning your life, you can realize the importance of putting yourself first.

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 41

Making A House A Design your home to reflect your personality

By Lindy Peterson

Y

our home should be the place in which you feel the most comfortable; a place where you can totally relax and be surrounded by things that make you feel calm and happy.

To ensure this, you want to make sure that your home reflects the person you are. When someone walks into your house, they should get a feel of who you are at heart. With that being said, there is no wrong way to style your home as long as it a reflection of you and makes you feel at peace.

Why is it important to do this? When your home reflects you, it makes it much more enjoyable to be in. Why live in a place decorated for others instead of you and your family?

If it doesn’t feel like “home” something is not right. After all, home is much more than just a place to stay; it is where your heart is.

As long as the style of your home feels right for you, there is no specific way that it needs to be done. While it may seem easy, some people really struggle to design their home in a way that they like. Thankfully, there are a few tips that can make the entire process easier. Here, we will help you to learn exactly how to make your home a reflection of you.

Here is how to make it happen.

Since the exterior of your home is not easy or inexpensive to change, you should start with the interior design. Choosing colors is the first step to making your home a reflection of your personality. The colors should be ones that you enjoy looking at and also ones that create a calming mood. Choose paint colors that transition well from room to room. Have some fun and check out shades in different light, as the colors can change depending on the time of day and location in the room.

Psychologists have spent a great deal of time studying the

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effect that certain colors have on our mood. As it turns out, colors can drastically change our mood and sway it in a certain direction. Long story short, you should pick colors that will improve your mood. There are lots of resources and ideas online. Check them out for some inspiration!

After you have spent enough time choosing colors, it is time to work on the rest of the interior design of your home. One important idea is to make sure you make it unique. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it has to contain exclusive items; they just shouldn’t be similar to the average home. When your home is filled with unique items that have special meaning to you, it becomes more personal because you know that it is original to your space. Consider putting up little pictures or designs on the walls. These objects don’t have to be the center of attention or big in size. The little things can be very powerful and help you personalize your home. Make sure to consider color combinations to ensure that these little items will match your overall color scheme.

Furniture is one of the biggest investments and plays a big role in the comfort of your home. While furniture needs to match your color combinations, more importantly, it needs to be comfortable.

Picking out pieces doesn’t always need to consist of purchasing brand new, expensive items. There are a lot of repurposed pieces that have great quality at a much cheaper price. Additionally, repurposed pieces allow you to have more customization. Something that many homeowners do is purchase their own fabric and re-upholster their furniture. Doing so allows you to have more control for mixing textures or colors. In the end, the pieces will better reflect your personality.

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Another great idea for personalizing your home is to customize the flooring. While new carpet and hardwood floors are appealing, they are not very affordable. Throw rugs are a great, stylish and affordable option and can be interchanged on a more regular basis than replacing actual flooring. They are often very trendy and can allow you a more personal touch to your floors.

An additional way to make your home more of a reflection of you is to incorporate your favorite hobbies. A lot of people have an interest or something that they enjoy doing during their down time. Whatever it is, be it drawing, cooking or reading, try to incorporate that into the design of your home. While this may seem confusing, it can actually be quite simple. For example, if you love reading, consider adding a new bookshelf to your home. Or, if drawing is your passion, hang up some of your artwork or create new pieces that match the current scheme of your home. Whatever your favorite pastime is, most likely there is a way to include it in the design of your home. This simple trick can make your home feel even more personalized.

Hopefully this provides you with a few ideas on how to make your home a reflection of your personality. None of the steps mentioned in this article are going to work for everyone when it comes to personalizing your home. What you should understand is that your home should feel comfortable no matter what it takes. Before you begin the process, plan out exactly what you want to do. Creating a well thought-out plan can help you understand how to make it happen while staying within your budget.

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Creating a

Happier You

Take the time to enjoy the outdoors

A

merica is a country built upon the foundation of hard work.

It’s in our blood. In less than 250 years, a toddler compared to other countries, we have built a nation whose decisions and actions shape the course of the entire globe from business to the environment, sports and entertainment. None of this is achieved without long hours, huge commitments and an incessant drive to always do better. Rarely does this work come without loads of stress. Stress is something we all want less of in our lives, but through our daily commitments to work, family and friends, temporary reliefs can be few and far between.

There are countless studies done on the effects of stress on the human body with almost all concluding that we need to learn to let go of the things weighing us down.

One of the simplest things we can do for a temporary stress release is to just be outside.

Absorbing sunshine helps our bodies produce vitamin D naturally, which helps maintain healthy bones and teeth, the immune system, lungs and cardiovascular system. That beach vacation you’re always dreaming about is the body’s way of telling you it needs that sunshine.

Even on a cloudy day, take your lunch break outside or walk to a nearby park to relax for a bit in the middle of the day. A midday jog or other outdoor exercise can help you recharge for a productive afternoon and recover from a stressful morning.

As we’ve adapted to a world revolving around constant screen time and needing to know information instantly, we’re becoming less conscious of how much time we stare at our devices. Our smartphone is typically the first thing we look at when we wake up and the last thing we look at before we go to sleep.

46 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

By Colin Anderson

Use your vacation time for an actual vacation.

While reducing screen time during the day is a loftier challenge, eliminating it from the start and end to our day is very achievable.

Instead of the alarm on your phone, use an old-fashioned bedside alarm clock to wake up.

Have your phone charging in another room so you aren’t tempted to grab it and start scrolling news, email and social media threads. (Don’t worry. The information will still be there in a few minutes!) This allows you to properly wake up. The same goes at nighttime. You can’t be ‘on the clock’ 24/7, so set time aside at least an hour before bed where the phone or tablet goes

away. Read a book, talk with your spouse or unwind with some music. The blue light from screens keeps our minds active, making it more difficult to fall asleep. And a good night sleep is the best way to eliminate stress.

Finally, use your vacation time for an actual vacation. Americans take some of the fewest vacation days in the world, and too often that time is spent sitting at home or trying to catch up on chores or our ‘to do’ list of projects.

Checking out from your everyday routine is vital to helping your brain refocus once your

vacation week comes to a close. Vacations can be far-off destinations or simply long weekends to a nearby lake, town or cabin. What’s important is getting out of your routine, experiencing a new place and gaining perspective on your own life. This is a time to focus on yourself and your family, so make that the top priority; work can wait. A vacation in which you immerse yourself in your surroundings and embrace the quiet and relaxation will help you recharge and be more productive when you go back to your daily routine.

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 47

TRAVEL & LEISURE

BY COLIN ANDERSON PHOTOS BY LAUREN DENOS

CRAVE! 2018 A TASTE OF .. AND TOAST TO … THE FLAVORS OF THE NORTHWEST

T

he Northwest is a region full of fresh flavors. Due to the varying climate and landscape, we are able to produce and harvest a vast assortment of vegetables, grains and herbs. The sunny, temperate climate and mineral-rich soils across Central Washington help grow some of the most incredible wine grapes found anywhere in the world. Fresh fish, oysters, clams and shrimp are pulled from the coasts of Oregon and Washington and often find their way onto one’s dinner plate in less than 48 hours. Ranchland all across the area provides well-regarded beef, and the forests of North Idaho provide a bounty of deer and elk for those loving the spirit of the hunt and preparing wild game. The traditions and flavors of this wonderful region we all call home will be on full display at an annual celebration of incredible food and drink where your taste buds will receive a workout like never before.

CRAVE! is putting the finishing touches on its second annual event, which kicks off the evening of Thursday, July 12, and continues through Sunday, July 15. The CenterPlace Regional Events Center in Spokane Valley, Washington, will host the event. The 54,000-square-foot facility will be teeming with chefs, caterers, winemakers and brewers, all of whom will be putting forth their best creations for the event. CRAVE! is the brainchild of Inland Northwest native Adam Hegsted.

Well known to frequent diners in the Inland Northwest, Hegsted is a graduate of the Northwest Culinary Academy and Art Institute of Seattle and is a 2016 James Beard Award semi-finalist. His regional restaurants include the likes of Farmhouse Kitchen & Silo Bar in Ponderay, Idaho, Eat Good Café in Liberty Lake, Washington, and several Spokane restaurants including The Wandering Table, Gilded Unicorn and recently opened Incrediburger & Eggs. Hegsted’s vision for CRAVE! is to celebrate, enrich, challenge and expand our regional appreciation of culinary, nutritional and cultural diversity. Through his connections in the culinary world, Hegsted is able to secure chefs not just from the Spokane area but the entire Northwest and other major metropolitan areas across the nation.

“We are planning on 60 chefs including 15 for each main event,” said Karen Stebbins of Vision Marketing, the team

48 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

“CRAVE! IS AN AMAZING EVENT THAT REALLY EMPHASIZES FOOD AND WINE TOGETHER; AMAZING CHEFS AND AMAZING WINES ALL IN ONE PLACE. BEFORE CRAVE! 2017, THERE HAD NEVER BEEN AN EVENT LIKE THIS IN SPOKANE.”

that’s behind putting on such an event. “We have Josh Henderson out of Seattle, Matthias Merges from Chicago, as well as others from Missoula, Lewiston and Walla Walla.”

The chef likely traveling the farthest for CRAVE! is Hugh Acheson, whose restaurants are well-known around Atlanta and Athens, Georgia.

“I was raised with three older sisters by a professor of economics, and I tired of fish sticks,” he said, “and so I got a job in a kitchen at 15.” Like many aspiring chefs, Acheson started out cleaning kitchens and prepping food, moving his way up and never looking back, happy that he could realize his dream. “I am glad I did because I found the occupation for me, where I can always be a learner and relish in the beauty of discovery each and every day.”

Acheson will be one of many guest chefs putting on cooking demonstrations during the event. Each will bring something different to the table, and guests will have a firsthand look at how they can prepare gourmet meals in their own kitchens. “I am doing a demo in which I will show people how to cook beef striploin with worldly ingredients. It will be a fun trip to Washington mixed with Thailand, mixed with the homeland of Canada and my current home of the American South,” said Acheson. “If I can do a demo where people laugh and learn and take away

one thing about making food easier, I have done my job.”

There are several ticket packages available for CRAVE!, allowing attendees to take part in the entire four-day event or pick and choose which events are most enticing. The best part about each event is that once your ticket is purchased and you’re through the door, you won’t need to worry about pulling out your wallet again as unlimited tastes and drinks are included with each session. Grand Tastings are held in the afternoons on Saturday and Sunday and feature small plates from dozens of chefs, with each plating some of their most unique and interesting creations.

This is when you will also find the demonstrations from regional and nationally acclaimed chefs. If seafood is what you’re after, you’ll want to attend the Seafood Bash on Thursday evening, which features all kinds of fresh flavors using Northwest ingredients. The Friday night theme is Foods from Around the World, and each booth will be providing their distinctive twist on popular worldly cuisines as well as dishes you might not have experienced before. Saturday night is Smoke & Fire, which features the best of the best when it comes to barbecue. CRAVE! wraps up on Sunday with a family friendly brunch and final grand tasting event.

With so much food and so many choices, it would be a shame not to find suitable beverages in which to pair these amazing dishes. Well, there’s

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 49

50 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Sip & taste the flavors!

no need to worry! The organizers of CRAVE! didn’t forget about that.

It wasn’t long ago that Spokane was home to only two craft breweries, while today new tasting rooms are popping up every couple of months.

CRAVE! looks to highlight not only regional brewers but winemakers, distillers and purveyors of hard cider as well. Mike Conway is owner and winemaker at Spokane’s Latah Creek Winery and a member of the Spokane Winery Association and Cork District—organizations that promote the many tasting rooms found across the area. With Conway’s help, Friday night’s wine selection will exclusively feature Spokane-area wines, a big benefit to both the wineries and attendees.

“Spokane is unique in that virtually every winery is family owned and operated. I can’t think of a single producing winery locally where the winemaking is not done by the owner or family. You won’t find this in any other wine area in the state,” said Conway.

After taking part in the inaugural CRAVE! in the summer of 2017, Conway was impressed, and the choice to once again participate was a no

brainer. “CRAVE! is an amazing event that really emphasizes food and wine together; amazing chefs and amazing wines all in one place. Before CRAVE! 2017, there had never been an event like this in Spokane.”

Whether you are a seasoned foodie, aspiring chef, lover of all things fresh or someone who simply loves a fun-filled summer event, there will be something for you at CRAVE! Travel packages and VIP tickets are currently available, and you can also purchase tickets for individual events at CraveNW.com. By attending the 2018 food and drink extravaganza, you are not only given a culinary experience like no other, but you are also helping the greater Spokane community as proceeds from the event will benefit 2nd Harvest and Spokane Valley Partners, which provides food and clothing to low-income families in the area. Tickets are limited, and you can save a few bucks by purchasing in advance.

The Northwest is indeed a special place and should be celebrated as such, and what better way to celebrate than with fine regional food and drink.

Mark your calendar and get ready for a culinary experience like no other.

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 51

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Cascadia

Art Museum

Discover What’s Beyond The Art

By Beth Bond

O

ne of Edmonds’ best kept secrets is the wonderful Cascadia Art Museum, which opened in 2015.

Located along the waterfront at 190 Sunset, the museum is unique in that it is a showcase for under-represented Northwest artists.

Visitors are in for a nice surprise because Cascadia is not just an art gallery but a museum, so the exhibits feature not only paintings, but artifacts like pottery, sculpture, jewelry and even furniture, which all serve to enhance the theme of the highlighted period.

David Martin is the visionary curator of Cascadia and is very excited about his plans for 2018. Just finishing its current run is the exhibit on artistic interpretations of contemporary furniture. A sneak peek of coming attractions can be found online at CascadiaArtMuseum. org.

On April 5, Cascadia will open with a new exhibit titled, “Northwest Artists Paint the World.” In the middle of the 20th century, talented painters were interested in capturing

52 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

the excitement of wild frontiers like Alaska.

Daniel Pierce was one of the first to show us his impressions of modern Alaska. His pieces are not the expected bleak and chilly tundra of Alaska but the bold, abstract angles and planes of an emerging civilization. The Tacoma native stayed on in Alaska and founded the first art department at the University of Alaska.

Adding to this April exhibit will be Louise Crow, an artist of international acclaim, who traveled to Paris and Japan for unique techniques and insight. But she received most recognition with her work depicting the plight of the Southwest Native Americans. This was a subject close to her heart, and with bright colors and strong lines she gives us a peek at the deep emotions of these native peoples.

Regardless of what the current exhibit is, the Cascadia has an atmosphere all its own. It can be a quiet, solitary visit with a brooding element, or the barely contained excitement of elementary students on a field trip. What a treat this is for them, too. A cheerful and knowledgeable docent guides them to pieces of special interest, where lively

discussions occur. The follow-up may be a craft of their own created with the inspiration of the “masters” they have just seen.

The Cascadia Art Museum is also a great place to take your out-of-town guests. There is always something new to see. And, don’t forget the fantastic museum gift shop, located in the lobby.

It boasts an eclectic collection of unique items for young and old. In addition to prints, books, and stationery supporting the current exhibit, there are decorative items for the home and educational games and puzzles for youngsters.

The Cascadia Art Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Admissions directly support the diversified work of the museum. The fee for adults is $10 and $7 for seniors and young adults. But the biggest bargain has got to be the free entry during the Edmonds Art Walk every third Thursday of the month.

Hello Sunshine!

Poulsbo Waterfront

Use Your Unused Vacation Days!

Take a break from the hectic city scene to celebrate Spring on the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula. Enjoy a walk in the woods, tour local gardens bursting with blooms, explore local shops and discover great places to eat and drink. Hop aboard a WA State Ferry or cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge for a short, scenic ride to the Kitsap Peninsula! Visit us online for lodging, dining, places to visit, things to do, shopping & community events.

SAVE THE DATES

JULY 12th-15th at CenterPlace Regional Event Center in Spokane Valley

Enjoy A Ride on the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail

For more event details visit

CraveNW.com

Arrive by Ferry, Bridge, Boat, Bike or Vehicle

for lodging, dining, and events

Visit Kitsap.com TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 53

FOOD & DRINK

Northwest Spring Crepe

BY CHEF TROY LOUIS CHANDLER

MAKES 8 CREPES SERVES 4 ENTREES OR 8 APPETIZERS Crepe Batter

Ingredients:

Spring is here and with it brings fresh, new, long-awaited ingredients for our kitchens. This is the time to get out to your local garden (otherwise known as “the woods”) and grab some truly local produce. For this recipe we will be using fiddlehead ferns and morel mushrooms.

Fiddleheads are the new sprouts of the Ostrich fern and are easy to find. Morels are a tasty spring mushroom that is a little trickier to find. There are good books on the identification of both or if you are not the foraging type, you can substitute asparagus and any mushroom of your choice. These crepes are a light spring appetizer but still savory enough to complement any cold, rainy day.

• 2 large eggs • 1 1/4 cups whole milk • 1 cup flour • 1 tbsp. butter, melted

method: • Place all ingredients in a blender and blend for 10 seconds.

• Heat a 10-inch non-stick pan to medium.

• Spray pan with non-stick cooking spray or rub with butter using a paper towel to absorb excess.

• Pour a 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and swirl the pan to get a thin even coat. Cook for about 20 to 30 seconds until top starts to look dry, or until crepe releases and is slightly browned on bottom.

• Lift crepe with a rubber spatula to flip or flip with the pan if you are feeling “chefy.” Cook on other side about 10 seconds.

Crepe FILLING

Ingredients: • 1/4 stick butter • 1 lb. fiddleheads (rinse, boil in salted water for 5 minutes, chill) • 1/2 lb. morels sliced into rings • 8 garlic cloves, minced • 1/4 cup dry white wine • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 package any flavor Boursin cheese (5.2 oz. or make your own: 1 part room-temp. cream cheese to 1/2 part room-temp. butter, minced garlic, dried herbs, food processor, boom!)

• 1 egg yolk • 1 tbsp. tarragon, chopped • Salt and pepper to taste

method: • Preheat oven to 350°F. • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook butter until it starts to become brown in color. This will create a deep caramel flavor.

• Add fiddleheads and morels and sauté about 3 minutes or until fiddleheads start to turn a light brown.

• Turn down heat to medium, add garlic, sauté for 1 minute then deglaze by adding the wine. Let wine reduce until almost gone.

(around 3 minutes).

• Crumble in cheese and stir. Add egg yolk and tarragon and simmer until thick.

• Season to taste and let cool for 5 minutes or until cool enough to touch.

• Spoon mixture (about 1/2 cup) onto one crepe, roll crepe or fold like a diaper.

Repeat with all crepes.

• Place on a lightly buttered sheet pan and bake in oven for 8-10 minutes.

REAL homeMade • Add heavy cream and reduce by half

54 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

• Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

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TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 55

FOOD & DRINK

Fun and Easy Spring Side Dish TEMPURA SPRING ASPARAGUS WITH UMAMI DIPPING SAUCE

BY CHEF TROY LOUIS CHANDLER SERVES 4

Throughout the dark winter season you have probably noticed that in order to enjoy asparagus you need to take out a second mortgage on your house. This is because it is not in season.

We have to pay the price for year-round convenience, higher prices and usually less flavor. I try to only purchase produce that is in season in my area. This can be challenging for family dinners, but is fun and brings out more creativity throughout the year. Plus an in-season local tomato tastes so much better because it is and because you waited so long for it. This is true with all produce. Right now is a great time to enjoy beautiful and inexpensive asparagus.

In fact, Washington is one of the top three largest producers of in-season asparagus in the country.

Umami Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dashi stock (dried smoked bonito/skipjack powder or flakes; Asian section of market) • 1/4 cup mirin (seasoned rice wine) • 1/4 cup soy sauce • 1/2 tbsp. sugar

method: • In a sauce pot, bring all ingredients to a boil, stir, then turn to low heat until ready to use.

Tempura Spring Asparagus

Ingredients:

• 1 Ib. fresh asparagus (cut off white-ish bottoms or shave the skin off of this part) • 1 qt. oil for frying • 1 cup sifted cake flour • 1 cup ice-cold Sprite, 7-Up or similar beverage • 1 large egg, beaten

method: • Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet to 375°F. (If you have a deep fryer, don’t let me stop you from using it.) If you don’t have a thermometer, here is a trick to know the right temp. Diagonally cut a half-inch piece of green onion and toss it into the oil. If the onion spins around in circles, it the oil is dancing and ready to rock. If the onion just sits there, the oil is not excited enough to dance. Wait and repeat.

• Mix all tempura ingredients with chopsticks (not a whisk or fork). This will create a look of unfinished batter with some lumps and dry spots; this is what you are looking for, as the glutens will not have time to develop, giving you a lighter, crispier result.

• Drop asparagus into the batter and coat well. With tongs, pick up one at a time letting excess batter drip back into the bowl.

• Place carefully into the oil, letting the asparagus fall away from you to avoid any unwanted splashing oil onto your skin or clothing. Repeat this until you have half the asparagus cooking. They are done when they are lightly golden, floating and most of the bubbles have calmed down.

Remove and place on paper towel. Repeat with the other half of the asparagus.

• Serve with your awesome dipping sauce.

REAL homeMade

56 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Spring cocktail The Caipirinha

CHEF TROY LOUIS CHANDLER gluten free 21 +

Ok, this makes for a great summer drink as well, but don’t let that stop you from making and enjoying it right now. This extremely easy-to-whip-up drink is Brazil’s national libation. It is made from the alcohol, cachaca, which is distilled from fresh cane sugar juice, unlike rum that uses molasses. Making this drink one at a time is easy and fun to do in front of your guests, who will quickly be lining up for more. You might want to grab their keys as payment because this no-mixer drink packs a punch.

Mediterranean Cuisine, Tapas, Flatbreads, Gorgeous Sunsets!

INGREDIENTS: • Simple syrup on hand (1 part sugar, 1 part water heated until sugar dissolves, then chilled) • 1 cube raw sugar

• Half a lime, cut into 3 or 4 pieces • 2 oz. cachaca (white rum will work) • 4 to 5 cubes of ice

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METHOD: 1

In a bucket glass, pour just enough simple syrup over ice to coat it. With a muddling stick, smash and grind sugar.

2

Add limes and muddle with stick.

3

Add ice and pour all into a shaker. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. Pour all back into glass and serve.

Tip: If you add mint to the muddling process and

finish with a splash of Sprite or soda, you have an awesome mojito! Cheers!

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TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 57

ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

THIS month

Decades of Tradition Continue THE ANNUAL DAFFODIL FESTIVAL IS HEADED YOUR WAY!

BY KELLIE FRENCH

S

pring has officially arrived, flowers are beginning to bloom, and what better way to welcome the season than by attending—or participating in—the 85th annual Daffodil Festival! The Daffodil Festival is dedicated to providing Pierce County with community service, leadership training and educational opportunities …. and four unforgettable parades with royalty appearances of daffodil girls and women who are actively involved in the community.

The Daffodil Festival is part of a tradition that highlights volunteerism, celebrating youth and community involvement. Registration for floats is available online at TheDaffodilFestival.org.

Variety in design is encouraged, in additional to professionalism and good taste. No candy, food or other items may be passed out or thrown during the parade. The entry fees for floats are $25 for nonprofits, $200 for small businesses and $600 for commercial floats. And of course, the event is free for all who attend!

The festival and parade kicks off April 7 at 10:15am in Tacoma and continues on to Puyallup at 12:45pm, Sumner at 2:30pm and 5pm in Orting. The annual Daffodil Festival Grand Floral Parade is a celebration of the community, history, traditions and growth of Pierce County.

The theme for this year’s parade is “Daffodil Paradise.”

According to their website, “This Festival thrives when Pierce County is at its strongest; when the support and spirit of its diverse communities come together. When they share their talents and take part in a grand tribute to the land they live in, magic happens. That’s the parade, showcasing a community at its best.”

The festival route, which consists of more than 180 entries including floats, bands, marching and mounted units, makes its way through the four cities of Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner and Orting.

Floats are decorated with thousands of fresh-cut daffodils, which have been growing in the Puyallup Valley for more than 80 years.

58 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

Whether you plan to attend the event as a spectator or participate in the parade with your own daffodil float, you truly do not want to miss this unique event. For more details about this year’s Daffodil Festival, visit TheDaffodilFestival.org.

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ENTERTAINMENT

2018 NEIGHBORHOOD CHEERS LOCAL BEERS,

NEW SERIES HIGHLIGHTS UNIQUE BREWS

BY COLIN ANDERSON PHOTOS COURTESY NARROWS BREWING CO. AND EMILY MAZE

Tacoma is a city of many distinct neighborhoods, with each bringing something unique to the city. And now you can try a unique taste of each by dropping by Narrows Brewing Co. One of the area’s iconic breweries is now offering a “Local Beers, Neighborhood Cheers” series in which Tacoma neighborhoods are paired up with their own style of beer.

“The original idea was presented at a staff meeting by Mary Asami, our multi-talented front-of-house manager,” said Scott Wagner, managing partner of Narrows Brewing Co. As the idea gained steam, the entire staff got behind the project, helping come up with the neighborhoods, what icons define them, the names, styles and labeling ideas. Head Brewer Matt Rhodes took the input and came up with the final beers and recipes, and Sue Wagner headed the charge in getting the new labels made. “As far as inspiration goes, we love the City of Tacoma and truly enjoy doing something that highlights the city as well as our local craft beer industry,” said Scott. “We are very happy with the positive support our neighborhood series is getting in the community.”

The Central District IPA was created “for a neighborhood with a passion for the dank and delicious.” April’s release is the Hilltop Haze, a hazy double IPA. Eastside, Ruston and the Stadium neighborhoods are all scheduled to be released in the coming months as well.

You will begin seeing these taps at many of your favorite restaurants and watering holes, and you can also pick up four-pack 16-ounce cans at the taproom as well.

“This series won’t be a one and done,” Scott said. “We plan to remake some of the beers from time to time so you will see them come around again.”

Whether you’re South End or Hilltop, Old Town or Central, Narrows Brewing Co. has a beer that will make you want to raise your glass with new-found pride in your neighborhood.

60 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

REAL COOL LIVE MUSIC IN THE LOFT WITH ENLOE ACOUSTIC

April 13

OPENING DAY 5K AT CHENEY STADIUM

Olalla Vineyard and Winery hosts live music with Enloe 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enloe is an alternative rock band with an eccentric sound who has set out to create visceral, unforgettable songs and live experiences.

Join Olalla for this special performance.

Those 21 and older can register to attend online at OlallaWines.com.

TILLMAN HONOR RUN

April 5

April 21

Score a double-play! Run a fun 5k with family and friends, then watch the Tacoma Rainiers’ home opener for free!

The run starts at 6pm and takes you down part of the Scott Pierson Trail and finish at Cheney Stadium. Afterward, stay at the ballpark and cheer on the Rainiers as they open their baseball season against Sacramento. Register online at MetroParksTacoma.org.

TACOMA WINED UP

Join the ASU Alumni Seattle Chapter at Cummings Park Saturday, April 21 at 10am, to run or walk 4.2 miles and raise money to support the Tillman Scholar program. A family friendly event, come together with ASU alumni, fans and members of the military community as they remember and honor the legacy of Pat Tillman. Register online at EventBrite. com.

WASHINGTON SPRING FAIR

TACOMA GUITAR FESTIVAL

April 7

April 19 - 22

April 21& 22

Spend an evening at the Tacoma Armory tasting more than 20 Northwest wines, spirits and ciders. Food and artisan vendors will be on site, and a silent auction will benefit the Broadway Center’s Arts Education programs. General admission tickets are $40 and VIP tickets are $60. Purchase tickets online at BroadwayCenter.org.

The Spring Fair in Puyallup offers tons of free attractions that the whole family will enjoy. From Motorsport Mayhem all weekend long, free music and entertainment, rides galore, NW Jr. Livestock Show and Shepherds’ Extravaganza, enjoy big fun for kids of all ages! TheFair.com/Spring-Fair

The Tacoma Guitar Festival will feature more than 150 exhibit-style booths, guitar workshops led by industry experts, live performances by well-known guitarists, guitar personality meet and greets, and a festival atmosphere. Buy, trade or sell vintage, used and new guitars, amps, pedals, mandos, banjos, ukes, vinyl records, guitar accessories and more!

TacomaDome.org

21 April

11TH ANNUAL GALA FUNDRAISER DINNER & AUCTION Help support Jamie’s Heart Foundation by attending the 11th Annual Gala Fundraiser Dinner and Auction on April 21 at Hotel Murano, benefiting children and families affected by congenital heart defects. The evening starts at 6pm and includes a wonderful reception, silent and live auction, dinner, dessert and dancing. Tickets can be purchased at EventBrite.com.

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 61

ENTERTAINMENT

THE GRAND CINEMA SHOWING IN MARCH 04/06

ISLE OF DOGS

04/06

THE LEISURE SEEKER

04/07

THE CURED

04/10

THE INSULT

04/12

WOLF WARRIOR II

04/13

FINDING YOUR FEET

04/15

GOOK

04/17

OUT OF STATE

04/18

ROMAN HOLIDAY

04/20

FOXTROT

04/24

RADIO DREAMS

04/26

IVAN

04/29

LEAN ON PETE

3RD ANNUAL RISE & SHINE BREAKFAST YWCA CELEBRATION LUNCHEON

April 25 The 2018 Annual Celebration Luncheon will feature keynote speaker Sonya Renee Taylor, founder and “radical executive officer” of The Body is Not An Apology and award-winning performance poet, activist and transformational leader. Sonya speaks on a wide range of topics including internalized oppression, racial justice, women and feminism, and violence against women. Register online at YWCAPC.ejoinme.org/acl.

62 TACOMALIVINGLOCAL

MAY

02

Help light the way for children and families Wednesday, May 2, 7:30 to 9am at the third annual Rise and Shine Breakfast. Held at Foss Waterway Seaport, experience a powerful program and learn how you can directly impact resilient children and families in our community who face trauma, abuse and overwhelming life challenges. Email events@hopesparks.org to register.

Check out TacomaLivingLocal.com for more events and information!

8TH ANNUAL GO RED FUNDRAISER

May 5 Go Red with Cascade Eye and Skin Centers and support the American Heart Association! All guests will have the opportunity to choose between one syringe of Dysport ® (similar to Botox®) or a physician-grade skin care product bundle by SkinMedica®, both valued at $250! There will also be an incredible silent auction at both sessions, and they are offering generous discounts on their products and services. Sessions are 5 to 6:30pm and 7:30 to 9pm.For tickets and additional information visit Bit.ly/gored2018.

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 10- Preservation Race: Trapped Edition at Living May May May May May May May

2018 April

TACOMA RAINIERS SCHEDULE

Fort Nisqually 10- Free Neighborhood Night at TAM 11- PCNA Annual Meeting, Silent Auction & Banquet of Laughter 12- March of Dimes South Sound March for Babies at Cheney Stadium 12 & 13- Lucky Collector Car Auction at LeMay 19-11th Annual Spring Fairy Festival at Crescent Moon Gifts 19- Rainier Dragon Boat Festival at Thea’s Park on Foss Waterway 25- Old Places, New Spaces at 7 Seas Brewing Co.

GAMES HELD AT CHENEY STADIUM Thursday, April 5 vs. Sacramento, 7:05pm Friday, April 6 vs. Sacramento, 7:05pm Saturday, April 7 vs. Sacramento, 5:05pm Sunday, April 8 vs. Sacramento, 1:35pm Monday, April 9 vs. Sacramento, 6:05pm Tuesday, April 17 vs. Albuquerque, 6:05pm Wednesday, April 18 vs. Albuquerque, 7:05pm Thursday, April 19 vs. Albuquerque, 7:05pm Friday, April 20 vs. Albuquerque, 7:05pm Saturday, April 21 vs. Sacramento, 5:05pm Sunday, April 22 vs. Sacramento, 1:35pm Monday, April 23 vs. Sacramento, 11:35am Monday, April 30 vs. Albuquerque, 6:05pm

TACOMALIVINGLOCAL 63

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TacomaLivingLocal.com PHOTO BY DIANE FETZNER

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