Kirkland, WA June 2023

The Men's Issue

SPORTS + RECREATION

SEATTLE’S SHINING ALL-STAR

ENTERTAINMENT

MEDIA MEN

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

THE CHALLENGE TO BE THE BEST

Men

The importance of a father is tremendous! Fathers and other involved male role models make immeasurable impacts in their home and family. Watching my husband with our four children, I know that those connections will last a lifetime.

A father’s or grandfather's gifts of quality time, affirming words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children.

As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways dads build up their homes:

• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational

• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting

• A dad’s smiles can instill joy and confidence

• Time with a dad can be fun and productive

• A dad’s physicality can be challenging

• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational

• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable

Let your father or a father figure in your life know how much he matters to you. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Caitlin Agnew | caitlin.agnew@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Bree O’Brien | bree.obrien@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Max Baker | max.baker@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bree O’Brien, Julio Rodriguez, Joseph Altuzarra

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jackson Krule

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Proverbs 3:5-6

First Founding Broker Mark von der Burg and Compass Celebrate 5 Years of Succes s in the Northwest.

WHY COMPASS?

“Compass enabled me to envision new possibilities for my business and reignited my passion for real estate. Their forwardthinking and technology-driven approach keeps agents equipped with the necessary support and tools to succeed in the modern real estate market. They foster a supportive and collaborative culture, making me feel part of a community rather than just an individual agent. I’m repeatedly impressed by Compass’s dedication to benefiting not just buyers and sellers, but also their agents, which has truly set them apart in this industry.”

vdbestates.com

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: MC and Auctioneer, Graham Crow 2: Hosted by The Daughters’ Guild, the event raised money for Seattle Children’s uncompensated care fund

Guests at the Toast to Tots event, Saturday March 25th at Efeste Winery 4: Daughters’ Guild daughters were also in attendance, volunteering at the event 5: A parent of a Seattle Children’s patient spoke about her daughter Lucy’s health journey 6: Guests at the 2023 Toast to Tots event 7: Over 100 guests participated in live and silent auctions, wine toss, raffle and dessert auction

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @KirklandLifestyle

22: Meteorologist Morgan Palmer emceed Lake Washington Schools Foundation’s Be the Bridge spring benefit, which raised $230,000+ 23: March 23, guests celebrated LWSF’s 18 years of support for 30,000+ students in LWSD 24: Kirkland Mayor Penny Sweet joined sponsor Waste Management, whose staff ensured the event was Zero-Waste 25: Philanthropists Ben and Nancy Remak are longtime champions of the LINKS Lunch Buddies mentoring program 26: LWSF Executive Director Katy Philips, LWSD School Board President Siri Bliesner, LWSD Associate Superintendent Dr. Joy Ross 27: Dr. Danit Erlich spoke to 350+ attendees about teaching Youth Mental Health First Aid to educators 28: Middle school student Robyn Le shared how LWSF’s Inclusive Libraries grant helps kids see themselves as heroes

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Kirkland’s Iconic Wine Destination, The Grape Choice, Under New Ownership!

After 40 years, Larry Springer and Penny Sweet have sold The Grape Choice to long time manager Desirae Ballard.  Known as a Kirkland institution or “Cheers”, you can grab a glass of wine, a cheese plate, and make a friend.  The bar has charcuterie boards, live music Thursday and Friday nights, and weekly Wednesday Wine Tastings from 5-8pm.  Plus, the store has the largest, most interesting selection and the best patio in Kirkland!

Eakman Construction is now Alair Kirkland

This spring Eakman Construction announced its official transition to Alair Kirkland. While they have a new name, they will be serving the same community, with the same staff and with the same mission: to change the way people feel about residential construction companies. Although Alair has locations all through North America, Alair Kirkland is the first location in the PNW. Owner Stacy Eakman is excited to bring the network’s resources and experience to the Eastside.

Photography: Life N Light

City Launches New “Kirkland Initiative” for Civic Engagement

The City of Kirkland has launched its new Kirkland Initiative civic engagement program.  This innovative program aims to diversify public participation in local government and make City Hall accessible to all.  This interactive 8-week series will include learning the foundations of government functions and programs, engaging in dialogue to share feedback, and participating in activities like interviews and role playing to better understand decision making processes.  More information about the Kirkland Initiative: kirklandwa. gov/KirklandInitiative

Photography: City of Kirkland

New Owners Bringing Expertise to Restore Hyper Wellness Issaquah

Drs. Dannelle Carlson and Kimberly Otis, owners of Restore Hyper Wellness Kirkland, have recently taken over the Issaquah location. Over the past two years they’ve successfully maintained the Kirkland store's status as the number one ranked Restore Hyper Wellness franchise. Restore’s promise is to help you feel your best, so you can do more of what you love, through science-backed wellness services. These include tailored services like Whole Body Cryotherapy, Red Light Therapy, and more.

Celebrate 130 Years of the Peter Kirk Building with KAC!

The Kirkland Arts Center is a commu nity focused visual arts school and gallery housed in the historic, nation ally recognized Peter Kirk Building on Market Street. We rely on generous sponsors and friends like you to sup port our mission. Our largest fundrais ing event of the year, the Gala offers an exciting, fun evening to support visual arts education and experiences pro vided by Kirkland Arts Center. Friday, June 2nd at 6 pm. Meydenbauer Center kirklandartscenter.org

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Kirkland

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with any one of these local experiences.

Our Picks for The Man Clan

SEATTLE SOUNDERS: Cheer on Seattle's professional soccer team at Lumen Field and get excited for a future FIFA Club World Cup appearance. 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, Washington 98134

LOUNGE BY TOP GOLF: Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range and swanky lounge with drinks and games. 425 Urban Plz Suite 200, Kirkland, Washington 98033

GLOW MEDISPA - KIRKLAND: Men too can derive many benefits from skincare and anti-aging treatments. Maintaining a youthful appearance can help your confidence level, and even your career. 9750 Northeast 120th Place Kirkland, Washington 98034

SAVAGE BREWING COMPANY: Kirkland's newest brewery! Offering 12 different beers across all taps. Including multiple styles in IPAs, Stouts, Lagers, and more. 12815 NE 124th St I, Kirkland, Washington 98034

CONCERTS AT MARYMOOR PARK: Visit Marymoor Park for the annual summer concert series at the top-rated 5,000-person concert venue, nestled in the Willowmoor Farm historical district near Clise Mansion. 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, Washington 98052

Want to recommend a local experience?

Is Cash King?

Despite a strained economy, real estate cash purchases are on the rise, especially at higher price points. Recent data shows that as many as 40% of offers made in the Bellevue area are cash, with Kirkland following closely behind at between 20%-30%. So, how can the financed buyer compete?

Put at least 20% in down and work with an established lending entity. Sellers look for strong buyers who are well qualified financially, working with reputable lenders. A larger down payment gives a seller confidence that the buyer is not struggling to make the financials work, reducing the chances of a transaction falling through the cracks.

This brings me to Contingencies. Non contingent funds are alluring, but unless other contractual terms are waived, cash buyers may still be at a disadvantage. Contingencies are in place to protect the buyer and performing comprehensive due diligence up front can enable you to more comfortably and knowledgeably waive certain factors that may also put you in a position of power vs competing offers.

It’s all in the terms. What is the seller looking to achieve?

Typically it’s the most money and the cleanest terms but when you dig deeper there are often additional motivating factors that can tip the balance. It could be a rent back period, a longer or shorter closing time frame. Many lenders can now close in as little as two weeks, which can be very appealing to sellers looking for a cash-comparable speedy sale.

The last few years’ competitive market has given non cash buyers other options to strengthen their offers, such as waiving appraisal or pledging to cover an appraisal deficit using noncontingent funds.

Broker

206.599.9908

marilisa@compass.com

luxuryseattleliving.com

@luxuryseattleliving

Every dollar matters. In this 2023 market buyers are using the all cash card to come in under asking, hoping for a little more flexibility on price in exchange for a faster, smoother close. This means that paying full asking or more, with a strong financed offer, can often beat a cash purchaser who is coming in under list price.

Suffice to say that strategy can certainly trump cash.

MEDIA MEN

FIVE INDUSTRY NOTABLES

SHARE THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE WITH KIRKLAND LIFESTYLE

News Anchor | Fox 13

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WORKING IN THE MEDIA?

I met a sports anchor named Jim Rose when I was in sixth or seventh grade. He explained that he got paid to go to Chicago Bears and Bulls games and talk to Michael Jordan. I decided at that point to pursue a career as a sports anchor. Along the way I made the transition to news.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

Being on the news side of journalism, I have the opportunity to make a bigger impact on the communities we cover. Highlighting people and places that feel they don’t have a voice. Plus, no two days are ever the same in this business.

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR INDUSTRY EVOLVING?

We have no control over the technological advances that will continue to change not just journalism, but all industries. TV will adjust as needed. But one thing that won’t change is authenticity. People watch who they trust and that helps with likeability.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO WORK IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Get comfortable with being told no! This business is extremely subjective. It only takes ONE yes. When you get that opportunity, don’t take it for granted. Also, the importance of finding the right mentors. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for multiple people advising me over the years. Now I make it a point to help younger journalists carve their own career paths.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WORKING IN THE MEDIA?

I spent years working in retail, restaurants and tourism until I decided to follow my dream in my mid-twenties. I got a job in radio in my hometown of San Antonio, Texas in 2005. I worked at news/talk radio stations in San Antonio, Dallas and Phoenix before making the move to television in 2014.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

I love that every day brings a new challenge. No two days are ever the same. I also love that I get to collaborate with our brilliantly talented team on news stories that impact western Washington. Plus, because of what I do, I get to meet people from all over the country. I know how truly blessed I am to do what I do where I do it with the people I do it with.

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR INDUSTRY EVOLVING?

Local television is being forced to evolve as people continue to “cut the cord” and move to streaming services. Media companies are creating new platforms where their content can be found. However, I believe as media companies continue to consolidate, resources could dwindle and become regionalized, negatively impacting smaller local communities.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO WORK IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

I would tell anyone thinking about getting into broadcast journalism to really think about what you’re getting into. You’ll likely have to start by moving to small-town America. You’ll have to work holidays. People will think negatively about you and what you do. Plus, the pay isn’t wonderful. That said, a free press is essential to democracy and people who are committed to seeking the truth are needed now more than ever.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WORKING IN THE MEDIA?

From the time he was a kid in Philadelphia - which he calls “a great sports town” - Sims aspired to work as an announcer, and started his path as a newspaper writer. In college he interned at the Philadelphia Inquirer, and post-graduation went on to work at the New York Daily News as a sportswriter. From there Sims gained a wealth of experience in the media, working in anchoring, producing, hosting a radio talk show, announcing for Temple University, and then ESPN - which he says opened up significant opportunities.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

“Adding to the excitement of a game, and hearing the roar of the crowd,” says Sims. He says he loves announcing baseball, football, and basketball games equally, as favoring one “would be like choosing which one of your children you love the most.”

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR INDUSTRY EVOLVING?

Technology has been a big help, but Sims emphasizes, “You’re always telling a story. There are better ways to deliver the product than in the past, but the essence of storytelling doesn’t change.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO WORK IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

“The Golden Rule is always in effect,” Sims says. “And work hard. Show up early, stay late, ask questions and listen to others’ experiences.” He says there are hundreds of people who he’s looked up to as mentors or inspirations over the years, and names Curt Gowdy, Bill Campbell, Charlie Jones, and Tom Brookshier among them.

“And work hard. Show up early, stay late, ask questions and listen to others’ experiences.”

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WORKING IN THE MEDIA?

I wanted to be a journalist from the time I was in high school and was always interested in the news. After getting my journalism degree from Ball State University, I worked as a reporter at a small daily newspaper in Ohio. I had several reporting jobs (covering everything from crime to government to business), until landing at the Dayton Business Journal . I had just about every newsroom position and was Editor-in-Chief for 12 years, then Market President and Publisher for four years before moving into the same role at PSBJ over a year ago.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

Meeting many new people all the time; learning about their stories and backgrounds is fascinating. It keeps things interesting and has made my family’s transition to the Seattle area much easier. We bought a house in Kirkland, and I’ve already met so many people through work who are from the Eastside. Our industry is about relationships, whether it’s sources for reporters or clients for sales reps. We do two or three dozen events annually and doing them in-person now is so much fun.

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR INDUSTRY EVOLVING?

It’s critical to be attuned to your audience and deliver what they want from your news organization. Each media outlet has its own unique role and to continue to thrive you must stay true to your mission. The industry is diversifying from a revenue standpoint, as ad dollars and subscriptions no longer pay all the bills. Finding new revenue streams will be vital for every media organization to continue operating in a way that serves the needs of the public.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO WORK IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Never forget why you chose this profession. Always stay true to your ethics and put the reader first and you will be very successful in the end.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WORKING IN THE MEDIA?

My first published content was a letter to the editor in the sports section of The Oregonian , opining about my beloved Portland Trail Blazers. It was so exciting to flip through the physical newspaper and see my byline. Then I was an editor at my high school and college newspapers. One summer in college, I interned for MLB.com, covering the Seattle Mariners. It was an absolute blast. After graduating from the UW — go Dawgs! — I joined GeekWire in 2012 as its first full-time reporter.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE JOB?

Interacting with some of the smartest and most successful people in our region. We interview leaders across industries and share their insights with our readers. We apply those lessons to our own work at GeekWire as well. I also appreciate the responsibility we have to provide readers with information that impacts their lives, particularly as technology plays a larger role in our world.

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR INDUSTRY EVOLVING?

Readers will continue to value news, but how they consume and pay for information will change. Media outlets should focus on growing a loyal following and staying abreast of news consumption trends. I’m optimistic about technologies like artificial intelligence that can help us do our jobs more efficiently. At the end of the day, “content is king” — readers keep coming back for relevant and valuable information, regardless of medium.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THOSE WHO ASPIRE TO WORK IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Read and write as much as you can. Read top news outlets covering your interest areas. Find the best reporters and read their work. Start writing. It can be a blog, a newsletter, freelancing — just get more reps. If you’re looking to join a media outlet, you’ll need some “clips” to show the quality of your work. Plus, you’ll learn how to use publishing and production tools that may be valuable at a future job.

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THE VERY LATEST:

THE CHALLENGE TO BE THE BEST

Darren Alger didn’t start Unify Consulting in Kirkland - he founded the company in 2012 in Seattle, across from T-Mobile Park. However, after Chris Hansen purchased the building, Alger found himself looking for a new location. “I love Kirkland - it’s just a great place,” he says, “we found a building in Rose Hill and bought it.” While the pandemic made working from home the norm for most white collar companies, Alger enthuses about the synergy that comes into play when Unify employees are together.

Born and raised in Mill Creek, Alger didn’t always plan to be an entrepreneur. He got into consulting and was passionate about coming up with creative solutions working on fun, interesting projects. He saw needs that weren’t being met by the big multinational consulting firms, and “I felt I had to do it (start the company), I had a great opportunity.”

Now Unify employs 700 people, and Alger says “It’s humbling to be responsible for hundreds of employees, ensuring they’re engaged and

bought in, and knowing the buck stops with you. But when you get to hire people who want to contribute and help you succeed, it makes the responsibility that much easier.”

One of Unify’s guiding principles is that employees’ personal lives are recognized as a priority, and Alger, as a self-described recovering workaholic, sees the importance of modeling that. “I have a great family and I love to spend time with them,” he says. Employees thrive knowing that Unify leadership sees them as more than just their jobs.

“We work all across the enterprise of large companies,” says Alger, “How can we be the best? It’s a big challenge.” The way Alger conveys his enthusiasm and passion for consulting, as well as his conviction that family and personal lives must be prioritized over work, make him a dynamic leader who can help his company evolve as needed. “I want to be the best consulting firm in the world in how we serve our dedicated clients,” asserts Alger.

We’ll travel to your home, office, or special event for individual or group IV Therapy on the spot. Treatments generally take between 30 to 60 minutes and are administered by a registered nurse.

FEATURED DESIGNER: JOSEPH ALTUZARRA

In his own words, before his runway show presented by Nordstrom at the Seattle Art Museum Supporters Spring Into Art event

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR YOUTH; WHEN DID YOU FEEL A SPARK THAT WOULD LEAD YOU INTO DESIGN?

I was born and raised in Paris, and lived there until I was 18. My mom is Chinese-American and my dad is French, so I grew up in a very multicultural household. From a young age, I was fascinated by the transformative power of clothing and how clothes can make you feel empowered, confident.

YOU STUDIED ART HISTORY AT SWARTHMORE, HOW DID THAT EDUCATION INFLUENCE YOUR CAREER?

Studying art history shaped my understanding of the role that fashion plays in the broader cultural landscape. I developed an appreciation for the way that clothing and style can be used as a form of self-expression and as a reflection of the cultural values and trends of a particular time period. I was particularly drawn to the work of artists and designers who challenged traditional notions of beauty and gender.

WHAT INFLUENCES SHOW UP IN YOUR DESIGNS AND PROCESS?

As a designer, my designs and creative process are influenced by a wide range of sources. I draw inspiration from everything from art and architecture to film and music, and I’m always seeking out new ideas and perspectives that I can incorporate into my work. It is really an extension of me and what I am interested in at the moment.

One of the key influences on my designs is my multicultural background. This unique cultural perspective has given me a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of different cultures, and it often shows up in my designs through the use of rich colors, intricate patterns, and unexpected details.

Another major influence on my work is my love of nature. I often incorporate natural elements into my designs, such as floral prints or earthy tones, and I’m constantly inspired by the way that nature can be both beautiful and powerful.

I work closely with my team to develop each collection, and I’m always open to feedback and new ideas. I’m also very focused on the fit and feel of each garment, and I’m constantly experimenting with new

fabrics and techniques to create clothing that is both beautiful and comfortable to wear.

YOU’RE THE FEATURED DESIGNER AT THIS YEAR’S SAMS SPRING INTO ART EVENT, WHAT DOES THAT PARTNERSHIP WITH SAMS AND NORDSTROM MEAN TO YOU?

I am so honored to be the featured designer at this special event. Nordstrom is such a valued partner for the brand, so when the team brought the opportunity to host a fashion show in partnership with SAMS at the Seattle Asian Art Museum, I was excited to be able to participate in an event that not only supports the arts but also supports Asian history and tradition. I am so happy to be able to collaborate in this way.

HOW IS YOUR WOMEN’S MAIN LINE CONTINUING TO EVOLVE? WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE IN THE LATEST DESIGNS?

Ultimately, my goal as a designer is to create clothing that empowers and inspires women, and I’m constantly striving to push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of design, craftsmanship, and innovation. I am really excited for you all to see the exciting projects we have coming up – stay tuned!

AS YOU CONTINUE TO EVOLVE AS A DESIGNER, WHAT DO YOU ASPIRE TO ACHIEVE IN THE COMING YEARS?

I am truly so grateful to be able to do what I do and work with incredible people. I hope my curiosity about the world will continue to inspire me and my future collections. I feel Altuzarra as a brand has really hit its stride and I am excited to see the journey on which it leads us.

“I draw inspiration from everything from art and architecture to film and music, and I’m always seeking out new ideas and perspectives that I can incorporate into my work.”

The RD Homes Way

The Eastside has many beautiful, well-designed homes. Some of those stand-out properties are thanks to local builder RD Homes. Kirkland Lifestyle connected with Ryan Deason, the founder and owner of RD Homes, to learn more about the company and feature a recently completed project that is truly exceptional.

Deason has lived in the Seattle area for the last thirty years, and Kirkland for the last eight with his wife and three children. Joining the home building industry in 2004, Deason “started at the bottom as a laborer for a framing crew at a young age, and worked my way up, learning about all aspects of building like carpentry, planning, and land purchasing. I knew I wanted to offer ‘the complete build’” he says, serving clients in each phase of their home building process.

The featured project is on a heavily wooded lot, which made the build challenging in both permitting and construction, but in the end provided a unique

opportunity for a warm and woodsy feel in the city of Sammamish. The home went on the market as a pre-sale listing, and the buyers were able to make some changes to suit their tastes in the completed build.

Deason advises those who are looking to build a custom home to keep two main points in mind: Engage with a builder early on in the process to understand costs - involving your builder in the planning phase will help establish realistic expectations; and design for the future as well as the present. “How might you age into the house?” asks Deason, be thoughtful of amenities you may appreciate later.

RD Homes is a smaller company than some of its competitors, and has an ethos of openness and honesty in everything they do - budgeting, planning, communication of details, etc. Deason himself maintains a hands-on approach to each project, because “That’s my passion, building unique custom homes with distinctive details and finishes.”

Seattle, Forever

AN EXCERPT FROM THEPLAYERSTRIBUNE.COM, WRITTEN BY SEATTLE

I know I’m not the first Dominican player to have made it to the big leagues like I did. There have been plenty before me, and there will be plenty after me. But you know what we all have in common? At some point, as young men, we just had to jump — we had to trust in those around us. Our parents, brothers and sisters, cousins, friends, friends of friends. Anyone. We had to hope that they had our best interests at heart. Because it takes a village to make a ballplayer in the Dominican. I saw kids like me, kids with real talent, get lost along the way because they didn’t have the right people around them. But I was lucky. I had my dad. He was a ballplayer back in the day, and I think that’s where my passion for the game comes from.

And my mom made sure I treated everybody well and played the right way.

They helped me see people for who they really are. And when I was considering my options for coming to America, I wanted to be around  good  people. The more time I spent talking with the Mariners, the more I started to feel something really special growing. In one of our conversations, they said something that really stuck with me: “We don’t want you to be anything other than the guy that you say you’re going to be.” They looked at me, a 16-year-old kid, and put their faith in who  I  thought I could be. That’s trust. You get me?? That’s trust

“When you find something good? Something you love? Hold on to it. Don’t let it go. And I love Seattle. It’s home. I feel embraced here, and I know how this city treats people who give their all.”

So I just let myself be me. That’s what I tried to do the whole year. That’s what I felt like Seattle wanted me to do. And when it got tough, and there were bad stretches, I just had to trust in myself — in those around me. As a rookie, you know, you come into the show with some personal goals, right? You want to stay up in the bigs, you want to prove to everyone who helped you that you can do it, all of that. But I’d be lying if I said everyone in our clubhouse wasn’t thinking about the drought in March, in April, in May. We wanted to break it so bad.

And that became all I wanted. I felt a part of something that connected generations of Mariners fans. I’d come out to the stadium each day and I’d see that look on their faces, that desire to see a good ballclub. That became a part of me. And all the guys in our room, too.

People ask me all the time about what our fans are like, or what the stadium was like during the playoff run. I’m not going to sit here and tell you about how they’re the “loudest” or the “craziest” or whatever. It’s not about that. I’ve been in the league for a year. Mariners’ fans are all I really know. Yeah, we went to some loud parks and all that, but it’s different when you’re a visitor. All I can tell you is that there’s an emotional connection at our park that you just have to experience to really understand. Coming out onto the field for big games…. Man, I would just get this  feeling. It would start in my ankles, up my legs, through my back and then just BAM — this bolt of energy through my body. And I’d take that

and I’d run with it all night. I’d look around the park … and it just felt like, I’m supposed to be here.

I was in the back of Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse with my agent at the end of August, and that’s what I was thinking about. That energy. He was telling me about the contract, about all the details, and I just wanted that energy, forever. I’ll be honest, I never thought twice about another club or a future anywhere else other than Seattle. I don’t care if people believe it. The Mariners took a chance on me all those years ago. They let me be  me.  Other clubs had their opportunity. I was still Julio back then. Seattle just saw it before everyone else. I’ll always appreciate that. And another thing: I’m  happy here. Every time I’m at the ballpark, every time I’m walking around the city, every time I look at the Space Needle and remember  The Jetsons cartoons I used to watch on the living room floor — I’m reminded how happy I am here.

I think people sometimes get so lost trying to get more and more and more. And that’s not to say I don’t want to get better, or help the team get to late October baseball — that’s my biggest goal.

But, man…. When you find something good? Something you love? Hold on to it. Don’t let it go.

And I love Seattle.

It’s home.

I feel embraced here, and I know how this city treats people who give their all.

For full story, visit  www.theplayerstribune.com/ posts/julio-rodriguez-mlb-baseball-seattle-mariners

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 2ND

Open for the Summer: Juanita Friday Market

JUANITA BEACH PARK, 9703 NE JUANITA DRIVE, KIRKLAND

3:00 PM

You can find as many as 30 vendors showcasing everything you need for a relaxing picnic at the beach or special dinner at home. The market stimulates the local economy, provides increased access to fresh nutritious food and supports a healthy community by offering a place to connect with neighbors, meet your farmers and learn about new farming practices.

JUNE 7TH

Kirkland Wednesday Market Opens for the Summer

MARINA PARK, 25 LAKESHORE

PLAZA, KIRKLAND | 3:00 PM

Sample local and artisanal goods and specialties from fresh crisp apples, to sweet berries, and delectable baked goods and more. A variety of local vendors will have offerings to delight the senses.

JUNE 17TH

Eastside For All's Juneteenth Event

JUANITA BEACH PARK, 9703 JUANITA DR NE, KIRKLAND

12:00 PM

Featuring Delbert Richardson and his Unspoken Truths American History Traveling Museum. Additional speakers for the day include Paula Sardinas, President and CEO of FMS Global Strategies and the WA Build Back Black Alliance; Dwight Jones Sr., Microsoft, Author of  A Black Journey in Tech. Youth Performances, food, music and more! For more info  eastsideforall.org Co-sponsored by the City of Kirkland.

JUNE 18TH

Family Fun: Father’s Day

Pizza Party

SUR LA TABLE, 90 CENTRAL WAY, KIRKLAND | 1:00 PM

Celebrate Father’s Day with pizza! The whole family will have fun in this class as you build your own pie with our pizza bar. Our chef instructor will demonstrate how to create ranch dip from scratch, plus you’ll learn to make tasty chicken wings in the oven. End class on a sweet note with ooey gooey S’mores Sundaes. surlatable.com

JUNE 23RD-25TH

Kirklandia Waterfront Wine Festival

MARINA PARK 25 LAKESHORE

PLAZA KIRKLAND

Are you ready for the ultimate wine tasting experiences? Look no further than Kirklandia, the hottest tasting event of the summer! Join us for three days of non-stop fun and excitement, featuring some of the best local wines, delicious food and drinks, and so much more. With tastings, food, games and activities, there’s something to do for everyone. eventbrite.com

JUNE 24TH

Bridle Trails Party in the Park

BRIDLE TRAILS STATE PARK

5300 116TH AVE NE KIRKLAND

9:00 AM

Our signature community event where country fair tradition meets urban carnival fun. Pony rides, unique equestrian performances, children’s activities, a petting zoo, and food trucks. Always the 4th Saturday in June. This event is free, though select activities have a fee. bridletrails.org for more info.

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Southern BBQ Ribs

A SLOW SMOKED BACKYARD LABOR OF LOVE

This is a southern classic that I can remember watching my grandfather practice almost fifty years ago on his old Weber smoker. I never understood why a few bites of food took all day…I do now! Enjoy!

Dry Rub BBQ Ribs

Dry Rub Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp  salt

• 4 tbsp  sugar

• 2 tbsp  cumin

• 2 tbsp  black pepper -- freshly ground

• 1 tablespoon  crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 tablespoon  fennel seed -- freshly ground

• 1 tablespoon allspice -- freshly ground

Basting Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp  salt

• 1 tbsp  black pepper

Directions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients for the basting sauce and reserve until cooking. This can be made up to 5 days in advance.

2. Generously massage the dry rub onto the ribs and allow to marinate in the refrigerator overnight, or at least 12 hours.

3. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees. Using a thermometer, monitor and maintain temperature to ensure that your ribs are cooked fully. Place the ribs in a standing rib rack and then into a preheated smoker for 5-6 hours while basting with the reserved sauce (every 45 minutes). The ribs should gently pull apart from the bone when done.