The Scene - December 2012

scene the

Arts and entertainment for the Eastside

December 2012

‘ Tis The Season n Gifts for everyone on your list

n The Eastside’s best winter brews n Holiday decor

Also:

Grown-up fun at Snoqualmie Casino

Inside scoop: lifestyles | dine | wine | arts | music | nightlife

2 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

THE scene

scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 3

Inside Story

the

Happy Holidays from this hot mess of a family!

‘Tis the season

04

DINE

DRINK

Kirkland welcomes new Volterra restaurant

Breweries and taprooms on the Eastside

Dear reader, For as long as I can remember, my brothers and I have taken Santa pictures for our mom.

When we were younger, they were pretty traditional: mom dressed us in coordinating colors, I sat on Santa’s lap (the brothers stood behind), click - CHEESEEEEE. As we’ve gotten older - and a bit jaded by the idea of taking pictures with Mr. Claus - we’ve gotten a little more creative.

Four years ago we wore ugly sweaters; three years ago we all wore sunglasses and scarves; two years ago we wore footie pajamas - and asked the photographer to jump in. He accepted the offer, grabbed a pink robe from the intimates section and stood next to my oldest brother Kyle (aged 32). Did I mention my brother Kelly (aged 30) was holding someone else’s dog and sitting on Santa’s lap?

Completely normal.

Last year we added to the family - Kyle’s wife Megan joined the party and we pulled in my best friend Carlee for good measure.

For this issue of the Scene, we’re getting in to the holiday spirit. And while it might not be as eccentric as the Prosser family shenanigans, we’ve definitely got some surprises within these pages: a new restaurant in Kirkland, a cliché gift guide and all you need to know about entertainment at Snoqualmie Casino.

We’ve also got the scoop on where to find tasty craft beers on the Eastside - and tips on how to get your house ready for the holidays.

As you might expect, my family has become a bit of a spectacle at the Nordstrom Santa line around the holidays.

“Oh no,” they say. “What are they going to do this year?”

Probably the same sort of thing you’ll find in this issue.

Something awesome.

Entertainment

08

A look at Snoqualmie Casino’s endless entertainment

loud & ABout

Heija Nunn on Serving Grace

12

A holiday gift guide to die for

16

Helpful hints for holiday decorations

LAUGHS

COVER STORY

“Dot Com” of NBC’s “30 Rock” drops by Parlor Live

HOME

NIGHTLIFE

What’s happening on the Eastside

The Scene is a publication of the Bellevue Reporter.

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

425.453.4270 Follow us on Twitter TheEastsideScene.com @bellevuescene Publisher

Janet Taylor Managing Editor Craig Groshart Keegan Prosser, Assistant Editor kprosser@bellevuereporter.com

06

Assistant Editor Keegan Prosser

A publication of

10 15 18

Contributing Writers Raechel Dawson, Rose Dennis, Heija Nunn and Seth Truscott.

Design and Layout Craig Groshart and Keegan Prosser Advertising Advertising 425.453.4270

Dine

4 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

The heart of Italy

Save Over $700!

Manager’s Special

$2699

Quadra-Fire QFI30 Gas Insert Includes FREE RC200 Remote!

Standard Installation Included See Showroom For Details Gas Pipe Extra

By Raechel Dawson

Save $250!

December Special

50% Off

Standard Installation All Firebrick Gas Inserts See Showroom For Details

Get a $200 Rebate From PSE! You may qualify, our inserts do!

Visit our Bellevue showroom for more details: 13200 NE 20th, #100 or call 425-214-4366.

Free in-home consultations. *Offers may not be combined with other offers, and some limitations apply. See stores for details.

When Don Curtiss and Michelle Quisenberry were married in a little town in Tuscany, Italy they fell in love with more than each other. The town of 11,000 was more than a wedding destination, it was the inspiration for their award-winning, highly acclaimed Italian restaurant: Volterra.

Curtiss and Quisenberry opened their second Volterra restaurant in Kirkland this past September, nearly seven-and-a-half years after their first location in Ballard.

“We immediately knew Kirkland was the best place for us,” Quisenberry says. “If you could replicate the location of Volterra in Ballard, Kirkland is the best.”

The new location was specifically chosen so Eastside residents are able to access their restaurant without having to make the trek across the 520 bridge. Quisenberry says Kirkland is similar to Ballard in that it’s near the water, holds farmers markets and has a neighborhood, pedestrian-oriented feel.

The two Magnolia residents commuted back and forth for six months during the restaurant’s remodel. Quisenberry says their Kirkland location has a more modern design than the Ballard location, which is “rustic and historic.” The new restaurant also has an open kitchen, but she says they tied similar design elements to connect the two.

Quisenberry says since they opened their Kirkland location in September they’ve been quite busy.

“Dinners are very full,” she notes. “But we just started opening for lunch three weeks ago.”

She says they are still trying to get the word

out that they offer lunch. Their lunch menu is “more casual” and offers sandwiches, salads and pasta.

But the Wild Boar Tenderloin keeps customers coming back for dinner. The signature dish with gorgonzola mustard sauce is the favorite among Eastside customers as well as those in Ballard, she says.

“The Eastside clientele really likes to enjoy their dinner. The experience is much more leisurely,” she says. “In Ballard, guests tend to dine before another event.”

Quisenberry says Eastsiders tend to order more Washington wine while those in Ballard stick with Italian.

Aside from those differences, the Volterra in Kirkland is sure to give customers the same experience that critics, such as Rachael Ray, have deemed their “favorite restaurant on the planet.”

Volterra’s chef Curtiss draws his inspiration from his Italian mother as well as his love for Italy’s fine cuisine. Although Curtiss was trained in French cooking and holds an accounting degree, he continues to travel to Italy to get new ideas and meet with different producers.

“Don is amazing because he has this ability to balance his creativity and business savvy,” Quisenberry says of her husband. “Ultimately we want our guests to have an outstanding experience every time they come to Volterra.”

In two years, the couple hopes to spend their 10-year anniversary in Volterra, Italy.

Volterra is located at 121 Kirkland Ave. in Kirkland. Contact them at 425-202-7201 or email info@volterrarestaurant.com

THE scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 5

Drink

6 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Chilly libations Where to find the best craft beers on the Eastside this winter 22 oz bombers at the brewery and in a number of stores throughout Washington and northern Idaho.

BY KEEGAN PROSSER

Black Raven Brewing Company 14679 NE 95th Street, Redmond, WA 98052

Black Raven Brewing Company is a true neighborhood brewery with a small retail taproom. Owner and Brew Manager Beaux Bowman had been brewing beer for 8 years before he decided to open his own brewer in May 2009. Known for their experimental ingredients and flavors, Black Raven generally has 8 to 10 original beers on tap, in addition to a continually changing hand-picked selection of other notable Washington State beers.

Winter favorite: This December they’ll offer a Bourbon Barrel Aged brew called La Petite Mort (a strong, Belgian-style dark ale aged in a bourbon barrel) and a new concoction called Kitty Kat Blues (Nitro pale with vanilla, blueberries and catnip). Yes, the latter is people-friendly.

Mac & Jack’s Brewery 17825 Northeast 65th Street, Redmond, WA 98052

Mac & Jack’s Brewery is dedicated to making the finest ales in the Northwest, cultivating most of their ingredients from the Northwest - including malted barley and hops grown in Yakima. While they don’t have a brew pub, they offer samples - and the option to purchase beer to go - from their retail store.

Winter favorite: Cascadian Dark Ale. A Northwest style beer, this ale joins together pale & dark roasted malts with generous portions of Yakima Valley hops. This brew boasts the citrus and floral aromas of an IPA, complimented by a velvety smooth roasted malt flavor.

Available through New Years.

Snoqualmie Brewery and Taproom 8032 Falls Avenue Southeast, Snoqualmie, WA 98065

Located in historic downtown Snoqualmie, this brewery was founded in 1997 by Pat Anderson, David McKibben, Dave Eiffert, LeRoy Gmazel and Tom Antone. The taproom features seating for 180 patrons and two banquet rooms. Their products are available in

Winter favorite: Avalanche Winter Ale. This northwest style winter ale is deep ruby red when held to the light and features full-bodied, complex malt flavors balanced perfectly by distinctive Yakima Chinook and Cascade hops. It’s big, rich, smooth and satisfying.

Redhook Brewery 14300 NE 145th St., Woodinville, WA 98072

From a modest start in a former transmission shop in the Seattle neighborhood of Ballard, to the current breweries in Woodinville, WA and Portsmouth, NH, Redhook has become one of America’s most recognized craft breweries. The Woodinville facility hosts many events and festivities during the warmer months, and features the Forecasters Public House, and two rooms available for private events.

Winter favorite: Winterhook #28. Each year, Redhook’s Winterhook has changed slightly. Created by Brewing Manager Jen Talley, this year’s batch offers a rich caramel body that balances the big malt backbone with an aggressively dry hopped brew. Talley says it’s always a great sign when the pub employees love the brew. The verdict? They love it.

NEW: Bellevue Brewing Company 1820 130th Avenue N.E. Suite 2, Bellevue, WA 98005

The 12,000 square foot brewery accommodates a 6,000 square foot, 20-Barrel brewhouse and a 6,000 square foot taproom complete with three private hospitality rooms, a large L-shaped bar and comfortable seating options. The taproom will serve a variety of dishes prepared by local chef Rick Lowell, including hot and cold sandwiches, salads and appetizers - all made fresh, in house. In addition to their own beers, the Bellevue Brewing Company will feature beers from other local breweries, including Black Raven and Seven Seas (Gig Harbor).

Winter favorite: The newest option for tasty beers on the Eastside, BBC expects to host an open house on Dec. 3, with a Grand Opening set for Dec. 20. In addition to a selection of local beers, two of their original beers will be on tap for the open house: the oatmeal stout and the ESB. In the next few weeks they will also introduce their IPA and scotch ale.

BALLET BELLEVUE ´ Northwest Premiere:

Raj S. Johal, CFE

Licensed Private Investigator #3492 Agency #1915 P 206.714.4435 F 425.698.1398 www.bepreparedis.com - Investigative Services www.bepreparedss.com - Survival Supplies

15600 NE 8th Street B1-983 Bellevue, Washington 98008 Rj@bepreparedis.com Rj@bepreparedss.com

“Be Prepared”

December 28th – 30th The Theatre at Meydenbauer Center Bellevue Purchase tickets today at Brown Paper Tickets 1-800-838-3006 www.brownpapertickets.com

THE scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 7

give the gift of

entertainment jaNuary The Tubes

Friday, January 4th • 8Pm

Kool and the Gang Friday, January 11th • 8Pm

Chubby Checker Sunday, January 13th • 7Pm

Dave Mason

February

big bad Voodoo Daddy Friday, February 15th • 8Pm

Herman’s Hermits with special guests The Turtles Sunday February 17th • 7Pm

engelbert Humperdinck Thursday February 21st • 7Pm

Sunday, January 20th • 7Pm

On sale Friday, November 23 at Ticketmaster and the Snoqualmie Casino box office.

Driving East i-90, Exit 27 Driving WEst i-90, Exit 31 Snoqualmie, Wa • 425.888.1234 • SnoCaSino.Com Hours, prices, schedule, rules are subject to change without notice. must be 21+ to gamble.

facebook.com/SnoCasino twitter.com/SnoCasino

Etcetera

8 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Serving Grace:

H

loud & about

oliday traffic is the type of pressure cooker that tests even the most patient among us. Everyone has someplace to be and I was supposed to be there ten minutes ago. Intersection behavior is like a mini-personality indicator, especially at intricate woven dealies like the five-way stops near my house.

Northwest drivers are notoriously passive and generally polite. But how a driver reacts to another driver’s genuine fumble is a true test of grace. In response to those moments of benign stupidity, it is the driver who flips a smile and an understanding wave instead of a manicured middle finger HEIJA NUNN who earns my relieved admiration and immediate belief that they must be a good person in every other way.

I believe that we all “Say Grace” in different ways; it might be through actual prayer, a thoughtful journal, a state of being, an unplanned reflection or

A John Howie Restaurant

Learning to appreciate the little things, during the holidays - and beyond

another expression of gratitude for our proverbial blessings. Each day we are also presented a myriad of opportunities to serve grace, to present our softest side to the world, offering a velvet hand instead of a stony fist. Today is the perfect day to stop and purposefully notice those who are serving grace; they’re everywhere.

Notice the neighbors and volunteers who see a need and work to fill it; whether it is making sure everyone gets a yearbook, arranging yet another annual food or turkey drive or quietly spending countless hours working behind the scenes at your child’s school.

Appreciate the person who used Facebook to return your lost credit card and the one who delivered that missing wallet back to your teen.

Be thankful for the finders of lost people and animals.

Smile in admiration for those who support families facing loss by organizing regular meals and giving them a fresh shoulder to lean on.

Remember the person who gently diffused an escalating situation, refused to gossip, or chose to step closer to the odd person out.

Thank the stranger who passed you toilet paper under the door or stopped to offer directions as you stood dazed and confused on a street corner.

Recognize the strength it takes to be a gracious loser and the even greater challenge it takes to be a gracious winner.

Commiserate with the mom sobbing with relief as she reunites with her lost child at Target. Be sure to tell her it has happened to you.

Adore the friends who lie straight to your face about something you are self-conscious about and high five the men who let women hold doors for them without an overly awkward struggle.

Praise the child who patiently withstands the attention of younger relatives and then politely indulges their elders even if they are listening to the same story as last time.

High five the gas station owner who calmly deals with the aftermath of your gas hose drive-off and celebrate the school secretary who deals with lice discreetly… every time. And of course, double hug the friend who loves you even though you are always ten minutes late.

Wanna say Hiya to Heija? Follow her on Twitter (@ Heija) Friend her on Facebook or relax, sit back, and silently judge her life in the flickering glow of your computer screen at her blog The Worst Mother in the World (www.Heija.com).

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 9

In Good Company

Board member Beth Montag-Schmaltz and husband Chris Schmaltz

Board member Kevin Griffin and wife Farrah

Making a difference for

Big Brothers, Big Sisters

Board member Terry Cook and wife Stephanie

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound got a roomful of support – and money – on Oct. 20 as its 47th annual BIG Event auction raised $575,000 for the organization.

Rose Dennis

to make a difference to a child. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound (www.bbbsps.org.) provides children facing adversity with on-going one-to-one relationships that can impact their lives and promote their future success.

A chance to win a trips to the Iditarod and Paris, plus autographed guitars from Dave Matthews and Pearl Jam, helped spur the bidding.

Rose Dennis writes about events in Bellevue and the Greater Seattle area. She lives in Bellevue.

The room was full of patrons who wanted

Alternative to CPAP Therapy often report having difficulty with getting comfortable and keeping the mask on during the night.

Others may have trouble keeping a seal around the mask and must use head straps to keep their mouth closed while asleep,” said Doneskey.

According to Doneskey, patients also express lifestyle concerns such as the inconvenience of taking CPAP along when they travel or go on vacation.

At The Sleep Apnea & Facial Pain Center, Doneskey reports high levels of patient satisfaction, compliance and success with a new oral appliance called “The SilentPartner™, a jaw-friendly FDA approved oral airway dilator that Doneskey himself helped develop. According to Doneskey, The SilentPartner is a comfortable, fully adjustable mouth appliance that allows the jaw to be safely placed in the optimum position to keep the airway open.

In addition to keeping the airway open, The SilentPartner eliminates snoring in most patients while

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

protecting the teeth of patients who clench during their sleep. This appliance is so well received that according to Doneskey, more than 90 percent of his patients over the last 5 years are able to use The Silent-Partner on a full time basis. ~ Provided by Dr. Jeff Doneskey of The Sleep Apnea & Facial Pain Center. Online at www.doneskey.com

The SilentPartner™

is used to effectively treat: • Snoring • Obstructive Sleep Apnea • Patients who are unable to use CPAP • TMJ clicking and locking • Classic TMJ disorders

eep...without C l S

PAP or Snoring

ep... e l S

without CPAP or Snoring

If you’re having trouble with CPAP and are looking for a comfortable, effective alternative, it’s time you come to The Sleep Apnea and Facial Pain Center. We’re the regions leading treatment center for the management of obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and TMJ disorders through oral appliance therapy.

Limited time offer for a

FREE Consultation and Exam

Jeffrey W. Doneskey, DMD

Call 425.646.6409 or visit our website @ www.doneskey.com

CERTIFIED IN ORAL MEDICINE

FDA approved treatment recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

1200 116th Ave NE, Ste C, Bellevue, WA 98004 | 425.646.6409 | www.doneskey.com

703822

Today approximately 18 million, or 1 in 15 Americans experience Sleep Apnea, a sleep disorder involving the airway that disrupts a person’s sleep often leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, overall poor health, and in some cases, even death.

According to Dr. Jeffery Doneskey, Oral Medicine Specialist and founder of The Sleep Apnea & Facial Pain Center in Bellevue, therapy for the disorder can be difficult.

“The most common treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) involves the use of a medical breathing device called a CPAP, “ said Doneskey. CPAP, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure, delivers air through a mask worn over the nose during sleep in order to help maintain an open airway.

While CPAP can provide an effective solution, Doneskey reports that there are significant reasons why some people are unwilling or unable to use CPAP. “For example, restless sleepers

Entertainment

10 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Vegas thrills, close to home Inside the big name concerts and grown-up fun at Snoqualmie Casino

BY SETH TRUSCOTT The strains of “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” can still get Lisa Rasmussen moving.

As a 7-year-old, Rasmussen’s first record was Joan Jett and The Blackhearts’ 1981 classic. To this day, the record continues to relate for the North Bend mom, now in her late 30s.

“My kids listen to it now,” she said.

Love of rock ‘n’ roll saw Rasmussen among the crowd when Jett and The Blackhearts performed at Snoqualmie Casino’s outdoor concert venue last summer.

Rasmussen joined fans from several generations, dancing in the crowd at the casino’s Mountain View Plaza. She learned that Jett, at age 54, can still rock. She still looks cool in leather pants.

Live shows, big names

Since opening in November of 2008, Snoqualmie Casino, owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, has positioned itself as the Eastside’s main entertainment venue, drawing visitors from the Seattle metro area with a diverse mix of entertainment under a 170,000-square-foot roof.

To be sure, this place is big. Snoqualmie Casino has five different restaurants, serving fare from fine dining to sushi to sandwiches. It boasts several upscale lounges and bars, including a swanky cigar bar, nearly 2,000 slot machines and table games, more than a thousand employees and parking for 2,000 cars. It overlooks the cities of Snoqualmie and North Bend from its hillside location, a short distance from Interstate 90’s exit 27.

With two performance venues—the 2,300-seat outdoor Mountain View Plaza and the more intimate Snoqualmie Ballroom—the casino hosts a fast-changing round of special events, from live comedy to mixed martial arts. But the biggest names are the sell-out concert acts: Names like The Jacksons, Peter Frampton, Willie Nelson, ZZ Top, Joan Jett, Roger Hodgson of Supertramp and Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20.

Mike Moloney, president of Las Vegas-based Mike Moloney Entertainment, is the man behind the big-name acts at Snoqualmie Casino. He arranges for the likes of Frampton, Willie and Jessica Simpson to play here.

Moloney seeks acts with appeal for everyone from grandparents to the young and hip.

“We look at every demographic, and want to keep them all happy,” he says.

At a casino, fans get to see big-name artists in a much more intimate setting than a huge theater or vast arena.

“You see Yes, Roger Hodgson of Supertramp, Don Rickles, Jay Leno, and you don’t have to go to Las Vegas” to do it, Moloney says.

He also makes sure to book up-and-coming artists, such as country artists Gloriana, Mario Cantone of “The View,” and tribute shows such as BeatleMania.

“We also bring in the male dance revue Thunder from Down Under... which are probably some of our craziest audiences!” Moloney says.

Bringing in rising talent along with familiar stars is important, because casinos want to reach beyond the Baby Boomers.

“It shows we are an entertainment destination,” Moloney says.

This is show business, but the stars don’t necessarily tour for the money. For many, there is a love of being in front of an audience. And, according to Moloney, some of these once-hard-partying rock stars can be surprisingly laid back, regular folks.

“When we had ZZ Top come through, the old days of partying were long gone,” Moloney said. “All they really wanted at the end of their show was chicken fajitas.”

All five senses

Some folks savor fine wines or fancy food. For Fuzzy Fletcher, there’s nothing bet-

ZZ Top perform at Snoqualmie Casino ter than the aroma of a good cigar.

Fletcher, former Snoqualmie mayor and today the director of public safety for the Snoqualmie Tribe, unwinds weekly at LIT, Snoqualmie Casino’s cigar lounge.

It’s true, says Fletcher, that some people say cigars smell terrible. To each their own Fletcher says that for him, it’s not the smell of the tobacco that he enjoys, so much as the taste.

“A little leathery, and a little cedar-like… and almost, in some instances, a little bit of espresso.”

That’s how he describes his favorite cigars, made by Don Pepin, a Miami-based roller of Nicaraguan tobacco.

Fletcher was one of LIT’s first customers, and he still enjoys coming here in spare moments, unwinding in a soft armchair, watching television, and savoring the taste of an imported cigar, which can last for several hours. Tobacconists here are knowledgeable, he says, and ready to help cigar aficionados make a choice about what to enjoy.

For Fletcher, this is one of the last places left where he can light up a cigar, indoors. The LIT experience underlines how sight, smell, sound and taste overlap here.

The trick to really enjoying the casino, says Lars Sorensen, its director of marketing, is knowing that everything is under one roof.

Take advantage of the amenities, he says — “We’re 30 miles from downtown,” two lefts off Interstate 90. You don’t have to pay for parking. The beer’s not $10 a pull.

You have options for everything from a hot dog to fine dining. And you know what?

You might walk out of here with a jackpot.”

Casinos don’t publicly reveal how much money goes out annually in gaming wins.

However, the biggest jackpots, a little over $1 million, have been won twice over Snoqualmie Casino’s first four years.

But it’s not all about the winnings. People really come here to be entertained, says Snoqualmie Casino CEO Jon Jenkins.

There’s a thrill, an escape from the humdrum. Visitors form friendships and become regulars.

“It becomes their social getaway,” Jenkins says.

“It’s not just one thing when you come here,” says Sorensen. “This is a place where, if you want to come in jeans and a T-shirt, you’re welcome. You can walk in, in a tuxedo, with your wife and relive prom night. No one’s going to think anything of it. They’re going to pat you on the back when they see you.”

THE scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 11

Cover Story

12 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

No Time Like the Present!

BY HEIJA NUNN

It’s that time of the year again, a time to brightly tolerate and dish out chirpy greetings, warm hugs and hot mugs, little somethings and big surprises. ‘Tis the season for repeating scenes; Sparkles and cranberries followed by cranky elves with papercuts stealing late night catnaps on the couch. Yes Virginia, the season of giving is filled with clichés and white elephants, but don’t be a Scrooge!

Make like the Grinch and adopt these clichés as tradition!

There is no time like the present to start thinking about holiday shopping. Christmas will be here in two shakes of a reindeer’s tail so strike while the hot toys are still in stock! Lucky for you, I’ve already made my list and checked it twice, and yes your name is at the very top. I wrote this gift guide just for you, to help you make holiday wishes come true. So please enjoy my cliché filled guide to cliché free holiday gift giving.

You’re welcome.

All That Glitters Isn’t Gold

Except for Zombies, everybody loves a shiny object. Zombies fear the glint of serrated steel. Vigilant friends will feel prepared with the “Walking Dead” endorsed Gerber Machete. While others will prefer the glow of pretty lights, liquid gold or glitter. Actual glitter.

■ Gerber Gator Machete ($29.95, Excalibur Cutlery, Bellevue Square)* ■ Viz Coloriscape Glass Solar Spirals ($39.99, Gray Barn Nursery, Redmond) ■ Djeco Glitter Art Kit ($22.99 Bellevue Art & Frame and The Toy Place) ■ Reed’s Ginger Beer (Non-Alcoholic) 4-pack ($4.99, Total Wine and More, Bellevue) ■ Berry’s Islay Reserve Scotch Whiskey ($79.99, Total Wine and More, Bellevue)

Hold Your Nose and Pay!

The key to surviving holiday gift-giving for kids is to balance the icky things they ask for with some picky things you want them to have. Act fast, get those giant hunks of magical plastic in the bag, and then find something wholesome, classic, active or eco-friendly to help keep the stench of Justin Bieber perfume and bloody virtual war games from staining your conscience.

■ Icky: Justin Bieber ‘Girlfriend’ Perfume Collection (From $20, Macy’s Redmond Town Center)* ■ Picky: The Complete Little House Nine-Book Set By Laura Ingalls Wilder ($37.47, Amazon.com) ■ Icky: Call of Duty Black Ops 2 by Activision ($59.99, GameStop) ■ Picky: Nerf N-Strike Elite Hail-Fire ($34.99, Target) ■ Icky: Fisher-Price Little People Disney Princess Songs Palace or Fisher-Price Jake and The Neverland Pirates - Musical Pirate Ship Bucky ($39.99, Toys R Us) ■ Picky: Jellycat Plush Animals ($14-$26, Whitehorse Toys, Gilman Village, Issaquah) or Uncle Goose International Wooden Blocks ($39.99, CF Kids, Crossroads Mall.)

* From left: Gerber Gator Machete, Justin Bieber ‘Girlfriend’ Perfume Collection

* From left: Fair Trade Ornament Sets, Husky Loyal DVD, PJ Salvage Throw Blanket.

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

I ruin Jello, but I can fake my way through entertaining with good serving pieces and shortcuts; I am actually obsessed with my lovely Laguiole bread knife ($32).

Pasta & Co. Truffle Cookie Dough is a delicious bargain arranged on pretty vintage plates and platters to give to the neighbors. (P.S. Santa, Wouldn’t that espresso maker look fab in my kitchen?)

■ Signature Mints 8oz. Bag ($9.99, Common Folk Co., Crossroads Mall) ■ Laguiole Boxed Serving Pieces ($11.50-$88.50, Terra Bella, Old Main Bellevue) ■ Nespresso Citiz Espresso Maker with Aeroccino Frother ($299, Sur La Table, Kirkland-The Bravern) ■ Truffle Cookie Dough ($8.50, Pasta & Co., Bellevue) ■ Vintage plates and Platters (Goodwill, Bellevue)

What Comes Around Goes Around

Give a gift with your purchase of cause merchandise. There’s nothing gimmicky about quality merchandise that can also help restore eyesight, feed the hungry and keep kids healthy. It’s a GOOD thing!

■ jcoco Chocolate ($6.99, PCC Natural Market, Redmond ) ■ Skyline Socks ($11.99, Medina Market, Medina) ■ TOMS Sunglasses ($98-$169, Nordstrom, Bellevue Square) ■ Fair Trade Ornament Sets ($24.95-$29.95, Crate & Barrel, Bellevue Square)* ■ Velveteen Rabbit or Night Before Christmas Picture Book and Plush Toy ($5 each, Kohl’s, Redmond)

Get in the Game!

Familiarity can easily breed contempt, so prevent the fallout of too much “quality time” by keeping the conversation and competitive spirit focused on the game table.

If you haven’t seen an all ages HexBugs Warriors battle you’re just not livin’ right.

■ Wits and Wagers ($29.99, Uncle’s Games, Crossroads Mall-Redmond Town Center.)

■ Husky Loyal DVD ($19.99 University Bookstore, Bellevue)* ■ Hexbug Warriors ($7.99-$29.99, Target) ■ Cards Against Humanity ($25, Amazon.com) ■ Hover Soccer ($19.99, Bellevue Art and Frame and the Toy Place)

Over The Top

A gift that feels luxurious doesn’t have to be expensive. To an artist a stack of canvasses is a delight, to a kid twenty Hot Wheels at one time is crazy cool. Spoil someone you love with an exquisitely wrapped gift from their favorite brand. Note: the car might need more than one stick on bow.

■ Yard of Bubblegum ($9.99, Cost Plus, Bellevue-Redmond) ■ PJ Salvage Throw Blanket ($42, Hepburn, Kirkland)* ■ Tory Burch Collection (From $45, Tory Burch, The Bravern) ■ Fiat Pop ($15,500 Rairdon Fiat of Kirkland) ■ Porsche Turbo S 911 Convertible ($185,000 Barrier Motors, Bellevue)

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 13

Cover Story Young @ Heart

It’s hard to act surprised or grateful for the usual gifts if all you can think about is where to store it or how long you have to wait before you can give it back or pass it on. Offer your elders something edible, returnable, and desirable, in case you get it back down the line. Dig up and frame a flattering vintage photo, pot a Lemon Cypress in a cool antique or give them the gift that keeps on giving; something new to do with the grandkids.

■ KidsQuest Children’s Museum Membership ($88, Factoria Mall, Bellevue) ■ Antiques and collectibles (Haystack Antiques, Bellevue) ■ Lemon Cypress Tree ($7.97-$29.97, Home Depot, Issaquah) ■ Bradford Photo Frame ($14.99-19.99, Aaron Bros, Bellevue-Issaquah-Redmond) ■ Five Guys Restaurant Gift Card (Bellevue-Renton- Issaquah), Kanishka Indian Restaurant Gift Certificate (Redmond)

* From left: Microsoft Surface, “The Heist” CD, “Lessons From Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I learned While Living In Paris.”

We Have The Technology

It’s not a surprise that electronics are on your shopping list. Touchscreens don’t mix well with northwest mists so a full function waterproof cover could become your teen’s really real BFF. While they’re still grateful for their new toys, sneak a Sonicare AirFloss into their bathroom—one handed flossing will make it feel like Christmas all over again.

■ Apple Nano, Seventh Generation ($149.99, Best Buy) ■ Microsoft Surface (From $499, Microsoft Store, Bellevue Square)* ■ Seal Line e-Series Cases ($19.99-$24.99, Container Store, Bellevue Square) ■ Philips Sonicare AirFloss Set of 2 ($119, Costco Warehouse, Kirkland-Issaquah)

All Over The Map

Get a taste of the exotic and travel a new path without the awkward pat-down. I love-love SAFARI, a Photicular book, it’s a perfect gift for families or curious little minds. Wrapping the Paris style book with Chanel cosmetics is a sure thing, and Bartell’s Drugstore is a clever one-stop shop for something Northwest-y to go with

g n i r e t a C y a d i l Ho Reserve Our Party Room Room!

YES WE DO...

RTIES, BIRTHDAYS, PA AY D LI O H TE RA CORPO UR PARTY NEEDS! AND MORE TO FIT YO

tickets to new Seattle attractions; The Great Wheel or the Chihuly Garden and Glass.

■ SAFARI, A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen, Carol Kaufmann ($24.95, Island Books, Mercer Island) ■ Northwest Gifts ($2.99-$29.99, Bartell’s Drugs) Great Wheel Admission ($8.50$13) Chihuly Garden and Glass Admission ($12-$19) ■ Macklemore & Ryan Lewis CD, “The Heist” ($10.00, Silver Platters, Crossroads Mall)* ■ “Lessons From Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I learned While Living In Paris,”($23, Barnes and Noble, Bellevue)* ■ Chanel Cosmetics (From $26 Neiman Marcus, The Bravern)

That’s A Wrap

Now that your shopping is all wrapped up, it’s time to do the same for your gifts.

Forget the mismatched box or crumpled gift bag. Head over to PS Store in Redmond where they will kit you out with lovely calligraphy tags, cello bags, simple giftwrap, tissue and easy to tie tulle ribbon that will make you look like a gift-wrapping genius in the same time it takes to get a bad wrap.

■ Gift Wrap Supplies (.25 - $20 Packaging Specialties, Redmond)

Discount Tile Outlet is your total tile solution, representing, the finest factories throughout the world.

(Redmond location)

COME IN AND ENJOY OUR SPECIALS WITH HOMEMADE TAMALES FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER. Weekend Brunch (11am-3pm) • Kids Eat for $2.99 Monday - Margarita Mondays ($5.50 Margaritas) Tuesday - Tequila Tuesdays (50% OFF All Premium Tequilas) Wednesday - Martini Wednesdays ($5.50 Stoli Martini Drinks)

(All Day Sundays Only)

HURRY Limited Time Offer!

Tile • Marble • Stone Wood • Factory Direct

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED Handcrafted, Local Ingredients • NO Trans Fat or Lard Sustainable Seafood • Free Range Meats

42 5. 36 9. 89 00

425-654-4144

er

k Shopping Cent

Bear Cree Early and Late Happy Hour!

42 5. 88 1. 82 52

www.AgaveRest.com

SCN-704899

nds

Issaquah Highla

20% OFF

Bring in this ad. Not valid with any other offers.

Exclude all woods. Expires 12/31/12.

Visit our Newly Remodeled Showroom!

1405 132nd Ave. SE Bellevue, WA 98005

DiscountTileOutlet.com Best Prices! Best Service!

THE scene

14 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Meet the Team Geoff Graeff | Shannon Peterson M. Brandon Ehrlich | Nicole Barrat Terri Gatts Dayton In the mortgage business for over 90 years, HomeStreet provides its customers with a level of stability and continuity rare in today’s banking world. We’ve always stayed focused on what we believe is most important: building long-term relationships with our customers and providing ongoing support to our communities. HomeStreet has consistently been recognized by the federal government as “Outstanding” under the Community Reinvestment Act.

1700 Westlake Ave North, Suite #600 | Seattle, WA 98109 Apply Online at www.BrandoneLoans.com

Our customers soon discover that we take the time to get to know them and their lending needs—and we’ll go the extra mile for them. We offer experience, flexibility and a willingness to be innovative.

Our specialties include: •New Construction Financing •Jumbo Loans – available with as little as 10% down •Portfolio financing

Call today to learn how I can help you with your home financing needs.

M. Brandon Ehrlich 206 251 5019 | Terri Gatts Dayton 206 372 8537 Brandon.Ehrlich@HomeStreet.com NMLS# 583001

Terri.Dayton@HomeStreet.com NMLS# 582990 All loans subject to approval. ©2012 HomeStreet, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Inc.

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 15

Laughs

Laughing in downtown with Uptown Kevin Brown

BY KEEGAN PROSSER Uptown Kevin ‘Dot Com’ Brown is probably best known for his role as the large but lovable side kick to Tracy Morgan’s “Tracy Jordan” on NBC’s “30 Rock.” But what you might not know is that Brown is also one of the people who helped to jumpstart the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy.

An American comedian, film and television actor, Bronx-born Brown got his start in the entertainment industry booking hip hop shows around New York. When the crowds got too big and the venues got more difficult to work with, he decided to switch to comedy - and open his own club.

“I realized that when people are laughing, they are too busy to fight,” Brown has said.

From 1992-1995, Brown and his brother Dre created and produced “The Uptown Comedy Club” TV show that broadcasted on FOX 5 network. Located in the heart of Harlem at 125th St, the show received National success in the 90’s for introducing the masses to acts including JB Smoove (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”), Flex Alexander of (“One on One”), Chris Tucker (“Rush Hour”) - and Tracy Morgan.

Brown studied acting at the T. Schreiber Studio in New York City and has appeared in several movies: Sarah Jessica Parker’s blockbusters “Did You Hear About The Morgans?” and, “Sex in the City Part 2,” “The Departed” with Leo DiCaprio, “Lucky Number Slevin,” “50 Cents Get Rich Or Die Trying,” and “Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen,” among others.

On stage, Brown appeared as the lead in Marq Overton’s one-man play “Die Laughing” (2008) at the Diversity Players of Harlem and as an actor and executive producer of the stage play “Box,” an offbroadway production about four Haitian stowaways to America.

While Brown’s character on “30 Rock” goes by “Dot Com,” the actor had already been using the moniker prior to being cast. In fact, Brown had adopted the tag several years before the audition as a way to dif-

More Laughs

Kevin “Dot Com” Brown ferentiate himself from others with the same name.

At the “30 Rock” audition, upon entering the room, Tracy Morgan recognized his old friend, Kevin Brown, whom he had not seen since the early 90’s on the comedy circuit. Tracy introduced Brown to Tina Fey as “Dot Com” - and the name stuck.

In addition to acting, Brown is an accomplished comedian, having started telling jokes when he realized there was more money to be made on the performance side of the business.

As a stand-up comedian, Brown has appeared on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” MTV’s “Human Giant and NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” and BET’s “Comic View.” Brown also opened for Morgan at Caroline’s Comedy Club in Times Square in May 2010 - and served as a headliner at Caroline’s later that year.

When not impersonating Morgan or Terry Crews (Old Spice guy) on stage, Brown likes to practice martial arts (he’s a Certified Black Belt) and Bikram (Hot) Yoga.

He’s also gearing up for campaign life: Dot Com For President, 2016.

Kevin “Dot Com” Brown performs at Parlor Live Comedy Club Dec. 13-15. $15-30. www.parlorlive.com.

Laugh’s Comedy Club

Parlor Live

12-7/8: Roy Woods Jr.

12-7: Joe Rogan

12/14-15: Maria Bamford

12-6/8: Kivi Rogersr

12/20-22: Andrew Sleighter

Home

16 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Home for the holidays

BY KEEGAN PROSSER

SNOWMEN by Nancy Callan On view through February 2013 Noir Snowman, 2008 Blown glass, 33 x 17 x 17 inches Courtesy of the artist, photo by Russell Johnson

museumofglass.org

Photo by Ken Emly

VISITING ARTIST NANCY CALLAN Making Snowmen in the Hot Shop December 19 - 23, 2012

ART ON FIRE museumofglass.org

As the holiday season comes upon us, it’s time to get the house ready for the holidays.

For Clyde Hill resident Lisa Seigle, decorating for the holidays is more than just a family tradition, it’s become a bit of an obsession.

“I go shopping the day after Christmas and find all the decorations I’ve been eyeing on clearance,” Seigle says.

Her usual haunts include William and Sonoma, Pottery Barn and Cost Plus.

Seigle says she likes to keep her decorations pretty traditional. This means incorporating many shades of red and green, alongside Christmas china and family heirlooms.

“It probably has to do with the way I was raised,” Seigle says of her traditional style.

Other features include ornaments from her childhood and a collection of 30-plus Nutcrackers she displays on the mantle.

Seigle says she and her family generally start decorating for Christmas the weekend after Thanksgiving, when they bring home their Christmas tree.

In regard to the tree, Seigle says they incorporate a cornocopia of things - ornaments that showcase her 13-year-old son and 9-year old daughter’s hobbies, soccer and ballet, as well as sentimental trinkets they’ve collected each year.

Decorating the house generally includes making hot cocoa, playing

Christmas music on and working together as a family - something Seigle has come to cherish.

David Bromstad, of HGTV’s “Design Star,” “Color Splash” and “The White Room Challenge” television shows, says homeowners looking for design inspiration for the holidays should focus on enhancing windows and doors.

“A home’s windows and doors are a natural backdrop for encouraging holiday design elements,” says Bromstad.

“Especially during the evening, you get a warm glow coming from a home’s interior that reaches out as an invitation to guests. “ Bromstad also suggests draping live garland around window and door frames (indoors and out), adding ornaments and bells to simple greenery or creating a winter wonderland by hanging paper snowflakes from the ceiling.

Similar to the Seigle family, Monica Whaley and her family are huge fans of decorating their home for the holidays. The Whaley’s also journey a to the tree farm each year - and decorate their home in the days following Thanksgiving.

Because her job demands she travel a lot, Whaley says her holiday collection features decorations from around the world, including pieces from Russia, Peru and Asia.

She says her family also collects “Christmas in the City” houses, which have become the focus of their holiday display.

Another important aspect of their

decorating tradition is displaying 16 years worth of Santa pictures and sprinkling the interior of their home with her husband’s elaborate light displays. Whaley also displays a variety of nativity scenes throughout the house.

Whaley says she enjoys decorating for every major holiday, but that Christmas is definitely the most important. Throughout the years she has collected more than 10 boxes of Christmas decorations, and has hopes to one day open her own Christmas shop.

The center piece of their decorations is their Christmas tree, which continues to grow each year.

“My daughter likes to pick out the tree - and because are new house has high ceilings, it’s gotten quite big,” Whaley says.

She says they’ll likely scale back a bit this year, as they found it too difficult to decorate the top.

And while the decorations generally go in the same locations every year, Whaley enjoys the challenge of trying to mix it up.

Whaley says her favorite part about decorating for the holidays is getting to make the house look the way she wants it to look - if just for a few weeks.

“We’re constantly remodeling,” Whaley says. “This is my opportunity to hide the things that remain unfinished.”

Seigle’s goal is a bit more straightforward: “It makes the house look so cheerful,” she says.

THE scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 17

Research Volunteers Wanted . . .

Do you currently use Clarisonic products?

Would you like to use Clarisonic products?

We are looking for volunteers to participate in Clinical Studies evaluating Clarisonic products.

If you are interested please contact us: Phone: 425-285-1795 Email: studies@clarisonic.com

687667

Web: www.clarisonic.com

If you qualify, you will be compensated for your participation in completed studies.

Nightlife

18 | TheEastsideScene.com | December 2012

Nightlife in December Bake’s Place

Eastside Jazz Club

155 108th Avenue NE Bellevue. 425-454-2776

Inside Marriott Courtyard Hotel, 11010 NE 8th Street Bellevue, 425-828-9104

12-1: DoctorfunK 12-16: Whitney Jones 12-30: Jim Kerl’s Swing Session Big Band presents “Sinatra at the Sands” 12-31: A Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Celebration with Ventura Highway Revisited More: www.bakesplace.org

12-11: Janette West Quartet More: www.eastsidejazzclub.com

Sip Restaurant

1084 NE Park Drive, Issaquah, 425-369-1181

12-13: Chris Morton More: www.siprestaurant.com Sliders Cafe

4721 Tolt Ave., Carnation, 425-333-577

12-22: John Weiss & Randall Walker More: www.slidersandcowgirls.com Snoqualmie Casino

37500 SE North Bend Way, Snoqualmie, 425-888-1234

Finaghty’s Irish Pub

12-20: Jose Feliciano 12-27: Bret Michaels More: www.snocasino.com

7726 Center Blvd. SE #110, Snoqualmie, 425-888-8833

12-1: Rock Stars Show featuring Big Star Studios!

Benaroya Hall

Triple Door

12-15: The Hipsters More: www.finaghtys.com

200 University St., Seattle, 206-215-4800

12-17: Don Tiki’s Hot Lava Holiday Show 12-19: The Irish Tenors Holiday Concert 12-21/23: The Coats – Annual Holiday Show & Seattle Men’s Chorus – Baby’s It’s Cold Outside More: www.seattlesymphony.org/benaroya

216 Union St., Seattle, 206-838-4333

12-4/5: Sweet Honey In The Rock – Celebrating The Holydays More: www.tripledoor.com

Kirkland Performance Center 350 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland, 425-893-9900

12-14/16: Old-Time Holiday Show More: www.kpcenter.org

Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley

Sixth Avenue and Lenora Street, Seattle, 206-441-9729

Meydenbauer Center

12-1/4: Roy Hargrove Quintet 12-28/31: Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band More: www.jazzalley.com

11100 NE Sixth St., Bellevue, 425-637-1020

Village Theatre

Bret Michaels

303 Front St. N., Issaquah, 425-392-2202

“Fiddler on the Roof ” is showing all month.

More: www.villagetheatre.org

Vino Bella

99 Front St. North, Issaquah, 425-391-1424

12-8: Babes in Toyland More: www.meydenbauer.com

12-14: The British Beats More: www.vinobella.com

MONDAY NIGHT MEATBALLS

•

Are you looking for a confidence building opportunity for your 15–18 year old daughter?

The Modern Debutante Programme instills grace, poise, and confidence, and sets the course for a successful future.

For more information visit: www.moderndebutante.net Facebook.com/moderndebutante

DINNER SPECIAL All Meatball Pasta dishes 50% off on Monday evenings!

702799

(Meatball special good on Monday only)

LUNCH SPECIALS Three-course Lunch Special at Pizzeria Guido • Caesar Salad or Cup of Soup $ • Any Small Pizza • Spumoni Ice Cream

1550

Three-course Lunch Special at Firenze • House Salad • One of three Pasta Specials 50 (Bolognese, Pesto, Tortellini) $ • Tiramisu and Coffee

19

PIZZERIA • SPAGHETTERIA

ITALIAN DINING AT ITS BEST

425-614-0007

425-957-1077

425-615-3474

Graysmarsh Berry Farm Pamper your loved ones with a gift pack of local gourmet preserves made with our own berries picked at the peak of ripeness to assure quality & flavor.

703620

5 minutes from Microsoft

Across From The Cinema At Crossroads Mall

15600 NE 8th | Bellevue

2B702423

1/2 Price Wine List every Sunday & Monday Order today www.graysmarsh.com • 360.683.0624 in Sunny Sequim, Washington on the Olympic Peninsula

THE scene

December 2012 | TheEastsideScene.com | 19

Eastside Real Estate

I nventory is at its lowest level since 2006 and the demand is high.

Don’t miss your opportunity. If you’ve been thinking of selling, now’s the time !

Featured Listings

Medina View Estate : $2,775,000 4 BR : 4.25 Bath : Den : Bonus 4,740 SF Home : 19,166 SF lot

West Bellevue Craftsman : $1,898,000 4 BR : 3.5 Bath : Den : Bonus/Media 4,100 SF Home : 9,361 SF lot

West of Market Modern : $925,000 2 BR : 2.5 Bath : Den : Great Room 2,260 SF Home : 13,776 SF lot

Recent Sales

PEnDInG

Meydenbauer : $1,560,000

Bridle Trails : $945,000

Medina : $898,000

Marymoor Hill : $819,000

Bridle Trails : $790,000

Bridle Trails : $750,000

www.bethbillington .com

Beth Billington

Coldwell Banker Bain Preveiws Properties Specialist Top 1%, CRS, GRI 425.450.5208 beth@bethbillington.com

Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

Silhouette Window Shadings and Luminette Privacy Sheers ®

®

SAVE $100*

WHEN YOU BUY:

Comfort and Joy, Now at a Savings.

Plus $25 off each additional unit .....................................................................

Save September 15 — December 15 on select Hunter Douglas window fashions.* What a wonderful way to fill your home with the beauty and warmth of the season.

2 Silhouette® Window Shadings or

4 Duette® Architella® Honeycomb Shades

2 Duette® Duolite™ Honeycomb Shades, 2 Pirouette® Window Shadings, 2 Vignette® Modern Roman Shades Plus $50 off each additional unit .....................................................................

1 Luminette® Privacy Sheers or Modern Draperies or 1 Skyline® Gliding Window Panels

custom drapery and window blind specialists

Plus $100 off each additional unit

14102 NE 21st Street, Bellevue, WA 98007 • 425-644-7181 • 1-800-642-5176 • www.blindalley.com Showroom hours: 9:30 to 5:00 Monday – Saturday.

In-Home Decorator appointments available daytimes Monday through Saturday and evenings Monday through Thursday.

Serving the Eastside and Seattle since 1984.

* Manufacturer’s rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/12 – 12/15/12. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above.

If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. All rebates will be issued in U.S. dollars, in the form of an American Express® Prepaid Reward Card. This rebate offer may not be combined with any other Hunter Douglas offer or promotion. © 2012 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

677814

theblindalley.hdwfg.com