Trending Northwest - Fall 2022 Volume 1 Issue 1

FALL 2022

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1

SPARKLE WITH SLOWER LIVING

Fall on i h s Fian 2022

FALLFEST IN THE NORTHWEST SWEATER WEATHER

CATEGORY

JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED...LITERALLY. Dietitian-approved science-backed meals made with whole food ingredients.

Made by professional chefs, designed to be delicious.

New seasonal menus weekly. Delivered fresh every Monday.

pantryfuel www.pantryfuel.com FA L L 2 0 2 2

Order at www.pantryfuel.com or Shop our kiosk at The Bohemian

CATEGORY

CONTENTS

34

Thrift your way to Vintage

CURRENT

05

10

Party it up with Electric Photoland

10 14 20

COVER STORY

50 Fall Activities in the Northwest MEET

T.S The Solution Electric Photoland Esteban Herevia Jr. BEING

COVER STORY

23

Self Care: Reflection & Action

27

The Art of the Beauty Ritual MUSE

30

10 Fall Fashion Trends in the PNW BITE

33 41

Top 10 Best Mac & Cheese in Spokane Vegetarian Thanksgiving SIP

48

5 Lounges with Innovative Drinks SHOP

40

Let nature be your soul's Fall oasis

51

The Best Chocolate Made in the PNW

54

Thrifting Your Way to Vintage

61 66 70

WANDER

48 Hours in Tacoma Forest Bathing FUN

Horoscopes WORK

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Aly Korchemniy: A Woman of influence

1

CATEGORY VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1

From the Editor

in a e v i l I lad ers." b o t c “I’m so g O e r here a t e r e h w world L. M. MONTGOMERY, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES

SWEATER WEATHER With the changing of the seasons in the Northwest, we all get

newest contributor (and Spokane Falls Community College

passage of time, and especially in the fall,

intern extraordinaire) Shaye Hubbard - the most epic list

the fleeting nature of life. As the leaves

of the best macaroni and cheese from around the Inland

descend from the branches of trees

Northwest.

years and decades old alike, we stare up in wonder during the grand display and then feel a little colder, a little more alone, when all that greets us are bare branches and frost.

Inside your cozy abode we have some ideas that hope will make your shortened days a little more relaxing with nourishing comfort foods with Monika Jacobsen and Kim Lehr gives us her secret recipe that you’re going to want to make again and again through the colder months, and

This month we share about all things

Madam Stina Rae has some great tips to share about how to

cozy. From the fashion that protects us

practice self-reflection.

from the newfound chill in the air (while still keeping us looking snatched) to the P H O T O B Y T A N YA G O O D A L L S M I T H OF WORKSTORY PHOTOGRAPHY

one at a time. Another list you won’t want to miss is by our

a touch sentimental. It reminds us of the

foods that warm our bodies and our souls, and making your home ready for gathering with friends and family, we hope to usher in this new, beautiful season with you.

Most of all, we want to give you the gift of the excitement that we all feel about sweater weather here at the magazine.

We aren’t yet done being outdoors before the snow flies.

Molly Lindquist teaches us about the science behind forest

Another brand new contributor shares her gift with us this month, and it’s already one of our most popular articles amongst our staff writers. Lola Stardust shares spookily accurate horoscopes that will surprise and challenge you as we experience the full moon in full effect.

We hope you feel inspired to get reading, and enjoy all of the extra goodness tucked inside our latest issue.

Cheers to cozy season,

bathing, and Christine Burns spills the tea on all of the best places to enjoy fall around the Northwest in the form of our ultimate fall bucket list you will want to save and check off

CONTRIBUTORS

and digital strategy educator with a passion

M E L I S S A B E R R Y has

for equity and inclusion. Erin has been

lived in the Pacific Northwest

E R I N P E T E R S O N grew

published and featured in a wide variety of

for eight years, primarily in

up in Post Falls, Idaho and

local publications including the Spokesman

became a professionally

Review, The Inlander, and has served as

Phoenix, Arizona, Melissa also lived in Denver,

certified educator – earning

an editor at Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living

Colorado for two years. A freelance travel

the Provost’s Award for academic

magazine. If you want to learn more about

writer and podcaster, Melissa co-hosts the

achievement and community service from

how she is making an impact right here in the

popular and award-winning podcast, Trending

Lewis-Clark State College. Now she is an

Northwest, give her a follow on Instagram at

Northwest. Melissa has been featured in

award-winning local influencer, podcaster

@trending.northwest or Trending Northwest

Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living magazine,

on Facebook.

Spokane Talks, and the Inlander. You can follow

2

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Spokane, Washington. Born in

CONTRIBUTORS along with her adventures at @everydayspo-

of Atomic Threads Boutique. She can help give

healthful, wholesome, flavorful, and creative

kane on Instagram and on Facebook.

insight on your sex and relationship needs

meals. Join her to share some of those meals

and curiosities.This space is a judgement

and her small batch, local products with your

free zone where you are welcome to ask

family’s table. Find her delicious meal ideas at

some of the most personal questions with

@whatcheescooking on Instagram.

CHRISTINE BURNS earned her degree from Eastern Washington University with a major in Business Marketing, a minor in Visual Communication

total anonymity. Follow along with her at @

C A R L I E L E E earned a

atomicthreadsboutique.

Master’s in Biology from

Design, and a professional certificate in

A L E X I S A G E is a traveling

User Experience Design. She brings 10+ of

makeup artist, hair artist

experience in social media marketing and

and beauty expert based in

the Pacific Northwest and especially loves

Spokane, Washington. She is

the local community and how supportive

marketing management to the team. After

Washington State University.

She grew a deep love for

receiving her degree, Christine went on to

recognized throughout the Spokane area and

everyone is of one another. Locally, she enjoys

market for the 4th largest jewelry company on

beyond for her ability to bring out a person’s

sipping on creative cocktails and keeping up

Etsy. Afterward, Christine became the Content

most beautiful version of themself. From the

with the ever-expanding beer scene. Follow

Director at the award-winning BLUE541, part

movie set to everyday, she knows the secrets

along at @spokane_drinks on Instagram.

of the Hagadone Corporation. Follow her on

to make us look our best. Follow her on

Instagram at @postedconsulting.

Instagram at @alexi.sage.

H A I L E Y K E L L E R is a journalistic writer with an

L I Z R O G N E S (she/her) is a

LAUREN TRIVISON

writer, musician, teacher, and

After graduating from Gonzaga

mom. She is a songwriter, a

in 2020, Lauren moved back

wants to make sure everyone has a seat at the proverbial table. When not fervently

empathic soul, and likes to (loudly) speak the truth. She

composer, and an essayist,

to Olympia to start her own

and she co-founded Girls Rock Lab, a youth

fashion page on Instagram. She also worked

championing the success of all those around

music program that amplifies the voices

at her local Nordstrom where she learned to

her, Hailey likes to visit the Gaiser Conservatory

of girls and queer kids. She has an MFA in

dress all sorts of women. While the west side

within Manito Park, spend hours on Etsy and

Creative Writing from Eastern Washington

was fun, Lauren dearly missed Spokane and

consume sugary treats. Her time working at

University, where she is now a Senior Lecturer

recently moved back to reacquaint herself

Eastern Washington University solidified her

in the Department of English and Philosophy.

with the city. Now she shares daily outfit and

passion of advocating for those unable to

lifestyle posts with her girls online!

advocate for themselves and establishing

ESTEBAN HEREVIA JR.

connections with people around the

(he/him/his) is the President

S H AY E H U B B A R D is an

and CEO of Spokane

intern at Trending Northwest

Pride - the organization

set to graduate SFCC with a

M O L LY L I N D Q U I S T is a

that produces the Spokane Pride Parade

community interested in doing the same.

degree in Digital Marketing

Spokane photographer who is

and Festival. He co-founded Wonderfully

and Social Media Specialty. She is a major

also on the Board of Directors

Made Spokane, a non-profit entrusted with

foodie and loves everything involving art from

increasing inclusion and celebration of

painting, crocheting, cooking, drawing, and

She loves supporting both Manito Park and

LGBTQ+ people in faith communities. Esteban

teaching. She has three very busy kiddos who

local artists. She has been privileged to help

is the Strategist for Health Justice and

keep her moving all day long and she still finds

establish Manito Park's first Art Festival.

Belonging at the Washington State University

time to write captivating articles about top

Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. And, he was

products and services in our region!

recently recognized in the Spokane Coeur D’Alene Living 20 under 40 list for 2021.

for the Friends of Manito.

BAILEY BOWERMAN Bailey is a self-proclaimed

K I M L E H R is a bar/restau-

recovering attorney and

rant industry veteran who

late bloomer. She loves

M A D A M S T I N A R A E is

owns The Accompaniment

words, rest, and hyping entrepreneurs

an advocate and mentor

Co. and is obsessed with all

and creatives. She lives in Idaho with her

in both the queer and kink

things pickled. Most importantly? She’s a wife

husband and is decidedly and unapologeti-

communities and co-owner

and mom who wants to feed her family more

cally NOT outdoorsy.

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CURRENT

Fall Activities Pacific Northwest

50 IN THE

BY

Christine Burns

The nights are getting cooler and the sun is setting earlier and earlier. Fresh fruits and vegetables from the local harvest are making their way to the neighborhood markets.

People are booking their hockey tickets and whispers of Halloween costumes can be heard here and there. It’s Fall in the Northwest!

Autumn in the Northwest is nothing short of magical with leaves that change color, fun activities, and laughter around every corner. Trending Northwest wants you to experience all of the magic and splendor our area has to offer.

While autumn doesn’t officially start until September 21st, many people began celebrating fall right after Labor Day weekend until Thanksgiving. During this time, you can find something for everyone - from family-friendly fun to 21+ events.

It was difficult to narrow down but here are our top 50 fall activities in the Northwest:

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September

ACTIVITIES IN THE NORTHWEST

Go to the Spokane County Interstate Fair

Campbell House Tours

The Spokane County Interstate Fair begins

Spokane’s most famous haunted houses. Fall

the Friday following Labor Day and features

in Spokane is the perfect time to see what

rides and attractions, locally-raised livestock,

ghosts and ghouls linger in the walls and listen

Say cheers at Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest on

a rodeo, live music, exhibitors, and much more.

to spooky stories. Check out the spooky tour

September 16th-17th in downtown Coeur

Redeem a discount on admission when you

on September 15th and October 20th.

d’Alene. From the delicious downtown

bring a coat to support Coats 4 Kids!

Kootenai County Farmers Market

The legendary Campbell House is one of

Oktoberfest - starting in September and running through October.

Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest

restaurants to 20 different craft brew options,

Coeur d’Alene Fondo

CDA Oktoberfest will be one for the books.

If you love bicycling, race your way through

Oktoberfest Beer Cruise

Coeur d’Alene during the CDA Fondo. The

Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables at the

different courses range from five miles to 120

Take a cruise with craft brews on Lake

Kootenai County Farmers Market every

miles and feature views of some of Coeur

Coeur d’Alene. While you’re in the area for

Wednesday and Saturday through October.

d’Alene’s most stunning landscapes. CdA

Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest, come aboard

Bring home farm-fresh produce, flowers,

Fondo takes place on September 17th, 2022.

Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises for

meats, cheeses, honey, jellies and jams, and even new plants.

Bike the Hiawatha Trail

B O N U S T I P : Drop by Taphouse

Unchained after Coeur d’Alene Fondo.

This pedal-powered pub has all of your favorite craft beers, cocktails, and delicious

Check out one of the most scenic bicycling

tavern-style bites. Plus it has a bicycle that

trails in the Inland Northwest until September

blends a margarita while you pedal!

18! This is one of the top activities to transition from summertime to fall in the region. This bicycling expedition will take you through fifteen miles of downhill terrain, through ten railway tunnels, and across seven jaw-dropping trestle bridges.

Washington State Fair Take a drive to Puyallup, WA for the Washington State Fair. Featuring agricultural and horticultural displays from across Washington, drive-in movies, historical exhibits (including a dinosaur display!), an art gallery, live music, food, a rodeo, and more, you can’t go wrong with this family-friend event.

the Oktoberfest Beer Cruise.

No-Li Oktoberfest No-Li Brewery is hosting Oktoberfest on September 17th. Enjoy award-winning microbrews and giant soft pretzels with jalapeno beer cheese while celebrating

Hike Mt. Rainier

Oktoberfest!

We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to

Fremont Oktoberfest

beautiful hikes in the Northwest. Hiking Mt. Rainier is a hike on everyone’s bucket list, featuring family-friendly trails such as the Naches Peak Loop and scenic trails like the Skyline Trail.

Seattlites can enjoy the Oktoberfest fun too at Fremont Oktoberfest. At Seattle’s Largest Beer Festival, you can sip and sample over 80 different craft beers, ciders, seltzers, and microbrews from the Pacific Northwest

Celebrate Oktoberfest In Inland Northwest Style!

and beyond. Fremont Oktoberfest runs

If there’s one thing besides coffee,

Dogtoberfest

technology, and agriculture that the Northwest is known for… It’s probably craft beer. Stouts, pilsners, IPAs - you name it, we have probably 100-locally made beers of that variety. The Northwest has tons of breweries and cities that celebrate

September 16-18th.

While technically part of Fremont Oktoberfest, Dogtoberfest is a celebration with its own beloved reputation. Dogtoberfest is held on the Sunday of Fremont Oktoberfest and is an opportunity to bring man’s best

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CURRENT friend out to enjoy the fun. Plus, City Dog Magazine will host a Cover Dog Photo Contest that you can enter your adorable dog into!

Leavenworth Oktoberfest Leavenworth is known for one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States.

This fun festival takes place three weekends in a row, September 30th- October 1st, October 7th-8th, and October 14th-15th.

October

ACTIVITIES IN THE INLAND NORTHWEST

Sip Wine and Stroll Through Sunflowers in Snohomish

Silverwood becomes Scarywood

Kick Off Hockey Season with the Spokane Chiefs

The Northwest’s largest amusement park

The shouts of “Go, Chiefs, Go” can be heard

At Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm in Snohomish,

becomes the largest haunted amusement

from the freeway to Francis on opening night

WA, you can trek through sunflower fields

park every autumn. From backward-facing

for the Spokane Chiefs hockey team. Hockey

at golden hour with a glass of wine in hand.

rollercoaster rides to bone-chilling haunted

season kicks off on October 1st.

This fun experience is perfect for a girls'

houses, Scarywood Theme Park is the best

trip and includes a hay ride and catered

way to kick off the spooky season.

hors d’oeuvres. Wine your way through the sunflowers on September 17th.

Whiskey Barrel Weekend in Coeur d’Alene

Picking pumpkins at Greenbluff

Check Out the Best of Pacific Northwest Art at Terrain The greatest art night in our region is back

Have your pick of the patch this fall at Greenbluff

after the pandemic. The local art group

and find the perfect pumpkin for carving into a

and small business hero, Terrain, hosts their

Sip and savor the various flavors of whiskey at

jack-o-lantern or decorating your cozy home.

namesake event on the first Friday of October

the annual Whiskey Barrel Weekend, hosted by

There are several u-pick pumpkin patches

- featuring paintings, drawings, sculptures,

The Coeur d’Alene Resort. Indulge in lakeside

in Greenbluff that you can choose from with

pottery, short movies, aerial acrobatics, live

tastings of fine whiskeys and experience

family-friendly activities.

music, and much more.

Roast Pumpkin Seeds At Home

Moscowberfest

Fall Harvest Festival Greenbluff

A beloved Inland Northwest snack is roasted

Idaho, Moscow knows how to throw quite the

pumpkin seeds. After you pick out a pumpkin

celebration. Their Oktoberfest celebration,

and carve it, save the pumpkin seeds. Toss them

aka - Moscowberfest, is no exception. Grab

Beck’s Harvest House in Greenbluff kicks

with a little olive oil, garlic, sea salt, and black

your dirndls and enjoy live music and some

off autumn with the Fall Harvest Festival -

pepper, and you have a delicious healthy snack!

delicious craft beer on October 8th.

corn maze, apple picking, pumpkins, and more.

Spokane Zombie Pub Crawl

Beyond Pink Fashion Show

Valleyfest in Spokane Valley WA

Dress up like zombies and wander from bar

Beyond Pink has raised over 1.5 million

to bar in downtown Spokane in the Spokane

dollars to help women receive a thermogram,

Zombie Pub Crawl. Bloody Marys and haunted

a screening that can detect early signs

Valleyfest is Spokane Valley’s biggest

cocktails and shots await you on October 1st.

of breast cancer. Support them and see

classes hosted by industry insiders. The 2-day whiskey extravaganza runs from September 30th-October 1st.

As one of the coolest university towns in

featuring world-famous pumpkin doughnuts, a

celebration - with a dance competition,

exquisite local fashion on October 15th

parade, car show, food, and much more.

during their annual fashion show.

Check it out September 23rd-25th.

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Golftoberfest

Nile Haunted House

Tee-time just got even better with

Watch the Leaves Change Color in Spokane, WA

Golftoberfest at The Coeur d’Alene Resort.

In Spokane, WA, we are blessed to have

the Nile Haunted House in Mountain Lake

Reserve a tee-time at the award-winning

stunning parks such as Riverfront Park, Manito

Terrace, WA. Featuring three daring escape

Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course to enjoy

Park, and the Finch Arboretum - which has

rooms, a beer garden, and food trucks, this is

a selection of craft beer while you golf.

one of every kind of tree found in Washington

a bit less terrifying than a haunted house but

Golftoberfest is October 22nd.

State. Take a walk through these local parks to

still a ton of fun to do with a group of friends.

Visit Forks Washington

see the leaves changing colors.

For a heart-racing escape room, check out

Haunted Zip Line Tour

Forks, Washington. If you’re looking for a fun

Get a reading from Madame Lola Stardust

road trip to relive this blockbuster movie

Curious about what your future holds? Get a

to see what creepy things are lurking in the

series, drive to Forks, WA, and check out

special reading from Madame Lola Stardust

forest. This spooky tour is available Fridays

the major movie landmarks!

for a spookily accurate description of your

and Saturdays in October in Liberty Lake, WA.

The beloved Twilight saga takes place in

Get Lost in a Corn Maze!

From Greenbluff to farms outside of Seattle, there are so many fun corn mazes to check out in our area.

Colville Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

future. In the meantime, check out her horoscope column in our magazine.

Northwest Haunted Houses and Ghost Tours

While technically not a haunted house, Mica Moon’s Haunted Zipline Tours is your chance

Party in Portland’s Most Haunted Ballroom The Crystal Ballroom has gained quite the reputation as Portland’s most haunted building,

The Pacific Northwest is full of creepy ghost

making it the perfect venue for a 90’s-themed

stories, haunted buildings, and tales that have

Halloween party on October 28th.

no scientific explanation. Find a haunted house

Find your way through a massive 12-acre corn

in your city or go on a ghost tour. Besides the

Moonlit Monster Cruise

maze in Colville, WA, and even bring home a

Campbell House tours we mentioned above,

Set sail on a spooky Halloween cruise on Lake

pumpkin or two!

here are many other haunts to check out in

Coeur d’Alene. This fun cruise hosted by Lake

the Northwest, including:

Coeur d’Alene Cruises features a costume

Bob’s Cornmaze Bob’s Cornmaze in Snohomish Washington is

George Town Morgue

an adventure that trumps most corn mazes. In

The George Town Morgue is one of the

this fun 12-acre corn maze, you can reserve a

scariest places in Washington’s biggest city.

bonfire to enjoy smores with your loved ones

With a gruesome history and a decrepit

after a difficult trek through the corn. Plus

stench, the George Town Morgue is a

enjoy u-pick pumpkins, apple cider, and try

terrifying place to tour in Seattle, especially

their signature roasted corn.

around Halloween.

contest, top-shelf drinks, and a DJ on board.

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GET COZY IN

November

IN THE NORTHWEST

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

Bend Ale Trail Month Bend Oregon is known for its Ale Trail. Grab a

Volunteer with Tom’s Turkey Drive

While this is a national event, we have so many

passport from the Visitor’s Center and explore

Food insecurity and poverty can be

great bookstores in the Northwest - including

up to 30 breweries during November - their

devastating around Thanksgiving. Tom’s

Page 42 Books, Auntie’s Books, Powell’s, and

Bend Ale Trail Month.

Turkey Drive by Second Harvest is a way to

more who will be supporting local writers.

Relax inside with your favorite notebook and begin writing out your dream story.

Make Smore Memories Get cozy with some smores around the campfire surrounded by loved ones - just

Cuddle Up With A Good Book

make sure to be safe and follow all fire

help share the love in our community. Whether you donate a turkey and other Thanksgiving items or you volunteer at Second Harvest, you can do your part in our community.

restrictions. We also recommend 1927

Watch the Apple Cup

Name something more iconic than curling up

Smore Company in downtown Portland for

End fall by watching Washington State

with a book on a rainy day in the Northwest!

delicious, hand-toasted gourmet smores.

University take on the University of Washington

We’ll wait. But if you want to get out and do something bookish with other readers check out the Portland Book Festival, formerly named ‘Wordstock’ on November 5th.

Try a Pumpkin Waffle with Cinnamon Butter at Boots Bakery

in the famous Apple Cup. This is usually the Friday before Thanksgiving.

Light Up Coeur d’Alene

Warm up at one of the cutest bakeries in

The Friday following Thanksgiving is magical in

downtown Spokane. Featuring house-made

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Starting with a parade,

Skiiers, snowboarders, tubers, and those

pumpkin waffles and the most decadent

The Coeur d’Alene Holiday Lighting ceremony

who love playing in the snow can’t miss the

cinnamon butter you’ve ever tasted, Boots

ushers in the holiday season, followed by

Inlander’s Winter Party on November 11 and

Bakery is an autumn tradition.

a beautiful fireworks display and lit holiday

Snowlander

12th. Featuring a snowball toss tournament,

displays around Lake Coeur d’Alene.

Eat for a Good Cause at Epicurean Delights

There you have it - our list of the top 50 fall

Enjoy delicious food and drinks from the

an eye on trendingnorthwest.com for even

Sip at Spokane’s Finest Distillery

best restaurants in the region at the 40th

more fall events, activities, and fun!

In the old Spokesman-Review building in

Inland Northwest and Vitalant, this gala is the

downtown Spokane, you’ll find Dry Fly Distillery

perfect occasion to dress up and support a

and its incredible tasting room. Sample a flight

cause that helps so many people in our region.

live music, a smores roast, ski lift giveaways, and more, this is a fun event to help you transition from autumn to winter.

Annual Epicurean Delight on November 18th.

Benefiting Blood Center Foundation of the

of local whiskey or try any of their cocktails you won’t be disappointed.

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activities in the northwest. Make sure to keep

CATEGORY

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9

MEET

‘I WANT TO BE THE PERSON I WISH I HAD’ BY

Liz Rognes When I walk into Panoramic Dreams Studio,

a recording studio that recently opened at a

Devonte Pearson, Spokane hip-hop artist and

new location in East Central Spokane. While

audio engineer known in the music scene as T.S

Pearson has started taking clients, a grand

the Solution, is there, wearing a black hat with

opening is still forthcoming. The studio can

the word “Dreams” embroidered in cursive,

cater to musicians across genres, but its

gold thread.

main focus is on hip-hop and its sub-genres.

HE WELCOMES ME WITH A HANDSHAKE, THEN IMMEDIATELY TURNS MY ATTENTION TO A DISPLAY OF SHIRTS AND HATS IN THE LOBBY, FROM LOCAL APPAREL LINE ALPHA GRAND. Pearson says he wants to feature local brands in the waiting area of his studio, and he hopes to bring in others. I’ve only been with Pearson for three minutes, and already I know he’s the kind of guy who wants to uplift the people around him.

central, and we want to facilitate collaboration.

We’re already doing it internally,” Pearson says, referring to his work in-studio with D.J. Spicy Ketchup, “and we’re hungry enough to bring in other people and say, ‘What do you have going on? We’d love to sit down and chat about your project and bring in new perspectives.’”

There are a lot of creative people in Spokane, and Pearson sees his role as a kind of bridge that helps people connect in a positive and safe environment. He points to bars as places where people find connection, but he wants to offer an alternative, where people can collaborate without being around alcohol

This spirit is apparent in the way he talks about the studio and his own music.

Mentorship and bridging gaps for others are clear drivers of his purpose. “I want to be the person I wish I had when I was coming up in music,” he says. He wants to help other musicians navigate an industry that can be confusing and separated into pockets.

and the club scene.

We tour the building, which hosts a few other audio engineers, three studios, and a conference room with a large table set up in the middle. Pearson says this room is his favorite because it’s where he gets to hear about other people’s dreams.

“Making music a career is not a one-man

Pearson is a man who is service-minded and

band,” he says. “It takes teams upon teams.”

dream-oriented. He’s always thinking about the

Founded by Pearson as an independent record label in 2015, Panoramic Dreams is now

10

“What I noticed is, there wasn’t anything

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other people in the room. He is encouraging and ready to help. He’s got the table, and he wants you to join him.

T.S

’: THE SOLUTION

MEET

MEET T.S the Solution’s latest single, “Eternity”,

video games while listening to it. He smiles

`But Pearson also sees value in reaching out

released in late 2021 and produced by Trenton

when he talks about being raised by women.

across genres and working with people with

Latrell, articulates this sentiment. Over an

“I got comfortable with a lot of emotions,” he

different musical and life experiences. “I’m not

easy tempo, with melodic background vocals

says. And he says this comes out in his own

afraid to go outside the box. I’ll reach out to

supporting him through warm, wide-space

songwriting—he is able to channel his own

Water Monster or Vanna Oh!, or whatever the

reverb, T.S the Solution says:

emotions through music and storytelling.

vibe is. I love collaborating across genres—

That’s a hallmark of T.S the Solution’s work.

“Got all my people at the table, I’m just here to cater / I’m serving game that you can savor / I

He writes about his own experiences and he builds rhymes that echo the themes he talks

that’s what hip hop started out as anyway, a blend of different genres, and that’s what makes it cool.”

about—dreaming, unity, overcoming, inviting

These days, Pearson tells me, he is listening

people to his table. As he got older, he listened

to introspective music and chillhop like Mick

to rappers like 50 Cent, Ludacris, and T.I., who

Jenkins, J. Cole, and Kendrick Lamar, but he

At his table in the conference room,

were open to talking about their own real-life

also takes this moment to hype up the local

Pearson mentions that his twins, who

stories.

scene. He points to local musicians Chuck

play chef and waiter.”

are homeschooled, sometimes do their homework here. Pearson and his wife, Lydia Pearson, are both entrepreneurs who see parenthood as an invitation to build their dreams, rather than a stumbling block to being self-employed creatives. “My kids will be the reason I do accomplish something, not the reason I don’t,” he says.

As a young musician, Pearson looked up to his cousin, who was a major male role model in

Vibes, John MF Ward, Jinx, ExZac Change and Matisse, and Jango. He’s listening to Spokane.

his life. “He was a very smart dude,” Pearson

As for his own music, Pearson is currently

says, “but he would run the streets.” Under the

working on Purple in Spokane II. He says this

moniker T. Savage, Pearson began to follow his

will be his most musical project. He’ll produce

cousin’s path. “I thought that was the route, but

beats and lyrics, but he’s also going to bring

the more I did it, I realized I’m either gonna be

in more instrumentalists. He’s ready for more

dead or in jail.” He says he turned away from

collaboration.

The kids will be ten this October, and they are

the street lifestyle, but this left him moving in

Pearson’s biggest inspiration. He describes

a different direction than his friends, and for

himself as family-oriented, and the way he talks

a while, he felt alone. Shifting from the identity

about his wife and kids demonstrates this.

he had crafted as T. Savage, he went by the

When I ask him when he moved to Spokane,

name Tey Solo before eventually adopting a

he pauses and thinks. “The kids were…almost

name that encompassed all of his pasts: T.S

two,” he says, measuring time by fatherhood.

the Solution.

He moved to Spokane in 2014, from the

Pearson took it upon himself to become a

extending opportunities to others through

Westside, though he was born in Long Beach,

mentor for others. Representation matters

mentorship.

California. He took a year to settle into the

to him, and he says that kids coming up

city and listen, and in 2016 he released Purple

now deserve to see people like themselves

in Spokane, a four-track E.P. that established

in the industry, onstage and behind the

“I’m all about dreams,” Pearson tells me.

him as a Spokane artist. From its first track,

console. Pearson wants his studio to be a

He’s looking toward possibilities, and even his

“Visions”, to its last, “Comfort Zone”, T. S the

place where musicians like him—people

name is a kind of hopeful extension.

Solution tells his story of moving out of his

who’ve experienced what he has, like

comfort zone and dreaming about the future

moving away from the streets, people who

he wants to create for himself and his family.

are young parents, young Black men—can

As a kid, Pearson remembers riding around in the car with his mom, sisters, and aunts, listening to 90s R & B. The soundtrack of his childhood was the music they were listening to: Mary J. Blige, Avant, Ginuwine, and Immature.

He woke up in the morning to R & B playing in the house, he drove around to it, he played

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Purple in Spokane II will act like another kind of bridge, an album that takes us from T.S the Solution’s first years in Spokane to now. And, really, so much of Pearson’s work is about bridging—creating paths between sub-communities, using his own life experience to build positive community connections, and

feel understood. He says that an important element in bringing a song to life is the level of trust between artists, producers, and

If dreams are another way of finding a way forward, of taking what’s already here and imagining new ways to connect and build, that is clearly what Pearson is all about.

engineers, and relatability can help build that trust.

“T.S IS WHO I AM,” HE SAYS. “THE SOLUTION IS WHO I WANT TO BE.”

GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO ADVERTISE

CATEGORY

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TOP PARTY THE PACIFIC

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MEET

PLANNERS IN C NORTHWEST BY

Christine Burns

THERE IS A FACT THAT WE ALL KNOW TO BE TRUE EVEN IF WE DON’T ALWAYS SAY IT OUT LOUD… AND IT'S THAT SPOKANE KNOWS HOW TO PARTY.

The Spokane events calendar is booked with

party trends and learn a bit about what’s

neighborhood celebrations, street fairs and

in store for the local party scene.

night markets, conventions, company parties, culinary expos, grand openings, launch parties, music festivals, Broadway shows, film premieres, and fashion shows. From family-friendly events to 21+ parties, there are always things to do in Spokane.

With a season ahead of us that’s sure to be full of back-to-school events, parties and gatherings, autumn weddings, charity galas, and holiday celebrations, I decided to narrow down a list of the best northwest party vendors and research some fun party trends to keep an eye out for this season.

And who better to ask than the rockstars who capture a thousand words of fun into a photograph? Electric Photoland is the Inland Northwest’s top photo booth company, offering photo booths that are hard to find elsewhere.

I managed to snag a spot on their calendar to get their thoughts on the Northwest’s best

Keep reading for the inside scoop on Spokane’s best events.

So who is Electric Photoland?

“Spokane

Long live rock and roll, Electric Photoland’s

is a great small

crew can usually be found everywhere from

business scene. The community

the VIP list to your fun friend’s Instagram

here is so supportive and collaborative,”

story. Named after the iconic Jimi Hendrix

gushes Ashley Cone in their bright studio

album, “Electric LadyLand”, Electric Photoland

surrounded by neon signs and exposed

encapsulates the best of the ’60s and

brick. “It’s different from bigger cities where

’70s, like great music, groovy vibes, and film

things tend to be a little more reserved

photography. And then they take it up a notch

and corporate when it comes to business

using cutting-edge technology operated by

relations.”

people who are the life of the party.

Electric Photoland’s calendar is a mix of

Started in October of 2019 by Ashley Cone and Dylan Cone, Electric Photoland

weddings, charity galas, star-studded events,

immediately made a local splash. Since their

birthday parties, fashion shows, concerts, and

opening, Electric Photoland has grown to 17

other interesting events. They collaborate with

photobooths with 15 employees. Ashley and

local artists and even traveled to California to

Dylan Cone say they owe the success of

host a booth at Coachella earlier this year.

their company to a great community, great employees, and high-quality product.

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MEET

THREE PARTY TRENDS FOR THE 2022-2023 SEASON

T H E B O W I E : a glam, celebrity-style black and white photo booth that comes complete with a flattering beauty filter - all at an

Now that much of the COVID-19 pandemic is

affordable rate.

in our rearview mirror, we anticipate a season

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FOMO Will Drive Ticket Sales

After being shut in for so long, people yearn to get out and do more. They want excitement,

of celebrations but it’s clear that parties and

T H E H E N D R I X : As the most popular photo

events will be different from before. Here are

booth, the Hendrix was handcrafted with solid

laughter, and fun.

some of the top party trends in our region

oak in London and comes with an attendant

To find it, many people look for events that

that we’ll see moving forward.

and pro lights.

have been hyped up by friends, family, and

1

people they follow online. Building hype is a

Unique Experiences in the Inland Northwest

T H E Z E P P E L I N : A premium booth with

difficult but common goal for business owners

lots of options, a glam filter, and stop motion

and event planners. For Electric Photoland,

capabilities - creating a shareable video.

building hype for events is a critical part of

As we transition to being able to gather

their business model.

and celebrate, people are going to want

T H E S P I N S : This 360 booth is a platform

experiences they couldn’t find before or

with a rotating arm that creates a fun

“When people share photos and videos of an

during the pandemic.

shareable video.

event they went to on social media, it builds

“Likely, we’ll see more focus high-quality,

T H E T R I P : Using eight DSLR cameras, the

“At Hoopfest we did a 360 booth for one day

branded and designed photobooth expe-

Trip takes images from different angles and

and the next day, people constantly came over

riences,” explains Cone. “There’s no limit to

creates a 3D image and video.

to ask about the 360 booths because they

T O B E A N N O U N C E D : Electric Photoland

to check it out. All day long.”

hype and sparks FOMO,” Ashley Cone explains.

what you can do with photo booths. There will still be a need for the more silly photobooths

saw it on Snapchat and Instagram and wanted

with props and backdrops but the best

is gearing up to launch a new photo booth

parties will elevate that experience and take

experience that looks straight out of

Local businesses can build brand recogni-

it to a higher level - with video activations that

Hollywood… Stay tuned!

tion and lasting memories with party favors

represent the event and brand.”

like photographs.

comes complete with a professionally

2

custom-designed photo template and

With so much of our lives being automated,

high-quality camera. Electric Photoland has

digitized, and posted online, physical copies

people who saw your logo,” remarks Cone.

seventeen booths they rent out for northwest

of images feel even more special than

“Especially if it’s something unique that

events, including:

before. While some events are cutting costs

stands out.”

Each photo booth by Electric Photoland

Physical Memories & Favors to Take Home

“It’s great marketing because if you have your business logo on the photo/video and event attendees share it online, that’s countless

by foregoing party favors, great events T H E M A D O N N A : a digital photo booth

are embracing physical photographs as

To party with Electric Photoland, visit their

delivered and dropped off by Electric

mementos to give to guests… A tangible

website or follow them on social at @

Photoland for easy unlimited use at events.

memory if you will.

electricphotoland.photobooth.

“Spokane is a great small business scene.

The community here is so supportive and collaborative.”

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THE VIP VENDOR LIST There are many incredible event planners and vendors in the Inland Northwest. From party planners that have worked with celebrities like Kim Kardashian to unique experiences like adult-bouncy houses and aerial artists - there are many high-level event companies to help you make memories. Here are some of our favorites - based on reputation, experience, and online ratings:

PA R T Y P L A N N E R S

C AT E R I N G

Jamie Johnson Events Pearl and Tin Red Letter Event Planning Modern Dreamers Co.

Mangia Catering Le Catering CW Hospitality Blissful Boards Co. DRINKS

P A R T Y R E N TA L S & D E C O R

Artifact Rentals Pine and Poppy Event Rentals Pop! Balloon Bar & Party Barn to Table Rentals

The Rolling Station London’s Ultimate Catering The Bubble Bar Spokane Sipin’ Easy

SWEETS E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Electric Photoland Photobooth & Rentals Shenanigans Event Rentals and Bounce House Vertical Elements Entertainment Lola Stardust Tarot Reading

MUSIC

Nu Jack City Band New Beginnings DJ’s Complete Weddings & Events RDJ Collective

Sweet Annie’s Artisan Creamery Sugar and Branch Sweet Frostings Lilac City Bakery

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jennifer Debarros Photography Paper Tiger Photography Jessica Mumm Photography

FLORISTS

Anthesis Co. Flowers by Lily Garland Emily Mcbride Floral Flowers for People Christina Rose Florals

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CATEGORY

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H A L F - P A G E A N D F U L L- P A G E A D S P A C E A V A I L A B L E — C O N T A C T E R I N A T T R E N D I N G N O R T H W E S T

Believe in Yourself CATEGORY

THE BEST OF TODAY BY

20

Esteban Herevia Jr.

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MEET

J O Y I S A P R E T T Y N AT U R A L E X P R E S S I O N F O R M E . Sickening, I know.

If I’m not careful, I can bubble into la la land where everything is rainbows and sunshine. On a good day, joy gives me the motivation to show up fully present and ready for what the day holds. On the bad days, joy helps me transform my depression, despair, anxiety, and abandonment into opportunities for grace with myself and gratitude for my present.

I find that joy helps me unlock areas where anger or fear are present.

It took us six years to come back together.

We reflect on this period in our lives often, trying to make sense of what happened. My parents recognized I was making sense of a reality they believed to have no benefit for me. I believed I was doing quite the opposite. It wasn’t until they began to see who I was becoming and the ways I believed in myself and others, that they began to transform their understanding of my fullness.

This gives me a chance to acknowledge I am feeling something big and

BELIEVING IN ANYTHING IS HARD THESE DAYS. BELIEVING IN OTHERS MAY BE A PIECE OF CAKE. BUT BELIEVING IN YOURSELF? IT CAN BE LONG AND DIFFICULT. I need to make sense of how it got big. When I’m able to identify the

Here’s what I’m getting at: we must believe in ourselves–not for others,

issue, gratitude swoops in and offers the chance for mediation; seeing

but for ourselves. We must believe that the fullness we so greatly desire

the best in me and the best in the situation. I don’t always get it right, but

starts with us first. Plenty of people will not understand and may leave

it gives me the chance to believe I’m doing the best I can with what I’ve

along the way. Their faith or flight is not a part of your assignment. The

got. Beyond ourselves, gratitude and joy can also give us keys to seeing

belief in yourself is.

the best in others and give us the opportunity to see the best in who we are as people.

Why? Because your dreams, desires, and things you want to accomplish are worth it. Your mental health is worth it. Your love life is worth it.

I will fully signal here: this shit is hard. Believing in anything is hard

Your action is worth it.Your feelings and emotions are worth it.Your body

these days. Believing in others may be a piece of cake. But believing in

is worth it. Your motivation and drive are worth it. Your sense of safety

yourself? It can be long and difficult. There might be history and time

and security are worth it. Everything you are is worth it.

and who-knows-what-else to confront. If I know one thing for sure, believing in yourself is worth it.

At the start of this series, I shared how my parents had a difficult time reconciling my coming out. I felt completely abandoned by them after their reaction. I felt like I had to get as far away from them to give myself

My parents are now my greatest champions. They mean more to me than I could have ever imagined and I know it’s reciprocated.

The best for today is believing in yourself so you can make it. I have. I promise you can, too.

the chance to make it. At the time, I had no choice but to believe I had everything I needed with or without a family.

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BEING

J U S T A L I T T L E R E M I N D E R : S E L F LO V E I S N ' T S E L F I S H , I T ' S I M P O R TA N T

XO, T N W

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BEING

Self Care — ­

REFLECTION AND ACTION

BY

Madam Stina Rae

SELF REFLECTION Self care is a topic that has been talked about for quite some time, but the importance of it really hit home hard for so many when the COVID-19 quarantine began.

started by reflecting on what no longer serves

I recently began working with The Sacred

me, which led to realizing exactly where I’ve

Self-Care Oracle deck that we just started

been struggling. I wrote down the changes I

carrying at my store, Atomic Threads Boutique.

would like to see to help solidify the idea of change in my life.

Sometimes it’s crazy to think about how

THERE WAS NO BETTER TIME

much COVID-19 has changed our lives, the

TO START THAN NOW

way we are still experiencing it and accepting that many things will never be the same.

which then inspire creative ways to apply that card’s self-care topic, such as “Energy Work” or “Flow Like Water.” Having this tangible tool

Through a trial-and-error process, and

has helped me in such a big way, enabling me

keeping my various 23moods, needs, energy

to discover how not to fight my natural brain

One thing’s for sure though, COVID hasn’t

outputs and time constraints in mind, I’ve

stopped the majority of us living busy lives,

found that I need to use a variety of self-care

which inevitably leads to burnout, and then

tools to be successful.

sometimes crashing into a pit of depression.

I complete three-card pulls from the deck,

path, but instead embrace the process.

This realization has led me to follow the Seven

That run-ragged lifestyle, paired with COVID’s

Pillars of Self-Care: Physical, Mental, Emotional,

forced isolations, caused people’s anxiety

Social, Environmental, Recreational and Spiritual.

to skyrocket for many reasons – no wonder self-care has become such a big topic, unique to each person.

I reflected upon what kind of work I had put into my own well-being, and it suddenly became clear that I’d been neglecting my needs in many ways.

With a life as a mother, wife and multi-faceted business owner, it creates a schedule that’s ever-changing; controlled chaos at best.

I knew something needed to change – I

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BEING

SELF-CARE RECIPE COLLECTION From this work, I have created a Self-Care Recipe Collection for myself, but which I can lend to others as well. I can add to it at any time and toss out those activities that don’t work for me.

The skill of self-reflection is not something that comes naturally to many and the act of giving self-care can be pushed off as selfish, frivolous or unnecessary, but when used together it can really help make your life run a little smoother and help reduce your stress level so it’s a little more manageable. I've shared some of the items in my Self-Care Recipe Collection. Please be aware of the Energy Levels I’ve assigned to each:

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BEING

ENERGY LEVELS

( L ) = Low

( M ) = Medium

( A ) = Ambitious AF

MENTAL

EMOTIONAL

RECREATIONAL

Therapy and Shadow Work ( L + A )

Tarot Journaling ( L )

Night Drives ( L )

Regulate Sleep Schedule ( L )

Sacred Bath Ritual ( M )

Explore New Hobbies and Cooking ( L + A )

Artistic Expressions ( L + A )

Music Exploration ( L )

Family Game & Adventure Time ( L + A )

Connecting with Nature ( L + A )

Work on Communication Skills ( L + A )

Adult Play Time ( L + A )

SPIRITUAL

ENVIRONMENTAL

PHYSICAL

Syncing with the Moon ( L + A )

Clean House and Workspaces ( L + A )

Pole Skills ( A )

Connecting with Crystals ( L )

Purge and Donate ( A )

Dance / Movement ( M )

Tarot and Oracle Practice ( L + A )

Connecting with Nature ( L + A )

Hydration & Protein Intake ( L )

In both my personal and professional life, I’ve

Whether it’s bubble baths and quiet time,

Looking over the Self-Care Recipe Collection,

been in phases of change and transition.

listening to your favorite song and having a

which item(s) will you choose to participate

Sometimes it feels like I have nothing

personal dance party, or getting that overdue

in? Reach out and let us know!

grounding me and I begin spiraling – But then

health checkup, saying no to taking on more

I remind myself that I have tools to help me; I

than you should or delegating the work load

just have to use them.

as needed, going for a run or trying something

Energy work ( L + M )

PROFESSIONAL Time Blocking ( A ) Asking for Help ( L ) Delegating Tasks Where I Can ( L ) Financial Planning ( M )

Be kind to yourself and find your joy because you deserve it!

new – whatever self-care looks like to you, instead of stewing in your own stress, do something for yourself!

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The Bea

BEING

e Art of The auty Ritual BY

Alexi Sage

We know that the act of caring for anything in life helps it grow, whether that’s watering our plants, loving and raising our babies or investing in our relationships. Why, then, do we tend to neglect taking care of ourselves?

Between keeping up with jobs and families, social media posts and social calendars, sometimes we need to do a little more for

MOVE YOUR BODY

2

ourselves at the end of a stressful

While laying on the couch

day. Self-care comes in many

mindlessly scrolling on tv may

forms, but my favorite form is the

sound like the most appealing

beauty ritual. Here are a few of

option when you’re stressed,

my top tips for showing yourself

being intentional about moving

a little more love.

your body can be one of the

1

RELAX IN A BATH

best forms of self-care. Want to get out of the house? Book a

Lighting a candle, grabbing a glass

yoga class at your local studio.

of chamomile tea and sinking into

Looking to get out some nervous

a hot bath is my favorite way to

energy? Pop in your headphones

unwind. Want to get the ultimate

and take a walk around your

relaxation? Add a CBD bath

neighborhood while listening

bomb to your tub in a calming

to your favorite podcast. I

aromatherapy fragrance, like

promise that you’ll feel better,

Green Roads CBD Bath Bombs

even if it’s just a 15-minute

in Lavender and Unwind.

workout!

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BEING

3

4

DIY FACIAL

I love a good skin care treatment, but I don’t always have time to plan a trip to the spa during my busy workweek. When you’re between esthetician visits, give

4 5

GUA SHA

your skin a little TLC by giving yourself an at-home facial! Start by double-cleansing, exfoliating,

Have you heard about gua sha?

This ancient Chinese technique of performing massage involves

adding a facial massage (see Gua Sha, next) and applying your

using a beauty tool specifically made for reducing inflammation

favorite mask targeted to your skincare concerns. Finish up with a serum, moisturizer and facial oils for the ultimate in hydration. Not sure what skincare products to use? Send me a message and get a complimentary custom skincare

and improving circulation. My top pick is Anfisa Skin’s Moon White Jade Gua Sha.

POP-ON A MANICURE

1

One of my favorite things about

routine recommendation!

6

this year is the return of the pop-on manicure. These aren’t

2

your old school 90s press-ons now faux nails come in a multitude of shapes and prints and last for up to 2 weeks. Give yourself the

While outside beauty is amazing,

perfect manicure by filling nails,

self-care for your beauty on the

pushing back and trimming your

inside is the most important. Set

cuticles and hydrating your hands

aside some time to turn off the

with a hydrating mask treatment,

tv, silence your phone and spend

like Red Aspen’s ManiPrep Mask.

20-30 minutes journaling. How

Apply your favorite press-on

has your week been going? What

nails, like these perfectly nude

is weighing heavy on your mind?

Marciamellow Nail Dashes by Red

You might be surprised at what

Aspen, while you binge your favorite

you end up writing when you turn

Netflix show - and don’t forget to

off all of the distractions and give

give your feet some love, too!

yourself permission to reflect.

5

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WRITE IN A JOURNAL

6

CATEGORY

T O D AY I S A N I C E D AY F O R A N I C E D AY

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MUSE

10 FALL FASHION TRENDS IN THE PNW

BY

Lauren Trivison

It’s officially autumn in the PNW which means fall fashion is here and in full swing!

Now, it can be difficult to decide what to wear each day that feels trendy yet true to your personal style.

Fortunately for you, we gathered the top 10 trends for fall 2022 in the Pacific Northwest and provided examples for how to incorporate them into your daily life. These fall trends are perfect for a fun fall event in the Northwest, or for Oktoberfest events in the Pacific Northwest - but really, you can wear them all season long!

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MUSE

MAXI IS IN!

THE 80S ARE BACK!

Let those hemlines hit the floor! Maxi dresses

Find a blazer with a strong shoulder, as the

and skirts are definitely in for nights out or

80s have officially come back. To make the

fall weddings.

look more modern, opt for personalized

For a casual take on the trend, style them

tailoring or go for something fully oversized.

with combat boots or sneakers. If you want

This looks great with a fitted knit dress for

to elevate the look, opt for a pair of heels that

the cooler months or you can style it with a

barely peep out the bottom. This will help to

bodysuit and baggy dress pants. Either way

elongate you overall and avoid becoming

you wear it, just remember to put your hair

swallowed up by fabric!

up so the shoulders can do all the talking.

SEEK STATEMENT SLEEVES

LUXE KNITWEAR

Sleeves are the statement, whether you

Want to update your knitwear? Try wearing

are layering a fitted bodysuit under a tee

a color like orange, teal or pink. For the

for a coffee run or opting for something

maximalists, wear a monochromatic look

voluminous like a puff sleeve sweater. This

like a pink sweater and pink knit skirt. If you

trend also works well for the office, just look

want a hint of color, try an orange sweater

for big sleeves on your blouses.

with a dark brown trouser or skirt.

Another great take on this trend are

Just be sure to wear one loose item with

adornments on the sleeves of tops or

one fitted piece. That balance will make

jackets. Think ties or small jewels!

you look more put together and of the

STYLISH CORSETS

2020s.

Corsets are not for historical paintings! Bring this trend into the 21st century with boning in or out and experiment with fun colors. Whether you wear your corsets over tops or style them on their own under blazers, they are a great way to add texture to any outfit.

Pro tip: to edge corsets up, try to wear them with leather. Delicate lace will always look great with hard or soft leather which creates the perfect amount of contrast in an outfit.

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MUSE

STRAIGHT TO THE WILD, WILD WEST Pssst… the northwest is IN! Well, the wild west, but we may as well represent. For this trend, think Wrangler jeans with cowboy boots tucked in and crisp button downs.

To take the trend into nighttime, style your boots with silky button down dresses or add a chiffon top to bootcut blue denim and heels. Cowboy hats suggested but not

necessary to complete the look.

GLITZ AND GLAM! Sequins are everywhere, even on your underwear! This trend is great for holiday parties on a blazer or pair of pants. To fully embrace the trend, try a sequin dress or jumpsuit.

For even more sparkle, add a metallic heel.

If you want an easier way to wear the trend, try a sequin accessory. They still add some shine without committing to an entire garment that you may wear once or twice.

FRINGE, FRINGE BABY In a similar vein to the western trend, fringe is also back but in unique colors and textures! Think colorful suede, sparkles, and even sequins.

The easiest way to incorporate fringe is on a jacket, but you can get it on handbags or even dresses. If you want to go full on western, try a fringe button down with flare jeans and cowboy boots. For a more polished take, try a fringe denim jacket with a dress and lug boots.

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MUSE

TANKS OF ALL TYPES Tanks are taking off. Think fitted tanks, sleeveless sweaters or fitted mock neck tanks. The latter is a great layering hack, it will look like you are wearing a turtleneck under your favorite sweatshirts or sweaters but you don’t have the added bulk.

Now, if this isn’t your jam, you can always wear them under your favorite jackets or shackets. They will always be a great way to layer up as temperatures dip.

BORROW GRANDMA’S PEARLS! Pearls are not just for an older crowd!

Whether you wear a pearl headband or a simple pearl hair tie, this is the it-gem of the season. For fall, stick to smaller pearls on your accessories or outfits. Also, for a feminine take on streetwear, consider pearls on things like denim jackets.

If this post overwhelmed you, remember trends are supposed to be a fun way to

If you try any of these trends, be sure

change up your style. The best thing to do

to tag us on Instagram with the hashtag

is wear what you feel comfortable in and let

#trendingnorthwest! We cannot wait to see how

today's popular fashions add to what you

to adapt fall fashion for your particular style.

already wear.

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BITE

TOP

10 BEST

Mac& Cheese IN SPOKANE BY

Shaye Hubbard

Looking for the best mac and cheese

I guess I’m what you’d call a cheese enthusiast,

spots in Spokane? Don’t worry, I

lover, fighter for all cheeses.When I was told to

got you covered! I went all over the Spokane area – from downtown, to

go on the hunt for the best mac and cheese in Spokane, I could barely stay in my seat. I was so delighted! Cheese is my love language, and

the valley, to the north side, tasting

I want to show everyone that love.

my way through some of the best

So first and foremost, what makes a GOOD

places around to try to find that one spectacularly good mac.

mac and cheese? I think that depends on the person. Some people prefer the white, savory, rich cream sauce, mixed with the rich buttery

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flavors of breadcrumbs. While others prefer

and feel of the restaurants. I began

My goal with this search was to find some

the gooey, cheesy, golden mess with a side

my research by looking online at different

local, hidden gem spots that showed me

of Texas Toast.

social media to see what the public was

the most unique and tasty mac and cheese

saying about mac and cheese. Spokane

options available. Honestly, I’m blown away

is known for its foodies and food lovers from

with what I found.

But to me, what truly makes a good mac and cheese dish is the time, effort, and care that goes into the process of making each dish so perfect.

all around, and I knew they would have plenty of opinions and input on this topic. After spending some time reading all the buzz, I

Part of determining which places had the

wrote my own list of places to go check out,

best mac and cheese also went into the vibe

and then began eating my way through town.

From ooey gooey goodness, to sweet and savory, to one-of-a-kind, here’s my top 10 best mac and cheese dishes (listed in ascending order) in Spokane:

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BITE

10

CASCADIA PUBLIC HOUSE

MAC & CHEESE $14, CURRY MAC $13 6314 N ASH ST, SPOKANE, WA 99208

When I went to check out Cascadia, I had no idea they had TWO kinds of mac and cheese to try. The first is their regular mac with a mixture of Fontina, Parmesan, and Gouda cheeses, and topped with herb breadcrumbs. It had an incredible flavor that just overpowers your tastebuds. You can easily taste the garlic and pepper right off the bat.

It’s a very savory cheese sauce that is rich and thick. The breadcrumbs just make the whole thing come together perfectly.

The second kind of mac is called the Curry Mac. I have never had anything quite like this before: its coconut herb sauce was a sweet and tangy flavor with a rich combination of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices.

This was more of a yellow sauce, and less “cheesy” but makes up for it with the creamy coconut sauce. If you’re a big curry fan, you’ll love this!

Both dishes came with warm baguette slices and were well worth it.

9

O’DONNELL’S IRISH PUB

IRISH WHISKEY MAC $16.99 719 N MONROE ST, SPOKANE, WA 99201

I have a secret love for Irish foods, and I hate feeling like I have to wait until March to jump into all the cool, trendy foods to fit the St. Paddy’s Day theme. However, at O’Connell’s you’re free to enjoy all their unique and wonderful dishes any day of the week! This Irish dish is a far drift from traditional mac and cheese, made with an Irish whiskey cream sauce, white Cheddar cheese, corned beef, and roasted red onion. It was a rollercoaster of flavor! The rich flavor of bourbon in the sauce mixes so well with the corned beef brisket and white cheddar cheese.

The red onion gives a touch of sweet in each bite, making you want to dive in for more. This was a really fun twist on your regular everyday mac and cheese.

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BITE

8

THE ONION

EPICUREAN MAC $16.50 302 W RIVERSIDE AVE, SPOKANE, WA 99201

If you’re obsessed with a gooey cheesy mess of a dish here is another one for you on our list. The Onion’s Epicurean Mac is for you. Epicurean means luxury or indulgence – this dish is definitely both! It is mac and cheese fit for a king. The overload of sauce made from Gouda and Cheddar cheeses with savory bread crumbs is the perfect combination.

To top it all off, it’s also served with warm slices of garlic toast.The perfect late-night dinner or snack!

7

THE BEARDED GINGER

BBQ MAC $13.95 8125 E SPRAGUE AVE, SPOKANE VALLEY, WA 99212

Recently, the Bearded Ginger has exploded with popularity and is mostly known for their mozzarella sticks and smoked brisket. But I wanted to expand my horizons and try their BBQ mac and cheese. This mac dish kicks it up a few notches by adding pulled pork and smoked savory brisket over top with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This blew the flavor out of the water and was so rich and filling, I couldn’t even finish it.

Cheese lovers unite!

6

MANITO TAP HOUSE

GREEN CHILI MAC $13.95 3011 S GRAND BLVD, SPOKANE, WA 99203

Another business taking a different approach to the meaning of mac and cheese. Manito Tap House is widely known for their green chili mac, and … holy smokes do I see why now! This unique mac has a crispy top layer of pepperjack and Cotija cheese, a very flavorful green chili sauce that gives a zesty kick, and some chicken and bacon that adds a nice smokey flavor to it all; it has a very Tex-Mex feel.

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BITE

5

THE BLACK DIAMOND

SMOKED MAC $13 9614 E SPRAGUE AVE, SPOKANE VALLEY, WA 99206

The Black Diamond is known for their unique style of foods and themes, especially their smoked dishes. When I heard they serve a smoked mac and cheese dish, I had to give it a try!

They bring the plate out to you covered, and once served they lift the lid to release all the smokiness inside, right at your table! It hit my tastebuds perfectly, the thick creamy sauce matched perfectly with the Cavatappi pasta, and there were hints of onion and garlic hidden inside as well. This dish was the messiest, cheesiest, gooiest of them all. The cheese stretch went beyond my wildest dreams, and the flavor was just all cheese, a cheese heaven if you will.

4

DOWNRIVER GRILL

P O R K B E L LY M A C $ 2 0 . 5 0 3315 W NORTHWEST BLVD, SPOKANE, WA 99205

Downriver Grill does it right by adding a twist to traditional mac and cheese. Layers of pork belly in a maple glaze, a Gouda cream sauce, and topped with Parmesan panko breadcrumbs, this sweet and savory combination is what dreams are made of. The maple glaze adds a hint of a sweet BBQ, yet smokey flavor, while the pork belly is so tender it practically melts in your mouth. The portion size is huge, and while it’s on the pricier side, it is well worth every penny!

3

RÜT

TRUFFLE MAC $15 901 W 14TH AVE, SPOKANE, WA 99204

Just when I was about to give up hope on finding a decent vegan mac, I stumbled across this place, and when I tell you I fell in love, I mean it.

Their Truffle Mac is absolutely incredible! This dish is full of flavor, starting with a creamy coconut sauce with grilled broccolini, spices, and roasted coconut “bacon” bits. The Aleppo flakes give a nice hint of spice to the dish, and you are left wondering how this mac and cheese is this good?!

Don’t walk, run to Rüt and try it for yourself.

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2

ZOLA

ZOLA MAC $13 22 W MAIN AVE, SPOKANE, WA 99201

This stuff is a total game changer. If you’re looking for a melty, delicious, cheese bomb of flavor, you have to go to Zola. The combination of Gouda and Cheddar cheeses mixed with the crunch of the bacon bits and crispy fried shallots adds an incredible mouth feel and makes you want to go back for more. Also, the cheese stretch on this dish will blow you away and that’s what makes it a winner in my book.

1

SARANAC PUBLIC HOUSE

MAC AND CHEESE $16 21 W MAIN AVE, SPOKANE, WA 99201

Saranac’s take on mac and cheese is a delicious and decadent blend of white cheeses and cream tossed together with parmesan and breadcrumbs on top. What makes this mac and cheese stand out from others is the creamy and rich flavors, with breadcrumbs that give a wonderful nutty and buttery flavor to it, similar to a Ritz cracker. It’s a wonderful comforting food that will make you miss home.

Hopefully this top ten list made you hungry, I know I am. Whether you’re a cheese fanatic like me, or just looking to expand your taste buds and try something new, every day is a good day to go try out some of these creative over-the-top mac and cheese dishes!

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CATEGORY

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BITE

Whatcheescooking A VERY VEGETARIAN THANKSGIVING B Y Kim Leur Happy holiday season, friends! Welcome back to

I stuck with this traditional holiday cooking until my

a very special edition of Whatcheescooking, the

baby sister started spending Thanksgiving with us.

culinary klatch where I share my favorite recipes, tips

She used to be a strict vegetarian in those days, so

and products to get creative, seasonal, restau-

I wanted to make sure to dazzle her with my version

rant-style meals to your family’s table.

of vegetarian foods on the holiday table.

This month, I’m sharing my favorite vegetari-

Using fresh and seasonal ingredients, the right

an-friendly Thanksgiving recipes to help inspire you

pantry staples, a whole lot of love and a little creativ-

to confidently approach vegetarian requests for

ity, I was able to make her holiday meal dreams

holiday table guests WITHOUT sacrificing creativity

come true. Vegetarians need love, too!

and, most importantly, flavor.

** Thank your local farmer for their hard work by

Let me preface this article by saying this: I LOVE

sourcing locally from your area…they keep food on

THE HOLIDAYS. I love the weather, the get-togethers,

our tables! **

family time and decorating the house.

Here are a few of our favorite vegetarian recipes

Beyond all that, I also LOVE the food. I tend to be a

to add to your holiday meal plan (whether you’re

fairly traditional holiday cook – roasted or smoked

vegetarian or not!).

turkey, mashed potatoes and giblet gravy, green bean casserole (with bacon, obviously), dressing (not stuffing, also with bacon), sweet potato casserole, etc.

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CATEGORY

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BITE

Whatcheescooking

Roasted Stuffed Butternut Squash RECIPE SERVES 4-6

Butternut Squash “canoes” stuffed with apple, kale, pecans, farro and feta cheese.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1

S T E P 1 : Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Using a spoon, core out

medium to large butternut squash, rinsed, halved lengthwise and deseeded

the neck of the butternut squash. Think about it as if you were carving

2

cloves garlic, smashed to paste

stuffing. Pat dry, and set aside.

1

medium shallot, diced finely

S T E P 2 : Over medium-low heat, sauté onion and garlic until the

1

medium apple, cored and chopped with skin on

onion is transparent. Allow to cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the

¾ cup

toasted pecans or almonds, chopped

1 ½ cups farro, prepared to package instructions 1 ½ cups kale, rinsed and chopped

out a canoe from a log. You want to create a space to place our

farro with the balsamic vinegar and a good glug of olive oil, then stir.

Taste and season as needed for your preference. Add sautéed garlic and onions, and stir.

S T E P 3 : Add in the remainder of your ingredients to the farro mixture, combining well. Fill the butternut squash “canoes” with the prepared stuffing. Press into halves to ensure it won’t come out when you flip them together.

½ cup

feta cheese

⁄3 cup

balsamic vinegar

the bottom, then placing the other on top to roast, so that the halves

extra-virgin olive oil

containing filling press together, like a sandwich.

salt and pepper to taste

Alternatively, you can truss it up together with butcher's twine

HOT TIP: I like to use a loaf pan, placing one half of the squash into 1

butcher’s twine (optional)

like you would a stuffed roast. Either way works just fine!

S T E P 4 : Place into your preheated oven and roast, covered, for 90 minutes or until a toothpick goes into the squash easily cool slightly.

Allow to rest as you would a roast, then remove gently from the loaf pan, slice it up, and enjoy!

You can serve this GORGEOUS vegetarian main with a roasted veggie gravy to enjoy the entire Thanksgiving experience.

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Whatcheescooking

Anything-But-Basic Side Salad WITH CRANBERRY VINAIGRET TE

RECIPE SERVES 4-6

Shaved Brussels, ale, and romaine lettuce are the PERFECT blend of greens for this beautifully simple and delicious fall salad. I like to include some smoky, chopped bacon on the side for my guests who don’t adhere to a vegetarian diet.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1 ½ cups each, rinsed and shredded – brussels sprouts, kale and romaine lettuce

S T E P 1 : Add ALL of your goodies into a large bowl and toss well to

1

large shallot, sliced thinly

¾ cup

pecans, toasted and chopped

¾ cup

dried cranberries (I prefer nonsweetened, but to each their own)

1

anjou pear, diced

¾ cup

gorgonzola or blue cheese of choice

1 cup

croutons of choice

½ cup

feta cheese

½ cup

cranberry vinaigrette (recipe included below)

1

distribute ingredients together S T E P 2 : Add cranberry vinaigrette to salad. Use tongs, salad utensils or your very clean hands to toss well.

If ½ cup of the delicious vinaigrette isn’t enough dressing for your taste, add more and toss again. Easy Peasy!

CRANBERRY VINAIGRETTE S T E P 1 : Are you guys ready for this? You put all of your prepared dressing ingredients into your blender and blend it up! The blender emulsifies and breaks down everything into a GORGEOUS, velvety vinaigrette. Make sure to taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.

CRANBERRY VINAIGRETTE ¾ cup

cranberry sauce of choice

1

orange, juiced

1

small shallot, peeled and ends removed

1

heaping tablespoon of stone-ground mustard

2 Tbs

honey

Whether you make your own

½ cup

(good quality) olive oil

cranberry sauce or you buy

⁄3 cup

red wine vinegar

1

salt and pepper to taste

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it from your local store, this vinaigrette is a game changer and so easy to make!

CATEGORY

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CATEGORY

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BITE

Whatcheescooking

Green Bean Casserole VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN VERSIONS

RECIPE SERVES 4-6

Ingredients:

Instructions:

green beans, rinsed, ends trimmed, and cut into 1½ inch sections

4 quarts of water to boil. Quickly blanch the green beans in boiling

1

large shallot, diced

water for 3-4 minutes. Immediately drain and chill them in a bowl of

3

cloves garlic, minced finely

8 oz

mushrooms of choice (I used cremini), cleaned and diced

2 Tbs

fresh thyme

3 lbs

1 ½ cups crispy, fried onions (save an additional 1 cup for the topping) 3 Tbs

butter OR avocado oil

3 Tbs

flour salt and pepper to taste

S T E P 1 : Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Salt generously and bring

cold or iced water; Once cooled, drain and set aside.

S T E P 2 : Over medium heat, add a small amount of oil of choice to the pan. Sauté shallot and garlic until shallot becomes transparent.

Add mushrooms and thyme. Continue to sauté until mushrooms are slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

S T E P 3 : Add 3 tablespoons of your butter or oil to the mushroom mixture; followed by the flour. Stir to evenly distribute flour and remove any clumps.You’re looking for everything to be evenly coated in your pan.

S T E P 4 : Continue stirring to cook down the rawness of the flour.

This should take about 5-10 minutes. Once flour is cooked, whisk in the cream or oat milk, and continue stirring over medium heat until mixture comes to a hard simmer and begins to thicken.

S T E P 5 : In a large bowl, mix together mushroom gravy, blanched and cooled green beans and crispy fried onions. Once mixed thoroughly, TASTE YOUR FOOD, and adjust seasoning as needed. Spoon into the baking vessel of choice. Cook in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

S T E P 6 : After 40 minutes in the oven, remove casserole from oven.

Top with 1 cup of extra crispy fried onions you had set aside. Put back into the oven for 10 minutes, or until the topping is slightly browned.

Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Beautiful and savory vegetarian friendly green bean casserole. See the recipe above for easy swaps to keep it vegan.

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5

SIP

Cocktail Lounges with Innovative Drinks IN DOWNTOWN SPOKANE BY

Carlie Lee

EMMA RUE’S

1

INLAND PACIFIC KITCHEN

2

Rejoice! Spokane now has late night cocktails

Perfect for date night, Inland Pacific Kitchen

AND desserts all in one place. Emma Rue’s

is not only cooking up delicious food but

is a spot that opens early and closes late.

also shaking up fancy (and pretty!) cocktails.

You can come here to enjoy a mimosa and/or

Whether you prefer something more spirit

coffee starting at 8am every day of the week.

forward or fruit forward (pictured are one of

Tuesday through Saturday they’re open until

each), IPK has great options! How cute is the

midnight. Happy hour runs from 3-6pm daily

little clothespin holding the sage leaf? It’s all

and you’ll find deals like a $7 Cosmo or, my

in the details here,

personal favorite, their Rum Old Fashioned.

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For this classic cocktail, rum is used instead

Since Inland Pacific Kitchen is located within

of bourbon and provides a lighter spirit profile

the Washington Cracker Building, there’s

that is delightful to sip. The owners have truly

a free, small parking lot and also plenty of

put a ton of thought into the ambience of

metered parking along the side streets.

their space; it’s chic, inviting, and cozy all

Come check them out for yourself,

at the same time. Truly, their cushy swivel

Wednesday through Saturday from 4pm to

chairs (conveniently located alongside their

9pm and on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

floor-to-ceiling windows-- perfect for people-

Happy hour runs from 4pm until 5:30pm and

watching), are pieces I’d want to

they add new things to the HH menu weekly

put into my own home.

so there’s always something new to try!

SIP

SAPPHIRE LOUNGE

3

Located below the Ruby Hotel, Sapphire Lounge is one of several locations managed

by Ruby Hospitality. The staff here are like one

HOGWASH

4

5

big family and it’s evident the bartenders

Whether you’re looking to cozy up in a

love what they do. We tried several cocktails

booth or spread across a table with friends,

during our visit; each with its own unique flavor

Hogwash is your spot. Located on the

profile. Pictured are the 1st Ave Old Fashioned,

basement level of the Washington Cracker

Huckleberry Mai Tai Moment, and The

Building, parking is typically a breeze via

Greatest Trend. Dare I say The Greatest Trend

metered street parking along W. Pacific Ave,

Looking for an intimate night cap? With a

is the greatest drink in all of downtown right

South Bernard St, or in the shared parking

speakeasy vibe, Cease and Desist Book Club

now? Made with mezcal, lime, Amaro, agave,

lot. One of the many things I enjoy about

provides booths where you can get nice and

and egg white, the drink is slightly smoky from

ordering a drink here is, even if nothing on

cozy in their ambient, dimly lit space (...if you

the mezcal, equal parts sweet and tart, and

their cocktail list quite strikes your fancy, just

can find it*). The bartenders are well-educated

absolutely delicious overall.

let them know what you like; the bartenders

on spirits and the craft of mixing cocktails.

are happy to whip something up. Speaking of

Their drink menu reads like a beautiful book.

If you’re here for a girls’ night or just unwinding

the cocktail list, it’s quite a fun read. You’ll find

If bourbon is your liquor of choice, you’re in

solo after a long day of work, no need to worry

names like Hagrid’s Hippogrif, For All Intents

for a treat. There are always several house-

about walking back to your car in the dark.

and Porpoises, and Beets, Bears; Battlestar

infused bourbons to choose from-- flavors

Employees at Sapphire Lounge genuinely care

Galactica. My very favorite drink at Hogwash

like fig, banana, and chile. I love ordering

about your safety and are happy to escort

is a classic Penicillin-- blended scotch, honey,

an infused bourbon neat to ensure you’re

patrons to their car. You can use metered

lemon, ginger, and Islay single malt. Try it!

really tasting the unique flavor. They’re also

parking along the street or if you’re dining at

CEASE AND DESIST BOOK CLUB

thoroughly enjoyed as part of a classic Old

their sister restaurant, The Steam Plant, before

Do not miss their elevated food options

Fashioned (pictured). Cease and Desist is

or after, feel free to use their parking lot and

whether you’re just feeling snacky or want

open Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm

not only will your parking fee be taken off your

a full on meal, and also keep an eye out

until 2am as well as Sundays and Mondays

restaurant bill, but you will also get a deal on

for their fresh sheets! They share a kitchen

from 6pm until 12am. There are several paid

your drink at Sapphire Lounge! Hours are from

space with Inland Pacific Kitchen, so you

parking lots and also metered street parking

4pm to 10pm Tuesday through Thursday and

know it’s going to be good. Stop by anytime

available within the vicinity. Ask for John!

until 12am on Fridays and Saturdays. Happy

from 4pm to 10:30pm Monday through

hour runs Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm

Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

*Cease and Desist is only accessible if you

to 6pm and again on weekends from 10pm until

Enjoy daily happy hour (with the exception

know which bookcase leads to their door!

close. Double happy hour for the win!

of Sundays) from 4-5:30pm.

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SHOP

The Best Chocolate Made in the PNW BY

Chrstine Burns

The Northwest takes flavor to a whole new level; and that’s flavor with a capital ‘C.’ I know what you’re thinking. Flavor doesn’t start with a ‘C’. But you see, the Northwest is known for so many amazing treats that start with the letter ‘C’: C O F F E E is a big one, especially with the original Starbucks situated in Seattle.

C A N N A B I S is another one, as Washington was one of the first states to legalize recreational weed.

C R A F T B E E R is a fun commodity, as cities like Portland and Spokane seem to have more breweries per square mile than even coffee shops.

Of course, we would be remiss if we didn’t add chocolate to this list. The best chocolate in the Pacific Northwest is a combination of PNW vibes: bold, unique, and adventurous. If you’re looking for some excellent holiday gifts or just want to treat yourself, shop local with these delicious Pacific Northwest-made chocolates.

Who wouldn’t want to get these chocolates as a gift?!

I was recently chatting with a friend who lives out

be willing to send some good chocolates in their

of state, who noted that the quality of chocolate

direction and I am happy to oblige.

on the east coast where he recently moved doesn’t taste the same as the artisan-level chocolate we know and love in the Northwest.

So, I, Christine with a capital ‘C,’ have endeavored to find the best chocolates in the Northwest. I ordered and sampled chocolate from chocolat-

Why is this? Perhaps it’s because of our

iers around the region, specifically focusing on

region’s strong agriculture and access to

small family businesses.

locally-made goods.

While this isn’t an actual competition, I am

Maybe it’s because our region specializes

definitely and unofficially assigning awards to

in making small batches of things, and then

each of these incredible businesses.

labeling them “craft.”

Either way, my friend was curious when I would

From Spokane to Portland, here are the best chocolates in the Northwest:

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SHOP BEST CHO COL ATE IN

SPOKANE

H A L L E T T S C H O C O L AT E S -

delightful treats have enough nuts and fruit

BEST TURTLES & NUTS

stuffed in them to trick my brain into thinking

Spokane had two chocolatiers that stood out

Halletts’ collection of chocolates are, in

above the rest.

a word, smooth. But, if I had to choose

I have fond childhood memories of going Christmas shopping with my dad and stopping at these places to pick out chocolates for my mom's and sisters’

another word, it would be comforting, as their chocolate tastes like a hug after a long day.

Hallett’s turtles have fresh, Southern pecans with silky-smooth chocolate coating them.

I’m eating something healthy … but the fine chocolate is so decadent I never feel bad about indulging!

BEST CHO COL ATE IN

SEATTLE

Driving from Spokane to Seattle means

stockings. It had been years since I had tasted

Just like the Hallett family, I, too, am an

traversing the sometimes precarious

chocolates from either of these shops and

entrepreneur, so upon learning the backstory

Snoqualmie Pass.

it made them so much sweeter when testing

of how Halletts Chocolates came to be, my

their chocolate for these articles.

heart is just happy!

I am happy to say that these are the best

Joel and Tom Hallett had a family farm with

chocolate shops in Spokane, Wash.

seasonal fruits such as raspberries and

Yet, it doesn’t seem as difficult when some of the best chocolate in the northwest, if not the

strawberries in Otis Orchards. Out of a need

S P O K A N DY B E S T C H O C O L AT E M I N T S A N D B EST T R U F F L E VA R I E T Y When it comes to the fusion of flavors with chocolate, mint is definitely one of the most popular ideations, and, in my opinion, is also one of the more delicate flavor combinations.

At one point in my life, I set out to master mint chocolate fudge and was continually

to support their farm year-round, they took on making chocolates and candies.

west coast, is waiting just on the other side.

S E AT T L E C H O C O L AT E BEST BRANDING, BEST WOMANOWNED BUSINESS, MOST D E D I C AT E D T O E T H I C A L P R A C T I C E S

While they eventually sold the business, they carefully taught the new owners the craft of

Don’t get me wrong, Seattle Chocolate also

chocolate making and passed their delicious

deserves awards for flavors, variety and craft.

recipes on.

BEST CHO COL ATE IN

LEAVENWORTH

Their layered chocolate truffle bars are especially incredible. They have a hard outside, a center that melts in your mouth, and depending on the truffle bar, it may

disappointed at my inability to add the

Is it just me, or does everything taste better

have a variety of nuts, fruits, toffee and other

optimal amount of mint extract. Too little and

in Leavenworth? The beautiful Bavarian village

additions. Don’t even get me started on moon

you couldn’t taste it; Too much and it tastes

has incredible pretzels, sausage, beer, cheese

rocks - seriously, try it!

like ineffective toothpaste.

– It’s all delicious.

So believe me when I tell you: I shed a small

So, it should be no surprise, then that we

Seattle Chocolate Company is their fierce

tear when I placed a Spokandy chocolate

found a chocolatier who also made the

dedication to ethically sourcing all of their

mint on my tongue. I really did.

Leavenworth delightful list!

ingredients – They endeavor to prioritize

Perhaps the emotion was joy, or maybe it

S C H O C O L AT -

was envy that someone had figured it out.

B E S T C O M B I N AT I O N O F F R U I T S

But I believe it was pure satisfaction that

AND NUTS

Spokandy had won the battle of achieving the perfect balance of mint and chocolate.

Blink and you’ll walk right past this small but

Congratulations!

mighty chocolate shop.

Spokandy also has phenomenal truffles.

I had been to Leavenworth nearly a

With decadent flavors and amazing variety,

dozen times before I saw it. Now, trips to

Spokandy is at the top of my list for when I

Leavenworth feel unfinished without a quick

buy truffles as a gift. Some of their exciting

stop by Schocolat.

truffle flavors include birthday cake, carrot

Schocolat’s claim to fame (in my opinion

cake, chai, huckleberry lemon, eggnog and so

at least) is their fruit and nut discs. These

many others.

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One of the most endearing parts of the

ethically-sourced ingredients, even if, at times, it might cost more financially.

Seattle Chocolate’s website says: “We’re passionate about cacao and the people who grow it - and bet you are, too.

We work hard to ensure our ethical sourcing practices address issues like gender equality, child labor, sustainable farming methods, higher profits and more; sourcing our cacao beans from two cacao regions of the world, Peru and West Africa.”

Owner and CEO, Jean Thompson, even did a

SHOP

Tedx Talk about the importance of ethically

and finest chocolatiers, we expected nothing

and over to get it to that point. The flavor is

sourcing ingredients. This woman-owned

less than delicious perfection.

decadent and rich, but not too much.

C R E O C H O C O L AT E -

Lovely, delectable, and rave-worthy, all in an

BEST MOUTH-FEEL, BEST PROCESS

inch-by-inch square. Mmmm.

company is shattering the glass ceiling in many ways, but especially tastefully.

Now, as an advertising expert, I often feel bored with advertisements and marketing strategies. However, I was immediately excited

by Seattle Chocolate’s brand in a way that I can best express with a “You go girl!”

Having their packaging designed by Pacific Northwest artists, and the names of chocolate inspired by local landmarks, definitely won them extra points in this category as well.

PRO-TIP: Have a stop at Sea-Tac, Seattle’s airport? You can find Seattle Chocolate

A N D B EST F L AVO R We ordered a box of Creo Chocolate to be delivered straight to the “Trending Northwest” magazine office to taste-test.

Seeing the beautiful brown box arrive with a beautiful foil logo made this chocolate a contender for best branding as well … but we can’t give them every unofficial award, right?

When researching chocolate shops, I was immediately impressed by how transparent Creo Chocolate was with its process.

TRY THE BEST C H O C O L AT E S I N T H E NORTHWEST THIS H O L I D AY S E A S O N .

After such a difficult few years with the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m reaching for all

there, too! You can also try some of their

They have a brilliant way of educating

things calming, comfortable & crave-

caramels (for free!) and get some delicious

customers on the cacao-harvesting

worthy – More of those delicious C’s.

chocolate gifts for friends/family… or for

and chocolate-making process in a way

yourself! We won’t tell!

that emboldens customers to raise their

BEST CHO COL ATE IN

PORTLAND

Now, I consider myself a foodie. Every trip to

standards of what makes good chocolate.

When it comes to food and drinks, texture is so important; We use the term “mouthfeel” to describe the texture of a food or beverage.

Portland is an adventure for the taste buds,

Luckily for me, the Northwest is full of the best chocolate made by small businesses.

This

holiday

season, give

your

l o v e d o n e s the gift of chocolate, made by those whose love for their

as each restaurant seems to strive for fresh

Creo Chocolate’s mouthfeel is smoother

craft is the only thing sweeter than the

ingredients, quality practices and primo

than most chocolate we’ve tasted. After

treat itself.

flavors. So when it came to their chocolate

researching their extremely detailed process, I truly believe they’ve experimented over

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SHOP

Thrifting Your Way To

BY

Hailey Keller

Vintage is a term that is trending H-O-T right now. But, unlike that trendy pop-up boutique, Global Neighborhood Thrift (GNT) isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The GNT employees are staking their claim on all-things vintage and hustlin’ to create a space you’ll want to stop at first when looking for anything fabulous to wear or outfit your home with.

Established in 2011, Global Neighborhood Thrift’s

Kimball-Bryant said these story sales “Were the

mission is to “Offer pathways to employment for our

joy of pandemic for me.”

neighbors who came to Spokane as refugees,” their website states.

According to Kimball-Bryant, from the story sales, the GNT team realized what people were scooping

So, how does vintage play a role in this? Well, in May

up, particularly resellers: Vintage. And so, the thrift’s

2020, GNT, like every other business in Spokane,

store shifted their focus to how they could make

was forced to close its doors due to the COVID-19

that work for them and their mission.

pandemic. Brent Hendricks, the founder and executive director of Global Neighborhood Thrift wanted to keep at least some of his employees employed.

To begin any new endeavor, especially one on a scale the GNT’s vision was for, they needed someone who knew their stuff – enter KimballBryant’s foray into vintage. She was knowledgeable

“Our whole mission is employment, so he did it!”

about vintage and fashion in general, but quickly

Julie Kimball-Bryant, GNT Store Manager, exclaimed.

realized she couldn’t do it alone, so a second

To keep paychecks rolling out, Hendricks initiated GNT’s Instagram Story Sales. These would include

savant was hired: Indigo Knox.

In July 2021, GNT’s in-store vintage area opened,

daily or weekly multi-story posts highlighting articles

displacing the furniture space that once occupied

of clothing, home goods or furniture for sale.

the area – The pandemic was the start of the thrift’s journey into vintage and since then, Global

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SHOP

Neighborhood Thrift has been a force to reckon with in the area’s vintage options.

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“But we’re like, ‘No, no, no,” Knox said, “It’s super awesome!”

For a non-profit whose focus is offering pathways

“For a lot of our staff at Global Neighborhood

to employment for refugees in Spokane, vintage is

Thrift,” Kimball-Bryant said, “this is how they are

an entirely new concept to the majority of those

learning about America and the history of nuance

employees at GNT.

in America.”

Kimball-Bryant said vintage is “not a thing in other

For example, during this interview, a cardboard

countries,” as many of them have a stigma about

cutout of Austin Powers dressed in his iconic,

second-hand items and hand-outs of any kind.

purple crushed-velvet suit, sat behind this writer’s

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SHOP

chair. Kimball-Bryant said when Home Goods team

GNT will be hosting a “Say Yes to the Dress” event

member, Bietlehem, came across it while sorting,

with a huge variety of vintage wedding dresses

she “brought this it up to me and said, ‘What is this?!’”

(Mark yo’ calendars!).

As all their thrift and vintage items are donated, GNT

Just how do the employees at Global Neighborhood

never quite knows what to expect.

Thrift determine what is vintage-fab and what is just

Lately, however, the team has been “hoarding wedding dresses,” Kimball-Bryant said. In February, right before Spokane’s gorgeous springtime arrives and brides begin planning their fanciful weddings,

drab? Thankfully, Kimball-Bryant said, GNT has a “really knowledgeable, nerdy and passionate grading team. These are the kind of people that love digging and they really know their stuff; we all come in with our niche.”

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SHOP

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GNT has a “really knowledgeable, nerdy and passionate grading team. These are the kind of people that love digging and they really know their stuff; we all come in with our niche.”

In preparation to display and sell that many books, Executive Director Hendrick’s father, Marlin (who is the master of master craftsmen, Kimball-Bryant boasted), handcrafted 75 bookshelves for

Knox’s specialty is denim, “I love denim,” Knox

the cause. Marlin thankfully had help for this massive

said, “That’s my thing. Give me all the denim

undertaking from GNT employees Malang, Noor and

from the 60s, please!”

Mohammad.

Chris Alvarez-Larsen’s niche are vintage tees, which,

The success of Global Neighborhood Thrift’s current

according to, well, everyone, are extremely popular

vintage section has been palpable, and with the

right now.

In fact, vintage tees are so insanely popular, they will be getting their very own area in GNT’s newest expansion space. Kimball-Bryant estimated that this dedicated tee-wing could hold up to 1,350

massive amount of new square-footage that’s about to be filled with even more amazingness, Knox and the entire vintage crew at GNT are taking their role as, what Kimball-Bryant has coined “Costuming Humanity” very seriously.

vintage tees (upon hearing that number, this writer’s jaw hit the floor, y’all!).

In May 2022, Global Neighborhood Thrift took over the other half of the building they currently occupy.

With the expansion, they’ll have around 45,000 square feet of retail, storage and working space (writer currently squealing with delight)! That grand-opening will occur mid-to-late September (Follow @globalneighborhood on social media for all the updates).

Right now, the vintage clothing and home goods section has a four-week turnover to make sure that customers can come again and again and easily find new treasures. When the new space opens, that will transition to a six-week rotation schedule.

To those bibliophiles, you may be the most excited about the expansion’s new book department, which, Kimball-Bryant estimates, may house up to 25,000 books. YES, you read that right: 25,000.

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WANDER

48 Tacoma Hours In

BY

Christine Burns

As Washington's third largest city, Tacoma offers a fun-filled adventure, no matter your interests. Cars, blown-glass art, and a special nature experience are just a few of the attractions awaiting you during 48 hours in Tacoma.

Tacoma is a beautiful city that offers a unique glimpse into Washington’s history and culture.

Tacoma was originally called “The City of Destiny'' due to its ties to railroads back

Where to Visit LeMay-America’s Car Museum

in the day. It’s home to major Washington

The LeMay-America’s Car Museum celebrates

cultural landmarks, such as the American

a century of automobile history. The museum

Car Museum, the Museum of Glass, and the

– with its grill-designed front entrance –

Tacoma Dome.

features more than 300 cars displayed by

Ready to plan the best 48 hours in Tacoma?

Are you looking for a great Tacoma visitor’s guide? Keep reading to see our favorite itinerary.

era or theme. Most of the museum's vehicles are part of a collection exceeding 3,000 that once belonged to Harold LeMay, who, at the time of his death in 2000, had amassed the largest private collection of cars in the world!

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WANDER Other vehicles on display are on loan from other collections. From Model-Ts to

diverse landscape, from mountains to prairies.

you back to the early 1800s, when the Hudson Bay Company established the post for trade

solar-powered cars, the LeMay museum

Point Defiance Park

provides a fun experience over four stories.

It's easy to spend a full day at Point Defiance

fur trappers. With actors portraying residents

Park and still feel like you could use more time.

of the fort, you'll see them doing work typical

With attractions including a large rose and

of the era, such as blacksmithing. Tour the

Watch artists create blown-glass art as part

flower garden, beach, zoo, historic trading

buildings inside the fort for a realistic look at

of your visit to the Museum of Glass. As the

post, and a five-mile drive, Point Defiance Park

life during that time.

hometown to internationally-recognized

is a beautiful area in Tacoma.

Museum of Glass

artist Dale Chihuly, Tacoma's glass museum greets visitors with a reflection pool, whose white glass art installation illuminates at night, creating an amazing view of the downtown attraction. Inside, tour the facility, with special exhibits highlighting the talents of other glassblowing artists. Afterward, check out other blown-glass art on the pedestrian bridge next to the museum.

Start your visit with a walk through the park's gardens. With nine gardens, you'll enjoy the beauty and fragrance of roses, dahlias, fuchsias, and iris flowers, as well as rhododendrons. The herb and native Pacific Northwest gardens offer additional looks at botanicals.

The Japanese Garden features lanterns, as well as a small tea house, footbridge, and pine trees. It's a picturesque area for relaxing and

among Indigenous tribes, as well as European

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park With almost 725 acres, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park takes you on an adventure, offering up-close looks at animals native to the Pacific Northwest, including bobcats, black bears, moose, and even badgers. A paved walking path leads visitors along a route with great views of animals and forests. For an even more personal experience, reserve a spot on a wildlife tour that takes your personal vehicle

Dune Peninsula Park

creating a little zen.

An 11-acre park, named in honor of “Dune”

Owen Beach is an excellent spot for

roaming area, where you'll see elk and bison

author and Tacoma native Frank Herbert,

sunbathing, walking along the rocky shore, and

herds, as well as mountain goats. Or, for true

Dune Peninsula Park offers a majestic view

people-watching. Children, and some adults,

close-ups of the animals, hop aboard a Jeep

of Mt. Rainier as part of its trail loop. Built at

enjoy wading into the water for a short swim

and take an off-road ride on a 90-minute

the former site of a lead and copper smelter

or a little splashing about. Bring a kayak and

Keeper's Adventure Tour.

plant, with prairie grass and flowers growing

enjoy some water sports.

along the trail, the park is considered a major accomplishment for the area's environment.

With mounds for children to play and tables for picnics, Dune Peninsula is a great spot for family time. As you walk along the trail, look for harbor seals lounging and frolicking on the rocks in Puget Sound. An art installation features sandworms, as depicted in the novel.

Other artwork highlights the area's industrial past.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is home to a group of red wolves, once close to extinct. The zoo has worked over the past few decades to repopulate the wolves, so you'll see a few of them, including young ones, if you're lucky, as well as placards explaining the wolves' history and what is being done to save them. The zoo also has a fun otter exhibit, as well as others showcasing elephants, penguins, and a number of additional animals.

Washington State History Museum

The zoo's aquarium includes a look at marine life native to the Pacific Northwest and the Pacific Ocean.

Take a stroll through the state's history

along a paved road inside the park's free

Tacoma Art Museum Focusing on Pacific Northwest art, the Tacoma Art Museum’s collection includes more than 5,300 pieces, ranging from Dale Chihuly and Japanese woodblock prints to studio art jewelry. The museum is also home to the Haub Family collection of western art, consisting of more than 300 pieces covering two centuries.

Opened in 1935, the TAM moved to its current location in 2003. The art museum is part of the city’s Museum District, which also includes the Museum of Glass, State History Museum, Children’s Museum, and Historic Union Station.

with interactive exhibits at the Washington

Five Mile Drive includes a drive along the

Other Attractions

State History Museum. From its earliest

park's woods, including pull-offs with impres-

Tacoma is home to great parks, such as

days, including Native American life through

sive views of the Puget Sound. Hiking trails are

Wright Park, which began as a 20-acre

European arrival and settlement, the

abundant in the woods, in case you feel like

donation to help grow trees in the city’s early

museum's displays include dioramas and

hoofing it for a while. You'll also see raccoons

days. The park is now around 30 acres and

special exhibits. The Washington State History

asking for food on the side of the road.

has hundreds of trees along with statues,

Museum also features a look at the state's

Fort Nisqually Living History Museum takes

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and a pond among its attractions. The W.W.

WANDER Seymour Conservatory includes a greenhouse

With many of the traditional ramen dishes

that’s home to flower and plant exhibits at

and twists on the classics, Moshi Moshi

Wright Park.

is one of the best ramen bars in Tacoma.

acom

The Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park along the waterfront invites visitors into the interactive exhibit recognizing the Chinese

We recommend stopping by for lunch and choosing your food and cocktails from their massive menu.

people who were forced out of the city in

Their Impossi-Bau is a great option for vegans.

1885 during a period of anti-Chinese hate. The

We also recommend their Coconut Green

day after forcing people out, Chinese-owned

Curry and Toasted Miso Scallion. Moshi Moshi

businesses were destroyed. The park was

Tacoma also offers gluten-free ramen noodles

established in the early 1990s during a period

on request.

of reconciliation, and takes visitors along a historical path of the period’s events, ending with reconciliation.

Finding Moshi Moshi can be a little difficult because there’s no sign out front. Find them at 110 Suite B N Tacoma Ave.

Places to Eat Around Tacoma

Dinner:

Tacoma, Washington is full of delicious

The Lobster Shop in Tacoma is an

restaurants and bars. Some of the best

award-winning restaurant. The patio deck

restaurants are in downtown Tacoma and near

has views stretching across the horizon of

the waterfront. Here’s our picks for breakfast,

Commencement Bay. This premier location

lunch and dinner in Tacoma:

means abundant fresh lobsters for customers.

Breakfast:

Their menu includes more than lobster - but

Waffle Stop

You’ll find something for everyone in the family at Waffle Stop. This cute breakfast restaurant

Lobster Shop Tacoma

you definitely don’t want to miss trying their decadent lobster dishes. Some of the other delicious items on their menu include Sweet Chili Prawns and Seared Ahi.

emanates classic diner vibes and serves up

With great views and incredible food, Lobster

all your favorite breakfast items. Their Bacon

Shop is one of the best Tacoma waterfront

Cookie Butter Waffle is the perfect mix of

restaurants. Try them out at 4015 Ruston Way.

sweet and savory, with a Pearl Sugar Waffle, cookie butter, whipped cream, and crumbles of maple-glazed bacon.

And if you like mimosas, definitely check out their Elderflower Mimosa.

Wine & Libations: Stink & El Tufo

Fun fact: El Tufo means “stink” in Spanish.

Stink & El Tufo are a cheese shop and wine

Find the Waffle Shop at 2710 N. Proctor St

restaurant in Tacoma. They lovingly call Stink

Tacoma, WA.

the “aroma of Tacoma” and offer family-friend-

Lunch:

Moshi Moshi Tacoma Moshi Moshi is one of the coolest ramen restaurants we’ve seen in a long time.

ly dining with small, flavorful portions. The extensive wine list at El Tufo feels like you’re exploring Europe.

Smell the aroma at 628 St. Helens Ave.

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WANDER Tacoma has several great hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest houses to stay in. Here are our favorite hotels in Tacoma, including budget-friendly places, the best chain hotels, and luxury hotels in Tacoma.

Luxury Hotel:

The Silver Cloud Hotel at Point Ruston Waterfront There aren’t many luxury hotels in Tacoma, but

On A Budget:

this one is one of our favorites! The Silver Cloud

La Quinta Inn & Suites by

that wants to experience the best of Tacoma while

Wyndham Tacoma-Washington

enjoying pristine views of the waterfront. The Silver

Inn Tacoma is the ideal home base for the traveler

Looking for a budget-friendly place to rest your head, take a shower, and get back out into the

Cloud Hotel is close to staple Tacoma attractions, including the Museum of Glass.

beautiful evergreens? There are many cheap hotels

At The Silver Cloud Hotel, you’ll find 4-star

in Tacoma where you can get some rest for the

accommodations with modern amenities, beautiful

night. The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham is

views, and premier rooms. Plus it’s one of the most

a great option for the budget-conscious traveler

gorgeous hotels on the Tacoma waterfront.

who wants clean and modern accommodations.

The La Quinta Inn & Suites in Tacoma also offers a complimentary breakfast.

The Silver Cloud Hotel at Point Ruston Waterfront is also close to many Tacoma waterfront restaurants.

Check into the Silver Cloud Hotel at 2317 North

The La Quinta Inn is family friendly and close enough to major streets that it makes traveling to all Tacoma has to offer a breeze. Stay in the La Quinta at 1425 E 27th St.

Mid-Tier Location:

Ruston Way.

Plan Your Visit to Tacoma Today!

48

Tacoma has a lot to offer, so try to pack in as much

Courtyard by Marriott

as you can within your two-day visit. While the idea

Downtown Tacoma

is to explore the city in 48 hours, perhaps you’ll want

If you’re visiting Tacoma, you may want to spend the night in one of the many reliable chain hotels in the area. Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Tacoma is a great choice.

This modern contemporary hotel is in the middle of the financial and theater districts, making this a perfect home base for travelers that want to see a show while they explore the city. The Courtyard

by Marriott in downtown Tacoma is close to many tourist attractions, including the Tacoma Convention Center and museums. It’s also close to the Tacoma light rail for easy and inexpensive travel.

Each of the rooms are upscale with a contemporary style and have large windows that give you a beautiful view of the Tacoma skyline. Find the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Tacoma at 1515 Commerce Street.

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to add another day to your trip. Or, better yet, plan your next visit.

WANDER

WANDER

Forest Bathing

Sometimes it’s the simple things that contribute greatly to our mental and physical health. When we think of the term “self-care” oftentimes images of

bubble baths, wine or massages come to the front of our minds. But what if there was something free and easily accessible to you right now? What if it was as simple as a walk in the park?

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BY

Molly Lindquist

WANDER

The idea that getting outdoors is good for us is pretty

screen time modern humans are subject to - whether

pervasive in our culture, yet many people simply don’t

through work or otherwise - you might see how divided

incorporate it into their day to day. Perhaps we think of

we are from nature through the structure of modern

expensive road trips to scenic national parks or grueling

society. You might start to appreciate the need for making

uphill climbs to make it to the view to end all views. But what

time to do something as simple as sitting quietly in nature.

if you could reduce stress, increase immunity, lower blood

“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people

pressure and ease depression by simply walking in nature?

are beginning to find out that going to the mountains

The term Shinrin-Yoku or forest bathing was coined by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 1982. It was an official recognition of something rather intuitive and ancient. In fact, Buddhist and Shinto beliefs

is going home; that wilderness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.” ~ John Muir, 1901.

have emphasized a need for this for thousands of years.

While going to the mountains is absolutely ideal, I believe

Nowhere is the interconnectivity of beings more apparent

we can obtain many of the same benefits by utilizing

than in nature. One can observe how light, water and

our city or regional parks. The goal of Shinrin-Yoku is to

earth nurture the trees and without these elements, the

mindfully meander through nature, to utilize our 5 senses

trees would cease to exist. For most of our history as

to fully engage with our environment. Start by noticing

humans here on earth, we’ve spent time in nature. It’s a

the visual details of your environment; what is the light

recent phenomenon that humans have separated from

looking like among the tree leaves? Are there birds in the

nature and are spending increasing time indoors and in

canopy and if so, what are they doing? Can you hear the

urban environments. This is largely thanks to the industrial

birdsong or the sound of the wind rushing through the

revolution. Currently, 52% of humans live within a city’s limits

trees? If it’s a warm day can you smell the pine needles?

and that number is expected to increase as time goes on.

What does the texture of the tree bark feel like? What

So when you pair this fact with the immense amount of

does the path beneath your feet feel like? Admittedly the 5th sense of taste is tricky but in late summer you might

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67

promote lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, greater parasympathetic nerve activity, and lower sympathetic nerve activity than do city environments.” Park BJ, Tsunetsugu Y, Kasetani T, Kagawa T, Miyazaki Y. - 2010. A running theory is that phytoncides - aromatic compounds of plants - increase natural killer cells and therefore boost immunity, fight infection and decrease inflammation. So really focusing on deep breathing while Forest Bathing could help you to avoid many diseases and ailments.

So what about winter in areas that freeze? When most of the plant life is dormant and blanketed by snow, there are some options to get similar benefits indoors. Diffusing cedar essential oil is a great way to immerse the senses.

Watching hiking videos on YouTube is completely free and there are 4K very high quality videos available. They often are accompanied with the sounds of the forest, but you can find nature sounds readily available on Spotify or places like mynoise.net. A bit more of a commitment but indoor plants are ideal for bringing nature into the home. And for the brave among us, winter Forest Bathing yields many benefits. Even a short walk in nature will help, granted you need to have the appropriate winter gear if it gets below freezing in your area. find blackberries or huckleberries to pick from the vine.

Or bring along a snack from the grocery store. Be sure to turn off your phone during this time so that you aren’t distracted.

I think many of us in the Pacific Northwest are fans of nature but I believe Shinrin-Yoku offers a different approach to how we interact with our environment.

Challenging hikes and long runs outdoors are fantastic for

The more time that you can spend outdoors the greater

health, but so is slowing down to mindfully connect with

the benefits that you will receive from this practice, but

nature. It’s worth it to carve out time to Forest Bathe and

if you’re quite busy don’t let that stop you. A minimum

just experience being instead of constantly doing.

of 20 minutes a day will reap benefits, which could be as simple as taking your work lunch in a park or on a bench beneath a tree. In Spokane, Washington roughly 80% of our population lives within walking distance to a park. We are fortunate that early on, our city planners recognized that access to greenspaces is important for mental and physical health. The Northwest region has ample opportunity to get out into nature, whether it’s through our state, regional, city or national parks.

Many of us know that it feels good to be in nature but studies have proven without a doubt that there are enormous benefits to this free activity. A 2010 study from 24 forests in Japan determined that “Forest environments

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FULL CITATION OF RESEARCH STUDY Park BJ, Tsunetsugu Y, Kasetani T, Kagawa T, Miyazaki YThe physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environ Health Prev Med. 2010 Jan;15(1):18-26. doi: 10.1007/s12199-0090086-9. PMID: 19568835; PMCID: PMC2793346.

WANDER

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FUN

Full Moon in Aries: A R I E S : Your passions and moti-

advantage of the bolt of energy

start to feel a bit chaotic and

you will have and get things done.

out of control, which is not one

Your Tarot Card for this Full Moon

of your favorite feelings to have,

is 8 of Wands-Mastery, Action,

so start small in organizing the

Motivation and Willpower.

things immediately within your

C A P R I C O R N : Don't let the boss

control. Make lists, check things

or whomever you "report" to in

off. Doesn't that feel good? Your

life piss you off when they ask you

tarot card for this full moon is 4 of

to do things that you feel others

Wands- Structure in your projects

need to step up and do. Your

and organization.

capability speaks miles to those

please hear you out. Your opinions

Spokane, Wa called Children of the Crossroads. I've been doing

matter. Your Tarot card for this Full

L I B R A : Your sense of what is

Moon is The Strength card- Have

fair and right will be challenged.

confidence in your strength of

Make sure you take a step back

character. Flex your muscles!

before voicing your concerns.

tarot for about 30 years. I am

G E M I N I : Use your words and

very in tune with the phases of

communicate what you want.

the moon and how that energy

Express any concerns you may

effects each sign. I am here

have in a group project. Be clear,

every month to give you a quick

concise, and professional Your

rundown of your sign's energy

tarot card for this full moon is 3 of

during the Full Moon and New

Wands- working with groups and

Moon of each month, and which

achieving success.

tarot card best represents this

C A N C E R : Your need to clean house (physically and metaphor-

energy for you. I cannot wait to guide you through your starlit

ically) is strong. You will want to

journey!

make your home your palace and

Full Moon Readings

focus on keeping your abode

For the month of October, the Full

disruption will throw you off your

calm, serene, and collective. Any

Moon will be in Aries on 10/9/22

game, so your focus will be on

and the New Moon will be in

your sacred space. Your tarot

Scorpio on 10/25/22. Let's take

card for this full moon is 9 of

a look at how these 2 moons

Cups- Contentment, satisfaction

will affect each sign for this month, and what tarot card best represents those energies.

and gratitude.

With this Full moon in Aries energy, and the Sun being in your sign during this time period as well,

will also be heightened so lean into that. Your tarot card for this Full Moon is 2 of Wands- Balance in your projects and balance in your fiery energy is needed.

around you and people know you can handle a full workload, whether that be at your job or at home. Take it as a complement.

Your tarot card for this full moon is the King of Wands- natural leader, confidence.

the Aries fire will make you want

A Q U A R I U S : You will find yourself

to fight for your rights, but it could

with ideas to help community

come across as aggressive and

and the greater good this full

preachy so dial it down a notch.

moon. Your need to live in a fair

Your tarot card for this full moon

society is strong right now and

is the Hierophant- Tradition and

your decisions will be based on

Convention, deliver messages in a

this energy. Make sure you are not

thought out, critical thinking way.

only thinking of others, but hone

S C O R P I O : Don't let your anger get the best of you. Use your skills in self-reflection and observation to assess the situation. You will feel the need to

in on these ideas for yourself as well. Charity starts at home. Your tarot card for this full moon is 6 of coins- charity, generosity, sharing the abundance.

focus on people's faults, but you

P I S C E S : Your need to get things

also have a skill in choosing your

done will conflict with your need

words wisely, so practice that on

to self-reflect and emotionally dive

yourself first. Your tarot card for

into your feelings.You can combine

this full moon is 7 of Cups- Be

your heart and fire during this full

L E O : You will feel a pull to be

aware of your perceived images

moon. Get the things done that

heard and seen. A fire will be lit in

of those around you. Things may

also make your heart swell with joy.

your soul and body. Use whatever

not be how they appear.

Try not to over analyze why you

platforms you may need to use to announce important issues that you feel will benefit your world and others. Your tarot card for this full

70

boundaries. Your keen intelligence

full moon for you. Things might

aren't listening, ask them to

Priestess of a Wiccan coven in

out. It's okay to say "no" and set

this Full Moon in your sign. Take

get your point across. If people

and I am a third-degree High

others will gravitate towards.

V I R G O : Organization is key this

You know what you need to do to

My name is Lady Lola Stardust

overwhelm yourself and burn

vations will be on high alert during

TA U R U S : Stand up for yourself.

Merry Meet!

moon is The Sun- Be the light that

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S A G I T TA R I U S : Your need to take on too many projects will be in full gear. Burn out is real. Don't

may not get all your projects done.

They will be there in the morning.

Your tarot card for this full moon is The Magician- Inspired action!

FUN

New Moon in Scorpio A R I E S : Be aware of your temper. It may take you to a darker place than expected.

Make sure you take a breather from projects so you don't burn

cream right out of the carton, just

energy is 2 of cups- emotional

A Q U A R I U S : Working on

don't get TOO comfortable doing

balance and harmony.

your home will be important.

this. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is The Hermit-soul searching, being alone, inner guidance.

S C O R P I O : With the New Moon in your sign, you will want to dive deep into some dark places just to test those murky waters and

You will feel the need to purge some things to create a clean, streamlined space. Be mindful when doing this because this is also a good way to purge the

out. Keep your emotions in check

L E O : The first part of the month,

see how much you can take. It’s

before you decide to have any

you were a shining star. Now it

a little temperature gauge for

important chats with people. Your

is time to go inward and think

you that you like to be aware of.

Tarot Card for this New Moon is

why you feel the need for all

But, be aware that you might get

7 of Cups-Reflection, Assessing

that attention. Is it a childhood

sucked into those dark places

Emotions, Shadow work.

thing? Did you not get the love

for a lengthy time frame and de-

and affection you deserved

pression may take over. Your tarot

P I S C E S : Your emotional need

from your parental units? Or is

card for this New Moon energy

to self-analyze and hyper focus

it a deep rooted insecurity that

is The Devil reversed- Releasing

on every feeling you have will

manifests in social confidence

limiting beliefs, detaching yourself

be strong during this energy. Try

and charisma? Whatever it may

from dark thoughts.

to remember it's not all about

TA U R U S : Its Self Care Time!

Your need for sensual and indulging in pleasure is a perfect energy for this New Moon.

Envelop your senses in luxurious baths, rich foods, and good drink.

Celebrate you and your desires.

Your tarot card for this New Moon is 10 of Cups- Feel all the feels, take yourself out on a date and enjoy the romantic energy within.

G E M I N I : Take a break from filling the silence with conversation. Be in the moment of that stillness and listen to what the Universe is trying to tell you. A huge part of good communication is being a good listener so Listen to others, to yourself, and the New Moon's energy. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is Temperance-Balance, Moderation, Patience, and Purpose.

C A N C E R : You will feel the pull to stay home and hide for this New Moon. Don't feel guilty about not wanting to go out with friends and be social. Your little crab body sometimes needs to rejuvenate and heal in its shell, so take advantage of this time and relax. It's okay to stay in your pajamas all day and eat ice

be, its healthy to think what drives your star quality. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is The Moon-Listen to your subconscious intuition.

S A G I T TA R I U S : Your need to make plans and have adventures will be muted during this New Moon energy. Try to be more methodical about your plans. Don't

V I R G O : Your perfectionist

jump head first into projects.

ways can sometimes inhibit

Take the time to research more,

you from joy. Seek out those

investigate other approaches

mistakes you have made and list

to things, and maybe take this

the lessons and blessings you

time to meditate and marinate

have received from them. Do you

on ideas. Your tarot card for this

get as many lessons from your

New Moon energy is The Hanged

perfectionism? Or has your need

Man- be still, in the moment, take

for being perfect brought on a

pause and look at things from a

burn out, in which there was a

new perspective.

deep lesson you were actually learning. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is The Fooltake chances, make mistakes and laugh at them!

"junk" that has built up in your head. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is Ace of Swords-Breakthroughs, clear thoughts and clarity.

you and not to take things so personally. Your awareness of your emotional needs is always strong, but can lead you to some dark rabbit holes that don't always need to be explored. Your tarot card for this New Moon energy is The High Priestess- use your intuition when needed, balance and have the confidence in your self-reflection when needed as well.

C A P R I C O R N : Your status in your social groups is important during this time. Take the time to be the spectator and not always the planner. Rely on your social

L I B R A : What makes you feel

circle's ability to provide good

balanced? Meditation? Hot

times and introduce you to new

baths? A walk in nature? Find

and exciting things. Let loose

the things that bring your soul

and let your hair down! Your tarot

back into alignment that are

card for this New Moon energy

peaceful and understated. This is

is Page of Wands- free spirit and

the time to assess your chakras

limitless potential.

and work on aligning them. Your tarot card for this New Moon

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WORK

PHOTOS BY RACHEL FRENCH OF RACHEL FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

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ALY KORCHEMNIY

A Woman of Influence BY

Bailey Bowerman

I was honored to sit down recently

gling with skin or confidence, but

explains that she thought it was a

morning routine, because I have

with the queenly Aly Korchemniy

Korchemniy explained that Anfisa

scam at first! She then attended

so much to do each week.” She

of Anfisa Skin. We talked all things

was born out of her own need.

a beauty expo in New York and

stays grounded by “working out,

community, routine, spirituality,

She shared that she grew up with

got her balm into Anthropology.

connecting with God, and taking

and self-care! As always, Aly was

troubled skin and “especially as

“Looking back,” says Korchemniy,

some time for prayer and med-

endearingly humble, transparent,

a female, that plays into how you

“this has all been God. It could

itation.” Her days begin at 5:45,

and generous in sharing her

see yourself.” She started working

have all been a flop.”

and she hits the gym 4-5 times a

wisdom. In the age of influencers,

at a medspa at the age of 18 and

filters, and general smoke and

benefitted from the professionals

mirrors, Korchemniy is a true

there, quickly ascertaining that

woman of influence. She sticks

there was something missing

out as a gracious female leader

in the industry. She set out to

bringing virtue and value to the

make a balm just for herself. After

greater marketplace with her

she read her first motivational

skincare company Anfisa Skin

book (Awaken the Giant by Tony

and serving as a beautiful asset

Robbins), she decided to go for

to our community. I am beyond

it and share her creation with the

excited to share our conversation

world. The timeline from concept

with you.

to launch in January of 2018 was

BACKGROUND As she sipped her signature

2 years, and the rest is history.

She really thought it would just be a side hustle and give her a

matcha, looking effortless post-

little extra fun money, but things

yoga, in bright green leggings and

did not go that way. The day she

an oversized leather jacket, her

launched, Vogue reached out and

makeup-free skin actually glowed.

ran a story on Anfisa. Korchemniy,

It was hard to imagine her strug-

in her endearingly humble way,

Today, she has launched two products (the Lilou Radiant Hydra-Balm and the new An-Dew Serum) with cult-like followings that are sold by over 350 retailers worldwide.

week. Korchemniy explains that “the physical aspect is secondary for me.” Her focus is the mental health benefits of movement first thing in the morning. Her other morning staple is prayer and meditation time. She devotes at

ROUTINE/MENTAL HEALTH Whenever I am in the presence of an accomplished individual, I cannot resist asking about daily routine. Here, Korchemniy

least 20 minutes to reading the Bible and another book before she writes in her 5 minute journal, fuels with some breakfast, and heads to work.

surprised me when she laughed

Because the life of an entre-

and recalled a funny quote

preneur requires wearing so

she read recently about some

many hats, each day is different

people being early birds, some

for Korchemniy. Along with her

being night owls, and some just

morning routine, she keeps

being tired pigeons. “I’m just a

herself focused by using time

tired pigeon,” but “I focus on a

blocking and by taking meetings only 1-2 days each week.

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WORK BALANCE When asked how she balances it all, Korchmeniy explained that true balance requires a lot of self awareness and constant reflection. She reminded me that

overhaul each January, Korchem-

claim it as our neighbor. I asked

and “hurt people hurt people. . . .

niy likes to assess her schedule,

her about her experience running

Recently, I got negative feedback

routine, and productivity weekly

a business in Spokane and if

and thought ‘that’s ok.’ Three

to make changes regularly.

there is any temptation to move

years ago, it would have really

to a bigger city center. Without

upset me.”

COMMUNITY

pausing, she stated that “I love

I asked Korchemniy how she

Spokane because it’s such a

deals with the pressure of holding

supportive community. I grew up

influence in our community.

in Portland. It’s harder to connect

She blushed and said, with

there.” She elaborated, explaining

For Korchemniy, it’s all about

the true humility I’ve grown to

that “what I love about Spokane

determining which balls can

expect from her, “if I do influence

is that “everyone, especially

be dropped periodically and

someone, I’m so honored.”

the business community, is so

which are non-negotiable. For

She then praised the Spokane

encouraging and uplifting.” It

Korchemniy, the non-negotiables

business community for being

seems that we’ll get to boast of

include her relationships with her

so welcoming and willing to help

this gem for quite a while.

spouse and close friends and her

when she first started Anfisa.

health. Work is important, but she

For example, when she first met

reminds herself that it can stand

Bobby, the owner of Indaba, he

I closed our time together by

to be dropped here and there.

offered help and advice. She said

focusing on Korchemniy’s life

She reiterated that fun and work

that she was “so taken aback by

lately. It’s clear that her life, like

won’t always be 50/50; this looks

people’s willingness to help and

her skin, is beautiful. When asked

different for everyone.

support and connect us.” She

to share something she’s learned

made it clear that she doesn’t

about herself recently, Korchem-

view herself as an influencer, but

niy stated that, through both age

that she’s simply “trying to be

and experience, she developed

what others were for me.”

a tougher skin in her thirties.

“balance doesn’t mean equal parts, and your balance doesn’t look the same as my balance.”

One way she prioritizes her close relationships is that she keeps a list of her close friends–the kind she could call in the middle of the night if she needed something.

She keeps this list so that she stays connected with them regularly. She aims for one coffee or lunch date each week. If she’s able to take a workout class

SPOKANE FOREVER

LIFE LATELY

“When we first launched I’d take negativity so personally,” but

With the widespread success

she now knows that “you can’t

of Anfisa, we’re all so proud to

be a jar of nutella to everyone”

Korchemniy is thoroughly enjoying a stable, settled stage of life.

She had her husband have a fur baby (Bear Korchemniy) and recently moved out of downtown Spokane into a home with a yard.

“No one talks about how hard your twenties are. . . . It’s so messy because you’re trying to figure out so much. In your thirties, you’re wiser than you are in your twenties.

You’re more centered, and you know who you are as an individual.

The other surprising part is how tired you are. I’m definitely more of a tired pigeon.” (she laughed as she added this part.)

CLOSING THOUGHTS With the recent success of her new serum, rich relationships, and that dewey skin any twenty-something would die for, Aly Korchemniy is someone I am proud to call a neighbor, a friend, and a woman of true influence.

You can find Anfisa at @anfisaskin

with a friend, that

You can find Aly at

combines two goals!

@alykorchemniy

She also explained that she isn’t able to be as social as she once was but she prioritizes

You can find an Aly-approved Matcha at @ indabacoffee

special events

xoxo Bailey, your

(grand openings,

favorite Late

baby/wedding

Bloomer

showers, birthdays, etc.) Instead of an overwhelming annual

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