Weekly Volcano Blogs: Walkie Talkie Blog

Posts made in: April, 2012 (128) Currently Viewing: 121 - 128 of 128

April 29, 2012 at 6:24am

Washington's wine industry is aging just fine

FROM OLYMPIA BUSINESS WATCH...

Washington wine is aging just fine. Earlier this week, the Washington State Wine Commission reported the results of a new economic impact study of the Washington wine industry which is the most comprehensive ever produced.  It contains good news--very good news.

Washington wine is now an $8.6 billion annual business and across the nation, it is a $14.9 billion annual industry. These findings represent a substantial increase from a similar study conducted in 2007 that valued the industry at $3 billion in-state and $4.7 billion nationally.

Since 2005, the number of licensed wineries in Washington State has more than doubled from 360 to now well over 700. The state has also added more than 13,000 acres of vineyards during this time – from just over 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares) in 2005 to more than 43,000 acres (17,000 hectares) today.

SEE THE REST HERE

Filed under: Food & Drink,

April 29, 2012 at 8:07am

Urban hikes we like

The Pacific Northwest has some of the most amazing hikes anywhere, but you don't have to venture out to the Olympic Peninsula to find awesome scenery. Tacoma is a great city to find urban hikes - many with quintessential Northwest scenery and a place to grab a snack or a meal en route.

Narrows Bridge

The second Narrows Bridge was built with a walkway across it. As long as you have no qualms about heights, this is one of the best urban hikes in the entire region. From the bridge, you can see the Puget Sound stretching out beneath you and sometimes even spot boats or sea lions passing below. Park at War Memorial Park just off Sixth Avenue, walk through the park, cross Jackson Avenue, and follow the walkway onto the bridge. Be aware, once you're on the bridge, you're in for the long haul. There are no bathrooms or snack stops.

Location: War Memorial Park, just off Sixth Avenue and North Skyline Drive

Swan Creek County Park

This urban treasure is often a path less traveled, especially if you venture deeper into the forest trails attached to the park. The main entrance is located along Pioneer Way, but there are unmarked entrances just off 56th and Portland Avenue and behind McIlvaigh Middle School. The trails span miles through quiet woodlands and offer a good workout as some parts are steep. Trails are unpaved. For easier hiking, stick to the park area around the Pioneer side.

Location: 2820 Pioneer Way E, Tacoma

Tacoma Waterfront

Tacoma's waterfront is a popular place to walk all year round. The terrain is flat and paved and the views of the Puget Sound are expansive. There are also several restaurants located along Ruston Way. Parking lots are located at the beginning, middle and end of Ruston Way.

Location: Ruston Way, Tacoma

Downtown Tacoma

Downtown Tacoma is the perfect place to see a mix of the arts, the water, and have ample places to enjoy a meal. Park at the Tacoma Art Museum or on the street along Pacific and wander between the art museum, Union Station, Washington State History Museum, Bridge of Glass and Museum of Glass.

Location: Tacoma Art Museum, 1701 Pacific Ave., Tacoma

Filed under: People Place or Thing,

April 29, 2012 at 8:10am

Can we talk pizza?

We hope to burn the roof of our mouths on these places today.

ABELLA PIZZERIA
Serving pizza pies, calzones, pasta, bagels and breakfast, this joint is a favorite of students at the art high school and University of Washington Tacoma. 1946 Pacific Ave., 253.779.0769.

OLD SCHOOL PIZZERIA
Old School Pizzeria is where you'd take Grandma - if she were a punk rocker.  Old School is Olympia in a nutshell: loud music, eclectic décor, bitchy staff - but in a good way.  The pizza is New York thin and delivers the crust just right so you can fold the thing in half and slide it into your mouth. 108 Franklin St., Olympia, 360.786.9640.

PIZZA CASA
Pizza Casa is a Lakewood icon that transcends all peoples. The menu is full of favorites such as ravioli, chicken, and manicotti.  Still, most people order the pizza, and for good reason. 12924 Pacific Highway S.W., Lakewood, 253.588.8135.

PUGET SOUND PIZZA
This joint is like everyone's memory of their favorite college pizza hangout.  Puget Sound Pizza has that college, no-frills feel with plenty of art event posters on the walls, large tables, big windows, not to mention cool retro barstools and those '70s red, orange and yellow chain lamps we sat under while watching the "Partridge Family" on prime time. It's the place to find a quick and large breakfast at a reasonable price 7-10:30 a.m. seven days a week, plus pizza that rocks your world (amazing red sauce).  317 South Seventh, Tacoma, 253.383.4777.

VIC'S PIZZERIA
Aggressively hip joint favored by college students and those who like loud music - and that's a good thing. Vic's serves delicious hand-tossed, New York style, thin crust and slightly greasy pizza - whole or by the slice. Toppings include pine nuts, tofu, capers, cashews among traditional items. White and whole wheat crust options (chose whole wheat). Vic's is also vegan friendly with yellow and white sauces made with yeast, tahini, soy milk, soy butter and a vegan calzone option. 233 Division St. N.W., Olympia, 360.943.8044.

Filed under: Food & Drink,

April 30, 2012 at 5:57am

TACOMA FILM FEST MAKES TOP 25 LIST


FROM MOVIEMAKER...

Movies are a serious business, but the folks at the Central Florida Film Festival aren't afraid to have some fun.

Making the decision to screen at a festival is easy. But which fests are truly worth a withdrawal from your hard-earned Entry Fee Bank Account? Here are 25 festivals worth the entry fee.

Tacoma Film Festival
Tacoma, WA; GrandCinema.com
Winning a prize at this grassroots event (cash prizes of $500 are awarded to each winner in all categories) is fruitful. But all participating moviemakers come out winners, as future entry fees are waived for alumni who want to return to Tacoma with new work in the future.

SEE THE OTHER 24 HERE

April 30, 2012 at 7:28am

Day Tripping: Snoqualmie

Snoqualmie is about the same distance from Tacoma as Seattle, but with a lot less traffic and better scenery. Snoqualmie is most-known for impressive Snoqualmie Falls and Snoqualmie Casino-and while these two attractions could fill the better part of a day, they are certainly not all there is to do here. If you want to turn your day trip into a weekend, the Salish Lodge & Spa is perched right above the falls, or stay at the casino if you enjoy hitting up some nightlife and slots before bed.

Snoqualmie Falls tops out at 270 feet-about 100 feet higher than Niagara Falls! Near the falls is an observation deck, which offers particularly cool views after heavy rain or snow (if not a bit misty from the spray). There is also a two-acre park with hiking trails adjacent to the falls area, but main trail is closed until 2013.

Snoqualmie Casino is also nearby. Along with 1,700 slot machines and 50 table games, the casino has several restaurants and a good lineup of headlining entertainment, including acts like Jay Leno and Craig Fergusson coming up in April and May.

If you're a fan of trains at all, the Northwest Railway Museum is one of Washington's most unique museums. Visitors can get up close to 70 pieces of railway equipment, including a number of steam locomotives and passenger cars. Starting April 1, visitors can take a train ride and see the falls from a much cooler vantage point.

The town of Snoqualmie itself is also worth exploring. Cute boutique shops and restaurants dot the town, and there are ample parks for picnics or easy hikes. Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors include fishing and kayaking in the Snoqualmie River, and golfing at Mount Si Golf Course or Snoqualmie Falls Golf Course.

April 30, 2012 at 7:31am

Pedal power: Bicycling in the Pacific Northwest

Those not born or raised in the area may wonder if Northwesterners have lost their minds.

"Cycling in this weather?" they may think.

And the answer is "Yes."

Diehard cycling fans will get out and ride in almost any weather. Mother Nature can't be controlled, but a few adjustments on the human end can make riding in the Northwest possible and enjoyable even if you get wet.

Being prepared for suddenly changing, inclement weather even when the day looks dry is the way for two-wheel success. A sunny morning can become a soggy afternoon quickly. First, get a good helmet and shoes that work for you - not equipment that slows you down. Old Town Bicycle in Tacoma and Olympia is a good bet for all your equipment needs.

Second, the acquisition of waterproof, ultra lightweight clothing is a necessity. Outdoors outfitters Wholesale Sports in Lacey and REI have outdoor fun all wrapped up. Get the gear you'll need, then love, then not be able to live without. When you find yourself wearing your new waterproof gears as your "everyday jacket" you'll know the Northwest assimilation is complete. Bonus: many hoods have stiff built-in brims so water drips away from your face.

On a serious note, it's essential to make yourself highly visible to cars by decking yourself with reflectors. Think you have enough? Go ahead and add a couple more. Once it starts to rain it's even tougher for drivers to see bicyclists.

And on the technical end, make sure your bike is in top shape; make a stop at one of four Bike Tech locations- Tacoma, Lakewood, Olympia, Puyallup. All locations offer free bike care clinics every Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

Riding with friends and fellow bike enthusiasts can make a drenching downpour something to chuckle about (later, after you've warmed). Bike Tech offers free group rides throughout the week; details can be found at www.biketech.com.

And if you're looking for companionship, cycling groups, like the Tacoma Wheelmen Bicycle Club and Capitol Bicycle Club in Olympia, offer organized and rated-for-difficulty rides, a sense of community, cycling advocacy and volunteerism.

Once you've got the basics handled, make a trip out of it. Cycling around the same area can get boring. Drive north and take a ferry to Lopez Island. The easy-to-medium hills and loop rides are suitable for beginners and even medium-age children. Terra Trek and Multi Sport Vacations offer guided bike tours and overnight stays.

Start planning your cycling getaway now. Believe it or not, sun-breaks are right around the corner.

Filed under: Sports,

April 30, 2012 at 11:48am

New food and cocktail offerings at Pastiche Restaurant and Wine Bar

If it's been a while since you've been to Pastiche Wine Bar, it may be time for another visit. In addition to their ample wine selection, they have transformed into a full service restaurant and cocktail lounge with delectable new food options and events.

Pastiche is quite the classy neighborhood spot, with warm décor and a cozy atmosphere. I recently had the pleasure of enjoying some of their wines, food, cocktails and more wine all while "Piano Man" Ron Mills played in the background. Not a bad Friday night, if you ask me.

Co-owners Linda Gair and Art Britton have created a concise menu of slow-cooked favorites such as braised short ribs ($20) and braised lamb shanks ($24). Their bar menu features items like fried vegetables ($6) and potato frites ($6).

I sampled Linda's own specialty, the crab balls ($7), which are basically crab cake bites. They were flavorful and loaded with crab, with a crunchy appeal. To accompany the appetizer, Austin the bartender created a refreshing mad mango martini ($9).

While the menu and cocktails might be new, the handpicked wine list is still the star of the show. Notable wines such as the Asian Pear by Windfall Winery ($8/glass, $29/bottle) from Prosser, Washington was light and fruity. In contrast, the Foppiano Vineyards Petite Syrah ($9/glass, $33/bottle) was more full-bodied and spicy.

In addition to their new menu, Pastiche offers whisky and vodka tastings ($6 - $9) every Thursday starting at 5 p.m. Tequila tastings ($6 - $8) begin this Tuesday, April 24.

My advice: If you're looking for a date location that will take you to the next...you know, level, get down to Pastiche. Nothing brings out "le amore" more than three glasses of pinot noir, live piano music and a selection of braised meats.

Pastiche Restaurant and Wine Bar, 2715 Sixth Ave., Tacoma. 253.572.2277. Open Tues. - Sat. 3 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Filed under: Food & Drink,

April 30, 2012 at 11:50am

Get your geek on, April 30-May 6

And we're back! Nerd Alert is the Spew blog's recurring events calendar devoted to all things nerdy. I myself am a Star Wars fan, mathlete, and spelling bee champion of long standing, so trust me: I grok whereof I speak. After a slow start, this week will kick you squarely in the geek balls, then stroll off with your nerd Lunchables. The 2012 summer movie season is upon us!

Monday, April 30

This was supposed to be the day Daniel H. Wilson signed copies of his highly entertaining sci-fi thriller Robopocalypse (soon to be a Spielberg extravaganza) in Tacoma. Then, at 2:14 a.m. Eastern time this morning, Skynet became self-aware. In a panic, King Books had to pull the plug. This did not stop Judgment Day. Nothing can stop Judgment Day. Anybody not wearing two million sunblock is gonna have a real bad day, get it? You're dead already! Everything you see is GONE!

Sorry.

Friday, May 4

Oh, children, finish your Halo campaigns, avoid Internet spoilers, throw your money at Fandango, and break out the drool mops and 3D glasses, because after years of character-building, the epic movie geeksplosion of Marvel's The Avengers has finally arrived! Robert Downey, Jr. as billionaire playboy alcoholic Tony Stark. Mark Ruffalo as the Not-So-Jolly Green Giant. Scarlett Johansson as leaked naked Twitpics. Samuel L. Jackson as a Bad Motherfrakker with poor depth perception. Earth's mightiest heroes band together to defeat (one presumes) fallen demigod Loki and his army of Chitauri E.T.s. Meanwhile, writer-director Joss Whedon, he of Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog and Cabin in the Woods pantheon status, not to mention the Eisner-winning Astonishing X-Men comics series, has combined his own forces with Digital Domain, ILM, Pixomondo, Weta Digital, Lola VFX, and several thousand Korean sweatshop animators to create the greatest single collision of superbeings since the Old Testament. I already have my Regal IMAX ticket. Even my wife, whose sole lifetime comic book purchase was a Chick Bible tract from junior high church camp, is on board. This may be the only non-October event at which you'll ever get to wear that Captain America outfit in the back of your closet, so for the love of sweet Kirby, do not be the last kid on your block to see this movie. See it again. Then go see my friend John Munn at Comic Book Ink and increase his kids' college fund.

Saturday, May 5

It's Cinco de Mayo, the day La Raza celebrates the anniversary of...uhh...the uh...no, I mean, it was when the uh...wait...no...My people celebrate the impending death of Lou Dobbs! Oh, who cares why we do it, there are margaritas involved. And don't pretend you don't like sombreros.

I've never looked up the word "nerd" on Wikipedia, but I'm 93% sure the entry includes a picture of Gandalf. If your immediate response to that remark was "White or Grey?" then you, my autism-scaling amigo, are a nerd. Google goggle, google goggle, one of us! Charles Ross is also a nerd, and a fine actor besides, who inspired us all by turning his nerdlihood into his livelihood. How? By being the One Man responsible for a show called One Man Lord of the Rings-a title which, like Snakes on a Plane or Debbie Does Dallas, doubles as its own tag line. Ross will stage the Battle of Pelennor Fields singlehandedly and portray over 40 characters, including Bilbo, Frodo, Gimli, Legolas, Gollum, and Sméagol. And if your mouth just flew open to protest that Gollum and Sméagol are the same character, then we know how you'll be spending your Saturday night. Fly, you fools!

[Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, One Man Lord of the Rings, $42, 3 and 7:30 p.m., 915 Broadway, Tacoma, 253.591.5890]

For the first time ever, Thurston County musicians will be feted in some cases, cruelly disappointed in most others at the Oly Music Awards. After all the hoopla over live events supposedly going the way of the dodo at Capitol Theater, local note-slingers will finally have their chance to put on a shredded tux, meet and greet ardent fans, insist Beyoncé made the best music video ever (which, let's face it, she kind of did), then have sex with the abovementioned fans. We have no idea who's hosting or nominated, but it's a fair bet Ryan Seacrest is involved. Of course, not all your favorites can win, so the event will be as enjoyable and irritating as any awards show. (Or that Foster the People album. Music zing!)

[Capitol Theater, Oly Music Awards, $3, 8 p.m., 206 Fifth Ave. SE, Olympia, 360.754.5378]

Speaking of questionable music, Saturday is also the night Van Halen and Kool & the Gang rock the Tacoma Dome (7:30 p.m.). Uh, together. As if they were somehow related. In any way. Whatsoever. Aw, might as well jump.

Until next week, may the odds be ever in your favor, the Force be with you, and your CG Hulk be even halfway believable.

Filed under: Nerd Alert!,

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News and entertainment from Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s most awesome weekly newspapers - The Ranger, Northwest Airlifter and Weekly Volcano.

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