Bellevue, WA December 2022

Lakeview Terrace Modern Farmhouse

Best of the Best

I’m proud to present the “Best of Bellevue 2022” edition.  Due to many requests, this year we made room for more winners and added more categories.  This last issue of the year celebrates the very BEST of our city. As always, voting was open to the public, and the nominations that came in are 100% from our readers and community. Ranking as one of the top cities to live, not to mention one of the most expensive, it’s no small feat to be crowned the “Best of Bellevue.” Add in the challenges of the last few years –it’s amazing these businesses are not only surviving but thriving.

As a business owner myself, I admire the hard work, creativity, persistence, optimism, integrity, i.e. chutzpah, that all these businesses encompass. Seriously, it’s no small undertaking. And that’s exactly why we do this issue. If you think a category or business was missed, send us your feedback…there’s always next year!

Thank you to everyone who participated and showed their support throughout 2022. Let’s make next year even better.

Happy holidays and wishing you a very happy and healthy new year.

It’s such an honor to to receive your votes for 'Best Real Estate Agent’ for 2022! Being able to help people call Bellevue home is a true blessing. If we haven’t met, I look forward to connecting with you in the future! Thanks again Bellevue,

city scene

Where

neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Bellevue LifeSpring’s Uncork the Night, benefitting Bellevue children, was a huge success! 2: Uncork the Night Master of Ceremonies, Kaci Aitchison, and Auctioneer Matt Lorch were a crowd favorite. 3: Uncork the Night is a great event to connect with other Bellevue community members around giving back. 4: Guests enjoy Uncork the Night — a celebration of wine and giving benefitting Bellevue children. 5: Uncork the Night guest raised their bid cards to give where they live for Bellevue kids. 6: Bellevue LifeSpring Board Member Julie Cheng Bui and her husband Tom Bui pose for a photo. 7: Uncork the Night Guest Speaker Shomari Jones, Director Equity and Strategic Engagement, Bellevue School District Photography by Red Fish Blue Fish Photography

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1: Former NFL star Sidney Rice and northwest entrepreneur Tim Lenihan, at the launch event for their new Walla Walla wine label, Dossier. 2: Dossier is a new Washington wine brand inspired by the region’s great potential, local talent and distinctive terroir. 3: Dossier celebrated its launch at The Lakehouse Bellevue. 5: The first releases are the 2019 Syrah, 2021 Rosé and 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, all sourced from some of the best vineyards in Walla Walla and the Yakima Valley. 6: Sidney Rice and Chef Jason Wilson of The Lakehouse Bellevue at the launch event. 7: Guests gather to celebrate the release of Dossier's inaugural wines and its plans to build a winery in Walla Walla. Photography by Dossier

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The most magical season at

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

IBT’s The Nutcracker Brings A Holiday Ballet Back To The Eastside

This December 9th-23rd, the International Ballet Theatre’s annual production of The Nutcracker returns to The Meydenbauer Theater in Bellevue. A decades-old Christmas tradition, this timeless ballet has become a family event to remember. Staged with traditional choreography, exotic Arabian dancers, and a fierce battle with soldiers and mice, let our cast dazzle you with a spectacle of the ages. Join Clara and her handsome prince on their journey to the land of sweets. To purchase tickets visit ibtbellevue.org.

Photography by Rex Tranter

At our Gin & Gingerbread Workshop, adults get their chance to celebrate in style! On Friday, December 9, from 5:30–7 pm, slip away from the holiday chaos and unwind with friends (and grown-up beverages) as you decorate your own gingerbread house. Make all your home and garden dreams come true with our pre-built houses and confectionery decorating materials. At this adults-only workshop, we take care of the mess and you let go of the stress.

Each year, Leavenworth transforms into a winter wonderland as more than half a million Christmas lights deck the village. Every day from December 1st through February 28th you can enjoy the lights anytime as they now remain on every day! This December you can expect to see midweek concerts plus fully programmed weekends of entertainment, Christmas characters and activities plus caroling, roasting chestnuts and more!  Visit:  https:// leavenworth.org/christmastown/.

Leavenworth Kicks off a Magical Season with their Village of Lights-Christmastown!

Classy Celebrations for Kids at KidsQuest Children’s Museum

It’s New Year’s Eve! But wait, what if your bedtime is 7 pm? Even the smallest celebrants will have a good time at the all-day celebration at KidsQuest. Our New Year’s Eve Countdown starts at 9:30 am on Saturday, December 31, and keeps on rockin’ until 5 pm. With special activities every hour, and the famous bubble-wrap stomp four times throughout the day, you can dance out all the wiggles with glee and go home before bedtime.

40th Annual Boy Scout Troop 626 Tree Sale

Starting Friday, November 25th, this fundraiser supports year around camping for the 45 scouts, including snow camping and Klondike derby. You can expect top-quality customer service by the scouts, a large range of tree choices, Wreaths from Girl Scout Troop 52818, complimentary warm apple cider and candy canes. Held at

the Newport Hills Swim and Tennis Club, through December 21st, open from 5-8 Tuesday through Friday and weekends 9-8. To learn more about scouting, talk to a scout at the sale.

The Bellevue Collection Presents 'Hawks Live' Broadcasting Live at Bellevue Square

Join The Bellevue Collection on December 1st and 8th for their new broadcasting live from Bellevue Square’s Center Court during the 2022 NFL Season. The program is hosted by Seahawks broadcasters and former players, Michael Bumpus and Paul Moyer. Fans have an opportunity to engage with Seahawks players and alumni, receive an opponent preview of the Seahawks upcoming matchup, expert analysis, in-person inter views with a Seahawks player, and have multiple chances to win gift certificates towards dining in The Bellevue Collection. Visit bellevuecollection.com/hawks-live/ for more information.

H E A D S H O T S

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Bellevue

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS

MN Custom Homes is proud to partner with local nonprofits dedicated to providing shelter and assistance for our neighbors and the greater good of our environment.

Learn more about how MN Custom Homes gives from our strengths.

local experiences

Experience the tastes, sounds and sights of what our area has to offer this season. We curated a list of ways to celebrate the holidays and usher in the new year in our city. Enjoy!

Snowflake

SNOWFLAKE LANE : Experience the wonder of falling snow, dazzling lights, festive music, toy drummers, and dancers in this complimentary nightly parade of holiday floats nightly at 7 pm. 227 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue , WA

THE BELLEVUE DOWNTOWN ICE RINK: presented by Symetra is the region’s largest seasonal ice skating experience, with more than 9,000 square feet of real ice. NE 1st St and 100th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA

GARDEN D'LIGHTS: features over half a million sparkling lights formed in the whimsical shapes of plants, birds, animals, and cascading waterfalls set amid the natural beauty of the Bellevue Botanical Garden. 12001 Main St, Bellevue, WA

NYE AT SUITE: Ring in the New Year with style at Suite Restaurant/Lounge. Surround yourself with elegance and adventure, reserve your VIP experience today. All tickets include entry and party favors! 10500 Ne 8th St Bellevue, WA

SALISH LODGE AND SPA: “Teas The Season” for this beloved annual tradition! This fanciful holiday event includes a variety of Salish signature teas, delicate tea sandwiches, scones and desserts. 6501 Railroad Ave Se Snoqualmie, WA

to recommend a local experience? Scan

Photography by The Bellevue Collection

I decided to participate in 20/20 LifeStyles to address some health challenges I’d struggled with for a while. I had high cholesterol, was borderline diabetic and was considered borderline obese based on my BMI. Also, I’d been on anti-depressants for about eight years and cholesterol meds for a long time and I wanted to get off them.

One of the things that really appealed to me about 20/20 is that it’s focused on all aspects of weight loss. It’s not just about seeing a lower number on the scale. I met with a licensed counselor and doctors, in addition to my personal trainer and registered dietitian. Also, all the testing and blood work was very impressive.

If I had to pick one aspect of the program that was my favorite, I’d probably go with the nutrition appointments. My dietitian gave me a really good base to work with moving forward. I learned to cook some tasty dishes, including the turkey burgers and the spicy fish, which I really like—and my family does, too. They already did pretty good with their eating and exercise habits – but they’ve started to eat more of the food I make. It’s nice to share that together.

A really cool part of the program is the genetic testing. It helps guide the workouts the trainers create for you, as well as the nutrition program the dietitians create for you. I found that I have a high tolerance for caffeine, which was surprising—and welcome news!

I think the biggest change for me is simply that I’m down to a weight that I haven’t been since I was in my 20s. Even when I was in great shape in my 30’s, I wasn’t as lean as I am now. I’ve met my weight loss goal, and with one month left to go, I’m shaving off another 5 pounds of fat. The good news is that my clothes fit better. Actually, they no longer fit! I had to buy all new pants, shirts and shorts!

My energy level has gotten so much better, and my mood and overall outlook on life is better. I’m exercising regularly now, too. Running, taking walks and working out is all part of my everyday life.

If I could share three tips I learned from the program that helped me reach my goals, they’d be:

(1) Start tracking what you eat.

(2) Work out at least 3 or 4 times a week, and make sure to include strength work.

(3) Set a specific time every day for exercises. It’ll help you build a habit you can keep long-term.

My experience with 20/20 LifeStyles was incredible, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to get serious about improving their health.

A HEALTHY BONUS TO START YOUR JOURNEY

Are you ready to change your health for good? Medically-based, physician-guided 20/20 LifeStyles can help.

Come in now for a one-onone personal consultation and receive a $125 PRO Club gift card redeemable for any Pro Club service or product to support your healthy journey.

Visit 2020lifestyles.com to schedule a private consulation.

Dr. Mark Dedomenico 20/20 LifeStyles founder

The “Best of Bellevue” votes are in!  Each winner was chosen by YOU. Not by a software program, not by throwing darts, and not by a small group of opinionated people cloistered in a soundproof room. Congratulations to all who won!

BEST HOME REMODELER

LOCHWOOD-LOZIER CUSTOM HOMES

LOCHWOODLOZIER.COM 425.576.9200

Lochwood-Lozier Custom Homes has been servicing Bellevue for over 35 years. As a Design-Builder specializing in luxury custom homes, extensive renovations, and landscaping their experienced team is in a unique position to provide one-point of accountability for their clientele through an ‘A-Z’ approach. From feasibility, pre-construction, architecture, interior design, estimating, build, to home maintenance, they work with each client from concept to completion.

MNCUSTOM.COM | 425.429.6645

MN Custom Homes, LLC is the leading in-fill builder on the Greater Seattle Eastside through building Thoughtful Homes that Inspire Community. Founded in 2011, the company has combined the seamless personalization of a custom home with the efficiencies of in-fill spec construction. Known for its commitment to community, MN Custom Homes has earned the reputation for making meaningful change in the community and environment through support of Jubilee REACH, Imagine Housing, and the Arbor Day Foundation.

In addition to winning multiple “Best Places to Work” awards, they also hold back-to-back “Builder of the Year” accolades from 425 Magazine, and more recently "Best Home Builder" from Bellevue Lifestyle. For more information visit mncustom.com.

BEST ARCHITECT BAYLIS ARCHITECTS

BAYLISARCHITECTS.COM 425.454.0566

Baylis Architects is a full-service design firm contributing quality architecture to Pacific Northwest communities for 50 years. In every project, Baylis creates opportunities to build strong relationships with clients, investors, and tenants. The firm’s wide range of successful projects include community buildings, medical facilities, commercial buildings and retail spaces, multi-family residences, and custom homes.

LOCHWOODLOZIER.COM 425.576.9200

The Landscape division of LochwoodLozier Custom Homes, Tri-Scape Landscaping, offers uncompromising quality and craftsmanship in every design. Tri-Scape creates timeless landscapes that include softscape, hardscape, waterscape, and everything in between. By incorporating materials and the architectural style of your home, Tri-Scape establishes a visual marriage between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Additionally, their landscape team can be contracted to perform routine and proper maintenance to keep your yard looking its best. Let them create an outdoor oasis for your home that family and friends will enjoy for generations to come.

BEST HOME DECOR VERITABLES

VERITABLES.DESIGN 425.455.8335

Inspired by the shops on the Left Bank in Paris, Veritables purveys classic design with a modern sensibility. Whether you want a few updates to fall in love with your home again, or are starting from scratch, you will be transported by the thoughtfully compiled and edited collections of furniture, accessories and gifts. Marie Harris offers full design services and can help you identify the style that resonates with you by combining diverse concepts - comfortable and elegant, vintage and modern - to align your way of life with your ideal environment.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER INTERIORS BY POPOV

BYPOPOV.COM 425.403.6060

Interiors by Popov is a PNW-based design studio that specializes in delivering visually stunning, highly-functional interiors that seamlessly integrate form and function above all. Helmed by Anna Popov—a creative visionary with deep technical knowledge and a European savoir-faire— the firm’s ethos is rooted in a systematic approach to intentional design—each space is uniquely tailored to serve as a sanctuary and a support system to each particular homeowner(s) based on their everyday needs and how they want to live. Interiors by Popov’s homes are livable, beautiful, contextually relevant, and sensorially invigorating.

Best Landscaper, Tri-Scape/Lochwood Lozier

Best Home Decor, Veritables

Best Interior Designer, Interiors By Popov

BRITTSPICKS.COM | 206.683.1737

When you love what you do, it shows. Winner of Best Real Estate Agent 3 out of the last 4 years, Britt credits her success to an unyielding commitment to putting her clients' best interests above all else. Passionately focused on the highly-nuanced Bellevue market, Britt deploys her hyper-local expertise and strategic process to work for winning results in any market cycle.

PEOPLE.RATE.COM/IAN-OLSEN 206.660.3861 Ian spent much of his 20+ career in Finance, Securities, and Business Development. Ian began his sales career on the trading desk as a Licensed Muni-Bond Trader. He was among the founders of a web-based MuniBond Platform, and subsidiary of SNWSC, BondNexus, used in the origination and dissemination of over $2 billion in municipal bonds. Following the sale of BondNexus, Ian built a successful mortgage business; personally originating nearly $1 billion in funded loans in his career, and routinely among the country's top 10% of producers.

BEST COFFEE SHOP MERCURYS

MERCURYS.COM 425.307.1988

BEST BAKERY

COFFEE CO.

THE FRENCH BAKERY THEFRENCHBAKERY.COM 425.590.9640

BEST DESSERT FOGROSE ATELIER FOGROSE.COM 425.223.5879

BEST BRUNCH

THE LAKEHOUSE

THELAKEHOUSEBELLEVUE.COM 425.454.7076

BEST JUICE BAR PRESSED

PRESSEDJUICERY.COM 425.454.0592

BEST COCKTAIL BAR ROUGE

COCKTAIL LOUNGE

ROUGEBELLEVUE.COM 425.454.8455

BEST CASUAL DINING 520 BAR & GRILL 520BARANDGRILL.COM 425.450.0520

BEST SUSHI JAPONESSA SUSHI COCINA JAPONESSA.COM 425.454.1585

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT CARMINES

CARMINESBELLEVUE.COM 425.786.0160

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT CACTUS CACTUSRESTAURANTS.COM 425.455.4321

BEST

CATERER 24 X 68 CULINARY, JOHN E. THOMPSON

2468CULINARY.COM 206.825.2030

24X68 Culinary exemplifies passionate comfort cuisine prepared with modern techniques and craftsmanship. Our pursuit of excellence in food and dining is showcased in vintners dinners, family celebrations, corporate retreats or customized meal plans prepared for your family to take some of the pressures of life off your plate. How can we support you?

BEST FINE DINING ASCEND PRIME STEAK & SUSHI

ASCENDPRIME.COM 425.625.2080

Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi offers an unparalleled, elevated dining experience in the heart of downtown Bellevue. The award-winning, fine-dining restaurant showcases the Pacific Northwest’s best views from the 31st floor, matched with an inspired steak and sushi menu. From Prime and Waygu beef to innovative sushi, the menu also features premium seafood, mixologist-crafted cocktails, and an expansive wine and sake list, all presented with exceptional service.

PUREBARRE.COM | 425.462.7474

Katie Wallis is the owner and operator of Pure Barre Bellevue and Pure Barre Kirkland. Katie has been in the fitness industry for over 20 years and has a passion for building best-in-class experiences and developing amazing teams. Katie is northwest born and raised. She grew up locally and currently resides on the eastside with her husband, two kids, and dog named Cooper.

BEST

BLACKBOTTLEBELLEVUE.COM 425.223.5143

BEST

ELEVATEFITLIFE.COM | 425.240.0410

Elevate Fit Life provides an energizing atmosphere with the most comprehensive strength training and nutrition programs. From our high-energy group classes to our private training sessions, EFL has all the tools to help you hit your goals. In an industry where fitness can be found just about anywhere, we stand out as a local small family owned business because we value each member’s individual journey.

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE SMITH & MAIN SHOPSMITHANDMAIN.COM 425.505.2604

BEST FLOWER SHOP CITY FLOWERS CITYFLOWERS.COM 425.454.0882

BEST FINE JEWELRY JOSEPH JEWELRY JOSEPHJEWELRY.COM/ 425.453.8258

BEST TRENDY JEWELRY GIN AND THE BANKER GINANDTHEBANKER.COM 425.454.2280

BEST NAIL SALON CINDY NAILS CINDYNAIL-BELLEVUE.COM 425.453.5467

BEST HAIR SALON JOE BAE SALON JOEBAESALON.COM 425.519.9951

BEST FITNESS CENTER BELLEVUE CLUB BELLEVUECLUB.COM 425.455.1616

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY DR. KATHERINE KIM - SAGE MED

SAGEMED.CO | 425.679.6056

Dr. Katherine Kim is an encouraging and knowledgeable provider dedicated to helping patients rehabilitate their injuries, so patients can continue to do what they love. An enthusiastic advocate of living a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Kim strives to help her patients achieve overall wellness. Recognizing that every patient has unique goals and abilities, Dr. Kim expertly tailors her treatments to reflect the needs of each patient.

BEST NATUROPATH DR. SAGE WHEELER - SAGE MED

SAGEMED.CO | 425.679.6056

Dr. Sage Wheeler is the Founder and Medical Director of SageMED, an integrative health center in Bellevue, WA. His vision to create a place where physicians and supporting providers of all types can work together to provide the best of naturopathic, functional, East Asian, and modern conventional medicine has become a reality. Dr. Wheeler provides primary care with an emphasis on men's health, sexual health, hormone therapy, and regenerative injection therapies. He also enjoys teaching other physicians, is an accredited residency supervisor, and lectures nationally about men's health and hormone therapy.

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON THE STERN CENTER -DR. FREDRIC STERN

STERNCTR.COM | 425.455.9100

Dr. Fredric Stern has been a leader in surgical and non-surgical treatments in downtown Bellevue for 25 years. He and his team are passionate about creating natural appearing results while employing state-of-the-art techniques which include injectables, laser treatments and radio frequency microneedling to delay and reverse the aging process, all while providing an outstanding patient experience in a warm and caring environment.

Dr. Katherine Kim

Dr. Fredric Stern

Dr. Sage Wheeler

PROCLUB.COM | 425.885.5566

Open to everyone, The Medical Spa at PRO Medical takes beauty to the next level. Driven by innovation, treatments include next-generation methods utilizing the latest technologies in cosmetic dermatology to enhance beauty at any age. Guests also enjoy the perks of a luxury spa and access to the Northwest’s premiere health club. Specialties include laser technologies, injectables, anti-aging, body contouring, and advanced skin care.

LEVYAESTHETICS.COM | 425.463.9883

In a luxurious, boutique environment at the heart of Old Bellevue, Dr. Daniel Levy blends science and art to successfully treat some of the most challenging skin conditions such as melasma, acne scarring and cellulite. He uses an artistic eye combined with obsessive attention to detail to deliver the most natural results in nonsurgical facial rejuvenation. He has also developed an award-winning skincare line which features regenerative ingredients that treat everything from skin wounds to hair loss.

Elevate Your Skincare Journey

Dr. Daniel Levy’s medical-grade skincare products give instant results for skin texture and brightening, acne clearance, hair volume and lash volume. To celebrate our Best Dermatologist of 2022 award, we are sharing this exclusive offer: Spend $200 or more and receive a Skinmedica eye cream and LA lip balm as gifts with purchase, a $100 value. These are the perfect stocking stuffers. To activate this offer, use code bestof22 at checkout. Offer valid through 1/30/23.

Timeless Northwest contemporary elegance brought to life through the master craftsmanship of John Buchan Homes. buchan.com

buchan.com

Paving A Way For Growth

BELLEVUE CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO, JOE FAIN, SHARES HIS “BEST OF 2022”

This year, we’ve been able to reconnect: Socially, professionally, and civically. And it is because of that — this time together, in a shared space — that we were able to make exciting progress on a number of fronts that will benefit our city and region.

The buzzwords around town have trended towards “livable,” and “accessible.” At its core this shows a yearning for belonging, stability in uncertain times, and a space where people have more control over their own time and lives. With these priorities, the Chamber has built our programs around organizational culture, corporate responsibility, public safety, and even the nature of how we view work, job flexibility, and employee wellbeing.

But, above all else, the following movements — since they certainly have an ongoing timeline of growth and impact — were some of my “Bests” of 2022.

The Housing We All Deserve: The City of Bellevue has made strong moves in its work to bring more affordable housing options to our city. The Chamber has partnered with the city with its Next Right

Work initiative, coordinating discussions between countless stakeholders to determine how we can work together to fix the housing crisis. The next 12 to 18 months are crucial as the City Council considers key policies to incentivize and streamline housing construction, adopts a new Comprehensive Plan for development, and rezones critical growth corridors in the Wilburton and Bel-Red parts of the city. I am genuinely excited to see how we can all pool our resources to develop the best mix of housing we can.

Getting Meta About It: Meta officially opened its makerspace-meets-office headquarters in the Spring District this year, ushering in a new era for this cutting-edge neighborhood. The Spring District also earned its LEED certification in Neighborhood Development this year, and the successful opening of spots like the Bellevue Brewing Company are a testament to the area’s mixed-use, transit-oriented design. The Spring District is a leading example of Bellevue’s ongoing renaissance and has set the stage for Bellevue’s next great neighborhoods.

Coming Up Cricket: Bellevue and the Puget Sound region have been paving the way to become a major epicenter for Cricket in the US. With a Minor League championship title under the Seattle Thunderbolts’ belts, and a successful, rapidly growing league at our very own Bellevue Cricket Club, I’m enthusiastic about adding the international sports phenomena to Bellevue’s global identity.

Face to Face, Eye to Eye: This year at the Bellevue Chamber, we produced large, in-person events for the first time since

February of 2020. We debated and celebrated, hosted ribbon cuttings and industry groups, and hosted a slate of high-quality events exploring topics like housing and infrastructure, talent acquisition and retention, and dozens more. And while all of our presenters were fantastic (and let me tell you, they were fantastic) the most riveting part of being back in event-mode has been the energy shared among attendees. Finally regaining the opportunity to build new relationships and strengthen old ones, learn and share ideas, and

ARTICLE BY JOE FAIN, PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE BELLEVUE CHAMBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

feed off the energy of the people and businesses that make Bellevue strong is something we have learned should never be taken for granted.

These “Bests” are varied in nature and ongoing in practice, but I think that is what makes them the best “Bests” to have. Even in uncertain times brought on by pandemic, national and international politics, and economic concern, Bellevue and the Eastside are still paving a way for growth that recognizes our new role as a regional leader and community destination. Here’s to 2023!

ARTICLE BY MEILI CADY

The Nice List

2022 Holiday Gift Guide

As a kid, I thought the best part of the holidays — and perhaps the whole year — was rapidly ripping through colorful, crinkly paper to see what presents were waiting for me on the inside. I remember Christmas mornings at my parents’ house in Seabeck, Washington — sitting on the floor beside my big brother, both wearing brand new L.L. Bean pajamas that had been opened the night before, per Cady tradition. Warm 106.9 would be playing wall-to-wall Christmas classics while we impatiently watched our parents pour coffee and Baileys into mugs and slowly make their way to the sofa. A final moment of pause, then a “go ahead, sweetie” from my mom, and my brother and I would disappear into a cloud of green and red ribbon while we tore through a pile of presents. Our parents would watch us with sleepy smiles and unopened gifts in their laps. I would wonder what they were doing — were they okay? They had packages to open! Why would they want to simply sit there, staring at us while we had all the fun?

It turns out my parents appreciated something I hadn’t yet discovered (and I’m not just talking about the delightful decadence of having Baileys with breakfast). They knew the profound pleasure of giving, and it made them happy just to watch us open the gifts they had put so much thought and love into choosing for us.

As we grow older and (hopefully) wiser, our perspectives and priorities tend to shift. Last winter, researchers surveyed 2,000 Americans to find out what they expected to bring them joy in the upcoming holiday season. After two years of limited in-person interactions due to the pandemic, the

goal was to learn what people were missing most. The results of the survey, which was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Minted, showed it wasn’t receiving gifts. Sixty-eight percent of participants said they were more excited to give presents than they were to receive them, and 57 percent said they were planning to give a higher number of gifts than they had in previous years. Many of the respondents also noted that they would be shopping for a higher number of people as well.

With all this enthusiasm for gifting, the big question remains — what to buy? It’s often not an easy answer, regardless of how well we know the recipient or how much we love them. Ironically, the closer we are, the more we can overthink it.

One guiding principle that I find myself turning to for gift-giving is aiming for something that either sparks joy or plants a seed for it later. For example, a gift that sparks joy might be matching holiday sweaters for you and your dog because it’s too ridiculous not to laugh immediately when you see them, or a cozy new flannel that you can snuggle into right away. An example of a gift that plants a seed for joy later on could be a credit for a relaxing massage. As you open the card, you might not feel a big reaction, but when you go in for your spa day, you’ll think of the person who gave it to you and appreciate it on a much deeper level. Other examples include cooking classes and workshops for crafting ceramics.

We have included all of these and more in our Nice List: The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide on the following pages — and you’ve already got one recommendation in the bag: a bottle of Baileys.

Shop Local

It’s always important to shop local, and it’s easy to do when you live in such a vibrant community of artists and tastemakers. All the below items pair well with a fresh bouquet of seasonal stems from your neighborhood farmers market, and if you want to dial it up from there, you can add a few more market goodies and present them in a locally sewn basket with a bow.

Ted Kennedy Watson’s Guide To Stylish Entertaining, watsonkennedy. com, $37.50

Women's Down Cruiser Vest, filson.com, $325

Cooking classes at Chef Tom Douglas' Hot Stove Society, prices vary

Ceramics classes at Kirkland Arts Center, kirklandartscenter.org, prices vary

Evergreen + Cedar candle, seattlecandlecompany.com, $30

Haxan Hot Sauce Gift Set, haxanferments.com, $28

Doves by Doron Paloma Sky Blue Topaz Ring with Diamonds in 18K White Gold, rionjewelry.com, $1,760

Matcha Almond Chocolate, roycechocolate.com, $19.99

Premier Catch Alaskan King Crab, Premiercatch.com,

Health & Wellness

What could be better than the gift of feeling good in your body? The holidays are a season of indulgence, and many of us want to start the new year with a heightened focus on health and happiness. These gifts are perfect if you know someone who wants to hit reset on their self-care regimen or who is always taking care of others and might not splurge on themselves.

The Metabolism Reset from Sakara (one week of food + supplements), sakara.com, $460

Spa at Suncadia Custom Massage , destinationhotels.com/ suncadia-resort, $200+

Aesop Mouthwash, aesop.com, $25

Cheers Restore Hangover Pills, cheers health.com/products/restore, $35

Shower Foot Massager, amazon.com, $12.95

The All-In-One Facial Set from Hanacure, Hanacure.com, $110

Wellbel Hair Supplements (for men and women), Wellbel.com, $70/mo

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Face Mask with 10.5% Squalan, Kiehls.com, $40

Light Shield from DMH Aesthetics (LED light therapy mask), dmhaesthetics.com, $190

Pets & Pet Lovers

Know someone with a dog who likes to break loose and explore the neighborhood? A GPS tracker could help bring them home. Or, someone with an unusually clever pup might enjoy some “talk” buttons to help them communicate when they want to go outside or eat. Presents that entertain, celebrate, or protect pets are wonderful for the owners who love them and can be beneficial for the animals as well.

Fluent Pet Starter Kit, fluent.pet, $79.95

Mini Dog Treat Maker, nordstrom.com, $19.99

Whistle GPS + Health + Fitness Dog Tracker, amazon.com, $149.95

Custom One Pet Portrait, westandwillow.com, $77

The Great Yukon Sweater, shopdogthreads.com, $42

Zesty Paws Calming Bites for Dogs, amazon.com, $29.97

Wentworth Tufted Dog Sofa, frontgate.com, $278.97

Christian Cowan X Maxbone Jumper, maxbone.com, $95

Wisdom Panel Essential Breed Identification DNA Test for Dogs, chewy.com, $79.99

Beyond the Apps: How Seattle Can Tackle the Mental Health Crisis with Integrated Team-based Care

By Michael Boroff, PsyD

Siloed care delivery by primary care providers and mental health specialists leaves vulnerable patients untreated. Mental health integration is essential to remedying the mental health crisis in the Seattle area and nationwide.

Addressing access for the whole patient.

As of 2020 in the U.S., 52.9 million people, or 1 in 5 adults, experienced mental illness. During the pandemic, 4 in 10 adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder. Unfortunately, in our current paradigm– in which mental and physical health are viewed separately, there’s a shortage of services that address mental health issues as part of a comprehensive care plan, which holds us back from making sustainable progress.

We’ve swung the pendulum on stigma and people are raising their hands for care, but now what? Employers are still grappling with a sea of apps and the best path for integrating care delivery. While society has embraced broader acceptance of digitally-enabled care models, are they really going to “solve” the mental health crisis– particularly when they work in isolation?

More and more, one hears the term “whole-person care” being used. While there is some debate about what that is, in mental health, it’s a technology application that is supported with integrated care along a continuum, not an app in a silo. Certainly there are use cases for apps, but without an integrated primary care provider, there’s no single care partner to guide patients on their mental and physical wellness journey. Fragmented, siloed care actually restricts the visibility of caring providers and further contributes to the stigma associated with mental health challenges.

Treating mental and physical health as one.

The American Medical Association asserts that the solution is found in behavioral health integration (BHI), which incorporates both mental and physical healthcare into delivery of services, in part, through digital enablement. In tandem with traditional interaction between providers and patients, technology that leverages digital tools for functions like screening and intake, telehealth services, and clinical decision support will help engage more people in mental health treatment and aid providers in its adoption and delivery. That’s good news for the entire Seattle community. Further, the AMA and other leading medical associations established the BHI Collaborative, a group that seeks to empower physicians to expand access to mental health services through primary care settings and take a holistic, integrated approach that focuses on the well-being of the whole person.

The AMA has brought to light a very serious issue that many employers are already aware of: the current paradigm – which silos physical and mental health care – is not working. So why do employers here in Seattle– and across the country– continue to settle for less? It’s about to change.

Turning the research into actionable care delivery.

Patient-centered primary health is a straightforward path for patients to see their primary care clinicians and mental health providers in a truly integrated fashion. More and more, employers are embracing an integrated model that engages patients and facilitates adoption by providers throughout the entire patient journey– a journey from access to results.

Backed by data that supports a new model of care.

The data proves the premise: a recent poll found that two out of every five adults suffered from moderate to severe mental health issues during the pandemic also found adults reported difficulty sleeping (36%) or eating (32%), increases in alcohol consumption or substance use (12%), and worsening chronic conditions (12%). Isolation, job loss, health concerns, and excessive worry during this unprecedented time has had a major impact on well-being. A lack of treatment for mental health conditions costs the U.S. more than $100 billion annually.

When desiring help, patients often turn to primary care providers, who report that 70% of all visits include a behavioral health component. In fact, nearly two thirds of people experiencing depression and other common mental health conditions are treated exclusively in primary care settings. Unfortunately, these providers may not be trained in optimal treatment methods, underscoring the need for collaboration with and among mental health clinicians.

Crossover recently evaluated the effectiveness of its integrated approach in responding to the mental health crisis. When comparing the clinical outcomes of more than 3,000 Crossover patients to patients in the community, study results showed Crossover to be significantly more effective than the community in improving overall mental health outcomes.

The data from our study and throughout this post reaffirms that an approach to interdisciplinary care works – and the urgent call for inclusion of mental health within primary care models rings loudly. Mental wellness cannot merely be managed by isolated transactions or singular care episodes. Instead, personalized care of each patient, backed by established doctor/patient relationships, has the power to improve overall quality of life. Isn’t that the result every patient in Seattle, and across the country, deserves?

About the Author

Michael Boroff, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and the Mental Health Program Manager for Crossover Health. He oversees the mental health program across the country and works within Crossover’s integrated, team-based care model, to establish trusted relationships with his patients and their extended care teams to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients.

About Crossover Health

Crossover Health is a leader in delivering valuebased hybrid virtual + in-person care. With a focus on wellbeing and prevention that extends beyond traditional sick care, Crossover is building trusted relationships with employee communities in the Seattle area, both virtually and in-person.

crossoverhealth.com

Look for our state-of-the-art Care Centers

Crossover@Bellevue 188 106th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98004

Crossover@Westlake 1101 Dexter Ave N., Ste 105 Seattle, WA 98109

To learn more about how Crossover is changing employee healthcare in Seattle, scan above.

BELLEVUE ROCKS

ARTICLE BY LYNNE ROBINSON

BELLEVUE MAYOR, LYNNE ROBINSON, SHARES HER "BEST OF 2022"

One of the best things that happened here in 2022 was the Rock ‘n’ Roll running event. Part of a series of half marathons/5Ks around the country that feature live music along the race course, this is the biggest international event to come to Bellevue since we incorporated in 1953.

St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll kick-started our local economy back to pre-pandemic levels, drawing about 6,000 people from outside the region here over Labor Day weekend. Our hotel occupancy rates went up, retail and restaurant visits were up, and at the end of the weekend, the event had generated $6 million in direct sales.

The best part was seeing people from all over the world come together to support children with cancer and their families through the St. Jude Foundation. I first heard about St. Jude from my mom’s best friend Marylou. She was an ardent supporter, and my initial donation to St. Jude was in Marylou’s name. This year, I learned that St Jude not only provides free medical care to every child, but free housing during treatment for the entire family. I was incredibly proud to support this cause in our city.

I met people from near and far, including Japan. I saw residents from Bellevue neighborhoods participate, even my tennis friend Lisa with her entire family. Councilmember Janice Zahn also participated. I received a couple of complaints about loud music on an early Sunday morning, but they were far outnumbered by many rave reviews.

There is something amazing about having a different band at every mile, and then such a great cover band at Downtown Park. The runners and walkers had a wonderful time, while our city was transformed into a cosmopolitan gathering spot. So many participants spoke of wanting to come back to spend more time in Bellevue. They loved our restaurants, parks, beautiful views and, of course, the shopping.

Now I am looking forward to 2023, when our city celebrates its 70th birthday, and I hope the Rock ‘n’ Roll running event be back, maybe as a full marathon! We showed what makes Bellevue such a wonderful place to live, work and play. I can’t believe I get to experience it every day.

“THE BEST PART WAS SEEING PEOPLE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT CHILDREN WITH CANCER AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH THE ST. JUDE FOUNDATION.”

Dr. Gregory Vaughn Dr. Paola Leone

Snowflake {Salt Dough} Ornaments

Old Traditions With Modern Day Trends

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Salt dough, or dough art as we refer to it in our family, is a simple yet beautiful way to adorn spaces around the holidays. Making salt dough ornaments is a holiday tradition that we have been doing since I was a kid in the ‘80s, but the process has been around even longer than that! The use of salt dough is as old as dirt, or I guess I should say as old as clay. Even so, salt dough has made a comeback in recent years and for good reason—it only requires three ingredients, and the festive end product will last for years to come. We still pull out the salt dough ornaments I made as a kid and place them on our tree each year. I love that old traditions can live throughout the decades as we find ways to reinvent them with current day trends. That is exactly what I did here with these lovely Snowflake Salt Dough Ornaments. I hope you follow along to make some yourself this holiday season.

Salt Dough Recipe

*Makes about 12 ornaments

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• Rolling Pin

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• Cookie Sheet

• Parchment Paper

• Lettered Stamps

• Acrylic

• Bakers Twine

Ingredients

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•

•

•

Step-By-Step

1. Mix together flour and salt. Add ¼ cup water and paint (if you want a white dough, otherwise you may leave it out). Stir to mix. If needed, slowly add more water until you reach a pizza dough consistency. Finally, remove dough from the bowl and knead on a floured surface until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Add more flour if too sticky, add more water if too dry.

2. To make ornaments, use a rolling pin to roll dough to ½ to ¼ inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to create snowflake shapes. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top of each snowflake to allow a space to thread your twine after baking.

3. Place ornaments on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours until dry. Flip ornaments every 30 minutes for a faster bake.

4. Once cooled, add decorative touches with lettered stamps, acrylic paint or Sharpie markers. Finally, spray one side of the ornament with an acrylic seal. Let dry, flip and spray the other side.

5. Once dried completely, thread twine through the hole created before baking. Hang from your tree or add to your gift boxes as gift tags.

For more DIY’s and seasonal styling ideas, visit me at silvertoothhome.com . Happy Holidays!

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The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign

Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does.

To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.)

Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amounts up to $3,000 each.) With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue.

“We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.”

City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Where has the campaign gifted?

To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

The Lights of Christmas

STANWOOD, WA

Celebrating 25 years of Christmas magic! The Lights of Christmas is a holiday tradition for families in the PNW. Spectacular lights, dazzling displays, and costume characters create a fantastic Christmas experience. Plus, listen to Christmas music from the comfort of your car on The Lights of Christmas radio station 101.9 FM. Grab your keys, up the kids, and get out of the house for an event with Christmas spirit!

Dinner and Dancing with KidsQuest Children's Museum

KIDSQUEST CHILDREN'S MUSEUM | 6:00 PM

Celebrate the season at KidQuest and enjoy a performance from the senior high school class at City Opera Ballet. Dancers will perform scenes from The Nutcracker at 7:00 pm. Doors open at 6 pm for dinner, special themed activities, and museum exploration. After the performance, stick around to meet the dancers! Pizza and lemonade will be served for dinner for an additional $5 charge.

Celebrate Woodinville Winterfest

WOODINVILLE, WA | 3:00 PM

Celebrate Woodinville this Winter with your friends and families! Our mission is to bring our neighbors together for family-oriented events, encourage a sense of community and promote Woodinville businesses to visitors throughout the Puget Sound region. For details visit celebratewoodinville.com/winterfest .

Award-Winning Senior Living

We put you first in everything we do, which is why The Bellettini has been voted the “Best of Bellevue” for the fourth year in a row!

We remain committed to providing Bellevue seniors with beautiful accommodations, premier wellness programs, culinary delights, extraordinary amenities, and luxurious lifestyle.

Call (425) 274-2759 or TheBellettini@mbk.com to schedule a tour today!

1115 108th Ave. NE. Bellevue, WA 98004

TheBellettini.com

Rougebellevue.com

(425) 454-8455 10204 Main Street Bellevue, WA 98004

Intimate speakeasy-inspired atmosphere. Serving craft cocktails and small bites.

North America’s #1 provider of custom window coverings and the most established name in smart home technology team up to give you total smart home integration.

DECEMBER 10TH Winter Wonderland

KELSEY CREEK FARM | 1:00 PM

In the Pacific Northwest, we don't get much snow. Instead, we have to make our own snowy fun! Come to Kelsey Creek and make wonderfully wintery crafts, visit some furry animals who know how to keep warm in the snow, and warm up with some hot cocoa! To register visit: https://register.bellevuewa. gov/php/onlinereg/.

DECEMBER 11TH 12k's of Christmas

MARINA PARK, KIRKLAND, WA 9:00 AM

Get your reindeer dance on and join us for the 12k’s of Christmas, December 11, 2022. There will be a 5k and 12k route that will start and end in the parking lot of Marina Park. This is a perfect event for families to celebrate the holidays. The energy of this race is amazing and a great start to the holiday season!

DECEMBER 18TH

Flow in Dark Yoga Class

LE CENTER FOR HEALTH 6:45 PM

Flow in the Dark Yoga Class with Nina Mork. Join us for an exclusive class offered once per month. Glow stick necklaces & bracelets for everyone! We'll turn off the lights and light up the space with black lights. Le Center for Health & Wellness is offering this class for everyBODY. Beginners and family are welcome!

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Bellevue