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Fresh Start Out with the old, in with the new-to-you!

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Places, Everyone!

Design a unique table setting for spring holidays.

The Friendly Isle

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Say “aloha” to the quiet pace of Molokai.

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Drink It In

Quench your thirst with cool, colorful cocktails.

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Across the Sea Set sail for merry, old England on the Queen Mary 2.

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Take Flight Drones are fun, and serious business too.

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THE FINDS

Philanthropy SPOTLIGHT

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Beautiful (509) 325-1815 | 2826 N Ruby Spokane, WA 99207

www . madisonhomenw . com

The 25th annual Chef’s Culinary Classic raised $81,000 for Providence Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital on Jan. 28, 2017.

The sold out, black-tie Children’s Miracle Network event at The Historic Davenport Hotel featured a Champagne Social Hour with gourmet starters by Chef Jeremy Hansen, followed by an exquisite six-course dinner prepared by Chefs Joshua Martin, Jim Wolters, Bob Lombardi, Peter Tobin and Curtis Smith, as well as faculty and students of Inland Northwest Culinary Academy, two Washington State University culinary students and a Pro Start high school student. Proceeds will fund pediatric equipment, provide services for families, and support pediatric sub-specialty clinic with diabetes equipment and educational materials for patients and families. Photos by Laurie L. Ross.

FROM LEFT: Mark Peterson, KXLY, and Kirsten and Kevin Carlile, Ice sculpture adorning silent auction table, Sweet scallops with smoked coconut.

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April 15

Building Dreams Auction West Central Community Center, westcentralcc.org/buildingdreams

May 2

Spokane Citizen Hall of Fame Spokane Library Foundation, spokanelibraryfoundation.org

May 19

A Show of Support Gala Catholic Charities Spokane, catholiccharitiesspokane.org

May 23

Women Helping Women Benefit Luncheon Women Helping Women Fund, whwfspokane.org

If your local organization is hosting a benefit or gala that you would like to see in PHILANTHROPY SPOTLIGHT, please email platinum@spokesman.com with event information (inclusion is subject to space).

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Volume III, Issue I

To advertise in THE FINDS Call Sarah Little: 509-459-5117

Publisher William Stacey Cowles Director, Sales & Marketing Kathleen Coleman Product Development Manager Daniel Fritts Managing Editor Theresa Tanner

Art Director/Designer Anne Potter Contributors Joe Butler Cheryl-Anne Millsap Dan Webster Advertising Sarah Little Lead

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COVER PHOTO CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHER Dan Cooley MODEL Amanda Bianchi (MAM) HAIR Jerrold Sobida (House of POp) MAKE-UP Julie Farley (The Make-up Studio) WARDROBE & ACCESSORIES Echo Boutique

LEISURE LUXE

P L AT I N U M

On your way to the gym? The office? A date? Stay cute and comfortable with leisure wear that edges out old-school sweats.

By Theresa Tanner

Sometimes all you want to wear is a soft sweatshirt, so the unique, tulip-edge front hem of the Criss Cross Sweatshirt adds eye-catching touch to a loungey look. $69, athleta.gap.com More put-together than a drawstring jogger, Get-After-It-Pants feature a fitted Supplex waistband, functional pockets and a relaxed style that works on the weight bench and at a casual weekend brunch. $79, titlenine.com Too much basic black in your workout wardrobe?

This vibrant Twist Headband from Kate Hudson’s line keeps your hair in place and wicks moisture from your skin. $11.95, fabletics.com Short Stop Bra offers extra coverage and comfort with broad straps while keeping cool with mesh fabric venting through the back that reveals just a bit of skin. $58, shop.lululemon.com Take it easy and keep it cool with a colorful Breeze Dress, made with a weather-friendly poly/ rayon/spandex blend that hugs without bunching.

Features a flattering drape neck and pretty pattern. $79, titlenine.com BetaBrand’s innovative approach to clothing design through crowdfunding has led to oneof-a-kind garments for the comfort-seeking professional. A modern take on traditional equestrian breeches, Yoga Riding Pants are appropriate work-wear that suit an on-the-go Northwest lifestyle. $88, betabrand.com

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Spring Style

By Theresa Tanner

It’s that time of year: spring cleaning. And you can’t forget your closet during the annual purge as you switch out your winter wardrobe for spring staples. You may even rediscover some items that you only wore once or haven’t worn in years – or at all (those price tags are a dead giveaway).

Instead of shuffling long forgotten pieces back into storage or a Hefty bag, give them a second life through consignment or resale, an economically and environmentally conscientious option for the perpetual clotheshorse.

Echo Boutique, our cover photo shoot partner, focuses on quality craftsmanship and timeless elegance in its pieces, from luxury coats to antique jewelry to designer shoes. And they accept seasonal items year-round, so remember to gather those coats and sweaters for your next appointment.

Consigners receive 40 percent of the selling price on items, or can choose to donate the proceeds to favorite local charity with Echo contributing an extra 10 percent as well.

For the photo shoot, owner Suzy Gage and staff helped us put together three outfits from the store’s collection to showcase the high-quality, name-brand items in bold colors you’ll find on racks this season, plus an assortment of jewelry and accessories to mix and match.

Mystery Date In Bloom

(cover) Fantiow floral dress, $49 Michael Kors taupe pumps, $24 Jimmy Choo red wallet, $239 Dangle pearl earrings, $42 Green jigsaw necklace, $39 Antique button necklace, $32 Malachite and shell bangles, $19-34

Clutch Players Urban Expressions bags feature fashion-forward designs and colors while maintaining a commitment to using vegan-certified materials. Soft and chic in sunny yellow, who would ever guess that the luxurious Hyde Clutch was faux suede?

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Ambition khaki trench coat, $26 Uttam Boutique geo lace dress, $69 Cole Haan nudge wedges, $89 Silk floral scarf, $14 Aqua necklace, $39

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Peak Cheek Contouring as a make-up technique has been used for centuries, but a 2012 Kim Kardashian selfie made it a mainstream trend.

Julie Farley of The Make-up Studio warns that it’s not for everyone. “You want to play up the natural shadow, not look smudged with dirt,” she said.

Julie recommends a lighter approach. Rather than a “facepainting” effect you may have seen in online tutorials, she uses a subtle technique called “reverse contour.”

1 Use a sponge wedge to apply a light pigmented power just underneath the cheekbone in a downward direction toward the chin line.

2 Brush away and blend excess powder with a powder brush.

If you leave a white streak, use a darker shade of powder to achieve a sculpted cheekbone.

3 Add depth with just a touch of bronzer under your cheekbones. Bronzer is supposed to give you a subtle, “sunkissed” look – not tan lines. Julie recommends a matte without shimmer, like Girlactik Matte Bronzer (Cabo).

For more information about contouring and products, visit themakeupstudio.net.

Butterfly Effect

Suzy Chin print dress, $59 Jimmy Choo navy pumps, $295 Urban Expressions yellow clutch, $18 Larimar necklace, $69 Larimar bracelets, $19-29 Argentum stackable rings, $44-74

Feeling feisty? A textured, elaphe snakeskin wallet in sanguine red adds a pop of drama to a little black dress or an exotic, floral print. Jimmy Choo, we choo-choo-choose you!

Smooth Operator “Bond Girl” was the theme of the day. House of POp hairdresser Jerrold Sobida wanted model Amanda Bianchi to have a polished hairstyle, and her blunt-banged bob lent itself perfectly to a straight blow-out.

Jerrold used a combination of R+Co products to give Amanda’s naturally wavy hair a sleek, frizz-free look, including High Drive Moisture and Shine Crème, Park Ave Blow out Balm and Tinsel Smoothing Oil. He used a concentrator to blow out layers of Amanda’s hair, and finished with a quick flat-iron at the ends to define the shape.

Three bags in one! With two removable straps, Hobo Darcy Convertible goes from cross body to handbag to clutch. Elegant enough for a formal affair; colorful enough for a casual walk in the park.

Another few (or six) applications of the Tinsel reduced fly-aways throughout the photo shoot without leaving a greasy residue, along with a touch of Outer Space Flexible Hairspray for good measure.

For details about available services and products, visit thehouseofpop.com.

March 2017

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family Feasting

Make your table for Easter brunch or dinner a beauty to behold

By Theresa Tanner

Egg White 1.

Start with an entirely white canvas: tablecloth, placemats, napkins, plates. Then, carefully choose pops of color and focus on shape for cohesion. Have you ever noticed that Easter favorites jelly beans, tulip petals and eggs are all ovals? Light egg-shaped candles in egg cups and sprinkle jelly beans around for more color and fun.

Speckled Nature 2.

More eggs, but with a natural touch! Use robin’s egg as inspiration with subtle blue hues and speckled patterns. To complete the setting, create a “nest” with burlap and twine accents, fresh greens and an exposed wooden table. Add some more greenery with moss and succulent centerpieces.

Color Chaos 3.

While Easter is usually associated with pastels, a vibrant explosion of color on your table emphasizes the revitalized spirit of the spring season. Chevron tablecloths, floral embellishments, patterned dishware dishes and polka dot napkin ribbons – put them all together for a cheerful “Alice in Wonderland”-esque event.

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Cheers to Simplicity

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easy-to-make cocktails with five ingredients or less.

It’s in our nature.

S TAY & P L AY PAC K AG E S FROM

By Theresa Tanner

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One Night Stay & Golf for Two

Blood Orange Mimosas

A vibrant twist to a brunch classic!

INGREDIENTS

Three parts sparkling wine, chilled One part blood orange juice Blood orange slices and/or raspberries to garnish

ŏ îljlj ăƗƑěƗĊƆĊ È %e e Fckţ ka È *See website for details and restrictions.

Pour juice over sparkling wine and serve with garnish.

Green Tea and Whiskey

Want a refreshing, herbal drink without the extra sugar of a sweet tea? Try this popular cocktail from China on the rocks.

INGREDIENTS

One part whiskey Four parts green tea Lemon wedge to garnish Prepare green tea to preferred strength and chill. Fill glass with ice. Add whiskey and stir. Pour tea over, and garnish with lemon. Adapted from uk.thebar.com.

Watermary Rosemelon

(serves 4) When spring turns to summer, grab a big beautiful watermelon and create an invigorating drink for an afternoon cool-down.

INGREDIENTS

2 sprigs of fresh rosemary 1/2 cup vodka 1 cup watermelon juice 1/2 cup lemon lime soda Lime wedge, watermelon slices and/or rosemary to garnish Blend chopped watermelon (rinds removed) in a food processor until smooth.

Strain to remove excess solid pieces.

Muddle rosemary in cocktail shaker. Add vodka and watermelon juice. Add ice and shake to chill. Pour over ice, and top with soda and garnishes.

Adapted from lifeasastrawberry.com.

March 2017

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Life in 3D

By Theresa Tanner It’s not surprising that 3D printing is primarily associated with industry and technology. The process allows for quick prototyping by product developers and the manufacturing of mechanical parts.

But as the prices of 3D printers drop – desktop versions range from about $300 to $1,000 – it’s becoming a popular home hobby to make toys, trinkets and other oneof-a-kind objects.

repairs and software updates).

“We’ve had some kids come in, but it’s mostly adults who are quite skilled,” said librarian Danielle Milton.

The library offered an introductory course for teenagers last summer to

If you’re interested in investing in a 3D printer, you can take a test run at the Spokane Valley Library with the Ultimaker 2.

The machine is free to use for anyone with a Spokane County Library District card (Spokane and Liberty Lake residents can use the program if they apply for a SCLD card through the library’s reciprocal agreement program). Just review and complete the online form at scld.org/3d-printing/ to request an appointment for up to five projects per month.

Since the launch of the program, the machine is consistently in use by library members (save for technical

herself created a light switch cover with a key hook that she uses every day.

In the lower level of the Spokane Valley Library, Milton displays a ‘Wall of Fail’ of projects. “If the filament doesn’t adhere properly, it results in this sort of cotton candy creation, so we have to adjust the settings and try again.” she said. “Despite some technical issues, we’ve had fun learning.”

Library staff is available to help firsttime printers, and Milton noted that lynda.com (accessible with a library card) has helpful video tutorials. She also recommends that beginners check out free websites tinkercad. com and thinkiverse.com to learn about computer-aided design (CAD) software or customize projects.

make bookmarks. Other projects have included cookie cutters, smart phone holders, ship models and fishing lure pieces, among many others. Milton

In February, the 3D printer will be moved from the main level to a media lab with other multimedia equipment for video editing and filming. There’s

The Ultimaker 2 uses a gray, polyactic acid (PLA) filament – a corn-based, biodegradable plastic – which the library sets at a 20 percent fill density; the density can be adjusted based on project requests.

Projects are limited in size (maximum build volume of 8.77 x 8.77 x 8.07 inches) and duration (up to 12 hours, during library hours only).

a creative space for projects like 3D printing, although nothing has been finalized.

also the possibility that the North Spokane Library remodel will include

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By Joe Butler

hether you’re browsing junk shops for collectibles or seeking highend heirloom furniture – it’s all about the thrill of the search, the joy of discovery and the satisfaction in finding the perfect piece.

Our area is home to dozens of second-hand shops ranging from charity thrift shops to sprawling antique malls to specialty furniture stores. A trip north along Monroe Street or parts of Sprague Avenue can be the ideal way to spend an afternoon saying everything from “I used to have this” to “I need this.”

Treasures of the past abound, but you may need to do serious digging through dusty basements or attics to come away with winners. Or avoid crowded markets and visit an establishment like Lillian Conn Antiques, Interior Design, and Art Gallery, which features upscale 19th and 20th century furnishings and refined décor along with local original artwork.

For a successful shopping expedition…

Know your terms.

Don’t get hung up on semantics of “not new stuff,” but generally

something antique is 50-100 years old. If it’s 25-50 years old, it’s vintage. If it’s under 25 years, it’s retro. Shabby chic is reimagined retro. A collectible is really anything that catches your eye, regardless of price or provenance.

Don’t trust the price tag. There’s a mentality that a) if it’s expensive, it’s the real deal; and b) if it’s cheap, it’s fake. Both assumptions get shoppers into trouble. Take a close look at the item, including asking to see artwork outside of the frame, and check price ranges online or in current price guides. You can also request proper paperwork. For instance, Cisco’s Gallery in Coeur d’Alene offers letters of authentication and succession of ownership documentation for items in its special collections, including Gen. George Armstrong Custer’s personal possessions.

Ask for help.

Certified appraisers have advanced knowledge of certain antiques, including Oriental rugs, silver, glassware, porcelain, firearms or different styles or periods of artwork. Some shops have in-house appraisers, while others can be hired as needed. The American Society of Appraisers is one resource.

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Hidden Hawaii Fewer crowds and just as much to do on beautiful Molokai

By Dan Webster

®

New vacation-driving rule of thumb: Never stop at Mile Post 25.

That rule is something I adopted during a trip my wife and I made in early December to the Hawaiian island of Molokai. And it requires explanation.

First, though, let’s address the more obvious question: Why Molokai?

Eight major islands comprise the state of Hawaii, and only six are viable targets for the average tourist.

Of those, Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii (aka the Big Island) are the most visited; Lanai, meanwhile, appeals more to those with Bill Gates levels of money.

Which leaves Molokai. Fifth largest of the islands and boasting a population of about 7,300, Molokai is hardly anyone’s first choice for a Hawaiian holiday.

Molokai continues on page 12

March 2017

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But for the experienced Hawaiian traveler – one who wants to escape the crowds on Oahu or Maui – Molokai may serve as the perfect alternative. As more than one travel site will tell you, Molokai is Hawaii as it once was.

But our favorite was Dixie Maru Beach (Kapukahehu). Located a couple of miles south of Papohaku, it sits in a protected cove, offers free parking and – not least – great sunset views.

By that I mean the island – “The Friendly Isle,” as it is known – supports a single hotel and a lone nine-hole golf course. No luxury resorts. No Michelin-starred restaurants. Not one stoplight on the entire island, which measures a bare 38 miles long, 10 miles wide.

Comfort Food True enough, Molokai has no gourmet eateries. Not like on Maui where, for example, we ate a great meal at the Kaanapali Beach Hotel’s restaurant, the Tiki Terrace.

But enough of what won’t be found on Molokai.

Here’s what you will find.

Few public facilities are more user-friendly than the small, open-air Molokai Airport – unless it’s the rental-car facility located barely 100 steps across the parking lot.

Halawa Valley

Kaunakakai, the island’s only real town, is basically a single main street filled with a mix of old and new businesses. Most cater to locals rather than to tourists, though souvenirs can be found pretty much anywhere.

As for that previously mentioned new vacationdriving rule …

After braving several miles of basically one-lane driving around Molokai’s east end, I balked at Mile Post 25, where the road dipped down into darkness and looked too treacherous for our rental car.

We stayed at the seaside Hotel Molokai, although a number of condo and other vacation rentals are available within a few minutes drive of Kaunakakai.

Those with a desire to find a more remote spot might opt for the Puu O Hoku Ranch, which provides meals made from food grown on site.

Breathtaking Beaches Nothing says Hawaii more than the beach, and Molokai’s 106-mile coastline has its share, whether you’re interested in bodysurfing, snorkeling or just lounging on the sand.

Situated next to the Kakahai’a National Wildlife Refuge, Kakahai’a Beach Park is just a short drive from Kaunakakai and offers an array of public facilities, from restrooms to picnic stands, not found elsewhere (always bring your own water). Papohaku Beach, located on the island’s west side, is billed as Hawaii’s “longest white sand beach.”

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The park is accessible three ways: a 3.1 mile hike down a trail carved into sheer cliffs, a mule ride down the same trail or a short flight from Molokai Airport.

Even if you skip a visit, you can still experience something of the colony by driving to the Kaluapapa Overlook. A short hike will take you to the cliff’s edge, which affords a scenic view of the whole peninsula.

The ease of Molokai life continues along the island’s two major roadways, where – unlike traffic-clogged Oahu and Maui – you might drive for several minutes without seeing another car.

And that was barely a start.

Most people know Molokai because of Kaluapapa, which once was a haven for those afflicted with Hansen’s disease – more commonly known as leprosy. Though Hansen’s disease is now curable, some eight residents still choose to live in the colony.

Park access is strictly regulated, though guided tours are available. Our tour included a stop at the grave of Father Damien (the Belgian priest famous for his work in Kaluapapa), lectures on the park’s history and a stunning view of the island’s 3,000-foot sea cliffs – reputed to be the world’s tallest.

Easy Access

Wherever you stay, though, nothing on Molokai is too far away. Over our five-day visit, we stopped at pretty much every place the guidebooks suggest.

Among them were the Molokai Plumeria Orchard (where you can buy hand-made leis), the R.W. Meyer Sugar Mill (now a historical site), Coffees of Hawaii (great coffee bar), the Big Wind Kite Factory (best souvenirs) and even the U.S. Post Office at Hoolehua (where you can “Post-a-Nut,” or send home a personally inscribed coconut).

Kaluapapa National Historical Park

PHOTO: DAN WEBSTER

For local fare, especially at places that might feature some Hawaiian music, you might try the popular Kaunakakai night spot, Paddlers Inn. Meanwhile, nearby Molokai Burger offers one of the best hamburgers I’ve ever eaten.

Oahu-made Dave’s Ice Cream (“No. 1 ice cream in Hawaii”) has a shop in Kaunakakai, just a short walk from the Kanemitsu Bakery, which is famous for serving specialty hot bread. We dropped by late one night for some freshly baked, extremely tasty, cinnamon bread.

For bona-fide Hawaiian dishes, though, try the Kualapuu Cookhouse. For breakfast one morning, I ordered the Cookhouse Special (fried egg on a plate of fried rice), while my wife enjoyed a plate of eggs, homefries and extra-crispy bacon. And we bought a souvenir T-shirt.

Big mistake. I later learned that if I’d driven just two more miles, I’d have reached my objective: the Halawa Valley, which guidebooks rate as one of the island’s most majestic sights.

We made a return trip the very next day in a steady rain that, by the time we reached Mile Post 25, had turned torrential. But this time I pushed on.

And we made it. To the very end of the paved road.

We might have gone farther, at least on foot, for a better view of Halawa Valley’s two waterfalls. But it was still raining. Hard. So good sense, finally, took over.

And here’s another vacation rule: If you leave something undone, you’ll be better tempted to return.

And this you can be sure of: We’ll definitely return to Molokai.

- Dan Webster is a former Spokesman-Review reporter who writes about movies and more at Spokane7.com.

COVER: Molokai beach at sunset, Dan Webster photo.

INSET CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Post-a-Nut, Dave’s Hawaiian Ice Cream (Dan Webster photos) and Molokai Plumeria Orchard (Mary Pat Treuthart photo).

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March 2017 13

LEISURE

TRANSATLANTIC TRAVELS

Get the royal treatment on a luxury liner designed for ocean voyages

By Cheryl-Anne Millsap

From the moment we stepped aboard the great Cundar liner, the Queen Mary 2, at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal in Red Hook, we knew we were on the trip of a lifetime. The QM2 is a beautiful ship, elegant and spacious and awash in British charm, and the only ship making regular crossings from New York to Southampton. I looked forward to the luxury of relaxing on a slow route to Europe, skipping the unpleasantness of airports and airplanes.

Our departure was quiet and classic. We sipped champagne, listening to live music and the mighty ship’s horn. We cheered and waved flags as the New York City skyline faded into the distance and – when a sudden and dramatic late-afternoon spring storm blew up just as we slipped past the Statue of Liberty – it only added to the fun. As we skimmed under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge with what felt like only inches to spare, the bridge was illuminated with shafts of sunlight breaking through the dark clouds.

Something for Everyone My first mistake was thinking we would spend the crossing in leisure, cocooned in our stateroom or one of the numerous lounges around the ship, or, better still, planted in a comfy chair in the ship’s library with a good book. We did some of that, but I quickly discovered the Queen Mary 2 offers more entertainment and activities than you can

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possibly do in seven days. Movie screenings, top-notch speakers, an on-board planetarium (yes, really!), blissing out in the spa and salon there was no shortage of ways to fill the hours.

Each afternoon there were delicious goodies at tea time, and we could enjoy music in one of the lounges or see a show after dinner.

I did spend some time in the library (one of the largest at sea) and I bought a couple of books at the bookstore that were at that time available in the U.K. only, but they were souvenirs to be read when I returned home.

Star Gazing and Gazing at Stars There was one elemental pleasure that didn’t require dressing up or even leaving our room.

Standing out on our sheltered balcony, my hair whipping in the brisk wind, I could look up at an amazing display of stars. The sky, when clear, was brilliant.

And, of course, because you never know just who is crossing the Atlantic on the great liner with you, we got a special treat when movie director Wes Anderson and a few of his close friends, including Tilda Swinton, took the same voyage. Anderson screened several of his movies, with Swinton, Jason Schwartzman and Roman Coppola adding their commentary. The group was often seen out and about aboard the boat.

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QUEEN MARY 2 A Room and a View

Wardrobe to Win

Stateroom options on the QM2 run the gamut from the spacious and luxurious Queens Grill suites and Princess Grill suites to the recently-added single staterooms. Our stateroom in the Brittannia Club was both beautiful and comfortable. It featured a large bed, a sofa and desk and a large-screen satellite television. We also had a sheltered balcony (weather can be rough at certain times of the year) and made use of it whenever possible. But, that said, I wouldn’t hesitate to choose an oceanview stateroom on our next cruise. There are so many activities and beautiful places to pass the time as you cross the Atlantic, we weren’t in the stateroom much at all.

The suggested packing list found on the QM2 website is comprehensive and somewhat intimidating. If you packed everything on the list, you’d need a couple of suitcases. I’m more of the carry-on type, but we opted to share one larger suitcase (our “large” may be your “medium”) with two small under-the-seat carry-on bags. We were planning to spend a few days in London after the cruise, but I still packed light.

Dining in Style Queen and Princess Grill passengers dine in the exclusive Princess Grill. We took most of our meals in the Brittannia Club Restaurant. Our table had a view of the sea and the service was excellent. The King’s Court buffet offered another option for more casual dining. On certain evenings, a portion of King’s Court becomes a small specialty restaurant and offers a quiet spot for dinner. For a change of pace and a special night out, the Veranda Grill’s French menu is just the ticket (there is an additional charge for meals in the Veranda Grill).

Our transatlantic crossing was as wonderful and memorable as I’d hope it would be. Of all the places and ways I’ve traveled, it’s still at the top of my list of experiences. The British pound is down, now making London more affordable than it has been for American travelers in years. If you have a travel wish list, you might want to put a transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2 somewhere near the top. It’s a wonderful experience and one I hope to have again.

Instead of the recommended three formal gowns and two cocktail dresses, I packed one simple black evening gown, one little black dress and a beaded top to wear over black ankle-length pants.

I’ve always believed that most people are paying more attention to what they’re wearing than you, so I was comfortable with keeping my wardrobe simple and changing things up with accessories.

Anyway, in this case, everyone was paying attention to what Tilda Swinton was wearing.

One more pair of black pants, a stack of white shirts, some pretty silk scarves and a couple of lightweight cashmere sweaters let me dress for every occasion. One pair of heels, one pair of black flats and a pair of comfortable but stylish walking shoes, plus a raincoat and an umbrella, and I had everything I needed for the cruise and our London vacation.

- Cheryl-Anne Millsap writes about travel and lifestyle from her home in Spokane.

All photos from: at www.cunard3queens.com

March 2017

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LEISURE

e t a n e v u j e R RELAX &

As Mother Nature sheds her winter layers, a spa day readies you for a new season

By Joe Butler Forget New Year’s resolutions; spring is actually a better time to seek self-improvement – and area spas are happy to oblige.

After months of cold trudging through snow, consider a massage to soothe stiff muscles. Maybe get a jump on swimsuit season with smooth, tanned skin and get those tootsies properly tuned up for open-toed footwear.

“Once the snow starts to melt, people are starting to think about manicures, pedicures, getting their sandals out and figuring out where they’re going for spring break,” said Yvonne Smith, director of spa, resort and retail at Northern Quest Resort and Casino’s LaRive Spa. “With more sunlight, they’re also thinking about getting highlights or a new cut.”

Special occasions like Mother’s Day and graduation are also fine pretexts for spa treatments.

Northern Quest Casino

LaRive Spa

“Some people like buying gift certificates for Mom, others like to set up spa days for everyone,” Smith said. “One trend we’re seeing is more families coming in, not just mothers and daughters, but husbands and wives, or kids from college wanting to spend time together with everyone.”

Several local spas offer warmer-weather specials that may tempt you if you need a “spring cleaning” yourself.

“Golfers Relief,” Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Spa Ssakwa’q’n, Worley The opening of local links is another sign that winter is mostly in the rear-view mirror, so golfers and even nongolfers will appreciate a hour-long de-stress muscle massage, a 30-minute facial, and 60-minute golf pedicure. cdacasino.com

Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Spa Ssakwa’q’n

Botox party, Spa Paradiso, Kendall Yards Round up four or more gal pals for an afternoon of wrinkle relaxing and general pampering. Your group can occupy a private party room and everyone gets discounts on injections plus goodie bags. Bring along bubbly, wine, or snacks, or arrange delivery from nearby Sweet Frostings or Veraci Pizza. spaparadiso.com “Beautiful Me,” The Brick House, Spokane Valley Let your cares subside for nearly six hours as you enjoy this deluxe package featuring a full-body sugar scrub, a mud or herbal wrap, a therapeutic massage; and more services, all surrounded by rose petals, seasonal aromatherapy and light appetizers. The spa also recently completed a major makeover and is even more appealing. brickhousemassage.com Spa Paradiso, Kendall Yards

The Brick House, Spokane Valley

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Eyes In The Sky

Seeking something easy and simple to fly this spring? Stick with kites!

By Joe Butler While partially facetious, that advice has been muttered by more than one drone owner or retailer who will tell you that this hobby isn’t all fun and games – and the flying part isn’t easy either.

electronics or framework damage may be permanent. Oh, and don’t forget that the propellers can cut skin if held incorrectly, and batteries can explode if improperly charged.

If you’re curious about seeing the world from new angles this spring, take some drone-related info to heart:

Know the law. Drone owners must keep them out of restricted airspaces, and cannot trespass or interfere with law enforcement/public safety. The FAA requires recreational owners to pay $5 to register any drone between 0.55 pounds and 55 pounds. Prospective pilots who use drones for professional purposes, such as surveying or photography, must earn a FAA Remote Pilot in Command certification that includes a written test and completion of an authorized pilot training course.

They’re not toys. There are cheap, lightweight plastic toy remote-controlled helicopters that can be found under $30 that pretty much shatter on impact. But the more sophisticated unmanned vehicles are more stable, can take high-quality photos, and have hefty price tags. The DJI Phantom 4 quadcopter includes a 720 pixel camera, a nice hovering feature, and can cost $1,000-$3,000. The Xiro Xplorer with a 4K camera, 1080p video and extended range costs around $400-$600.

They break easily. One bad crash from operator error or power loss can damage your device. Propellers can sometimes be replaced with little difficulty, but shattered

Drones can be purchased ready-tofly or unassembled, from local hobby shops, including Hobbytown in Spokane or Paradox Music and Hobby in Coeur d’Alene, or through mail-order outlets.

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March 2017 17

LEISURE

Let’s Dance!

Put on your red shoes and dance the blues (of winter) away.

By Theresa Tanner

After a long, lazy winter spent indoors, out of the snow and rain, consider introducing a new activity into your weekly fitness routine: dance lessons.

Melissa Finke, owner of Dance Class Spokane, began teaching dance lessons 21 years ago and started her own business four years later.

Most students have three reasons for taking dance lessons.

“The most basic is ‘the wedding dance,’” said Melissa in an email interview. “Then there are those that have been fascinated with ballroom for years. Probably the most fun group is couples who are looking for a skill they can learn and share with their significant other for years to come.”

Many students are “empty nesters” who now have time to learn a new skill, although some of Melissa’s students are still in high school.

Most classes mix long-time students with new students, which Melissa says creates a wonderful environment.

“The new students get the benefit of their experience and “regulars,” as we call them, are forced to work on their basic footwork, which is often easy to skip over,” she said.

Melissa’s favorite dance to teach is the American Tango because the strong beat drives the steps and adds confidence, especially for male dancers who can get overwhelmed with the elements of leading, but her most popular class is Swing.

“I think people think it looks fun and carefree and therefore should be easy. Interestingly, once class begins and the shock wears off from realizing there is structure in Swing, the men appreciate the rules,” Melissa said.

Before your first class, Melissa cautions to not spend time watching tutorials on YouTube, where good instructors are difficult to find. Besides that, “we recommend simply to dress respectfully and comfortably, and bring an open mind,” Melissa said.

Learn more about different types of dance lessons available at danceclassspokane.com.

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Inspiration To Move

®

You Deserve to

You won’t be able to sit still after watching the fun numbers in some of our favorite dance films.

By Theresa Tanner

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2017 Audience Screening Swing Time (1936)

The “reluctant dance partner” trope was practically invented by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, as displayed this Depression-era screwball comedy.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

“I carried a watermelon.” “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” “Where is my beige iridescent lipstick?!” Words to live by.

Strictly Ballroom (1992)

Baz Luhrmann’s first film takes the audience behind the scenes in the colorful but cutthroat world of competitive ballroom dancing, with an “ugly duckling” transformation for good measure.

Shall We Dance? (1996)

This charming Japanese film, remade in 2004 with Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez, follows an ambivalent accountant and family man who finds joy in his secret pursuit of ballroom dancing.

Step Up (2006)

An otherwise predictable teen dance flick that deserves one point of praise: launching Channing Tatum’s career, and introducing him to future wife in co-star Jenna Dewan.

La La Land (2016)

This pairing of Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as artists trying to make it big in Hollywood brings back the magic of classic musicals – along with some of the greatest choreography anyone has witnessed on a major freeway.

Saturday, May 6th The Bing Crosby Theater 901 W Sprague Ave

Short Films, Live Music, Spoken Word & Art Exhibits!

Choose your favorite short film from our top 16 finalists.

Full event information at

50hourslam.com

spokesman.com

March 2017 19

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