Travellin' tunes... top ten.

Firstly, sorry about the alliteration... secondly, I thought to myself this morning, 'how ready am I for the open road?' Maybe I'm not quite back in the groove of things, but roadtrip season is fast-approaching -- I know this because folks have been grumbling that the Yellowstone trip we made a pact on will slip through our fingers like a kid's greased face from between stair balusters.

Perhaps I'm too quick to tag Yellowstone as a curious kid who knows better, but I came to the stark realization that few of the planning bases have been covered. How about the five w's? Or the timeless college kid thoughts: how can I afford it? (This last one may already be solved if we can truley fit all of us fraternity men into one rig next to the mountain of sandwiches we're sure to bring.) Possibly more important than all those minor details is what would we possibly want to listen to on the 8 hours 24 minutes of driving (one way). I don't plan on strong-arming a monopoly over the radio by any means, but I figure I needed to do my part in tunage contribution.

Here's what I've come up with, so far:

The Band - The Weight
This might be my favorite for the early morning trek. I'm not a huge fan of Easy Rider, but the soundtrack is one of a kind.

Dispatch - Two Coins
What's cooler than Dispatch? It's hard to listen to them and be upset at the same time.

Dobie Gray - Drift Away
Drift Away has a good feel to it. Stressing out and this song aren't compatible, but driving long-distances and this song definitely are.

Paul McCartney - Heart of the Country
It's feel good, and that's what travelling needs.

Tom Petty - You Don't Know How it Feels
Not too into all the lyrics here, but sometimes I just crave a harmonica -- especially with my feet propped up out of the passenger-side window. It's true.

John Mark McMillan - Death In His Grave
This link is to a short video clip of the song being played, but I still think the grip of how awesome this song is remains evident.

Mark Mathis - Wasteland
These lyrics and I have shared a lot of thoughts in the last year, and I'm all about not talking sometimes just to be pensive and reminisce for a bit.

The Primitives - Crash (The '95 Mix)
I stole this idea from Dumb & Dumber, which is timeless as far as movies go.

Las Ketchup - Asereje (The coolest version, which somehow may only exist on my itunes)
I can't seem to find the amazing version I have online, but that's ok. I tried to figure out how this song fits, but all I could come up with was that it's plain old amazing...only the cool version, though...take my word for it.

The Beatles - Here Comes the Sun
This song might just say it all. Maybe it's cliche that I threw this on here, but don't judge. The song stands for its self.

Upscale Getaway

Spokane, Washington is a city rich in history. Throughout this remarkable city, you can view old, beautiful buildings of all kinds, but there is one that you will drive by that is hard to miss; The Davenport Hotel.

The Davenport Hotel has been known for its quality service and excellent experience since 1914. Rated as the top hotel in the large city of Spokane, The Davenport gives its customers the most memorable, high class experience, all while allowing them to feel the rich culture of Spokane.

With a range of rooms, dining, and events, The Davenport is a great getaway for any college student who may be looking to spend some time away from t he college environment of Pullman.

Although the prices are higher than a large majority of the hotels found throughout Spokane, The Davenport makes it all worthwhile.

If you are looking for something different, or looking for a classy time away from the Palouse, The Davenport Hotel is sure you give you an amazing time.

For more information, visit the hotel’s website or call 1-800-899-1482

A Breath of Fresh Air

Being a college student, I’m sure we all can agree, is one of the most exciting, adventurous times of our lives. Going to classes, being bogged down with homework, and making sure to keep a very busy social life can at times seem overwhelming; this is why I suggest a close, peaceful getaway.

Nearly over an hour away, in Spokane, Washington resides Manito Park. Driving an hour may seem like a hassle just to visit a park, but I can assure you, this is unlike any other park you may have seen.

This ninety acre park is home to five gardens, which hold some of the most immaculate flowers known to the state. Another perk of this park is its large pond, home to swans, geese, and ducks.

Manito Park is one of Spokane’s most talked about visitation areas, and for a great reason. So, next time you are feeling stressed out, and want a place to go spend a peaceful, relaxing day without having to travel very far, I strongly urge you to make this short drive.

For more information, visit their homepage

Local Idaho Girl goes to the 2010 Winter Olympics!!!

As I sit and watch the winter Olympics on television, I keep catching myself re-looking at videos of all the amazing athletes and their performances. Here is another video that I found. This one is really interesting to add to our blog because this particular athlete is from Idaho. Morgan Arritola is a skier and a snowboarder from the Sun Valley area.

Below is a video that shows an interview after her skiing race.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bn2VoCRjdmE

Shaun White Olympic Professional Snowboarder

Due to the topic of the week being mountains that we have visited around the Pacific Northwest, I thought that it would be a good idea to look at U.S.A professional snowboarders and skiers from the 2010 Olympics.

Below is a video of Shaun White at the Olympics:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfPUkiteICs

Bloomsday!!

Bloomsday is one of the largest and most recognized annual events held in Spokane. First started in 1977, Bloomsday is a race that invites runners from all over the world to participate in. The first 15 finishers of Bloomsday receive a cash prize of up to $7,000.

However, the great thing about Bloomsday is that anyone can participate. Whether you are looking to compete for a title or participate recreationally, the race is available to anyone of all ages and abilities. Everyone will receive a shirt at the finish line and their name and time will be posted in The Pacific Northwest Inlander.

To participate in Bloomsday you must first register and pay a fee of $15. From there you will select a time bracket that you would like to be placed in. This time bracket allows you to run, jog, walk, or wheel with others who will be completing the course at approximately the same time as you.

I have run Bloomsday 5 years in the past, and each time was a great experience. It allows you to be active with your community, and spend time outdoors. If you are a local of Spokane, don’t miss out on a great opportunity.

This year Bloomsday will be held on May 2, and the race is 7.46 miles long. To register or get more information visit Bloomsday 2010.

Riverfront Park

One of my favorite places in Spokane to spend the day is Riverfront Park. Accommodating to people of all ages, Riverfront Park has several activities that everyone can enjoy. The park is located downtown and overlooks the Spokane River, which is a perfect location for the gondola rides that are held at the park . The gondola, also called the SkyRide, allows you and 5 other friends to take a 15 minute, all enclosed ride over The Spokane River and Huntington Park. I personally believe the best time of year to go is late March or early April because the river is usually very rapid and high, which provides a breathtaking view.

Another great attraction at Riverfront Park is the Carousel. Some of the greatest memories from my childhood are of when my parents took me to the Carousel. However, even now I still enjoy riding the Carousel because it is beautifully constructed and has so much history. There are 54 horses, 1 giraffe, 1 tiger, and 2 Chinese dragon chairs that you can choose from on the Carousel.

The next part of Riverfront Park that I suggest visiting is the Red Wagon. Even though it is mainly a children’s attraction, it is a monument among the park and is always remembered by visitors. The Red Wagon serves as a slide and is 12 ft high and 27 ft long! The plague on the Red Wagon, dated August 18, 1990 reads: "This sculpture is dedicated to Spokane's children, as a reflection of the past, created in the present, to last into the future." - The Junior League of Spokane.

The last few places I suggest visiting before leaving the park are the tour train and the ice-skating rink (if it is open). The tour train takes guests on a 40 minute trip through the park, to enjoy the beautiful view and scenery of downtown Spokane. If you visit the park between the months of October and March, you can enjoy ice-skating in the Ice Palace as well.

If you find yourself in Spokane, I suggest spending a day outdoors at the park where you can enjoy several fun activities! For more information visit Spokane Riverfront Park.

Benifits of good snowshoes

While snow and travel are still in discussion, check this link out

http://www.ehow.com/how_4705230_make-pvc-snowshoes.html

Sometimes the trails just aren't tough enough, and snowshoes can help prove that.

My friend Phil McGuire sporting homemade snowshoes at the Bennington Lake Reservoir near Walla Walla

PVC and webbing constructed snowshoes used in the field - near Walla Walla

Snowmobiling the Blues

In a near snow-less winter, the avid snow sports enthusiast may be feeling the blues in and around Pullman. But one needs to look no further than Eastern Washington's own Blue Mountains. Not much more than an hour and a half away and just south of Dayton in Columbia County, snow adventuring awaits in almost all forms.

If you're all about skiing or snowboarding, Ski Bluewood might have what you're looking for. Otherwise, snowmobiling trails are in abundance -- not to mention trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Maybe a quick drive south is in order...just saying.

Ski or Snowboard at Schweitzer!

Since this winter has been exceptionally mild and warm, skiing and snowboarding opportunities have been few and scarce. However, this should not stop the avid skier/snowboarder from enjoying time on the slopes. Growing up with a father who is an excellent skier, I was only 5 years old when I learned to ski. Therefore, I spent many winters of my childhood at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

Schweitzer not only has the most beautiful trails and scenery in the area, but provides endless entertainment opportunities. After a day of hitting the slopes, you can enjoy your evening by relaxing at the bar, hot tub, pool, or restaurants at the Selkirk or White Pine Lodge. Other activities offered at Schweitzer Mountain Resort include: shopping, air boarding, spa services, campfires, pottery painting, snowshoe hiking, Nintendo Wii Competitions and much more!

Nothing beats a long day of skiing followed by a night of hot-tubing under the stars, overlooking the white powdery slopes. The atmosphere at Schweitzer provides a feeling of nostalgia and comfort. A weekend at Schweitzer allows one to escape everyday responsibilities and worries, and enjoy some fresh air on the mountain.

Schweitzer’s slopes accommodate beginning, advanced, and even professional skiers and snowboarders. A few of my favorite runs include: Grant’s Nosedive, Cathedral, and Kathy’s Yard Sale. Each run at Schweitzer is different from the rest and provides skiers/snowboarders with a unique experience.

Before heading home, don’t forget to stop and check out Sandpoint village. Sandpoint is a small, quaint little town at the bottom of Schweitzer Mountain. Sandpoint is home to unique, local, and festive boutiques and shops that cannot be experienced anywhere else. This little city provides visitors a local look into the heritage and culture of Idaho.

For directions and more information visit Schweitzer Mountain Resort!

Enjoy a day or weekend at Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park.

Another enjoyable mountain resort to visit is Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park located in Washington. Only about two and half hours away from Pullman, students can easily make a day trip, or stay for the weekend at Mt. Spokane.

Although not as large as Schweitzer, Mt. Spokane offers skiers/snowboarders great runs, a terrain park, a tubing hill, lodging and dining. The terrain park includes features like: rails, jumps, battleships, rainbows, and kinks that allow skiers and snowboarders a place to free style.

The tubing hill is another great activity found at Mt. Spokane that offers non skiers/snowboarders a great way to enjoy the mountain. Children, teens and adults can all enjoy sliding down the mountain on a tube. Discounts are available to groups of 10 or more.

Get out of Pullman for a day or weekend of exercise and time well spent enjoying some fresh air. Even if you do not partake in skiing or snowboarding, you can enjoy some peaceful time on the mountain participating in other activities the park has to offer.

For more information and directions visit Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park!

Snowy Snoqualmie Summit

If you are like me, and have been spending maybe a little too much time watching the winter Olympics, you may feel inspired to get out in the snow and attempt to glide down a mountain with as much ease as the athletes.

Although it is unlikely that it will be as effortless as the professionals make it look, it doesn’t mean that it will be any less fun!

Snoqualmie Pass is a ski resort located on I-90 that many Washington State University students pass on their yearly trek to school. The pass is the largest of three east-west mountain routes across Washington state, and is kept open year round.

Whatever age you are, and whatever amount of experience you may or may not have, I suggest you head over to Snoqualmie Pass. It is not only beautiful, but it is a blast!

Visit their homepage for more information

Mountain Adventure

One of the many perks that come with living in the pacific north-west is the beautiful mountains that surround us. We may take for granted the fact that we have some of the best mountains to hike, ski, and sight-see on, so it is my job to make sure you know exactly what you are surrounded by.

For those cold months that we Washington residents are far too familiar with, the mountains offer us a range of adventures to partake in. My personal favorite: snow sports.

The Crystal Mountain ski resort is inside the Mount Rainier National Park, and is only 76 miles away from Seattle. There are a large range of trails and slopes, ranging from ‘bunny-hills’ for the beginners, to extreme slopes for the experts.

Another plus are the mountain’s back-country woods for those who enjoy a more personal, quiet experience with nature.

**A personal tip for those of you who may not have a large car that can easily take on snowy roads is to take their shuttle that runs every 30 minutes.**

During the season, Crystal Mountain is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, and from 8:30am to 4pm on the weekends. Tickets for adults are sold in both whole day sessions, which are $58 for a full day and half day sessions, which are $53.

Equipment rentals are offered on the mountain, which is very convenient for those of you who may only want to go a couple of times a year.

So next time you are feeling adventurous, and feel that the cold winter weather is keeping you from having fun outdoors, take a look outside and look at the beautiful mountains that offer you all the fun you need!

Moscow consignment store stocks retro threads

A day well spent is often a day well adventured. In this same endeavoring spirit, Rylie and I thought it might be wise to hop on the Wheatland Express and explore Moscow once more, so we met up in the morning and got on the bus just in time to leave Pullman.

Because our stomachs were getting the best of us, we made an unplanned stop at Moscow Bagel on Main Street to refuel before continuing our browse of the city.

Upon being greeted by the aromas of steamed bagel concoctions and fresh ingredients, my thoughts were consumed by the prospect of an "Egg McMahon" feast, loaded-up with scrambled egg, sausage and choice American cheese -- all sandwiched on an everything bagel.

When we went to check-out, one of the guys working there asked me where I procured my ancient Wrangler western shirt. He asked if I made the purchase at The Storm Cellar, as he thought he'd seen the shirt there recently. I politely replied that I had found it at a second-hand store in Walla Walla over the break...but "Storm Cellar? What's that?" I asked. The employee told me that it was a consignment store and to go and check it out. Located near Sister's Brew, it wasn't more than a 70-80 second stroll away, so Rylie and I made the small trek.

When I first set foot in there, I was greatly blown-away. Maybe it was the fact that everything I ever look for in a reasonable thrift store was all that was available there and in good stock and condition, or possibly it was how clean and orderly the store was, but overall I made an instant connection with the store. Imagine the best finds you've ever uncovered in a second-hand store or consignment store. Now imagine that all of those finds were centrally located in one store -- a store featuring hand-chosen items that are all worthy of garnering your attention. Maybe it's odd to compare a consignment store to an album, but The Storm Cellar is basically the 'greatest hits album' of second-hand stores without a doubt.

And, to complete that thought, just as I had picked out the shirt I was wearing in second-hand store as one picks out a diamond in the rough, I found what was basically the cousin to what I was wearing (a quick peak to the right in this photo might explain that one a bit better.) Point proven, I think. This store basically has it all -- Vintage SLR cameras, folk instruments, retro house-ware type stuff, hats, shoes, boots, local goods and crafts, and other desirables. If you get a chance, stop in there. The prices are really affordable and the amazing finds are abounding.

After taking it all in, Rylie and I headed over to Sister's Brew to sit, relax and drink coffee. Nothing beats unwinding from a week than chilling in a coffee shop on a rainy afternoon with good coffee and good conversation. Overall, the trip was good and an ideal, fun and inexpensive way to spend a Friday.

What to avoid on a roadtrip

Have you ever seen the movie, Road Trip? Well everything done in this movie should be avoided in order to have a successful road trip.
NEVER...
1. Try to jump a bridge in your car
2. Steal a bus from a disability center
3. Ask your waiter to re-make your food at a "hole-in-the-wall" diner

To see more on what NOT to do on a road trip watch the 2000 Road Trip Trailer

Passing the time on a road trip

At only 21, I have taken several road trips in my life. In middle school and high school I was on a premier soccer team, the Spokane Shadow, and would travel nearly every weekend to compete against other teams. Packing for a road trip became habitual, and therefore I became very knowledgeable on the best items needed for the trip.

1. First, I would never leave without music. I didn't have an ipod back then, so I packed my disc-man with plenty of CD’s. Now, I would recommend a soothing play list full of your favorite artists. I personally never go on the road without music by John Mayor, Counting Crows, Jack’s Mannequin, Dave Matthews, Alanis Morissette, Coldplay, King’s of Leon etc.

2. Bring something great to read! Whether it’s the latest book I’m reading or just some fashion magazines, I never leave without reading material. However, if reading makes you carsick then stick with music and conversation.

3. If your road trip is 3 hours or more, bring snacks. I like snacks that are mess free, and don’t need to be refrigerated, so I recommend food like: celery and peanut butter, pretzels, cheez-its, grapes, fruit roll-ups, almonds, pistachios etc.

4. If you like interacting with your passengers, don’t forget games. One of my all time favorite games to play in the car is catch phrase. Bring something that passes the time and is fun!

5. Never forget to bring a pillow and blanket. Many times I fall asleep in the car, and without a pillow and blanket it can be very uncomfortable.

6. The last and final recommendation I have for a road trip is a sightseeing journal. I personally like to document the scenery or unique shops and restaurants that I see. This way I never forget a great experience.

Healthy Snacks to Take on the Road

When planning road trips...snacks are always included into the plan. However, sometimes the snacks people choose can add up to unwanted pounds. Therefore, I went on a mission to research some of the best and healthy snacks to eat whether you are traveling with friends, a spouse or even kids! Here are some of the best snacks that I found:

1.Quaker Quakes
2.Fruit such as: grapes, strawberries, blueberries
3.Popcorn
4.Cheese and Crackers
5.apple slices and peanut butter

Lastly, don’t forget some napkins and a cooler to keep your healthy snacks staying fresh!

Top Ten Close Vacation Spots around the Pacific Northwest

Due to our blogs theme of travel, I thought that it would be only appropriate to find out where the best locations to visit for people who are looking for a get-away. According to Tripadvisor.com, here are the Top ten places that are typically visited by many Washingtonians and Pacific Northwest residents:

1.Whistler, B.C – A popular skiing, boarding in the winter and a great place to travel, hike or zipterk in the summer.

2.Tofino, Vancouver Island- This former fishing village is a great get-away to whale watch in March, storm watch in February and amazing restaurants to try out!

3.Saltspring, Island, B.C- A fun trip that would include breathtaking scenery and unique restaurants and cafes.

4.Cannon Beach, OR- In Washington there are not many beaches that people can visit. Cannon beach allows a seaside vacation down the coast of Oregon that allows one to appreciate the beauty of the ocean.

5.Snoqualmie, WA- I live right near Snoqualmie, Washington and if you have never seen the spectacular waterfalls…I suggest you visit them immediately!

6.San Juan Islands, WA- These Islands allow you to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a relaxing time away. Here you can kayak and stay in some beautiful lodges.

7. Mount Rainier, WA- Everyone who comes to Washington State already has heard of the breathtaking Mount Rainier. For a nice day trip you can see the mountain and check out the national park!

8. Mount Hood, OR- Another mountain to admire where there are easy paths, ridges to explore and the 1930’s Timberline Lodge.

9.Bend, OR- A hip and local town that is surrounded by a rustic setting. Here there are great galleries, local wines and some excellent skiing.

10.Victoria, B.C – Is a near -by large city that offers endless opportunities and adventure!

Chris Larson Interview

Artist Chris Larson speaks to students and faculty following his lecture.
Photo: Sean Parsons

Production by: Sean Parsons and Emma Cloninger

Yellow Dog Flats Concert Clip

Below is the link to the audio clip taken live from last week's Yellow Dog Flat's concert held in Moscow's Attic. Enjoy!

Yellow Dog Flats

Last week I had the opportunity to hear a local band from Moscow perform at a place called “The Attic” located in Moscow, Idaho. I wanted to try something new and exciting so I looked on the Moscow Co-Op website to see local events happening around the area. This is where I spotted a name of a group called “The Yellow Dog Flats”.

The band consists of Ben Barton, Gary Reed, and Jim LaFortune. This unique band plays anything as long as they are having fun! A lot of their songs have a old day and modern day country twist! Check out their myspace to hear some original songs from the band!

Myspace Page

*Also look out next week when we put up an audio clip of their live concert!

"WWE Smackdown” Visits Washington State University

If you’re looking for some new entertainment to watch at Beasley Coliseum…..come watch the World Wrestling Entertainment perform! The two wrestlers include Rey Mysterio vs. Chris Jericho who are the #1 Contender's Match for the World Heavyweight Championship.


This event will take place on Saturday March 6, 2010. WWE Road to Wrestle Mania tickets will be available at the Coliseum Box Office ONLY. Tickets are $49.00 but well worth the money!

*Click Here for WWE Theme Song*

Did Someone Say Road Trip?

Spending a lot of time packed into a car doesn't seem like the best form of entertainment, but I think I have something to help you. Before you plan on taking your next road trip, take a look at the links below -- they might help you out! From games to play in the car to helpful packing lists, the following links are sure to assist next time you plan on traveling by automobile!


Road Trip Car Games

Top 10 Road Trip Games

Road Trip Must-Haves

Car Trip Essentials Checklist

Road Trip Planning

Road Trip Rescue

Being that we live on the eastern side of the state, we are often times far away from larger cities that we may want to go visit. If you are one of those people who are planning a long road trip to a far away destination, such as Seattle, take a look at this list of albums. Whatever type of music you may favor, any of these are a great way to occupy your ears for the ride!

- John Mayer – Battle Studies
- Rick Ross – Deeper Than Rap
- Damien Rice – B Sides
- Lil Wayne – Rebirth
- Taylor Swift – Fearless
- Jason Derulo – Whatcha Say
- Lady Antebellum- Need You Now

Movie Night

Are you a movie fan who is tired of paying ten dollars to go see a movie? Is your small T.V. not doing some of your favorite films justice? Try something new and watch a movie cinema style, here on the WSU campus!

The Student Entertainment Board (SEB) is introducing a new event called SEB Film Series.

Every Friday and Saturday at 6pm and 9pm, and Sundays at 4pm and 7pm, SEB will be showing recently released movies, cinema style, in the CUB auditorium.

So, if you are like most of us who are on a budget, but still want the movie experience, SEB Film Series is a great option for you! Get some friends together, bring some snacks and spend the night watching great new movies, on a huge screen, for FREE!

For more information, and a list of movie titles, click here

Heads Vs. Feds

Legalization of marijuana: a highly controversial topic that is very prominent on our campus at Washington State University.

We all know what it is like to have to sit through a boring lecture that is mandatory for class, but the debate, “Heads Vs. Feds” is anything but that.

On February 24 at 6:00 pm, a debate on the legalization of marijuana is being held in the CUB Ballroom.

The debate is between two profound speakers on the topic, Steve Hager, editor of High Times Magazine, and Robert M. Stutman, a DEA veteran.

This is a college tour, and while looking at reviews of it by other colleges online, it seems that the debate is highly praised.

The perk of going to such an event is not only will it inform you on a topic many of us students have strong opinions on, but it is a cheap form of entertainment. Students get in free, and it is only $5 for the public!

So mark your calendars for February 24th, and go on over to the CUB Ballroom for an intellectual and interesting look on the highly controversial debate of marijuana legalization.

An excuse to drink beer!

For all of you students 21 and older, check out the beer tasting event on February 17, in Moscow Id. at the Moscow Food Co-op from 6-9 p.m. The owners of Old Schoolhouse Brewery will be there with three of their beers to taste.

The Coug and Stubblefields are great places to kick back and grab a beer, but why not try something new in Moscow? For more information and directions, go to Moscow Food Co-op.

Chris Larson

Chris Larson, a contemporary artist from St. Paul, visited the WSU Fine Arts building on February 3, to present his latest exhibition,"Pause". Chris Larson is no ordinary artist, and his collection surprised, shocked and awed viewers. Larson’s work ranges from film making, sculpture, and architecture. Among many of the extraordinary pieces in this collection, two of my favorite were his "frozen shotgun shack” and a wooden sculpture depicting a spaceship crashing into a house, both from his films. (seen in the picture to the left)

This collection was inspired by a true event of a railroad entrepreneur who crashed two trains into each other, resulting in an explosion. Chris Larson was interested in the collision of two separate entities, and based his collection on this idea. Through his work, he wanted to make art come to life, and he wanted his art to disturb and shock viewers.

After talking with Chris Larson, I was able to understand why his work is so important. Larson is not interested in making art for a specific purpose, but likes creating art that people are not used to seeing. He wants to create things that cannot happen, and produce art that is absurd and disturbing.

The exhibition was absolutely beautiful, extraordinary, and strange. Since the collection is so odd and absurd, it made me appreciate his work for being so unique and eccentric. I liked that his motivation behind his collection was not for any specific reason other than producing things that are not ordinarily experienced in every day life. It was refreshing to see art that was so different from any other collection, and which made me think about art and life in a new perspective.