A little business trip to Juneau ...

A unique opportunity presented itself for a little business trip to Juneau, Alaska - which of course I had to say "yes".  You can only get to Juneau by air or sea, there are no land routes as the city is surrounded by significant mountains and more significant ice fields.

Although we are on the cusp of the summer solstice, it can still be cool and down right cold in Juneau; however, this year has been interesting with warm weather and little rain, making for a great time to make the trip.

Juneau is a small community of about 35,000, people that is, and some 20,000 bald eagles and a few thousand black and brown bear. While I didn't cross paths with an brown bears, I did see (from a safe distance or inside a vehicle) several black bears, and the number of eagles of I saw at the base of the glacier was too many to count.  As soon as you leave the downtown area, you are quickly reminded this is a remote wilderness.

Note: When you hotel doesn't have air conditioning and you open the window to get a little air flow, remember to check to see if your room's window is at ground level or might just wake up with a new fury friend joining you.

There are lots of great places to eat or have a drink, but one destination you should make is the Mount Roberts Tramway.  No reservation is generally needed and at the top you can enjoy great views a meal and a beverage.  Since this is Juneau, I had to go with a selection from the Alaskan Brewing Co. of Juneau.

Another recommend for halibut fish and chips is the Sandbar & Grill, located at 2525 Industrial Blvd. just outside of the city center.

Gin: The original flavored spirt ...

I have been wanting to write this piece for more than a year and it finally found its way into the mix for this month's Liquid Libations section of the magazine.  When it comes to spirits, it's all about Gin for me.  While I enjoy Rum, Tequila, and occasionally even Vodka, I am first and foremost a Gin drinker.

I think you will enjoy the article as it teaches you about the history, styles and characteristics of gin. Plus I gave away my recipe for the "Jimmy Hendricks", the ultimate summer cocktail - whether you are making just one or a pitcher full.

You can read the entire piece on pages 205-206 at spokanecda.com

EJ's Garden Bistro ...

This month's food review merits a mention in the main section of the blog as well.  I really love the architecture and history of the newest edition to Browne's Addition Historic District in Spokane, Washington.  I'll have to re-visit the location in a few month's to see if they have improved their service - which is very slow.

The food and drinks were good, and the patio is fabulous.  If you are in the Spokane area or visiting soon, check-out my thoughts and comments in the latest issue of Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living on pages 192-195.

Read the complete article here at spokanecda.com

Seasoning Spokane: Michlitch Company ...

While working on last month's gluten free article, I was introduced to a great local business run by a wonderful couple.  This month's Local Cuisine feature is about Michlitch Company, with long historical roots in the region, they have been blending seasonings since the late 40's.

Take some time to read about the owner, Don and Joyce, then visit them in person or online.  You can read their story and learn more about the store in the June issue of  Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living pages 183-195.

Click here to read it at spokanecda.com