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A Time for Reflection & Giving
In this season of giving thanks, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings in my life. Thanksgiving encourages us to express gratitude, cherish time with loved ones, and give back in meaningful ways. While pursuing our goals is important, I’ve learned that being present and appreciating those who support us is what truly matters.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness, and community. I hold our cover feature especially close to my heart. I had the honor of sitting down with a few of the 288 remarkable members of the City of Bellevue Fire Department, hearing their experiences of working through the holiday season. Their commitment—often at the expense of time with their own families—truly embodies the spirit of service and commitment to the greater good. Being the proud daughter of a father who served as a firefighter and paramedic for the City of Seattle for 27 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the immense sacrifices these brave individuals and their families make every day. Their unwavering commitment and selflessness are truly remarkable, and I have the deepest respect and gratitude for their service.
We’re so grateful for the residents and businesses in our community who support amazing organizations and help make our city vibrant. A heartfelt thank you to our advertising partners, too! Their contributions bring this magazine to your doorstep each month, and they’re a key part of our mission to share inspiring stories and the good news happening around us.
As we prepare to gather with loved ones this holiday season, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly makes life meaningful and cherish our many blessings.
Warm wishes,
TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Celena Cisco, Deborah Friend Wilson, Hannah Wygal
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jamie Petitto, Life N Light, Melissa Baerwald, Mel Martin
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
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city scene
Jocovine Grand Opening 1: Eggs Benedict, one of the favorite dishes from the Jocovine breakfast menu 2: A beautifully displayed charcuterie board for guests to enjoy 3: Owner Adrian Lopez greets a guest at the Grand Opening of Jocovine 4: The main dining room space at Jocovine 5: Dean Jones of Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty toasting with friends 6: A group of friends gathering at the Grand Opening 7: View of one of the event spaces at Jocovine Photography by Nelson Yong and Dorian Demille
UW Band Day 2024 8: On September 7th, the Bellevue High School Cheer team joined the Bellevue High School Band at the University of Washington football game for the annual UW Band Day. 10: The day commenced with an early morning field rehearsal, before enjoying performances from the UW Marching Band and Spirit team in the Dempsey Center. 11: At halftime, over 3,000 musicians representing 25 WA High Schools joined on the field of Husky Stadium for a jam-packed performance. 12: This was a great event to kick-off the new school year! 14: A huge thank you to Cecile Miller Photography for the great pictures. Photography by Cecile Miller Photography
20 Years of Snowflake Lane at The Bellevue Collection!
Watch downtown Bellevue transform into a majestic winter wonderland this Holiday season at Snowflake Lane. This year marks the iconic parade’s 20th anniversary delighting residents and visitors alike. For 26 nights from Black Friday to Christmas Eve, guests can enjoy entertainment from nearly 200 performers, cheerful holiday floats, twinkling lights and more. The event is fit for all ages and is free – making it the perfect holiday tradition. Learn more at bellevuecollection.com/ snowflakelane/.
Alair Homes Announces New Regional Partner for Washington State
Alair Homes is thrilled to announce Stacy Eakman’s promotion to regional partner for Washington State. With 12 years of industry experience, Eakman will oversee Alair’s growth and development across the region. This role is pivotal in expanding Alair's custom home services in Washington, where Eakman will recruit, support, and guide new partners. As a regional partner, Eakman will focus on strengthening Alair’s network of industry-leading builders dedicated to transforming the residential construction experience.
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Photography Courtesy of The Bellevue Collection
Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink: A Holiday Tradition Returns
The Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink, presented by Symetra, returns from November 15 through January 12 at Bellevue Downtown Park. A holiday tradition since 1997, the rink offers over 9,000 square feet of real ice, skate lessons, themed nights, and on-site concessions. Get your tickets and season passes at bellevueicerink.com. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting holiday memories with friends and family!
Where Everyone is Getting their Holiday Photos!
Capture the holiday spirit with Life N Light! Celebrating six years of providing easy and enjoyable holiday photo sessions, they’ve garnered rave reviews from thousands of satisfied customers all across Western Washington. With comments like, “There’s nothing else like this around!” and “It’s the only way I can get a good quality photo of my family!” it’s clear why customers keep coming back year after year. Don’t miss your chance to create beautiful memories this season—book your holiday session today at https://lifenlight.co/.
Photography by Life N Light
Heroes on Call
A HOLIDAY DEDICATION TO THE CITY OF BELLEVUE
FIREFIGHTERS AND STAFF WHO SACRIFICE FAMILY TIME TO PROTECT OURS
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
Aaron Wong Firefighter/Engineer
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED WITH THE BELLEVUE FIRE DEPARTMENT?
I’ve been with the department for almost 12-years.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WORKING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS?
We get creative, build our own traditions, and the station really becomes a second home for my kids. I love cooking for the families that visit and getting to celebrate most holidays twice. On Christmas mornings, I set the alarm a little earlier so we can open gifts before my shift. I’m sure my kids would prefer me home, but I’m glad they’re growing up with memories of what public service looks like.
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Besides the fact that I actually can grow hair?! I love Disney! My wife was a little apprehensive at first, but I’ve successfully turned her into a fan. We were at the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and have taken our kids to all the Disney parks, except Hong Kong and Shanghai. Those are next!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE TO LIVE BY?
“We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious, and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths” – Walt Disney
Samuel Cregger | Firefighter
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED WITH THE BELLEVUE FIRE DEPARTMENT?
I am near the end of my 3rd year with the department.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WORKING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS?
It’s complicated for me. My wife and I’s families are on the East Coast, so I feel bad leaving my wife and son at home alone on a holiday. Thankfully, families are welcome, and it becomes a really fun and unique experience. Last year my son had his first Christmas at the station.
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I used to be a singer-songwriter back in Virginia. I put out a couple of albums and had regular shows for almost a decade. I haven’t performed since 2018.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE TO LIVE BY?
Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.
Troy Donlin | Captain
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED WITH THE BELLEVUE FIRE DEPARTMENT?
I’ve been with the department for 21 years.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WORKING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS?
It’s hard being away from my loved ones during the holidays. My wife has managed birthdays, sporting events, and holidays as a single mother. I recognize her sacrifice as well as my children’s throughout the years. Work can also be hard during the holidays. Taking a loved one to the hospital or displacing a family for a destroyed home during the holidays is more impactful. Thankfully, the people I work with are more like family than coworkers. We take care of each other and do out best to enjoy the holidays while we do the work we love to do.
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I’d like to be a woodshop teacher when I retire. Either that or sail away on a catamaran with my wife, we’ll see!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE TO LIVE BY?
“I exist for we and we exist for them” - Unknown
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED WITH THE BELLEVUE FIRE DEPARTMENT?
2024 is my 18th year.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WORKING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS?
Holidays at the fire station are an enigma unless you’ve experienced it personally. On one hand, we’re away from and missing
Rob Dykstra
Battalion Chief
our families and normal holiday traditions. On the other hand, we get to spend a holiday with our second family, which can be special in its own way. Oftentimes both worlds come together as our families come to the stations to celebrate with our “work” family. Kids are playing and making new friends, spouses and significant others get to meet and see work friends again, and then they get to watch us all run out when a call comes in. Some great holiday memories have been made sitting around extra folding tables in a fire station beanery.
WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I love onions and want to open an onion-themed food truck when I retire.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE TO LIVE BY?
Leaders go first.
DISCOVER CREATIVE WAYS TO SPREAD JOY AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS SEASON WITH THESE LOCAL NONPROFITS
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON
Inspiring Ways to Support Your Community
BELLEVUE LIFESPRING, BELLEVUE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, RAINIER ATHLETES
Tis the Season! Give back this holiday with three local nonprofits. Bellevue LifeSpring, Bellevue Boys & Girls Club, and Rainier Athletes are teaming up to ensure all Bellevue children have the opportunity to experience the magic of the season. Visit BellevueLifeSpring.org/holiday-giving to see how you can help provide holiday gifts and nutrition support for local children and families.
HOPELINK
Hopelink provides programs for people experiencing poverty, immigrants and refugees, and people with disabilities. Hopelink’s mission is to promote self-sufficiency for all members of our community to help people make a lasting change. Our community can participate by giving time as a volunteer, using a talent to raise funds or in-kind donations, or offering the treasure of a financial gift. Learn more about how you can make a difference at Hopelink.org/take-action/
MARY’S PLACE
Mary’s Place needs your help to ensure that children and families who have lost their homes have a safe place to go. The No Child Sleeps Outside campaign runs through the end of the year and your donation of any amount will help to keep families and children safe and warm this winter! Donate by visiting marysplaceseattle.org
Mel Martin
PLAN A STRESS-FREE THANKSGIVING
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KITCHEN & MARKET
CELEBRATE AND FEAST WITH LOCAL GROCER KITCHEN & MARKET
This Thanksgiving, Kitchen & Market offers a stress-free way to prepare a delicious and memorable holiday meal. Our Thanksgiving Feast kit includes all the essentials, featuring fresh, local ingredients, perfect for any gathering size. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, we provide everything you need for a stressfree, flavorful, home-cooked feast. With our ready-to-cook recipes, you can enjoy time with family and guests instead of feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen. Plus, our customers rave about our turkey as “literally the best ever!” Reserve online by November 17th for delivery or in-store pickup and avoid the crowds. Visit our stores in Yarrow Bay, Madison Valley, Medina, Pike Place, and Eastlake. Let Kitchen & Market make your holiday meal easy, delicious, and unforgettable! Here are our tips for a stress-free holiday:
Yarrow Bay Location
01
PARTY PLANNING!
TURKEY TIPS!
Turkey should be close to room temp before roasting - this can take some time, budget an hour or two to let the turkey sit on the kitchen counter and come up in temperature.
Resting the turkey, before slicing, is vital to moist and delicious meat! Take your turkey out of the oven and let it rest on the kitchen counter, for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Everyone’s oven is different, if you find the top of the turkey is browning faster than the rest, place a little tin foil hat on the turkey! The hat will keep it from burning.
Label serving dishes and find serving utensils in advance to avoid a last-minute scramble.
No cook appetizers! The oven will be busy, put out spreads of meat and cheese, veggies, olives, dips, and crostini!
All about herbs! Fresh herbs make great table décor, and a spring of rosemary can make any cocktail look festive.
02
03
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
“ALL ABOUT THE SAUCE” HACKS
Gravy shouldn’t be the last thing you make (too stressful)! Make your gravy earlier in the day (or use store-bought) then whisk in the fresh turkey drippings after the turkey is done cooking. This gives the gravy a more complex and homemade taste and texture. Season to taste and serve!
“One of the reasons I am such a huge fan of the Kitchen & Market Cranberry Sauce is that it is loaded with orange zest!” – Stephanie King, Kitchen & Market Founder. An easy trick is to buy store-bought cranberry sauce and add fresh orange zest and a pinch of all spice.
Thanksgiving is filled with prep and cooking - don’t forget to take care of yourself!
Make sure you eat while cooking the day of - “I’ll have a spread of Kitchen & Market dips, nuts, and cheese at the ready” – Stephanie King.
Plan for leftovers. Whether you are making a delicious turkey sandwich or soup, make sure to buy the ingredients you need while you are shopping for Thanksgiving.
Grab Kitchen & Market Meal Kits for the next week. After the feast, make dinner simple and grab one (or two!) of our meal kits so you can still eat great but with a lot less prep and mess.
04
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH FRIEND WILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE PETITTO
Casia Lodge & Ranch Autumn Escape at
EXPERIENCE LUXURY, GOURMET DINING AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IN THE HEART OF THE METHOW VALLEY
Jamie Petitto
Nestled on nearly 300 pristine acres at the base of the North Cascades, Casia Lodge & Ranch is a hidden gem for luxury travelers seeking an immersive experience in the breathtaking Methow Valley. Since James Beard Award-winning Chef Jason Wilson, known for his culinary leadership at The Lakehouse and Civility & Unrest in Bellevue, joined as Managing Partner with his wife Deborah last September, Casia Lodge has gained regional acclaim. Now part of the exclusive collection of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, guests can enjoy the added benefit of Hilton rewards when booking.
At the heart of the Lodge is Chef Jason’s innovative culinary program. His farm-to-table New American cuisine uses seasonal, local ingredients from the property’s orchards and chef’s gardens, offering an exceptional dining experience. This fall and winter, guests can indulge in a decadent Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas Eve celebration, participate in private and group cooking classes, or savor the weekly Saturday High Tea service featuring house-made sweet and savory creations.
With 11 thoughtfully appointed rooms and a two-bedroom Creek Cabin offering an oversized fireplace and full kitchen, Casia Lodge promises luxury, comfort and style. The property also features a private horse barn for seasonal horseback riding, a stocked trout pond for fly fishing, and guided nature walks to observe local wildlife. In winter, explore snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the Lodge’s groomed trails. The Lodge is also the perfect venue for weddings, corporate retreats and buyout celebrations of all kinds.
Exclusively for guests 18 and over, Casia Lodge & Ranch is the ideal Northwest escape for those seeking adventure and luxury. Book your stay at casialodge.com
Jamie Petitto
REMEMBERING OWEN ROBERTS
Celebrating the Life and Impact of a Beloved Father, Builder and Mentor
OWEN ROBERTS
December 22, 1952 - August 1, 2024
Owen Roberts left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
A Bellevue High School graduate, Owen began his construction career with John Buchan, where he honed his skills before founding Owen R. Roberts Construction in 1983.
Owen’s dedication was evident in every project he undertook. With immense pride, he meticulously crafted mantles and staircases in many of the homes he built. Over the years, Owen and his team completed hundreds of custom homes across the greater Seattle area, finding new wonder in each project—whether it was a challenging site on a steep slope, collaborating with a new architect, or building for an old high school friend.
His career was not just about constructing houses, but about building relationships.
Throughout his 41 years in the industry, Owen formed lasting friendships with clients, employees, architects, subcontractors, and fellow builders. He took great joy in teaching and mentoring others and was always eager to learn, he never stopped asking questions and learning from those around him.
From the beginning, his three children have been integral to the company, starting from sweeping job sites during school breaks to managing the business alongside him. Owen’s legacy will continue through his youngest son, Zach, and the team they have built, who will carry forward his passion for quality craftsmanship, unwavering integrity, and genuine kindness.
Owen’s legacy extends far beyond the structures he created. His absence is deeply felt, and we will remember him always.
ARTICLE BY HANNAH WYGAL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA BAERWALD
HOW TO: seasonal home scents
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
B E W E L L N E S S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting those from sickness prevalent in the colder season. “Seasonal scents are cozy and warm” states Kecia Doll, who is an esthetician from Sweet Be Wellness, “the seasonal scents remind us about how a new time is coming: it’s a time of renewal.” Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts, Kills Bacteria; Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant and Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2ND
First Saturdays at The Avenue
The Avenue | 12:00 PM
The Avenue stores are excited to open our doors and courtyard on the First Saturday of the month for a unique popup event! Explore offerings from local vendors, savor delicious treats, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re browsing or shopping, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to support local and experience the Avenue from 12 pm to 5 pm!
NOVEMBER 4TH
Washington Technology Expo
Meydenbauer Center | 7:30 AM
The Washington Technology Expo is a premier business technology event that connects innovative tech providers with businesses ready for digital transformation. Attracting over 3,000 attendees, the expo serves as a dynamic marketplace of ideas, solutions, and opportunities. It’s designed to catalyze growth, innovation, and collaboration, making it an essential gathering for anyone looking to drive technological advancement. For event details and to purchase tickets visit https://bellevue techexpo.extraslice.com/.
NOVEMBER 9TH
38th Annual
Newport Ski Swap
Newport High School | 10:00 AM
Join us for the 38th Annual Newport Ski Swap - a consignment sale in Bellevue, WA, featuring skis, snowboards, boots, jackets, helmets, and more! Open to the public with free parking and no tickets required, we accept credit, debit, cash,
Persimmon Design
Interior Design and Landscape Design
425-736-5488
persimmon.design@outlook.com www.persimmon.design We craft elegant spaces inspired by the unique stories of our clients!
and checks. Over 500 individuals and 6 snowsport shops are consigning about 10,000 items for all ages. Last year’s sale surpassed $750,000—don’t miss it!
NOVEMBER 14TH
Hawk's Live Presented by The Bellevue Collection
Bellevue Square | 7:00 PM
Catch “Hawks Live” at Bellevue Square’s Center Court on select Thursdays from 7:00 – 9:00 PM during the 2024 NFL season! Hosted by former players Michael Bumpus and Paul Moyer, this weekly show features live interviews with Seahawks players, expert analysis, and matchup previews. Don’t miss this chance to engage with Seahawks legends in person!
NOVEMBER 16TH
11th Annual Festival of Trees
Hyatt Regency Bellevue | 5:00 PM
Join us as we gather for a night of celebration, hope, and inspiration to usher in the Holiday season. During the Festival of Trees Gala, guests participate in an auction to bid on unique and fun items, including professionally decorated Christmas Trees, to help support Jubilee REACH services for the community. For event details visit jubileereach.org/festivaloftrees.
NOVEMBER 30TH
Garden d'Lights 2024
Bellevue Botanical Garden | 4:30 PM
Garden d’Lights features over half a million sparkling lights transformed into whimsical shapes of plants, flowers, birds, and animals, as well as cascading waterfalls. Set amid the stunning natural beauty of the Bellevue Botanical Garden, this enchanting display creates a magical atmosphere for all visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this dazzling holiday tradition!
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