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LO CAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

E N TE R TA I N M E N T

M ADARAK A FESTIVAL: CELEBRATIN G AFRI CAN MUSI C AN D CU LTU RE

W E LLN E S S

BEIN G TH AN KFU L DAILY

F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Arts + Makers We love to support artists and the arts here at Bellevue Lifestyle. Part of that comes from living in an area with so many incredible creators, and perhaps part of that comes from the fact that our local publisher is also an artist. From the Bellevue Arts Museum to the Bel Red Arts District, Emerald Ballet Theatre to the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra, all the art galleries in town to The Chinese Dance Academy; Bellevue has long been friendly to the arts. In this issue you’ll learn about a new performing arts center slated for Downtown Bellevue, a local festival celebrating African culture and music, and one way that fashion and art are working together. We’re also highlighting seven remarkable local artists, who each share a little bit about themselves and their work. I hope you’ll take the opportunity to enjoy some of their work outside of the magazine as well. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Lunar New Year, and in our Events department you’ll find a couple of different opportunities to celebrate. And Valentine’s Day of course - to me it serves as a reminder each year to express love to my friends and family, and I love to see that holiday expanded beyond romantic affections. Whether you treat your loved ones (including yourself!) to a lovely dinner at Ascend or Carmine’s, or stay at home and simply give quality time, I hope you get some meaningful connection from this Hallmark holiday.

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Bree O’Brien | bree.obrien@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Max Baker | max.baker@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bree O’Brien, Caitlin Agnew, Chelsea Oguike, Jason Matias, Diego Fidelis, Kay Bae, Rick Berman, Jordan Bye, Charles Conner, Sue G. Collins C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Carlos Cruz, Rick Takagi, Corky Trewin, Jenn Repp, Jay Taylor

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

BREE O’BRIEN, EDITOR @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Bellevue Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Bellevue area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Bellevue Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

32 18

Featured

26 32 38 10

38 On the Cover

Local Artist Spotlight

These creatives are making the world more beautiful, and making us think

Madaraka Festival Founder and CEO, Simon Javan Okelo.

Madaraka Festival

A decade of celebrating African music and culture

A Future Eastside Destination

A new performing arts center is coming to Bellevue!

Art and Fashion

An Evening of Art Inspired by Fashion

Photography: Carlos Cruz

Departments 8

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

Hot Spot ENTERTAINMENT

Must See LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back WELLNESS

Trend Setter ARTS + CULTURE

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Events

PREPPING TO SELL IN 2024

BEFORE CONCIERGE

AFTER CONCIERGE

Spring is on the horizon, and the Ferrera Team is poised to help you seize the early Spring market by curating a plan for your home sale. In this market, it’s more important than ever that we focus on price, preparation, and presentation, for the most effective results. Ask us about Leveraging the Compass Concierge program we offer, that helps sellers with the up front costs that come with prepping your home for market, such as painting, carpeting, home maintenance, etc. We are here to guide you through this process from start to finish. Get in touch with us today and let's make this spring your most rewarding yet!

Catherine Ferrera, Managing Broker 206.579.1077 / catherine@ferrerateam.com

McKenna Ferrera, Real Estate Broker 425.891.1955 / mckenna@ferrerateam.com

FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1: Toys for Kids wants to shine the spotlight on YOU for joining us at our 2023 Winter Gala, November 4 at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue. 2: YOUR kindness and generosity will bring smiles to the faces of 50,000 children. 3: Thanks to awesome folks like YOU, we can make a positive impact for those who need it most. 4: We’re over the moon that YOU’RE part of our community. 5: We truly believe that it takes a village to help our local kids. 6: Once again, a heartfelt THANK YOU for your unwavering support. 7: YOUR presence has made a world of difference to our mission of supporting less fortunate kids in Washington. Photography by Rick Takagi and Corky Trewin

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ B E L L E V U E L I F E S T Y L E

14 13

MARK WRIGHT

8: Emcee Mark Wright interviewing Chief Hagen at The Bellevue Fire Foundation’s annual Breakfast with the Chief, November 2 at Bellevue Club. 9: Brush Truck crew led by Battalion Chief Tom Fields, Kelsey Creek Farm Manager AnnaMarie Solomonson, team member Alex Minor. 10: Bellevue Fire Foundation Founder, President and CEO Laura McCloud Mathers and Board Member Merideth Tall. 11: Medic One Executives Kim Martin Duncan and Brooks Simpson with Bellevue Councilmember Janice Zahn. 12: Lotus Radio’s Kane Biscaya and Event Co-Chair Kemper Freeman. 13: The Bellevue Collection team: Alesha Shemwell, Jim Melby, Erik Pohle; with Bellevue’s Emergency Manager, Carl Lunak. 14: Fire Chief Jay Hagen spoke about preparing for likely demand increases for fire/EMS services. Photography by Laura McCloud Mathers

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

FEBRUARY 2024

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

PRO Club Joins the Bay Club Company PRO Club, the region’s premier health and wellness club, announced that it has been acquired by The Bay Club, a leading active lifestyle company, effective December 1st, 2023. PRO Club will keep its name and identity, ensuring continuity and expansion of high-quality services. “We chose The Bay Club because they share our vision, culture, and values of providing exceptional experiences and enhancing the well-being of our members and staff," said former PRO Club owner and CEO, Dr. Mark Dedomenico.

Free Naturalist Training Available Through the City of Bellevue

Bellevue Downtown Association's 50th Annual Celebration!

Applications are being accepted for a free Bellevue Naturalist training program, designed to develop a group of dedicated community volunteers trained in environmental awareness and stewardship. The training, open to adults, will be from February 6-April 25, 2024. Training is a mix of weekday evening Zoom classes and in-person (mostly Saturday) field trips. This program is free with a volunteer commitment of 100 hours of service. For more information, please call 425-452-4195 or email Parks_ Stewardship@Bellevuewa.gov.

Join us Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Meydenbauer Center as we honor the people, projects, and partnerships that continue to shape our thriving community. Downtown Bellevue's growth and evolution are a testament to a bold shared vision and five decades of courageous collaboration. Together with hundreds of other city builders and community leaders, we'll celebrate the making of a great place and toast the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Further information and registration at bellevuedowntown.com/ events/annual-celebration.

CONTINUED >

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

business monthly CONTINUED

Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper Opens at BAM

HEADSHOTS by life n light studios

Washi, which translates to “Japanese paper,” has been integral to Japanese culture for over 1000 years; and its strength, translucency, and malleability have made it versatile and ubiquitous. Washi's importance as an artistic medium is due primarily to the ingenuity of Japanese contemporary artists who use it to create highly textured two-dimensional works, expressive sculptures, and dramatic installations. The 37 artworks and installations in this exhibition epitomize the evolving potential of this traditional medium. bellevuearts.org Photography by Kakuko Ishii, Musubu R, 2012, Washi paper (Mizuhiki) and pigment, Image courtesy of the artist,©Kakuko Ishii

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Creating modern heirlooms for life's most beautiful moments.

Wintergrass Music Festival Coming to Bellevue Feb. 22-25 Wintergrass is a four-day, family-friendly bluegrass and acoustic music festival, with concerts and dances on four different stages at the Hyatt Regency Hotel at 900 Bellevue Way NE. There are also music education programs for kids and adults, workshops, impromptu jams, and a chance to see and hear some great music. Visit wintergrass.com for schedules and tickets. Photography by Maria Camillo

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

I ST

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Feathered Heritage, The AmazonArtist

SPOTLIGHT THESE CREATIVES ARE MAKING THE WORLD MORE BEAUTIFUL, AND MAKING US THINK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ARTISTS

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Opposite page: Chelsea Oguike, The AmazonArtist The AmazonArtist’s roots trace back to the vibrant heritage of Nigeria, and she blends artistic talent with a dedication to advancing racial equity. She uses acrylic paint to create a distinctive style characterized by vivid colors, dynamic shapes, and bold compositions with an overarching sense of elegance. Oguike stands on the forefront of creativity and social consciousness. theamazonartist. wixsite.com/theamazonartist

Jason Matias Matias is a photographer with a painterly aesthetic who focuses his work on an idea he calls “Comfortable Isolation.” His work creates space for clarity and solitude for its collectors. “I want people to be able to step away from the world and its distractions to find themselves alone and to feel… okay about it.” Visit jasonmatias.com

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

Diego Fidelis Fidelis lives in beautiful Washington. Born in Brazil, art and music have stirred in his blood since he can remember. As a self-taught musician, he recognized that paintings could have a blending of passion, atmosphere and drama similar to music. He is also inspired by shapes found in nature and architecture. Email: fidelis@ blu88art.com, website: blu88art.com

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | A RTS + CULTURE

Kay Bae Bae honed her skills in collage and various artistic disciplines. With a scientific background, she blends creativity and a systematic approach to explore the beauty of lines, shapes, colors, and spatial relationships in nature and the man-made world. She practices, volunteers and instructs, driven by her passion for art and a desire to share it with others. Kaybaeart.com

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

Photo credit: Anya Jepsen

Rick Berman I have been a maker my entire life, using art to tell stories and express my curiosity about humanity and the planet. Through the marriage of concrete, steel, and color, I honor my values of creativity, spirituality and justice. My current themes include Togetherness, Offering, and Earth (concern for our planet). My work can be found at rickbermanstudio.com

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | A RTS + CULTURE

Jordan Bye Bye has been passionate about art his entire life, and painting professionally since 2013. An abstract artist with an emphasis on organic geometry and color gradients, his paintings are born of whimsical drawings of lines. Jordan’s goal as an artist is to better understand mental health and to create spaces of healing through color therapy and curiosity. jordanbyeart.com CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

Charles Conner AK A The Original Spur Conner has been an artist since age four when he learned to draw Ninja Turtles. He joined the military at 17 and was later called into active duty, forcing him to leave college. Following struggles with PTSD, he now creates one-of-a-kind abstract pieces with vibrant colors and a semi-realistic interpretation of his surroundings from the Black man’s perspective. Creativity, Positivity, Individuality. Theoriginalspur.com

Photo credit: Christian Jones of Pull Photos

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

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A DECADE OF CELEBRATING AFRICAN MUSIC AND CULTURE

Madaraka Madaraka Festival Founder and CEO, Simon Javan Okelo. Photo credit: Carlos Cruz

Festival ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY TAYLOR, EXCEPT AS NOTED

H OT SP OT | ENTERTAI NME N T

Volunteers and fans at Madaraka Festival in August 2022 at Pier 62, Seattle Waterfront Park.

2023 was Madaraka Festival’s biggest year yet! Reaching over 25,000 attendees in events in New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Seattle at Benaroya Hall, Madaraka is the most consistent African festival in the US. This year looks to surpass 2023 with plans for 15 events in 13 cities with a total of 150,000 attendees and 50 million people experiencing it digitally. The Madaraka Festival is a music and cultural festival launched in 2014, “to empower diversity and inclusion in Seattle communities by deepening the relationship between African and African American communities, and fostering partnerships with other international communities to shift the narrative and honor cultural dynamics.” Founder and CEO Simon Javan Okelo says, “What we have learned is there is a need for an authentic African festival that operates worldwide,” and he aspires for Madaraka to be the largest example of that. Inclusivity is a particular focus for Okelo, and he ensures that the lineups include historically marginalized or underrepresented groups, such as those in the LGBTQ community. CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

Okelo started his work in music events before he moved to the United States in 2010. When there was post-election violence in his native Kenya in 2008, he organized a Unite The People Concert, the first public gathering after the violence. Okelo’s One Vibe organization used the proceeds to feed displaced children at the Young Generation Centre in Manyatta slum. This year’s 10-year anniversary festival in Seattle will be held at the Neptune Theatre on June 17. Okelo wants Madaraka to be a platform for African artists in the US, as 90% of festival artists travel from Africa, with the other 10% being US-based. 2024’s lineup will include Kenyan headliners as well as East African artists from Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and more. Okela wants to express his gratitude to Seattle and the Eastside communities for their support, including corporate partners like Amazon, Alaska Airlines, Titos Vodka, and Kenya Airways. He asks that anyone who wants to support the Madaraka Festival reach out to him via the website madarakafestival.com or Instagram @madarakafestival. Simon Okelo playing traditional Nyatiti music from the Luo community where he comes from in Kenya during the 2022 Madaraka Festival.

Fans enjoy DJ Lace Cadence from KEXP, and local comedian and host of the 2022 festival Dubai Dennis (with microphone).

H OT SP OT | ENTERTAI NME N T

D’banj’s dancers performing during the 2022 festival.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

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UBS Financial Services Inc. Private Wealth Management 225 108th Avenue Northeast Bellevue, WA 98004 advisors.ubs.com/thematthewsgroup For more information on third-party rating methodologies, please visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that you understand the ways in which we conduct business, and that you carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to you about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the client relationship summary provided at ubs.com/relationshipsummary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy. UBS Financial Services Inc., its affiliates and its employees do not provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your personal tax and/or legal advisors regarding your particular situation. Private Wealth Management is a division within UBS Financial Services Inc., which is a subsidiary of UBS AG. © UBS 2022. All rights reserved. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. CJ-UBS-626383130 Exp.: 12/31/2023

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A FUTURE eastside DESTINATION A NEW PERFORMING ARTS CENTER IS COMING TO BELLEVUE!

ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN

Did you know that Downtown Bellevue draws over 20 million visitors per year? That’s twice the number that visit Pike Place Market. Downtown Bellevue is the second-busiest location in the state, after Sea-Tac Airport. The population growth on the Eastside, residents’ interest in and support for the arts, and the demand for entertainment and cultural engagement make Downtown Bellevue the perfect place for a world-class performing arts center - enter PACE: Performing Arts Center Eastside.

The PACE concert hall

M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

Slated for development at 110th Ave and 6th St on land donated by Kemper Freeman, there are bold goals for the Center. Executive Director Lora Unger tells Bellevue Lifestyle that the focus of PACE is “To be the catalyst that transforms the quality of life for every generation of the Eastside. It will be the Kennedy Center of the Eastside.” After completion, the Center will host more than 350 performances and events annually (Broadway musicals, plays, cabaret, jazz, classical, country, comedy, and more), partner with Eastside school districts to provide education programs, and build relationships with cultural and other organizations to help shape the future of our communities. PACE has been in development and fundraising phases for a number of years, and Unger has been brought in to bring the project to fruition. She comes from California where she last served as CEO at the Pasadena Symphony Association for nine years. “Lora is perfectly matched for the needs of PACE at this exciting moment in its history,” noted Cathi Hatch, PACE Board Vice Chair and Chair of the Search Committee. “She cares about the arts and community, and is a results-oriented leader with a successful record of transformational change, fiscal growth and team building.”

“After completion, the Center will host more than 350 performances and events annually.” With the support of corporate and individual leaders in the community, PACE will make good on its mission of fulfilling the need for a cultural heart on the Eastside.

Lora Unger

The PACE exterior

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

Congratulations

Drs. Neil Hansen and CR Anderegg 2023 WSDA Citizens of the Year The Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) congratulates Drs. Neil Hansen and CR Anderegg on their selection as the association’s 2023 Citizens of the Year. From the Pacific Northwest to developing countries around the globe, Drs. Hansen and Anderegg have made humanitarian care a priority throughout their careers. Their professional dedication has brought much-needed care to underserved people and communities, sharing their time and talents with those most in need. The 2023 Citizen of the Year award celebrates their contributions and honors their years of service to the profession of dentistry.

Learn more at wsda.org/COY

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Courtesy of Cara Erdman

Being Thankful Daily HOW ONE LOCAL WOMAN IS MAKING A HABIT OF EXPRESSING GRATITUDE

ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENN REPP, EXCEPT AS NOTED

G IV IN G BAC K | WEL L NESS

Local mom and real estate broker Cara Erdman has made being thankful a daily practice. After getting the idea from a book about 15 years ago, Erdman finally decided to take the plunge and commit to writing one thank you note each day. Actual, physical, thank you cards which she decorates with a personalized drawing on the envelope. She sends them to people that have meant something to her over the years, or someone that made a difference for her on just

one day. “It’s not easy every day, but I love that it gives me a chance to touch people in a way that’s deeper than surface level,” Erdman says. At the time Bellevue Lifestyle spoke with her, she was on note #331 out of 365, and will have completed her year commitment when this issue comes out. Asked about how this project has affected her, she says, “I’ve been on the receiving end and know how great it feels to read nice words about yourself. It’s a real mood-lifter.”

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

ART AND FASHION

Special Edition Oscar De La Renta “Pressed Flowers”, Acrylic on canvas, 48x60 inches. By artist Caitlin Agnew.

AN EVENING OF ART INSPIRED BY FASHION 38

T R E N D SE T T E R | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Acrylic on canvas, 84x60 inches.

Justin Leggett interviewing Caitlin Agnew at Nordstrom's "Evening of Art"event.

Recently, Nordstrom featured Bellevue artist Caitlin Agnew, highlighting six of her paintings in their “Evening of Art” series. Created by Nordstrom personal stylist Justin Leggett, the event series brings together fashion, art, music, and culture. Leggett saw a need to showcase local artists and provide occasions for them to mingle, and Nordstrom gave him the opportunity to execute his vision. Caitlin is an abstract floral artist, most recently inspired by couture floral designs from brands such as Oscar De La Renta, Chanel, Prada, and Gucci. “Couture fashion has a long history of incorporating florals into their designs, and my most recent piece was inspired by Oscar De La Renta’s Pressed Flower design, which was worn by Anna Wintour at the 2021 Met Gala. When Justin invited me to hang my art at Nordstrom, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to showcase it,” says Agnew.

Acrylic on canvas, 36x48 inches (set of two). Dress by Alexander McQueen.

For more information about Caitlin’s art, visit finchesart.com or @finchesart on Instagram. For more information about Justin and the “Evening of Art” series, visit @justinleggo on Instagram. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Finding a life partner just might be easier than finding someone you can travel with. When the stars align, both partners have an affinity for generally the same kind of vacation, or are willing to compromise. Here are a few ideas for fabulously romantic getaways. Bon Voyage!

Reservations For Two Dreamy destinations for couples looking to get away.

The Willows

Four Seasons Bora Bora FourSeasons.com/BoraBora

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

At the Four Seasons Bora Bora, overwater bungalows line a glassy lagoon, inviting early-morning swims off your own private dock with a bright breakfast table set on your patio overlooking Mount Otemanu. Meander down the paths of the resort to the Te Mahana Spa. With breathtaking lagoon and Pacific Ocean views from twin infinity pools, the treatment begins with a foot massage and then continues with rebalancing rituals starring indigenous ingredients.

The Willows TheWillowsPalmSprings.com

The Pendry

Palm Springs, California

Originally a millionaire’s private luxury hideaway, the Italianate style mansions were built side-by-side. Rooms include oversized tiled showers, priceless antique pieces and a turndown service to make you feel like the royalty you are. Situated at the base of rugged Mt. San Jacinto with views of the Coachella Valley, The Willows is a perfect base for exploring the Palm Springs or hiking the Andreas or Big Morongo Canyons or nearby Joshua Tree. Open September through May.

The Pendry Pendry.com

Park City, Utah Pendry Park City is a contemporary mountain enclave bringing the mastery of Utah’s awe-inspiring landscape to new heights. The resort is nestled in the center of Canyons Village, with slopeside modernist design, luxury service and thoughtful amenities, ideal for a couple’s escape. Rejuvenate the body with Spa Pendry for a couples massage and enjoy the herbal steam room, relaxation spaces, complimentary refreshments, fitness center and access to the hotel rooftop pool and whirlpool, with stunning views of the mountains.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Traveling can be as stressful as it is sublime. Exhausting as it is inspiring. Traveling as a couple requires additional planning and communication with a healthy dose of patience. Much like marriage! But, waking up in a faraway place, exploring unknown terrain together and leaving your routine and all its trappings behind can be therapeutic. You both can take on new roles and release tired habits.

Write new vows over lunch or take a random nap because you can.

Share planning and talk about your goals for the trip. Do you want to completely unplug or will one of you need excellent wifi to call into a few meetings?

If you’re parents, consider setting boundaries for texting and phone calls so you can put the phone away and immerse in one another. Let the kids know you will be checking your phone at a certain time each day (and stick to that). Let the grandparents or caregivers handle the day to day drama.

Take turns charting a course for the day. On day one, you check museum opening times, get the timed tickets and find a nearby spot for a healthy lunch. On day two, you sit back and let your partner call the Uber and source out the perfect shopping district, walking distance to a park. Enjoy the ride, either way. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / BE L L E V UE

FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S F EB RUA RY 3 RD

Lunar New Year at The Bellevue Collection The Bellevue Collection Read through the dining guide to choose a wonderful restaurant, and enjoy photo ops, displays and a daylong celebration with performances in Bellevue Square’s Center Court. Visit bellevuecollection.com for all the details. F EB RUA RY 8T H

JazzClubsNW High School Jam Session Crossroads Shopping Center, 15600 NE 8th Street, Bellevue | 6:00 PM JazzClubsNW is proud to sponsor a bi-monthly high school/college jam session at Market Stage. Each jam session is curated by local professional Jazz musicians and open for all Jazz playing high school and college students. Further info at jazzclubsnw.org and crossroadsbellevue.com. F EB RUA RY 1 0 T H

Lunar New Year Celebration 2024 Central Washington University - Sammamish, 120 228th Ave NE, Sammamish | 1:00 PM Join us in celebrating the Year of the Dragon! The diversely talented international community of Sammamish will be featured with activities centered around Asian culture and ceremonial traditions. Event highlights: Vibrant performances, music, dance, visual arts, various interactive booths for kids, and food trucks. This event is free and open to audiences of all ages! Details at sammamish.us/news/events. F EB RUA RY 1 0 T H

Go for the Gold! Challenge for Charity Auction Bell Harbor International Conference Center, 2211 Alaskan Way, Seattle | 5:30 PM Please join us for an evening of fun benefitting University District Food Bank, Special Olympics of Washington, and Boys & Girls Clubs of King County. Challenge for Charity is a non-profit organization focused on developing business leaders with a lifelong commitment to community involvement and social responsibility. More info and tickets at c4cweekend.ejoinme.org/Auction2024. F EB RUA RY 1 1 T H

Bellevue Symphony Winter Concert Meydenbauer Center, 11100 Northeast 6th Street Bellevue | 3:00 PM FEATURING FOUR of the SIX WORLD-CLASS PLATINUM MEDALISTS of the 2023 Bellevue Symphony Concerto Competition! JULIA YI, violin | CHARLES LEE, cello | JANE KWON, piano | TAIYO OISHI, piano Tickets and program at bellevuesymphony.org F E B R UA RY 2 8T H

2024 Women's Leadership Conference Meydenbauer Center, 11100 Northeast 6th Street Bellevue | 12:00 PM A unique learning and networking opportunity for women professionals in the region, WLC participants will spend half a day learning key networking and technical skills from recognized businesswomen in our community. Speakers include: Laura Clise, Intentionalist, Angie Nuevacamina, NY Life Insurance, Becky Mulligan, MOD Pizza, Rohre Titcom, Seattle Storm, and more! Visit bellevuechamber.org for more info and to register.

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EVE N TS

I try to draw the best out of everybody on the job site – every day.” Randy Zuehlsdorf Superintendent WITH ROBERTS GROUP FOR four YEARS