/April2011

scene THE

Arts and entertainment for the Eastside

April 2011

Built Green

Houses with solar power, rain harvesting, radiant heating

Vegas glitz in Bellevue Take a bite out of Munchbar, restaurant of the stars

Inside scoop: dine

| wine | art | fashion | cheap thrills

THE scene

2 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

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the scoop

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april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 3

10

scene THE

6 DINE | Munchbar, a star-studded Las Vegas transplant

6

7 CHEAP THRILLS | Save money, shop second-hand 10 COVER STORY | Living better in green-built homes 13 COMEDY | Felipe Esparza, winner of “Last Comic Standing” 15 FASHION | 5-years-old and looking chic 18 LOUD & ABOUT | Heija’s son gets a “halfro”

18

scene

the editorial note

4 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

The Scene is a publication of the Bellevue Reporter.

2700 Richards Rd. Suite 201, Bellevue WA, 98005.

425.391.0363 www.thebellevuescene.com

You are more powerful than you think

Publisher Janet Taylor

So much of the time, humans are powerless in this world. We of Japanese

Managing Editor Craig Groshart

climate change, the global economic slump, or the tragedies and cruel misfortunes that

Assistant Editor Gabrielle Nomura Contributing Writers Nat Levy, Rose Dennis and Heija Nunn Layout Designers Tek Chai and Gabrielle Nomura Photographer Chad Coleman Advertising Kali Stanger, Sales Manager 425.802.7306 Advertising 425.453.4270 A division of

When massive tremors and a catastrophic tsunami devastated the northeastern coast of Japan on March 11, it was a sobering reminder: ancestry call it, shikata ga nai (it can’t be helped). Whether it’s the wrath of nature or happen in our daily lives, like losing a job, we often can’t control what happens.

But, instead of wallowing in our inabilities, there is something people can do: whether it’s donating to the relief efforts in Japan (which I highly encourage you by texting “RedCross” to 90999, and a $10 donation will show up on your next cell phone bill), or by making more conscious, mindful choices about aspects of your life that you can control. This is what David and Millie Huang, featured in our cover story, have chosen to do. The Huangs are just one of the Bellevue families choosing to reduce their environmental footprint, save money on their utility bills and live in a more healthy household with green technology. Rebecca Klein, a fashion blogger featured in our second-hand shopping story, looks at the positives of recycling clothing by rocking a vintage look.

To better illustrate what I mean, my grandmother has this “Live with Intention Calendar” hanging on her kitchen wall that I sometimes tease her about because it’s kind of sappy.

It combines Asian-looking paintings with inspirational sayings. One of the sayings, however, really deserves some thought: “It’s wonderful to wake up in the morning knowing you’re doing all that you can do.” I invite you all to find out what that’s like, by living purposeful, thoughtful, effective lives – whatever that means to you.

Follow us on Twitter @bellevuescene

Gabrielle Nomura, Assistant Editor gnomura@bellevuereporter.com Twitter: @GabrielleKazuko

Photo by Mark Malijan

THE

THE scene

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 5

BEST PLACES

SE AT TLE

“Crossroads is aptly known as the Eastside’s living room.”

– Best Places Seattle, 11th Edition by Monica Fischer

Your passport to the flavors of the world.

20+ International restaurants e ave n

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Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night

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6 | thebellevuescene.com | april

2011

Munchbar:

the bite

STORY BY NAT LEVY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEAM PHOTOGENIC

Localizing Las Vegas swagger in Bellevue

B

ellevue is a long way from Las Vegas. Strip clubs and casinos don’t line Northeast Eighth or Bellevue Way. But one Las Vegas transplant is enjoying great success here thus far.

Munchbar combines a star-studded atmosphere with good food and amazing deals (who can turn down nickle PBRs?) The bar can’t be boxed into a simple definition; it makes for an outstanding place to watch the big game, a quality after-work meet up, or a family dinner. It can be the ultimate destination on a night out, or a rendezvous point the next day, after you’ve had a little too much fun.

Since its opening on Jan. 28, Munchbar has brought the goods with the likes of Mario Lopez for the opening, former NFL pro-bowl running back Larry Johnson as a DJ, and many more stars. This wasn’t just a publicity stunt to spur interest in the restaurant’s opening. Johnson will be back, and the bar will hold the official birthday party of Carmen Electra on April 23. The restaurant’s connection with its Las Vegas location makes these happenings a possibility.

“Our Vegas people are really well connected, and they’re able to get some people out

here to promote us and have some fun with it,” says Chef Seis Kamimura, who previously worked for Wolfgang Puck and founded the Boca Hotel in Seattle.

The celebrities aren’t the only flashy aspects of the bar. The walls are adorned with artistic graffiti painting, while a variety of lighting styles and piped in music creates a fun, casual atmosphere. For the drinker, Munchbar has numerous local microbrew options and nearly unlimited beers on tap (don’t forget the nickel PBR deal that actually costs 38 cents because of Washington liquor laws). TVs light up all sides of the bar, including a triumvirate of projector screens hanging from the ceiling.

For the discount hounds, Munchbar’s penchant for deals will be a nice incentive.

Followers of the place on Facebook and Twitter often receive special offers, and Kamimura said more deals like the nickel PBRs will roll out in the future.

As the weekend approaches, Munchbar matches the desire of the people to get loose and have a little fun. Gone are the tables in the middle of the restaurant, as guest DJs come in for the ultra lounge on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Those looking for something different can catch the dueling piano bar.

But, through all this, Kamimura doesn’t want the food to be overshadowed.

At the center of Munchbar’s many munchies is the hangover pizza. Already gaining steam around town and in the social media world, this dish will cure what ails you. A soft and flaky crust covered in cheese, onions, bacon, and the topper, a fried egg, will make even the most hung-over Sunday morning victim journey to the restaurant for the cure.

“It’s got bacon and egg and just everything you’d want for breakfast right there,” Kamimura says. “During drinking, after drinking, it’s good for any time actually.”

But the place is no one-dish pony. Munchbar features fresh seafood dishes such as a ridiculous Dungeness crab salad, extremely popular mahimahi tacos, and down-home stalwarts such as a very filling bowl of chili, or formidably stacked burger, all topped off with a silver bucket full of deliciously salted shoe-string french fries.

These signature dishes are flanked by a supporting cast of appetizers that traverse the appetites of any potential diner.

Though only less than two months in, Kamimura is most encouraged by the diverse clientele, varied menu and events Munchbar has brought in.

Extra host, actor and TV personality, Mario Lopez being interviewed by Patti Curtis of Team Photogenic “We thought it’d be kind of late-20s mid-30s but we’re finding all different types are coming in depending on the night,” he says. at the grand opening of Munchbar and the Dueling Piano Bar in Bellevue.

cheap thrills

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 7

Secondhand Style Designer brands in used clothing stores

W

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS BY CHAD COLEMAN

hen someone compliments her for what she’s wearing, Bellevue fashion blogger, Rebecca Klein likes being able to say, “Why thank you. It’s vintage.”

There are plenty of reasons to compliment vintage and secondhand clothing, whether it’s for bringing back a winning retro look, having the smarts to save money in the economic slump or for benefitting the earth by recycling gently-used garments at consignment stores.

With 1970s chic making a comeback in off-the-shoulder Dolce & Gabbana peasant blouses and Yves Saint Laurent wide-leg trousers and pantsuits, snagging an up-to-date look, even from older garments is easy for those who don’t mind sifting through the racks.

Gucci, St. John, Dior, Coach, Nordstrom and Macy’s are some brands found at the Re-Dress Shop, a consignment store on 140th Avenue that allows people to bring in their designer and better-namebrand clothing and receive half of what the item

sells for. The store gets a little of everyone coming in, from women in their 20s, to businesswomen who come in looking for professional attire.

High-end retail outlets such as Neiman Marcus on the Eastside make for even better secondhand shopping in Bellevue, says Re-Dress Shop owner, Kelly Boyd. The people who shop at the Bravern and Bellevue Collection are often the same people who bring in their clothes for consignment.

The high-end recycled clothing found at Your Sister’s Closet is another example where one can find evidence that fashion-savvy women live in Bellevue. An institution of secondhand styles, Your Sister’s Closet has been in its location for 30 years. In addition to the clothing, customers love the selection of handbags, petite through plus sizes, free coffee and designer labels from Chicos, Anne Taylor, to Prada, Chanel and St. Johns, says owner Jennifer Kang.

“It’s not a department store where you simply find what’s trendy,” Kang says.

“Everybody has unique taste and they can express that through what they find here. I love that every item has a unique story.”

Rebecca Klein, Fashion blogger: eastsidefashion.com

Wearing: (Top) Dolce & Gabbana dress. $222.99. (Below) Miss Lucille hat, $31.99; Max Studio dress, $31.99.

Source: Your Sister’s Closet.

Where to go: Between Friends Consignment & Gifts www.bfconsignment.com 137 106th Ave. N.E., Bellevue | 425-455-0343

Mercer Island Thrift Shop

Black peep-toe heels: $27.90.

Source: Forever 21

Plato’s Closet www.platoscloset.com 14125 N.E. 20th St., Bellevue | 425-603-9494

www.mercergov.org/thriftshop www.miyfs.org/thriftshop.asp 7710 S.E. 34th St., Mercer Island | 206-275-7760

Your Sister’s Closet

Re-Dress Consignment Shop

Goodwill Industries

www.redressshop.com 1645 140th N.E. #B8, Bellevue | 425-746-7984

www.yoursisterscloset.com 11810 N.E. Eighth St., Bellevue | 425-223-2100

www.seattlegoodwill.org/shop/stores/bellevue 14515 N.E. 20th St., Bellevue | 425-649-2080

THE scene

8 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

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THE scene

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Because it’s a Dog’s Life

Bellevue (Life) Style

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10 | thebellevuescene.com | april

the

2011

Going green

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA PHOTOS BY CHAD COLEMAN

More than a quest to save the planet, Bellevue’s sustainable homes are all about style, comfort, coziness and living better.

T

he air in David and Millie Huang’s home could turn the most asthmatic, allergic person into a deep breather.

Step through the oversized front door and into a totally pristine environment, from the quality of the air to the home’s green footprint.

The couple used sustainable technology during the construction of their LEED-certified, architectural anomaly in Bellevue’s Greenwich Crest neighborhood. But saving the planet wasn’t their only priority after the chemical engineer (Millie) and architect (David) fell in love

Some of the home’s green features:

at a downtown Seattle bus stop, married and began living happily ever after in eco-bliss, hybrid, baby girl and all.

“To be honest, I’m not a tree-hugger,” David says. “I’m more on the practical side. For me, it’s about living a balanced lifestyle and saving money as well.”

While the building is new, the Huangs only finished construction and moved in October 2010, the mold and mildew that sneakily find their way into so many houses in the soggy Pacific Northwest, will never touch these sleek, futuristic-looking walls.

Rainwater harvesting.

Reused for toilet flushing, laundry, car washing and irrigation.

Renewable & sustainable materials

Bamboo flooring, fly ash concrete mix, recycled content countertops and metal roofing.

cover This is due in part to the attention the couple has given to sealing gaps between windows and doors to create an “air-tight” house. The insulation and heat recovery ventilator help too. Fresh air flows in through a ventilator that has a high efficiency filter. Structurally insulated panels mean less energy loss and not having to turn the thermostat up as much.

Windows and skylights that bring in natural light mean not having to turn on the lights during the daytime. Dual flush toilets help save water. These systems, just to name a few, work so well that the couple was in the top 10 percent energy efficiency in their neighborhood this winter.

Yet, people often think that being environmentally-friendly means going without certain luxuries. In reality, it’s not about sitting in darkness and freezing. It’s about breathing clean air, shrinking the utilities bill, increasing a property value and, as a bonus, doing one’s part to combat climate change. For those who can afford it, all it takes is some advanced planning and research.

While building a home from scratch is always a giant financial undertaking, (especially in this economy), and green technology can cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, the payoff comes later, when one is actually living in the house. “[People say], ‘Is what I have to do to the save the planet going to significantly change my life?

There is an inherent belief that it’s going to cost more money,” says Matt Muhsam, founder of real estate company, GreenDwellingSeattle, which works with green-builders in Bellevue.

It may seem like there aren’t many sustainable houses on the Eastside. The two most visible ones in Bellevue are arguably David and Millie’s and the “Zero Energy Idea House” on Lake Sammamish Parkway, owned and built by Donna and Riley Shirey (1,630 square feet and energy bills less than $40 a month). Both couples maintain websites for their homes and have hosted educational, open-to-the public tours.

But there are more sustainable houses here than one may realize, whether, like the Huang’s home, it’s certified with a standard such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or an average home that’s been remodeled to include green technology, such as efficient insulation.

Solar hot water heater

Providing 100 percent of the domestic hot water use during the summers; helps boost temperature during the winters.

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 11

Millie Huang and her daughter Angeline sit in their living room. Millie and her husband David built their “Concept Green Home” (left) in Bellevue over the course of a year.

The Eastside has an unquenchable thirst for living in modern buildings, Muhsam says. The sustainable technology isn’t the driving factor, however. People are excited about the look of modern architecture, but the homes that happen to have that aesthetic are frequently built green, he says.

YS Development in Bellevue is one of the green builders Muhsam has worked with. YS projects include an “Eco-Village” in Redmond certified to 5-Star Built Green & Energy Star Home (a set of standards, like LEED, used in the green-building crowd). The village will include seven homes, ranging from 1,600-1,800 square footage of space, with attached parking, storage and landscaping included, ranging from $585,000-675,000.

YS also has a house on N.E. 39th Street: 5,542 square feet, five [ more GREEN HOME on page 12 ]

Radiant heat floor

Space heating distributed by a high-efficiency hydronic radiant floor system. The floors have high thermal mass to ensure a steady temperature.

12 | thebellevuescene.com | april

the cover

2011

Sustainablybuilt homes [ GREEN HOME from page 11 ]

bedrooms, four bathrooms, hot tub, sport court and sustainable features. It’s about $2.4 million.

Not all environmentally-friendly homes cost so much, though. The Huangs wouldn’t disclose how much their Green-Concept Home, a year-long project, cost. But their friends are often surprised that the couple came out of it under budget.

Anyone can spend millions of dollars on a home.

But the couple wanted to show this was a reasonable undertaking for a middle-class family. David, a principal with Modus V Studio firm, who designed the building, and Millie, who did all the interior decorating, worked together to make their goal a reality.

He designed the living room and office area to include lofted ceilings, creating a comfortable, luxurious amount of space. The bedroom designs have lower ceilings to provide more intimacy and coziness.

Modern materials such as concrete and aluminum are paired throughout the house with bamboo and chic, funky wall paper, with Millie’s artistic vision, giving the home a personality that’s inviting and uncluttered, but not sterile.

An even bigger priority, more than the look of the house or the innovative features, was giving the couple’s 8-month-old, Angeline, a home fit for her to grow up in.

From good nutrition, saving money and helping the planet, “We want to be an example for her,” says Millie, holding her baby girl’s arms as she hops with glee on the polished concrete floor (a surface that holds onto heat and saves energy, of course).

It won’t be long before Angeline is taking her first barefoot steps on her own, following her parents’ example.

(Top) The master bedroom; (bottom, far right) kitchen; (middle) upstairs office; (far left) this open hatch is the access point to a 1,700 gallon underground rainwater storage tank, which collects rain water run-off from the roof and foundation and is eventually reused for toilet flushing, laundry, car washing and irrigation.

Some of the home’s green features:

Low VOC paints

Low toxic interior paints for better indoor air quality.

Metal roof

Keeps the rainwater clean for reuse; allows easy clip-on for solar panels.

laughs

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 13

All eyes on funny Felipe

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FELIPESWORLD.COM Industries, which is a gang-prevention organization that helps people stay out of prison. The deal with NBC means that if say someone from Fox has an idea for a show for me, NBC has first look.

scene: What was it like getting to throw the first pitch for the Dodgers?

FE: Oh man, that was a great pitch. I was so excited for that because I used to work at the stadium making hot dogs.

scene: What’s one show you would kill to be on?

FE: “The Office.” I would play a guy that came in to deliver something but he doesn’t know what do, he’s just a weirdo.

scene: Speaking of “The Office,” Craig Robinson who plays Darryl on the show, hosted “Last Comic Standing.”

FE: Yeah, he’s a nice guy. We actually did a show together in 2000 in Mesquite, Nevada when he was a nobody. He showed up with a big piano and he’d tell jokes, play the piano and sing.

scene: You’ve been doing standup for 16 years. You’ve

gained a lot of material during that time. How do you usually get inspired?

FE: From my neighborhood, I’m from Boyle Heights but I now live in Echo Park. From outside and from the news.

Boyle Heights used to be a horrible neighborhood, with a lot of gangs and graffiti, and I have social-issues jokes about it.

scene: What are your pet peeves?

FE: I have no pets.

scene: How has gaining national television exposure

changed you?

FE: It has changed me a lot. I’m more responsible now. I hired a personal assistant. I started a corporation called felipesword.com where I sell merchandise. I’ve grown up a lot. I’m a better comedian.

scene: Ever been to Seattle or Bellevue before? What are

your impressions?

FE: I went to Seattle to some university where the color is purple and gold. The people there are kind of like the people in San Francisco but not as trendy and cooler than people in Portland.

scene: What does the future hold for you?

FE: I think I’m going to end up having a guest spot on “The Tonight Show” a couple times. I’m confident that I’m a funny guy with a stage presence and an appearance that makes people want to look. I’m positive that if they put me on any sitcom or any kind of show and gave me a team we could take that show to the top 20, then to the top 10.

scene: In part, because of your appearance?

FE: No. Because I have that sparkle, baby.

scene: How does your Mexican heritage inform your

I

t’s the hair. Black, wild, unruly, a shoulder-length mini-mane one could seemingly get lost in, first draws the eye toward comedian Felipe Esparza.

But once there, one’s gaze can’t help but notice the unmistakable Mexican-American accent, the neck beard, the smile and the man who, somewhere in between a teddy bear and an Aztec warrior, we can’t help but stare at. Esparza, winner of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” has appeared on numerous television shows, including ABC’s “Comics Unleashed,” Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend,” “Russell Simmons Presents Stand-Up at the El Rey,” and Showtime’s “Comics Without Borders.” The man who came from the school of hard knocks in East Los Angeles discusses how he managed to escape a life of prison, gangs and violence because he likes to make people laugh.

scene: You won NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” Tell me

about your winnings, the $250,000 prize and an exclusive talent deal with NBC? FE: I donated money to NPR, as well as Homeboy

standup?

FE: You hear it when I talk. A lot of people say my material is ethnic material. I say it’s just funny. I do appeal to Mexicans and Latinos, though. I make jokes about burglars.

scene: If you weren’t doing standup, what would you be

doing?

FE: I’d probably be robbing and stealing. I’d be in prison.

You know when you look at an inmate and he looks so terrible and you think, ‘He has so much potential, this guy’s a genius. If he hadn’t been locked up what could he have become?’ Well, I’m one of those rare people who managed to do something with my life instead of being locked up.

scene: What helped you escape that fate?

FE: I like making people laugh instead of hurting people.

scene: What’s your guilty pleasure?

FE: Man, like everything. I like to eat food. I like cakes.

I like pastries. Some people just wanna keep eating hamburgers and pizza. For me, it’s cupcakes and cookies.

For my birthday, my girl bought me these blue velvet cupcakes. So good.

Felipe Esparza will perform at the Parlor Live Comedy Club April 7-9. For tickets and more information, go to parlorlive.com and felipesworld.com.

14 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

We call

THE scene

BullSh** . . . On online popularity contests FEEL FREE TO VENT HERE

Kanye West’s Twitter account is one of the more heinous examples of selfserving douchebaggery online. Kanye’s followers as of March 14, 2011: 2.7 million. People Kanye follows as of March 14, 2011: zero. The Louis Vuitton Don is not alone. I’m calling BS on you, Twitter-user-who-purposely-triesto-have-way-more-followers-than-people-you’re-following. And tweeps, this ego-stroking trend is not just a celebrity thing.

I thought the pointless popularity contests of who has the most online friends left with Myspace, the Internet’s abandoned amusement park. Today, it should be more about quality, rather than quantity. I de-friend old high school classmates and random acquaintances on Facebook all the time. On Twitter, I follow whoever interests with me without keeping tally (I love you, @PNBallet, @LadyGaga and @TheEllenShow!) I am now following 249 people, more than the 147 people are following me. As someone who has left the popularity contests up to high-school students and Kanye West, that’s good enough for me. Contribute to this anonymous column by e-mailing what irks you to the assistant editor at gnomura@bellevuereporter.com.

Some people talk about doing great things. Others just do them.

Sign up for classes now at bellevuecollege.edu.

Follow BC on Facebook.

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april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 15

the look

What is the 5-year-old fashionista wearing?| Spring ‘11

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORDSTROM

W

hen high-end children’s clothing company Miki House added Bellevue to its roster of international locations this winter, locals took note.

In the U.S., Miki House clothing is available at the Corner Shop in Bloomingdale’s New York, at Fred Segal in Los Angeles, and other top-end stores. Devotees of the Japanese brand rave about clothing cuts, design and stitching.

The Bellevue store opening was just another reminder of the fashion capital this city is, not just for adults, but

for mini-hipsters, too.

While Bellevue parents favor practicality, comfort (and non-itchiness) over trendiness, Kimberly Wong, owner of Lamb’s Ears European children’s boutique in Bellevue says she’s observed popular fashion choices and trends among parents buying for their kids, such as the layered clothing styles for both boys and girls. An example would be a short-sleeve shirt that looks like it has a longsleeve shirt underneath it.

Even clothing for kids can be pretty chic.

Children wearing Nordstrom brand Peek…Aren’t You Curious. Nordstrom (100 Bellevue Square) Some of the children’s is one of a selection of high-end children’s clothing options, including Miki House (1032 106th Avenue clothing Jolene Larson sees at N.E., Suite 123) and Lamb’s Ears (143 106th Ave. N.E.) and Gymboree, (140 Bellevue Square). her corporate Nordstrom job is so cute, she wished it came in Children’s clothing more closely mimics adult styles as women’s sizes. youngsters transition from toddlers to school kids. By the “I love Mini Boden and Ella Moss,” says Larson, a time children are 5, their clothing can be more tailored, product coordinator for infants and kids clothing who less whimsical and more practical. works with buyers and vendors to get products shot With springtime quickly approaching, every boy needs and styled for the company’s website. “Just For Wraps a pair of cargo shorts and a plaid button-down with a is coming out with a fantastic line of Boho styles that I cool screen-print T-shirt, Larson says. Sunglasses and would wear.” accessories are becoming more popular among kids.

She says it’s all about boho dresses, skorts and skirts, swim suit with cover-ups, fedoras, sun glasses and gladiator sandals for girls.

“Kid’s clothing more closely When Larson becomes a mom someday, she’s looking mimics adult styles as forward to dressing her little one “trendy-preppy.”

“A mixture of Burberry, Benetton, and Little Ella. youngsters transition from Little Ella is Ella Moss’s line for kids and my goodness, it toddlers to school kids.” is adorable,” she says.

{

}

THE scene

16 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

Downtown Bellevue Where to go • What to do • What to see • Where to be

Currently, the paintings of Charlie Barr will run through April 10 and our Group Exhibit will start April 13 through May 8.

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www.amorechocolatesonmain.com

Visit our cozy little shop and sample a hand dipped chocolate, homemade cookies and more...

It’s not just Chocolate... It’s Amore 10149 1/2 Main St . Bellevue . 425-453-4553

Conveniently located with FREE parking at Bellevue Place, the Gallery is beautifully situated on the courtyard of the Hyatt Hotel next to Kreiss furniture and Joey’s restaurant.

Please join us for a monthly Vernissage every Second Wednesday and a Finissage every First Friday.

Art in Bellevue

800 Bellevue Way N.E. #111 www.ArtInBellevue.com 425.283.0461

High End Women’s Consignment Clothing and Accessories

Charlie Barr Thru April 10

Group Exhibit April 13 - May 8

Art in Bellevue

137 106th Ave NE Bellevue, WA 98004 425.455.0343

425.283.0461 ArtInBellevue.com

800 Bellevue Way NE | Bellevue | WA 98004

469385

w

ith 25 years of an Eastside presence, the Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery has become your singular source for exceptional fine art from a dealer who prides himself on integrity, fair values and a sense of community.

Mon-Fri 10 AM - 6:30 PM Sat 11 AM - 5 PM • Sun 12 - 4 PM

Health Care Corner Postponing a dental appointment?

Dentistry for your Lifetime Smile!

A COMPLIMENTARY HOME TEETH BLEACHING KIT or A PREMIUM PHILIPS SONICARE ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH One per household. Offer limited to supplies on hand. Restrictions apply. Please call for details.

Dr. Tokiko M. Poppe, D.D.S.

1515 116th Ave. N.E., Suite 301 Bellevue, WA 98004 425.458.4940 • www.cosmosdentistry.com

Nobody likes to see a dentist. However, it is a necessity and can be fun! Dr. Poppe and her team make sure that your dental appointment will be as pleasant as possible with the utmost in personal attention. We believe that ongoing dental care prevents major oral and systemic health problems in the future.

We are a paperless, modern, eco-friendly dental office with an absolute commitment to offer you the finest treatment utilizing the latest technology available.

New Patients/Emergency Always Welcome!

Please Contact Us for an Appointment 425-458-4940

• Check-ups & Cleaning • Pampering Service During Treatment • Low Radiation X-rays • Root Canal Therapy • Cosmetic Whitening, Veneers, Bonding & Crowns • Implants, Gum Treatments, Extractions, Dentures • Night guards, Sports guards, etc • Movies & TV Available During Treatments • Family appointments

Bellevue Spinal Decompression Center

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bellevuespinal.com 12951 Bel-Red Rd. Ste 120, Bellevue

425-455-3636

Book Your Appointment Today!

425-999-2628 Dr. DeEtta Gray, MD, FRCPC

Specializing in Skin Disease, Cosmetic Dermatology, Laser and Skin Surgery • Same Week Appointments Available!

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Pain or Numbness down legs or arms?

Before surgery try our treatment.

RECEivE 50% oFF oF YouR FiRsT PhoTo REjuvEnATion 1515 116th Ave ne, Suite 307 bellevue • www.pinnacledermatology.com

the voice

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 17

Words of wisdom, etiquette and advice for the Eastsider

Ask Rose

Dear Rose, I recently had dinner at a local restaurant and I was not pleased with the service our server provided throughout the evening. Needless to say, I wanted to tell him my thoughts, but left a small tip instead. What should I do in a situation like this? – Unhappy Restaurant Patron Dear Unhappy, There are times when a lady or gentleman is perfectly justified in lodging a complaint.

It is appropriate if you have been treated rudely, are the target of an undeserved affront, and when you have received poor service. You have every right to make your displeasure known-not only for the sake of your bruised and hurt feelings, but also in hopes that the unpleasantness will not happen again.

It is useless to make a complaint unless it is made to the right person. When receiving inferior service in a restaurant, do not waste your breath complaining directly to the server, who may feel no need or compulsion to amend his behavior. Instead, you should go directly to the manager or owner of the restaurant. I suggest doing this right away, and in person if possible; otherwise, you can personally call them the next day or put your concerns in a written note, specifically describing your reasons for displeasure. Either way, do not make any threats, as you always have the option of taking your business elsewhere. As far as the server goes, your small tip showed your dissatisfaction, without verbally expressing your frustration. ..........................................................................................................................

Dear Rose, I am in my first year of management with a high tech company. I was completely taken aback by my immediate boss at our weekly team meeting, where I unfortunately ended up crying in front of everyone.

Needless to say, I am embarrassed and hurt. Your suggestions on how to proceed would be appreciated.

– Hopeful For No More Tears

Dear Rose,

I want to reward myself with a tattoo when I graduate from college. My girlfriend thinks my abdomen would be a good location but I prefer the neck. What are your thoughts?

– Soon to be inked

Dear Hopeful , When you feel that you are being treated rudely, you must be sure that you always

stand up for yourself and deal with it face-to-face and as privately as possible. I suggest that you talk to your boss in a one–on-one setting beyond a coworker’s ear. Drinks after work are highly not recommended. In a situation where your boss brought you to tears through his or her boorish behavior, you do not need to apologize for your behavior. Instead, you should tell him, forthrightly, “Jerry, our encounter this morning got entirely out of hand. Even if you don’t respect my opinion, I expect you to watch your language in the future.” If you realize that your emotions have gotten the best of you, just as your boss’ anger got the best of him, apologize simply and directly saying, “Jerry, my behavior this morning was inappropriate. I hope you’ll forgive me for creating an awkward situation.” Be sure to make it very clear that his conduct was and is not acceptable. The best scenario, when a lady realizes that her emotions may be getting out of hand, excuses herself from the situation-just as a gentleman would do, should his temper get the best of him. As far as your coworkers go, hopefully they too, will move on and learn from this unfortunate situation.

Dear Inked,

I agree with your girlfriend that your tattoo should not be openly in view. Tattoos are often selected for symbolic and personal reasons. Down the road, your current tattoo design may not be as important to you. Having your tattoo hidden may the best decision for you until your reach your career potential and are not concerned how others perceive you. You may also consider waiting a few months to think on your design. Once a tattoo is inked on your skin, removal is expensive and painful.

Rose Dennis has 15 years experience as a tenured college professor at Edmonds Community College, teaching classes in Fashion, Retail, Marketing and Business Management. (Photo courtesy of Team Photogenic)

Want to Ask Rose? Send your questions to askrose@live.com

.......................................................

Dear Rose, What does one do when your dinner partner has something stuck between their teeth?

– Spinach Stuck Between One’s Incisors

Dear Clean Incisors, You must alert your friend or love interest the minute you see an offending leftover morsel. If you are way across the table, hopefully you can gesture to your own teeth when you have eye contact, and he or she will understand the unfortunate situation at hand. If you are seated close, you can say, “You might want to use your napkin or take a sip of water, as you have a little bit of spinach stuck to one of your teeth.” If the spinach is still there, your friend should politely excuse him or herself and go to the restroom, as a lady or gentleman never uses a toothpick openly in the public, let alone at the dinner table.

18 | thebellevuescene.com | april

et cetera

2011

loud & about

A little off the top HEIJA NUNN

We are curly haired people. My German mother has thick wavy hair and my black father had tight curls. Together they gave me the unruly tangle that I manage in the laziest way possible; a ponytail. Anything else would require time, dedication, skill and more than a passing interest in

good hair days.

My three kids inherited varying degrees of curls, yet hair care at our house verges on benign neglect. In August, immediately after his ritual back-to-school head shearing, my middle son, 12-year-old Venom Pen, decided to test the outer limits of his hair’s pouf by growing an afro, or as I more accurately call it, a “halfro.” In no time at all he was attracting attention and using a pick to shape his hair into a perfect circle each morning.

As his hair grew, so did his popularity. Every day there were comments, questions, pats and pulls. Eventually his afro reached nearly four inches in length and Venom

April An Eastsider’s guide April 1

Free First Friday Lecture

Join San Francisco-based artist Wanxin Zhang whose exhibit “A 10-Year Survey” featuring larger-than-life ceramic sculptures is on view at BAM. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Free, but seating is limited. RSVP at 425-519-0770.

April 1,3,7,9

when I get my own hair cut. Mike Pen’s hair entered the room before he has hair like Venom Pen’s but was did. When Lacrosse season started quick to point out that his barbers he came back from practices with cut hair, ALL hair. During our mangled and matted hair. Then one visit we met Melvin, whose smile day he asked for a new helmet, “Benever wavered as he snipped, shaved cause I grew out of mine.” Right. (yeah, they do straight edge too) We did what any parents would do and clipped his way through three when faced with a choice between a different customers pausing to greet $215 helmet and a $13 haircut. We the steady stream of visitors who used mind control, subterfuge and stopped in just to say hi. Sistafoo bribes to guide Venom Pen to his own played with Daniels’ daughter while spontaneous decision to get a haircut.

I chatted with his wife about schools Luckily, this coincided with my own and boys. exciting discovery; Standing on Top, Meanwhile, Mike Daniels was ‘Venom Pen’ gets his ‘halfro’. a new Barber Shop in Factoria Mall, busy transforming Venom Pen’s hair, in-between Target and KidsQuest treating him like a king while he gave Children’s Museum. A bright, open and friendly place him a head fit for a helmet. Two weeks later V.P. is still with six chairs and four flat screen televisions, Standing “Standing on Top.” on Top is the first Bellevue store in a 17-year Northwest Wanna say Hiya to Heija? Follow her on Twitter history for owner Mike Daniels whose goal is to combine (@Heija) Friend her on Facebook or relax, sit back, a traditional barber shop experience with modern cuts and silently judge her life in the flickering glow of your and his passion for personal, friendly service. computer screen at her blog The Worst Mother in the Curly hair requires a different skill set, so I always look for someone with curly hair or ask about experience World (www.Heija.com).

All month

The Mysterious Content of Softness

Bringing together 11 national and international artists, The Mysterious Content of Softness is an exploration of the transformative power of fiber and its connection to the human body.

The very nature of fiber Lauren DiCioccio’s ‘House of Cards’ – sometimes soft and flexible, while at other times rough and rigid – carries with it a unique metaphor for what it means to be human. Through June 26 at the Bellevue Arts Museum, Bellevue Arts Museum, 510 Bellevue Way N.E., 425- 519-0770.

Don Giovanni

Drama and comedy collide as Seattle Opera explores the various incarnations of opera’s most famous leading man on his day of reckoning in the new Seattle Opera Young Artists Program production of Mozart and da Ponte’s immortal Don Giovanni. Seattle Opera ticket office, 206-389-7676.

April 29-May 1 Cinderella

The whole family will enjoy this favorite classic children’s story that is filled with music and dance.

Bellevue Youth Theatre. Info at 425-452-7155.

All month

Thoughts from the Divine

a series of mixed medium pieces on canvas that use alphabet letters and found objects as a base and build layer-upon-layer of texture and color into the finished works. The multi-layered collages allow viewers to embark on a fascinating journey of discovery as they take in each layer of meaning. Reilly’s exhibit will be shown at Pogacha of Bellevue, 119 106th Ave N.E.

All month

It’s a Small World After All

All month

Master of Deception – The Furniture of John Cederquist

Reality and illusion brilliantly merge in John Cederquist’s fine art furniture. Free-standing cabinets in the shape of kimonos and other twoand three-dimensional works are infused with vivid imagery that con-

stantly shifts viewpoints without warning or logic. Flat surfaces come to life and form no longer follows function. Through May 15 at the Bellevue Arts Museum, 510 Bellevue Way N.E., 425- 519-0770.

Features inspired photography from Nicolette Jahnke’s travels around the globe. An eclectic mix of love shots, natural scenes and wildlife, Jahke’s photographs showcase her travels brilliantly. Jahnke’s exhibit will be shown at Pogacha of Issaquah.

The Towel Chair

Mediteranean sunset too

What’s New ?

THE scene

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 19

Bridle Trails - Bellevue | Lavish Estate | $1,850,000

East Lake Sammamish | Luxury View Estate | $1,175,000

Downtown Kirkland | Luxury View Home | $998,000

Downtown Kirkland | Stunning Craftsman | $975,000

5 bedrooms | 5.25 bathrooms | 6,170 SqFt Home | 35,009 SqFt Lot Media room | Bonus room | Excercise room | Hobby room Completely renovated | Entertainment deck | MLS # 192438

4 bedrooms | 3.5 bathrooms | 2,851 SqFt Home | Elevator Main floor guest suite | Generous great room Spa-like master suite with gas fireplace | MLS # 188198

6 bedrooms | 8 bathrooms | 5,870 SqFt Home | 29,452 SqFt Lot Generous, versatile floorplan | Renovated in 2008 - 2009 Lower level Mother-In-Law with full kitchen | MLS # 193355

4 bedrooms | 3.5 bathrooms | 2,781 SqFt Home | Elevator Exquisite, high-end finishes | Option for rooftop view deck Master suite with private deck | MLS # 159065

Fabulous New Price

468910

Bayshore East | Waterfront Condo | $599,000 2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | 1,735 SqFt Home Covered view deck | White country kitchen Fabulous Meydenbauer location | MLS # 109217

www.bethbillington.com www.bridletrailstoday.com

Bridle Trails - Kirkland | Updated Two-Story | $498,000 4 bedrooms | 2.5 bathrooms | 2,500 SqFt Home Updated kitchen and bathrooms | Convenient location Master suite with gorgeous 5-piece bath | MLS # 188722

Coldwell Banker Bain Int’l Presidents Premier Top 1%, CRS, GRI 425-450-5208

beth@bethbillington.com

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