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Electricity is such an essential part of our lives that it’s easy to forget how powerful it is. Like any tool, electricity must be handled carefully. It’s mighty, and we need to have a deep abiding respect for that power.

Even if you’re a seasoned homeowner, you need to give your home the occasional electrical checkup to ensure that your wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, and plugs are in good working order and are used safely. Regular safety check ups can save you time, money, and keep your home accident-free.

This article will explain why electrical equipment maintenance matters for your home’s safety and what you should do to keep your house secure.

Some essential safety tips

Accident prevention is a crucial element of proper maintenance. Most of the electricity-related accidents in homes happen due to a lack of knowledge of electrical safety and know-how. Here are some tips to prevent accidents and electrical oversights:

Make sure that all electrical equipment is in proper working condition.
Always switch off the main power during major electrical maintenance activities.
Check all the outlets in the house occasionally – warm or hot outlets signal trouble.
Always have a fire extinguisher handy in the house. Never use water to put out any electric fire, no matter how small.
Do not use extension cords as a permanent source of power. Also, don’t leave extension cords plugged in if they’re not in use, as they can create an electrical or fire hazard. Lastly, when outside, only use cables (and items) that are labeled for outdoor use.
Avoid overloading a single outlet. Outlets are made to put out a certain amount of energy. Multiple high-wattage appliances plugged into the same outlet can be very unsafe.
In case of any doubt, seek the help of an expert. Always reach out to a well-trained electrician if an issue seems to need professional intervention.

What you can do to keep your house safe

If you want to maintain your home’s electrical system properly, here are a few tips and tricks that are going to help you work smarter:

Replace old and damaged wires

In older homes, in particular, it is essential to check your power outlets regularly. Search for rayed or burnt wires. Note anything that looks out of place. If there are damaged wires, you should replace them. Don’t try to cut costs by repairing these wires. You can call an electrician to help you.

Don’t try to save money on electrical parts

When it comes to home electrical systems, you get what you pay for. One of the ways manufacturers lower prices is by lowering quality. This can be a problem because lower quality parts will wear out faster—the best way to avoid this problem is to buy higher quality products. When you go purchasing electrical components, read reviews online to see if they have any known issues.

Check the product description for the quality of materials used in assembly. Remember, a one-time investment can save you loads of money in the long run; for example, you could replace incandescent bulbs in your home with LEDs.

Know which appliances are power-hungry

Toasters, microwaves, toaster ovens, and other appliances should have their own outlet because they draw a lot of power. If multiple devices are plugged into the same outlet, you may trip your breaker.

Another important thing when dealing with outlets is where you are plugging in your electronics. For example, if you are in the kitchen, keep your appliances away from the sink. Overall, water and electricity don’t mix, so unplug any appliance before washing or wiping it down.

Ensure all your devices are correctly grounded

A circuit consists of wires transporting electrical current to your lights and appliances, so properly grounded wiring is connected to a ground wire in your home. All outlets near wet locations such as kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms should be equipped with Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).

Pay attention to plugs

Replace all plugs that wobble or fit loosely in the socket. Also, never force a plug into a socket, and never attempt to adjust a plug’s metal prongs to make it work. Doing this is extremely dangerous.

Stay away from heat

Make sure all plugs and cords are kept a safe distance from heat sources such as radiators or space heaters. Don’t place furniture on top of cables, and don’t run cords under rugs or blankets. Avoid any potential source of overheating or damage.

Know what you cannot do on your own

Any indication of dimming lights, flickering lights, a sizzling sound, or a burning odor demands a quick, professional investigation. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.

Electrical maintenance and home safety

You should regularly carry out electrical maintenance and keep all the electrical material fittings, appliances, and devices in and around your home in excellent working conditions. If in doubt, reach out to a Tacoma Electrician like Tapps Electric.

Doing so will ensure the smooth running of all the electricity-powered items in your home while creating a safe environment free from all sorts of hazards.

Regular electrical safety check ups make it possible to avoid unplanned and often very high costs of repairing or even replacing badly affected electrical devices. They are an easy way to discover small problems early before they turn into significant issues.

Proper and timely maintenance of critical electrical components of a home ensures that safety is not only achieved in multiple ways but also upheld.

Conclusion

In our homes, electricity is one of the most valuable assets. But, it can also quickly become hazardous if you do not provide it with proper care.

Hire a professional electrician annually to check your electrical systems, just as you would get a checkup for your health. A licensed electrician can inspect your electrical panel, tighten any wires that need it, and even use an infrared tester to identify which circuit breakers are getting too hot in the fuse box. This keeps your electrical system working efficiently and gives you peace of mind about the safety of your home.

A quality stone patio will completely transform the look of your garden. It can boost your home’s curb appeal as well as market value. But laying a stone patio is no small endeavour, so it’s important to avoid costly mistakes.

Your new patio will truly complement your home only if you choose the right stone. Considering how many variables are at play, this can get difficult.

There are a few important considerations you need to be aware of before you make your choice, so let’s get you up to speed.

Manufactured vs Natural Stone

Manufactured stone, also known as veneer stone, is man-made stone that is meant to look like natural stone. Natural stone is of better quality than manufactured stone.

Natural stone is not as susceptible to moss and lichen growth as manufactured stone, and it keeps its good looks for longer. While manufactured stone slabs are more affordable than natural stone slabs, manufacturer stone is usually weaker and thinner.

Natural stone will become slightly darker over time, but many will argue that the patina it acquires is an improvement on its original appearance. The colour of manufactured stone, on the other hand, fades with age.

However, manufactured stone is easier to cut, easier to obtain, and the quality is more predictable. It also comes in a wider variety of colours.

If you are on a tight budget, good-quality veneer could be the better choice. Keep in mind that the cost of labour significantly outweighs the cost of all the materials.

Choosing Your Supplier

If you want to go with natural stone, chances are, the best natural stone for your patio is the one that is sourced locally. Why? Because it is the natural match for your geography. Mother Nature is often the best landscape designer.

Think about Irish Limestone, Pennsylvania Fieldstone, or granite from Cornwall. Stone is one of the factors that give an area distinctiveness.

Try to use the same stone you see in walls, churches, old gardens, and historic buildings around you. If that’s not an option, try to find a type of stone that mimics the geological type and colour of local stone.

On that note, if you are considering buying stone paving slabs for your patio online, consider ordering some samples first. Stones often look different in reality than they do in photos. The best way to make sure the stone you are considering buying will fit in with your own environment is to actually bring it there.

The Size and Shape of Your Patio Paver Stone

One thing is for sure—you want to get the thickest slabs you can afford. The thicker the slabs are, the less chance they will crack or lift after frost.

In order to keep things to scale, choose large slabs if you want to build a large patio. If your garden is small and you plan to build a smaller patio, smaller slabs are a better choice. They will make the area look bigger than it really is.

Cleanly cut slabs offer a more contemporary feel. Cut stone typically comes in rectangular or square shapes. Cut slabs usually have square edges and smooth faces.

If you are going for a more rustic look, flagstone is a great choice. Flagstone is any type of natural stone that comes in irregular and uneven pieces. The unforced and natural look of flagstone paving can give your patio more character.

Best Types of Natural Stone For an Outdoor Patio

Bluestone

There’s a good reason why bluestone has been a staple in patio construction for decades. It brings its surroundings closer to nature while still offering a sense of elegance and luxury.

Don’t let the name deceive you. This type of stone comes in a variety of colours, ranging from green to brown tones. Regardless of the style or cut of bluestone, the smooth blend of colouring is always astounding.

Bluestone is extremely resistant to freeze-thaw cycles, and it has a high non-slip rating. This makes it one of the best choices for poolside patios.

Bluestone comes in all shapes in sizes, from large rectangular slabs to small diamond-shaped pieces. If you want to retain the natural colours and beauty of your bluestone patio, you will have to seal it periodically.

Limestone

Subtly elegant and extremely reliable, limestone has always been a popular choice for patios. It is available in many textural options and shades. It comes in sandblasted, tumbled, or smooth finishes.

Limestone is typically cut to rectangular and square shapes and laid in running bond, herringbone, or basket weave patterns. It can also be a great choice for flagstone paving.

Limestone stays cool in the summer because its light colour deflects heat. However, it does have one drawback. Limestone doesn’t like acidic materials. Falling fruits can easily stain it and chemical cleaners may erode it.

Granite

Granite is a great choice if you want a smooth patio with a high-end finish and neat, straight edges. However, even though it’s a popular choice for sleek and modern-looking patios, it’s also a solid option if you want to go for a more traditional look.

Since it comes in all shapes, sizes, and finishes, it offers a wealth of design opportunities. Available colours include grey, white, pink, deep charcoal, and many more.

Granite is highly durable. It will withstand harsh weather and heavy traffic. It has a long life and is very low-maintenance. You only need to rinse it or pressure wash it from time to time. The only downside of granite is its costly price.

Indian Sandstone

If you are looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality option for your outdoor patio, Indian sandstone is an excellent choice. Sandstone is naturally slip-resistant and weather-resistant. This makes it a very popular choice for wet climates.

Just like the shades of sand, colours of sandstone range from neutral to vibrant tones. You can choose from subtle beiges to dark browns, from rich reds and bright golds—and anything in between.

Sandstone is easy to maintain and it isn’t afraid of pressure washing. However, it is more prone to dents and scratches than other types of natural stone.

A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking

Hiking is such a great way to stay in shape, spend much more time outdoors and enjoy the freedom of being immersed in nature.

If you’ve never been hiking before or you have very limited experience when it comes to knowing what to expect, check out the beginner’s guide to hiking below.

Proper Gear and Clothing are a Must

Ensuring that you’re fully equipped with the correct gear and clothing is essential to the success of your hiking expedition.

You will need to invest in some quality hiking boots that will make walking as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. You don’t need to spend a fortune on new hiking boots, but you do need to make sure that they’re well-fitting and won’t rub your feet as soon as you set off.

Well-chosen clothing is also imperative when it comes to hiking. Equip yourself with suitable walking trousers, waterproof outer layers and plenty of sunscreen.

You may also want to purchase walking poles or sticks to help you on long and arduous hikes; these are especially beneficial for uphill hikes.

Training Beforehand – Is it Necessary?

Training for a hike can come in many different forms. For example, you may already be in peak physical shape but if you’ve just purchased some new hiking boots, you’ll need to break them in and get used to hiking in your new footwear.

On the other hand, if you’re already well equipped with the right gear but you haven’t exercised in a long time, you’ll need to think about getting in some training before you go hiking.

Start by working on a beginner’s workout and gradually build up your fitness levels until you feel well-prepared to embark on a long and tiring hike. Even the most expert hikers still get tired and struggle to face some hiking routes, so it’s an activity that you need to constantly work on and improve.

Choose a Suitable Hiking Route

Choosing a suitable hiking route is another important tip to bear in mind when hiking as a beginner. You may think that you’re well prepared and equipped with all the necessary gear and your fitness is in top shape but hiking can still throw unexpected curveballs at you.

It’s a good idea to start relatively small and easy when it comes to choosing a hiking route and then you can gradually build up to much more difficult and testing routes.

There’s no rush or competition when it comes to hiking so as long as you’re enjoying yourself and getting something rewarding out of the experience, don’t worry what kind of ‘hiking level’ you’re at.

Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks

As well as being equipped with the correct gear and clothing, you also need to ensure that your day pack contains plenty of water and snacks to help make your hike as easy and enjoyable as possible.

While hiking might not be as tiring as running or biking for example, you’ll still get tired so you need to keep yourself hydrated and energized at all times.

If you’ll be embarking on a long hike, you will also need to replenish your food supplies so always have snacks such as energy bars, protein shakes or nuts and seeds on you in case you need an energy boost.

Enjoy Every Moment

Hiking doesn’t have to be a monotonous, unenjoyable activity, on the contrary; it should be fun and interactive, as well as enjoyable, and you should only ever do it if and when you want to.

In order to do that, you need to ensure that you enjoy every moment and capture as many things as you can on camera so that you never forget your experiences.

While, of course, your main priority should be the hike itself, it doesn’t mean that you can’t occasionally stop and look around. Consider bringing a camera, or at least just your phone so that you can take pictures of any wildlife you may encounter as well as to take those inevitable celebratory selfies when you hit a particular milestone!

Conclusion – a Beginner’s Guide to Hiking

Hiking is such a fun and enjoyable hobby to be into. Whether you’re hiking for fun on weekends around your local park, or you want to push your limits a bit more and take part in a more strenuous hike along the Camino de Santiago for example, you still need to bear a few things in mind.

Ensure you’re well equipped, have proper clothing such as boots, waterproof wear and walking poles. Always bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up when you’re embarking on long hiking routes.

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Kevin has gone through an extensive home renovation with his son, which he has both thoroughly enjoyed, and dreaded every morning. He is now the proud owner of half his dream house (the other half has been waiting for spring). You can read more of Kevin’s work on PlainHelp.

Spokane is well known for its laid-back attitude and expansive outdoor lifestyle. But, what goes on once the sun goes down doesn’t get nearly enough credit.

No matter your style for evening fun, you’ll find what you’re looking for right here in Spokane. From upbeat dance clubs to music festivals set in the mountains to daily live entertainment, Spokane is your go-to for nighttime fun.

Whether you’re a life-long resident, a college kid, or in town for a visit, you won’t want to miss these destinations. Here’s where to go to experience the Spokane nightlife.

Zola

This trendy bar and lounge offer more live entertainment than most in town. You can find a new act here 7 nights a week while enjoying decadent craft cocktails and a great selections of beer.

Zola is great for those special occasions like a graduation, birthday, or proposal. It’s a spot for those who want to do more than just talk over beers. Instead, residents typically come here to get down on its expansive dance floor. Great spot for friends and a fun night out.

nYne Bar and Bistro

Few establishments excel at bringing together such a diverse group of people as nYne. This downtown spot calls itself an “equality bar” as it attracts just about anyone who wants to dance, including the occasional drag queen show.

You can find a mix of both house bands and in-house DJs here on the weekends. Fuel up here before a big night out with their lively venue serving pub grub and burgers.

The Unforgiven Lounge

This swanky lounge/bar is just as well known for its fun food menu as it is its nightlife scene. Their bar boasts a lot of classic martini favorites, that can be sipped on inside or on the outdoor patio. The BBQ ribs and baked potato were a hit with our group!

The Unforgiven Lounge is in eastern Washington, but it feels like it belongs on the Las Vegas strip. From the liquor tower to the Chrome decor and colorful lighting, we guarantee you’ll have fun. This is a great place for dancing and partying with friends!

Volstead Act

Craft cocktail lovers, rejoice. Volstead Act is heaven for anyone who appreciates a modern spin on the prohibition era style.

This lounge offers a daily happy hour that runs from 3 pm-7 pm and 12 am-2 am Monday through Saturday. But, its all-day-long Sunday happy hour makes it the perfect place to get your Sunday Funday on.

The Viking

If you’re in need of a no-frills, cozy night, look no further than The Viking in downtown Spokane. This timeless dive has been a local hangout for over 2 decades.

The Viking recently underwent a major renovation, leaving it with more elevated indoor seating and an outdoor patio. Its beer list is quite extensive, so whether you’re a Budweiser type of guy/girl or a craft lover, you’re covered.

More on Spokane Nightlife

This city is far more than just its outdoors scene. Spokane nightlife gives you a taste of what else we have to offer.

Looking for things to do in Spokane? Look no further! The Clever Neighbor has all your needs covered for a visit to the Lilac City. And, while you’re here, check out some other cities to visit as well!

If you’re visiting Portland, you should know that this is a city that’s home to some of the best breweries in the entire country. With a population of only 652,000, Portland still takes the prize from some of the biggest cities in terms of microbreweries and local watering holes.

Among the many fun things to do during your stay in Portland, a guide to the best Portland breweries is necessary. There are so many breweries to visit, it might just require you to extend your trip (or at least rely on your Lyft/Uber app to get you around).

In no particular order, here are some of the best breweries to visit in Portland.

Ex Novo

Ex Novo makes the list after opening in 2014 because of what it stands for. Not only do their beers rotate often and flow liberally, but they also give back to local charities. In fact, 100% of the profits made from their tasty libations get poured into (pun intended) local charities.

Their motto is ‘Drink Beer. Do Good’. What can get better than that? Sounds like a worthwhile activity to complete whilst in Portland, if you ask us.

Deschutes

Deschutes beer has been around for over thirty years, making it one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Portland. With the recent emergence of microbreweries across the USA, you’d think that might make it hard for an older brewery to keep up–but it’s been the exact opposite.

Deschutes likes to experiment, which keeps them hip and their flavors new. Their Portland location has twenty taps and regular tastings of new creations that are (or could be) coming out soon. Of the breweries in Portland, Deschutes is probably the most well known and also one of the best places to visit.

We really like their unique take on pub grub, as they focus primarily on food made from scratch and local produce.

Occidental Brewing Company

In terms of the best breweries in Portland, Occidental Brewing offers another specific type of drinking experience that you wouldn’t expect to find in the Pacific Northwest. Instead of your typical IPA’s, you’ll feel liked you’ve stepped into a Gaststube (pub) in Germany, home of their many German-style ales and lagers, and even an array of bratwursts. From German style Kolsch to Hefeweizen, Dunkel, Pilsner and more.

Occidental has a fantastic patio that makes drinking and eating during the summertime even more fun with friends.

Ground Breaker (Gluten Free)

For the gluten intolerant crowd, and there are more and more of us now, you might think breweries are out of reach or that your brewery map is small or nonexistent.

Well, think again, because Ground Breaker offers an array of drinks that are 100% gluten-free. When you come to Portland, you’ll be welcomed to a place that has won many awards for making beer that tastes just like (or better than) traditional beers. No need to just drink ciders anymore! #ohhappyday

In fact, the owner has won many awards for creating such tasty beer, that they started their commercial brewery and now serve gluten-free pub food as well. It’s a gluten free party! #glutenisbad 🙂

Portland Breweries: Wrap-Up

Portland breweries are a dream come true for most beer drinkers. IPA’s flow like the Columbia River in this riverfront town. When you get here, there are plenty of places you can sit down and have a drink. Whether you’re gluten-free, looking to visit a German beer hall, or want to help local charities, you can achieve nearly any drinking goal in Portland.

Join us for more updates on things to do around Portland. Enjoy your trip!

Everyone loves Italian food. Old and young, 70 percent of people say they eat Italian food as often as once a month.

Italian food is an iconic cuisine that is appetizing to people almost everyone. If you’re a fan of great authentic Italian food, you know the importance of staying up to date with the best places to go. Especially if you’re not on the east coast!

So, here’s a list of the best Italian restaurants in Olympia. Try not to let your mouth water while you read!

The Best Italian Restaurants in Olympia

Pasta, breadsticks, and meatballs; you name it, these restaurants have it.

1. Basilico

This Italian restaurant has one of the most inviting interiors you’ll see in the PNW. With a rustic feel to its food – and its decorating – you’ll feel like you’re sitting in old world Italy.

Their menu features a long list of fine red or white wines for anyone’s palate. They also feature many other drink selections. The food menu has a terrific selection of appetizers, entrees, and pasta plates. If you have trouble deciding on what you want, they also put together tasting menus. But you’ve got to try their homemade pasta.

Our recommendations are the pasta with ground pork and mushrooms in a cream sauce and the eggplant parmesan appetizers. Really quite spectacular dishes.

Some people sometimes feel left out at Italian restaurants because of a gluten intolerance. But that won’t be the case here, because Basilico’s also offers gluten-free options. This is very uncommon in the Italian restaurant world. #glutenfreeforme

2. Casa Mia

When a restaurant earns awards for their food, you know it’s going to be good. Some of the best Italian food comes with a heartfelt backstory, and Casa Mia has that. Recently they were awarded first prize in the “Pizza Across America” contest for their Chicken Pizza, and have twice won Pizza Today International Pizza Recipe Contest.

Our recommendations are the $8 lunch special with their house salad and homemade vinaigrette dressing and minestrone soup.

Between their pizza and pasta menu, your mouth will water reading the descriptions. They’re also able to accommodate a range of dietary needs.

3. Pizzeria La Gitana

If you’re looking for a unique environment with quality food, look no further. This restaurant boasts a kitchen full of imported, organic ingredients.

There are plenty of salads and appetizers on the menu. But the real star is their long, detailed list of pizza. This menu is full of white pizza, pesto pizza, and almost any other type of pizza you can imagine.

Our recommendations are the Italian Classic pizza and a pint of Peroni on tap.

And they even offer delivery for when you’re not feeling up for a night out and a very good gluten free crust.

4. The Mark

If fine dining is a little more your speed, welcome to The Mark. Its rustic, romantic setting is a great place for anniversaries and even birthdays. In fact, they also host other events such as weddings.

Their menu is extensive, offering the classics as well as some new takes. If you visit this restaurant, prepare to leave completely satisfied. Pasta’s, surf and turf, and more will keep you coming back.

Our recommendations are the vodka grapefruit with fresh squeezed organic ruby red grapefruit juice and a grass fed NY steak with green beans for dinner.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert. Tiramisu and chocolate cake are only a few of the delicious, post-dinner items you should try.

Explore Olympia

There’s no doubt you’ll find some of the best Italian restaurants in Olympia. No matter what mood you’re in, there’s a restaurant that fits your pace. Make a list of some of these great places and try them all.

If you’re passing through or have lived in Olympia for a while, you may want to know what there is to do. Read “Top Things to Do in Olympia WA” for lots of great ideas!

Are you a film buff living in Tacoma?

Whether you enjoy watching the latest flicks at a local South Sound movie theater or classic movies at home, you might be curious to learn how many movies were filmed in and around Tacoma.

When you’re not busy enjoying all the fabulous outdoor activities Tacoma has to offer, check out one of these iconic movies that were filmed in the area.

1. 10 Things I Hate About You

Perhaps the most iconic movie filmed in Tacoma (at least for kids of the 90s) was the 1999 hit romantic comedy 10 Things I Hate About You.

A modern-day retelling of Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, the film is best known as Heath Ledger’s breakout role. Funnily enough, he went from an unknown in Hollywood to landing the role after seeing the script from a friend-of-a-friend.

Ledger wooed every teenage girl that year with his song-and-dance routine filmed at Stadium High School’s Stadium Bowl. The school was the backdrop for a majority of the movie, along with a private residence on North Junett Street.

The film launched not only Heath Ledger’s career, but also the careers of Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Gabrielle Union. Talk about being cast in the right film at the right time!

2. Enough

In 2002, the Tacoma area became the filming location for an unconventional thriller: Enough.

Starring Jennifer Lopez and Billy Campbell, the film follows the story of an abused wife who takes her young daughter and flees for their lives. After changing her identity and trying to start over, she soon learns her husband won’t let them go.

Although the film received mixed reviews from critics, most viewers love the final scene of the movie. Jennifer Lopez, after studying a rigorous self-defense course, is able to hold her own in a very physical fight with her vicious ex.

How does the story end? You’ll have to watch it and find out.

3. The Hand That Rocks the Cradle

Another twisted thriller filmed in Tacoma was 1992’s The Hand That Rocks the Cradle.

Starring Rebecca De Mornay and Annabella Sciorra, the story follows a psychopathic nanny hellbent on destroying the family she works for. Suspenseful with plenty of action (and a few well-placed murders), this movie is sure to send a few shivers down your spine.

Most of the movie was filmed in a private home on North Yakima Avenue and nearby Wright Park. Interestingly, the character Michael Bartell gives the home’s real address during a phone call scene in the movie.

4. Stephen King’s Rose Red

Originally scripted as a feature film, Stephen King’s Rose Red was instead turned into a TV miniseries in 2002.

As you’d expect of anything written by Stephen King, the story is an intense supernatural thriller. Set in a haunted mansion called Rose Red, a team of psychics is invited to stay in the house to study its “activity.”

Most of the film was shot in the historic Thornewood Castle on Thorne Lane. Far from a reproduction, the “castle” is actually a 500-year old English manor that was disassembled and shipped to Washington in 1908.

5. I Love You to Death

This little-known 1990 film featured a huge ensemble cast that later went on to bigger (and more famous) productions.

I Love You to Death is a dark comedy starring Kevin Kline, Tracey Ullman, River Phoenix, and Keanu Reeves. It’s loosely based on a real-life attempted murder that occurred in 1983 when a betrayed wife repeatedly tried to kill her womanizing husband.

The film features many iconic scenes around Tacoma, including the historic Bostwick Building on Antique Row. Bob’s Java Jive, Stadium Bowl, and Holy Rosary Church also make appearances in the film.

6. Prefontaine

Even the most devout Jared Leto fans may have missed his 1997 biopic film about long-distance runner Steve Prefontaine.

The story follows the athlete’s rise to fame in the 1972 Olympics held in Munich, Germany. History fans will appreciate the film’s portrayal of the Munich Massacre terrorist attacks that occurred that same year.

Interestingly, Prefontaine became a track star while attending the University of Oregon in Eugene. The filming location for the movie, however, was Tacoma’s own Peyton Field, at the University of Puget Sound.

To make it resemble Hayward Field in the 1970s, Hollywood set designers worked their magic. Even those who have visited the original setting couldn’t tell the difference on film.

7. Say Anything

Cameron Crowe fans will remember his directorial debut film Say Anything from 1989. What they might not remember is that part of the movie was filmed in Tacoma.

The iconic high school romance movie starred a young John Cusack and Ione Skye. Critics and moviegoers alike love it for its realistic dialogue and believable portrayal of high school teens falling in love.

In fact, the film won the #1 spot in Entertainment Weekly’s vote for the greatest modern movie romance.

When you watch it, keep an eye out for Bob’s Java Jive as John Cusack drives his car down South Tacoma Way.

8. Three Fugitives

If you like old-school crime comedies, you’ll love this 1989 flick starring Nick Nolte, Martin Short, and James Earl Jones.

In a comedy of errors, a man just released from prison for armed robbery gets taken hostage by a bumbling bank robber. Throw in a few goofy chase scenes, an accidental shooting, and a vet who thinks he’s a dog, and you’ve got a hilarious take on an untraditional heist flick.

Tacoma filming locations include the McNeil Island Prison, Old City Hall, and the ferry dock at Steilacoom.

Iconic Movies at South Sound Cinema

So, how many of these iconic movies filmed in Tacoma have you seen?

If you missed a few, why not skip a night out and catch up on some of these classic films instead?

Wondering what else is happening in and around Tacoma? Click here for our latest posts about what’s going on in town.

Winter might be the best season to visit Bend. Whether you’re into snowboarding or skiing, the options are obvious with Mt. Bachelor being just a quick jaunt up the Cascade Lakes Highway. Maybe you’ve already experienced the mountain or just have other ventures in mind… Bend will deliver!

Ice Skating

Ice skating is the quintessential winter activity, especially around the holiday season. The Pavilion is Bend’s NHL-sized ice sheet that has open skating, curling lessons, and local hockey league games. Skates can be rented and there are locker rooms on site. Warm up after all your ice-capades with a visit to the warming room. There is a fireplace and an outdoor fire pit to help you enjoy your time off the ice. The Pavilion is home to the Winter Solstice celebration, an event featuring hot cocoa, raffles, photo booth, skate sessions, and performances by the Bend Ice Figure Skating Club. Check out the Pavilion’s schedule of events here.

If you’re interested in taking a little drive, another option for ice skating is available at Seventh Mountain Resort just outside of Bend. Here you will indulge your inner child as you glide around the ice under the cosmic lights, pausing to take a break while sipping a cocktail from the rink-side bar. Make a weekend of it and stay in one of the elegant suites at Seventh Mountain.

Get Outside

There are a myriad of outdoor activities available to Bend visitors in the winter. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and sledding are just some of the things you can get yourself into. If you’re interested in gear rentals, check out Powder House Ski & Snowboard. They will get you set up with everything you need, and they’re conveniently located on your way up to the mountains. Check in with the employees there for guidance regarding trails and permits for your winter fun.

If you’re feeling up for a bit of an adventure, a tour with Wanderlust Tours might be just the ticket. Wanderlust offers moonlight snowshoeing and stargazing excursions as well as their Bonfire on the Snow tour. With this trip, a naturalist will guide you through the forest and into a hand-carved snow amphitheater where a bonfire and drinks will be enjoyed under the gorgeous winter sky. You’ll be able to learn about the forests, wildlife, and do a bit of stargazing while enjoying local spirits and hot drinks. Check out Wanderlust’s winter tours here.

If you prefer to guide your own winter adventure, we’ve done some of the work for you. Click here for our piece on the 7 best hiking trails in Bend.

Mt. Bachelor

It would be remiss to mention wintertime in Bend without bringing up Mt. Bachelor. Mt. Bachelor serves up a winter wonderland for gravity sports enthusiasts. Offering lessons for both adults and kids (as well as childcare if your tot is too young to play on the mountain), Mt. Bachelor is welcoming to seasoned athletes and newcomers. If you’re going to be on the mountain to look for a unique experience, book a sled dog ride! Join an experienced Iditarod racer for an unforgettable trip gliding across the snow, learn about sledding, and take in the epic views of the Cascades. Check out Mt. Bachelor’s website for more details and scheduling.

Winter Fest

The Oregon Winter Fest is an annual tradition that happens in Bend. Featuring 3 days of music, family activities, food, and entertainment, this event is a must-see. There are fire pits, ice sculptures, a wine walk, and hot cocoa run. There is no such thing as bad weather in Bend, just improper clothing! This festival celebrates all things winter and occurs in February each year. The Rail Jam is sponsored by 10 Barrel Brewing and offers participants the chance to shred the rail. Enjoy a stroll through the marketplace or check out the Polar Market sporting goods expo to get your gear for Bend’s recreation. The festival caters to all ages with a family play zone with bounce houses and the OMSI science tent. Winter Fest is a great way to experience everything that Bend has to offer both locals and visitors.

Relax

Maybe you’ve spent all day at the mountain, or trekking through the snow in snowshoes. What better way to treat yourself after a long day of fun than with a nice, hot soak?

McMenamin’s Old St. Francis soaking pool is a sparkling turquoise oasis. With an open ceiling, you can watch the snow fall in to the steamy, glittering soaking pool. Take some time after your soak to venture out to O’Kane’s Pub on the McMenamin’s grounds. O’Kanes has fire pits outside where you can warm up from the inside out with a seasonal cocktail. Head through the old church doors to imbibe the house distillery flights. If you take the time to wander around McMenamin’s, you might stumble upon a broom closet… Push through the unassuming door to discover what’s being served up on the other side!

Perhaps your tastes lean toward the refined, or you just want to experience over 400 varieties of whiskey…Stihl Whiskey Bar has what you’re looking for. Stihl boasts a carefully crafted menu and a vast array of whiskeys and cocktails to suit every need.

You can’t go wrong in the dining arena while strolling around downtown Bend. Check out our article about Bend’s best places to eat and discover your new favorite spot.

The winter season in Bend is a great time to get outside or indulge in some relaxation and luxury. Let us know your favorite winter activities in Bend in the comments below!

The holiday season may be the busiest and most stressful time of the year, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the wonderful festivities and merriment across Olympia!

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift or looking to get into the holiday spirit, check out these great Olympia events you don’t want to miss.

1. Visit Olympia’s Two Biggest Christmas Tree Farms

Don’t have a tree yet? No problem! Add these two stops to your Olympia events calendar.

Visit one of Olympia’s two biggest Christmas tree farms, Schilter Family Farm and Hunter Farms, to pick out the perfect tree. Both farms are locally-owned and operated, so you can feel good about your purchase.

What’s more, each farm offers more than mere Christmas trees. Families can make an evening of their farm trip and enjoy hayrides, visits with Santa, holiday shops, and more.

Schilter Family Farm currently operates from 9 A.M. until dusk each day. Meanwhile, Hunter Farms is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends.

2. Build-Your-Own Gingerbread House

Celebrate the season’s most treasured treat and create your own gingerbread house at the Buckley Library! The event takes place on Friday, Dec. 8 from 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. and runs on a first come, first served basis.

Entry is completely free, and each family can decorate up to two gingerbread houses.

3. Oly on Ice

Ice skating may be a winter tradition, but few rinks are better than Olympia’s first seasonal skating rink Oly on Ice.

The price of general admission is $12, though discounts are available for toddlers, kids up to 10, and groups. Those looking to stuff their wallets as well as their stockings this season can even visit on Cheap Skate Night to enjoy $8 rentals.

Best of all, the fun doesn’t have to stop during the holidays themselves. Oly on Ice is open every day until January 6, including Christmas and New Year’s Day.

4. The Twinklefest Competition

It’s once again time for one of our favorite Olympia, WA events: the annual storefront decorating competition Twinklefest. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever.

But this fun, free event is so much more than a chance to see how creative Olympia’s own can be. It’s also a great opportunity to explore Olympia’s beautiful downtown area.

Check out the finest local restaurants and enjoy great local shops.

5. The Polar Express

Run by the Mountain Rainier Railroad and Logging Museum, The Polar Express brings the magic of one of the most beloved children’s books of all time to life.

Grab your kids-or just feel like a kid yourself-and hop aboard this exciting train.

Aside from seeing the sights, passengers can enjoy onboard refreshments like cookies and hot chocolate as well as entertainment.

Check Out These Olympia Events for a Happy Holiday Season

The the new year fast approaching, it’s time to make the most of 2018’s final month. This list of fun Olympia events has something for everyone, whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart.

Looking for more great things to do around Olympia? Join the Clever Neighbor community and get info on all the latest happenings.

Shi Shi beach is a special Pacific Northwest beach. From looming sea stacks to moody skies you will have the full Washington coast beach camping experience. This hike can suit anyone from the beginner backpacker trying out their overnight pack for the first time to the well seasoned veteran looking for remoteness and ocean energy. With minimal cell reception, a cool sea breeze and an open coastline you will be sure to find peace and quiet at Shi Shi.

photo by Ashley Greenwood — Sea Stacks at Shi Shi Beach.

Things to know about beach camping

Beach camping is unique in that you will be sure to get sand in everything, everywhere… and somehow all of your belongings will end up damp by the end of the trip. That being said, make sure to pack quick dry clothing, warm, wind-breaking layers and a tide chart. It is important to be aware of the tides as well as safe spaces to set up camp to avoid getting in a dangerous situation (e.g. waves crashing in on your tent in the middle of the night) due to a miscalculated high tide. See Washington’s tide chart for the Shi Shi beach area here.

It is possible to have a campfire on the beach as long as there is not a burn ban in effect. The only catch: drift wood is the only option for you, which means no foraging in the woods bordering the beach for downed branches.

Trail description

The hike into Shi Shi to your campsite can be as little as 2.5 miles or as long as 5 miles depending on where you decide to settle in for the night (.5 of those miles comes from the beginning walk to the trailhead from the nearest parking lot). The trail itself is a fairly flat 2 miles from the actual trailhead down to where you are spit out onto the beach. The first half of the hike is a pleasant stroll on a series of elevated boardwalks and wooden bridges inside a dense, old growth forest. The second half of the hike opens up into a newer growth forest with a wide, perpetually muddy trail. Be sure to wear shoes that you are comfortable getting very dirty. Once you have finished stomping through the mud, you are rewarded with your first glance at the Pacific Ocean. Minutes later, you will come to a set of steep stairs bringing you down to the beach. Once at the bottom you are free to continue south to choose a campsite either tucked in the shaded woods or exposed to the elements of the beach. Both are great options!

If you continue hiking on the beach you will come across Petroleum Creek, ironically a great resource for drinkable water, just be sure to filter/boil it. This is about 1.3 miles from the bottom of the stairs. Continue another mile and you will find yourself at the astounding Point of Arches – one of the many gems of the Pacific Northwest. This grouping of sea stacks will be sure to stop you in your tracks as you look up to these peaceful giants surrounded by crashing waves.

Point of Arches

The Point of Arches is a breathtaking sight, even better during sunset. While at Shi Shi beach be sure to take a walk to see the giant sea stacks, perhaps after shedding the backpack and setting up camp for the night. If tide pools or photography are interests of yours, the Point of Arches will not disappoint. While visiting and exploring this part of the beach take caution and be sure to double check the tide charts to ensure that you can safely get back to your campsite. See Washington’s tide chart for the Shi Shi beach area here

Wildlife

Shi Shi beach is full of wildlife. Take a walk to the tide pools to explore the marine ecosystems or continue a walk down either direction on the beach. Look up at the sky and you are likely to see eagles, herons and sea birds. Sea otters, coyotes and seals are also known to frequent Shi Shi beach. If you are lucky you may even have the opportunity to spot migrating whales, so keep an eye out.

The wildlife at Shi Shi is very fun, but it is still wild. Be sure to keep a safe distance! A bear canister is required and can be rented from the Olympic National Park Visitor Center. While a bear encounter may be extremely unlikely, you may find yourself defending your food against other critters like deer, coyotes, eagles and raccoons.

Parking logistics & necessary passes

When visiting Shi Shi beach you will be required to have two different passes.

The first pass you will need is an Olympic Park wilderness permit from the National Parks Service. This can be purchased with your bear canister at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles or Forks.

The second pass you will need is the Makah Recreation Pass. This can be purchased for $10 at the Neah Bay General Store, the Mini Mart, Marina or Museum.

Once you have both passes you will need to find a space to park. The trailhead does not allow for overnight parking so take this into account as you head towards your final destination. On the way to the trailhead there will be a few private properties that allow backpackers to park for a small cost, cash only. The most popular lot/yard happens to be the closest to the trailhead… but still adds .5 miles of cement walking to the trailhead. First timers may want to take the extra minute drive to identify the trailhead, then backtrack to park, just so you know what’s in store.

What else?

If you happen to have a high tolerance for cold water and don’t mind lugging a board in 3 miles, Shi Shi does have a decent surf break. Just make sure you’ve called local shops to get the low down; hint: watch for rocks. Skim boarding, frisbee, and kite flying make for other fun beach entertainment.

Cape Flattery

If you have it in you, one last, quick walk/hike to Cape Flattery will be worth your time. Cape Flattery is the most northern tip of the contiguous United States. While at Cape Flattery you will be sure to experience the expanse and power of the Pacific Ocean. This is also a popular whale watching spot during seasonal migration periods.

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