Exploring Washington State: Navigating the North Cascades Highway with Lauren Loebsack

If you are an adventure-seeker who yearns to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest, then you'll want to tune in as we navigate through the North Cascades Highway.

Our very special guest is Lauren Loebsack, the communications manager for the North Central Region of the Washington State Department of Transportation. 

From the process of preparing the highway for reopening to the hidden gems and challenges along the way, this episode is packed with useful information for travelers and local enthusiasts alike.

A Peek Behind the Scenes: Preparing the North Cascades Highway for Reopening

Lauren Loebsack showcases her expertise as she walks us through the intricate process of preparing the North Cascades Highway for reopening. From coordinating maintenance crews and evaluating avalanche conditions to considering resources and weather forecasts, her insights shed light on the monumental effort required to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for all travelers.

With crews on both the east and west sides diligently working to clear snow and conduct avalanche control, the episode provides listeners with a newfound appreciation for the dedicated individuals who make this annual reopening possible. The ceremonial aspect of opening the road for vehicles, complete with music and traditions, adds an extra layer of charm to the experience.

Hidden Gems and Recommendations: Enriching Your Journey

As the conversation unfolds, Lauren Loebsack delves into her personal experiences and shares valuable recommendations for travelers. She emphasizes the importance of checking the Washington State Department of Transportation's travel map for updates on road conditions and construction zones, offering practical advice for planning a seamless and enjoyable trip.

Additionally, Loebsack's love for the natural beauty and outdoor activities in the Wenatchee Valley and North Central Washington shines through as she discusses her skiing experiences and favorite spots along the scenic drive. It's evident that her passion for the region extends beyond her professional role.

Planning for Your Journey: Practical Tips and Considerations

To equip listeners with practical advice, the podcast explores typical repairs on the highway, including snow-induced damage and ongoing cleanup efforts. Loebsack's warning about potential winter conditions on the mountain pass, even after the arrival of spring, serves as a timely reminder for travelers to prepare for varying weather conditions.

Additionally, her recommendations for the best times to travel the highway, along with suggestions for scenic stops and the lack of open facilities and services, offer invaluable insights for anyone considering a trip along this iconic route.

We hope you will enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it.

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Discovering Bellingham's Beer Scene

In Bellingham, the beer scene is vibrant and full of positive energy. 

Meet Layne Carter and Emily Mallos. They share their passion for raising the beer community in Bellingham and invite everyone to support Bellingham Beer. The camaraderie in the beer community is unmistakable, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and support among the breweries. 

The episode sheds light on the upcoming Bellingham Beer Week, promising an array of exciting events that showcase the diversity and creativity of the local breweries. Beer Week is a production of the Bellingham Beer Alliance.

Unique Beer Releases and Collaborations

One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion of unique beer releases and collaborations within the Bellingham beer community. From "Bach in the Saddle," a Texas style amber bock, to the Gruff Forest Funk aimed at raising money for the Cascade Carnivore Project, Bellingham breweries are brewing up delights for beer enthusiasts. The episode also features a floral IPA release, showcasing the breweries' proficiency in crafting dynamic and flavorful IPAs.

Local Delights and Activities

Layne and Emily also take us on a delightful journey through the culinary and recreational offerings in Bellingham. From savoring a beet Reuben and French fries at a local cafe to exploring the breathtaking Galbraith Mountain and Mount Baker, the episode presents a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Bellingham's food and outdoor adventures. Live music enthusiasts will appreciate the recommendations for the top spots to catch live music in Bellingham, such as the Trackside Beer Garden and Cowan Depot patios.

Bellingham Beer Week and Community Support

Bellingham Beer Week is a much-anticipated event that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of community and celebration within the local beer scene. With live music, beer, cideries, and food trucks, Bellingham Beer Week not only showcases the incredible beer offerings but also supports the Max Higbee Center, a significant aspect that underlines the community's commitment to giving back. 

The episode provides an insightful look at the Bellingham Beer Alliance's efforts to expand beer tourism and elevate the recognition of award-winning local beers, all while leveraging the exceptional quality of the local water.

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Meet the talented and passionate filmmaker Jessica Plumb.

In this episode we discuss her work and the upcoming showcasing of her film "Call of the Orcas" at the CASCADIA International Women's Film Festival. 

Join us as we dive into the world of independent filmmaking, the captivating beauty of Washington State, and the critical conservation efforts for the southern resident killer whales. 

Environmental Advocacy through Filmmaking

At the heart of Jessica Plumb's work is a dedication to environmental advocacy, with a focus on the critical issues related to southern resident killer whales and the ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. Through her film "Call of the Orcas," she sheds light on the threats facing these majestic creatures, including the dwindling Chinook salmon population, toxicants in their habitat, and the impact of shipping traffic. Plumb emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and inspiring action to combat these challenges, underscoring the pivotal role of storytelling in driving environmental conservation efforts.

Empowering Indigenous Perspectives and Community Engagement

Plumb's commitment to amplifying indigenous perspectives and engaging with tribal communities is a cornerstone of her upcoming projects. By delving into the recovery of salmon and orcas from an indigenous lens, she aims to deepen the narrative surrounding environmental conservation and foster meaningful dialogue within communities. Her dedication to inclusive storytelling and honoring indigenous knowledge underscores the profound impact of centering diverse voices in environmental advocacy and filmmaking.

Navigating the Filmmaking Journey: Challenges and Triumphs

Throughout the podcast episode, Jessica candidly discusses the challenges and lessons learned from her filmmaking journey. From the complexities of funding and navigating the festival circuit to the nuances of editing and audience engagement, Plumb's insights offer a raw and authentic portrayal of the independent filmmaking process. Her emphasis on the importance of feedback, team collaboration, and embracing the multifaceted nature of storytelling resonates with aspiring filmmakers and seasoned professionals alike.

Final Thoughts: A Journey of Filmmaking, Conservation, and Connection

As the episode draws to a close, the impactful conversation with Jessica Plumb leaves us with a deep appreciation for her dedication to filmmaking, her commitment to conservation, and her profound connection to the natural world. Her work serves as a reminder of the critical need to protect our environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.

Join us next time as we continue our journey of discovery across Washington State, uncovering inspiring stories, remarkable destinations, and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Until then, keep exploring, keep learning, and keep unearthing the treasures that this stunning state has to offer. Thank you for joining us on Exploring Washington State.

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Welcome to another exciting episode of Exploring Washington State. This episode we're diving into the vibrant world of film and community with a special focus on the Cascadia International Women's Film Festival. We sit down with the festival's dynamic executive director Cheryl Crooks. Our conversation covers the festival's impact on the local arts scene, the power of in-person connections, women in film, and much, much more.

The Return of Community and Collective Experiences

With the world slowly emerging from the grip of the pandemic, Cheryl Crooks notes an uplifting trend in community engagement. She mentions the increase in festival attendance, particularly among the younger generation. The increase is reflecting of a growing desire for collective experiences and interactions. As we all emerge from isolation, there's a palpable need for real connections and social skills, and the Cascadia International Women's Film Festival aims to foster just that.

Diving into the Festival Experience

The festival, which will take place from April 25th to 28th 2024, with an online version running from May 2nd to 12th 2024. promises a delightful lineup of heartwarming and thought-provoking films. Cheryl highlights "Last Dance" from Switzerland and Belgium, as well as "Ama Gloria" from France, as two particularly noteworthy selections, each offering an element of hope and meaningful experiences.

Embracing Change and Reflecting on the Past

We delve into the festival's evolution following the challenges posed by the pandemic. Cheryl and her team faced adversity but quickly pivoted, moving the festival online and adjusting their plans to showcase films digitally. Despite technical challenges, they successfully presented an online festival, allowing them to reach a wider, more diverse audience, and consider the value of a hybrid approach for future events.

Focus on the Pacific Northwest and Women in Film

Cheryl shares the festival's commitment to highlighting exceptional films by women and featuring diverse representation in its lineup. This dedication extends to the festival's origins, with Cheryl and her colleague, Polly Miller, founding the festival as a way to showcase women-directed films and reflect the beauty of the Cascadia area in the festival's identity.

Exploring Bellingham: A Cultural Gem

We have a delightful exploration of Bellingham, a city brimming with cultural and recreational opportunities. Discussing the city's charm, from its vibrant downtown and recreational activities to its close proximity to the Canadian border. Described as a great small city with around 100,000 people, Bellingham offers a welcoming and diverse tapestry of experiences, making it a must-visit destination for a long weekend.

Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Anticipation

With the festival's West Coast and Pacific Northwest premieres of fascinating films on the horizon, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the festival's legacy.

We hope you've enjoyed this recap of Exploring Washington State. Be sure to tune in for more fascinating insights, delightful debates, and inspiring stories of Washington's rich cultural tapestry. Remember to share the show with fellow enthusiasts and connect with Scott on Twitter to join the conversation. Until next time, happy exploring!

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Meet Becky Garrison

Becky shares her fascinating journey and her deep connection with the craft distillery scene of Washington State. Her background as a freelance writer and her passion for building communities clearly shines through as she discusses her experiences and inspirations. Becky's dedication to her craft and her enthusiasm for all things spirited make her the perfect guide to navigate the rich world of Washington's distilleries. 

Her new book Distilled in Washington is a deep dive into the history of distilling in Washington. The book also is a detailed resource to help you navigate the current distillery scene in Washington State.

Becky opens our eyes to the explosive growth of distilleries in Washington State. From beer history to privatized liquor stores, there's a whole lotta factors propelling the scene forward. But she also gives us a real-talk glimpse into the challenges and costs of setting up a distillery. Talk about dedication and love for the craft!

 Uncovering the Gems: Washington’s Distilleries

Blue Spirits, Copper Works, Westland, Woodinville – these ain't just names; they're the rockstars of the distillery scene. Becky lets us peek behind the scenes, unveiling the passion and grit poured into each bottle. These sips aren't just drinks; they're a taste of the state's soul.

The Craft Spirit Vibe

Becky's enthusiasm for craft spirits is contagious. She delves into the real deal about flavor, working with farmers, and the camaraderie embedded in every sip. It's not just a drink – it's a narrative waiting to be unraveled.

What Lies Ahead

As we wind down, Becky leaves us with hope for the future of distilleries. She assures us that our faves like Blue Spirits, Copper Works, Westland, and Woodinville are in it for the long haul. And while things look steady, she reminds us that life's full of surprises. But with these distillery dynamos at the helm, we're in for a spirited ride.

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Meet Riki Mafune, a third-generation Seattleite with a family history deeply intertwined with Japanese American experiences. The conversation delves into Japanese American history, the challenges of the internment camps, the Seattle music scene, and Riki's personal journey as a musician.

Family Legacy and Internment Camps

Riki shares her family's poignant story of generational trauma stemming from internment camps during World War II. Her great-grandfather passed away en route to the camps, and her family faced immense challenges upon their return home. Split up and relocated to camps like Camp Harmony (Puyallup Fairgrounds), Tule Lake, and Minidoka. Riki's family experienced the government's work release programs created for interned individuals to bolster the war effort. This section sheds light on the impact of Executive Order 9066, signed by President Roosevelt in 1942, leading to the unjust internment of Japanese Americans.

Japanese Cultural Heritage and Resources

Diving into Japanese cultural heritage and resources, Riki shares insightful recommendations. She points to organizations like Densho.org highlighting their invaluable documentation of historical aspects of the camps. Riki also recommends the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington and emphasizes the importance of educational resources to preserve and promote Japanese American history and culture. To further engage with this heritage, walking tours offered by institutions like the Seattle Public Library and the Wing Luke Museum provide immersive experiences for learning about vestiges of Japanese culture in the area.

Cultural Identity and Heritage

Furthermore, the discussion unravels Riki's experiences of embracing her mixed heritage and her mother's active role in educating her about both sides of her ethnicity. Riki shares her memories of growing up in the Roosevelt View District area, and the conversation touches on her family's ties to Japan through a greenhouse and a flower shop. This segment highlights the importance of understanding and celebrating one's cultural heritage.

Seattle Music Scene and Racial Marginalization

Transitioning to the Seattle music scene, Riki reminisces about her music career, which kick-started with the band Dynette Set. Amid anecdotes about the band's formation and hard work, the conversation uncovers the challenges Riki and her bandmates faced in a male-dominated rock and roll world. They pushed back against being marginalized and commercialized, refusing to conform to an inauthentic image. This segment delves into the lack of diversity in the Seattle music scene at the time, shedding light on the racial stereotypes and marginalization that women musicians, including Riki, encountered.

Personal Journey and Reflection

Learn more about Riki's personal journey and gain insight into her early ventures in music and the challenges she encountered. Riki candidly shares her struggles with feeling like an outsider and her experiences of working non-music-related jobs after the Dynette Set era. The segment also touches on her decision to go to college, attending Seattle University and majoring in philosophy. It reflects on her family's quietness about their internment experiences and her journey of researching and confirming their stories, shedding light on the resilience and perseverance reflected in her career choices.

Photo credit: Ernie Sapiro

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Curling, often seen as a niche sport, holds a captivating allure that combines strategy, teamwork, and a close-knit community. 

In this episode, host Scott Cowan engages in a lively and informative conversation with Bryan Pittard, the outreach person for the Granite Curling Club in Seattle Washington.

Discovering the Technical and Strategic Aspects of Curling:

During the conversation Bryan unveils the technical intricacies and strategic prowess required in curling. 

Bryan shares the inner workings of curling, explaining the terminology such as "house," "draw," "guard," and "hack," which are vital in understanding the game. He emphasizes the importance of rock delivery, the role of sweepers in guiding both speed and direction, and the imperfections in the science of rock delivery, shedding light on the sport's precision and strategic depth.

Welcoming All Ages and Abilities to Curling:

Bryan reveals the inclusivity of curling, bridging diverse age groups and abilities within the Granite Curling Club. He mentions the age range for participants, starting at around 10 years old and extending into the eighties and nineties. 

Bryan highlights the club's efforts to make curling accessible to individuals of all abilities by offering adaptive curling clinics for wheelchair users and incorporating tools like the stick and establishing seniors' brackets for those over 50.

Fostering a Thriving Curling Community:

The conversation captures the vibrant and close-knit community of the Granite Curling Club, featuring unique traditions like bonspiels, which are not only tournaments but also vibrant parties celebrating the spirit of curling. Bryan highlights themed events such as the holiday bonspiel and the "off to the races" April bonspiel, showcasing the fun, diverse, and culturally rich curling community. Moreover, the club's initiatives to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment within the sport accentuate the community-focused nature of the Granite Curling Club.

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Meet Beautiful Angle

 Lance Kagey and Tom Llewellyn invite us into their 20+ year collaboration. Beautiful Angle has brought striking art to various Tacoma neighborhoods including Hilltop, North End, Lincoln District, Stadium, 6th Ave, downtown, and South Tacoma Way. 

In 2002, Tom Llewellyn and Lance Kagey embarked on a mission to infuse Tacoma with artistic flair. Their collaborative project, Beautiful Angle, focuses on creating visually captivating posters that showcase the diverse culture and vibrancy of Tacoma's neighborhoods. What started as a passion project has now bloomed into a celebrated artistic endeavor, resonating with the city's community.

From the challenges of creating handcrafted posters to the community's overwhelming support, Tom and Lance share their immersive experiences, creative processes, and heartwarming stories.

Tune in and learn more about Beautfiul Angle, Tom Llewellyn, Lance Kagey, and Tacoma!

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Meet Alliyah Perry-

Alliyah Perry's journey began with a passion for growing and selling produce at farmers markets. However, she found this approach unsustainable due to time constraints and limited accessibility. This inspired her to conceptualize a unique idea: a grocery store where individual farmers could sell their produce without losing their farm identity. 

The vision came to life when a space in what was a coffee shop and roastery in Centralia became available. 

This store, named Farm + Flourish, has become a beacon for local farmers and producers to showcase and sell their products, staying true to their farm identity.

With a strong sense of community, Alliyah's grocery store has become a hub for local producers, offering a wide range of products that cater to the region's diverse tastes and preferences. This commitment to local sourcing and community engagement has not only received a warm reception from customers but has also set the stage for further expansion and the introduction of a deli or food service. 

Alliyah's store is a testament to the rewarding outcomes of supporting local businesses and building a stronger, more connected community.

This episode with Alliyah Perry is a captivating exploration of entrepreneurship, community engagement, and the transformative power of supporting local businesses. 

Alliyah's journey from farming and selling at local markets to creating a thriving grocery store demonstrates the profound impact that individuals can have on their communities. Her commitment to empowering local producers and fostering vibrant community events is a testament to the lasting impact of such initiatives. 

As the episode draws to a close, Alliyah leaves us with a vision for the future, one filled with growth, learning, and an unwavering dedication to her community - a vision that embodies the very essence of Exploring Washington State.

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Meet Curtis Ashby, a cool artist who paints big murals and loves bird art. Curtis talks about how mural art is big in Washington and how it brings people together.

Curtis explains that murals last a long time, like 10 to 20 years, which shows how strong this art is in Washington. He also talks about working with cities and groups like Spaceworks. This helps artists and business people team up and make their towns more colorful and fun.

He shares how he plans his art projects at the start of the year. It's neat to learn how much thought goes into making these big, beautiful murals. Curtis also likes it when his clients give him some ideas for the mural, but he adds his own touch to it. This mix makes each mural special and tells a story.

Curtis really loves birds and nature. He puts this love into his art as a way to remember his grandma. This makes his murals even more special and meaningful.

Curtis talks about a big project he did near Tacoma Community College. It was tough to get it all set up, but he worked with the community and made it happen. 

Curtis likes to paint with friends and help other artists. This shows how artists help each other and make their community better. He also talks about the tools and skills he uses to make his murals just right.

The podcast shows how Curtis' art is more than just painting walls. It's about stories, working together, and making places beautiful. You'll want to hear more about how Curtis and other artists are making Washington an awesome place full of art!

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