This weekend marks one of Seattle’s most anticipated event, Bumbershoot! Whether it’s art, music, theater, comedy, spoken word, film or dance, Bumbershoot has it all. What began as the Seattle Art Festival in 1971 has grown to become one of the largest urban art and music festivals in the world. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, this event takes place in the 74 acre Seattle Center, the epicenter of downtown Seattle. Bumbershoot has been host to famous artists of all genres. In addition to the entertainment, you’ll find the usual offering of excellent cuisines from around the world. Pack up the family for a fun filled day!

Bumbershoot
When: August 30-Sept. 1st
Where: Seattle Center
$$$: Adults $40, Children 5 and under Free, Children 6-10 and Seniors, Patrons with disabilities $15

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If I was in Seattle this weekend, though, I’d be at PAX. I am, after all, a geek girl and a huge fan of PAX creators, those awesome Penny Arcade dudes, Tycho and Gabe. Someday I will make it to Seattle during PAX. For those of you a bit less geeky than me, PAX is a 3-day gaming fest. Some have described it as the Burning Man of the gaming world. Even better, it’s quite affordable if you happen to be lucky enough to live in or around Seattle.

PAX 08
When: Friday, August 29 2008, 2:00pm - Saturday, August 30 2008, 1:00am
Where: Washington State Convention & Trade Center, 800 Convention Pl
$$$: Day pass $30, 3 day pass $50
Event Schedule
Exhibit Hall Map
Hotels

If you’re a geek and live in Seattle and you fail to attend this event, your geek card will be revoke. Nuff said!

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If you’d rather spend the day hanging out on the Sound, then here is your event:

Harbor Days
When: August 29 - August 31, 2008
Hours: Fri. 8/31 5:00 pm - 8:00 Sat 9/1, Sun 9/2. 10.00 am - 7:00 pm
Where: Percival Landing, Olympia, Wa
$$$: Free admission and parking

Harbor Days is an annual festival where tugboats return to the southernmost tip of Puget Sound for three days of entertainment, food, art, history, and a last farewell to the summer. Vintage, working and retired tugboats are moored at Olympia’s Percival Landing. Many of them are open for tour on Saturday of the festival. Be on hand at noon Sunday as the tugs leave shore to participate in the Annual Harbor Days Tugboat Races, out in the deep channel of the bay. Extra attractions include a children’s area, model tugboats, and the Lady Washington (star of the Pirates of the Caribbean) & her crew. Hope you can join us and experience the South Sound’s classiest event…with a little something for everyone in the family!

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6th Annual Car Show
When: Sunday, Aug 31 12:00p to 4:00p
Where: Country Village, Bothell, WA
$$$: Free Admission, $15 to enter a car

Enter a car or just go to admire the entries.

If your car tastes run more to the higher end then you might like this one instead:

Italian Concours d’ Elegance
When: August 31, 2008
Hours: Registration 8am Show Hours 11-4:30
Where: Pier 62/63, Seattle
$$$: Admission $5, Motorcycle Entry $20, Automobile Entry $35

The Italian Concours d’ Elegance is a car and motorcycle exposition of Italian design and engineering in the automotive world. There will be examples from all of the major Italian Manufacturers including: Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Aprila, Ducati, Vespa and Lancia.

Have a great weekend!

Brick over at Nutrition Frenzy just published a great article on 4 Simple Ways to Superpower Your Salads.

Firstly, that got me to thinking about this wonderful Pear & Fennel Slaw my partner started making recently that is just out of this world. I took at look at Brick’s criteria and found that it meets them all quite nicely.

Secondly, it got me thinking about the expression, “Salad Days”, so of course I had to look up that expression. That, my friends, is the danger of the internet. You start down one path and the next thing you know, your entire day has disappeared. On the other hand, you usually end up a little more knowledgeable than you started out. At least that’s my excuse, and I’m sticking to it!

Salad Days, for those of you who are curious, refers to a youthful time in your life, often colored by inexperience, enthusiasm, idealism, innocence, or indiscretion. Ohhh, la la! The phrase was coined by none other than the greatest writer of the English language, William Shakespeare in the tragedy, Antony and Cleopatra in 1606. Cleopatra gives a speech at the end of Act One in which she expresses regret over her youthful indiscretions with Julius Caesar:

“…My salad days, / When I was green in judgment, cold in blood…”

According to Wikipedia, “The metaphor comes from Cleopatra’s use of the word ‘green’—meaning someone youthful, inexperienced, or immature. The probable allusion is to certain leafy plants (such as dandelions) that are edible when young and tender.”

Getting back to the Pear & Fennel Slaw. A friend had given me a sack full of pears from his garden. My partner knew we had fennel in the vegetable drawer so he cleverly looked up recipes that combined these two ingredients. The recipe he found turned out awesome and worked well with firm, but ripe, pears. It was spicy, tangy and just downright yummy. Give it a try:

Pear & Fennel Slaw

~Makes 2 cups

Dressing:
1/4cup white wine vinegar
1/4cup granulated sugar
1/4teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon celery seed
1/2teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4teaspoon Kosher Salt
Tiny pinch cayenne pepper

Slaw:

1 medium fennel bulb, julienned
3 small just-ripe pears, slightly firm, peeled and julienned
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Place all dressing ingredients into a saucepan. Bring dressing to a boil and continue to boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool thoroughly.

Gently combine fennel and pears in a medium bowl. Toss with cooled dressing, lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours.

Per 1/2-cup serving: 150 Calories, 1 g Protein, 39 g Carbohydrates, 0 Total Fat, 0 Cholesterol, 160 mg Sodium, 5 g Fiber. Calories from fat: 0 percent.

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I’m sure that Brick could provide us with more information on the health benefits of pears and fennel but I believe that both are rich in Vitamin C and fiber.

And now I am going to stop before I get caught up in the history of fennel. Danger, Will Robinson!

Seattle Sandfest
When: Saturday, August 23, 2008, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Where: Westlake Park and Westlake Plaza.
$$$: $1 suggested donation

Sand sculpture competitions, a giant kids sandbox, art activities, live music, retailer promotions and more! All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound.

Here is a great community event:

Seattle Paint Out
Where: Pioneer Square, Chinatown/International District, Belltown, Capitol Hill, West Seattle
$$$: Free

At this community event you can volunteer to help clean and cover graffiti while working with a small group and a red wagon to carry supplies. A lunch break may be provided in the neighborhood by a local restaurant.

BELLTOWN
WHEN: Saturday, August 23rd - 9am-1pm
WHERE: Mars Hill Church Parking Lot, 2333 Western Avenue

CAPITOL HILL
WHEN: Sunday, August 24th - 1pm-4pm
WHERE: Fire Station #25 (1300 East Pine Street)

CHINATOWN / INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT
WHEN: Sunday, August 24th - 9am-1pm
WHERE: Hing Hay Park (423 Maynard Ave S)

WEST SEATTLE
WHEN: Saturday, August 23rd - 1:30pm-4:30pm
WHERE: Target Store - 2800 SW Barton Street

PIONEER SQUARE
WHEN: Sunday, August 24th - 9am-1pm
WHERE: Grand Central Arcade (216 First Avenue South)

Summer Sounds & Comcast Cinema Series
When: August 22, 2008
Where: 910 Ninth ST SE, Auburn, Wa
$$$: FREE. Concessions available for a nominal fee.

Live music followed by a concert under the stars in a gorgeous park setting. Featured Movie: TBA. Event hosted by Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation.

Tibet Fest
When: August 23 - August 24
Where: Seattle Center House, Fisher Pavilion
$$$: Free

Ritual and tradition are the heart of Tibet Fest, where the modern and ancient combine in an effort to preserve Tibet’s unique cultural identity. Not only just the country of Tibet, but neighboring Nepal, North India, Ladakh, Bhutan and Mongolia.

Performing groups share centuries old stories and legends through lilting melodies and rhythmic movements, wearing symbolic masks and authentic costumes made of rich fabrics and brocade. A Tibetan-style bazaar with traditional handmade items, prayer flags and more, creates a festive atmosphere. Instruments include unique combinations of flutes, horns, drums, bells and cymbals.

And one for my wine buddies:

Leavenworth Wine Tasting Festival
When: August 23, Sat: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Where: Sleeping Lady Retreat and Conference Center
$$$: $25 Singles, $45 Couples, $15 Concert Only

The Cascade Foothills Farmland Association sponsors this event each year. Not only can visitors sample fine wine from different wineries - they can enjoy Artist Booths, live music and great entertainment.

It’s a great weekend in Seattle for the budget conscious with lots of free things to do!

Brasilfest
When: August 17 2008, 12:00pm
Where: Seattle Center
$$$: Free

Follow the drumbeats to BrasilFest, which celebrates the unique diversity of this South American cultural melting pot. Brazil’s African, Portuguese and indigenous roots are celebrated with classical guitar, samba rhythms and the percussive beats of traditional folk music. Watch a demonstration of the elegant and powerful capoeira martial arts, see glittering costumes and eat authentic food while learning about this varied culture. Presented by Brazil Center and Show Brazil Productions.

Hempfest 2008
When: August 16 2008, 10:00am - 8:00pm
Where: Myrtle Edwards Park
$$$: Free

The theme for this, the seventeenth year of Seattle Hempfest, is Industrial Hemp. With our nation’s stumbling economy, soaring gas prices, and recent global shortages of food and energy we can’t afford to ignore the fact that industrial hemp can play a useful role in securing the vital interests of our nation. There are so many various uses for hemp, it really may be the the world’s most resourceful plant. We are putting a special “hemphasis” on the things Hemp can deliver, and we will have some special displays and presentations from some of the nation’s leading experts this year at Hempfest. Make sure you check out the Hemposium while you’re there.

Central Area Community Festival
When: August 16 - August 17, Saturday Noon - 8PM, Sunday 1PM TO 8PM
Where: Seattle, 2323 East Cherry Street
$$$: Free

An annual festival held in Seattle and hosted by the Central Area Community design to celebrate diversity, heritage and the rich history the community offers. This two-day event features art and cultural exhibits, games, rides, crafts, informational, merchandise, food, and service booths. Fun, food and entertainment abound at this event.

Seattle Faerie Festival
Where: Volunteer Park Amphitheater
When: Aug 16, 2008 at 10:00 am-10:00 pm
$$$: $2 suggested donation

The queen of faeries, Amy Brown, will be in attendance for this Festival. There don’t seem to be many details but it sounds like fun! Entertainment, magic, children’s activities, food, wizardry, vendors and all things faerie, family friendly event; dress in your best Faerie garb for the costume contest, grab your glitter, paint your pooch.

It’s a happening weekend in Auburn this weekend:

Auburn Good Ol’ Days
When: August 08 - August 10, 2008
Where: Auburn, Washington
$$$: Free $15 for the VIP party Friday night

This is a celebration of life; fostering benefit to musicians, authors, poets, artists of all ages, athletes, essayists, non profit organizations, hobbyists, candidates, local businesses, regional businesses, national businesses, the city programs, vendors, volunteers and above all, people and their families.

Festival Latino
When: August 08 - August 10, 2008
Where: Auburn, Washington
$$$: $5, Children under 12 FREE, Everyone FREE on Friday before 5pm and 2pm

The largest Latin Festival in the Puget Sound region. With over 25 carnival rides, 100 booths, delicious food from all over Latin America, high energy entertainment, and a few surprises along the way, this years event is expected to draw over 40,000 people.

It’s a pretty happening weekend in Seattle, too:

Pacific Northwest Quiltfest
When: August 08 - August 10, 2008
Where: Seattle, Washington
$$$: $10.00/three Day pass-$20.00 Parking

Pacific Northwest Quiltfest is the largest juried and judged exhibit of quilts from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbi, Idaho, Montana, Northwest Territories, Oregon, Washington and the Yukon.

Seattle Music Fest at Alki Beach
When: August 10 - August 12, 2008
Where: Alki Beach
$$$: SMF is free with a small, suggested donation.

Three days of amazing music at one of the most beautiful beaches around. New music, new things to do, new foods to try, and an atmosphere like no other event.

Seattle Tattoo Expo
When: August 8-10 2008, 12:00pm - 10:00pm
Where: Seattle Center
$$$: 1 Day: $15 Advance, 3 Day: $35, Day of Show: $20/day

Contests, artists from all over the country (New Jersey to Alaska), with an artist seminar on Friday, Aug. 8 presented by Shawn Barber.

City Chase Seattle
When: August 9 2008
Where: Myrtle Edwards Park, 3130 Alaskan Way W

City Chase, the world’s largest urban adventure series, is a one-day urban adventure race that NBC Chicago has billed as a one-day “Fear Factor meets Amazing Race.” Part scavenger hunt and part obstacle course, City Chase is a full day of navigating around Seattle on foot and using public transportation to compete in physical, mental and humorous challenges. Challenges from last year’s series had participants rappelling down a rock walls, holding live snakes and alligators, and singing before a live audience. Charity is an important component of the event as well–last year Chicago participants raised over $8,000 for Special Olympics doing tasks for strangers on the street! This year partial proceeds from the event will be benefiting Seattle Works. The Seattle team with the best time will advance to the 2008 US National Championships. The victors will represent “Team USA” at the 2008 World Championships in November in Marrakesh, Morocco. To save $25 on team registration simply enter YelpSeattle when signing up for a new team.

Last weekend was action pack and it looks as if this weekend will be no different.

Lets start off with one for my fellow geeks out there:

Star Trek Trvia Night (Next Gen)
When: Friday, August 1 2008, 8:00pm
Where: Neptune Coffee, 8415 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle
$$$: Free

Join super guest host Adam Koehler on a trivia filled extravaganza of all things Star Trek (next gen). Top prizes include Free Coffee, Free Beer, and bizarre 1990 star trek action figures (Mint in Box)

If you missed SeaFair so far then you won’t want to miss the finale:

The Chevrolet Cup
When: Aug. 1-3, 2008
Friday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday: 9 am - 11 pm, Sunday: 8 am - 6 pm
Where: South Lake Washington, Stan Sayres Pits
$$$: Free

The Chevrolet Cup at Seafair is the culmination of the month-long Seafair Festival and is undoubtedly the “Seafair” weekend that thousands look forward to each Summer. The action-packed weekend includes the fastest powerboats in the world, the Unlimited Hydroplanes and the Lights class with its high-intensity, deck-to-deck racing.

Seafair Concert and Fireworks
When: Saturday, August 2, 6:45 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: South Lake Washington
$$$: $10 (Buy Tickets)

Following the “Jail House Rock” of El Vez!, at 9:45 p.m. the Starfire Air Show Performance featuring pilot Bill Leff will ease Seafair fans from daytime racing and music to nighttime theatrics. Leff dazzles audiences with an airborne fireworks display, pyrotechnic effects and light show completely choreographed to music.

Rounding out the night, Seafair will electrify the evening with a fireworks display over the Unlimited Hydroplane race course. Feel the rumbling and witness the beauty as they illuminate the night sky above Lake Washington.

Umoja Fest African American Heritage Festival & Parade
When: Aug 1, 2008 through Aug 3, 2008, 12 -5pm
Where: Judkins Park, Central District, Seattle
$$$: Free

Umoja Fest African American Heritage Festival & Parade is the oldest and largest African American community festival in the northwest. This weekend long artistic and cultural extravaganza brings people of all ethnic backgrounds together for a celebration of culture, education and community building. Activities include Children’s Day, African Drum & Dance, Live Jazz, Gospel, Soul, Reggae & Hip Hop Peace and Unity Concerts, a Basketball Tournament, Fashion Expo and a marketplace of Food/Crafts vendors and Community Resource & Education Booths.

Sitar Festival & Concert
When: Saturday, August 2nd, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Where: Seattle Center NW Rooms
$$$: $4 - $10.50

It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to attend a Sitar concert. Celebrate tunes of Joy, Spirituality, and Inspiration. The upcoming inaugural sitar festival includes an exhibit and offers a unique chance to play a sitar and learn how to use a mizrab, the sitar pick. All are invited to join the chimta circle and the drum circle. Festival organizers will provide the instruments. Participants can also bid on sitars, chimta and tabla sets in a silent auction. “This event is not to be missed,” says Zafar Ibrahim, President, Crispus Industries. “Plan to spend an hour or two. Sitar Festival with a concert. Sitar concert starts a 8PM. We present the honorable Josh Feinberg on Sitar and the honorable Javad Butah on Tabla. Tickets for concert are $10.50 each. The concert ticket also admits you to the Sitar Festival activities. Tickets for the Festival are $4.00 for children and $6.00 for adults.”

Tour de Fat
When: Saturday, August 2 2008, 9:00am
Where: Gas Works Park
$$$: Free

If you’re looking for a way to get some exercise and contribute to a good cause then look no further than Tour de Fat. Presented by the Bicycle Alliance of Washington and Bike Works, Tour de Fat raises money toward local charities, Team Wonderbike, and a Car Bike Swap. So far they’ve raised $806,000! Get on down to Gas Works Park and support sustainable Seattle with Seattle’s Fattest Bike Festival! Costumes and decorated bikes of all shapes and sizes come to ride in the bike parade. Fellow bikers and enjoy good music, entertainment, and beer by New Belgium. Who knows, maybe someday you’ll be riding Tour de FIT!

If you’re a wine lover and you don’t mind a little bit of a drive then here’s one for you:

EAT & DRINK In The Northwest
When: Sat, August 2 2008, 12:00pm - 5:30pm
Where: Brian Carter Cellars, 14419 Woodinville-Redmond Rd, Woodinville, WA
$$$: $0.00-8.00

Sample through several of their award winning wines including the Tuttorosso, Oriana and Byzance, as featured in the first two editions of EAT & DRINK In The Northwest. There is a nominal tasting fee of $8.00, refundable with any wine purchase of $24.00 or over. Meet the co-creators of the innovative book EAT & DRINK In The Northwest, Marcus Pape and chef Melissa Peterman, and try a sampling of appetizers inspired from the recipes of the second book, EAT & DRINK summer edition.

Farmstock Festival of the Arts
When: August 2 & 3, 10AM - 5PM
Where: Bainbridge Island , Washington, USA
$$$: Festival of Arts is Free, After 5 concerts are ticketed

Art and Music Expo is a grassroots art and music trade show and art sale. This event will feature two days of art, demonstrations and workshops, live music, and a special invitational art exhibit, including works by Elizabeth Sandvig, Deon Matzen, Kathryn Trigg, Claudia McKinstry and others.

Lake City Summer Festival
When: Saturday, August 2nd, at 7:00 p.m.
Where: NE 125th Street, Seattle
$$$: Bring some MEALS IN A CAN to help feed the hungry.

This annual event is fun for the whole family. We host a Vintage Car Show, Senior Games, Street Fair with arts, crafts, commercial and food vendors, Family Fun with children’s games, arts & crafts, Rotary Kids Parade, Salmon Bake and a Grand Performance Parade.

I apologize for the severe lack of posts lately. 451 has been undergoing growing pains that required server upgrades. The upgrades made it difficult to post. I’m happy to say that the upgrades are now complete and regular postings should continue.

I’ll start off with a look at upcoming events for the weekend.

Renton River Days
When: July 25 - 27, 2008, 11am-8pm
Where: Liberty Park

Featuring two entertainment stages, Nibble of Renton, Art Market (arts and crafts booths), Renton Annual Art Show (juried fine art show at the Renton Community Center), Quilt Show (inside the Library), Chalk Art Contest (on the tennis courts), inflatables for kids, pony rides (dirt infield at Cedar River Park), plus much more! No Pets, Please! For the safety, health, courtesy and enjoyment of your pets and all festival-goers, please leave your pets at home. Large crowds make it a very stressful and dangerous environment for pets.

Bellevue Arts & Crafts Fair
When: July 25 - July 27, 2008, Fri, Sat 9:30 am - 9:30 pm; Sun, 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Where: West side of Bellevue Square, Bellevue, Wa

The 2007 Bellevue Arts Museum ArtsFair was a resounding success! Over 350,000 people attended the event presented by Coldwell Banker Bain Bellevue Way, which included 325 high-quality artist booths, artist demonstrations, lively entertainment, and Kidsfair presented by The Seattle Times.

Blues, Brews, and BBQs
When: July 25, 2008
Where: Cheney Stadium, Tacoma, Wa
$$$: $35

Looking to fill your evening in a lip-smacking, honest-to-goodness, stick-to-your-ribs kind of way? Head down to Cheney Stadium this summer for their monthly live music series Blues, Brews and BBQs. The music’s all that – and the barbecue won’t be bad either.

2 Seafair Events this weekend:

Southwest Airlines Torchlight Parade
When: Saturday, July 26, 7:30 p .m.
Where: Fourth Avenue, Downtown Seattle
$$$: $18-37

The Southwest Torchlight Parade is the largest nighttime parade in the Pacific Northwest with more than 300,000 people lining the streets of downtown Seattle. Precision drill teams, community floats, regional and international bands, equestrian units, giant helium balloons, comical clowns and swashbuckling pirates all come together in downtown Seattle to celebrate true family and community entertainment.

Wells Fargo Torchlight Run
When: Saturday, July 26, 2008, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Qwest Field, Seattle
Registration: $25 (8K) $20 (5K) Day of Event $30 (8K), $25 (5K)

This 8K run takes participants from Qwest Field up Alaskan Way on the Seattle Waterfront to Seattle Center and down the Torchlight Run parade route, just prior to the parade’s start. 300,000 parade attendees line 4th Avenue each year to cheer on participants and claim their spot for the parade which starts just after the runners pass through the route. The post-race party at Qwest Field is a festive atmosphere on a typically beautiful warm Saturday night.

If you don’t mind a little bit of a drive you might enjoy:

Pacific Northwest Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering
When: July 26 - July 27, 2008
Where: Enumclaw, Washington, USA
$$$: Adults – $12.00 one-day or $18.00 two-day pass Seniors, 60 & Over – $9.00 one-day or $13.00 two-day pass Children, 5 to 17 – $9.00 one-day or $13.00 two-day pass
Children under 5 – free
Parking: $4.00 per day

Be amazed by the titans who deftly toss the caber and put the stone, matching skill and strength against the odds on the athletic field of battle. Delight in the soothing sound of the Celtic harpists as they compete and then join together for a Harpers’ Circle jam session. Thrill to the bourdon of the bagpipes and the cadence of the drums as you witness, first hand, the fine array of talented pipers and drummers competing before judges of worldwide renown. Behold the grace and elegance of the Scottish dancers as they regale you with the Highland and National dances of Scotland.

2008 Ballard Seafood Fest
When: Saturday, July 26 2008, 11:00am - 8:00pm
Where: Ballard, 2208 NW Market St., Seattle, WA
$$$: Free

Entertainment for all ages, beer and wine gardens, a plethora of seafood vendors, arts and crafts and our unique contests, it’s a great, old fashioned summer party.

Punk Rock Flea Market!
When: Saturday, July 26 2008, 10:00am
Where: Underground Events Center, 2407 1st Ave, Seattle, WA
$$$: $1.00

This is a full on flea market selling everything you can imagine, including records, clothing, furniture, computers, stereo equipment, housewares, haircuts, toys, videos, bicycles, tacos, falafels, vegan treats, skateboards, political propaganda, information from non profit groups, book stores, artists selling their work, bike repair, baby stuff, tarot readings & whatever else we can fit into the space. Don’t let the name lead you to believe that we only welcome vendors selling punk records, clothes etc. The “Punk Rock” of the name refers as much to the DIY spirit of the event as it does to any particular music or lifestyle. ‘Nuff said.

Wow, there is so much going on I can’t list them all!

Seattle, WA, 07/26/08, 07/25/08, games, highland, tacoma, enumclaw, ballard, what’s going on, what’s happening, festivals, fests, weekend, punk art, seafood, seafair, torchlight, run, parade, arts, crafts, fair, things to do, July

It was nearly a year ago that I first stayed at the Seattle Westin Downtown. While the room itself was lovely my overall stay was disappointing. As we exited the hotel elevator we were greeted by what appeared to be a large pile of dog poo and a big extraction fan. Fortunately it turned out to be a large pile of chocolate covered raisins but nonetheless the pile remained in front of our hotel room for two days before I complained and it was finally removed. We weren’t so lucky with the big extraction fan. That sat outside our door until the day we left.

When I returned home I wrote about my experience and forwarded my entry to the management at the Westin. In return I received a very nice email from the Hotel Manager, Andrea Norton. She wrote:

Ms. Myers

Thank you for sending me the link to your review of our hotel. I was disappointed and embarrassed that we failed you in so many ways.

Please accept my sincere apologies. I have shared all your comments (positive and negative) with the appropriate departments.

I hope you will afford us an opportunity to regain your confidence and patronage. Should your travels bring you back to the Seattle area, please do not hesitate to call me directly so I may personally attend to your reservation and stay.

Be well,

Andrea Norton
Hotel Manager, The Westin Seattle

In a day when customer service seems at an all time low and few companies bother to acknowledge customer complaints, it was refreshing to receive acknowledgment and an apology. Common courtesy goes a very long way in my book.

It was for that very reason that I took Andrea up on her offer and gave the Westin a second chance. Sadly our return to Seattle was due to a death in the family. We decided to end our trip on a happy note by staying downtown and spending a week enjoying our favorite city. In other words, I was entrusting a very important trip to Ms Norton and the staff of the Westin.

Thankfully, our trust was well placed. From the moment of our arrival the staff did their very best to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. We had a great view the last time we stayed at the Westin but this time the view was magnificent. We opened our curtains to find the Space Needle right in the center of our window with the Olympic peninsula spread out before us. It was breathtaking. Why am I telling you when I can show you?

Our luggage followed quickly behind us along with a cart carrying chocolate covered strawberries, cheese, sliced pears and nuts. We’d mentioned to the desk manager who checked us in that we’d brought a case and a half of wine with us from the Yakima Valley. He thoughtfully sent the tray up to go with our wine.

I was somewhat embarrassed to learn that nearly every staff member I encountered had actually read my last review. One told me, “We’ve made a lot of changes. Your review was a good wake-up call. It’s our goal to have you leave feeling better than when you arrived.”

A couple of days into our stay I received a note from Andrea asking how our stay was going. I told her everything was going great and if I were to complain about anything, and this would be a minor issue, it was that I was unable to make a decent cup of tea in my room. You see, I grew up in England and I drink a good 10 cups of tea a day. In the old days you used to get a small coffee pot that you could run water through and get an ok cup of tea. Not great, mind you, but tolerable. Nowadays they tend to have pod pots. I ran water through the pod at least a dozen times and still bits of coffee were floating in my cup. I gave up.

Andrea kindly had a proper tea kettle delivered to my room. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work correctly but I greatly appreciated the effort. The next morning I rang downstairs and asked if they could send me another one. When I returned to the room at the end of the day there was a new tea kettle and my message light was blinking. It seems that the hotel didn’t have another tea kettle, so they bought me one.

They bought me a new tea kettle!

I felt rather bad about that so I emailed Andrea and apologized for being such a pain in the tookus. Her reply, “That is how great service should be.”

In fact, that is exactly how great the service was at the Westin.

So, to Andrea, Cameron and the rest of the wonderful staff I’d like to take this opportunity to say Thank You! for exceeding our expectations. Thank You! for caring about the experience of two people all the way from Austin, Tx. We very much look forward to our next stay at the Westin.

Seattle, Downtown, Westin, Review, Hats Off, Hotels

Flying Fish
2234 1st Ave
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 728-8595

After a long day spent walking all over downtown Seattle and an afternoon spent stuffing our faces with dozens of fresh oysters at Elliott’s Oyster House, I wasn’t terribly hungry for a big dinner. I was looking around for a place where we could get a light dinner when I stumbled across the website for the Flying Fish. Their menu sporting “small plates” sounded like just the ticket. We called ahead and were told we wouldn’t need reservations and so we left the hotel and walked to the restaurant.

The Flying Fish is located in an area of Seattle known as “Belltown”, a trendy neighborhood filled with nightclubs, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. It was a lovely evening for a walk, which helped to invigorate our appetite.

The restaurant is painted in bright colors with interesting art and a view into the bustling kitchen. We were seated immediately at a cozy booth where we perused the menu while sipping a lovely glass of Cabernet Savignon from the Bonair Winery in the Yakima Valley. A winery I toured and reviewed nearly a year ago.

After much consideration we settled on two “small plates”, the Thai crab cakes and the calamari. In addition we chose a platter of sister-in-law mussels which came with a chili lime dipping sauce.

The calamari was perfectly prepared. It simply melted in our mouths and both the honey jalapeño mayonnaise and cilantro oil were excellent accompaniments. The Thai crab cakes came with a lemongrass mayonnaise and were delicious.

The real show stopper though, was the sister-in-law mussels. It was love at first bite. I’ve eaten many a bowl of mussels but none like these. These little babies had been steamed in a Thai ginger and lemongrass concoction and came with a chili lime dipping sauce that made me weak in the knees. It was that good. The waiter was kind enough to tell us what was in the dipping sauce and gave us an idea of what went into the steam. I shipped a few pounds of mussels back to Austin and when I got home I gave it a go. I was quite pleased with the results and if it’s not the exact same recipe it’s close enough!

If you’re local to Seattle, or visiting, don’t miss the Flying Fish. The service was excellent. The food was divine! If you’re not local, do try my recipe, you’ll love it!

Seattle, Belltown, restaurant, review, downtown, seafood, Thai, Asian, mussels, small plates

May 11th is Mother’s Day and I bet you’re already scrambling for things to do and places to go. Or maybe that’s just me. No, seriously, my father just told me that he’s whisking my mum away to the casinos. Nice of him to let me know, huh? Parents. Sheesh.

So, first off, let’s look at brunch venues. You know my favorites, right?

Salty’s Seafood Grill
at Alki or Redondo

Salty’s is a class act with a spectacular brunch offering. Their food is simply the best. Check out my review. Top that fabulous food off with a fabulous view and you will understand why Salty’s always ranks at the top of my brunch list. DO call for reservations and I suggest you call NOW! Salty’s is a popular restaurant and will fill up fast. I have to admit that my favorite of the two locations is Redondo. It’s just beautiful there and to me, it’s worth the drive. However, the Alki location is also great. Their Sunday brunch is just fantastic and well worth the moderate price they charge. Brunch will usually set you back about $35 per person. The staff is friendly and accommodating and if the weather is nice, sit out on the deck.

• Alki Beach – Seattle (206) 937-1600
• Redondo Beach – Des Moines/South Seattle (253) 946-0636
• Columbia River – Portland (503) 288-4444

The Salish Lodge

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, this is hands down my favorite place to go for special occasions.

The Salish is offering up two menus this year. Their brunch menu will start you off with a glass of Northwestern Sparkling Wine, Mimosa or a Kir Royal. There will be baskets brimming with croissants, danishes and muffins. You’ll find an Omelette Station, a Seafood Station, a Carving Station and of course, a Dessert Station.

The Grand Buffet will have more traditional breakfast fare with buttermilk pancakes, old fashioned steel-cut oats with caramelized Wenatchee apples, brown sugar, raisins and almonds, artisan preserves and farmstead breads. Or you might like an omelette, served up with jumbo shrimp & smoked salmon herbed potatoes, savory marinara sauce, or poached eggs with crispy crab cakes, diced peppers herb shoestring potatoes and sauce béarnaise. You’re sure to find something you love at the Salish! ($49)

Campagne

Treat your maman to a bonne fête des mères at Campagne. Mother’s Day brunch hours are 9 AM to 2 PM. Of course they’ll be serving French toast, but not just any French toast. Oh no, theirs has been soaked in a bourbon egg batter. In addition there will be house-made dungeness crab and leek quiche, house-made chicken and mushroom sausage served with sautéed potatoes, country-style pork and chicken liver pâté and pan-roasted beef onglet served with pommes frites. Yum!

Mother’s Day Tea at Meeker Mansion
Where: Puyallup, Washington, USA
When: May 11, 2008

The Mansion will serve a formal Victorian Tea in three seatings per day, at 12:30, 2:00, and 3:30 p.m. The cost is $12.00 per person (includes tour of Mansion). Prepaid reservations are required! Please make your reservations early as this very popular event fills fast. Call 253-848-1770 for reservations or more information. Keepsake Photos Available

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The Seattle Opera is offering a Mother’s Day Tea, as well. Take mom to see I Puritani and make it extra special by treating her to an afternoon Tea before the show. Enjoy freshly brewed tea, a selection of finger sandwiches and sweets, and exclusive pre-show access to the Norcliffe Room lounge at McCaw Hall. Take a break from the crowds and spend some quality time with Mom on her special day.

Tickets for the tea and the 2:00 p.m. performance of I Puritani are sold separately and are available through the Seattle Opera Ticket Office at 206.389.7676 or 800.426.1619.

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If you’re kid’s mama is a comic book geek, and yes, I do know several female comic book geeks then consider taking her to the Emerald City ComiCon. The Emerald City ComiCon is the largest comic book and pop culture convention in the Northwest. There will be comic artists, exhibitors, and dealers looking to sell comic books, toys, magazines, and collectible cards. There will also be game tournaments, a Costume Contest, and several panels scheduled.

Emerald City ComiCon
Where: Washington State Convention Center
When: Sat 10a-6p, Sun 10a-5p
$$$: $30 for 2-day pass, $20 Sat, $15 Sun

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If your mom is a gardener she’d probably enjoy the Federal Way Buds & Blooms Spring Garden Tour & Festival. Buds and Blooms will be celebrating Mother’s Day with workshops and tours. They will also showcase three top Federal Way gardens, an old-growth wetlands and wildlife

When: Sunday, May 11 2008 @ 10:00 PM PDT - 04:00PM
Where: Federal Way
$$$: $3-$5

Free Shuttle to all festival sites. Recommended parking at the Bonsai/rhododendron Gardens both days, and The Commons on Saturday only.

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If you’re up for a little trip. You might want to check out MaiFest in Leavenworth. Celebrate Mother’s Day in Bavaria! Enjoy entertainment all weekend. Experience the Grand March and Procession including townspeople and vistors in Trachten (Traditional Bavarian Garb), horses and carriages, Leavenworth’s Beirwagon, Bernese Mountain Dogs and more! Join MaiFest dignitaries and speical guests in a salute to and celebration of MaiFest in Leavenworth with great live entertainment and traditional German dancing including the Maipole Dance. Stroll through the Bavarian Village of Flowers, visit all of our great shops and restaurants and tap your toes to oompa music! Sponsored by the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce.

MaiFest
Where: Front Street, Leavenworth, WA 98826
When: May 9-11, 2008
Phone: (509) 548-5807

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Or head to Pacific Beach for the Sandcastle Competition. Sand sculptures on the beach. Professional and novice sculpt sand art. It could be a mermaid, it could be a hog on a Harley, it can be just about anything.

Pacific Beach SandCastle Competition
When: May 10th, 2008
Where: Address: Pacific Beach, Pacific Beach, WA 98571
$$$: Free

Seattle, Wa, Mother’s Day, Things to do, What’s Happening, Brunch, Sunday, Salish Lodge, Salty’s, Restaurants, Festivals, Sandcastle Competition, Pacific Beach, Tea, Opera, Meeker Mansion, Mai, Fest, MaiFest, Leavenworth, Campagne, Emerald City, ComiCon, Federal Way, Buds, Blooms, Seafood

I’m coming home! I’m happy to say I’ll be in Seattle in just a couple of weeks. I can’t wait. Elliott’s Oyster House, here I come! We’ll spend a week in the Yakima Valley and a week in Seattle. Right now I’m trying to talk my mother into coming for the week in Seattle. She’s never been but has often expressed a desire to visit Seattle. I’m already planning out all the places I’d like to take her.

Ah, if only I were there this weekend I would certainly hit this event:

Hop Scotch: Spring Beer and Scotch Tasting Festival
Where: Fremont Studios, Seattle
When: Friday May 2nd, 5pm-12am and Saturday May 3rd, 1pm-12am
$$$: $15 advance, $20 at the door

Hop Scotch is the celebration of all things spring. Toast to the new brews, and learn the art of Scotch tasting during this sixth annual event. This years celebration will also host a tequila tasting with its close placement to Cinco de Mayo.

If you’re into gardening, you may want to catch this event:
Tilth’s Annual Edible Plant Sale
Where: Good Shepherd Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N.
$$$: No entry fee
When: Saturday 9 am -3 pm and Sunday 11 am -3 pm

There will be a large variety of vegetable starts including tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, herbs, drought tolerant and disease resistant perennials, and much more for sale at this annual event. They have a huge selection especially of organically grown heirloom vegetable starts.

For those of you who are crafters or at least enjoy hand made goods, check out this event:

I Heart Rummage

When: Sunday, May 4 2008, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Where:
Chop Suey
3.5 star rating based on 41 reviews
1325 E. Madison Street
Seattle, WA
(206) 324-8000
$$$: Free

Looking for something unique and unusual? IHR features 40 of the Northwest’s most innovative indie designers and urban crafters at Chop Suey the first Sunday of most every month. IHR has what’s edgy and new in the world of urban crafts and functional art.

If you fancy a little trip this weekend you might consider this:

12th Annual Victorian Festival
Where: Port Townsend, Washington, USA
When: May 02 - May 04, 2008
$$$: See Website

Nestled in the Northeast corner of the Olympic Peninsula at the entrance to Puget Sound is beautiful Port Townsend, our historic Victorian Seaport and Arts Community. Come to the Victorian Festival and plan to stay a few days, partaking of the Festival fun and the limitless opportunities for exploration of historic sites and natural wonders all over the Peninsula. The city enjoys a unique place on the National Historic Register. One of only three such ports on the entire coastline of the United States, Port Townsend is known for its Victorian era architecture, breathtaking bayside harbor location and a wide variety of outdoor activities. Both marine and forest environments await. The mission of the Jefferson County Historical Society (JCHS) is “To actively discover, collect, preserve, and promote the heritage of Jefferson County in the State of Washington.

Seattle, Wa, What’s, Going on, Happening, Events, Things to do, weekend, I heart rummage, Hop Scotch, Festival, Beer, Gardening, Port Townsend, Victorian

What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to get out and enjoy nature? Well, I’ll tell you. Enjoy nature AND clean up the planet! You can do just that at any Metro Park on Saturday from 9 to noon. Check out their website for more information.

If have a building project in mind, you may want to check out the sale this weekend at Earthwise where everything will be on sale for 10-50% off. Earthwise carries just about every item you could possibly want. Doors, windows, molding, cabinets, lighting, hardware and more! Not to mention appliances & tiles. You can also sell or trade your own recyclables there, too. Check them out!
or…

Join SCA, the University of Washington, and Seattle Parks and Recreation for a day of fun projects at the Washington Park Arboretum on Saturday, April 19.

What: Earth Day 2008 with University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) and Seattle Parks and Recreation
When: April 19, 2008, 8:30 – 3:00
Where: Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle
Who: SCA alumni, Conservation Leadership Corps members, SCA supporters, community members, SCA staff, UWBG staff, Seattle Parks and Recreation staff
Why: To celebrate our Earth, work together to beautify our community, get youth and community members involved.

Details:

• We will be working on a variety of projects around the Washington Park Arboretum. Something for everyone!
• Bring water bottle, sack lunch, snacks, sunscreen, rain gear, long pants, work gloves and boots.
• Directions to Washington Park Arboretum.

RSVP to join us on April 19th

or…

Leap for Green!

A sustainability fair for the community of Mercer Island, Washington, USA. Focus of the fair is the engagement of Children of All Ages in the issues surrounding sustainability and living lighter on the land. There will be book readings/signings, a Native American story teller and drummer, a reptile man, footprint calculators designed for different ages, a park planting event, mini-farmers market, a slide presentation of Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth and much more. It will be at the Mercer Island Community Center on Saturday, April 19th, 2008 from 10am to 2pm. Children come and bring your parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles!

Check here for more Earth Day events.

Seattle, Tacoma, WA, events, earth day, April, Weekend, Things to do, family, children, Leap for Green, Metro, Parks, Mercer Island, sustainability, fair, Earthwise, salvage, sale

Go GREEN this weekend with the Seattle Green Festival! Did you know that Seattle was named one of the top 10 green cities in the U.S. in 2005 by National Geographic’s The Green Guide. The event will highlight gree products and services in Seattle. This year’s festival details are:

When: April 12 - April 13, 2008
Where:
Washington State Convention & Trade Center
800 Convention Place
Seattle, WA
$$$: $15 Festival Pass (per person). You get some cool extras with your admission. See website for more details.

Better World Books and Green Festival are partnering to offer $5 off Green Festival admission to attendees who bring in 3 or more books. Your donated books will be sold on BetterWorld.com to help fund girls’ scholarships in developing countries in Asia through Room to Read. www.roomtoread.org

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This is the last weekend for The Moisture Festival. The annual Moisture Festival is a comedy/varietè showcase of local, national and international artists with something for everyone: Aerialists, acrobats, jugglers, dancers, musicians, clowns, comedians, and magicians. There are also “Burlesque meets Comedy/Varieté” shows at ACT Theatre.

When: Shows end April 13th, 2008
Where:
Hale’s Palladium
4301 Leary Way NW,
Seattle’s Fremont/Ballard neighborhoods
$$$: Ticket prices vary. Check their website.

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This is also the last weekend for Whirligig 2008! Now in its 26th year, this wacky world of carnival color and kid-sized action is the definition of fun. Remember being told, “no running in the house?” Well, here’s a house (Center House) where kids can bounce, slide, glide and ride on super-cool, super-size inflatable rides. A special Toddler Zone is also available.

Whirligig! runs daily and charges a minimal fee for a single ride ticket or a day-use pass except, KIDS RIDE FREE on Thursdays (in Center House not the Fun Forest). Face painters and balloon artists also charge a nominal fee.

HELPFUL HINT: Avoid the crowds and play Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Dates: March 28 - April 13, 2008
Times: Monday - Thursday, 11 AM - 4 PM;
Friday - Sunday, 11 AM - 6 PM
$$$: All-Day Pass $7.25, All-Day Toddler Pass $4.25,
Single Ticket $1.50 and FREE Thursdays.

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You can take part in a tradition this weekend and attend The Daffodil Festival The Daffodil Festival, a 501(c)(3) Organization, will celebrate its 75th year during the 2008 festival season and takes pride in calling the great State of Washington, specifically Pierce County, its home. The Festival is an annual event that culminates in April with a Grand Floral Street Parade, which travels through the cities of Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner and Orting, all in one day. The Theme for 2008 will be “75″ Years, Remembering Your First Daffodil Parade”.

When: Saturday, April 12 2008 @ 10:30 AM PDT - 12:00PM
Where: S 11th and Pacific to S 21st and Pacific

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Seattle Book sale! If you like to read as much as I do then this is your event! The Friends of The Seattle Public Library holds two major book sales each year. At each sale, over 200,000 books and other items are offered to the general public, including:

• Art prints and posters
• Audiocassettes
• Books



• Compact discs
• Computer software
• Records
• Sheet music
• Videocassettes and DVDs

When: Saturday, April 12 2008, 9:00am
Where:
Warren G. Magnuson Park
7400 Sand Point Way NE
Seattle, WA
(206) 684-4946
$$$: Free

Most books cost $1.00, but the sale also features “better books” including recent releases, and rare and collectible books, which are available at affordable prices even though they are higher priced than the majority of books. The price of other items varies, but all are “good deals.”

Those are my picks for the weekend. What are you up to?

weekend, Seattle, WA, events, things to do, what’s, happening, going on, 4/12/08, 4/13/08, April, Whiligig, Daffodil, Festival, Moisture, Green, Sustainable

April looks like a fine month to be a wine lover. I just got a note from Jim Russi of Piety Flats Winery with a list of spring events for the Rattlesnake AVA over the next few weeks. Jim also mentions that he may have lost some email addresses when he updated his computer recently. If you find that you’re no longer receiving updates, you may want to contact Jim and get back on his mailing list.

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Yakima Valley wine country. Without further ado, here is a list of upcoming events:

April

18, 19 & 20 Pre-Barrel Tasting on Friday, Saturday and Sunday The annual weekend before Spring Barrel Tasting is PRE-BARREL TASTING weekend, where the wineries roll out the barrels in a quieter, more intimate event featuring new wine releases, conversations with the winemakers about their hand-crafted wines, and great wine specials. Avoid the crowds that will be at all the wineries next weekend. Come to the wineries this weekend to sample new releases and blends. What’s the difference between this weekend and Spring Barrel Tasting the next? It’s all about the wine this weekend! Smaller crowds, no live bands, no fees or tickets, and more one-on-one with the winemakers. Some wineries will offer futures for sale on their soon-to-be released, hand-crafted wines. (Complimentary – no ticket required)

25, 26, & 27 Spring Barrel Tasting on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Three full days of wine sampling and festivities.) Wine is not all you’ll experience during Spring Barrel Tasting weekend in the Rattlesnake Hills. Several wineries will have other things to tease you out of your winter doldrums, including live bands, BBQ at reasonable prices, and artists displaying their art. But the real entertainment is the barrel tasting, where winemakers offer samples of their hand-crafted wares while discussing terroir, grape cultivation, fermentation, or the fruit forwardness of the barreled wine. Learn the art of tasting the fruit of the vine, made and refined in the newest American Viticulture Area that is so close to Yakima, the Rattlesnake Hills! (Complimentary – no ticket required) Most of the wineries do not charge a tasting fee, except for their reserve wines, and no ticket is required to visit any of the wineries on the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail. We want you to experience the wines in the Rattlesnake Hills. Once you do, we’re sure you’ll want to buy! However, great discounts and/or free reserve tasting can be yours with a $5 Passport. Ask about them at any of the 15 wineries on the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Trail or at the Visitor Center in Yakima off I-82 at exit 33A. Three exciting days of great new wines, live bands, BBQ, artists, and more are on the Trail during the annual Spring Barrel Tasting! Just 2 hours from Seattle, and 2.5 from Portland, the Rattlesnake Hills wineries are just outside Yakima, WA and offer full estate wineries where the grapes for many of Washington’s premier wines are grown. For more information on this or any other Rattlesnake Hills event, E-mail info@rattlesnakehills.com or call 888.375.RHWT..

Those sampling wines from the barrel will need a glass. Glasses may be purchased at the wineries.

WINERY EVENTS during SPRING BARREL TASTING:

Bonair Winery – The fun and fabulous Bonair staff will offer barrel samples of our 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Hills, Morrison Vineyard. This intense full-bodied 100% cabernet is from the oldest vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills, planted 40 years ago in 1968.
Claar Cellars - Claar Cellars will be barrel tasting our 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. Rattlesnake Hills Passport holders are also invited to try a special barrel tasting of our Fouled Anchor Port. Bruno Corneaux, our winemaker will be on hand the 25-27th to talk about our wines.
Eaton Hill Winery – While St. Patrick was in the Rattlesnake Hills chasing out the snakes, he blessed Eaton Hill with Angel’s Posole’ – A heavenly soup divinely perfected to compliment our devilishly delicious Hungarian Oak Estate Rose’ de Franc and Riesling.
Horizon’s Edge Winery – Enjoy a bottle of wine while listening to the music. Live Band from 12:00-3:00PM on Saturday the 26th. Tasting from the Barrel: Vanilla Port Style Desert Wine. Passport holders receive free Food and Wine Matching Wheel with any Case purchase (one wheel per person) and 12% off all wine purchases, and 20% off with each case purchase.
Hyatt Vineyards – Barrel samples and new releases are featured this fabulous weekend. Don’t miss the live band, Blind Lemon Pie, on both Saturday and Sunday afternoons until closing, General Grant’s BAR-B-Q, and Ron’s Original Kettle Korn. Also, bottled water will be for sale, benefitting Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. This is always the weekend to be at Hyatt Vineyards!
Maison de Padgett Winery – Stop here for the fun and wine! Live Band from 12:00-3:00PM on Saturday the 26th . Tasting from the Barrel: Malbec Port. Passport holders receive a free poster with any 3 bottle purchase (one poster per person) 12% off all wine purchases and 20% each case purchase.
Masset Winery - Masset Winery will feature two unique wines to sample from the barrel and we will also be showing off our new releases! Also, please stop by to check on the progress of our latest Masset art project! Chairs and a gazebo on the lawn to relax in front of the historic 1905 Angel Farmstead Barn, maybe some cheese from our gift shop/tasting room? Don’t miss our new Chardonnay and dry Rose’ - perfect for summer. See you soon, the Massets
Paradisos del Sol Winery - For the 24th year, The Man in the Wild Pants will attempt enlightenment in the Arcane Magick of barrels and wines. Barrel One – Lemberger resting for 30 months. Barrel Two – Lemberger, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Tempranillo, and Sangiovese married for 30 months. Dave Ettl will also be attempting enlightenment via his own brand of Magic on Saturday afternoon, April 26.
Piety Flats Winery – Sample our scintillating 2006 Syrah direct from the barrel, browse the famous gift shop for wonderful treasures, or picnic on the lawn with a bottle of one of our award-winning wines.
Portteus Vineyards – We’ll have a couple of delicious reds from the barrel, but you’ll have to stop in to discover what they are!
Severino Cellars - Join Severino Cellars for it’s very first Spring Barrel Tasting! We will be serving wines from 10am-6pm and can’t wait to share our wine with you. Our new spring release is a 2005 Chardonnay and we will be sampling Cabernet Sauvignon from the barrel. For those of you who may need a snack during the day, we will have oysters on the half shell, hot off the BBQ (we really enjoy them with the Riesling). For more information please contact us at 509-829-3800.
Silver Lake at Roza Hills - Come Taste what the future has in store for Silver Lake Winery’s award winning wines during the Spring Barrel Tasting event! Sample newly fermented wines straight out of the oak barrels and compare them to their already bottled counterparts. Enjoy your sipping and sampling while relaxing in front of an incredible panoramic view of the valley with a great meal and some wonderful music all afternoon and into the evening on Saturday, April 26th. Stop here for your bottled water, too. This weekend only, take home all your favorite Reserves and Grand Reserves with our weekend 25% off Sale!
Steppe Cellars - Steppe Cellars will be sampling its 2007 Malbec from the barrel during the spring barrel tasting weekends. This will be one component of our Bordeaux style blend. Enjoy a fantastic picnic on Saturday prepared by Guerra’s Gourmet. We will serve grilled local asparagus along with grilled sausages, bread and salad on the Saturday of Barrel Tasting - (April 26). You can always purchase picnic goodies from the tasting room and make your own picnic. If you are looking for a great way to spend evening Friday evening, come to Steppe Cellars’ wine-maker’s dinner at Buhrmaster Bakery in Yakima. Wine-maker Anke Friemuth-Wildman will discuss our wines as you sample them with this delicious and thoughtfully paired dinner.
Tefft Cellars - We have a Vintage Wine Dinner on Sat 4/19 $35.00 Spanish Tapas ending with Paella and tasting older vintages. All SBT specials will be in effect. By reservation only 5-8 P.M. Limited seating – make reservations early! During Spring Barrel Tasting, we will be offering samples of our 2007 Viognier from the barrel and many other ‘specials’.
Two Mountain Winery – During Barrel Tasting weekend, not only will we offer barrel samples of our delicious wines, but for the first time, we will be having the band ‘Distant Satellite’ playing from 4-6pm on Saturday! Mariano’s famous Tacos Uruapan will be available for purchase all day. Per co-owner Pat Rawn, “They are the best tacos in town (or Mexico in my opinion).”

Remember the most important thing. Bring a glass or purchase one from any of the wineries.

WA, Washington, Yakima Valley, spring, wine, wineries, barrel, tasting, Rattlesnake Hills, Events, pre-barrel

For those of you with children looking to spend breakfast or brunch with the Easter Bunny, here are a few ideas:

Alki Community Center Pancake Breakfast
Saturday, March 22nd 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy scrambled eggs, sausage, juice, coffee, and allyou- can-eat pancakes. After breakfast you can enjoy the family candy hunt with your kids. (Ages 5 & under free)
Activity Fee: $4

Woodland Zoo Easter Brunch
Sunday, March 23, 2008, 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Usher in the season of spring at Woodland Park Zoo’s Easter Brunch at the Rain Forest Food Pavilion. The delicious menu includes carved ham, potatoes, fruits, pastries and more. It also includes a special visit from the Easter Bunny and an up-close animal encounter. Cost for members: $28.75 for adults; $16.95 for children ages 3-10; free for children ages 2 and under. Cost for non-members: $35.50 for adults; $21.75 for children ages 3-10; free for children ages 2 and under. Prices include zoo admission, service charge and tax. Advance reservations and pre-payment required. Must enter through the West Entrance at N. 55th St. & Phinney Ave. N. For more information and reservations, call 206.548.2662.

Supermall Easter Bunny Brunch
Saturday, March 22nd, 9-10:30am
1101 SuperMall Way, Suite 1268
Auburn, WA 98001
Food Court

Have breakfast with the Easter Bunny and Radio Disney. There will be games, music and fun! There will be coffee and cocoa for parents, for Momtopia club for moms members, registration available onsite.

Spring Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast, High Point
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. sharp
High Point Community Center and Field, 6920 34th Ave. S.W., Seattle
Ages: 11 and younger

Bring your family for a morning of coloring contests, egg hunts and free candy. Children 11 and younger will have an opportunity to search for what the bunny has left for them. Remember to bring your own bags or basket to carry the eggs. The admission is free and the hunt will begin promptly at 10 a.m., rain or shine! (206-684-7422).

Spring Egg Hunt and Pancake Social, Van Asselt
Van Asselt Community Center, 2820 S. Myrtle St., Seattle
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. to Noon
Activity Fees: $1 / person
$5 / family of 5 or more for the Pancake Social

Children 10 years and under join us at Van Asselt Community Center for our annual Spring Egg Hunt. Be on the look out for “SPECIAL EGGS”! They will lead you to extra prizes at the end.Please meet in the gym prior to egg hunt and staff will lead age groups out to field. Pancake Social will immediately follow the egg hunt.

Eggstravaganza, Redmond

Egg hunt, 10 a.m., pancake breakfast served until 11 a.m., kids’ crafts and games, photos with Mr. Bunny, 8-11:30 a.m.; Flashlight Egg Hunt, 8:30 p.m., family dance, 7-10 p.m., Redmond Senior Center, 8703 160th Ave. N.E., Redmond; for morning or evening event: ages 3-12 and seniors $5, adults $7 (425-556-2300).

Spring Egg Hunt & Pancake Breakfast, Southwest
Saturday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. sharp
Southwest Community Center
2801 S.W. Thistle
Seattle, WA 98126

Coloring contests, egg hunt and candy for ages 11 and younger, bring your own bag or basket, 10 a.m., followed by pancake breakfast, 10:30 a.m. Hunt free, breakfast $6/adult, $3/child

Easter, Kids, Rabbit, Bunny, Breakfast, Seattle, Washington, children, activities, Community Center, Pancakes, Egg Hunts, SuperMall, Momtopia, Disney Radio, Alki, March, 2008, Weekend, Events, Sunday