Greet Sample Pub - West Bellevue

Making a Difference with the Button Family

A Social Publication for the Residents of West Bellevue • November 2022

COVER PHOTO BY NATALIE WALLACE

IT'S ABOUT TIME!

BELOW: PANERAI

A NATURAL BLEND OF ITALIAN DESIGN, Swiss TECHNOLOGY AND PASSION FOR THE SEA

ABOVE: JAEGER LECOULTRE INSPIRED BY THE FIRST CALENDAR WATCH LAUNCHED IN 1945 -

November is Watch Appreciation Month at Alvin Goldfarb Jeweler

BELOW: BREITLING DESIGNED TO ENDURE THE MOST CHALLENGING OF VOYAGES

ABOVE: OR1s Aou1s REAL WORLD FUNCTIONALITY IN AN INNOVATIVE PACKAGE

ABOVE: TUDOR KEEPING TIME STYLISHLY IN 3 TIME ZONES WITH A DISTINCTIVE BURGUNDY AND BLUE BEZEL

WATCHES ARE AMAZING! These tiny wonderous machines help mark milestones and celebrate life's journey. When I was 13, I received the coolest watch: A Pulsar that lit up red when you hit the buttons. The astron auts in 2001: A Space Odyssey wore that watch! I still have it. Later, when I graduated from the UW, my parents graduation gift was a Rolex. They added a meaningful engraving on the back. I still wear the watch with a sense of pride, accomplishment, and much gratitude. Timepieces become treasured heirlooms and my passion for them is something I love to share. At Goldfarb Jewelers we have the most complete collection of sought-after watch brands. We encourage trade-ins and have special incentives to make now the perfect "time" to put a new watch on your wrist; or the wrist of someone you love. I invite you to visit us soon. -Steven Goldfarb

SPECTACULAR LIVING CAN BE YOURS.

WELCOME TO THE

November Edition of Greet West Bellevue!

We are extremely excited to share some amazing stories of your neighbors, friends, and fellow business owners.

The season has definitely started to change as it does in this area. With these changes brings the opportunity to create new memories with the gathering of friends and family, school dances, sporting events, and everything in between. We are blessed to live in such a wonderful community and to share all the awesome things taking place.

If you have a story, want to nominate a resident, or anything else that might be worth sharing with the community, we’d love to hear from you. Scan the QR code to submit story ideas, inquire about advertising information, or to become a community partner. We always love to hear from people in the local community!

None of this would be possible without the amazing support from our sponsors. They allow us to bring you an impactful publication each and every month.

Thanks to everyone for being part of our community.

Lindsay Rucker Owner of Greet West Bellevue

Lindsay Rucker, owner of Greet West Bellevue, with her husband, Shea Robinson

MEET THE TEAM

Jessica Ronzo Social Media

Heather Mitts Social Media

Jenny Hart Danowski Freelance Writer and Copyeditor

Carl Roe Virtual Ad Manager

Lindsay Rucker

Barbara Pearson Freelance Writer

Allison Frey Freelance Writer

Jackie Phairow Photography

Theodora Teodosiadis Photography

Mike Nakamura Photography

Natalie Wallace Photography

Ashley Kwon Teen Reporter

Kyle Patterson Cocktail Culture Writer

Circeo Freelance Recipe Writer Rachael Eichner Bellevue Lifespring Writer

Green Freelance Writer

Lexi Neff Teen Reporter

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses who make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

ART CLASSES/PARTIES

PNW Art Laboratory (123) 456-7890

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Holden of Bellevue Assisted Living and Memory Care (123) 456-7890 holdenbellevue.com

BOAT DEALERSHIP

Union Marine (123) 456-7890 unionmarine.com

CLEANING SERVICES

Magnolia Green Cleaning (123) 456-7890 magnoliagreencleaning.com

CUSTOM ART

Shapiro Designs (123) 456-7890 shapirodesigns.com

CUSTOM HOME BUILDERS

Design Guild Homes (123) 456-7890 designguildhomes.com

John Buchan Homes (123) 456-7890 buchan.com

DOCK BUILDER

Seaborn Pile Driving Co. (123) 456-7890 seabornpiledriving.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Jeffrey T. Sleeper Financial Services (123) 456-7890 jtsleeper.com

GOURMET MARKET

Kitchen and Market (123) 456-7890 kitchenandmarket.com

HEALTH CLUB

Bellevue Club (123) 456-7890 bellevueclub.com

PRO Club | Medical (123) 456-7890 proclub.com

INSURANCE

HUB NW

Andy Prill (123) 456-7890

Mary Grace Allstate Insurance (123) 456-7890 allstate.com/graceang

INTERIOR DESIGN

HD Design (123) 456-7890 hddesigncompany.com

K. Peterson Design (123) 456-7890 kpetersondesign.com

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING

All Covered Painting (123) 456-7890 allcoveredpainting.com

JEWELER

Alvin Goldfarb Jewelers (123) 456-7890 agjeweler.com

LUXURY APARTMENTS

Two Lincoln Tower (123) 456-7890 liveattwolincolntower.com

LUXURY LIVING

Avenue Bellevue (123) 456-7890 liveatavenue.com

MEDICAL SPA

PRO Club | Medical (123) 456-7890 proclub.com

MOVING & STORAGE

Jordan River Moving & Storage (123) 456-7890 jordanrivermoving.com

NON-PROFIT

Bellevue Lifespring (123) 456-7890 bellevuelifespring.org

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mike Nakamura Photography (123) 456-7890 MikeNakamuraPhotography.com

Jackie Phairow Photography (123) 456-7890 jphairphotography.com

Natalie Wallace Photography (123) 456-7890 nataliewallacephotography.com

Theodora Teodosiadis Photography + Design (123) 456-7890 theodoraart.com

PIANOS

Northwest Pianos (123) 456-7890 northwestpianos.com

PRIVATE BANKING/WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Merrill Lynch ((123) 456-7890

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

St. Thomas School (123) 456-7890 stthomasschool.org

The Dartmoor School

Kim Estes (123) 456-7890 dartmoorschool.org

University Prep (123) 456-7890 universityprep.org

REAL ESTATE

Denise Niles & Anna Riley - Windermere (123) 456-7890 westbellevue.com

Joy A. Roush - Windermere (123) 456-7890 joy.withwre.com

Nate Short - Compass (123) 456-7890 nateshort.com

Shelly Zhou - Coldwell Banker Bain (123) 456-7890 shellyzhou.coldwellbankerbain.com

Team Foster - Compass (123) 456-7890 fosterrealty.com

n2co.com

Delivering Neighborhood Connections © 2022 The N2 Company, Inc.

The Brazens - Windermere (123) 456-7890 brazenwindermere.com

Wendy Paisley - Windermere (123) 456-7890 wendypaisley.com

RETIREMENT LIVING

Pacific Regent Bellevue (123) 456-7890 watermarkcommunities.com

ROOFING

North Creek Roofing (123) 456-7890 northcreekroofing.com

Orca Roofing (123) 456-7890 orcaroofing.com

SALON & SPA

The Spa & Salon at PRO Club (123) 456-7890 proclub.com/club/the-spa

VACATION RENTALS

Cactus Relactus linktr.ee/cactusrelactus

WINERY Bacovino (123) 456-7890 Bacovino.com

YACHT BROKER

Henry Wold Yacht Consulting (123) 456-7890 Alexandermarineusa.com

DISCLAIMER: This publication is also known as Points Living is owned by The N2 Company, and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2.

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NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

WRITTEN BY PAIGE GREEN, RESIDENT CONTRIBUTOR

Reading the Nextdoor app has had me feeling like neighborly love has disappeared until this week. This week I was reminded that I live in a special neighborhood with kind, generous, and thoughtful people. We were out for a walk a couple of days ago and stopped to talk with a man who was standing in front of his house. He asked us to wait for a second. Ron McDougal ran back inside and returned with a vase of freshly cut flowers and handed them to my daughter, Pemberley. We were all blown away. This random act of kindness touched our hearts in a profound way. It stirred something in us, and we wanted to find a way to do the same for someone else.

The man had asked us to return the vase so that he could give a bouquet to someone else at a later time. We brainstormed what we could do special for him when we returned the vase. We landed on making him cupcakes. With that, we got to work. Once we were knee-deep in our cooking project, we realized we didn’t have enough eggs. Pemberley

decided she would run over to the Cahill’s house to ask for some. She needed two eggs and returned with three. She told me they wanted to be sure I had enough, so they gave me extra. It stopped me in my tracks. Above and beyond is what I thought. Maybe this is what we need. To all do a little above and beyond. The little extra effort goes such a long way. Now, this last event will stay in my family memory bank forever. I am a part of the Yarrow Point Bible study, and these ladies threw me not one but two wedding showers. I think I cried both times. I felt so loved and celebrated. In the card of one of the gifts, DeAnn Ruoff wrote as a gift, “I would like to teach your daughter to sew.” So, Pemberley and I went to DeAnn’s house, and she taught her how to make a pillowcase. She even monogrammed her name on it. I don’t believe I have ever had someone offer to teach

Long-time Yarrow Point resident, Ron McDougal, sharing fresh cut flowers with Pemberley.

The Sharing Bench in Yarrow Point.

my children how to do a skill like that. As we left, DeAnn said to come back anytime for more sewing. We got in the car, and Pemberley said, “I want to go back another time, and I want to ask Santa for a sewing machine.”

To prove my point that there is still kindness out there, our week ended with a family walk with our dog, Giorgio, where we stumbled across a bench with a sign. The sign stated that it was the Yarrow Point Sharing Bench, and on it, we found fresh peppers from someone’s garden. We took some home and used them for dinner that night. The cherry on top of a heartwarming week!

All these beautiful moments in one week in my neighborhood have made my heart so full. I know my children feel now more than ever this neighborhood is a place they are seen. It’s a place with kind people. It’s home.

“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors — in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.” —Mister Rogers

NEGOTIATOR BY DAY. MASTER SWIMMER BY NIGHT.

www.bellevueclub.com

DeAnn Ruoff helping Pemberley learn to sew.

Neighbors to the rescue! The Cahills saved the cupcake recipe with eggs.

The Night Out

Cacao-Infused Old Fashioned

BY KYLE PATTERSON, BAR MANAGER AT CENTRAL

Everyone loves chocolate, especially around the holidays. This lovely concoction is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while warming your insides on a cold November eve!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cacao-infused Buffalo Trace (see recipe below)

• .25 oz Spiced Vanilla Simple (see recipe below)

• 3 dashes Angostura Bitters

Method: Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass, stir, and strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel and cinnamon stick.

Spiced Vanilla Simple Syrup Recipe: In a pot, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup brown sugar. Let simmer for 5 minutes, and add 1 whole vanilla bean and 4 cinnamon sticks. Let simmer and reduce for 20 minutes. Strain into a small container. Let chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Infusion recipe: In a large closable container, add 1 cup of cacao nibs and 1 bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon. Close the container and chill overnight. Strain out cacao nibs and pour infusion back into the bottle.

RECIPE

BAR + RESTAURANT

PHOTO BY THEODORA TEODOSIADIS

Cheers!

Steven and his wonderful employees are ready to make your special occasion the best possible.

ALVIN GOLDFARB JEWELER

Building Customer Relationships as Beautiful as its Jewelry

WRITTEN BY JENNY HART DANOWSKI

As a teen, I vividly remember going to buy school clothes with my mom and three sisters. We had a salesperson at our local department store who would greet us, ask what kinds of looks we each liked, deposit us in dressing rooms, and run back and forth in a frenzy delivering the latest fashions. It wasn’t only fun and exciting, it was convenient. Today, you’re lucky to be asked if you need help at all, and even then, you’re still pretty much on your own … unless you happen to be shopping at Alvin Goldfarb Jeweler.

Since Alvin opened his namesake boutique jewelry store in 1980, customers have enjoyed a shopping experience like no other with personalized, friendly, knowledgeable service from

employees who have been here almost as long as the business itself. “Because of Dad, it’s always been about personal relationships,” says his son and current owner, Steven. “He was not only the face but the heart of the store from the day he opened the door until his retirement.” Alvin passed away in September 2016, but his legacy lives on, “Dad’s optimism, great taste and, most especially, his belief that everyone who came through our doors was a special person celebrating a special occasion underlines everything we do.”

Steven is, in fact, a fifth-generation Seattle jeweler. But the family’s Seattle roots go even deeper. “My great, great grandparents moved to Seattle in 1879 before Washington became a state in 1889,” Steven marvels. And the Goldfarbs don’t take their commitment to the community lightly.

“Seattle, Bellevue, in fact, the entire region, is so important to us that we enthusiastically support causes ranging from the USO to high schools and Rotary,” says Steven.

“Fredda and I have served on boards such as Overlake Hospital, Seattle Children’s Theater, and Hutch Holiday Gala benefitting the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.”

His biggest commitment, however, is carrying on his father’s legacy by making sure every customer enjoys gorgeous jewelry but also fond lasting memories of the experience itself. As he points out, “With people having been stuck at home the last couple of years, now more than ever, we want to offer an enjoyable experience to make it worth

their while to come into the store.”

Perhaps that is why Steven has customers and their family members coming back again and again. “As corny as it sounds, what I love most about the business is touching people’s lives. I started doing this 40 years ago, helping couples with their engagement rings,” he says. “Now, I am not only helping those same couples’ children. I’m helping their children’s children. Just being that involved in people’s lives is wonderful.”

Whether you are

choosing the perfect watch, finding just the right engagement ring, settling on a gorgeous anniversary gift, or creating something custom for the person in your life who means the most to you, Steven and his staff are here to help.

And speaking of custom pieces, this is where Steven really shines. When someone asks if he can create a beautiful ring from scratch, Steven begins with a conversation. As he explains, “Often times, without realizing it, they’ve got a pretty good idea of what they want. It’s my job to help them realize that vision.” He gives the example of a man he recently sat down with for close to two hours. “He described the young lady he wanted to give the ring to, including what she did for work, how she grew up, how she dressed, the way she laughed, her sense of humor, and how she used her hands when talking,” says Steven. When they finished, Steven told him he’d have a drawing of the ring ready in a couple of days. When his customer saw it, he said, “That is perfect! How did you do that?” Steven replied, “I did something other people don’t; I listened.”

Thus, the team at Goldfarb aims to make each purchasing experience a joyful one, which often means going above and beyond. “We have created more than one game show-type activity here in the store where someone ‘wins’ their gift,” says Steven with a chuckle. “We have hosted Sweet 16 parties; I’ve hidden behind trees to suddenly appear with a ring at an engagement, even once opening the store after hours for a young man I’d known since he was a baby so he could select an engagement ring with his family cheering him on.”

Steven says proudly, “The people we have working here are second to none.” Still, don’t be surprised if your first greeting is from Steven’s adorable Havanese-Coton mix, Stella McCartney Goldfarb. Stella, Steven, and the Goldfarb Team are carrying on a sparkling family tradition of helping people to celebrate their most special occasions.

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LOCAL MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

National Charity League Welcomes New Members

WRITTEN BY ALISHA BRUMMETT

Mothers and daughters in the Emerald City Chapter of the National Charity League serve our community every year through philanthropic projects. The National Charity League focuses on fostering the mother-daughter relationship through an ongoing commitment to philanthropy, culture, and leadership. Girls from seventh grade through high school work together alongside their mothers each year, helping over 20 nonprofits, including the Bellevue Farmers Market, Eastside Baby Corner, Seattle Children’s Hospital Guild, Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center, Jubilee Reach, and many more. In the past year, mothers and daughters contributed over 1,000 hours of service.

Members recently participated in the Jubilee Service Day, an annual event that brings together the eastside community to serve at local public schools and homes. Emerald City Chapter members volunteered at Ardmore Elementary, helping teachers with furniture setup, making posters, and putting student packets together. Avelyn Lee, class of 2026 member, said, “Jubilee Service Day made me realize how hard the teachers work to make their learning environments ideal for their students. I am glad I could be part of their preparation for the school year.”

Class of 2024 member Sarena Parekh began volunteering with Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center when she was 14 and has logged over 500 hours in the past two years. She has worked with Little Bit in numerous roles, including program volunteer, paddock, and leader. Sarena also helps out as a volunteer schooler, where she rides the horses to ensure they are ready for classes, and as a class assistant, helping horses get ready for classes and summer camps. Sarena said, “Throughout my time at Little Bit, I have made so many amazing friends and learned so much! It is so cool to get to be a part of this amazing organization that provides services to adults and children with disabilities. Seeing the joy and excitement on riders’ faces is always so much fun!”

Our National Charity League members volunteer at the Bellevue Farmers’ Market throughout the summer with numerous activities, including setup and breakdown, info booth, photographer, and manning the POP Club stand. Girls who volunteer at the POP Club encourage young children to take the “two-bite challenge,” tasting a new fruit or vegetable such as green beans, nectarines, and bell peppers. Children are then given Pop Club tokens in the value of $2 to spend on fresh produce in the market.

In addition to striving to make a positive difference in our community through philanthropy, the Class of 2025 members

focuses on building strong peer relationships. They host regular potluck dinners after meetings and enjoy group activities like going to Wings Over Washington, where they learned about the extensive nature and beauty we have in our evergreen state. For their leadership event, they hosted a Nailed It-style baking challenge. Jessica Bavington shared, “This might be my

Members putting food kits together for Bellevue LifeSpring.

Dora Andrew volunteering at the Bellevue Farmer’s Market.

favorite memory from last year. This helped us with our time management skills in an exciting way!”

Recently, the Class of 2026 met at Clyde Hill Beach Park, where they listened to two guest speakers. The first guest speaker shared about freshman year and gave tips on how to have a healthy balance between schoolwork and

mental health. The second led the group through a meditation session focused on gratitude and mindfulness of our surroundings as a way to de-stress during high school. The meeting was wrapped up with a class activity for making tree bead bracelets to express gratitude for the park and its nature.

The Emerald City Chapter of the National Charity League is a local group of mothers and daughters who come together in a commitment to community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences. The Chapter recently launched its annual membership drive for the 2023-2024 membership and is currently accepting applications for prospective members entering seventh grade in the fall of 2023.

More information is available on the Chapter website at www.nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/ Emeraldcity/, including dates and times for prospective member information meetings. For questions, please contact membershipemeraldcity@nclonline.org.

Tree bead bracelets made by the Class of 2026 to express gratitude for the park and its nature.

Sarena Parekh working with a horse at Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center.

Bellevue Farmer’s Market

19 Years of Supporting Local Businesses

Over the past 18 years, the Bellevue Farmers Market (BFM) has fostered community connection in West Bellevue between residents and vendors alike. “We feel great pride in our mission of supporting Washington farmers and food makers and connecting Bellevue residents to excellent food,” Market Engagement Manager Liz Paruchuru passionately expressed.

Excitement, uncertainty, and relief were the feelings surrounding the start of the 19th season this year at Bellevue Presbyterian Church. While public health remains a BFM priority, the lifting of restrictions for the 2022 season refreshed the energy of the market. The market is back to a full vendor lineup without customer count limits, and masking is a personal choice. Popular favorites returned weekly while several new vendors, such as Aditi Chai and Custom Written Poetry, were added.

In addition, the Two-Bite Challenge at the Kids Power of Produce Club resumed, where kids are encouraged to take two bites of a seasonal produce item in exchange for $2 to spend on fruits and vegetables at the market. Live music has returned to the outdoor eating area, providing a lively backdrop to the encouraging sight of the community supporting local businesses. “The 2022 season has been incredible,” Paruchuru remarks. “After two years of markets with varying COVID restrictions, it was lovely to feel a bit like 2019 again.”

WRITTEN BY LEXI NEFF, STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR

Bellevue Farmers Market is a nonprofit organization which is a unique component compared to other markets. Paruchuru shares, “The best way for Bellevue residents and others to support the market is to SHOP the market. It is increasingly difficult to have a Washington state farm or small business due to the fallout of COVID, inflation, the population growth of our area, environmental changes, and so much more.”

As fall is ending and winter approaches, the market opens on the third Saturday of every month and is in full swing for the holiday season only. You’ll find excellent local

items from winter produce to coffee, honey, and cured meats to gift to your loved ones, along with a fun Santa surprise for the kids in December! It’s been great to see how the neighbors and beyond have helped rally around the market, as BFM “truly relies on community support for the vast majority of its activities.”

The Bellevue Farmers Market’s 19th season has been a great success and ends on Saturday, Dec. 17. We look forward to seeing you next May for the start of the 20th season!

Please consider donating to the Bellevue Farmers Market at https://bellevuefarmersmarket.org/donate.

Magnolia Green Cleaning

Managing Your Home So You Can Relax & Enjoy Life

WRITTEN BY JENNY HART DANOWSKI

As the mother of three, Michelle Middleton knows firsthand how hard it can be for moms to work full-time while also trying to manage a house and raise a family. So after spending 17 years in corporate sales traveling 38 weeks out of the year, Michelle took a huge pay cut so she could stay local and be there for her kids, who were in private school at the time. As she explains, “My kids were getting older, and I needed to be here for them, so I started picking up local housecleaning and house organizing jobs, and it grew from there.”

That was 10 years ago, and, in 2016, she made it official by starting Magnolia Green Cleaning, which offers both house cleaning and house management. For those who aren’t familiar, house management includes everything from running errands, to doing laundry, to taking care of pets, to watering plants, to organizing closets, to grocery shopping, and even to cooking. “When I lived in Texas for a short time, nearly everyone had a house manager,” says Michelle. “But here in the Pacific Northwest, many

families feel they should be able to handle it all themselves. I especially see a lot of ‘mom guilt.’”

Thankfully, Michelle is here to set them straight. “You simply can’t do it when you and your partner are both working 60 to 80 hours a week and taking your children to their activities and all,” she points out. “You don’t need to feel guilty about asking for help, as doing so gives you more time to come home, relax, and enjoy your home and your family.” After all, a clean, organized environment makes for a calmer, happier family.

Yet families aren’t the only ones asking for Michelle’s help. “My average clients in the last five years have been families that work for tech companies, but I also have 28-year-old’s who simply have never owned a home and have no idea how to manage it, to young families, to people in their fifties.”

Regardless of your needs — whether it be regular housecleaning or housecleaning plus house management — you can rest assured Michelle, and her employees will fulfill your requirements with the highest degree of professionalism. Michelle says, “I’ve been lucky in that I’ve known through the industry quite a few experienced house managers and house cleaners, so I’ve partnered up with some who have been friends, and some who I’ve known from working with them in the past.” As for training, Michelle works side by side with each employee early on to make sure she knows them personally. “This is a very hard job, so it’s pretty easy to weed out those who aren’t going to be able to handle it,” she says. “I make sure my cleaners and house managers fulfill the promised job, and even have some male employees who previously worked in the military, are extremely precise, and do a wonderful job.”

While Michelle owns and manages the company, she also does much of the work herself. “I will eventually get out of working in the field, but for now, I’m doing what needs to be done,” she explains. “I also know all my clients and enjoy seeing them, talking with them, and doing things for them,” she adds.

All of Michelle’s employees have been background checked, and most she has worked with for a long time, so her clients know those coming into their homes. After all, trust is essential in this business.

Michelle poses with her daughter at her daughter’s wedding.

Michelle loves the flexibility that owning her own company affords and says with a laugh, “As the mom of three, each of my children has given me experience in various organizational skills.” Her strong sales background has also been invaluable, as Michelle is comfortable talking with all kinds of people, from high-tech executives to singles just starting out to young, busy families.

As for the name Magnolia Green Cleaning, Michelle made the decision early on to use only green products after having several friends who had used harsh chemicals for years suffer serious health issues as a result. “The products I use do the job just as well while keeping the home environment healthy for you and your family,” she assures.

Michelle’s favorite thing about what she does is when satisfied clients call or text to say, “Oh my gosh, my house looks so good! I know I threw a lot at you, but you managed it and didn’t complain.” After all, making people’s lives easier is what she set out to do in the first place and knowing she has taken that heavy load off a harried mom’s shoulders, in particular, is especially gratifying.

With her two daughters grown and gone and her son having just one more year at Bothell High, Michelle is actively working to grow her team so she can serve even more busy clients in the future. As a life-long equestrian, she also hopes to one day own a little hobby farm with horses and have the time to ride again. That, along with a few grandchildren, would be perfect!

For more information, go to: magnoliagreencleaning.com.

Roads Diverging: Making a Difference with the Button Family

WRITTEN BY ALLISON FREY

I Shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence Two roads diverged in a wood, and I I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. — Robert Frost, The Road Not Taken

Often in today’s day and age, much of our interactions with neighbors and acquaintances are surface level. One only sees a small sliver of a person — more of the what, not the who, they are; the cars they drive, the house they inhabit, the clothes they wear. Rarely taken into account is the road taken leading to their current lifestyle: the estate, the Mercedes, and the designer purses might come with a price tag of suffering, grief, and hardship.

On the surface, Yelena Button is the embodiment of someone who has it all. Cover-model gorgeous, fabulous husband, house on the water, and nine wonderful children in her blended family. One could imagine Yelena has never even had a bad hair day if looking at her life on the surface.

In doing that, you’d miss the very essence of Yelena; a woman with compassion to spare, empathy for all, and a willingness to take the road less traveled to support others in need.

Yelena Button emigrated to the United States from her home country of Ukraine when she was 16 years old, just two years after the fall of the Soviet Union. She came to America with her mom and sisters at her dad’s insistence, searching for a better life and the American dream. Landing in the Seattle area, she had to navigate her own citizenship process. It took 18 months to get her green card and five years to get her American passport. Pursuing her associate’s degree in college, she met her first husband. Her life seemed to be just getting better; America was the land of opportunity, and Yelena was thriving with her new husband, Roman, having just graduated with her AA and pregnant with her first child. Soon after feeling settled in her new life, she was thrown into tragedy. Her husband was killed in a fatal car accident, and Yelena would be a single mom to her yet-to-be-born son. What should have been the most joyous time of any parent’s life, the birth of their first child, turned into a time to grieve

Tom and Yelena at the entrance of Buttonwood Farm.

and start anew again. Newborn baby in arms, she returned to the university to finish her bachelor’s in accounting, landed a job at a downtown accounting firm, and started work to support her new family.

In January 2009, Yelena’s life would again go down a different path. She was working at Price Waterhouse Coopers downtown while studying for the CPA exam. On a whim, she signed up on eHarmony, opening the door to new friendships and/or love. It was there she connected with a farmer named Tom. He was a father of six, taking time off from his software career to concentrate on his children and start an organic “you cut” Christmas tree farm in Redmond called Buttonwood Farm, which he had purchased from the soccer club where he coached kids for 15 years.

Yelena and Tom met in person on Jan. 19, 2009, in the Starbucks on NE. 8th in Bellevue. They talked for hours, discovering they were fascinated with one another’s life stories. What started out as a friendship soon bloomed into more, and they were eventually married. At the time of the wedding, they had seven kids between them and have since added two more.

When Russia invaded Ukraine, sending millions of refugees scrambling for safety, Yelena remembered all too well what it was like to escape to a strange country with little money, no friends or family, minimal English, and only a small carry-on of mementos from her previous life. For many refugees, this pilgrimage was their first experience on an airplane. Yelena immediately felt a calling to help. Following the advice of family still stuck in Ukraine’s war zone, Yelena found the online bulletin boards where Ukrainian families posted photos and

personal statements of their past lives and current situation in hopes that someone could sponsor them into the U.S.

With unwavering support (and a bit of awe) from her husband, she helped the first group of refugees and asylum seekers with plane tickets and housing upon arrival in their newly remodeled guesthouse in Medina. The first two people she sponsored, both young men, arrived in March of 2022 with knapsacks and the clothes on their backs. Yelena and Tom immediately set them up with food, clothing, housing, transportation, cellphones, immigration visas, work authorization forms, and bank accounts.

At publication, Yelena and Tom have sponsored four different groups escaping the war, including two families with young children. Yelena has become an expert in the “how” of moving to America for safety. The work visa typically takes 5-12 months to receive, but Medina’s own Congresswoman, Suzan Delbene, has offered her help to expedite. The Buttons have offered jobs at Buttonwood Farm to refugees with work authorizations who need employment.

Igor and Olga Kovalenko arrived at the Buttons in late August with their three young boys just in time for the first day of school. When asked what surprised him most about his transition to the U.S., Igor replied, “I was really surprised by Tom and Yelena. They have everything that a human can have in this time on the Earth, but they both decided to help the people they absolutely didn’t know. And their help and support were huge, not just on paper, but they both find the time for us, from caring for our children to teaching us how to drive! Their kindness and sacrifice have been unbelievable

Tom and Yelena with their blended family of nine children and their son-in-law.

for us. The most difficult thing for us is language and communication. We need time to learn English and have more friends! We’re definitely very happy to be here, in USA. I really hope we’ll find our place and destiny here in this place and society!”

Olga Kovalenko describes what she left behind:

“Most of all, I miss my family and church! Close friends and time spent together were also an integral part of our lives. I also miss the language and understandable communication, the ability to express my thoughts freely, speak professionally, and be properly understood! And, in general, for the well-established life we had. It was good enough, and we were happy!”

If you would like to help Yelena and Tom’s families, they’re looking for refurbished computers, clothing for kids and adults, reliable used cars, and other necessities (furniture, bedding, etc.) to help them set up first apartments. The adults are all seeking work

in the same arenas they were working in previously. For the most recent family, that means music, sound engineering, or teaching. If you are interested in helping the Ukrainians still in a war zone, please consider donating to United24, World Vision, or other Ukrainian-focused nonprofits.

And please, if you’re looking for an amazing family experience cutting down your own organic Christmas tree, do visit Buttonwood Farm in Redmond! ’Tis the season!

Yelena Button (far right) in the last photo taken with her family in Torez, Ukraine, before leaving for the U.S. in 1993.

The Kovalenko family arriving in the U.S. after fleeing Ukraine in 2022.

Buttonwood Farm is the only 100% organically grown Christmas tree farm near Seattle.

GIVING THANKS TO OUR

WEST BELLEVUE NEIGHBORS

WRITTEN BY RACHAEL EICHNER

With the Thanksgiving holiday around the corner, Bellevue LifeSpring would like to express our gratitude to our West Bellevue residents for your partnership in building a better Bellevue community and supporting local children. Thank you for your commitment to philanthropy and for joining our tradition of neighbors helping neighbors.

A History of Giving Back

In 1911, a group of women living in Hunts Point formed a coalition dedicated to supporting their neighbors in need. They called themselves the Overlake Service League and delivered food baskets, goats for milk, seeds, and farm equipment to help families plant and harvest food.

During the Great Depression and following years, the Overlake Service League helped those out of work find jobs and delivered milk to school children. They also started a Well-Baby Clinic that provided immunizations before the existence of a hospital on the Eastside.

As Bellevue grew, so did the need. Over the years, Overlake Service League, now known as

Bellevue LifeSpring, went from serving hundreds of neighbors to providing food, education, clothing, and emergency assistance to thousands of local children.

The spirit and tradition of neighbors helping neighbors, founded by West Bellevue residents over a century ago, continues today.

A Story of West Bellevue Support

Meet Sydney — a bright and energetic 13-yearold that attends Highland Middle School. Sydney likes to hang out with her friends, play soccer and is excited to attend high school next year. Her story is similar to the nearly 4,000 Bellevue School District students facing food and housing insecurity.

Sydney, her twin-baby brothers, and her parents live in an apartment in Bellevue. Both Sydney’s parents work hourly minimum wage jobs. Sydney’s mom works during the day at a restaurant, and her dad works at night cleaning local office buildings. They work opposite schedules, so there is always a parent home with the twins. Childcare is just too costly.

Even though both of Sydney’s parents work, they struggle each month to ensure rent is paid and there is enough food for the family. That is why Sydney receives free lunch at her school.

With the rising costs of food and rent, Sydney’s parents shared that they often fall short despite their best efforts to plan and budget their income. When this happens, they have to prioritize rent over other bills to ensure they can keep a roof over their head. Missed bills cause the family to fall even further behind financially.

Just one unexpected expense or emergency can plunge a family into food and housing insecurity. Recently, Sydney’s mom had multiple work shifts cut unexpectedly, and the family found themselves without enough money to cover next month’s bills. Thanks to the generosity of our West Bellevue community, Sydney’s mom was connected with Bellevue LifeSpring, and we were able to cover their rent payment so that this family could remain in their apartment home.

Sydney and her family also visited Bellevue LifeSpring’s new Bellevue Family Hub resource center, located at Sydney’s school. At the Hub, Bellevue LifeSpring staff provided them with grocery store food vouchers and clothing support.

Sydney’s mom shared that the support they received gave her and her husband the opportunity they never thought they’d have, the chance to catch up financially and feel more secure and stable.

Our thanks to you!

Bellevue LifeSpring is grateful to be able to provide nutrition, warmth, opportunity, and stability for children in need like Sydney. We can provide this support because of our community’s collective generosity. We truly could not do this work without your support. Thank you!

Happy Thanksgiving from our Bellevue LifeSpring family to you!

To learn how you can provide joy to children and families like Sydney’s during the upcoming holiday season, visit www.BellevueLifeSpring. org/holidayprogram.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

WRITTEN BY TAMMY CIRCEO, FREELANCE RECIPE WRITER

Butternut squash is so often thought of as an autumn vegetable, and it very well may be. However, they are available in the markets well through winter and, when stored properly, will last a long time. You just might fall prey to the coziness of a Roasted Butternut Squash Soup in any season! This six-ingredient simplicity will take less than an hour, so you can get back under that wool throw on the couch much sooner!

You should also consider this soup an appetizer or first course on Thanksgiving Day. You can serve it in beautiful soup plates at the table or even in small cups while family and friends visit before the big feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 2-lb-ish butternut squash, seeds removed, peeled, and cut into 2-inch pieces (See notes for tips on peeling)

• 2 shallots, peeled and cut in quarters

• 2 Tbsp butter or fat of your choice

• 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated

• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

• Chicken or vegetable stock to cover the squash, about a quart

• Garnishes: Homemade croutons, chopped cooked bacon, fried sage leaves, chopped parsley, a drizzle of crème Fraiche or olive oil

Method:

1. Toss the squash and shallots in a large bowl with a bit of oil, then roast at 400°F till the squash is tender, and the shallots are golden (20-25 minutes).

2. While the squash and shallots are roasting, grate the ginger and chop the garlic.

3. About five minutes before the squash and shallots are done, heat the butter (or fat of choice) over medium heat in a pot. Add the ginger and garlic and stir till they are coated with the fat but not turning brown. When the squash and shallots are done, add them to the ginger and garlic.

4. Pour the stock in to cover the squash. Allow to heat for 10-15 minutes.

5. Using an immersion or countertop blender, blend the vegetables to puree them. Add more stock, if needed, to thin the soup to the consistency you like. Serve with any or all of the garnishes listed in the ingredients.

Notes:

Peeling winter squash is tough! I’ve found that a vegetable peeler works better than a knife and creates less opportunity for digits to go missing. Alternatively, you can cut the squash in half, remove the seeds (but not the peel), coat the flesh with olive oil, and roast it cut side down. The peel will remove more easily after it is cooked, but it will take a significantly longer time to roast than it does when cut into small chunks.

Bon Appétit!

Tammy Circeo, Freelance Recipe Writer

www.tammycirceo.com

IG: @tammycirceocheznous

FB: TammyCirceoChezNous

ULTIMATE FRISBEE STAR, ALEXANDER BELFIORE

“Receiving the World Champion Trophy is Something I’ll Never forget!”

WRITTEN

BY

BARBARA PEARSON

Outstanding Ultimate Frisbee player, Alexander Belfiore (18), lives with his family in Yarrow Point. He was the only freshman selected to play for the Varsity team at Eastside Preparatory School (EPS), continuing with the team throughout his high school years. He graduated from EPS this year and will attend Stanford University in the fall. “When I met Alexander as a freshman, it was clear that he was a gifted athlete who had been coached well as a young player,” says Adam Waltzer, EPS Varsity Boys Ultimate Head Coach. “What I learned over the years is that he is dedicated to self-actualization.”

“Ultimate is a fast-paced game played on a skinny version of a soccer field, and points are scored by catching the frisbee in the opponent’s end zone,” Alexander explains. “You can’t run with the frisbee — you must advance it the length of the field by throwing it between

your teammates. If the frisbee is thrown out-of-bounds or is dropped/blocked/caught by the other team, it’s a turnover and possession switches.” There is no referee, so every player is responsible for fair play and following and enforcing the rules.

In elementary school, Alexander played a variety of sports (baseball, basketball, soccer). But by the time he was in high school, he focused on Ultimate full-time, playing for both EPS and club. “It gave me the opportunity to play with some of the best athletes and players from around the Seattle area,” Alexander explains. “I played club through my senior year, although, by then, my high school team had come close to eclipsing my club team in terms of quality of play!”

“There was a moment in Alexander’s senior year when I felt he truly took the team on his shoulders and made it clear that he was going to lead them to something special when we had won our first four games of the season pretty handily and were playing our rival, the Northwest School, to finish out the first half of the season,” says Coach Waltzer. “Alexander’s stellar performance that day left a mark, not only on his teammates but on everyone who was watching. Our team chemistry emerged, and we went on to an undefeated regular season, a berth in the state finals and becoming a national semi-finalist.”

Alexander continues, saying, “I put a lot of work towards changing the team’s culture, with emphasis on defensive effort, and it was amazing to see how much we improved as a result — it was an honor to be a captain. I was actually dealing with pneumonia during the Nationals tournament, so I wasn’t close to 100%. I had to rely on my teammates a lot more, and I was impressed by the way some of our younger players were able to handle that kind of pressure. I’m really

proud of how far we’ve come as a team, even though we weren’t able to win it all.”

The WFDF World Junior Ultimate Championships take place every two years, shining a spotlight on the world’s best young ultimate players under the age of 20. The competition took place Aug. 6-13 this year in Wroclaw, Poland. Alexander attended the highly-competitive West Coast tryouts, originally planned to be held outside of Los Angeles, but moved to Seattle because of COVID-19. Alexander made the team and joined a practice weekend in Denver just a week after high school Nationals. “Though I was still sick and played very little, it was awesome to meet all the players, some of whom I’d heard a lot about,” Alexander says, “and I was pumped to play with them.”

The newly-formed team then spent the week before the tournament at a training camp held at Lewis University in Chicago, with five days of high-intensity training, typically involving six to seven hours of practice per day.

“The actual tournament in Wroclaw involved one to two games per day, which gave us time to rest and recover,” Alexander continues, “and it was so much fun to play against the best competition from around the world.” Team USA defeated teams from Germany, Columbia, Great Britain, Austria, Italy, and Canada, culminating in a 15-11 win over France in the final. “Playing in (and eventually winning) the entire tournament was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life, and receiving the World Champion trophy was something I’ll never forget,” Alexander enthuses.

At the college level, Ultimate is a club sport with a national championship. “I chose to attend Stanford because I wanted to study at a school with a strong computer science program, a strong(ish) Ultimate team,

and a community with lots of driven people,” Alexander says. His mother, Kristina Belfiore, notes, “Alexander aspires to lead the Stanford Ultimate team to earn an invitation to the Division 1 College Championships.”

While studying at Stanford, Alexander would like to continue playing with the Seattle Cascades, a professional Ultimate team that competes in the Western Division of the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL). “I’m hoping that they’ll be able to fly me out to away games during the season while I’m still in school, though it may not be possible,” he says, adding, “Professional Ultimate is so much more high-paced than high school: everybody is much more athletic and, at times, defense feels almost impossible since the size of the field is widened by 15 yards.”

Spacious

“Ultimate caters well to a mix of quickness in small spaces and straight-line speed - and I think I’m uniquely good at both of these,” Alexander concludes, “so my dream is to play for Seattle Sockeye, the top men’s club team in Seattle, and one of the best club teams worldwide. I’ll try out next spring — and I believe my odds of making the practice squad are pretty good!”

We wish him all the best!

Suzette played the piano at age 4 and plucked a mean ukulele in college.

Then she played "Tiny Bubbles" at a Watermark luau. That's how it started.

Residents created a ukulele club. There's Adrienne, who first played in Hawaii. And Judy, eager to try a new instrument. Some never played a note before. In this club, talent is optional; good cheer universal.

They jam to cool tunes and sway to "Margaritaville." Are they perfect? Nope. Are they wonderful? Beyond measure.

Let's Connect

Call 123-456-7890 to plan a private tour and consultation. Meet residents who are thriving i n our upbeat environment.

Scan QR Code or visit whatisageless.com/PRB

2022 Old Bellevue Wine Walk

Photo Recap!

PHOTOS BY JACKIE PHAIROW

2022 Thanksgiving Food Drive

A Bellevue Tradition of Giving

WRITTEN BY SHARON KNEIP

I hope this finds you all very well and living an abundantly joyful life. As I write these words, my heart flutters. Knowing that my wishes, hopes, and dreams for you, our neighbors, our world, and myself do not often align with what we are feeling or experiencing brings me a sense of defeat. Where did I go so wrong? Why did I give up on my dreams of slipping on my patent leather shoes and pearls each morning to go spread a message of love globally? If I had just dreamt bigger for the people of the world, could I have helped stop world hunger, both physical and emotional? And then I am reminded that if we dedicate ourselves to the purpose of bettering all, it may not be too late to create a world that celebrates a jubilee of holiness and harmony.

On that note, this year, Families Helping Families is excited to invite you to participate in the 2022 Thanksgiving Food

Drive. But first, I would like to sincerely thank all the people who, over the last 15 years, have repeatedly ignited their talents to make our food drive a reality. I am beyond humbled by the hundreds of volunteers, teams, families, companies, and saints who have, without hesitation, come to help their neighbors in need. I want to thank my children (7), my wonderful mom, our family, and friends who believe with all their hearts and act as the wind in each other’s sails. Thank you to the people who rock at procuring donations and set aside the fear of receiving a “no” to bring a day of peace to a family, even without knowing the recipient’s name or story. Thank you for providing a moment in time where abundance and joy become one!

We have now served over 40,000 people with the mission of giving each family something to be grateful for, a memory to carry with them, and a happy story to share,

much like the one my children and I shared in the spring of 2010. Two years, three months, and 14 days after delivering the last food basket of our first Bellevue Food Drive, we sat at our dining table with the goal of making 200 peanut butter sandwiches for the homeless in Seattle. It was a chilly March day, and I had woken early with a funny feeling in my stomach. To shake my anxiety, I suggested that we sit and make sandwiches while giving thanks that life was “good” — we had health, a roof over our heads, faith, friends, food, and each other; we had the world by the tail. We were singing uplifting music and watching a national sporting event, but

ten sandwiches short of 200, we ran out of bread. I told the kids I would run to the store to get another loaf of bread, but as I pulled into the parking lot in our old blue Buick, I got a call that changed our lives forever.

Over the weeks that Neal was in and out of the hospital, we were abundantly blessed by my parents, friends and family. He was released from Harborview on Good Friday, and we were all so happy he was home. We had no idea what was ahead of us but knew we had each other, faith and love. Immediately after arriving home, the doorbell rang, and I opened it to find a gorgeous white Easter Lilly and

homemade cookies. At the same time, I received a message from another friend offering to make our family an Easter dinner and celebrate with us. Easter Sunday, with the wheelchair gently pushed up to the table, we all held hands, gave thanks, and prayed for each other, the future of our children, healing, courage, and prosperity. The seven of us enjoyed her meal, relaxed, and laughed — something we had not done for weeks. To this day, not an Easter meal goes by without remembering the kindness of my friend and reminiscing on that happy memory amid a difficult time.

Today, over a decade later, this friend’s son, Calvin, and his business partners have inherited the very same spirit of giving and will be partnering with Families Helping Families to provide food to families in need and some holiday magic during the week of Thanksgiving. And to Cascadia Pizza, it is

with enormous gratitude and abundant joy that I welcome you to the Families Helping Families Thanksgiving Food Drive. In thanking Calvin for his offer to help, he responded, “No, Sharon, thank YOU! I have always wanted to do something like this. Thank you for allowing my family and business partners to help.” We are so grateful for your generosity and cannot wait to serve, together, people from all over the world who we get to call our neighbors.

Additionally, we would like to thank Bellevue ASB, Cheer, Football, and the entire community for your willingness to ignite hope and bring a joyful memory to children and families through the giving of your time and finances. This is a community event, and it truly takes a village. Please visit thanksgivingfooddrive.com for this year’s goals, details, and ways to help!

It is with this beautiful quote from Queen Elizabeth that I wish you all a happy fall and the happiest holiday season:

“When peace comes, remember it will be for us, the children of today, to make the world of tomorrow a better and happier place. My sister is by my side, and we are both going to say goodnight to you. Come on, Margaret. Goodnight, children. Goodnight, and good luck to you all.”

Once again, we thank you for helping us inspire hope and give thanks reminding us:

“If you can’t feed a million, feed one.” — Mother Teresa

MEET SARAH

"AFTER

SPENDING SEVERAL YEARS FEELING

TRAPPED IN A BODY THAT DIDN'T LOOK OR MOVE LIKE l'M USED TO, I FEEL YOUNGER, STRONGER AND FITTER THAN EVER. "

BEFORE

I'd been active and fit for many years, and I was a little embarrassed to admit I needed help getting back in shape after several knee surgeries and COVID packed on the pounds. Intellectually, I knew what it took to get back to where I felt comfortable, but I was never able to be acc ountable to only myself.

I knew several people who'd done 20/20 Lifestyles with great success. After spending so much time in a body I didn't relate to, I made the decision to go "all in" and make my health and happiness a priority.

I think the genetic testing portion of the program was the most informative. It was helpful to understand what nutritional model would be the most effective for my body, as well as what types of injuries my body might be more prone to and what to watch out for.

I loved the nutrition part of the program. It inspired me to create a chicken salad recipe that my family absolutely loves! I also love sheet meals! They're super easy and healthy!

Family support was extremely important. I asked my husband to participate, to some extent. I didn't need him to follow my plan, but I did need to have an environment that had minimal junk/fast foods and alcohol consumption. He was totally on board, and his results have been amazing as well! He's lost nearly 20 pounds. We've also made fitness and exercise a key part of our daily lives.

The results of doing 20/20 Lifestyles have been pretty spectac ular. I lost nearly 20% of my body fat, dropped five dress sizes, and gained at least four pounds of muscle-which is almost unheard of for a woman in her late 40' s. I've also had to update most of my wardrobe. It's been SO AMAZING seeing how my body looks in smaller clothes! My energy level has increased dramatically, and I'm much happier and more positive overall. I'm also way more aware of what goes into my body, and what my body needs to be healthy. When I'm out with friends, I'm finally able to be accountable to myself and stand firm in my decisions. I no longer cave to social pressures around eating or drinking. I'm able to do what's right for me and my goals.

I love feeling like myself again! After spending several years feeling trapped in a body that didn't look or move like I'm used to, I now feel younger and more vibrant, more capable, and stronger and fitter than I ever have.

My three tips for success are:

1) Don't do this program (or any other) until you're ready to own it just for yours elf. I wasn't ready to participate until I made the decision to do it for just me. I don't think I would have been as successful otherwise.

2) Make sure you have support in place from the very beginning to set yourself up for success. Ask for that support ahead of time.

3) Work your butt off, literally. I put my heart and soul into every workout, even when I was tired and surly about being there. My trainer, Dean Rogers, was a huge part of helping me increase my strength, endurance and overall fitness! I owe him a huge debt of gratitude!

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 prod uct to support your healthy journey.

Dr. Mark Declomenico 20/20 LifeStyles founder

consulation.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL ROCK & ROLL MARATHON!

PHOTOS BY ANNE FRASCA, TEEN PHOTOGRAPHER

It began and ended in the Bellevue Downtown Park. Runners, walkers, all ages and ethnicities came together and rocked their way through a half marathon around Bellevue! What a great day!

Meet New Student Photographer Anne Frasca

Hello! I am Anne Frasca, the new student photographer for Greet West Bellevue. I’ve lived around Bellevue for most of my life and currently am a sophomore attending Lakeside High School. I started photography in eighth grade and have since taken classes, entered in photography competitions, and contributed to school newspapers.

When I’m not taking photos, I’m either studying biology, participating in Model UN, or coxing at a local crew team. After taking a biology course in the summer of eighth grade, I became very interested in the subject and started reading and researching it myself. In the future, I hope to continue studying and learning more about biology.

Additionally, I enjoy debate and have been participating in my school’s debate and Model UN club since I was 11. For the past year, I not only started attending and organizing Model UN conferences but also helped teach younger students about debate. I love teaching others and enjoy watching them grow as debaters.

Finally, I’m also a coxswain, the person who steers and motivates the rowers for a nearby crew team. After trying crew in seventh grade, I discovered my love for the sport and started competing in regattas during my freshman year. I enjoy water sports and hope to continue crew throughout college.

I find that one can tell a story with every photo, and am eager to use photography to showcase others’ stories in the Greet West Bellevue magazine. I cannot wait to start contributing and photographing the community!