You can't help but think of pounds of chocolate when you think of Valentine's Day. And no, we are not referring to the pounds that may start to accumulate on your thighs. After all, all calories are free on holidays, right? We are referring to those neatly packaged, overly-decadent, edible works of art that give us the warm fuzzies all over.
We've decided that the best cure for our cravings is to go on a Seattle chocolate tour. Here are just a few of the locations we'll be visiting...
Ahhh, Valentine's Day. For some, this can be a very stressful day, especially when it comes to planning the perfect date. But remember, even if you don't have a significant other in your life at the moment, there is no reason you can't grab someone you love like a best friend or family member and hit the town running.
If you are in the Seattle area, check out these special events happening at local restaurants.
Acalia (Feb 13) Special: Join us on this Beautiful Evening and Enjoy a Unique Menu Artistically Paired with Magnificent Wines!
BluWater Bistro (Feb 11-Feb 14) Special: Offering a 6 oz Lobster Tail and 6 oz Filet Mignon for $26.99.
Palace Ballroom (Feb 13) Special: Speak the language of amore while enjoying a sumptuous Italian dinner with your valentine. This sultry event will take place at the Palace Ballroom. 7pm cocktail hour; 8pm seated dinner service begins. This event is 21 and over. Tickets are $110 per person
Ponti Seafood Grill Special: Featuring a special Valentine's Day Menu with 3-courses served.
Six Seven Restaurant & Lounge (All weekend) Special: Take your lover to The Edge this Valentine’s Day, for our three course gourmet lover’s dinner for two on Friday and Saturday night for $90.00 per couple, or Valentine’s Day dinner on Sunday 2/14 offering six delectable courses at $75.00 per person. In addition, Sunday’s “Sweet Heart” Brunch will focus on an extravagant dessert display and will be offered at $35.00 per person.
Free Webinar Announcement: Planning in a Tough Economy
Webinar Annoucement! Date: January 27, 10 a.m. Pacific Speaker: Joan Eisenstodt Topic: Event Planning in a Tough Economy With companies cutting budgets and association attendance down, meeting planners must be more creative—with less—in these cash-strapped times. See how you can keep your head above water. Cost: It's Free, Register Here
What You'll Learn:
In today’s economy you need to plan like your job depends on it, because more than ever, it does! Learn ways to trim your budget without dampening the attendee experience, and how to show the savings you gained to the organization you plan for. Just by employing a few simple cost-cutting strategies from this webinar, you can provide a quality meeting without breaking the bank.
Some of the key points covered in this webinar will include the following :
How far out to plan--advantages and disadvantages
How CVBs can create efficiencies, supply free services and help you negotiate
How to staff your meeting to create maximum cost-effectiveness
In an article posted today on Yahoo about the colleges that provide the best education for the lease amount of cost, the University of Washington finds itself ranked in the top 10. See who else made the list...
Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,895 SAT: 75 percent scored 600 or higher on verbal/math; ACT: 82 percent scored 24 or higher Student/Faculty Ratio: 14 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 75 percent/88 percent Total In-State Cost: $15,296 Total Out-of-State Cost: $33,184 Average Debt at Graduation: $14,936
Chapel Hill, a consistent winner of Kiplinger's top honors, maintains its lofty spot in part for its ability to attract and keep highflying students. This year, it fielded more than 23,000 applications and admitted about 7,400, giving it a competitive 32 percent admission rate.
2. University of Florida
Undergraduate Enrollment: 34,654 SAT: 65 percent; ACT: 73 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 20 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 54 percent/81 percent Total In-State Cost: $12,863 Total Out-of-State Cost: $32,234 Average Debt at Graduation: $15,318
Low annual in-state costs and diverse academic programs are just a few reasons why this school ranks in the top of our list. On campus, students can find cutting-edge research facilities, ten libraries and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (pictured right), home of the Florida Gators.
3. University of Virginia
Undergraduate Enrollment: 15,208 SAT: 78 percent; ACT: 83 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 15 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 85 percent/93 percent Total In-State Cost: $19,312 Total Out-of-State Cost: $41,312 Average Debt at Graduation: $19,016
Considered a public Ivy League school, the University of Virginia doesn't come with a top-tier price tag for in-state students with financial need. It charges them, on average, less than $5,000.
4. College of William and Mary (Va.)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,850 SAT: 84 percent; ACT: 83 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 11 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 84 percent/92 percent Total In-State Cost: $20,566 Total Out-of-State Cost: $40,358 Average Debt at Graduation: $12,859
This public school, which is the second oldest college in the U.S., looks and feels like an elite Ivy League institution. It has one of the lowest student-faculty ratios on our list and one the highest percentages of students who scored 600 or higher on the verbal and math SATs.
5. Binghamton University (SUNY)
Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,821 SAT: 66 percent; ACT: 83 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 20 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 69 percent/80 percent Total In-State Cost: $18,175 Total Out-of-State Cost: $26,075 Average Debt at Graduation: $14,541
Binghamton charges $26,075 a year to students who are not New York residents -- only one-third more than the in-state price. The school's large number of international students and its dual-degree programs with universities in Mexico, Russia and Turkey give the term out of state new meaning; but Binghamton's strong academics and affordable price attract interest from students across the U.S. as well.
6. University of Georgia
Undergraduate Enrollment: 25,467 SAT: 58 percent; ACT: 62 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 18 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 51 percent/80 percent Total In-State Cost: $16,636 Total Out-of-State Cost: $34,846 Average Debt at Graduation: $14,343
Most in-state students qualify for the merit-based HOPE scholarship, which covers tuition and mandatory fees -- making the school a great value for Georgia residents. University of Georgia is the nation's first state-chartered university, and recently it opened the world's first stand-alone academic school devoted specifically to the study of ecology. It also is home to Georgia's State Botanical Garden, State Museum of Art and State Museum of Natural History.
7. University of Washington
Undergraduate Enrollment: 29,397 SAT: 48 percent; ACT: 63 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 11 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 51 percent/77 percent Total In-State Cost: $17,676 Total Out-of-State Cost: $34,351 Average Debt at Graduation: $16,800
One of the oldest public universities on the West Coast, this top research institution draws strong students from around the world to its Seattle-based campus, where the 11 to 1 student-faculty ratio gives them plenty of access to professors who include Nobel Prize winners and MacArthur Foundation award recipients.
8. University of Maryland, College Park
Undergraduate Enrollment: 26,431 SAT: 66 percent; ACT: 76 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 18 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 63 percent/82 percent Total In-State Cost: $18,455 Total Out-of-State Cost: $34,392 Average Debt at Graduation: $20,091
University of Maryland, known for its engineering, journalism and computer-science programs, has risen to our top ten by keeping in-state costs virtually unchanged while improving on quality, especially in its graduation rates. Maryland also provides need-based financial aid to 50 percent of its students.
9. SUNY Geneseo
Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,451 SAT: 80 percent; ACT: 87 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 19 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 58 percent/78 percent Total In-State Cost: $17,176 Total Out-of-State Cost: $25,076 Average Debt at Graduation: $18,700
Like the other State University of New York school on our list (Binghamton), SUNY Geneseo is a bargain for out-of-state students. Out-of-state costs are about $7,000 higher than in-state costs. Many public schools charge non-residents double the amount residents pay.
10. North Carolina State University
Undergraduate Enrollment: 24,741 SAT: 36 percent; ACT: 56 percent Student/Faculty Ratio: 16 Graduation Rate 4-yr./6-yr.: 37 percent/70 percent Total In-State Cost: $14,390 Total Out-of-State Cost: $26,875 Average Debt at Graduation: $14,996
This large university comprises ten colleges in disciplines including textiles, design, agriculture and veterinary medicine. At $14,390, its annual in-state costs are below the average ($15,213) for four-year public institutions and second-lowest in our top ten, after the University of Florida. NC State's relatively low out-of-state sticker price, $26,875, makes it number 9 for out-of-state value.
Package Details: We'll pamper you and that special someone. Accommodations for two. Champagne and Truffles. Etherea Spa.Salon Gift Box. Enjoy complimentary Full American breakfast served in the comfort of your room.
The Edgewater Hotel Seattle: Snuggle & Smooch - Seattle Romance Package Package Details: For Valentine's Day (and all of February 2010) come to The Edgewater for a steamy, sultry one-night escape with our newly redesigned romance package – Snuggle & Smooch. Start your overnight love-fest with chocolate dipped strawberries delivered to your room and hand made by our in-house pastry chef. With an exclusive Romance Box made especially for The Edgewater by Bumble B Design your romantic getaway is just a click away! Get down and chocolatey with chocolate body frosting, or indulge with ylang ylang and ginger lotion – perfect for a sensuous massage! To keep things easy, your overnight parking is also included!
Package Details: The ultimate in "do not disturb" getaways...There's just something about a luxurious hotel room that makes whispered sweet nothings sound even sweeter. Add a touch of elegance, a hint of indulgence, and you've got the makings for our Romance Package.
Package Details: Let the romance begin! Indulge yourself with our Homewood Suites Romance Package. Check-in to one of our spacious suites and relax in a comfortable bath robe - yours to keep - while enjoying a luscious box of assorted fine chocolates. There's no need to rush. Plan to sleep in late and feast on our delicious complimentary Suite Start® hot breakfast. And to top it all off, we'll arrange for a late check-out at 1:00pm.
Package Details: Accommodations for two at our hotel in downtown Seattle. $50 dining credit in Sazerac restaurant, offering serious food and damn good fun. Complimentary valet parking.
Package Details: Available February 1st through February 28, 2010. Deluxe or Suite Accommodations. Bottle of Sparkling Wine or Cider and chocolates upon check-in. Full American Breakfast for Two. Valet Parking.
W Hotel Seattle: WHO PUTS YOU IN THE MOOD THIS VALENTINES DAY?
Package Details: Get away with your special someone for a provocative escape at W Seattle this Valentine's Day Weekend. Your racy rendezvous will include:
Tickle Me Intimacy Lovekit by Booty Parlor
Exclusive Jimmyjane SPIN ME game, Feather Tickler and Seduction Sash
You might hear about commerical occupancy rates being almost as low as they were in the 1970's in Seattle, but this is not your Mother's Seattle! Welcome to Seattle 2009-10. Populated by the up and coming youth based executives literally perched on the precipice, occupancy in Metropolitan Seattle is more residential driven, than at any time in it's history. This is a city with a view if you are lucky enough to find one similar to any of those above. Wait - we're not done! More great news? At no other time, have there been more options for you to live this life, than you can right now. With it being a buyers market - what are you waiting for? Always wanted to step up to the high life with a view?
Cultural options in Downtown Seattle are as diverse and available as any major city of it's type. Seattle boasts an opera, a ballet, as well as a symphony orchestra and concert hall. Add to that a plethora of top end restaurants, theaters and museums - all easy to walk to if you live in the metropolitan area. Not enough? Then there is probably no need to also mention that this network of neighborhoods linked together from First Hill to Capital Hill to Queen Anne - provide you with some of the most charming shops to be found anywhere. Welcome to Metropolitan Seattle, your oyster . . and what type of oyster can we serve you?
This happens only twice a year - once in the Spring and once in the Fall. Contact the Spa of your choice for the treatments and times available for Spa Week. Book now - limited time only. For more information about Spaahh at Hotel 1000 visit banquetevent.com
We rarely write about our personal lives on this blog, but there comes a time when you just need to toot your own horn once in a while. At B&E, we are much more than co-workers, we are a family. Beyond what we do in the office, we care about each other's lives, and support each other through the highs and lows of everyday life. Today I am happy to report one of those highs.
Alexis Pellegrini, who has worked for B&E for seven years, and her husband Peter, recently turned their 8 year dream into a reality. Peter, an orthodontist, opened his first solo practice in Everett, WA on August 3rd. We've watched the two of them stay focused as Peter trekked through four years of dental school at the University of Washington, and three more years for his orthodontic residency at Oregon Health Science University.
Now they begin a new chapter as business owners of a beautiful practice in Everett. Alexis, of course, remains a part of our B&E team, and it has been great to see how the skills she has learned working with us have been able to help develop Dr. Pellegrini's web and marketing materials.
We wish them many years of success!
Learn more about Dr. Pellegrini at www.everettbraces.com
At 47 PLUS years old, and still cruising around Seattle, the Monorail was the image of what was to be, or in this case what not to be. . . In honor of the concept and the hope it carried, we are bringing you other monorails from across various countries. The Cabintaxi German of 1973 is based on the start of the monorails already tested. Then next to that is the black and white monorail that for most people in the US, was indeed the "future" - the Disneyland Monorail. Thanks to Popular Mechanics we found some great concepts fully intended to eventually carry passengers across the entire country - with comfort, speed and ease. . Italy had their own concept as well. However, for those of us from this region, our heart still belongs to the Monorail running through EMP, from Seattle Center to the Westlake Mall. Not too bad for a soon to be antique - isn't that what it becomes when it officially hits "50"? If you haven't been up on the Monorail lately it is still worthy and what a view - a great way to get the overview of downtown Seattle. Here's hoping the City doesn't try to sell it on eBay.
Recently we celebrated a special occasion at what turned out to be an incredible venue - Carnegie's in Ballard on Market Street. We knew we could anticipate a good evening, however they exceeded any of our expectations in, atmosphere and cuisine. The service was absolutely impeccable.
If you have not had the good fortune to step into Carnegies, do yourself this favor and put them on your list of "must dos". For those of you familiar with Ballard, you will recognize it immediately as the 100 plus year old building given to the City by Carnegies as a library. Over the years, it has been home to various types of businesses and currently the grandnous of the main floor is both a full service restaurant as well as a venue you can reserve for a special event. This is one of those venues that can be setup for so many types of arrangements, as it has three main distinct areas that work well together as one total venue, or can be setup for individual requirements. We had our event in the Eastroom, while the Westroom catered to their restaurant patrons. We found one exceptional compliment to Carnegie's, as at no time were we ever aware of their restaurant patrons, due to the uniqueness of the room setups and the beautiful curved glass walls. The food itself was exceptional from the Coq Au Vin, to the Rack of Lamb Dijonaise. Bon Appetit!
More about the WSCFF Burn Foundation: The WSCFF Burn Foundation was founded in 1987 and is a 501(c)(3) charity to provide funding for burn research and burn prevention education. The WSCFF Burn Foundation is a separate organization from the WSCFF Benevolent Fund and operates as an independent registered charity. The foundation is operated solely by Washington State professional firefighters.
Funding is primarily raised by sales of an annual fire fighters calendar. Several stores throughout Washington State carry the calendar.
Donations from the foundation are then disbursed via grants after approval from the board of trustees. If you need information on WSCFF Burn Foundation grants, please contact them.
This past April Seattle held the annual Seattle Dog Show. It is rumored Seattle has more dogs than children, so we felt we should provide all of the animal lovers and more especially the dog lovers a look at some of the nicely coif-'furred' entrants this Spring.
This is a great event to attend and if you have a dog, are even considering getting a dog, or even need to educate yourself about particular breeds, this is a show you should jot down on your calendar. Recently in the news we have had so many negative images of these incredible friends of ours, we wanted to persuade everyone to see the positive in our "best friends."
You can also watch many of these amazing creatures do field trials and actually some of them, a newer event, dance with their owners. Pet supplies abound, and so does an entire floor of various breeds animal rescue groups.
We indulged ourselves with a couple of our favorite breeds - one of which is the Scottish Terrier. In honor of one of the best friends we knew, who recently passed away, we bring this glimpse into the well-groomed world of the show dog. Aggie this is for you and we hope you are enjoying it. Aggie was a loving Scottish Terrier owned by our company President, Marion Clifton.
In another look at our series of great things to do locally, try a little variety to perk things up. Everybody loves the incredible water we find ourselves surrounded by in the area. From Pierce to Snohomish County, we have it all and Argosy Cruises knows how to take you to just about every part of it. They say getting there is half the fun and if you add It's A Mystery to the Cruise or An Esp Experience, it takes on a whole new life of it's own. There is another option for you as you head out to the Puget Sound and that is Waterways Cruises. They offer several key cruise options so be sure and check them out for a customize cruise to fit exactly what your timeframe needs. Need to create a meeting environment offering some presentation options, then look no further than the Lincoln Cinemas in Bellevue. Don't forget to ask for the popcorn and candy concessions before the meeting starts!
As we continue our weekly feature on the local hotspots in the Seattle area we simply adore, we move slightly south to the area of Tacoma, Washington. Often an overlooked city in the shadow of its northern neighbor, Tacoma sits on the shores of the Puget Sound just 30 minutes south of Seattle.This is a city going through a renaissance. It is an exciting place to be with new restaurants and new hotels coming in to the area. Tacoma is actually the city with the perfect view of Mount Rainier, just ask anyone who has stayed or lived there. Here are a couple of fabulous places to stay and or have your meeting. We cannot speak of Tacoma without mentioning the Tacoma Dome, a major concert venue in this area, in addition to many many more fine restaurants such as the Pacific Grill. Be sure and stop in at the BITE Restaurant right at the Hotel Murano.
For our Seattle based event planners, we will be starting a new weekly feature to help you get to know your city better. Check back every Thursday for more local ideas, tips, and advice. Just look for the "We Love _____" icon on each weekly post for local guides and resources.
Budgets may be a little tighter these days, but everyone needs a vacation right? If you are like us and are craving a little R&R these days, consider some hotel and resort options just around the corner. Staycations are a great way to take advantage of the utterly fantastic hotels and resorts in your neighborhood. After all, people come from afar to stay at some of the area's hottest and luxury hotels, and because you live within driving distance, you'll take enjoy the ritz and glam of a four star hotel, but without the cost of airfare, rental cars, and other travel expenses. So this winter and spring, do what we do, and plan your very own staycation. Here are some of our favorite hotspots you should check out.
Looking for a fun activity this weekend? Head over to the Parlor in Bellevue, WA for some comedy and laughs with Mark Curry from "Hanging With Mr. Cooper." Plus mark your calendars for more activities coming up including comedy shows, dualing piano shows, and even a Super Bowl Party this weekend.
The Parlor is also great for large groups. The Parlor Collection provides the right space for any event. Whether you’re looking for a fun spot to host an after-work gathering, a corporate team building event, a celebratory product launch, or a private party, The Parlor Collection has what you’re looking for. Private executive suites, semi-private ultra lounges, or select sections of billiards tables are available. From casual to elegant catering and exceptional first-class service, your guests will enjoy an environment like no other.
REMINDER! Meeting Planners Are from Mars, Speakers Are from Venus!
Comet relays this message from Santa. This meeting of planners and speakers is a step towards world peace. This is one of his most special gifts that took extreme care to organize. Santa asks you to picture the following scenarios:
The speaker demanded two wireless mics and a sound check 1.5 hours before the program. That’s an extra $150 per wireless microphone, plus we now need to have the AV guy to set it up which is $60 an hour. Our other speakers don’t have these requests. She also needs help to set up. Next, she will ask us to polish her tiara. What’s up with her?
Your out of town speaker, keeps asking you questions about the audience he will be addressing in his full day customer service program. It is annoying. We hire him to do his program, not to evaluate the personalities of everyone here. I feel like I am doing more work sharing with them, than he is doing. Argh!
Do you ever wonder why your speakers are adamant about trivial details? This is the time to ask professional speakers “why?” Plus this is a chance to share with your speakers the scope of your job as a planner and how the speaker fits into the big picture.
This is first time planners and speakers get to hash out their confusion about each other’s job and how to make each other look great for the client.
Meeting Planners Are from Mars, Speakers Are from Venus! An event hosted by NSA Northwest
Like Fred and Ginger, Franklin and Eleanor, even Kermit and Miss Piggy, Meeting Planners and Speakers have a classic relationship but frequently “Just don’t get it!” when working together. Like many a romance, we often fail to ask important questions at the beginning and assume we know each others’ needs, often resulting in a Ricky and Lucy explosion on Event Day: Meeting Planner: "Speaker! You got some splainin’ to do.” Speaker: " Waaaaaaah!”
And vice-versa. Truthfully, both Meeting Planners and Speakers want the same thing: a successful event with raves from audience members and clients requesting encores. Here’s how we’ll get it every time!
Within three hours, we’ll address the essentials of this partnership, and explode the myths on both sides of the speaker hiring question. This is an opportunity for professionals on both sides of the contract to get instant clarity and an edge over their competitors. In both panel and town hall formats we’ll address such burning issues as:
Meeting Planners: What are your responsibilities as a meeting planner? Where does a speaker rank in the hierarchy of venue, food, etc? What makes an ideal speaker?
Speakers: Which information is vital to get from the planner? Why floor plan, seating arrangements and food service affects your presentation. How other activities and topics in the schedule affect your program.
In addition to our discussions, we’ll have the opportunity for a few speakers to do a mini-showcase and get immediate feedback from people with the power to hire. Both Mars and Venus will leave with immediately applicable tools as the planets spin once again in sync—-and accomplish their shared goal of a memorable and compelling meeting for every audience, every time. That’s amore!
Members $30 Affiliates $45 First Time $40 Guests $75 Meeting Planners $20
Looking for some REAL holiday inspiration for yourself, your family or even your staff? Look no further - here are some GREAT ideas and places to go - don't worry - all you need to do is call, reserve your space, or show and the inspiration will be there waiting for you! Here are a few festive ideas! Have fun!
OPTION 1: Make a splash in your scrapbook with a family vacation at Great Wolf Lodge, conveniently located in Centralia, Washington between Seattle and Portland. And their Conference Center is also available for corporate and social functions for groups from 8 to 800.
OPTION 2: Get your tickets now for a Seattle tradition. The ACT's 33rd Annual production of A Christmas Carol is playing now. Calll the ticket office at (206) 292-7676. Special group prices for parties of 20 or more are available. Save up to 25%. Call (253) 839-4204 to book now!
OPTION 3: The Argosy Christmas Ship™ festival is a holiday celebration that has been a Northwest tradition for 59 years. Its main purpose is to bring communities together to celebrate the holiday season. Click here to watch a video.
OPTION 4: Book a table for fun, laughs and jaw-dropping acrobatics at Teatro Zinzanni. If this is your first time visiting, you are in for a real treat!
The Seattle Hotel Association's (SHA) 59-member hotels is proud to announce that H.S. Wright III and Kate Janeway are the honorees of its 12th annual fundraising dinner and gala auction, the "Evening of Hope." The highly anticipated gala will once again raise funds for Plymouth Housing Group, which provides supportive housing for more than 1000 individuals who would otherwise be homeless in downtown Seattle. The event will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel.
Learn more about this great cause and you can attend by clicking here.
Local chefs and food connoisseurs have worked their magic to create exquisite tastes, seasonings and culinary delights that make excellent gifts this holiday. Here are two of our local favorites...
From Volterra in Ballard comes their signature fennel salt and porcini salt, sure to add that extra flair and pizazz to your dishes. Volterra Fennel Salt was launched at the 2006 Winter Fancy Food Show and became an overnight success. After making its red carpet debut in the celebrity gift bags at the Oscars “Night of 100 Stars” gala, it has become wildly popular with celebrities and was even been featured on the set of the “Desperate Housewives”. The boldly flavored Fennel Salt was inspired by Chef Don Curtiss’ travels through Italy. It’s made with freshly toasted, organic fennel seed, organic orange peel, and other traditional flavors of the Italian peninsula. Chef Curtiss personally makes every batch of Fennel Salt to ensure the highest quality. Recreate Volterra’s bread service using Volterra Extra Virgin Olive oil sprinkled with Fennel Salt. It’s a great all purpose seasoning and is particularly delicious in meat and seafood dishes, potatoes and eggs.
The Twelve Rubs of Christmas from Tom Douglas is also on our list this year. What’s more welcome, more delicious, and more exciting than a partridge in a pear tree? A handsome gift box of Tom Douglas Rub with Love Spice Rubs will delight everyone on your holiday list! All 12 of our spice rubs are included in this spectacular gift, from the brown sugar and sweet paprika notes of our best selling Salmon Rub to the smoky chiles, toasted sesame, and dried seaweed tang of Spicy Tokyo Rub to the ultimate BBQ flavors of cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne in our Pork Rub. Just pat these spice rubs on salmon, shrimp, steak, burgers, Portobello mushrooms, or baby back ribs- in fact, just about any meat, fish or vegetable you can think of. Sprinkle the rubs into stews, soups, and stir fries, mix up a quick sour cream dipping sauce, or toss some into your scrambled eggs. Spice up the holiday season for yourself, your family and friends.
Nothing can take you away from the stresses of life like the movies can. That's why with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday approaching, Hollywood gives us a little escape in the form of blockbusters. Here's the buzz on the season's most talked about feature films...
Twilight
The Plot: In her new town of Forks, Washington, misfit teenager Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) falls for her alluring and mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). As it turns out, Edward belongs to a lineage of vampires, although he doesn't fit the typical vampire mold. As their passion reaches dizzying heights, can Edward resist his natural urges, and will he be able to defend Bella from his family members who have come for her? Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Four Christmases
The Plot: A comedy about a married couple (Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn) from two divorced families who are tasked with attending four Christmas Day celebrations.
Australia
The Plot: Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat (Nicole Kidman) who inherits a sprawling ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man (Hugh Jackman) in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot. As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
The Day The Earth Stood Still
The Plot: Aliens land on Earth with an important message for its citizens. A remake of the classic 1951 sci-fi film directed by Robert Wise.
Seven Pounds
The Plot: A professional man (Will Smith) who is close to suicide for his role in an auto accident that claimed the lives of seven people finds a reason to live, and to atone, when he falls for a woman (Rosario Dawson) who wants to help him deal with his grief. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Yes Man
The Plot: What happens when you agree with everyone and say "yes" to everything? Carl (Jim Carrey) is about to find out when he chooses to become overly agreeable for an entire year. Our Pick!
Watch the trailer...
Revolutionary Road
The Plot: A young couple (Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio) raising a family in a Connecticut suburb during the mid-1950s look to break free from their frustratingly mediocre lives.
Valkyrie
The Plot: Near the end of WWII, Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise) leads to group of fellow German army colonels in an attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler; the event would later be called the July 20 Plot of 1944.
Marley & Me
The Plot: An impossibly cute, but impossible-to-live-with yellow Labrador retriever named Marley teaches his newlywed owners (Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson) a thing or two about patience and parenthood.
Last Chance Harvey
The Plot: During a weekend in which Harvey Shine (Dustin Hoffman) travels to London for his daughter's wedding, her first learns that he's lost his job back in New York, then he discovers he won't be the man giving away the bride at the ceremony. The one good thing that happens -- his meeting Kate (Emma Thompson), a prickly but nevertheless enchanting Londoner -- might be the beginning of some much-needed change in Harvey's life. Our Pick! Watch the trailer...
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Plot: Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) was born under unusual circumstances. As everyone around him grew older, he aged backwards, making the challenges of life such as creating friendships, finding a job and falling in love all the more difficult and heartbreaking. Our Pick!
Rainier Brewing Company (1884 - 1999) was a Seattle, Washington, company that brewed Rainier Beer, a popular brand in the Pacific Northwest. Although Rainier was founded in 1884, the Seattle site had been brewing beer since 1878. While the beer enjoys near iconic status, it is no longer brewed in Seattle, nor is the company owned locally. In the late 1990s, the company was sold to Stroh's, then to Pabst, though Miller contract brews most of Pabst's beers. The brewery was closed by Pabst in 1999 and sold.
Although beer is no longer brewed there, the brewery itself is still a fixture in the south end of town, adjacent to I-5 just north of the Spokane Street Viaduct. In fact, as our business sits in the heart of West Seattle, we pass by the building each morning. The plant is now used by Tully's Coffee to roast beans. The trademark red neon R that sat atop the building has been replaced with a green T for the new occupant. But if you are ever feeling a little nostalgic, the neon R is now in the collection of Seattle's Museum of History and Industry.
Thanksgiving Dinner From Someone Else's Kitchen Tastes Just As Good
Fabulous home-cooked feasts are a traditional part of Thanksgiving. They can also be a lot of work and a lot of stress. If you'd rather devote your energy to quality time with friends and family, dining out on Thanksgiving Day is a perfectly fine alternative. Since this has become a popular option, reservations are usually required. These resources will help you find out which Puget Sound area restaurants will be serving dinner on Thanksgiving.
Open Table - this online restaurant reservation services has a special section devoted to restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving
The Seattle Times - lists menu items, restaurant hours, and price range
CitySearch Seattle - in addition to listing open restaurants, this site lists Thanksgiving catering and takeout options
Gayot.com - this restaurant review web site provides a list of Thanksgiving dining options as well as links for reservations
Local Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner...
0/8 Seafood Grill & Twisted Cork Wine Bar Bellevue, WA Chef Dan is offering a Thanksgiving buffet of traditional fare as well as fresh local seafood. Cost: $38.95/adult, $16.95/child 5-12, free for children under 5 w/ an adult Time: Noon to 7 p.m. Reservations highly recommended
Andaluca Seattle in the Mayflower Park Hotel Offering the regular menu. Time: 3-9 p.m. Reservation recommended.
Brasserie Margaux Belltown A Thanksgiving Day buffet. Time: 1-8 p.m. Cost: $39/adult, $14.95/child under 12). Included validated parking.
Chandler's Crabhouse Lake Union Offering a 4-course dinner including traditional roast turkey, herb roasted prime rib, or fresh seafood delicacies. Cost: $44.95 Reservations Recommended
Clinkerdagger Spokane, WA Offering our regular dinner menu along with a featured Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner. Time: 3:30-8 p.m. Reservations Recommended
Cutter's Bayhouse Seattle, WA Offering a large variety of our most popular items as well as traditional Thanksgiving Day dinners. Time: Noon - 8 p.m. Reservations Recommended
Daniel's Broiler Lake Union, Bellevue Place and Leschi Marina Offer a delicious, 4-course dinner including traditional roast turkey or USDA Prime beef. Cost: $49.95
Maggiano's Little Italy Bellevue Celebrate Thanksgiving with your family & friends! Their special menu includes roast turkey, country style ham, garlic mashed potatoes, pumpkin praline cheesecake, & more! Cost: $34.95 per person (adults) and $16.95 per child. Carry out and home delivery also available.
McCormick & Schmick's Offering a limited menu, incl. a traditional turkey dinner, prime rib, salmon, crab, and lamb chops. Reservations Recommended
Ponti Seafood Grill Seattle, WA Join us for a traditional 3-course menu featuring grilled salmon, prime rib, and turkey. Cost: $39/adult, $15/child Time: 1-8 p.m.
Toscano Bellevue Offering a delicious Thanksgiving buffet with over 100 items! Cost:$39/adult, $20/child 6-12
Get ready for a day of turkey day gorging with the annual Turkey Trot fun walk. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot held November 16, will not only benefit your waistline, but also the Hopelink organization that provides emergency services for low-income families in east and north King County during the winter months when they faces added pressures such as higher home heating costs and additional food needs. Hopelink anticipates an increase by 20% of those visiting food banks this year, and the money raised through the Turkey Trot will go toward providing those in need with the resources they need.
Registration for the fun walk begins at Noon on the 16th at Carillon Point in Kirkland. The walk starts at 1 pm. You may also pre-register to receive a $5 discount.
Last week we blogged about the sales of political Halloween masks and how their sales can often predict the winner of the presidential election. Now comes another, so-called "predictor" from 7-11 convenience stores. Let us introduce you to the 2008 7-Election, where 7-11 coffee drinkers show their support for one candidate over another by drinking from their respective choice's coffee cup.
Now you may be like us and wonder if any of these "predictors" are really accurate. Well, according to 7-11, during the 2000 7-Election, the George W. Bush cups outsold the Al Gore cups by just 1%...and we all remember how that election turned out. 7-11 also states that during the 2004 7-Election, the results tracked identically with published national election results: 51% George W. Bush and 49% for John Kerry (within a few percentage points of actual poll results in many states!).
So where does the 7-Election stand today? According to the national results tallied thus far, Barack Obama leads John McCain 60% to 40%. In Washington State, Obama also leads McCain 68% to 38%.
Can this all be true? Time will tell. Click here to track the results yourself.
Hey all you voters? Want to spread the word that you will be voting come this November? Send in your "I Will Vote" photo to the Secretary of State website. Check out some of the great photos we've found of local voters pledging to vote.
