Photos: 8-story Shepard Fairey 'American Rage' banner installed in South Lake Union

Theater in Seattle: The future of the industry and how it will (and needs to) change

For audience members, the closure of Seattle's theaters because of COVID-19 is an inconvenience. For actors, directors, stage crew and more, the uncertainty of the future of live performances is even more troublesome. In recent weeks, many companies have announced they have been forced to make staff reductions and postpone shows. When the theaters do reopen, chances are great the experiences will look and feel much different, which, as it turns out, could be a really good thing.

Will plastic bags make their triumphant return after the coronavirus pandemic?

It feels like 2020 has lasted a lifetime, but remember when the United States came together to fight the common enemy that was The Plastic bag? Cities all over enacted bans and shamed anyone who dared carry anything inside one. Those with pets were hardest hit because if you carry dog poop in a plastic bag, it looks like you cleaned up after your dog, but if you carry dog poop in a paper bag, it looks like you bought it (sorry).

Welcoming A Baby During a Pandemic: The Rupp Family

Parents welcoming babies into the world during the strange chaos of COVID-19 face an unusual new set of challenges and fears. Whether you're expecting, already welcomed a little one or had to put your fertility treatment on hold due to COVID-19, we'd love to hear from you and share your story in this weekly feature on Seattle Refined. Email Kateneidigh611@gmail. com or reach out on Instagram @June. In. January to be featured.

Artist of the Week: Lynne McFarland

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

RUFFined Spotlight: Loki the Akita/Pit Bull Mix

Photos: Touring Seattle's Scenic Sculptures

Review: 'My Spy' is predictable, but charming

It's a movie trope as old as at least some twenty year olds. The films poster featuring burly muscle of the WWE mean-mugging next to the sassy grin of an innocent young child. It's a right of passage for many wrestlers aspiring to pivot to the acting world. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, though a bonafide movie star now, had to serve his time in flicks like "The Game Plan" and "Tooth Fairy".

Photos: Murals of the International District

Art gallery pivots to BIPOC organic food bank after COVID-19 pandemic

After a successful soft opening in March, John Wesley Sargent and his business partner Kymani Thomas were getting ready to launch their new art gallery The Square in South Seattle (located between the Central District and Beacon Hill). Yet clearly, with the arrival of COVID-19, life had different plans. Thankfully, Sargent labels himself a “perpetual pivoter,” hence why he can now call himself the proud founder of the brand-new Seattle BIPOC Organic Food Bank.

Bestselling author Kristin Hannah calls the PNW home

Reading a good book is one of life's little pleasures, and it just so happens that the Pacific Northwest is home to a lot of amazing authors - likeGarth Stein who wrote the tearjerker 'The Art of Racing in in the Rain,'and YA author Marisa Meyer who penned the uber popular 'Lunar Chronicles' series. And now,Kristin Hannah!

Movers & Shakers: Tonita Webb's journey of racism, roadblocks, growth & hope

Welcome to Movers & Shakers; a series where we look deep into PNW life for people who are making moves, doing big things, and who are just - in general - being rad. Seattle is full of multi-talented and multi-faceted people, many at the intersection of technology and the arts. How do they find the time? What's their secret? Well friends, we're here to find out. Meet Movers & Shakers; aka Seattle Refined attempting to capture the not-so-secret lives of impressive locals.

Throwback Edition: Seattle Pride Parades, Through the Years

Artist of the Week: Bryon Stewart

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! How long have you been creating?

Scenes of Seattle: Then and Now

Photos: Thousands march on South Lake Union in support of Black LGBTQ+ community

Seattle bus driver celebrated in Amazon's new series for efforts during COVID-19

Just one and a half years ago,Tiffany Underwood decided to change careers and become abus driver for Community Transit — even though she had never driven a vehicle of that size before. Today, she couldn't see it any other way. Underwood used to be in an office for about 10 hours a day but wanted something different — to be out in the world. "I wanted to just... get out on the road and just kind of explore, and I love it," the 35-year-old said.

Photos: Community throws surprise car/walking parade for beloved educator

One Degree Away from Kevin Bacon

Actor/musician Kevin Bacon and Seattle Refined go way back. We got to interview Kevin and his brother Michael when they were in Seattle on a tour with their band The Bacon Brothers back in 2016. So we were thrilled to be one degree away from Kevin Bacon again as he gave us the scoop on his brand new (and very scary) movie, 'You Should Have Left' which is available to watch on demand now. Kevin Bacon: Hi Malia! Seattle Refined: Hi Kevin Bacon, I am so excited to see you!

Photos: An up-close look at Seattle's huge Black Lives Matter mural, letter by letter

M.U.S.T. Program fosters hope through mentorship

It stands for Mentoring Urban Students and Teens — M. U. S. T. "[It's] a mentoring program. There is nothing like it in the country," said founder and executive director Rick Newell. The six-year program serves young African American men in South Seattle and the Rainier Valley. "We pride ourselves on saying, 'You are important,' and we have six years to show you how great you can be," said Kelvin Washington, M. U. S. T. Area Director.

87% of Americans are having vivid dreams during the pandemic

Pretty much every aspect of life has been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic — and,for some, that includes dreams. A new study has found approximately 87% of Americans reported experiencing vivid dreams since the pandemic began, almost half revolving around job/work situations. Sleep Standards, a sleep health and product company, launched the survey in May to 1,000 participants across the country. The survey also found:16.

I'm on track to read 100 books this year. You can be, too!

I've loved reading for as long as I can remember. Books offer adventure — a peek into other times and places, other minds. They teach, guide and open doors, and let's face it, now is definitely the time to escape into a different world, even if it is for a short time in some good fiction or self-reflection prompted by an expert. Whether it's historical fiction, a dystopia, memoir or self-help, I love it all. So much so that I'm on track to read 100 books this year. But how?

RUFFined Spotlight: Isis the Husky

'Pollyanna' turns 60; seems like a good time to play 'The Glad Game'

This year, the classic Disney film "Pollyanna" celebrates its 60th anniversary! And, although no one could have imagined what 2020 would bring, Pollyanna, played by the iconic Hayley Mills, offers a meaningful lesson in finding gladness in varying circumstances. Inspired by Eleanor Parker's book, the film adaptation begins with 11-year-old Pollyanna arriving by train to the town of Harrington.

Father's Day: DIY Playhouse Build

"Thanks Dad! "I'm still relatively new to this whole fatherhood thing, but from the small amount of experience I do have, I can say I'm more thankful than ever for the effort my mom and dad, grandparents and everyone who took care of me as a kid put into raising me. Because raising a toddler of my own has taught me... It's a lot of work.

Artist of the Week: Nate Ulmer

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

Small Biz, Big Heart: #GiveAHigh5 Program Feeds Essential Employees

Snohomish small business owner Farren West believes "nothing we do in life, we do completely alone. " West is the founder of Key Inspection Services, a small five-person company that has seen business decline by 70% since the coronavirus pandemic hit. Although his business has been hit hard, he is grateful to be still bringing in some income and feels it's important to assist others who are serving their community every day.

Throwback Edition: Fremont Solstice Parades of Years Past

Photos: Thousands gather in Seattle for Juneteenth rally and march

100 Things To Do in Seattle Right Now (or Very Soon)

For months now, we've been good - we've worn masks, we've kept our distance and we've stifled our sneezes. Now, our state is starting to open back up! As of Friday (June 19), King County has officially been approved for Phase 2 of reopening! We still have a long way to go before we're back to "normal" again, but instead of focusing on what we CAN'T do, it's high time we take a look around us for the things we CAN do.

10 Children's Books That Celebrate Diversity, Kindness and Inclusion

The Conscious Kid, one of my favorite parenting resources on Instagram, is known for sharing goldmines full of resources. They’re a Black and brown-owned nonprofit, and I’m constantly in awe of their insight and wisdom; always mindful, always cited, always encouraging me to do better. Recently they shared a post that asked “Are your kids too young to talk about race? ” I knew well enough that the answer was “no” - children are never too young for important conversations like race.

Photos: Ducklings escorted to waterfront by Ballard residents for a second time in 2020

Learn a magic trick from Nash Fung, a magical motivational speaker

Nash Fung is a magician and motivational speaker. If he looks familiar to you, there's a good chance you've seen him on TV, performing in public or even at your office. Fung said he's been a keynote speaker for many of the big companies in the PNW — combining magic with stories from his life for a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. Right now, Nash is still performing via online video conferencing and said he could teach me a trick I could use to fool my friends. You can learn it, too!

Scenes of Seattle: Inside CHOP

Duran Duran super fan creates 'Duranie Distractions' for fellow buffs

Refined first caught up with Andrew ‘Durandy’ Golub, local Duran Duran Archivist in 2017. He may be the world's biggest fan of of the band Duran Duran - and he has the memorabilia to back it up! Normally, Durandy opens 'The Archive' up for personalized tours for other Duran Duran fans, but with the current health crisis, that wasn't possible. So he thought of another way to share and celebrate Duran Duran with others.

Local walks from Seattle to Montana to raise money for families in need

What started as training for a leisurely hike for Thurston Weaver turned into a whole lot more. The 24-year-old was working as bartender when COVID-19 hit, and found himself unemployed with a lot of extra time on his hands. "I started working in the restaurant industry when I was 18 years old, so I was always used to being on my feet," said Weaver. "After I lost my job I started a regimen of walking daily with a 20 pound pack on, sometimes 25 miles a day to keep busy. "

There are massages, and then there are CBD massages

I’ve discovered a life hack recently that has been particularly game changing for me. I’ve realized that, instead of waiting until you are on the verge of existential collapse to take time for yourself, you can actually PROACTIVELY book chill time to recharge your batteries before they die. Crazy, right? Who knew?!

PAX West going virtual for 2020, returning to Seattle 2021

Another Seattle staple event is going virtual this year. PAX West, a global gaming culture celebration operated byPenny Arcade in Redmond, will happen online this year, Sept. 12-20. The decision to go virutal was made to protect the safety and health of the community. The event typically takes place in Seattle, where the very first PAX was hosted. It will return to the city in 2021.

Emerald City Comic Con 2020 is officially cancelled

Emerald City Comic Con, the largest comic book and pop culture convention in the Pacific Northwest, will not be happening in 2020. Like pretty much everything, ECCC was impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and the cancelations that came because of it. On March 13 (which was supposed to be the second day of the original convention), ECCC announced the new dates for the 2020 convention, set to take place in August.

Strawberry Fields Forever: 5 U-Pick Farms Open Now

Summer activities will surely be different this year, but one Pacific Northwest favorite is still an option - strawberry picking! Hallelujah! Get ready for some dirt under your nails, field nibbles of sun-ripened berries, and a dose of vitamin D. After months of being cooped up, an outdoor adventure seems like the perfect outing for young and old alike.

Extremely rare, deep-sea fish found near Port Angeles

Talk about a big fish! Staff of Harbor WildWatch, a Gig Harbor-based environmental education nonprofit, were on a beach walk at the Salt Creek Recreation Area near Port Angeles earlier this month when a paddleboarder told them there was a "massive, dead creature" washed ashore. "A paddleboarder in the creek called out to us, 'are you biologists? '" said communications specialist Carly Vester.

Photos: Community peacefully gathers at CHOP's Culture Day

RUFFined Spotlight: Juno the German Shepherd Pup

Happy 60th Anniversary to the Seattle Japanese Garden

For decades, The Seattle Japanese Garden has provided tranquility and serenity to all those who enter. Opened to the public on June 5th of 1960, the garden is filled with babbling streams, rich flora, stepping stone bridges and mirror-like water features, home to coy fish, stoic turtles and the ever-calming music of songbirds.

11 Father's Day Gifts that Support Local Businesses

Judd Apatow talks 'The King of Staten Island', raising kids with a sense of humor

It's fair to call Judd Apatow a comedic genius - all one needs to do is look at his IMDB page. A prolific writer, director and producer (who also occasionally does stand-up comedy on the side), Apatow helped shepherd modern day classics like "Knocked Up", "Superbad" and "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" to the big screen. His latest, The King of Staten Island, had its theatrical release thwarted by coronavirus. Instead, it arrives on-demand, on June 12th.

It's a Dawg's Life: Catching up with Dubs, the UW mascot

There are so many famous UW grads - from KOMO's Steve Pool, to musician Kenny G. But there's one dog who's truly Top Dawg'! Dubs II aka "Dubs" is the University of Washington's live mascot. In addition to his official duties, Dubs is also a social media sensation, with his own Instagram account (where he has over 25,000 followers) as well as a Facebook page and website. The pooch divides his time between "regular" life with his family and time with his trainer (and friend) Anne-Lisa Nilsen.

ABC casts Matt James as first black male lead on 'The Bachelor'

ABC announced Friday that for the first time ever, a black man will star as the lead on "The Bachelor. " Matt James is the man named to the role. While James hasn't appeared as a contestant on a previous season of "The Bachelorette," which is often how the show selects future leads, ABC said he was supposed to be a prospective suitor on the season that was canceled due to the coronavirus - Clare's season.

Streaming Seattle: What to do [online] this weekend

As Seattle slowly but surely moves toward reopening, we slowly but surely move away from being bolted to our couch. Although it's tempting to jump right back into our usual summer activities, easing in slowly is key. To balance out that newfound freedom, here are some virtual events to tune into this weekend: Big Virtual Climb. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Big Climb is moving from skyscraper to stairwell this year.

Senior living powered by virtual options and adaptability

The last few months have undoubtedly introduced new challenges and obstacles to several parts of your life. As people around the globe adapt and overcome these new challenges, the team at Murano Senior Living is paving the way for innovative and creative senior living options. For many families, sheltering in place has put a strain on maintaining a home. Adult children begin to realize their parents could benefit from additional help or assisted living services.

Photos: Seattle painter creates portraits of healthcare workers treating COVID-19

Photos: Seattle artists fill streets with murals to honor Black Lives Matter

Beyonce, King County partner for free drive-thru COVID-19 testing

Yes, you read that right. THATBeyoncé! King County just announced a two-day drive thru initiative in partnership withMs. Tina Knowles Lawson's #IDIDMYPART campaign and Beyoncé's BeyGood program. On Saturday and Sunday, June 13-14, free drive-thru testing and essential supplies — like diapers and toiletries — will be available in Renton and Federal Way. Saturday, June 13 from 11 to 5 p. m. at HealthPoint Administration in Renton, 955 Powell Ave SW Renton, WA 98057.

Shorecrest High School 'Les Mis' Video Goes Viral

"One Day More" is a soaring song with stirring lyrics from the musical "Les Miserables". It's a sort of grand finale for senior drama students at Shorecrest High School in Shoreline. It was meant to be shared on stage. "This spring we were working on a big huge production of Les Mis," said drama reacher Andy Kidd. He had been looking forward to this for years. "The senior class is so special to me. So it was a way to sort of honor their work and a way to showcase them. "

Snack Time at The Seattle Aquarium

Seattle Aquarium may be currently closed to the public but that doesn't mean the animals don't get hungry! “There is a core staff here that is taking care of the animals. That is their primary job all of the time,” said Kim Thomas, a marine science interpreter and SCUBA diver at the aquarium. One of the first things guests normally see when visiting the aquarium is the Window on Washington Waters exhibit, the GIANT fish tank right in the lobby.

Next video conference meeting? Call A Llama

Derren Patterson moved from Washington to Bolivia 12 years ago — fulfilling a bucket list item of living in every continent (apart from Oceania and Antarctica) before turning 30. He had heard amazing things about the country, so he relocated as a mountain bike guide for what he thought would be nine months. These days he's helping promote a zany virtual tourism offering that lets armchair travelers enjoy a 15 to 20-minute call with a llama — yep, you read that correctly. CallALlama.

Ask An Expert: Etiquette in the time of COVID-19

Due to the current health crisis, we find ourselves facing etiquette challenges that didn't exist until a few months ago. So what's well intentioned person to do? Ask a pro, of course! Refined caught up [virtually] with Cortney Anderson-Sanford, a Seattle based etiquette expert and graciousness whisperer to get her advice on how to be polite during these awkward times. Seattle Refined: Can you help us navigate manners and etiquette in the time of COVID 19?

Seahawk K.J. Wright talks quarantine life & how he's prepping for the upcoming season

Author's Note: This interview was conducted on May 15, 2020. Since entering the NFL in 2011, as a 4th round draft pick out of Mississippi State, K. J. Wright has starting 124 games, all with the Seahawks. He's got a Super Bowl ring, was a Pro Bowl selection and now he's preparing for his 10th NFL season, though this offseason is a little different than usual. Seattle Refined:How has it been preparing for the season in the midst of a quarantine?

Yes, you can still 'send' your kids to summer camp

Despite Washington being on the the path to reopening, I scrolled my email last week to discover another cancellation. This time, a summer camp my son had been looking forward to in mid-August. I’ll have to break it to him soon. Prep him for more disappointment, somehow replace it... but how? With what? Perhaps an online camp?

Artist of the Week: Jayashree Krishnan

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! Seattle Refined: How long have you been creating?

10 ways Seattle leaders, musicians, artists & politicians are showing up

Seattle area community leaders, musicians, artists, politicians and influencers provide tangible steps and perspectives on taking a stand against racial injustice.

Savor Seattle's new 'Solidarity Box' supports Black-owned businesses

Shortly after the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order when into effect, Savor Seattle launched the Iconic Market Box to support Pike Place Market businesseswhile their doors were shut to foot traffic. Now, the food tour company is doing something similar to support Black-owned businesses in the city. "We have always been ambassadors of the Seattle small business food community," said Savor Seattle founderAngela Shen.

Calling Young Minority Filmmakers: Submissions now open for 'The Big Pitch'

The Big Pitch is a new competition launched by TLG Motion Pictures seeking TV and film ideas from Seattle-based young adult minorities ages 18-25. Submissions are being accepted through June 22, and ten finalists will be chosen to (virtually) pitch their concept to top Hollywood executive producers. Courtney LeMarco is a Seattle-based TV and film producer, and founder of TLG Motion Pictures. The company provides funding and production resources for original TV, film and digital content.

Inspire, Empower & Educate: Papersalt creates real world advice for kids and families

There are a lot of awesome small businesses that call the PNW home — and we love sharing their stories! From Tacoma's Enamel Co. (handcrafted cups with spunky sayings) to Texanita Bakery(sharing grandma's recipe for concha bread) in Tukwila, it's fun getting to meet the people behind the biz. Like the Seattle based company,Papersalt! A father-daughter duo behind the scenes create content designed to "inspire, empower and educate kids and families.

Seattle native's Facebook group matches volunteers to thousands in need

In these crazy pandemic times we are all facing, many positive things are emerging, one - is the act of giving. So many people are helping other, and one Pacific Northwest native in particular has started a successful giving campaign with just one simple Facebook post. We sat down with Ron Lynch, the man behind IntellihelpUSA. Intellihelp is a Facebook group that you can join in the U. S. , where people who are in need of grocery store items or over the counter items can put it on a list.

Forest Ceramic Co. takes porcelain pottery to another level

There are some amazing artists in our area, and at Seattle Refined, we're passionate about profiling them through our Artist of the Week web series as well as on the show. Recently, we've featured a Ballard paper cutting artistand an artist in Arlington who transforms mixers into 3-D masterpiecesusing paint. So when we heard about Sean Forest Roberts on Orcas Island and his innovative process for working with porcelain, we had to get the scoop!

Black-Owned Businesses & Restaurants in Seattle You Can Support Right Now

Intentionalist. com is a fantastic resource for you to "Spend Like It Matters" - because it does. They compile information on small, local businesses throughout the country so you can make more informed decisions about where you eat, shop, get your hair done (when that's allowed again), and generally spend your money. We used their amazing resources to compile and amplify these black-owned businesses in Seattle.

Photos: Seattle grocery stores adapt to 'new normal'

Artist of the Week: Tara Anne Chugh

Seattle might be notorious for niche coffee shops and scenic waterways, but locals know it's also home to an array of people who love to create. This city is chock-full of artists who we love to feature weekly on Seattle Refined! If you have a local artist in mind that you would like to see featured, let us know at hello@seattlerefined. com. And if you're wondering just what constitutes art, that's the beauty of it; it's up to you! How long have you been writing/performing?

Photos: 'Social distancing circles' mowed into Cal Anderson Park

Watershed Music Festival 2020 has been cancelled

Following suit with many other large summer events, the Watershed Music Festival in George, WA - has been cancelled. The country music festival, set to take place July 31 through August 2, 2020, draws thousands of PNW country fans each year to the Gorge Amphitheater. The announcement was made on the festival's social media accounts Friday morning (May 29), and simultaneously announced the 2021 festival dates as July 30 - August 1, 2021.

Study: Seattle residents on average have only gained 0.41lbs during self-isolation

Quarantine 15? Apparently, not in Seattle. Take a second to rub your eyes or adjust your glasses, yes — you read that correctly. A new study by Withings, a company selling electronic health devices and services, anonymously analyzed data from more than 2 million users. The study takes a look at how activity, weight and sleep habits have changed during self-isolation for people in the United States and around the globe. The study found that Seattle residents have, on average, only gained 0.

Streaming Seattle: What to do [online] this weekend

Apparently this weekend is all about... learning? Don’t worry, it’s more fun than it sounds. This weekend is packed with book clubs, astronomy, science projects, concerts, and seminars. This one goes out to everyone craving a bit of intellectual stimulation right now: Get Bookish. There’s nothing like curling up with a good book, and being stuck inside gives us plenty of time for that.

Lizzo inspires virtual performance by a Seattle middle school marching band

It's pretty much impossible to listen to Lizzo and not feel "Good as Hell," right? The singer, rapper, flutist and all-around icon is a household name by now. Her third studio album, "Cuz I love You," produced several hit singles, including the funky-pop track "Juice. " It's a song all about empowerment, confidence and self-love. It oozes perseverance, and that's exactly why a local middle school band chose to perform it virtually.

Scenes of Seattle: A City Two Months Into Quarantine

Redmond native turned Hollywood stuntwoman is flipping the script on gender typecasting

We're lucky enough to get a lot of opportunities to chat with stars who have ties to Seattle - like actor Tom Skerritt and musician Kenny G. But when we heard about a woman who grew up on the Eastside, and is now working as a professional stuntwoman in Hollywood, we had to get the scoop! Amy Sturdivant's journey started when she was a star track athlete at Redmond High. She's been kicking butt in real life and reel life - since then.

Seattle's Cinerama theater to close 'for the foreseeable future'

Sadly, another Seattle business is closing its doors due to the impacts of COVID-19. Seattle's Cinerama Theater announced the closure on their social media and website Wednesday, May 27, citing the coronavirus pandemic's "devastating effect on many businesses, especially those that rely on public gatherings and special events. " Located in Belltown, the Cinerama has been a Seattle staple for moviegoers since1963, and wasreinvigorated by Paul Allen when he purchased it in 1998.

Russell Wilson, Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird hosting virtual ESPYS

Seattle is taking over the 2020 ESPYS! Russell Wilson, Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird are hosting this year's sports award show, taking place virtually Sunday, June 21, on ESPN. The EPSYS typically take place in July and is a red carpet event with thousands of attendees. COVID-19 is impacting everything this year, and the ESPYS are no different. For the first time, the award show will feature three hosts in remote locations.

Pandemic-Era Hiking: How to adventure responsibly and respectfully

While there's great news about some of our beautiful trails reopening, there are crucial rules we must all keep in mind before lacing up our boots. Kindra Ramos, the Washington Trails Association (WTA)communications and outreach director, admits staying on top of closings and openings has been a bit of a "moving target," since it's an "ever-changing landscape.

Murano Senior Living: Where flexibility meets lifestyle

Now more than ever, seniors and their families need flexibility in senior care. Murano Senior Living is a rental community in downtown Seattle that offers a continuum of care services, optimizing the choices families have when selecting the level of care for their loved ones. Unlike continuing retirement communities (CCRCs), Murano Senior Living is a rental retirement community. Cost is a significant difference between these two options.

Photos: Meet the 14 baby animals of Woodland Park Zoo

Photos: 21 Seattle-themed backgrounds for your next video conference call

RUFFined Spotlight: Gala the Catahoula Leopard Mix

Quarantine & Birth Order: How each child copes differently

"Oh, you're such a firstborn! ""Happy Middle Child Day... oh, you didn't notice? It's ok, no one did. ""The baby gets away with everything! "Whether you're the first, middle or last born, you've likely heard quips about your place in your family's birth order your whole life. And, although they tend to be said in a joking manner, more often than not, there is some amount of truth in the generalizations.

Review: 'The Lovebirds' has great leads, but no sturdy script for them to stand on

The disappointment is real with "The Lovebirds", a caper comedy starring the hot comedic chops of funnypeople Kumail Nanjiani ("Silicon Valley") and Issa Rae ("Insecure"). Heading direct to Netflix after its original theatrical release was canned (thanks COVID-19), the film is filled to the brim with various hijinks and situational humor that would, on paper, add up to an entertaining comedy.

Update: Seattle teacher moves to semifinals on 'Jeopardy!'

Things we love to see for $1,000, Alex! The "Jeopardy! Teachers Tournament" kicked off on Monday (May 25), and Seattle had a local competing for the grand prize of $100,000 and a spot in the next Tournament of Champions. Lauren Schneider Lipton, who teaches health at Garfield High School in Seattle, competed on Wednesday's episode, and holy moly — she's moving on to the semifinals! [Who Is... Alex Trebek? Our chat with the iconic game show host] "Jeopardy!

Photos: Huge lines circle the block at Seattle's Goodwill on Dearborn

Streaming Seattle: What to do [online] this weekend

Not only is it finally the weekend, but it’s a long one. This weekend, enjoy a sensory overload (in a good way), a confinement film festival, a bingo and burlesque mashup, and much more. Here’s what's lined up:Party SpectacularlyJoin Virtually Spectacular and “party like the entire Internet is watching”. Hosted by the fabulous Betty Wetter, this fundraising event is the perfect chance to dress up and get down with some of Seattle’s most iconic performers.

Scenes of Seattle: It's Just A Phase

All Seafair summer events officially canceled for 2020

SEATTLE -- One of Seattle's greatest summer traditions is the latest event to be cancelled due to the coronavirus. Seafair organizers announced all major of the events over the weeks-long celebrations have been canceled for 2020 and will instead have to wait until the summer of 2021 to come back.

Snohomish band Fretland releases a debut album perfect for quarantine

Seattle Refined: Hillary Fretland, you are a singer, songwriter and musician based in Snohomish. And you and your band have a brand new album coming out - tell us about that? Hillary Grace Fretland: My band Fretland is releasing our first record on May 22nd. We are so excited to share it. Tell us about your band and about your music. We are a 4-piece Americana band. I think that you could hear a lot of things especially given that we’re Northwest Americana. Along with classic county roots.

At Home Senior Portraits: Shoot them like the pros

These days taking a photo with your cell phone is easy - but that doesn’t make it look good. The quintessential, professional senior portrait requires even light, proper exposure, careful framing and a beautifully blurry background. You can do it. Any photographer worth their salt will tell you a great photograph requires great lighting. And if you don’t have a fancy light kit at your disposal, the easiest place to find nice light is outside in the shade.

Spreading joy throughout Kirkland, one painted rock at a time

You may not notice them when you first survey the scenery at McAuliffe Park in Kirkland, but take a closer look. Tucked into trees, concealed on rusty farm equipment or just simply hidden in plain sight, there's a wonderful world of decorated rocks waiting to be discovered. This is more than a way to pass the time — for folks like Caroline Chastain, it's a passion.

Hey parents, it's ok to allow more screen time right now

There's about a month of school left in this very different — often difficult — school year. While some teachers have hit their stride in digital, long-distance learning, that isn't the case on the home front for some parents. The consensus is (at least amongst my friends, family and what I'm seeing on social media) is that many parents are reaching burnout thanks to the schooling schedule during this crisis. No doubt, the remaining six weeks of the school year feel daunting.

Virtual Fitness: How local trainers are adapting to changing times

In the age of social distancing and staying home, fitness has gone virtual. The Six, Studio3 and TruFusion are among a growing number of local studios offering live-streamed workouts. Owners and instructors are adapting to ensure their clients can still get their sweat on. "If you're someone who loves to workout and you miss your workout, you know how you feel," said Caitlin Walker, owner of Barre3 Bellingham.