april%202011

sceneTHE

Arts and entertainment for the Eastside

April 2011

Inside scoop: dine | wine | art | fashion | cheap thrills

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THE scene2 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

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the scoop april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 3

THE

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

7 CHEAP THRILLS | Save money, shop second-hand

10 COVER STORY | Living better in green-built homes

13 COMEDY | Felipe Esparza, winner of “Last Comic Standing”

15 FASHION | 5-years-old and looking chic

18 LOUD & ABOUT | Heija’s son gets a “halfro”

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the scoopthe scoop april 2011 || thebellevuescene.com || 3

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

7 CHEAP THRILLS | Save money, shop second-hand

10 COVER STORY | Living better in green-built homesCOVER STORY | Living better in green-built homesCOVER STORY

13 COMEDY | Felipe Esparza, winner of “Last Comic Standing” COMEDY | Felipe Esparza, winner of “Last Comic Standing” COMEDY

15 FASHION | 5-years-old and looking chic

18 LOUD & ABOUT | Heija’s son gets a “halfro”

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scenescenesceneTHE

the editorial note4 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

The Scene is a publication of the Bellevue Reporter. 2700 Richards Rd. Suite 201, Bellevue WA, 98005. 425.391.0363www.thebellevuescene.com

PublisherJanet Taylor

Managing EditorCraig Groshart

Assistant EditorGabrielle Nomura

Contributing WritersNat Levy, Rose Dennis and Heija Nunn

Layout DesignersTek Chai and Gabrielle Nomura

PhotographerChad Coleman

AdvertisingKali Stanger, Sales Manager425.802.7306Advertising 425.453.4270

A division of

You are more powerful than you think

When massive tremors and a catastrophic tsunami devastated thenortheastern coast of Japan on March 11, it was a sobering reminder: So much of the time, humans are powerless in this world. We of Japaneseancestry call it, shikata ga nai (it can’t be helped). Whether it’s the wrath of nature orclimate change, the global economic slump, or the tragedies and cruel misfortunes that happen in our daily lives, like losing a job, we o� en can’t control what happens.

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

To better illustrate what I mean, my grandmother has this “Live with Intention Calendar”hanging on her kitchen wall that I sometimes tease her about because it’s kind of sappy. It combines Asian-looking paintings with inspirational sayings. One of the sayings, however, really deserves some thought: “It’s wonderful to wake up in the morning knowing you’re doing all that you can do.” I invite you all to find out what that’s like, by living purposeful, thoughtful, e� ective lives – whatever that means to you.

Gabrielle Nomura, Assistant [email protected]: @GabrielleKazuko

Follow us on Twitter@bellevuescene

Phot

o by M

ark M

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THE scene april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 5

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Bellevue is a long way from Las Vegas. Strip clubs and casinos don’t line Northeast Eighth or Bellevue Way. But one Las Vegas transplant is enjoying great success here thus far. Munchbar combines a star-studded atmosphere with good food and

amazing deals (who can turn down nickle PBRs?) � e bar can’t be boxed into a simple de� nition; it makes for an outstanding place to watch the big game, a quality a� er-work meet up, or a family dinner. It can be the ultimate destination on a night out, or a rendezvous point the next day, a� er you’ve had a little too much fun. Since its opening on Jan. 28, Munchbar has brought the goods with the likes of Mario Lopez for the opening, former NFL pro-bowl running back Larry Johnson as a DJ, and many more stars. � is wasn’t just a publicity stunt to spur interest in the restaurant’s opening. Johnson will be back, and the bar will hold the o� cial birthday party of Carmen Electra on April 23. � e restaurant’s connection with its Las Vegas location makes these happenings a possibility. “Our Vegas people are really well connected, and they’re able to get some people out

here to promote us and have some fun with it,” says Chef Seis Kamimura, who previously worked for Wolfgang Puck and founded the Boca Hotel in Seattle. � e celebrities aren’t the only � ashy aspects of the bar. � e walls are adorned with artistic gra� ti painting, while a variety of lighting styles and piped in music creates a fun, casual atmosphere. For the drinker, Munchbar has numerous local microbrew options and nearly unlimited beers on tap (don’t forget the nickel PBR deal that actually costs 38 cents because of Washington liquor laws). TVs light up all sides of the bar, including a triumvirate of projector screens hanging from the ceiling. For the discount hounds, Munchbar’s penchant for deals will be a nice incentive. Followers of the place on Facebook and Twitter o� en receive special o� ers, and Kamimura said more deals like the nickel PBRs will roll out in the future. As the weekend approaches, Munchbar matches the desire of the people to get loose and have a little fun. Gone are the tables in the middle of the restaurant, as guest DJs come in for the ultra lounge on � ursday, Friday and Saturday nights. � ose looking for something di� erent can catch the dueling piano bar. But, through all this, Kamimura doesn’t want the food to be overshadowed. At the center of Munchbar’s many munchies is the hangover pizza. Already gaining steam around town and in the social media world, this dish will cure what ails you. A so� and � aky crust covered in cheese, onions, bacon, and the topper, a fried egg, will make even the most hung-over Sunday morning victim journey to the restaurant for the cure. “It’s got bacon and egg and just everything you’d want for breakfast right there,” Kamimura says. “During drinking, a� er drinking, it’s good for any time actually.” But the place is no one-dish pony. Munchbar features fresh seafood dishes such as a ridiculous Dungeness crab salad, extremely popular mahimahi tacos, and down-home stalwarts such as a very � lling bowl of chili, or formidably stacked burger, all topped o� with a silver bucket full of deliciously salted shoe-string french fries. � ese signature dishes are � anked by a supporting cast of appetizers that traverse the appetites of any potential diner. � ough only less than two months in, Kamimura is most encouraged by the diverse clientele, varied menu and events Munchbar has brought in.“We thought it’d be kind of late-20s mid-30s but we’re � nding all di� erent types are coming in depending on the night,” he says.

Munchbar:

6 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

ultimate destination on a night out, or a rendezvous point the next day, a� er you’ve had

Since its opening on Jan. 28, Munchbar has brought the goods with the likes of Mario

here to promote us and have some fun with it,” says Chef Seis Kamimura, who previously worked for

Extra host, actor and TV personality, Mario Lopez being interviewed by Patti Curtis of Team Photogenic at the grand opening of Munchbar and the Dueling Piano Bar in Bellevue.

the bite

Localizing Las Vegas swagger in Bellevue

STORY BY NAT LEVY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEAM PHOTOGENIC

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 7cheap thrills

Secondhand Style Designer brands in used clothing stores

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

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

Re-Dress Consignment Shopwww.redressshop.com1645 140th N.E. #B8, Bellevue | 425-746-7984

Where to go:

Plato’s Closetwww.platoscloset.com14125 N.E. 20th St., Bellevue | 425-603-9494

Your Sister’s Closetwww.yoursisterscloset.com11810 N.E. Eighth St., Bellevue | 425-223-2100

Goodwill Industrieswww.seattlegoodwill.org/shop/stores/bellevue14515 N.E. 20th St., Bellevue | 425-649-2080

When someone compliments her for what she’s wearing, Bellevue fashion

blogger, Rebecca Klein likes being able to say, “Why thank you. It’s vintage.”

� ere are plenty of reasons to compliment vintage and secondhand clothing, whether it’s

for bringing back a winning retro look, having the smarts to save money in the economic slump or for

bene� tting the earth by recycling gently-used garments at consignment stores.

With 1970s chic making a comeback in o� -the-shoulder Dolce & Gabbana peasant blouses and Yves Saint Laurent wide-leg trousers and pantsuits, snagging an up-to-date

look, even from older garments is easy for those who don’t mind si� ing through the racks.

Gucci, St. John, Dior, Coach, Nordstrom and Macy’s are some brands found at the Re-Dress Shop,

a consignment store on 140th Avenue that allows people to bring in their

designer and better-name-brand clothing and receive half of what the item

sells for. � e store gets a little of everyone coming in, from women in their 20s, to businesswomen who come in looking for professional attire. High-end retail outlets such as Neiman Marcus on the Eastside make for even better secondhand shopping in Bellevue, says Re-Dress Shop owner, Kelly Boyd. � e people who shop at the Bravern and Bellevue Collection are o� en the same people who bring in their clothes for consignment.

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

“It’s not a department store where you simply � nd what’s trendy,” Kang says. “Everybody has unique taste and they can express that through what they � nd here. I love that every item

has a unique story.”

Rebecca Klein, Fashion blogger:

eastsidefashion.com

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

Source: Your Sister’s Closet.

Black peep-toe heels: $27.90. Source: Forever 21

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS BY CHAD COLEMAN


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10 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

T he air in David and Millie Huang’s home could turn the most asthmatic, allergic person into a deep breather. Step through the oversized front door and into a totally pristine environment, from the quality of the air to the

home’s green footprint. � e couple used sustainable technology during the construction of their LEED-certi� ed, architectural anomaly in Bellevue’s Greenwich Crest neighborhood. But saving the planet wasn’t their only priority a� er the chemical engineer (Millie) and architect (David) fell in love

at a downtown Seattle bus stop, married and began living happily ever a� er in eco-bliss, hybrid, baby girl and all. “To be honest, I’m not a tree-hugger,” David says. “I’m more on the practical side. For me, it’s about living a balanced lifestyle and saving money as well.” While the building is new, the Huangs only � nished construction and moved in October 2010, the mold and mildew that sneakily � nd their way into so many houses in the soggy Paci� c Northwest, will never touch these sleek, futuristic-looking walls.

Rainwater harvesting.Reused for toilet � ushing,laundry, car washing and irrigation.

Some of the home’s green features:

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

BY GABRIELLE NOMURAPHOTOS BY CHAD COLEMAN

Renewable & sustainable materials Bamboo � ooring, � y ash concrete mix, recycled content countertops and metal roo� ng.

the cover

� is is due in part to the attention the couple has given to sealing gaps between windows and doors to create an “air-tight” house. � e insulation and heat recovery ventilator help too. Fresh air � ows in through a ventilator that has a high e� ciency � lter. Structurally insulated panels mean less energy loss and not having to turn the thermostat up as much. Windows and skylights that bring in natural light mean not having to turn on the lights during the daytime. Dual � ush toilets help save water. � ese systems, just to name a few, work so well that the couple was in the top 10 percent energy e� ciency in their neighborhood this winter. Yet, people o� en think that being environmentally-friendly means going without certain luxuries. In reality, it’s not about sitting in darkness and freezing. It’s about breathing clean air, shrinking the utilities bill, increasing a property value and, as a bonus, doing one’s part to combat climate change. For those who can a� ord it, all it takes is some advanced planning and research. While building a home from scratch is always a giant � nancial undertaking, (especially in this economy), and green technology can cost tens of thousands of dollars or more, the payo� comes later, when one is actually living in the house. “[People say], ‘Is what I have to do to the save the planet going to signi� cantly change my life? � ere is an inherent belief that it’s going to costmore money,” says Matt Muhsam, founder of real estate company, GreenDwellingSeattle, which works with green-builders in Bellevue. It may seem like there aren’t many sustainable houses on the Eastside. � e two most visible ones in Bellevue are arguably David and Millie’s and the “Zero Energy Idea House” on Lake Sammamish Parkway, owned

and built by Donna and Riley Shirey (1,630 square feet and energy bills less than $40 a month). Both couples maintain websites for their homes and have hosted educational, open-to-the public tours. But there are more sustainable houses here than one may realize, whether, like the Huang’s home, it’s certi� ed with a standard such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or an average home that’s been remodeled to include green technology, such as e� cient insulation.

� e Eastside has an unquenchable thirst for living in modern buildings, Muhsam says. � e sustainable technology isn’t the driving factor, however. People are excited about the look of modern architecture, but the homes that happen to have that aesthetic are frequently built green, he says. YS Development in Bellevue is one of the green builders Muhsam has worked with. YS projects include an “Eco-Village” in Redmond certi� ed to 5-Star Built Green & Energy Star Home (a set of standards, like LEED, used in the green-building crowd). � e village will include seven homes, ranging from 1,600-1,800 square footage of space, with attached parking, storage and landscaping included, ranging from $585,000-675,000. YS also has a house on N.E. 39th Street: 5,542 square feet, � ve

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 11

Radiant heat � oor Space heating distributed by a high-e� ciency hydronic radiant � oor system. The � oors have high thermal mass to ensure a steady temperature.

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

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

[ more GREEN HOME on page 12 ]

the cover

bedrooms, four bathrooms, hot tub, sport court and sustainable features. It’s about $2.4 million. Not all environmentally-friendly homes cost so much, though. � e Huangs wouldn’t disclose how much their Green-Concept Home, a year-long project, cost. But their friends are o� en surprised that the couple came out of it under budget. Anyone can spend millions of dollars on a home. But the couple wanted to show this was a reasonable undertaking for a middle-class family. David, a principal with Modus V Studio � rm, who designed the building, and Millie, who did all the interior decorating, worked together to make their goal a reality. He designed the living room and o� ce area to include lo� ed ceilings, creating a comfortable, luxurious amount of space. � e bedroom designs have lower ceilings to provide more intimacy and coziness. Modern materials such as concrete and aluminum are paired throughout the house with bamboo and chic, funky wall paper, with Millie’s artistic vision, giving the home a personality that’s inviting and uncluttered, but not sterile. An even bigger priority, more than the look of the house or the innovative features, was giving the couple’s 8-month-old, Angeline, a home � t for her to grow up in. From good nutrition, saving money and helping the planet, “We want to be an example for her,” says Millie, holding her baby girl’s arms as she hops with glee on the polished concrete � oor (a surface that holds onto heat and saves energy, of course). It won’t be long before Angeline is taking her � rst barefoot steps on her own, following her parents’ example.

Sustainably-built homes

the cover12 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

[ GREEN HOME from page 11 ]

Low VOC paintsLow toxic interior paints for better indoor air quality.

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

Some of the home’s green features:

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

It’s the hair. Black, wild, unruly, a shoulder-length mini-mane one could seemingly get lost in, � rst draws the eye toward comedian Felipe Esparza. But once there, one’s gaze can’t help but notice the

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

scene: You won NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” Tell me about your winnings, the $250,000 prize and an exclusive talent deal with NBC?FE: I donated money to NPR, as well as Homeboy

Industries, which is a gang-prevention organization that helps people stay out of prison. � e deal with NBC means that if say someone from Fox has an idea for a show for me, NBC has � rst look.

scene: What was it like getting to throw the � rst pitch for the Dodgers?FE: Oh man, that was a great pitch. I was so excited for that because I used to work at the stadium making hot dogs.

scene: What’s one show you would kill to be on?FE: “� e O� ce.” I would play a guy that came in to deliver something but he doesn’t know what do, he’s just a weirdo.

scene: Speaking of “� e O� ce,” Craig Robinson who plays Darryl on the show, hosted “Last Comic Standing.”FE: Yeah, he’s a nice guy. We actually did a show together in 2000 in Mesquite, Nevada when he was a nobody. He showed up with a big piano and he’d tell jokes, play the piano and sing.

scene: You’ve been doing standup for 16 years. You’ve gained a lot of material during that time. How do you usually get inspired?FE: From my neighborhood, I’m from Boyle Heights but I now live in Echo Park. From outside and from the news. Boyle Heights used to be a horrible neighborhood, with a lot of gangs and gra� ti, and I have social-issues jokes about it.

scene: How does your Mexican heritage inform your standup?FE: You hear it when I talk. A lot of people say my material is ethnic material. I say it’s just funny. I do appeal to Mexicans and Latinos, though. I make jokes about burglars.

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

scene: What helped you escape that fate?FE: I like making people laugh instead of hurting people.

scene: What’s your guilty pleasure?FE: Man, like everything. I like to eat food. I like cakes. I like pastries. Some people just wanna keep eating hamburgers and pizza. For me, it’s cupcakes and cookies. For my birthday, my girl bought me these blue velvet cupcakes. So good.

scene: What are your pet peeves?FE: I have no pets.

scene: How has gaining national television exposure changed you?FE: It has changed me a lot. I’m more responsible now. I hired a personal assistant. I started a corporation called felipesword.com where I sell merchandise. I’ve grown up a lot. I’m a better comedian.

scene: Ever been to Seattle or Bellevue before? What are your impressions?FE: I went to Seattle to some university where the color is purple and gold. � e people there are kind of like the people in San Francisco but not as trendy and cooler than people in Portland.

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

scene: In part, because of your appearance?FE: No. Because I have that sparkle, baby.

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 13laughs

All eyes on funny Felipe

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

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FELIPESWORLD.COM


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Kanye West’s Twitter account is one of the more heinous examples of self-serving douchebaggery online. Kanye’s followers as of March 14, 2011: 2.7 million. People Kanye follows as of March 14, 2011: zero. � e Louis Vuitton Don is not alone. I’m calling BS on you, Twitter-user-who-purposely-tries-to-have-way-more-followers-than-people-you’re-following. And tweeps, this ego-stroking trend is not just a celebrity thing. I thought the pointless popularity contests of who has the most online friends le� with Myspace, the Internet’s abandoned amusement park. Today, it should be more about quality, rather than quantity. I de-friend old high school classmates and random acquaintances on Facebook all the time. On Twitter, I follow whoever interests with me without keeping tally (I love you, @PNBallet, @LadyGaga and @� eEllenShow!) I am now following 249 people, more than the 147 people are following me. As someone who has le� the popularity contests up to high-school students and Kanye West, that’s good enough for me. Contribute to this anonymous column by e-mailing what irks you to the assistant editor at [email protected].

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FEEL FREE TO VENT HERE

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

In the U.S., Miki House clothing is available at the Corner Shop in Bloomingdale’s New York, at Fred Segal in Los Angeles, and other top-end stores. Devotees of the Japanese brand rave about clothing cuts, design and stitching. � e Bellevue store opening was just another reminder of the fashion capital this city is, not just for adults, but

for mini-hipsters, too. While Bellevue parents favor practicality, comfort (and non-itchiness) over trendiness, Kimberly Wong, owner of Lamb’s Ears European children’s boutique in Bellevue says she’s observed popular fashion choices and trends among parents buying for their kids, such as the layered clothing styles for both boys and girls. An example would be a short-sleeve shirt that looks like it has a long-sleeve shirt underneath it. Even clothing for kids can be pretty chic. Some of the children’s clothing Jolene Larson sees at her corporate Nordstrom job is so cute, she wished it came in women’s sizes. “I love Mini Boden and Ella Moss,” says Larson, a product coordinator for infants and kids clothing who works with buyers and vendors to get products shot and styled for the company’s website. “Just For Wraps is coming out with a fantastic line of Boho styles that I would wear.”

Children’s clothing more closely mimics adult styles as youngsters transition from toddlers to school kids. By the time children are 5, their clothing can be more tailored, less whimsical and more practical. With springtime quickly approaching, every boy needs a pair of cargo shorts and a plaid button-down with a cool screen-print T-shirt, Larson says. Sunglasses and accessories are becoming more popular among kids. She says it’s all about boho dresses, skorts and skirts, swim suit with cover-ups, fedoras, sun glasses and gladiator sandals for girls. When Larson becomes a mom someday, she’s looking forward to dressing her little one “trendy-preppy.” “A mixture of Burberry, Benetton, and Little Ella. Little Ella is Ella Moss’s line for kids and my goodness, it is adorable,” she says.

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

BY GABRIELLE NOMURA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORDSTROM

Children wearing Nordstrom brand Peek…Aren’t You Curious. Nordstrom (100 Bellevue Square) is one of a selection of high-end children’s clothing options, including Miki House (1032 106th Avenue N.E., Suite 123) and Lamb’s Ears (143 106th Ave. N.E.) and Gymboree, (140 Bellevue Square).

{ }“Kid’s clothing more closely mimics adult styles as

youngsters transition from toddlers to school kids.”

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 15the look


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

Dear Unhappy, � ere are times when a lady or gentleman is perfectly justi� ed in lodging a complaint. It is appropriate if you have been treated rudely, are the target of an undeserved a� ront, and when you have received poor service. You have every right to make your displeasure known-not only for the sake of your bruised and hurt feelings, but also in hopes that the unpleasantness will not happen again. It is useless to make a complaint unless it is made to the right person. When receiving inferior service in a restaurant, do not waste your breath complaining directly to the server, who may feel no need or compulsion to amend his behavior. Instead, you should go directly to the manager or owner of the

restaurant. I suggest doing this right away, and in person if possible; otherwise, you can personally call them the next day or put your concerns in a written note, speci� cally describing your reasons for displeasure. Either way, do not make any threats, as you always have the option of taking your business elsewhere. As far as the server goes, your small tip showed your dissatisfaction, without verbally expressing your frustration.

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

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

Needless to say, I am embarrassed and hurt. Your suggestions on how to proceed would be appreciated.– Hopeful For No More Tears

Dear Hopeful , When you feel that you are being treated rudely, you must be sure that you always stand up for yourself and deal with it face-to-face and as privately as possible. I suggest that you talk

to your boss in a one–on-one setting beyond a coworker’s ear. Drinks a� er work are highly not recommended. In a situation where your boss brought you to tears through his or her boorish behavior, you do not need to apologize for your behavior. Instead, you should tell him, forthrightly, “Jerry, our encounter this morning got entirely out of hand. Even if you don’t respect my opinion, I expect you to watch your language in the future.” If you realize that your emotions have gotten the best of you, just as your boss’ anger got the best of him, apologize simply and directly saying, “Jerry, my behavior this morning was inappropriate. I hope you’ll forgive me for creating an awkward situation.” Be sure to make it very clear that his conduct was and is not acceptable. � e

best scenario, when a lady realizes that her emotions may be getting out of hand, excuses herself from the situation-just as a gentleman would do,

should his temper get the best of him. As far as your coworkers go, hopefully they too, will

move on and learn from this unfortunate situation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dear Rose, What does one do when your dinner partner has something stuck between their teeth?– Spinach Stuck Between One’s Incisors

Dear Clean Incisors, You must alert your friend or love interest the minute you see an o� ending le� over morsel. If you are way across the table, hopefully you can gesture to your own teeth when you have eye contact, and he or she will understand the unfortunate situation at hand. If you are

seated close, you can say, “You might want to use your napkin or take a sip of water, as you

have a little bit of spinach stuck to one of your teeth.” If the spinach is still there, your friend should

politely excuse him or herself and go to the restroom, as a lady or gentleman never uses a toothpick openly in the public, let alone at the dinner table.

april 2011 | thebellevuescene.com | 17the voiceWords of wisdom,

etiquette and advice for

the Eastsider

a lady or gentleman never uses a toothpick openly in the public, let alone at the dinner table.

Want to Ask Rose? Send your questions to [email protected]

Dear Hopeful ,

Dear Rose,I want to reward myself with a tattoo

when I graduate from college. My girlfriend thinks my abdomen would

be a good location but I prefer the neck. What are your thoughts?

– Soon to be inked

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

It is useless to make a complaint unless it is made to the right person. When receiving inferior service in a restaurant, do not waste your breath complaining directly to the server, who may feel no need or compulsion to amend his behavior. Instead, you should go directly to the manager or owner of the compulsion to amend his behavior. Instead, you should go directly to the manager or owner of the

restaurant. I suggest doing this right away, and in person if possible; otherwise, you can personally call them the next day or put your concerns in a written note, speci� cally describing your reasons for displeasure. Either way, do not make any threats, as you always have the option of taking your business elsewhere. As far as the server goes, your small tip showed your dissatisfaction, without verbally expressing your frustration.

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

Dear Rose,my immediate boss at our weekly team meeting, where I unfortunately ended up crying in front of everyone. my immediate boss at our weekly team meeting, where I unfortunately ended up crying in front of everyone.

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

compulsion to amend his behavior. Instead, you should go directly to the manager or owner of the restaurant. I suggest doing this right away, and in person if possible; otherwise, you can personally

Ask Rose

from the situation-just as a gentleman would do, should his temper get the best of him. As far as

your coworkers go, hopefully they too, will move on and learn from this unfortunate situation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dear Rose,partner has something stuck between their teeth?– Spinach Stuck Between One’s Incisors

Dear Clean Incisors, friend or love interest the minute you see an o� ending le� over morsel. If you are way across the table, hopefully you can gesture to your own teeth when you have eye contact, and he or she will understand the unfortunate situation at hand. If you are

seated close, you can say, “You might want to use your napkin or take a sip of water, as you

have a little bit of spinach stuck to one of your teeth.” If the spinach is still there, your friend should

15 years experience as a tenured college professor at Edmonds Community College, teaching classes in Fashion, Retail,

should his temper get the best of him. As far as your coworkers go, hopefully they too, will

15 years experience as a tenured college professor at Edmonds have a little bit of spinach stuck to one of your

Dear Inked,I agree with your girlfriend that your tattoo should not

be openly in view. Tattoos are o� en selected for symbolic and personal reasons. Down the road, your current tattoo design may not be as important to you. Having your tattoo hidden may the best decision for you until your reach your career potential and are not concerned how others perceive you. You may also consider waiting a few months to think

on your design. Once a tattoo is inked on your skin, removal is expensive and painful.

April An Eastsider’s guideApril 1Free First Friday LectureJoin San Francisco-based artist Wanxin Zhang whose exhibit “A 10-Year Survey” featuring larger-than-life ceramic sculptures is on view at BAM. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free, but seating is limited. RSVP at 425-519-0770.

April 1,3,7,9Don GiovanniDrama and comedy collide as Seattle Opera explores the various incarnations of opera’s most famous lead-ing man on his day of reckoning in the new Seattle Opera Young Artists Program production of Mozart and da Ponte’s immortal Don Giovanni. Seattle Opera ticket o� ce, 206-389-7676.

April 29-May 1Cinderella� e whole family will enjoy this favorite classic children’s story that is � lled with music and dance. Bellevue Youth � eatre. Info at 425-452-7155.

All monthThe Mysterious Con-tent of SoftnessBringing together 11 national and international artists, � e Mysterious Content of So� ness is an exploration of the trans-formative power of � ber and its connection to the human body. � e very nature of � ber – sometimes so� and � exible, while at other

times rough and rigid – carries with it a unique meta-phor for what it means to be human. � rough June 26 at the Bellevue Arts Museum, Bellevue Arts Museum, 510 Bellevue Way N.E., 425- 519-0770.

All monthMaster of Deception –The Furniture ofJohn CederquistReality and illusion brilliantly merge in John Cederquist’s � ne art furniture. Free-standing cabinets in the shape of kimonos and other two- and three-dimensional works are infused with vivid imagery that con-

stantly shi� s viewpoints without warning or logic. Flat surfaces come to life and form no longer follows func-tion. � rough May 15 at the Bellevue Arts Museum, 510 Bellevue Way N.E., 425- 519-0770.

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

All monthIt’s a Small WorldAfter AllFeatures inspired pho-tography from Nicolette Jahnke’s travels around the globe. An eclectic mix of love shots, natural scenes and wildlife, Jahke’s photographs showcase her travels bril-liantly. Jahnke’s exhibit will be shown at Pogacha of Issaquah.

et cetera18 | thebellevuescene.com | april 2011

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

good hair days. My three kids inherited varying degrees of curls, yet

hair care at our house verges on benign neglect. In August, immediately a� er his ritual back-to-school head shearing, my middle son, 12-year-old Venom Pen, decided to test the outer limits of his hair’s pouf by grow-ing an afro, or as I more accurately call it, a “halfro.” In no time at all he was attracting attention and using a pick to shape his hair into a perfect circle each morning. As his hair grew, so did his popularity. Every day there were comments, questions, pats and pulls. Eventually his afro reached nearly four inches in length and Venom

Pen’s hair entered the room before he did. When Lacrosse season started he came back from practices with mangled and matted hair. � en one day he asked for a new helmet, “Be-cause I grew out of mine.” Right.

We did what any parents would do when faced with a choice between a $215 helmet and a $13 haircut. We used mind control, subterfuge and bribes to guide Venom Pen to his own spontaneous decision to get a haircut. Luckily, this coincided with my own exciting discovery; Standing on Top, a new Barber Shop in Factoria Mall, in-between Target and KidsQuest Children’s Museum. A bright, open and friendly place with six chairs and four � at screen televisions, Standing on Top is the � rst Bellevue store in a 17-year Northwest history for owner Mike Daniels whose goal is to combine a traditional barber shop experience with modern cuts and his passion for personal, friendly service.

Curly hair requires a di� erent skill set, so I always look for someone with curly hair or ask about experience

when I get my own hair cut. Mike has hair like Venom Pen’s but was quick to point out that his barbers cut hair, ALL hair. During our visit we met Melvin, whose smile never wavered as he snipped, shaved (yeah, they do straight edge too) and clipped his way through three di� erent customers pausing to greet the steady stream of visitors who stopped in just to say hi. Sistafoo played with Daniels’ daughter while I chatted with his wife about schools and boys.

Meanwhile, Mike Daniels was busy transforming Venom Pen’s hair, treating him like a king while he gave

him a head � t for a helmet. Two weeks later V.P. is still “Standing on Top.”

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 � ickering glow of your computer screen at her blog � e Worst Mother in the World (www.Heija.com).

A little o� the top

HEIJA NUNN

loud &

abo

ut

‘Venom Pen’ gets his ‘halfro’.

Lauren DiCioccio’s ‘House of Cards’

The Towel Chair

Mediteranean sunset too

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