Platinum May 2018

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Making Waves

Hagadone takes facility, service up a notch

LEISURE

FOOD

Topiaries bring beauty

TOP CHEF Essential tools for your kitchen MAY 2018

Serving Spokane and Coeur d’Alene

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May 2018 May 2018

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PHILANTHROPY

SPOTLIGHT Go Red For Women Luncheon

The Go Red For Women Luncheon on Feb. 21, 2018, united heart disease and stroke survivors, supporters, volunteers, donors and sponsors together for a day of education and fundraising for the fight against heart disease and stroke. KREM 2’s Laura Papetti emceed the event at the Spokane Convention Center, which included a silent auction, wellness expo and luncheon program.

The 2018 Luncheon Chair Helen Andrus welcomed the crowd and local heart disease survivor Katy Bruya shared her journey with heart failure. The event concluded with a keynote presentation by Providence Health Care’s Dr. Brydan Curtis. The luncheon raised over $180,000 for the American Heart Association. heart.org/spokane

Go Red For Women Luncheon attendees enjoy the Life Is Why photo booth. (Paul Morgan Photography)

Project Beaut� Share

On March 15, 2018, Product Beauty Share – a Spokane-based nonprofit that provides area women with personal hygiene, cosmetics and beauty products – launched the 15-day, nationwide campaign #BeautyWishes2018 with YouTube beauty vlogger ThaTaylaa (Taylor) and four health and beauty companies to empower homeless women around the country. Five shelters in Los Angeles, New York City, Miami, Houston and Chicago received donations of make-up, hair care products and feminine hygiene products from Maybelline, Garnier, Tampax and Colourpop. The campaign also included a popular vote for one shelter to receive an additional $5,000 cash donation and a special meet-up with Taylor.

With 17,778 votes, the winning shelter was Good Shepherd Center in Los Angeles. The campaign also included T-shirt sales with 100 percent of the profits benefiting Project Beauty Share, resulting in $21,802.92 in donations. projectbeautyshare.org

Photo courtesy of youtube.com/thataylaa.

Upcoming Events May 22

Women Helping Women Fund Benefit Luncheon, whwfspokane.org

June 14

Kootenai Environmental Alliance Gala, kealliance.org

August 10

2018 Coaches vs. Cancer Game On Gala, cvcgameon.org

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

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Platinum

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LOOK

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LEISURE

FOOD

Volume 2, Issue 3

Publisher William Stacey Cowles

Director of Marketing & Business Development Kathleen Coleman Director of Sales Daniel Fritts Managing Editor Theresa Tanner

Art Director/Designer Anne Potter Contributors Sarah Bain Joe Butler Staci Lehman Cheryl-Anne Millsap Renée Sande Dan Webster The Spokesman-Review Editorial Team Adriana Janovich adrianaj@spokesman.com Advertising Bill Davidson

Let us know what you think!

Contact Platinum/The Spokesman-Review 999 W. Riverside Ave. Spokane, WA 99201 509.459.5095 EMAIL platinum@spokesman.com WEBSITE platinum.spokesman.com Free Digital Archives Online

INSTAGRAM @platinumspokanecda Cover photo courtesy of Chris-Craft

Supplement to The Spokesman-Review

FROM

the editor

These Days Are Just As Good A phrase you’ll hear from time to time calls out for “the good, old days.” The nostalgia older generations have for their formative years always seems preferable to whatever trends today’s youth has cultivated.

And sometimes young people want to reject the traditions of their elders out of hand, simply to assert their own identity and distinguish themselves from the past.

But most of the time, things are no worse than before – just different.

Some things are better, lots of things still need improvement. Usually it’s just a fear of the unfamiliar that causes skepticism.

Local barbers are bringing back the services of a bygone era, but with their own modern attitude – you wouldn’t see a barber with tattoo sleeves or body piercings in the 1950s.

A traditional English tea service isn’t just for little girls or old ladies; it’s a festive outing that can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages who appreciate good company and delicious treats.

And the subject of our cover story, Hagadone Marine Group, has embraced change, adding features and services that will appeal to the modern boater while achieving the same goals they’ve always had: helping families to create lifelong memories of good times at the lake.

There’s nothing wrong with appreciating the “good, old days” of the past. Just remember that today can be just as good, if we believe it and we work together to achieve it.

Theresa Tanner

managing editor May 2018

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LOOK

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The market is hot...are you looking to sell?

Old-school style

Local barbershops bring back the art of the shave

10 Cryotherapy

Cool treatment for a variety of body aches

14 Step up your game Summer activity needs reliable footwear

16 Decorating with topiaries Unique trees with style and structure

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LEISURE 28 Just keep boating

New service center sets standards high at Hagadone

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45 38 The Islands of Stockholm A stop in Sweden’s capital calls for a longer stay

41 Put some sizzle in your summer Plan for fun with music, sports and more

FOOD

Alternative accommodations

43

Options for vacations expand with booking websites

Local tea houses serve up elegance

32 Talking trails

Hike, bike, walk – local trails are calling!

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Dress up your front porch

Springtime in Savannah

Greet guests with a happy, summer vibe

Enjoy the historic Georgia city’s seasonal beauty

To a tea

45 Cook like a pro Essential tools for the aspiring home chef

47 Grilling season Try delicious, cedar-planked salmon this summer

CONTENTS

S PA C E

Sale ready homes

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PLATINUM BUZZ

LOVING THESE LILACS

For over 100 years, lilacs symbolized spring in Spokane. Since their introduction by developer J. J. Browne in 1906, the blooming bushes have united the community with annual celebrations like the Lilac Bloomsday Run and the Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade. Let’s draw some inspiration for spring style with this lovely, pastel purple!

Bring a creative energy to any room with an accent of Anthropologie Palm Wallpaper that has a kitschy, ’70s vibe.

Deborah Lippmann Genie in a Bottle Illuminating Nail Tone Perfector is a problem solver for discolored nails. The violet pigment neutralizes yellow tones and whitens tips for a clean, natural look.

A lightweight Nordstrom Men’s Shop Trim Fit Linen Blazer is a daring choice that looks cool with a clean polo and fitted slacks.

Lavender is a fragrant perennial that’s lovely in gardens and a delightful addition to many recipes. Add lavender to a classic shortbread recipe for a tea time snack, or drop a few sprigs in a pitcher of lemonade for a refreshing treat.

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LOOK

OLD-SCHOOL STYLE Indulge in a traditional shave

By Staci Lehman

Photo courtesy A Finer Moment

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It may be that men are finally catching on to what women have known for a long time – or maybe it is just more acceptable now – but more men are spending time and money on salon services that feel good, like traditional straight razor shaves.

While the straight razor shave used to be a barbershop mainstay, men are starting to come back to it for a different reason than your grandfather or great-grandfather.

“Mainly it’s something they enjoy, something they’ve always wanted to try,” said Stacie Bishop, owner of the three Locker Room Men’s Salon locations in North Idaho.

“They do it because it’s relaxing; men are starting to take care of themselves more; pamper themselves.”

Chris Banka, owner and barber at the Brickyard Barbershop on Monroe in north Spokane, agrees.

“I think one of the things that men are learning is to enjoy the experience of going to a nice place and getting a quality service … they’re learning to enjoy that and embrace the traditional art of going to the barbershop,” he said.

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It also forces them to slow down a bit; a shave takes about 45 minutes start to finish.

“Because you’re moisturizing before and using the hot towels to soften everything up,” said Banka. “We’re not trying to rush through it.”

The traditional straight razor shave involves several steps. It starts with softening the skin and opening the pores to avoid razor burn, usually done by applying a hot towel to the face. Many barbers then use a pre-shave oil to condition the skin and a shave cream or gel.

Then the shaving begins, often taking two passes over the entire face for optimal closeness. Cold water is sometimes splashed on the skin afterward to tighten the pores, followed by applying a shave balm or moisturizer to keep the skin soft.

Some shaves, such as at the Locker Room in Post Falls, include a facial massage.

Not just any stylist can perform a straight razor shave, though. It requires a different license than what most stylists earn in cosmetology school. While both barbers

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MEN ARE STARTING TO TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES MORE Chris Banka

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and stylists can cut, color, perm or style hair, only barbers are licensed to perform razor shaves. And, at least in North Idaho, barbers aren’t always easy to come by.

“Barbers are hard to find these days but they’re making a comeback,” said Bishop. Their salon’s barber is “starting to build a clientele. People are starting to know she’s here.”

Banka says a lot of his clients have expressed an interest in learning how to do it at home and he usually directs them to their computer for that.

“With the internet and YouTube there’s a million tutorials. Number one, take your time. Go really slow.”

The trend in straight razor shaving Banka says he is seeing is to do group appointments for wedding parties. Instead of buying groomsmen the traditional flask, grooms often bring them to the Brickyard for haircuts and shaves – the man’s version of a spa day.

With the beard craze the past couple years, though, many people are going from a really close shave to the other extreme: large bushy beards.

Banka’s barbers perform a lot more beard trims than straight shaves.

They also sell a lot of beard oil and mustache wax, something that wasn’t popular until recent years.

“There’s a difference between just not shaving and growing a beard,” he said. “And taking care of your skin that’s under the beard.”

When the beard trend ends and you are ready to go smooth-shaven, a traditional straight razor shave costs anywhere between about $20 and $40, a price many men are starting to see as an investment, according to Banka.

“I think that just they’re learning to take care of themselves better now and their significant others are appreciating that.” P

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Cryotherapy:

THE NEW ICE BATH

By Staci Lehman

It used to be there was little you could do about soreness following a tough workout or sports injury – apply ice or heat and wait for it to heal. Today there is a more proactive approach. Cryotherapy is the use of extremely low temperatures to reduce many health complaints.

Buckner purchased his cryo spa after using it himself and becoming a believer.

“I suffer from an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain,” he said. “When you see how bad the opioid crisis is, if there’s an alternative to that, I think we should try it.”

“We like your body temperature to get below 60 degrees,” said Lacy Gannon who, with her husband Pat Gannon, owns Spokane Cryo in Spokane Valley. “That’s when you start to feel the benefits.”

Arianna Johnson agrees. Along with her husband, chiropractor Dr. Ryan Johnson, DC MS CCSP, they own Spokane Sport and Spine and have sent many people to their cryotherapy provider, Spokane Nutrishop and Cryotherapy.

Cryotherapy is said to treat everything from arthritis, chronic pain, fibromyalgia and general inflammation to depression and lack of energy. And while that kind of cold sounds uncomfortable, people who have tried it say it’s not.

“It was never painful, I could still talk through it,” said Arianna Johnson, who has tired cryotherapy several times. “I was actually warm after. My body warmed up really fast.”

In cryotherapy, clients get undressed (except for gloves and socks to protect extremities and underwear for men) and into a structure that resembles a big tank with an open top.

“I like to tell people it’s kind of like a stand up tanning bed,” said Gannon.

Except this device is cold instead of hot.

It uses dry nitrogen to reach two hundred degrees below zero. Each session lasts around three minutes and users say they feel the benefits immediately.

“You can exercise ten or 15 minutes afterward and I’ve had clients who are athletes say they’ve have the best workout they’ve ever had,” said Brayson Buckner, owner of 509 Cryo.

“I think an ounce of prevention is so worth doing,” said Johnson. “Why not use something that is known for reducing inflammation rather than having surgery, if you can?”

Spokane Nutrishop and Cryotherapy has an unusual cryo sauna in that it first heats the body up before cooling it down.

“I’ve tried a few sessions now and love it. I’ve referred a lot of people,” said Johnson. “My mom tried it. She’s older and has fibromyalgia and loved it.”

Pat and Gannon opened Spokane Cryo because they also loved it. Pat is an Ironman competitor and Lacy instructs fitness classes, so both have frequent muscle aches.

“You kind of get an adrenaline rush,” said Gannon. “Your body goes into fight or flight mode to warm itself back up.”

Gannon says this leaves her feeling refreshed and revitalized, and with less pain.

“I’ve got one client with rheumatoid arthritis,” said Buckner of 509 Cryo. “He started off once a week, then increased May 2018

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Photos are courtesy of Brayson Buckner of 509 Cryo.

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it to a couple times a week. Then he went to see his doctor and she said, ‘What are you doing?

We’re going to start tracking this because you’re showing improvement.’”

But is it a placebo effect or does cryotherapy really work? While cryotherapy has been considered a sanctioned medical treatment in Europe for decades, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says there is no evidence it effectively treats or improves any diseases or conditions. As for potential risks, FDA’s website says cryotherapy could potentially cause frostbite, burns and asphyxiation from nitrogen vapors.

Despite the warning, cryotherapy seems to be growing in popularity in the U.S. across demographics.

Buckner says his clientele is everybody. “I’ve got old people with joint pain and young people with joint pain from exercising too hard.”

Cryotherapy costs anywhere from $20 to $45 per session with package rates available. P

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STEP UP YOUR GAME Keep your feet happy as you get moving this summer

REI

The Walk Shoppe

Fleet Feet Sports

By Theresa Tanner

The imminent sunny days of a Northwest summer means two things: people are spending more time outside, and they’re spending more time moving. After a gray spring, parks are green again and traffic on local trails is getting busy.

With so much activity in store for the glorious summer ahead, you need a shoe that can keep up!

Runner’s Life Whether you’re a longtime runner or trying to get into a routine, consulting with a sales associate at Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is a smart place to start.

Every sale begins with a six step fit process that’s about a half-hour or longer, according to fit specialist Chris MacMurray. Staff takes into account your desired level of activity, injuries and the shape and condition of your foot before making recommendations.

“It’s a very personalized experience.

What everyone else is wearing might not 16

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be right for you,” MacMurray said.

Although every foot is different, MacMurray says that Brooks is one of the more popular and best fitting shoes they sell. “Nine times out of 10, that’s what I send out the door.”

He also noted that although HOKA ONE ONE shoes may look a little awkward, people like their cushioned, lightweight feel.

One shoe that’s getting a lot of attention right now is Nike’s new Epic React Flyknit.

Nike boasts that their “foam cushioning is responsive yet lightweight, durable yet soft” to keep you comfortable, no matter how long you run.

But the right shoe for you might be a different brand entirely. It all depends on the foot.

Such Great Hikes The right hiking shoe is also different for everyone, especially when the term “hike” covers a range of activity levels.

REI has conveniently categorized its hiking footwear into four styles that will help you determine the right shoe for your adventures.

Approach shoes, which have a sneakerlike appearance, are lightweight and suitable for trail hiking or light scrambling.

Day hiking shoes and boots are durable but not heavy, comfortable without sacrificing control.

Backpacking boots have stiffer midsoles to provide more support if you’re carrying a heavy pack, with an aggressive outsole tread to improve your grip on rugged trails.

And the zenith, in a manner of speaking, is mountaineering boots, which are compatible with crampons for the tough terrain of Northwest peaks.

Fleet Feet Sports

The Walk Shoppe

REI

Sunday Strollers Although you’d probably be the most comfortable wearing your sneakers around the clock, they aren’t always the most stylish accessory. And if you’re trying to keep cool on a sunny vacation, you still want comfort and support in a travel-friendly sandal.

The Walk Shoppe sales associate Krista Ostlund recommends Vionic shoes and sandals. Designed by podiatrist Phillip Vasyli, the brand’s shoes are biomechanically designed to hug arches and support natural alignment.

Along with casual sandals for both men and women, Vionic’s line also includes dressier options, like boat shoes for men and wedges for women, which are perfect to complete an outfit for an outdoor wedding or weekend brunch. P

May 2018

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S PA C E

STYLE AND STRUCTURE:

Decorating with Topiaries

Photo by Cheryl-Anne Millsap

By Cheryl-Anne Millsap

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Topiary is a thing these days. Open a glossy magazine or scroll through gorgeous Instagram photos and you’re likely to notice tiny trees in pretty pots on windowsills and tabletops, or balls of shrubbery, tightly trimmed and used to outline front walks and flower beds, in one image after another.

Think of the formal symmetry of the gardens of Versailles, with long rows of potted evergreen shrubs trimmed into conical shapes and placed in smooth gravel beds, or the front door of an English country house flanked by perfectly shaped boxwood balls in mossy terra cotta pots.

When many people hear the word “topiary” they picture giant green living sculptures trained into whimsical shapes. Giant chickens or upright bunnies towering over a green lawn come to mind. But the elegant art of topiary at its most basic is more refined.

This understated and classic look is experiencing a revival with gardeners and interior decorators as a way to bring a touch of the outdoors inside or to help your exterior reflect the interior style of your home.

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Inside Track If you love the elegant look of topiary but don’t have the time or space for outdoor planting, small potted evergreen plants are perfect for bringing a touch of green indoors.

Delicate myrtle or bright green lemon cypress in small clay pots make attractive centerpieces or bring classical symmetry to your mantle.

A row of tiny potted rosemary plants whose lower limbs have been removed, leaving a fluff of greenery at the top, add fragrance and an informal decorative element.

Tiny boxwood plants, available at garden stores and nursery centers, can be used as indoor greenery during winter months and transplanted outdoors in spring. Eugenia and dwarf olive trees are also good options for indoor topiary.

Enter the world of Titanic.

Take It Outside The perfectly trimmed boxwood balls you see in magazines or those classic BBC costume dramas require a lot of attention, but if you want the topiary effect in your garden without the maintenance, the always-popular arborvitae is an perfect option. Often planted to screen a fence or as a sound or windbreak for houses on busy streets, the rough trees thrive in tough conditions. Trimmed flat across the top they are better able to handle snow load. When sculpted

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into a tower of pompoms and potted, they add whimsy that can be moved around the garden.

your garden or landscape, these trees survive winters and can bear the dry heat of Inland Northwest summers.

Ornamental boxwood balls have to be shorn regularly to keep their classic shape but there are other boxwood varieties that grow in more upright or pyramid shapes and do well with only occasional shaping. There are taller columnar varieties, which are perfect for adding a pop of green, and height, to small garden spaces.

Magic Ball or Bowling Ball arborvitaes are varieties that grow in a distinctive ball shape, adding interest without the work of boxwood.

Grow Where You’re Planted: Choosing topiaries Dwarf Alberta Spruce is an excellent option for our Zone 5 winters. Hardy and evergreen, with a naturally compact and conical shape, Alberta Spruce is perfect for ornamental landscaping in Spokane. Whether planted in the ground or potted in big, frost proof pots and strategically placed to add year round interest to

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Blue Star Juniper’s unique “cake pop” profile provides a bit of garden structure during northwest winters, standing up above the snow on a straight trunk when most perennials have died back.

Gardening Tip Many local nursery centers stock 3 to 5-year-old plants that have already been grown and trained for topiary shapes. Consult a landscaping professional for planting tips and shrub/tree maintenance. P

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Decorating your front porch now that spring is finally here is a great way to underscore the season’s theme—a time of awakening and rebirth. From painting the front door a cheerful color to DIYing a flower container, there are easy ways to give this exterior focal point a makeover. Try some of these simple ideas to get your porch in shape for the season.

lush flowering plants in pots. For a spring feel, choose brightly colored containers that work nicely with your front door color, says Leah Gomberg, owner of Sweet Life By Design, a home-staging company in Maplewood, N.J. “For a more dramatic look, try a pedestal container,” she says.

“Also, think about grouping containers and using plants in a variety of heights.”

Clean the porch.

Start with the basics: Scrub the floor, wash the windows, and store snow shovels in the garage. The less cluttered the porch, the better it will look.

Pick seasonal flowers.

There’s no shortage of spectacular spring blooms, including hydrangeas, tulips, peonies, Queen Anne’s lace, daffodils, daisies, magnolias, and geraniums. Choose by shape, color, and personality (magnolias are lush and romantic, daisies are perky and cute).

Set out pretty flower pots.

The classic way to dress up a front porch is with colorful,

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Choose fresh over faux.

While you could use artificial flowers to decorate, why not go with fresh blooms to better represent spring’s themes? To keep the flowers from drying out too quickly, stick stems in individual floral water tubes which, when filled with water, act like mini vases to keep flowers moist.

Paint the front door.

“If you want to make a big change,” says Gomberg, “give the door a new coat of paint in a spring color like aqua, lilac, or light green.” It’s an easy way to instantly boost your home’s curb appeal.

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Paint a bench or rocker, too.

Give your porch’s bench or rocker a spring awakening by painting it a gorgeous new shade. “The color you use depends on the color of the door,” says Gomberg, who also suggests adding a colorful throw pillow or two to the bench and chair to make them even more inviting.

Hang an umbrella wreath on the door.

Got a colorful umbrella you’re not using anymore? Fill it with tulips, the quintessential spring flower, to underscore the saying “April showers bring May flowers.” Close the umbrella, position it upside-down (the handle should be pointed up), and arrange the flowers within. Tie a pretty ribbon around the middle of the umbrella and it’s ready to be hung on a nail on your front door.

Showcase rain boots.

Repurpose those yellow rain boots your kids have outgrown (or buy from a thrift shop), and set them on the porch filled with your favorite spring flowers.

If using fresh blooms, put them in floral water tubes and stabilize them in the boots with newspaper or tissue paper.

Get a rug.

Make your porch feel like an extension of your living room when you place a brightly colored rug front and center. Get one that’s made for outdoor use. If a rug isn’t in your budget, consider a new entry mat. P © CTW Features

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Housebeautiful.com

Sale Ready Homes

By Theresa Tanner

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blog.godrejinterio.com

If you’re thinking of putting your house up for sale, now is a great time.

After the subprime mortgage crisis and recession of the mid-2000s, the market has steadily recovered and more people are ready to buy homes.

But with local housing inventory low, some properties are only on the market for a few days and attracting multiple offers – not a bad problem to have!

Even in a seller’s market, you probably have some work to do to get your house in tip-top shape. But where should you invest your time and energy for a sale-ready house?

Open House Odyssey

While you make the open house rounds to find your next residence, check out listings that are similar in scope and price to your current house. Get a feel for what other sellers have done to prepare their homes for sale, and take note of any mistakes that you’ll want to avoid as you prepare to sell.

Fix and Refine

Hire a handyman service to give your house a sprucing up of any small issues, like leaky faucets, creaky hinges or minor roof repairs.

Replacing broken windows or appliances will also add some polish to your house, as will updating old light fixtures, ceiling fans or outlet covers – you can find relatively inexpensive options that will give the house a nice, clean look.

And while it may end up costing a bit more, an inspection in advance of selling will help you determine the value of your home. You can either work the improvement costs into your asking price, or price a house in need of work appropriately. Making sure your house is up to code will save everyone time and heartache during the selling process.

Patches and Paint

If you’re trying to convince a buyer that your child’s nursery – with a festive mural of woodland animals – would make a perfect home office, you’re going to need some paint. It’s a good idea to neutralize dramatic colors or custom stenciling with off-white tones. It give the home a blank canvas so future owners can determine their own color scheme.

Before touching up paint, patch holes or cracks in walls and ceilings.

After, you’ll also want to replace worn or stained rugs, and have carpets professionally cleaned.

Clean and Declutter

We’re talking spotless. We’re talking a “visit from a judgmental, overbearing mother-in-law on a cheesy ’90 sitcom”-levels of cleaning.

Hire a cleaning service for a day to give everything a good scrubbing; it’ll be easier to maintain that level of cleanliness with quick vacuums, dustings, etc. every day.

It’s also a common practice for sellers to remove family photos and other personal effects. But don’t simply stuff your belongings in closets, basements or the garage; storage space can be a big selling point. Depending on the amount of items you need to “hide,” you may need to rent a small, short-term storage space.

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First Impression

When potential buyers pull up curbside, you want their first thought to be, “Wow,” not “Ugh.” Even if your house isn’t in need of exterior paint, a power wash will make a big difference.

With landscaping, keep everything trimmed and tidy. Some people might be turned off by a complex garden that requires a lot of work, and adventurous gardeners will see an opportunity to put their own stamp on the property.

And that first impression extends to the entryway, where most of us keep our heaps of shoes, coats and bags for quick exits. Instead, try to recreate the peaceful atmosphere you might find at hotel or spa lobby: the soft light of candles, a cozy chair and relaxing music. P

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May 2018

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LEISURE

JUST KEEP BOATING

Facility renovation puts customer experience at forefront of boat sales

By Theresa Tanner

Hagadone Marine Group celebrated the grand opening of its new service center at Blackwell Island on Lake Coeur d’Alene in August last year, drawing over 1,200 members of the boating industry and community. This year will be the first start of boating season for the organization following a 3-year renovation project.

Hagadone Marine Group President Craig Brosenne says the start of the season will be the “real test” of the new facility, as his team prepares to service 2,000 boats by Independence Day. “Everything has to be perfect.”

Inspired by Toyota’s service system, the Hagadone Marine Center was designed to enhance the customer experience and streamline efficiency between departments to get boaters on the water as quickly as possible, whether buying a new boat, fueling up at the gas dock or replacing broken parts.

“Sales sells one boat; service sells the second,” Brosenne said.

As the largest on-water dealership in the area, HMG enjoys the many benefits of its lakefront location.

The opportunity for potential buyers to test drive boats on Lake Coeur d’Alene is a huge advantage, as customers literally get to see themselves on the lake.

They have over 300 boats in stock from a range of makers, including premium brands like Malibu, Axis, Chris-Craft, Regal, Cobalt and Harris Pontoons.

Customers can also select custom features to design their dream boat. They can meet with sales representatives in a conference room and pull up all the options available on a flat screen TV. “They can get a feel for it on the water, then pick out the exact features and custom colors they want,” said Brosenne.

Unlike a car purchase, buying a boat isn’t stressful for most people, he adds, and most customers have a good idea of what they want when they arrive. Sales staff is also equipped to ask open-ended questions to help those that are still searching for the perfect boat for their lifestyle.

“For the past 13 years, we’ve been in the Top 100 dealers nationwide every year we’ve applied and most recently ranked number 18 – that’s big for a community of our size. We always shoot for number 1 and hope to be in the Top 10 in 2019,” he said.

The sales office is designed with service counters as islands, rather than a long counter to separate customers and staff, and double computer screens so customers are more involved in the process. It also houses the Pro Shop with the largest selection in the area of wakeboards, surfboards and other water sports equipment.

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On the service end, the new facility includes 50,000 square feet of workspace and 36 maintenance bays, as well as a 3,600-square-foot, environmentally-sound wash bay with a 40,000-lb. crane. Premium boat services include hull cleaning, buffing and waxing, engine and drive maintenance, painting and fiberglass restoration.

Approximately $1 million in repair parts are kept on site with a meticulous inventory system, alongside a library of manuals and catalogues with information about older boats that may be difficult to track down with online resources or contemporary databases.

“We service every brand, model and size of boat, so we keep as many different replacement parts as we can on hand to keep people boating,” Brosenne said.

The renovated facility also allowed HMG to consolidate two companies, Resort Boat Shop and Coeur d’Alene Custom Wood Boats, and bring them onsite. People send their boats from across the country for restoration.

With such a wide range of services and tasks – and high expectations of staff performance – extra measures were taken in the renovation to create an optimal work environment for employees.

“It’s a tough job being a technician in the heat of summer.

Taking care of our employees is really important,” said Brosenne as he led a tour through a 40-person staff break room with adjacent locker and changing rooms. “We added windows to the buildings to bring in natural light, which really adds to the quality of a work environment for employees.”

Unlike some in the boating industry, HMG stays busy yearround, with wintertime storage services and management of three Lake Coeur d’Alene marinas with over 1,000 boat slips between them.

“It’s not just a job, it’s a passion and culture,” Brosenne said. “Our parent company is hospitality driven. Every single person is important to us. Our company mission is to provide every boater with the very best ‘O.W.E.’ – On Water Experience.”

WHICH BOATS STAND OUT IN 2018?

Good Time Versatility Looking for an affordable option with lots of seats for your party?

Want to switch from a relaxing morning of fishing to some raucous water toy action? “Pontoon boats are huge right now,” said Brosenne.

Revolutionary Innovation If you’re looking for “a buttery soft ride on rough lakes,” Brosenne can’t say enough about the quality of Cobalt boats. The company revolutionized surf boats in a sterndrive market with their Volvo Forward Drive system, positioned under the boat to allow for safe wakesurfing.

Action-packed Tech Brosenne says they’re seeing the biggest segment growth in Malibu towboats. “They have so much tech built in, it can be overwhelming. But consumers love it.” From digital dashboards and surf systems to mega speakers, the fun doesn’t slow down – just how adventure seekers like it.

Luxury Style Elegance and timeless beauty define all Chris-Craft models, but their true value is in the lifelong, family memories you’ll make.

With plenty of storage and seating, just add good company for a day of fun on the lake.

HMG offers a Quick Launch service for day boaters without slips. With two hours notice, staff will retrieve a boat from dry storage, fuel and launch it. Brosenne is looking into adding a similar Sky Launch program, which stores boats in a stack structure and removes them with a fork lift.

They are also considering founding a boat club, which would allow individuals to own a boat together, and enjoy use during scheduled time. At a fraction of the cost and investment of full-time boat ownership, “it’s a great way to get younger people into boating,” Brosenne said, although those who enjoy it will often end up buying a boat of their own.

“If you’re in North Idaho, you gotta have a boat,” Brosenne said. “It’s a way of life.” P

Photos courtesy of Hagadone Marine Goup.

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ACCOMODATIONS

By Dan Webster

The drug paraphernalia we found on the stairwell was a pretty clear indication that our first Airbnb venture wasn’t going to work out.

That situation occurred several years ago, back when we were Airbnb rookies. Since then, we’ve gotten a whole lot better at picking our spots.

I’ll get back to that unfortunate experience in a moment.

First, though, if you’ve done any traveling over the past decade, domestic or international, you’re no doubt familiar with Airbnb. The company has transformed the vacationrental industry the way Uber and Lyft have changed the way we contract for transportation.

It and a number of other booking sites, such as VRBO.com, Expedia.com and Travelocity, offer easy, often inexpensive ways to find, and arrange, holiday deals.

Want to go to Hawaii but don’t want to stay in a hotel where prices are as high as the chances for privacy are low? Just go to airbnb.com, type in your destination and, voila, you might find a studio for two in Kihei, Maui, within walking distance of the beach – for just $95 a night.

Neat, eh? But as with any business deal, the traditional rule of thumb applies: You, the buyer, must beware. Here, then, are a few tips to make sure your Airbnb experience is as good as you hope.

Make sure you know what you’re getting. Our first Airbnb experience involved trying to book a vacation rental near my daughter’s co-op in Brooklyn. The location was right, as was the price, and while the photos of the apartment made the living space look fairly Spartan, everything seemed to fit our needs.

Then we showed up. After finding the address, no mean feat, we gained access and walked up the grungy stairwell. In addition to the items that my wife spotted resting on one step amid other trash, which made us feel as if we were walking into an episode of “CSI: NY,” we found the apartment to be bare to the extreme. No lamps, only overhead lighting. Not what we expected at all.

Which brings us to a second tip: Make sure you understand your rights if things go south.

To its credit, Airbnb – after a minor amount of hassle – gave us a full refund. And I think that was largely because the company’s website lists a number of reasons that warrant refunds, one of which reads, “The listing is unsanitary, unsafe, or hazardous to the health of your guests.”

Understand, too, what is expected of you. Is there a cancellation policy? What about the security deposit? How clean are you expected to leave the place? What happens if you bring along more friends than you originally mentioned?

Is that iPhone power cord in your bag yours, or was it something that belonged to the owner?

And on that last point: Our second Airbnb booking in Brooklyn was a vast improvement over the first. Not only was the second-floor apartment a mere 10-minute walk from my daughter’s residence, it afforded us easy access to most of our favorite parts of the borough: Fort Greene Park, Greenlight Bookstore, the Brooklyn Art Museum and a number of restaurants (I love to eat breakfast at Junior’s).

It was only when we returned home that we received an email inquiring about the iPhone power cord the owner had courteously left for us to use. And, yeah, turns out I had packed it away, assuming it was mine. I returned it by mail as soon as I could.

One final thing: Check out the comments section before you finalize any deal. One of the first things I do anymore when contemplating whether to buy pretty much anything is to read the comments. This goes for everything from books to blenders.

And I don’t read just the positive reviews. Sometimes, it’s the negative comments that provide the most honest information.

The more you read, the more realistic expectations you’re bound to develop.

To wit, needles in the stairwell. That’s never a good sign.

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By Joe Butler

There are a lot of things local business leaders and recruiters like to say and do to make the Inland Northwest appeal to prospective employers and employees, like quality restaurants, colorful local history, an affordable workforce, real estate opportunities and that cool new ice/ roller ribbon at Riverfront Park.

It doesn’t take long before the phrase “quality of life” makes its way into conversations, especially when considering all that open space and easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities. To reference the City of Spokane’s nowabandoned slogan, “Near Nature, Near Perfect,” the second half has always been a bit subjective, but the first half was always spot-on.

Besides an abundance of seasonal activities within easy reach – snow sports in the winter, lake fun in the summer

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– the area’s natural landscape make it easy for anyone to get out and get physical any time on the hundreds of miles of suburban, urban and rural public trails and trail systems in Eastern Washington and North Idaho.

The proximity to distinct neighborhoods, businesses and public areas are convenient if you’re looking to establish a favorite route, change things up with different terrain or even test your endurance by seeing how far you can run, walk, bike, stroll or jog.

Now that summer is approaching, outdoor rec fans itching to get out and play will have no end to the paved trails around town. Even better, the role in advising future trail planners about what you’d like to see in the next decade.

Here’s a summary of some trails worth checking out:

Centennial Trail

Stretching from the Nine Mile Falls area on the west side of Spokane to the east side of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the trail offers more than 60 miles of non-motorized access, much of it parallel to the scenic Spokane River. The trail was proposed in conjunction with the Washington and Idaho centennial celebrations in 1989 and 1990, respectively, hence its name. The trail is managed by several agencies in both states, as well as two non-profit groups: Friends of the Centennial Trail and North Idaho Centennial Trail Foundation.

Access is free, although the State of Washington does require Discover Passes to park at certain trailheads within Riverside State Park. Though there are some slow and isolated areas near the Idaho-Washington border, there can be some higher-traffic zones in downtown Spokane.

Fish Lake Trail

The former rail line provides a scenic and easy out-and-back west from Spokane to Cheney that takes riders through forests, plains, channeled scabland and Queen Lucas Lake. The actual trail is only 9 miles one way, but the gentle route splits off in several spots, allowing riders or walkers to continue to Fish Lake, the Turnbull Wildlife Refuge or other former rail lines in the larger Columbia Plateau Trail system. Southbound, there’s a steady but gentle uphill grade that’s manageable for inexperienced (or slightly out of shape) riders. Like the Centennial Trail, users enjoy the quick transitions in scenery from urban to rural, from meadows to forests. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the West Plains trail can get mighty hot on sunny summer days.

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Route of the Hiawatha

You do need a bike, but don’t need to be an advanced rider to enjoy this converted rail line near the Idaho-Montana border, off of Interstate 90. The 15-mile trail is a great summer bucket list activity, no matter your age or abilities. There are some dark, cold and sort of scary parts involving damp creepy tunnels (bring your bike light), but there are also some beautiful vistas. Trail passes are required ($11 for adults, $7 for children ages 6-13). Bike rentals and shuttle service are available, as well as group rates for parties of 10 or more, through ridethehiawatha.com.

Children of the Sun Trail

This trail expanded to 10-miles in 2015 as part of the North Spokane Corridor project. It offers lovely scenery, especially when looking south, and it’s a great alternative for bicycle commuters who want to reduce north-south congestion. The trail name refers to the generally accepted meaning of Spokane in the Salish language. Planning to extend the route another 5 miles is scheduled for this year, so public input is requested on what features could be included. State and local transportation officials began taking suggestions and holding workshops this spring.

For a guide to trail systems, visit the Washington Trails Association at wta.org or the Rails to Trails Conservancy at traillink.com. The Spokesman-Review Outdoors at spokesman.com/outdoors also features news and information about trail opportunities. P

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T R AV E L

in Savannah

By Cheryl-Anne Millsap

When we left Spokane, the early morning sky was the color of lead and spitting pellets of snow and ice. Hours later, when our plane touched down in Georgia and we drove into the beautiful and historic city of Savannah, even though the day there was unseasonably chilly, the difference was noticeable.

Tall live oak trees, swathed all year in Spanish Moss, already bore tender green leaves. Drifts of colorful azalea hedges were in bloom. Mockingbirds sang and, to my delight, as I stood in front of the beautiful exterior of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, flocks of Cedar Waxwings swept from one berry-laden tree to the next.

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Summer in the Northwest is bright and beautiful but spring is slow to arrive here and fades too soon. By contrast, springtime in the South is picture pretty and the season can linger from March to May. Savannah is a lovely place to lose your cabin fever. Here’s how we spent a few days there.

Sweet Dreams First, before you even get the key to your room, the exquisitely decorated lobby library at the DoubleTree by Hilton Savannah Historic District is worth a peek. Painted

deep indigo and accented with an elegant aubergine sofa and a flickering fire in the fireplace, the Cobalt Library is the perfect place to spend a few minutes going over your itinerary or taking a break before dinner.

Located just a few steps away from the bustling city market and River Street attractions, the hotel is ideally situated with large comfy rooms and excellent amenities. We will definitely stay there again.

Food and Drink We were lucky to have a local (who also happens to be one of our children) as our tour guide, so when it was time to eat, our daughter took charge.

Breakfast one morning was a biscuit and grits feast at Clary’s (claryscafe.com), a landmark diner-style eatery in the bustling heart of the historic district. A favorite lunch was bratwurst and ale on the patio at Moon River Brewing (wordpress.moonriverbrewing.com).

One night we found ourselves at an unassuming but fantastic restaurant southeast of Midtown called the Howlin’ Hound (howlinhound.com), where I had some of the best flounder I’ve ever eaten. Seriously. People are tired of hearing me talk about that flounder.

On the night before we left, we took a winding path down wide alleys to a real backyard barbecue joint recommended by my daughter’s classmate, and my husband ate his fill of tasty pulled pork.

See and Do We had more on our see and do list than we could get to this trip, but we did manage to hit some of the highlights of Savannah.

For me, the triple-treat of the Telfair Museums (telfair.org) was an afternoon well spent. After checking out the contemporary art and current exhibitions housed in the strikingly modern Jepson Center, we moved to the elegant Regency mansion that’s now a museum filled with an outstanding collection of significant 19th and 20th Century European and American art.

From there we took the short stroll to join a guided tour of the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, where we were educated about

LEFT: Azaleas at Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. TOP: Live oaks at Wormsloe Historic Site.

BOTTOM: Cobalt Library, DoubleTree by Hilton Savannah Historic District. Photos by Cheryl-Anne Millsap.

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LEFT: Art at Telfair Museum.

RIGHT: Azaleas in Savannah.

Photos by Cheryl-Anne Millsap.

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the history of a significant Savannah family and the lives of the slaves who built and maintained the house and the lifestyle of the family in it. A single ticket admits you to all three museums and the range of art and history is well worth the price.

Ghost tours are all the thing in Savannah right now and after dark there seemed to be one on every corner. I didn’t see anything more ghostly than the glow of one tour leader’s iPad as he shepherded his group through town, but I heard that many residents have a spooky story or two to share.

Worth a stop is Bonaventure Cemetery (bonaventurehistorical.org), the evocative setting for the book and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” The beautiful, historic cemetery is filled with statues and monuments, but visitors should note: the iconic Bird Girl statue featured on the cover of John Berendt’s book has moved to The Jepson Center.

Wormsloe Historic Site (gastateparks.org/wormsloe) is the site of Georgia’s oldest plantation, established in the 1730s by Noble Jones, one of the first settlers to arrive from England, and again is a story blending entrepreneurial vision and the bitter legacy of slavery. The long avenue leading to the house is under a canopy of arching live oak trees, planted to celebrate the birth of a child. And it’s a postcard shot in any season.

Just 18 miles away from Savannah proper is Tybee Island (tybeeisland.com).

With wide beach and a long pier, Tybee is the place to go for some fun in the sun and a day on the beach. P

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May 2018

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By Dan Webster

For me, the magic of Stockholm peaked at six in the evening.

But … we’ll get to that in a minute. First, I want to mention the one problem I have with cruise-ship travel. Which is this: You typically don’t get a chance to fully explore the cities you visit.

That certainly was the case with our summer visit to Stockholm, a city I long had dreamed of seeing. We’d arrived in the Swedish capital early in the morning and were set to sail that evening, which meant that we had maybe 12 hours to experience what turned out to be my favorite stop of our Baltic cruise.

Our stay didn’t last that long actually, given the time it took to debark and then re-board in time to for departure. Still, it’s good to know that a half-day can give you at least a feel for a city, especially if you make good decisions.

And my wife is very good at making travel decisions.

It turns out that arriving in Stockholm before full light worked out well because – combined with our reluctance to rise in time for the docking maneuver – it merely delayed what to me would be the day’s biggest thrill. Again, though, more on that later.

Stockholm, in and of itself, offers any number of tourist charms.

Once we left the ship, we jumped on a Hop-On Hop-Off boat tour, which perfectly suits this city of islands. We’ve taken advantage of Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours in cities as diverse as Auckland and Rome, Barcelona and Mexico City, and we’ve enjoyed varying levels of success. Stockholm, though, was our first such excursion by water.

Convenience was the key. We picked up our boat just a few steps away from our cruise ship’s dock, enduring barely any semblance of a wait since tours depart every 20 minutes. The

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boat tour also offered utility, giving us ready access to such must-see sights as Stockholm’s Old Town (or Gamla stan), the Royal Palace, the Vasa Museum and the downtown shopping area.

Even though we could have transferred to buses, we chose to walk as much as we wanted between stops. With a limited time frame, we had to nix anything outside the city center. But that worked out, too. Stockholm has a population of nearly 1 million (in country of just over 9 million), but its center is fairly easy to traverse by foot, and photo ops crop up on virtually every corner.

Consult any travel guide you can find, and you’ll discover what most experts consider to be Stockholm’s most coveted tourist sites. Most of those we saw were congregated in an area I’ve already mentioned: the city’s Old Town. Dating back to the 1200s, the Old Town gives visitors a taste of what the city might have been like eight or more centuries ago. One example is the Stockholm Cathedral, which was built in 1279 and, since 1527, has been a Lutheran church.

Another Old Town attraction is the Royal Palace, an immense, square building that sits on the water’s edge, dates from the 18th century and boasts 600 rooms. If you don’t have a full day or more to spend exploring the palace’s vastness, you can at least watch the 40-minute-long daily changing of the guard ceremony (12:15 p.m. on weekdays, 1:15 p.m. on Sundays).

One highlight for us, though, was the Vasa Museum, which is located due east of Old Town, on the island of Djurgården. This historic museum is a vast warehouse that houses the remains of a giant wooden warship, the Vasa, which sank in 1628 in the middle of Stockholm harbor minutes into its inaugural voyage. Rediscovered in 1956, the wreck became the focus of a massive restoration project – the results of which sit in the

Grรถna Lund Amusement Park May 2018

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museum.

From the Vasa, we walked through the Royal City National Park, past ABBA The Museum (which we avoided because we didn’t want to be humming “Mamma Mia” for the rest of the day), the openair Skansen museum and Gröna Lund amusement park.

All that walking, of course, left us parched. But, then, what would a travel story be without some mention of food and drink? Since we visited in summer, and because Stockholm is such a popular tourist destination, we had to deal with the obligatory crowds. That made it hard to book a table at any of the city’s more exclusive restaurants, even for a mid-day meal.

Stockholm Waterways

But we got lucky. We managed to find seats at a highly rated burger place – aptly called Barrels Burgers & Beer – where I enjoyed the secondbest hamburger of my life (the best was at Molokai Burger, a fast-food eatery on the Hawaiian island of Molokai). The deliciousness mollified me somewhat, considering I ended up paying about $15 for it.

Fries were included, but the beer was extra.

Nothing, we discovered, comes cheap in Stockholm.

Except, ultimately, for the magic we experienced as our cruise ship weighed anchor late that afternoon and navigated its way back through the vast Stockholm archipelago. Covering much of Sweden’s southeast coast, the archipelago comprises some 24,000 islands, through which shipping lanes afford passage for deep-draught vessels between Stockholm and the Baltic Sea. As we sailed along, hour after hour, we saw just how scenic this part of the world is. All that water cradled a collection of seemingly countless treelined islands, many peppered with various-sized settlements. Former residences of farmers and fishers, these communities now are home mostly to vacation-cottage owners and the occasional boutique hotel.

The Vasa Museum

And as I witnessed all this standing along the top rail of our 16-deck cruise ship, as the sun slowly set and the lights of Stockholm gradually faded from view, I had only one thought.

This place is calling me back. And next time, I’m definitely going to stay longer. P Photos by Mary Pat Treuthart 42

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P

Saltsjökuan Dristrict

Visit Spokane

Photo courtesy of Visit Spokane

“Hello, Dolly!”

May 18 - June 10 Spokane Civic Theatre, Spokane spokanecivictheatre.com

By Renée Sande

Listen closely these days and you may hear a faint buzzing sound around Spokane.

And I don’t mean of the flying insect kind. Rather it’s the abundance of activity happening all around us, collectively saying, “Get out! Come play! There’s plenty of summer fun to be had!”

In Spokane and North Idaho, the fun continues all summer long with something for everyone, including culinary delights, nightlife, culture and the great outdoors.

Take a front-row seat to the beloved tale of Dolly Gallagher-Levi, the brassy and charismatic matchmaker who turns heads and hearts in turn-of-the-century New York. The romantic and comic exploits of Dolly and a heartwarming cast of characters have delighted audiences time and time again.

Arbor Crest Summer Concert Series Sundays and Thursdays, May 19 - Sept. 30, 5:30 p.m.

Arbor Crest Cliff House, Spokane arborcrest.com

Nothing says summer like the return of summer concerts at Arbor Crest! This award-winning winery is the site of remarkable events and legendary concerts – all from a cliff-top setting that will take your breath away!

May 2018

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An Acoustic Evening with Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness & Friends May 20, 7 p.m.

The Bing Crosby Theater, Spokane bingcrosbytheater.com

Enjoy an acoustic evening featuring a stellar line-up with Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, including Allen Stone, Zac Clark & Bob Oxblood (of Jack’s Mannequin). The Bing is one of Spokane’s oldest and finest performance venues, named after local crooner Bing Crosby.

American Heroes Weekend May 26 - 28 Silverwood Theme Park, Athol silverwoodthemePark.com

Give a salute to service! For the Memorial Day weekend, military personnel, veterans, police officers and firefighters (identification required) receive free admission to the North Idaho amusement and water park, with discounted prices for immediate family members.

Tickets must be purchased at front gate.

Stache Dash June 2, 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Liberty Lake Pavilion Park, Liberty Lake elevationsspokane.org

Sport your ’stache for a great cause! This 5K family fun run/walk along the lake supports Elevations, a local nonprofit to help special needs children, ages 0-18, with financial aid for therapy and or/therapy equipment. Runners, walkers, wheelchairs and strollers welcome.

ArtFest June 1 - 3 Coeur D’Alene Park, Spokane northwestmuseum.org

The Northwest Museum of Arts & Cultures hosts the 33rd annual outdoor festival of art, music, food and community in Browne’s Addition. Spend an afternoon browsing among the works of 150 juried art vendors with paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, jewelry and more, and stick around for an evening of live music from a variety of Northwest musicians.

Spokane Hoopfest June 30 - July 1 Downtown Spokane spokanehoopfest.net

Welcome to the largest 3-on-3 outdoor basketball tournament on earth.

Over 6,000 teams, 3,000 volunteers, 225,000 fans and 450 courts across 45 city blocks for this mega Spokane event! The Bastketball Tournament Alumni Game is now part of Hoopfest and will consist of 4 teams, 3 games, 2 days and 1 winner, with the chance to win $2 million!

“Heathers” July 6 - 22 Lake City Playhouse, Coeur d’Alene lakecityplayhouse.org

Based on the 1988 cult film of the same name, “Heathers” explores Westerburgh High School’s dangerously competitive social hierarchy, which is ruled by Heather, Heather, and Heather – the hottest and cruelest girls in all of Ohio. This popular dark-comedy, rock-musical is rich in macabre humor.

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Crave Northwest July 12 - 15 CenterPlace Regional Event Center, Spokane Valley cravenw.com

Celebrate the taste of the Pacific Northwest! Interact directly with chefs, exhibitors and culinary professionals through tastings, culinary events and presentations. Highlights include a Grand Tasting, Foods from around the World, Seafood Bash, Fire & Smoke Fare and Sunday Brunch.

Great Spokane Road Rally July 14, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Honor Point Military & Aerospace Museum, Felts Field spokaneroadrally.com

It’s Amazing-Race-meets-golf-scramble on wheels. Start your adventure with your race “passport” of cryptic instructions on where to find your “Pit Stops” (race challenges) 1-9. It’s all fun and games with little to no physical challenge, so enjoy the ride and support Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels. Afterwards, enjoy the Valve Cover Races, a social hour, silent auction and BBQ dinner.

From the Ashes July 14, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Settlers’ Creek, Coeur d’Alene fromtheashesidaho.com

Summertime is barbeque time! From the Ashes: An American Smoked and Fired Foods Adventure welcomes nationally-recognized pitmasters from Louisiana, North Carolina, New Mexico and Idaho to showcase 2-3 featured primal proteins and specialty side dishes, using custom-built , wood-fired culinary equipment.

Brad Paisley July 27, 7:30 p.m.

Northern Quest Resort & Casino, Airway Heights northernquest.com

Three Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, 15 Academy of Country Music Awards and 14 Country Music Association Awards, this country music singer/songwriter is loved by fans from all genres. With special guest Brown & Gray.

Gleason Fest Aug. 11, 3 - 11 p.m.

Riverfront Park, Spokane gleasonfest.org

The annual summer music festival benefits the Gleason Initiative Foundation, established by Spokane native and retired NFL player Steve Gleason, which provides life-improving technology and services to individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and promotes global awareness of the disease. Live music, great food, a beer garden sponsored by Full Sail Brewing Company awaits you.

Brewsfest Aug. 18, 1 - 5:30 p.m.

Silver Mountain, Kellogg silvermt.com

The ride up Silver Mountain’s gondola to the mountain-top venue is just the start of the fun. At the top, you’ll find 44 beers and 16 ciders from 22 breweries and eight cideries, and live music to enjoy all afternoon.

You can also pair your ticket with a Bike Park Ticket, and season pass holders can add a Brewsfest ticket for $17.

FOOD

To a Tea

By Sarah Bain

It’s that time of year when daylight begins to stretch out the days, the rains begin to subside, and yet there can still be a chill in the air. Graduation invitations have been sent out, strollers have been dusted off, and families are starting to get back out into their gardens while the ground is still damp but not too wet.

There is no better time than late spring to think about taking an afternoon off to enjoy a cup of tea along with a variety of scones, tea sandwiches and other treats with a few of your closest friends or visiting relatives.

This great British custom of afternoon tea is a fun and too often overlooked tradition that can be enjoyed by all members of the family. And, with a royal wedding on the horizon for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, along with the arrival of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge’s third child, what better time to explore your options for afternoon tea excursions in the Inland Northwest?

Afternoon tea is a great way to celebrate an anniversary or engagement, a baby or bridal shower or to just spend an afternoon with close friends. Consider a proper English tea service for a birthday or graduation party, a book club gathering or a treat for dad on Father’s Day. Here are some of the best places in the region to enjoy afternoon tea: Brambleberry Cottage and Tea Shoppe is located on the east end of downtown Spokane and serves tea Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their gluten-free options are a favorite among regulars and the service and atmosphere goes above and beyond. They offer a variety of menus along with a special children’s birthday tea that is sure to delight a young lady or gentleman and their friends.

Guests can be seated indoors or on the cottage porch when the weather is pleasant.

Heavenly Special Teas is a tea shop and café located on Market Street in the Hillyard historic business district amongst the antique stores and markets. With more than 100 different Photo courtesy of Brambleberry Cottage & Tea Shoppe May 2018

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Photo courtesy of Silver Spoon Tea House Photo courtesy of Carrie Allen Photography.

teas and a full breakfast and lunch menu, this shop offers more than just high tea. Reservations should be made ahead of time for tea between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. This shop also hosts regular events, like “Tea 101” if you’d like to learn how to brew tea properly, and a “Teddy Bear Dessert Tea” that children can enjoy with their stuffed friends.

In Coeur d’Alene, at The Roosevelt Inn, a special afternoon tea is served on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. by reservation only. With an array of sandwiches, fruits, scones and desserts, you can be certain to leave satiated and transported. This special afternoon is said to be a favorite among hotel guests, so consider extending your reservation to the hotel, which was 4-room school house from 1905 to 1972, and make a night of it.

The Silver Spoon Tea House is a beautiful Queen Anne historic home on the lower South Hill that offers a variety of menus and accommodates all kinds of dietary restrictions They also host special tea parties for annual events like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Christmas. High Tea is served by reservation only, Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. They also feature a patisserie and tea shop, which is open for walk-ins from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. With three different menus to choose from and a beautiful historic setting, be prepared to be taken back in time. P

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For more information, please reach out to each teahouse directly. All reservations should be made in advance.

Brambleberry Cottage 206 E. Pacific Ave., Spokane (509) 926-3293, brambleberrycottage.com Heavenly Special Teas 5012 N. Market St., Spokane (509) 487-2111 heavenlyspecialteas.com The Roosevelt Inn 105 E. Wallace Ave., Coeur d’Alene (208) 765-5200 therooseveltinn.com Silver Spoon Tea House 1427 W. 6th Ave., Spokane (509) 981-4491 silverspoonteahouse.com/

Artfully crafted authentic Chinese cuisine in Traditional, Modern and Szechuan styles.

Cook Like a Pro

By Renée Sande

Do your aspirations include cooking the perfect poached egg or perhaps mastering the complex clarification process required to make consommé?

Or maybe you just want to make good food and look good while doing it?

Whatever your goals are in the kitchen, if they include whipping up some culinary magic, make sure to stock your arsenal with these favorite chef tools. You’ll not only look like a pro, but will hopefully cook like one too.

Jill Santopietro, a cooking instructor and recipe developer who has tested recipes for superstar chefs like Michael Pollen and April Bloomfield says investing in a good set of tools can make life in the kitchen much easier.

“It’s like driving a Nissan versus a Maserati,” said Santopietro in an interview on MentalFloss.com.

“Having better tools makes cooking a more enjoyable experience … it makes it fun.”

So if you don’t already have these culinary gadgets at your disposal, it may be time to go shopping.

Chef Lu’s Asian Bistro 2915 E 29th Ave, Ste D | Spokane, WA (509) 443-3871 | luasianbistro.com

Sun-Thurs 11AM-9PM | Fri-Sat 11AM-10PM Takeout Available

Mortar & Pestle

For out-of-this-world flavor – think pesto, curry paste, guacamole, flavored salts – a mortar and pestle is a kitchen must-have. Used since ancient times, this rudimentary tool and just a bit of elbow grease can take your dish from 0 to 60 in seconds.

The difference between using a food processor or spice grinder and a mortar and pestle is the technique.

Rather than cutting the ingredients with blades, a mortar and pestle crushes the ingredient(s), thus expelling all the essential oils, full-bodied flavors and unique body.

Since plants are made of rigid, boxy structures that trap vital flavor inside, you need to rupture them to release that flavor.

TIME WELL SPENT

EVERY THURSDAY & SUNDAY

Plus, appliance motors generate heat, which can degrade and mute bright, bold flavors. And if a recipe calls for May 2018

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a single tablespoon of freshly ground cumin, an appliance is simply not efficient.

While mortar and pestle sets come in a variety of materials, including wood, glass, granite and marble, marble is often a favorite as it holds up well and can be cleaned easily.

Vitamix

The mother of all blenders – the Vitamix is what you need for wickedquick, thoroughly blended ingredients.

While there are many much more affordable blenders out there, the Vitamix is a tried-and-true, superefficient tool to help you in the kitchen.

From touch greens to sticky dough, nuts to whole fruits and vegetables, the 2-horsepower device moves so quickly that it can puree your soup and use friction to heat it up at the same time.

Think green smoothies, pestos, aioli and even baby food.

Wooden Spoon

It may sound simple but often simple is where it’s at.

Wood feels good in the hand, and when something feels good, it just makes the whole experience better.

Why? It’s classic, it’s strong, but it’s also yielding at the same time. And it won’t scratch your pans like metal or melt like plastic.

In addition to round-edge wooden spoons, keep a couple square-edge on hand as they’re good for scraping the bottom of a pan when making certain dishes.

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Digital scale

If you’re looking to make the perfect cup of coffee, a digital scale is your best friend.

Most of us know it’s an excruciatingly fine line between an okay cup of coffee and the perfect cup. If you use a digital scale to weigh out your beans, you can rejoice in a consistent cup of great coffee to start your day, every day.

A digital scale can also lead to juicier burgers and perfect cakes as well.

Some dishes just require very close attention to precise measurement.

Use a scale to weigh your ground beef before making each patty and your cake batter before popping into the oven, and you’ll probably wonder why you waited so long to purchase one.

Cast Iron Skillet

A tool professionals swear by, a cast iron skillet will last a lifetime with proper care, and the more you use it the more it develops layers of flavor-imparting seasoning.

Pepper Mill

A pepper mill is an essential tool for any serious home cook.

Anything freshly ground is better than not and pepper is no exception — it lends a distinctive texture and spice that the store-bought pre-ground pepper can’t imitate.

Spider

Though it may sound exactly like what you don’t want in your kitchen, the spider tool is as useful in the kitchen as a knife.

Traditionally used in Asian cooking, this utensil consists of a wire-mesh basket on the end of a long bamboo handle and is used to retrieve fried dumplings, vegetables and pasta from hot oil or water.

Its wide, shallow shape makes it gentle on delicate foods like ravioli and poached eggs, and the long bamboo handle protects chefs from splashes of spitting-hot oil. P

Ideal for searing steaks or pan-frying vegetables due to its capacity to get extremely hot, a cast iron skillet also distributes heat evenly, which is especially important when cooking meat.

And it’s not just for the stove-top – it can be used in the oven just as brilliantly for dishes such as baked pasta or bread pudding.

Cedar-planked Salmon

By Adriana Janovich Originally printed in The Spokesman-Review

There’s no salmon like cedar-planked salmon.

Incredibly moist, tender and perfumed with woodsy and smoky flavors, it might be my favorite way to enjoy this staple of the Pacific Northwest.

The simple and elegant technique is rooted in the tradition of Pacific coastal tribes, which would cook and smoke their fish and seafood by tying it to wooden boards placed near an open fire.

The cedar plank protects the fish from the heat of the grill, helping ensure the flaky, lush flesh won’t be overcooked. The result is savory and aromatic, combining the cedar scent from the plank with the smokiness from the grill.

Along with cedar-planked salmon, this recipe, developed by Safeway’s executive chef Jeff Anderson, features quinoa and a single Safeway Farms Kale Cranberry Pecan Chopped Salad kit.

A good, gluten-free source of protein, iron and fiber, quinoa pearls are about the same size as their couscous counterparts.

A thorough rinsing before cooking helps keep the delicate grains from tasting slightly bitter.

If you don’t have – or want to buy – the pre-packaged salad mix, which comes with pre-made dressing, there’s an adaptation for a similar recipe below as well as instructions for making your own, similar, country-style Dijon dressing.

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Cedar Planked Salmon with Quinoa and Grilled Kale CampďŹ re Packet

Recipe by Chef Jeff Anderson, executive chef of Safeway Culinary Kitchens, courtesy of Safeway

2 skinless salmon fillets (8 ounces each) 1 large cedar plank 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for fish pinch kosher salt pinch freshly ground black pepper Kale Cranberry Pecan Salad, plus dressing (see note) 1 cup cooked quinoa 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for dressing salad Soak cedar plank for 45 to 60 minutes before cooking salmon. Prepare a medium-heat fire using charcoal or gas.

To prepare campfire packet, place one piece of aluminum foil, 16 inches long, onto work surface and cross second, same-sized sheet on top of the first. Place kale cranberry salad into center of foil, dress with salad dressing, and top with cooked quinoa and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Fold the foil over the top of the salad-quinoa mixture to seal the packet. Put packet onto grill and allow to cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning over occasionally to allow for thorough heating. Remove from fire and let sit for 3 to 4 minutes to allow for thorough steaming.

Dress salmon with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt and pepper. Place cedar plank onto the grill and place salmon onto plank; cover grill and allow salmon to cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Transfer ingredients of campfire kale-quinoa packet onto larger serving platter; remove salmon from grill and transfer directly onto kalequinoa mixture.

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Kale Cranberry Pecan Salad Adapted from lindawagner.net and safeway.com

1 cup torn kale 1/2 cup shredded cabbage 1/2 cup shredded radicchio 1/2 cup broccoli, finely chopped 1/2 cup slivered carrots 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/2 cup candied pecans 1/2 cup herbed seasoned croutons Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Dress with Country Dijon-Style Mustard Dressing.

Country Dijon-Style Mustard Dressing From www.cooksrecipes.com

2 tablespoons brown, white or yellow mustard seed 1/4 cup powdered mustard 1/4 cup dry white wine or water 1 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, or to taste Place mustard seed into a spice or coffee grinder and grind to desired texture. Combine the ground seeds with the powdered mustard; stir in the wine or water and let sit for 10 minutes. Stir in the vinegar and salt and mix well. Place mustard in a clean jar and allow to set at room temperature overnight, then refrigerate for several days to two weeks before using to allow the flavors to ripen.

Yield: 1 cup Note: For variations on flavor, try adding any one or a combination of the following ingredients to the mustard: 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon dried tarragon leaves, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Or, substitute the dry white wine with beer that has been allow to go flat and is at room temperature.

Order Tickets Online:

www.svsummertheatre.com

Into the Woods

Stephen Sondheim James Lapine

Music and lyrics by Book by

July 25 ONE NIGHT ONLY!

July 13 – 29 Directed by

Special Fundraiser Event

7:30 P.M. Directed by

Yvonne A.K. Johnson

Yvonne A.K. Johnson

Music Direction by

Music Direction by

David Brewster

David Brewster

at Central Valley Performing Arts Center Evening Show Time: 7:30 P.M.

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Sunday Show Time: 2:00 P.M.

509-368-7897 • 821 S. Sullivan Rd, Spokane Valley State-of-the-art theatre • Free parking

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Platinum®

Serving Spokane and Coeur d’Alene

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