AU G U S T 2 02 1
LI F E + C U LTU R E T H E J O U RN E Y O F A H O RSE PH O T O G R APH ER T R AI L B L A Z I N G G R AD S C L AS S IS ALWAY S I N SES SI O N
ST E P S TO C LO S I N G
Max Rombakh M A N AG I N G B R O K E R W I N D E R M E R E R E A L E S TAT E
CELL EMAIL WEB
2 0 6 . 2 2 7. 0 7 3 7 M A X R @ W I N D E R M E R E .C O M M A X R O M B A K H .CO M
“
Our experience working with Max Rombakh was very refreshing. He is current and knowledgeable and extremely professional. He inspires confidence and made it very easy for us to trust his judgment and hand over the sale of our home to him. True to his word, he was engaged, available and responsive throughout the entire process. I have to say Max embodies the spirit of the broker of the future, combining professionalism with heart.” S E L L E R , Z I L LO W
LIFESTYLE LETTER
AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER
Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kids + Pets Issue THIS MONTH WE’RE FEATURING SOME OF OUR CUTEST RESIDENTS: KIDS AND PETS! We hope you enjoy our roundup of pet and kid stories – we had fun collecting them. Our cover feature highlights award winning horse photographer, Stuart Vesty. He’s an Eastside resident, but is sought after nationally and globally. Stu prides himself in being a horseman first and a photographer second, and has an interesting story of how his career unfolded. Check out page 22 for the entire feature. We had fun catching up with Bellevue residents, Ronald Rae and James Thomas,
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER
Max Baker | max.baker@lifestylepubs.com MANAGING EDITOR
Heija Nunn | Bellevue@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER
Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Heija Nunn, Caitlin Agnew CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Life N Light, Stuart Vesty
fathers of triplets! James Thomas, works as Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at Alaska Airlines, while Ronald “Ronnie” Rae is Director of Sales at Porsche Bellevue. We asked the busy duo what it’s like to parent while trying to find balance with their own relationship, careers and hobbies. More on page 32. August is always a special time for me because it is Bellevue Lifestyle’s Anniversary month! It’s been 4 years, and I’m grateful for the team of photographers and writers I get to work with, the stories we get to work on, and the response from the community that has been so positive and fulfilling. If you don’t already, please be sure to follow us on Instagram (@bellevuelifestyle) and Facebook (@BellevueLifestylePubs) for real time updates and behind the scenes footage that doesn’t make it the magazine.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
Thank you so much for following along and sharing your feedback, support, and
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
stories with us. We hope to see you around!
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Caitlin Agnew, Publisher
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Proverbs 3:5-6
ON THE COVER Helka - Halsdon Stud, UK
Bellevue Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AWARD WINNING ARABIAN
advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this
HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER, STUART VESTY 8
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
US Postal Service to some of the Bellevue areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Bellevue Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021
FEATURES 22 The Journey of a Horse Photographer Meet Award Winning Arabian Horse Photographer, Stuart Vesty
32 Three Times a Baby 36 Class is Always in Session Teacher Profile, Jeannine Rogel
32 42
42 Cocktail Club Shake Up Your Evening with El Gaucho Bellevue
36
DEPARTMENTS
22
8
Lifestyle Letter
12
Good Times
14
Around Town
18
Local Experiences
20 Animal Kingdom 28 Local Limelight 32 Locals Only 36 Hometown Hero 38 Trend Setter 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Culinary Creations
GOOD TIMES
Bellevue Seniors Keep the Tradition of Celebrating Prom 2021 Despite having an untraditional senior year, Bellevue High School students found new ways to celebrate and keep the tradition of their senior prom alive! Dressed in full glitz and glam, small groups of seniors gathered to take pictures in their best attire and make the most out of a huge milestone event.
1.
Bellevue Lifestyle Celebrates its 4th Anniversary! The Bellevue Lifestyle team celebrated their 4 year anniversary with a special 8 course dinner with private chef, John Thompson of 24x68 Culinary. The team consists of editors, writers, account managers, photographers, and social media group, Brandtegic. Many have been with the magazine since the very beginning. The team has also recently taken on Kirkland Lifestyle Magazine, so it was a special celebration and the first time the team had been all together since early 2020. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT
2.
3.
1. Chef John Thompson of 24x68 Culinary | 2. Editor, Heija Nunn | 3. Publisher, Caitlin Agnew 12
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
Now more than ever, your home matters. The meaning of home has deepened in ways we could not imagine until recently. We hope this finds you healthy and happy within that special place known by one simple word: home.
buchan.com
AROUND TOWN Putter Bert, President & CEO at KidsQuest, moderated the outstanding panel discussion featuring: Megan Ouellette of Alaska Airlines, Pearl Leung of Amazon, Ally Svenson of MOD Pizza, and Jeff Webster of Seattle Kraken & Climate Pledge Arena. BizQuest raised critical funds for KidsQuest Children’s Museum’s educational work.
CELEBRATE WITH THE AUCTION OF WASHINGTON WINES ANNUAL GALA! This August, Auction of Washington Wines (AWW) will host its annual Gala in a hybrid format including an online auction, a live virtual Gala and intimate, in-person mini-Galas. The Online “Silent”
MN CUSTOM HOMES BUILDS A SPECIAL HOME WITH JUBILEE REACH
Auction goes live August 10th featuring a variety of wines, wine-themed events, and experiences to bid on. On August 14, attend in person at one of three
MN Custom Homes is building a special home
“mini-Galas” or tune in for the Virtual Gala hosted live
at 1304 142nd Pl SE where 100% of the profits
at Chateau Ste. Michelle. Funds raised goes towards
benefit the in-school and community outreach
AWW’s beneficiaries. Registration and information
programs provided by Jubilee REACH. More than
can be found at AuctionofWaWines.org.
30 subcontractors and vendors have contributed discounts and donations to further increase the gift. Along with providing services and assistance to students within the Bellevue Public Schools, Jubilee REACH provided groceries and essentials to 750+ families in need during the pandemic. The Jubilee REACH residence went on-market July 20th with public open houses held July 24 & 25.
HOMES FORE ALL! GOLF TOURNAMENT PRESENTED BY MARSJEWETT FINANCIAL GROUP Join us for 18 holes of golf during the Homes FORE
All!
Golf
Tournament
Presented
by
MarsJewett Financial Group at the scenic Golf Club at Newcastle on Monday, August 30th, benefiting
KIDSQUEST CHILDREN'S MUSEUM PRESENTS BIZQUEST! KidsQuest Children’s Museum (a 501c3 non-profit) was founded to inspire the love of learning in chil-
14
Imagine Housing. Enjoy stunning views at this premier golf course, all while supporting a cause that positively impacts our entire community: the creation of permanent affordable housing, along with services to help your neighbors thrive.
dren and families. On June 8, KidsQuest brought its
The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at
educational expertise to lead a virtual discussion on
10:00am and end with an Awards Party BBQ dinner
professional learning in the workforce at BizQuest.
sponsored by PSA Drywall Systems.
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
CONTINUED >
“How many offers did you say you’re getting? 5,237?!”
“And they won’t take my clients first born? Did I tell you this is their most promising child?”
Nothing’s off the table! Renee McGahan, The DwellSeeker Dwellseeker.com Old school Really old school Millennial Gen Z
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AROUND TOWN
BELLEVUE STUDENTS COMPETE AT NATIONAL YOUTH ENTREPRENEURS COMPETITION Samuel Chen and Kavin Manivasagam, two graduates of the Bellevue Chamber's Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), showcased their start-up at the 13th Annual Saunders Scholars National Competition on June 26th, 2021. The Newport High School students were selected to compete at the virtual competition among 20 groups of students across the globe from the US to India. The competition was sponsored by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and both students competed for $30,000 in collegiate scholarships and other awards.
DISCOVER (AND TASTE) WASHINGTON WINE WITH WINE EXPERT KAREN MACNEIL The Auction of Washington Wines (AWW) is bringing back a second season
of
wine
tastings...virtually!
Join renowned wine expert and AWW 2020-2021
Honorary
Chair,
Karen
MacNeil, as she takes you along four virtual wine tastings all summer long. Sip with key winemakers and vintners in the Washington wine industry and discover what makes WA state an acclaimed wine region. The month of
August
will
feature
'Exploring
Washington’s Cabernet Blends' on August 4th at 4:00 pm. More information and registration can be found at https://auctionofwawines.org. 16
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
LOCAL EXPERIENCES
KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends, and our end of summer and return to school summer party ideas!
KIDS AT PLAY + KidsQuest Children's Museum is a hands-on, interactive children's museum that encourages learning through play with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, art and math. 1116 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004 + Bellevue Indoor Skate Park. Lessons and memberships available. Bellevue's first skate park, created in 1994 as part of a Bellevue Youth Link project. 14224 Bel-Red Road Bellevue, WA 98007 + Bellevue Zipline. Fly from tree to tree through the canopy of Eastgate Park on this seven zip line adventure 14509 Southeast Newport Way, Bellevue, Washington 98006 + Larsen Lake Blueberry Farms. Eat your weight in berries and try not to think of Roald Dahl’s Violet Beauregard. 700 148th Avenue SE, Bellevue, Washington 98007 + Crossroads Water Spray Playground. Level up from the backyard sprinkler to visit this menagerie of squirting creatures without the worry of standing water. 999 164th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98008 18
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
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ANIMAL KINGDOM A Letter to Luna
ARTICLE BY JACQUELINE GOLDFARB
A Letter to Luna ON THIS POINT I WAS ABSOLUTELY CLEAR: NO WAY DID I WANT A DOG. Taking care of my ailing husband was a full-time job. Sure, we loved hosting our four-legged grand dog on occasional weekends when our kids were away, but that was a once-in-a-while kind of thing. Don’t get me wrong. I like dogs as much as the next person, but the full-time responsibility for another living creature did not fit into my busy schedule of driving to doctor appointments, managing medication schedules, and preparing healthy meals. If I said it once, I said it a thousand times: Do NOT get me a dog. But apparently, the kids had other ideas, because come Mother’s Day 2014, here comes my daughter from California, and in her arms is the most precious, black and butterscotch Yorkshire terrier I have ever seen! “Awwwww,” my heart starts to melt as I reach for you, but then, I steel myself. “What part of ‘no’ did you not understand?” I demand. “I told you! I do not want a dog!” “Just hold her,” my daughter says. “Just feel how soft she is. Her name is Luna.”
20
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
Mom and Luna
A Letter to Luna
You wriggle into the crook of my arm and look up at me with those eyes, that face. If only you weren’t so adorable, then it would be easy to send you on your
contemporary canine — aforementioned food, crockery, leash and treats — even a Burberry raincoat! The joy you exhibit when I enter a room is pure,
way. But you are the cutest little thing.
unadulterated elation. You dance little circles of wel-
You lick my hand, and I am a goner.
come and I think that in all my whole life, no one has
“I don’t have time for this,” I protest. “I’ve got my
ever been so ecstatic to see me.
hands full taking care of Dad.” We go to sit down, and you jump into my lap. I stroke your back, tickle your paws.
With your arrival, I have cultivated a whole host of new “friends”: A daily dog walker, a weekly grass patch delivery man, a bi-weekly dog groomer, a veterinarian…
“I’ve had her at my house for two months, Mom,”
But you, little Luna, you are the best friend of all.
my daughter says. “She’s housebroken. She’ll be nice
You are the one I tell all my secrets to. And I’m 100
company for you.”
percent confident my secrets are safe with you. I
“I don’t know,” I say. “I live in a condo. I don’t have a yard…”
know your bark for when you’re hungry and your bark to go outside. Your bark at the doorbell is ferocious
“I’ll be back in six weeks,” my daughter says. “Just
until the door swings open and you smother whoever
keep her till then. If you decide you don’t want her, I’ll
is there with wet kisses. Your bedtime snuggles have
take her home with me.”
spared me the loneliness of being just one in a big,
“I don’t have anything to feed her, anything to take care of her. I don’t have a leash…”
roomy, king-sized bed that for 57 years warmed two. It never used to feel so big.
As if on cue, my daughter-in-law and son ring the
There are those who say you can’t teach an old dog
doorbell. They are obviously in on this dog business,
new tricks. To them I say I beg to differ. Thanks to you,
too, because they come bearing gifts! A huge bas-
little Luna, this “old dog” learned to love a new dog,
ket overflowing with all the accoutrements for the
despite my best effort not to.
T h e r e a r e t h o s e w h o s ay y o u c a n ’ t t e a c h a n o l d d o g n e w t r i c k s . T o t h e m I s ay I beg to differ. Thanks to you, little Luna, this “old dog” learned to love a new dog, despite my best effort not to. CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
21
Helka - Halsdon Stud, UK
T H E JOU R N E Y OF A HOR S E PHO T O GR A PH E R
Arabian Mare - Dubai Stud, Dubai
MEET AWARD WINNING ARABIAN HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER, STUART VESTY Apaladin and Stuart Vesty
22
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
ARTICLE CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY STUART VESTY
Mares & Foals Janow Podlaski Stud, Poland
IF YOU ARE A HORSE PERSON, OR KNOW A HORSE
Stallions and their foals for promotion in breeding sales,
PERSON, THAN YOU KNOW IT’S A THING. And by
and horses offered for sale. Portraits of owners with their
“thing” I mean more than just a hobby. It’s a passion,
horses and “keepsake” photos make up a good portion as
a lifestyle, dare I say borderline obsession. Horses are
well. I am so grateful to be able to do what I love.
like family to those that own and show them. And just like with family, and we treasure and love capturing
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT
keepsake photographs. Beaux Arts Resident, Stuart
BEING A HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER?
Vesty, does just that, primarily for Arabian horses. He
After spending a few brief attempts as a horse trainer,
has received the Arabian Horse Times Reader’s Choice
I realized that delayed gratification wasn’t my style, and I
Photographer of the Year six times here in America,
knew I would never have the very best horses in my care.
and once overseas. He’s also received a few Honorable
Photography has allowed me to be part of many great
Mention awards for Wildlife Photography in International
horse’s lives and has introduced me to so many amazing
competition. Not only that, as a rider, driver, and handler
people. I have travelled all over the world, so I’ve had
he’s received numerous National awards in the show
the opportunity to see and experience things that many
arena. Just how does one become a Arabian Horse
people only dream of.
Photographer? Read on… TELL US A BRIEF SUMMARY OF YOUR CAREER.
WHY ARABIAN HORSES? My mother grew up showing American Saddlebreds,
After two years at the Rochester Institute of Technology
but ultimately gave that up to have a family. After I was born
in Rochester, NY with an Applied Science degree in
(the youngest of four), my grandfather bought us a couple
Photography, I was told to pick a specific application of
ponies and a Half Arabian. A purebred Arabian was soon
photography to major in my last two years. I told my pro-
to follow. Going to Horse Shows was my family’s passion
fessor I was going to specialize in Arabian Horses. When
during the summers, and I couldn’t imagine not having
he told me I would never be able to make a career in that, I
them in my life forever. Arabians are the most beautiful,
immediately went out to prove him wrong. A few years went
expressive, intelligent and versatile horses I’ve ever known,
by before I could survive on my photography work alone,
and they make up 95% of what I photograph. That’s pri-
but in 1987 it became my sole income. I primarily photo-
marily because of the circle of clients I work with, but I have
graph show horses for promotion prior to competitions,
successfully photographed many breeds of horses.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
23
THE JOURNEY OF A HORSE PHOTOGRAPHER (CONTINUED)
DO YOU REMEMBER THE FIRST
Then, there was “Eugene”. Rather than running off and
HORSE YOU PHOTOGRAPHED?
putting on a show along the edge, he slowly looked
I have always been fascinated by photography and
toward the water, thought about it for a few seconds,
took WAY too many photos when I was a kid. My mother
and then quietly walked into the lake. Before you knew
was constantly taking film to get developed for me, so
it, all you could see was eyeballs and nostrils. Pretty
when she finally said “This is costing me a fortune!”, I
much looked like an alligator. As we all panicked,
decided to focus on a couple horses my brother had in
unable to do anything, he swam in circles for 10 min-
training. I can’t remember the horse’s name, but when
utes. Finally he came out on the far side of the lake,
I handed the owner the photos she said, “These are
shook off and trotted straight back to the barn and
beautiful, you should do this professionally!” I replied,
into his stall. He laid down and slept for 3 days!
“Dig deeper, there’s an invoice in there somewhere! ;)”
Lots of the memorable stuff happens outside the actual shooting. After a successful session in Sao
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES A
Paulo Brazil, we all went to a Night Club. Knowing we
GOOD HORSE PHOTO?
weren’t in the best part of town we were all a bit on
Knowing your subject is the most important part of
edge. Shots rang out and my friends started diving
getting good photos of a horse. There’s a big differ-
under parked cars. Actually, a car had just backfired. I
ence between a beautiful photo with a horse in it and a
found it to be much funnier than they did. I have met
beautiful photo of a horse. Breed/discipline standards
numerous celebrities over the years and on my first
are important to understand and adhere too. Balance
trip to Jordan I was shooting for the King’s sister. I
and expression are necessary. I pride myself in being
have never met Royalty, so was a little intimidated to
a horseman first and a photographer second, so
say the least. When she greeted me in a Penn State
I’m comfortable adapting to changing conditions.
sweatshirt, I knew everything was going to be ok. For
Because time is limited and weather and lighting are
the most part, people are much more normal in real-
unpredictable, being able to improvise is a huge asset. ity than they are in our minds. ANY SPECIFIC SHOWS OR CITIES
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE HORSE
YOU LIKE SHOOTING BEST?
INDUSTRY CHANGE OVER THE COURSE OF
For 19 years I was hired to photograph the cata-
YOUR CAREER?
log for the annual Poland State Stud Arabian Horse
Just about the time I started shooting full time, tax
Sales, so Poland holds a big place in my heart.
laws changed and the Arabian Horse Industry was
Australia is also on top of my list. Needless to say,
really hit. Fortunately, it didn’t really affect me because
travel out of the country hasn’t been easy lately, but
I had nothing to lose. Over the past few decades, the
I’m hopeful that will change soon. I am extremely
quality of the horses has improved greatly, the inter-
grateful to my loyal clients here in Washington and
national market has grown and classes have been
around the States.
added in the show ring to accommodate newcomers and exhibitors of all ages. For kids and adults alike, I
TELL US A FEW EXPERIENCES THAT STAND
know there are farms within an hour or two away that
OUT OVER THE COURSE OF YOUR CAREER.
would be happy to help satisfy that inner urge to build
Well, they’re all an experience!! Nothing can be
a relationship with these beautiful animals.
completely scripted when working with animals, but
24
for the most part the sessions themselves go fairly
FOR MORE INFO OR TO CONTACT STU:
smoothly. During a session where we had turned sev-
VestyPhoto.com
eral horses loose (separately) in front of a small lake on
Facebook: StuartVestyPhotography
the farm, each one trotted along the bank beautifully.
Instagram: @stuwiki
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
El Rey Magnum RCF - Orrion Farms, USA
Stuart's photo was chosen for the cover of The 75th Anniversary reprint of Walter Farley’s book THE BLACK STALLION
Stuart's photo of Patrick Swayze and his wife Lisa Niemi was chosen for the cover of their book THE TIME OF MY LIFE
World Champion Anood Al Nasser - Akmal Stud, KSA Apaladin with owners Susan Durr & Rebecca Durr Vesty, Bellevue WA CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
25
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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY JESSE FRANKLIN
Trail Blazing Grads
EVEN AS GRADUATION PARTIES AND EVENTS BEGIN TO WIND DOWN AND OUR PANDEMIC PROTOCOLS AND PRACTICES START TO FADE, THERE ARE THREE BELLEVUE GRADS WHO STILL HAVE A LOT CELEBRATE WITH THEIR COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS, CLASSMATES, EDUCATORS AND MENTORS. Bellevue School District alumni Derek, Brooke and Josue, are trailblazing new paths as the first in their families to go on to college. As active members of their school communities through athletics and activities, all three accomplished students have also partnered with Rainier Athlete mentors since fifth grade. Rainier Athletes supports and motivates students to achieve their greatest potential with a longterm approach; beginning the journey with each family when their Rainier Athlete student is in elementary school and sticking by them through high school graduation. Adding to this long collaboration, Josue
D E R E K
SAMMAMISH HIGH SCHOOL
and Derek became mentors themselves to 7th and 8th grade students during their Senior year. Now, all three former Lake Hills classmates are breaking new generational ground as they march towards a bright future and big opportunities.
MENTOR: Peter WHAT’S NEXT? Bellevue College and pursuing his passion for real estate as an intern for a brokerage mostly supporting the Spanish speaking community. BEST HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Scoring a goal in my first game as a freshman! Crowd cheering, teammates celebrating, it was all good. CHALLENGE OVERCOME: First in family to graduate high school and apply for college. FUTURE GOAL: Working hard to one day being able to give my family the life they deserve after the sacrifices they've made for me. MOTTO: Don’t leave for tomorrow what you can do today. SECRET TALENT OR SUPERPOWER: I'm pretty good on the drums ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF: Don’t be afraid of failure, you got this!
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Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
BROOKE
SAMMAMISH HIGH SCHOOL MENTOR: Kaylia WHAT’S NEXT? Seattle University BEST HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Junior year, the JSA (Junior State of America) convention in Portland. Being in a hotel room with friends and upperclass was exciting. It was funny to see my friends pretend to be politicians. Surprisingly, they were naturals. CHALLENGE OVERCOME: Math... I hate math. But I did it! FUTURE GOAL: Get old people in shape as a professional physical therapist. INSPIRATION: Harry Styles. He says, “we’ll be alright.” SECRET TALENT: I can make music with my toes ADVICE TO MY YOUNGER SELF: Care less about what others think about you and more about what you think about yourself.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
29
LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
JOSUE
SAMMAMISH HIGH SCHOOL MENTOR: Jesse WHAT’S NEXT? University Of Washington BEST HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Meeting new life long friends through sports. (Quarterback for SHS) CHALLENGE OVERCOME: Waking up every morning. FUTURE GOAL: Give back to my parents. They’ve given everything for me and my younger brothers. INSPIRATION OR MOTTO: Improving myself everyday SUPER POWER: I don’t talk a lot, but I am very good at reading the room and understanding the emotions of those in the space. ADVICE TO MY YOUNGER SELF: Invest in yourself. Know your circle keep them close.
Become a mentor or lend your support RainierAthletes.org
30
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
31
LOCALS ONLY
Three Times a Baby
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
ARTICLE HEIJA NUNN | PHOTOGRAPHY LIFE N LIGHT
THREE TIMES 32
IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE THREE (COUNT THEM) IDENTICAL KIDS EXPERTLY NAVIWALK IN THREE IDENTICAL ELECTRIC TOY CARS EN ROUTE TO THE PARK. By now, the boys and their parents, James Thomas and Ronald Rae, have become accustomed to most of the reactions they get when they are out and about with the whole family. James Thomas, works as Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
DESCRIBE A DAY IN YOUR LIFE.
at Alaska Airlines, while Ronald “Ronnie” Rae is
We often joke about having a reality TV show
Director of Sales at Porsche Bellevue. We asked
that captures a day in the life. Ron takes most
the busy duo what its like to parent the “broth-
mornings and James most evenings, unless
ers” while trying to find balance with their own
there is the occasional vacation or work trip. In
relationship, careers and hobbies.
that case we have a village of family and three consistent nannies that help us. Most days the
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE
alarm goes off for James around 6 or 6:30AM
REACTIONS YOU GET WHEN YOU
depending on the day and he leaves for work.
ARE OUT WITH YOUR FAMILY?
Ron gets the boys up everyday and starts break-
It’s really hard to miss us. You can see the
fast until our full time nanny gets there in the
curiosity on people’s faces. We get the question
morning before Ron leaves either for work or to
“Are they triples?” Followed by a range from “Oh
take one or more boys to doctor’s appointments
they are so cute” to some people telling James
etc. Afternoon and early evening usually falls to
“I understand probably why you don’t have hair.”
James. Get home, fix dinner for the boys and get them fed before Ron comes home for the bedtime routine. Somewhere in there we try to find
A B A BY
GATING ALONG A NEIGHBORHOOD SIDE-
time to catch up on the day, make time for each other, and prepare for the next day. DOES YOUR CAREER INFLUENCE YOUR PARENTING STYLE IN ANY WAY? WHAT ABOUT YOUR HOBBIES? Definitely! Ron tends to negotiate more with the boys, while James is the decisive dad. We both love to travel, eat out and catch a good movie. James is a Harley owner and rider and avid tennis player, while Ronald loves boating and scuba diving.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
33
LOCALS ONLY (CONTINUED)
AS AN INTERRACIAL AND SAME SEX COUPLE, YOUR PARTNERSHIP HAS ONLY BECOME LEGAL IN YOUR LIFETIME. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT CHANGES YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED, AND WHAT PROGRESS OR WORK IS STILL REQUIRED? We feel fortunate that our union is legally recognized in the State of Washington and the United States as this has not always been the case. As an interracial, same sex couple with triplets we recognize that there are probably more barriers we may face in life than other families, and we are more aware of the sometimes subtle biases and stereotypes that we encounter because of that. We actually think of it as a way to challenge those stereotypes and biases and don’t shy away from it. DO YOU TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT RACE OR
NAME SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES TO
BEING PART OF THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY?
PLAY, SHOP AND EAT ON THE EASTSIDE:
We do! We want to make sure they know that they are loved and their family is unique and dif-
PLAY: Bellevue’s Downtown Park and Inspiration
ferent, but no less special and full of love. We also
Playground is a favorite place to play along with
believe its important to instill positive examples
KidsQuest Children’s Museum. The kids are avid
around these topics in our kids as they will inevi-
animal lovers and enjoy both the Cougar Mountain
tably face questions, comments or judgments as
and Woodland Park Zoos. But, who doesn’t?
they get older. We try to make sure they watch different shows on TV and see different repre-
SHOP: We like the Lakeshore Learning store in
sentations of professionals in their daily lives. We
Factoria because you can get specific on the things
also believe that its important for them to have
you want your kids to learn, and find things, by age,
friends and people that love them and who are
that speak to that.
in their lives that represent a variety of different people. Early on, we explained to them that they
EAT: Red Robin is a staple for our family because we
have two Dads, one is brown and one is white, but
can get in quick, order, get out, and still feel sane. When
we both love them very much.
we a have a fortunate night out alone, we love to have a drink at the Bellevue Club, grab a bite at Ascend, or
WHAT SURPRISES YOU ABOUT PARENTING?
catch a movie at CineMark in Lincoln Square.
Parenting is a lot harder than it looks. We were probably a little naive as to just how much was
LEARN: The boys are learning to swim at the
involved. Potty training three boys was by far one
Bellevue Club. Living around so much water makes
of the most challenging things we had to do. There
us nervous. One of the families in the hospital at the
were days we weren’t sure if we would ever get there,
same time the boys were in N.I.C.U, lost their child
but eventually, success. All three got it. With that said,
to drowning, so this is a focus for us.
there are so many moments we look at each other and just smile and talk about how thankful we feel.
34
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
We are Sounders season ticket holders and we love attending Seahawks or Mariners games.
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HOMETOWN HERO
ARTICLE HEIJA NUNN
is alw s s a a y s l i n c session
Jeannine Rogel
TEACHER PROFILE | JEANNINE ROGEL HER FAREWELL CELEBRATION WAS ONE FOR THE BOOKS. And that’s not just a teacher joke. In 2012 six hundred people gathered at Bellevue High School to celebrate the long and storied career of Jeannine Rogel. The room buzzed with the kind of camaraderie and easy vibe that comes with having something or someone in common, in this case, Ms. Rogel, at the end of 47 years as a teacher in the Bellevue School District. A career that was based in a classroom, yet managed to take her around the globe, often with students in tow.
36
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
Rogel is the daughter of educators who, she says, sparked her love for teaching and advocacy with a home environment that dispensed with typical gender roles, and instead encouraged the kids equally, “Although my brothers did get away with a little more and my mom cooked.” She developed a teaching style that was an extension of how she grew up, working to make students feel cared for and valued. But that doesn’t mean her classroom didn’t have rules; 1) Respect All, 2) Not Here, Not Done and 3) No Whining. As she reflects on the challenges teachers face today as public servants and the difficulty students navigate with the distraction of screens and increased social pressures she is even more convinced of the importance of creative and independent thinking. “Teachers
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must be willing to redo, rethink, or retread, and have a strong grasp of instructional skills,” she says. Meanwhile it grows even more crucial that students read and learn to keep going, and speak up, “So what if you’re wrong?” Past students remember the classroom projects and assignments that became traditions; the times test, the Heritage Project and one of Rogel’s favorites; the annual performance of The Wizard of Oz that sprawled to 73 cast members to be inclusive to all. Her dynamic approach to curriculum allowed her to both develop, and receive, unique opportunities including a year long software development partnership that landed her students on the cover of The Seattle Times, a chance to raise salmon with the Department
GET INSPIRED
of Fisheries, an Fulbright Scholarship for research she presented to a conference at Oxford, and multiple trips with students and parents to faraway places like India, Africa and Washington DC where she experienced one of her most embarrassing moments. Supreme Court Justice Kennedy lightheartedly scolded her for
EAT + DRINK
trying to help her students pass his pop quiz by loudly whispering to them that George Washington is known “as the father of our country!” Today, although she is long retired, her family, lifelong friends and students continue to drive her ongoing quest for knowledge and connection which
SHOP LOCAL
includes an annual pilgrimage to the Chautauqua Institution. Her sister and her best friend of over sixty five years are her go to sources of inspiration and she advises everyone to keep a group of friends who support and understand you, “Water and nurture those relationships, don’t let too much time go by.”
City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
37
TREND SETTER
LIPSTICK LIPSTICK MASKS DOWN, LIPS UP!
Westman Atelier, Lip Suede: Les Rouges, $85 westman-atelier.com/collections/all/products/ squeaky-clean-liquid-lip-balm A luxury palette packed with a densely pigmented ombré of suede look red hues for a bright look and bold lip comeback.
finally seeing more face and bigger smiles as we slowly move towards normal after our masked year. We’ve pulled together a few recommendations to
AMAZON MOST WISHED FOR: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil, Long-Lasting Creamy Lip Liner - Beige, $4 amazon.com/NYX-Liner-Pencil-Color-Beige With 14,070 reviews to consider, you can bet this budget-but-not-basic is a worthy beauty workhorse.
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CLEAN BEAUTY:
Gucci, Rouge de Beauté Brillant Glow & Care Lipstick, $42 nordstrom.com/s/gucci-rouge-alevres-voile-sheer-lipstick Don’t let the gorgeous packaging and delightful in-store display distract you too much as you try choose just one splurge worthy shade. They’re all “gucci.”
UP UP
38
LIPS HAVE NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT.
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
Sun Bum, Lip Balm - SPF 30, $3.99 target.com/p/sun-bum-lip-balm-spf-30 Sun’s out, bums...I mean, balm’s out. Protect your pout with this best-selling formula.
ARTICLE HEIJA NUNN
CELEBRITY BRAND: Fenty Beauty, Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Lumizer, $19 fentybeauty.com/products/gloss-bomb-universallip-luminizer-fenty-glow The name is a mouthful, but this Fenty Face fan favorite is worth it. Because RiRi can do no wrong-wrong.
Sephora Favorites, Give Me Some Lip Balm Set, $21 (sale) sephora.com/product/sephorafavorites-give-me-some-balm-set Shake up your lip routine with a selection of new treatments including two full-size products from Pat McGrath Labs and Sephora Collection.
READER PICK:
SEPHORA LIMITED EDITION:
Laneige, Lip Sleeping Mask, $22 us.laneige.com/products/lip-sleeping-mask An overnight sensation—get it? Get the beloved original Berry or new Peach Iced Tea shade to keep on your nightstand.
FLAVOR FAVE: Strawberry Lip Smacker, $2.99 lipsmacker.com/strawberry-2.html This O.G. icon is still rolling around at the bottom of our handbags. Shiny, tasty and available in a dazzling array of flavors.
CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
39
AUGUST
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
1
5
is limited. For more information visit
BAM VIRTUAL ARTS FAIR 2021!
COCKTAILS & THE BLUES
With careful consideration, Bellevue
Way S, Seattle, WA 98108
7
Arts Museum has decided to make
Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the
this years Arts Fair virtual to ensure
Blue Angels and Seafair on August,
the safety of our community, art-
5th, 2021! Enjoy an evening of cocktails
ists, and staff. We have planned
and the opportunity to meet the Blue
Tune into King TV for the 75th
the best experience possible for
Angels officers and pilots in person!
Anniversary of the Blue Angels at
you and our artists through team-
Hear all about the pilots experiences
Seafair at 8 pm! Get an exclusive full vir-
ing up with The Garrigan Lyman
as Blue Angels and life as an officer on
tual performance of the US Blue Angels
Group, a strategic digital agency
the team. The Seafair fundraiser will be
and a behind the scene sneak peak at
based in Seattle, to build an exclu-
held at the Museum of Flight.
their powerful new jet the super hornet,
Virtual
sive
virtual
marketplace.
Museum of Flight - 9404 E Marginal
5
1
BLUE ANGELS 75TH ANNIVERSARY TV SPECIAL King TV
learn all about the elite group of officers,
Visit
bellevuearts.org/artsfair..
https://lecenterhealth.com/events.
BELLEVUE FARMERS MARKET 1717 Bellevue Way NE,
and a glimpse into the 2022 show!
7
LEARN TO KAYAK CLASS
Bellevue, WA 98004
Meydenbauer Bay Park
Bring your family and friends to enjoy
Ages 14 and up are welcome to join
the seasonal Bellevue Farmers Market,
our REI experts in learning the fun-
every Thursday from 3-7 pm! A unique
Summer Integrated Wellness Series
damentals of kayaking in a comfort-
mixture of vendors that provide you
held right here in the heart of
able and relaxed setting. Learn the
fresh ingredients and products grown
Downtown
skills of proper strokes and paddling
and handcrafted within Washington.
Jujubeet Cafe Saturday, August 7th,
techniques, basics of water safety,
Rain or shine come and enjoy the fresh
for a 75 minute yoga session that is
trip planning, and how to enjoy
fruit & vegetables, cut flowers, fresh
free of charge and open to all. This
your
Kayaks,
meats, one of-a-kind artisans, and tasty
yoga session helps to promote the
safety
cuisines. For more information visit
light activity and deep rest needed to
equipment provided. Register at
https://bellevuefarmersmarket.org.
best achieve their cleanse program.
7
14
CROSSROADS FARMERS MARKET
DT BELLEVUE OUTDOOR YOGA CLASS
FRED HUTCH OBLITERIDE 2021
Bellevue Downtown Park -
WHAT: Any activity!
Bellevue, WA 98008
10201 NE 4th St, Bellevue 98004
WHEN: By Saturday, August 14
Come join us every Tuesday at the
Join Nina Mork for an outdoor
WHO: All ages, abilities, and speeds
Crossroads Farmers Market! Support
yoga class every other Saturday
REGISTRATION FEE: $35 for all
local and enjoy the fresh tastes that
Now-September 11th in Downtown
FUNDRAISING MINIMUM: None!
Washington has to offer! The market
Bellevue Park! Le Center for Health
Meet the goal that works for you.
includes local produce, flowers, food,
& Wellness is offering this class for
WHERE THE MONEY GOES: 100%
and live music to enjoy. A nonprofit
everyBODY. Beginners are welcome!
of participant-raised dollars fuel our
community organization will be fea-
Improve your strength, balance and
cancer research.
tured each market day! Ages 60+
flexibility, while decreasing your anx-
Ready to have fun and take action?
and high-risk customers: 11:30am -
iety and stress. COVID-19 protocols
Join Obliteriders as we get outside
12:00pm. General public: 12pm - 6pm.
have been put into place and space
(safely) and fuel lifesaving science!
kayak
paddles,
and
experience. necessary
JUJUBEET WELLNESS SERIES: YOGA IN THE PARK
Jujubeet Cafe is featuring a 2021
Bellevue
Park!
Join
https://rei.com/events/.
3 NE 8th Street & 156th Ave NE,
40
Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
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CityLifestyle.com/BellevueWA
41
PHOTOGRAPHY LIFE N LIGHT
CULINARY CREATIONS
C O C K TA I L CLUB SHAKE UP YOUR EVENING WITH THIS TASTY COCKTAIL FROM EL GAUCHO BELLEVUE
M AR K E D BY SMO K E INGREDIENTS + 1 Ice block + 1.5 oz Makers Mark + .5 oz smoked Grade A barreled aged maple syrup + 2 dashes of Black walnut bitters + Splash of soda + Finished with orange twist and a Luxardo cherry flag
DIRECTIONS In a mixing cup add Makers Mark, smoked maple simple syrup, and bitters. Shake, strain and pour over an ice block. Finish with a splash of soda and garnish with an orange peel wrapped around a Luxardo cherry pick. COCKTAIL BY: Tom Kneeland of El Gaucho Bellevue
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Bellevue Lifestyle | August 2021
Architect Aaron Mollick of Studio AM Architects while working with Stuart Silk Architects DESIGNER Susan Marinello Interiors