Photos: A visit to WA's Northern State Ghost Town, and its historic asylum

RUFFined Spotlight: Thor the Spider Monkey (not really)

Grief in a Pandemic: Pregnancy + Infant Loss Awareness Month

If you've been following this series, you know we have been profiling families who have given birth during this pandemic, are expecting, or have had to halt or adjust their fertility and/or adoption proceedings due to the coronavirus.

Artist of the Week: Olivia Patrick

"I've been creating ever since I could hold a pencil, but I started exploring more as an artist in high school."

Review: 'Kajillionaire' is a true master class on quirk

The characters in 'Kajillionaire' are anything but wealthy elite. They are con artists, a strange familial threesome who rob parcels from the post office and live in an abandoned office space next to a bubble factory. They are supposed to pay rent, but they don't, and instead duck as they enter and exit the building to avoid their landlord.

Review: 'The War with Grandpa' is dated, fails to make a connection

Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, Cheech Marin and Jane Seymour walk into a trampoline park. Unfortunately, that isn't the set-up. It's the punchline of "The War with Grandpa", a kid-friendly comedy that skates by with gags that find De Niro, the grandpa of the title, slipping on marbles (obviously, accompanied by the line, "He's lost his marbles! ") and pretend punching himself in the bathroom when his shaving cream is replaced with foam sealant. And those are some of the better parts.

Review: 'The Trial of the Chicago 7' is, above all else, timely

Timely. Aaron Sorkin's latest film - though written just before the 2008 writers strike, then shelf-strewn until it finally went into production ten years later - is, above all else, timely. Writer-director Sorkin is known for his fast dialogue, witty banter and the momentum both of those bring to his films, and in this sense, "The Trial of the Chicago 7" fits the mold.

'Color Me Important' connects kids and teachers with inclusive supplies

At Seattle Refined we are constantly inspired by people in the community who are making a difference in the lives of others. From the local teen who put his 3D skills to use to help a cardiologist keep his face mask on safelyto the high school student in Bellevue who built a website to help restaurants during the Pandemic. Marnie Gray works in the Lake Stevens School District.

'Cancer Cartel' helps those battling the illness pay everyday bills

They are a one, two, three punch - taking a big swing at cancer. Kerry Solmonsen beat breast cancer, thyroid cancer and skin cancer. Katy Tinney beat Non Hodgkin's lymphoma and skin cancer. Shelly Tinney-Miller beat breast cancer and skin cancer. Less than a year ago, Tinny and Tinny-Miller (sisters) along with their best friend Solmonsen started Cancer Cartel, a company dedicated to helping cancer fighters pay everyday bills.

Documenting Love: Cody & Amie's Story

Photographer/blogger/genius Alexandra Celia has devoted her career to documenting love in its purest and most original form — which you'll see in her photos. Now and then, she will share her work with couples: their love story, their commitment, their passion.... and of course, their photos. Think of her as our Love Guru. She loves love and is here to share it with the rest of us. Amie. Cody and I met at Peace Corps orientation in Philadelphia in March 2013.

Review: Blumhouse debuts more scary movies for your viewing pleasure

Did the first part of our "Welcome to the Blumhouse" review leave you hankering for more? Well hold on to your butts - there are two more films available on Amazon Prime Video beginning October 13 as part of the aforementioned curated anthology, and we have the lowdown below. Let the scary times roll.

Ex-Bachelor Jason Mesnick spills on 'The Bachelorette' & his new book

As the new season of ABC's 'The Bachelorette' is about to begin, Refined wanted to check in with one of our favorite couples from 'The Bachelor. ' First a little 'Bachelor' history. Kirkland's Jason Mesnick (a single Dad with young son Ty) and Molly Malaney met on Season 13 of the show. They fell in love, but Jason gave the final rose to a different contestant, Melissa Rycroft.

Haunted Seattle: 14 of the spookiest spots in the city

RUFFined Spotlight: Dahlia the Toy Poodle

Likes: Murder mysteries and popcorn. Dislikes: Bath time.

Step it up: Climb these iconic Seattle staircases

Seattle features hundreds of outdoor stairways tucked away in its often steep and hilly landscape, with 100 of the 600+ situated in Queen Anne.

Expecting a Baby During a Pandemic: The Sacks Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Splish Splash: Open water swimming is on the rise amid COVID-19

As COVID-19 wreaked havoc on schools last spring, educator Kelly Danielson found relief from stress and uncertainty by plunging into the sea that surrounds her home on Bainbridge Island. The school-based occupational therapist undertook an epic challenge — a 45-mile swim around Bainbridge, including all its harbors and shoreline crevices.

There's an indoor Christmas tree lot at Nordstrom in Bellevue

Please don't yell at us about delivering Christmas news before Halloween — it's not our fault! Blame Nordstrom in Bellevue, because they launched a new indoor holiday tree shopping experience this week. (Image:Mat Hayward) While it may seem a bit early to start thinking about buying a holiday tree to some, for others it might just be the pick-me-up they need to smile in these tough times! (Image:Mat Hayward)

Photos: Exploring Seattle's secret Pocket Parks

Looking for a little less crowded Seattle park to enjoy a social distanced mid-day break?

Laura Burkhart's art is a celebration of PNW beauty

Her pieces are magical, making you feel like you can bring the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest inside. "I just love making art. " Simply put, artistLaura Burkhart's work is a celebration of what surrounds us. "If I can just recapture the beauty out there that I see, and capture it on canvas, and someone else and can connect with it, I just see it as the transfer of good energy. " The multi-talented creative does it all - including drawing, design and painting.

Macklemore, Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews on lineup for virtual Save Our Stages Festival

Macklemore is joining the Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews,Miley Cyrus, FINNEAS,Kelsea Ballerini and dozens more for theSave Our Stages Festival, happening on YouTube Friday to Sunday, Oct. 16-18. YouTube Music and the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) announced the lineup Thursday (Oct. 8). #SOSFEST, hosted by comedian and musician Reggie Watts, aims to raise money to save and support independent concert venues around the country.

You're in for some scary fun at STAR 101.5's Georgetown Morgue

STAR 101. 5's Georgetown Morgue might just be one of the scariest places in the Northwest; and we know firsthand! A while back I went Full Zombie, layering my face with thick makeup and a scary costume. I even became part of the team here, frightening everybody who had the courage to walk in the Morgue Maze. Me, back in 2016. And last year, our Brandon Burnstead got into the mix at the Morgue. This place is ~spooky~.

Local teen's 3D printing skills helped local docs with serious mask problems

Since the start of the pandemic, so many people in our community have gone above and beyond to help others. Just a few of the many heartwarming stories that we've shared includeThe Herbfarm, a gourmet restaurant in Woodinvillethat pivoted to start serving hot meals to medical staff - and the local couple behind Funkycold Co. who lift people's spirits with their beautiful and delicious cookies, that they donated to Children's Hospital other front line workers.

Photos: Zoo's red panda cubs are getting cuter by the day

Back in May, the Woodland Park Zoo welcomed two red panda cubs among more than a dozen other baby animals born during quarantine!

Lake Stevens kindergarten teacher goes viral on TikTok

In these challenging times, many locals have stepped up to share their talents - and make things better for others. Refined has shared so many of these stories including theBellevue teen who built a website to help local restaurantsor the Issaquah native who created a food delivery service for at-risk individuals. Because of the pandemic, back-to-school has been especially hard for students and teachers this year.

Live life uncompromised at Skyline: An exceptional senior living community

On a bright fall day, Mary Whitmore places a budding mum into a spot she has prepared in the Skyline community garden, careful to position it to get the best light from the October sun. Mary pauses to enjoy the views from the rooftop patio before pressing the soil down around the crown of the plant. "I've always loved to garden," she says.

Still Open: Seattle-area pumpkin patches & their COVID-19 safety guidelines

Fall and the traditions that come with it will, like everything else this year, look a lot different. From the closure of movie theaters for scary movie showings to state officials guidance on Halloween, this year is just WEIRD. Like many, one of my favorite things to do in the fall is go to a pumpkin patch - and I was curious to know whether any would still be open this year. And if so, what safety procedures would be in place so my family could be safe but still have a fun outing.

Review: Blumhouse debuts new scary movies with 'The Lie', 'Black Box'

The clock strikes midnight on October 1st, and it's official: scary movie month has begun! For those of us who delight in blood, guts and a lot of bumping and jumping in our seat, there are plenty of classics to revisit time and again as we countdown to Halloween. However, we'll never say no to new content, and the leader of scary movies is sweeping in with some killer options. "Welcome to the Blumhouse" is an anthology of films with a focus on thrillers and psychological dramas.

Dare to Enter: WA's First Haunted Drive-Thru

Expecting a Baby During a Pandemic: The Haynes Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

RUFFined Spotlight: Memphis the Terrier Mix

Artist of the Week: Melissa Misoda

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 art?

Photos: Seattle landmarks go purple for Alzheimer's awareness

Photos: City of Seattle, original artists collaborate to preserve Black Lives Matter mural

The City of Seattle and VividMatterCollective have joined forces to properly recreate and preserve the fading Black Lives Matter mural in Capitol Hill. The Collective, comprised of the 16 artists who painted the original piece in June, gathered this week to remove, repaint and make permanent the "landmark celebrating progress and change during this unprecedented time in Seattle’s history. " The mural is located on Pine St. between 10th and 11th Avenues.

Local couples are saying 'I Do' to adventure elopements

You could say that at Seattle Refined, we love. Sharing couples' stories through our Documenting Love series sets our hearts aflutter! Due to the health crisis, many weddings have been put on hold, but some local couples are pivoting and opting to celebrate their union in a totally unique way - outdoors in a gorgeous natural setting.

How massage therapy can alleviate symptoms of whiplash from car crashes

Car crashes range in severity from parking lot fender-benders to high-speed highway collisions. A lot of attention goes toward how the vehicle looks afterward, but the physical effect on the people inside those vehicles should never be ignored. Even if the crash looks minor on the surface, the crash victims may have suffered lasting damage that only a medical expert can diagnose.

Hunter Rose Jones: Child cancer survivor, YouTube Star

"A lot of kids don't make it. Hunter Rose Jones is one of the lucky ones. " During a routine dental cleaning, Hunter Rose's dentist noticed a bump in the then 4-year-old's mouth. "It only took a week for a cancer diagnosis and treatment to begin" said her dad, Jay. "We were told that Hunter Rose had high risk stage four neuroblastoma. Childhood cancer wasn't even on our radar at all, she didn't have any symptoms. " (Image: Family ofHunter Rose Jones) Jay called it a "family diagnosis. "

Photos: Visiting Fort Worden State Park, the most haunted campground in WA

If you search Google for haunted places in Washington, you'll quickly notice the number of times Fort Worden Historical State Park pops up.

RUFFined Spotlight: Bruce the 'Floofy Bear'

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Bantle Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Veronica Lynn Harper

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!

Photos: Pasado's Safe Haven adds new facility, 'more calming experience' for rescue dogs

Paint Pouring: The DIY trend anyone can do

There's a trendy new way to create one-of-a-kind amazing abstract art. Not only is it easy and fun - there's no skill needed! It's called Paint Pouring and ANYONE can do it. With paint pouring, it's easy to create an abstract image of the ocean. (Image: Seattle Refined) Some ideas: create a piece that reminds you of roaring waves at the beach, or one that echoes the magic of the galaxy.

UW students create virtual college campus in Minecraft video game

As of Sept. 22, they have about 80% of the campus built to scale.

Section 221 at T-Mobile Park is filled with cardboard animal cutouts

The crack of the bat. The pop of the glove. The sweet sounds of Mariners baseball. The action on the field looks pretty much the same as any other season, but instead of fans - the stands at T-Mobile Park are filled with cardboard cutouts, and section 221, well it's home to some of the M's furriest supporters.

Commit to your future with a written retirement plan

Does thinking of retirement planning bring thoughts of fear and uncertainty? It doesn't have to be that way! The Retirement Solution works with people who are nearing retirement to help bring clarity to their dreams and equip them with the knowledge to transition with confidence. If you're thinking about retiring, your vision can become a reality when The Retirement Solution shows you how to navigate the planning process.

Photos: 8 products that make remote learning a little easier

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Riley Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Photos: Candlelight vigil in Seattle honors life, legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Photos: 'Peace & Love March' honors Jimi Hendrix 50th Anniversary Memorial

Documenting Love: Arielle & Blake's Story

Photographer/blogger/genius Alexandra Celia has devoted her career to documenting love in its purest and most original form — which you'll see in her photos. Now and then, she will share her work with couples: their love story, their commitment, their passion.... and of course, their photos. Think of her as our Love Guru. She loves love and is here to share it with the rest of us.

Review: In 'Antebellum,' 19th century atrocities have never felt closer to home

The title alone makes you pause. The word "antebellum", broken down, means "before the war", but it's hard not to feel its connotations, particularly with the social and cultural upheaval of the last few months. "Antebellum" is often used, by some, with fondness about a period of time in our nation's history where society was high, innovation was rampant... and human beings were enslaved.

Private tours take off at Seattle's Museum of Flight

If having the entirety of The Museum of Flight in South Seattle to yourself sounds like a good time - read on! The museum is offering private experiences for groups of four or less in some of it most beloved galleries starting at about $50 per person. “This gave us an opportunity to show off the museum in an entirely different way that we couldn’t do before,” said Ted Huetter from the Museum of Flight. (Image: Seattle Refined)

'In This House' sign company raises $75k+ for largely WA charities

Rather than waking up feeling hopeful on New Year's Day 2017, Tara Clark instead felt heavy and disenchanted by the barrage of news stories filled with uncertainty, fear and hatred. The former Peace Corps volunteer, mother of two boys and self-employed photographer could not allow herself to give in to the hate and fear and instead decided to foster connection to humanity and change.

Donate Now: Washington Wildfire Relief Fund

We are joining KOMO-TV and KOMO Radio and partnering with the Salvation Army's Northwest Division to collect money for “Sinclair Cares and The Salvation Army: Washington Wildfire Relief. ”The fires have scorched several parts of eastern and western Washington, threatening property and homes for the state's residents. If you would like to donate to the effort to help those affected by the wildfires, your monetary gift will be appreciated. Donate online now.

RUFFined Spotlight: Solcita & Lana Linda the Baby Alpacas

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Rice Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

'Moving Food Where It's Needed': Local nonprofit gives rescued crops to those in need

EastWest Food Rescue, a recently established nonprofit organization in Woodinville, evolved out of a Facebook post trying to rescue a ton of crops to distribute to food banks. In the first 15 days, the team had already rescued 217 tons of food. With a mission of "moving food where it’s needed," the organization purchases surplus food from farmers and distributes it to those in need.

Photos: Surreal scenes from Seattle as smoke douses city

The Wandering Ear music program is 'dedicated to delivering the feels'

WhenDaniel Mathia went to theUniversity of Arizona four years ago, he didn't really listen to music, aside from Christian music. But when a friend introduced him to Spotify, his world opened up. The now 24-year-old started listening to indie, indie-pop and other genres, slowly but surely expanding his music catalog. From there,Mathia's passion for music grew and grew. He ended up leaving college to come home to Kent and said the situation was stressful. He turned to music.

Artist of the Week: Jason Matias

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?

Photos: Mask Parade features hundreds of masks by Seattle's best artists, designers

Snoqualmie Casino partners with Eighth Generation to offer authentic Native American art

With new safety guidelines in place, Snoqualmie Casino is welcoming guests again to the entertainment capital of the Eastside. When you decide to visit Seattle’s closest casino, you’re probably expecting the wide selection of slot machines and table games, as well as delicious dining options inspired by award-winning chefs. You stay for the buzzing atmosphere, but before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the Sno Shoppe and discover the newest addition to Snoqualmie Casino.

Photos: Rent a 'Private View' at Sky View Observatory for the perfect high-end date

Archie McPhee Delivery, Its Van-Tastic!

Archie McPhee now offers local delivery of your favorite toys, gags and other fun items! They've also recently introduced a bevy of new products sure to put a smile on your face. Watch the video to learn more! WARNING: Racing actual roaches not recommended (if you watched the video you'd be in on the joke). Watch it!

Dave Matthews to perform at virtual benefit concert for local farms

Dave Matthews and several other Pacific Northwest musicians are coming together in support of local farms. Love the Land is a virtual benefit concert taking place Wednesday, Sept. 30 and hosted by theWashington Farmland Trust, a nonprofit protectingthreatened farmland, and Viva Farms, a nonprofit preservingsustainable farming out ofSkagit and King counties. Joining Matthews on the lineup is Luz Elena Mendoza of Y La Bamba, Torno Nakayama and Naomi Wachira.

Photos: Touring Seattle's quirkiest, most unique landmarks

RUFFined Spotlight: Ginger the Samoyed

Expecting During a Pandemic: The Weber Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Jing Jing Tsong

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?

Review: Live-action 'Mulan' is unrecognizable for fans of the original

There is a lot of pressure riding on "Mulan", Disney's latest live-action adaption. For one, its $200 million price tag, even with a traditional release, would have required a lot of Millennials to rush to the theater. Factor in a global pandemic, a sliding economy and no tangible end in sight, and Disney's best hope in recouping their money is by charging $29. 99 to those who already pay for a Disney+ subscription. I understand it. I support it. I just wish the film wasn't so tepid.

5 gorgeous dog-friendly hikes to do this fall

With summer winding down, we’re now entering the ideal hiking season in the northwest. The temperatures stay warm, but not hot, the mosquitoes are starting to hibernate and the crowds dwindle as the kids go back to school. Many of the more popular fall hikes don't allow dogs, but fortunately, there are still plenty of dog-friendly hikes outside of the restricted areas to enjoy fall colors with your four-legged pal by your side.

How to throw an epic QuaranTeen birthday party

Things have definitely been different the past six months, but there is still plenty to see, do and celebrate. We've shared some awesome ideas like100 Things to Do in Seattle Right Now or Very Soonand even a destination for 'little' overnight vacation atLeavenworthTiny House Village. And speaking of fun things - birthdays are still happening and they deserve to be feted just like they were in the 'before times.

Flowers Just 4-U has served Seattle with love for 36 years

If she had to choose, Mary Wesley would say Alstroemeria is her favorite flower, with sunflowers following close behind. But when it comes down to it, all flowers are her favorite flower, she said. It's what she's dedicated the last 36 years to — her floral shop on the corner of 23rd and Cherry. "I love flowers," saidWesley. "I was always playing around with sticks and stones and flowers at my home. I think this is something God has given me, and I got to give it back to the community. "

RUFFined Spotlight: Rusty the Chow Mix

A Surrogacy Journey During a Pandemic: The Hepton Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

Artist of the Week: Erica Daniels of Emazing Photography

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?

Electric Feel: Seattle's Best Neon Signs

Sneak Peek: Salish Sea Tours debuts brand new boats

During the summer, Seattle is usually a hotbed for tourism - but that's of course taken a serious hit because of the health crisis. One struggling spot includes Pier 57 on the waterfront, home to Miner's Landing and the Seattle Great Wheel. And on top of the health crisis, the seawall also needs some emergency work done. But when things are back to normal again, the people at Pier 57 have a new attraction in the works that will make a big splash. And we got a sneak peek.

Dealing with stress during demanding times

COVID-19's impact on society has made times as difficult as ever. Businessmen and women, stay-at-home parents, and students young and old are all battling the unknown during this ongoing pandemic. Stress can significantly impact how you live your life, and learning to deal with it effectively can go a long way toward maintaining your mental health while scientists continue to work on coronavirus therapies and vaccines. How does stress impact the body?

These Peep Shows are turning the heads of neighbors (in a good way!)

Christie and James Kearny create weekly displays with marshmallow peeps to make their neighbors smile. Each show, starring a lineup of iconic characters. "So, I just took all the books out and I was just standing there staring at it and I just had this idea," said Christie. "It was about Easter time, right. So, I just had this idea of doing a Peep Show. " From Super Peep to Jaws, to Wizard of Peeps - these shows are turning the heads of neighbors, who love the welcome distraction.

Hollis Wong-Wear, Valerie Jarrett to headline YWCA's annual [virtual] Inspire Luncheon

Like basically everything else this year, the YWCA Annual Inspire Luncheon is happening virtually — but, hey, it's happening — with Valerie Jarrett, an author and former White House advisor, as the keynote speaker. This will be the YWCA's first fully-digital luncheon, taking place Thursday, Sept. 10. The focus will beWomen Rising Boldly, celebrating those who have used their voices to impact their communities and uplift others.

Artist Keegan Hall has drawn on his talent to give $425,000 to charity

The detail and definition are stunning. There's jubilation in the smiles of Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson, contemplation in the eyes of Ken Griffey Jr. and determination in the stances of Jewell Lloyd and Sue Bird. "I like to typically work from a number of different photographs as references and ultimately create my own composition," said artist Keegan Hall. They may look like snapshots, but they're drawings, created by Hall.

#ShareTheMedicalMic: West Coast doctors reflect on amplifying Black voices in medicine

Many of us were wowed by the recent #ShareTheMicNow campaign, a day during which famous white women handed over their social media platforms to Black women. So we were thrilled to learn that this effort to expand the reach of Black women's voices sparked a national initiative for female physicians, too. For #ShareTheMedicalMic on July 22, two physicians, Dr. Renee Paro and Dr.

Photos: Epic views from the Sunrise side of Mount Rainier

A recent trek on the Sunrise side of Mt. Rainier had photographer Maile Anderson gaping at the views!

This downtown Seattle hotel has been lighting up the skyline for months

When Hyatt Regency Seattle first lit up its rooms in the shape of a heart, social media was buzzing with people sharing photos and videos, most of them accompanied by #WeGotThisSeattle or #SeattleStrong. "During these unprecedented times, we hoped it would serve as encouragement and spark joy for our local community," saidTom Wolf, the managing director for Seattle Hyatt Collection. "Especially to those on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. "

Welcoming a Baby During a Pandemic: The Reynolds Family

Originally, the idea was to write up one article about welcoming a baby during the pandemic. We put the call out on social media hoping for two or three responses, and waaaaaaay more flooded in! We realized people were feeling alone, wanted to tell their stories, and that this may be a good weekly outlet for others going through similar circumstances, and to give hope and power (even if it's through the screen) that you're not alone!

RUFFined Spotlight: Bennie the Black Mouth Cur

Bennie (and the Jets) is a 7.5-month-old Black Mouth Cur (and somehow 6 percent Dalmatian) pandemic pup from a rescue litter in Temecula, CA.

Sorry humans, this gelato is just for the dogs

For the majority of her life, Debbie Hendrickx has been passionate about two things: dogs and fashion. “I never believed doing something with dogs was a valid career option, so I chose a career in the fashion industry,” saidHendrickx. She spent 18 years working for Nordstrom, starting on the sales floor and working her way up to headquarters. Swell, Gelato for Dogs was born from Hendrickx’s love for the smooth richness of gelato that “makes you close your eyes in bliss at first lick.

Artist of the Week: Tori Kirihara

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?

Mask pop-up at Seattle Center features designs by local artists

If you need to up your mask game, look no further than the mask pop-up at Seattle Center this weekend, hosted byThe Vera Project and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Local artists fromThe Vera Project will be screen-printing their designs on masks at this pop-up for the next three weekends in a row. People can watch the process (from a safe distance, of course) and buy a mask for $10. New designs will be offered each weekend.

About To Review: Local podcast aims to amplify diverse voices in film & media

When John Reviewer came across a Kickstarter campaign on Twitter a couple of years ago, he had to reach out and invite the creator on his podcast, About To Review. That person wasMatthew A. Cherry,and the Kickstarter was for his short film, "Hair Love. " Earlier this year, he won an Oscar for it. "It was pretty crazy to think that I had him on my show way before any of that was even a reality; when it was still just in its infancy on Kickstarter," said Reviewer.

Photos: Seattle Kraken opens flagship store in South Lake Union

Review: 'Chemical Hearts' is an angsty young adult mope fest

If your bad poetry from high school about unrequited love for that boy in second period was made into a film, it would be "Chemical Hearts"- an angsty young adult mope fest that beats the cliches of teenage soap operas to a plaid-wearing, meet-in-an-abandoned-factory pulp. Yes, the teen love interests do in fact escape to an abandoned factory housing a mysterious (yet romantic, no? ) pond filled with koi fish.

Virtual conference hopes to advance the careers of technical womxn, diversify the field

Ivette Cortez is the Program and Community Manager of ChickTech, a non-profit organization that supports womxn and girls in tech with community, education and inspiration. We checked in with Cortez ahead of the organization's annual ACT-W Conference to see what is different this year, and what opportunities (spoiler alert, there are many) are still the same... Seattle Refined: Ivette from ChickTech, thanks so much for talking with us today, I want to hear all about ChickTech.

Vortex Music & Movies really sucks you in

Struggling to find your groove on the east side? This Kirkland store may be your salvation — enter the Vortex. "[It's a] conglomeration of vinyl, CDs, DVDs and Blu Rays," said Daren Compton. "I kinda keep an equal balance, with an emphasis on the vinyl. " Compton went into the record business around 2012 and stocks a little bit of everything. (Image: Seattle Refined)