Saddling up at the bar top of Jules Mae’s Saloon in Georgetown will insure you a greeting by Johnny Cash’s middle finger. The legendary photo snapped of the Man in Black is used to explain the forms of payment accepted at the saloon (“cash” or credit) and sets a tone for the bar that there is no going back from.

Stationed across Airport Way from the original Rainier Brewery, Jules Mae’s was once crowned “the bar that won’t go away” by The Stranger for staying put (minus a slight decade hiatus) for 124 years. Stacks of parlor and board games are shoved into a book shelf adjacent to the bar while the open kitchen is set on the other side.

The ambiance appears to be aimed at the Jules Mae’s original clientele – lumberjacks, port traders and mariners – with hunter and gatherer decor, a piano that looks like it’s had its fair share of hammering and remnants of a possible floorboard spittoon.

Although she has her wrinkles and is supplied with a soundtrack by Boeing Field, Jules Mae’s looks damn fine for her age and should be taken in that context (that’s to you, angry Yelpers, it’s a dive bar for God’s sake and yes, their site is defective).

The Dish: The Flatliner ($9.75) — The dish that might bring your heart rate to a resting, stable line is rooted at its core through deliciously crunchy tater tots. Topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, onions, tomatoes, red bell peppers and a dollop of sour cream, this is Jules Mae’s hangover cure, locked and loaded with plenty of grease and carbohydrates. Ironically appetizing, in the same way a hipster wearing a Doogie Hauser tee is cool (NPH is so hot right now), these tots have tenacity and decades of fans to validate it.

The Variety: Pale Lager — German by heritage, the pale lager is gaining momentum with Northwest breweries, with its lighter flavors, slender frame and gentler hop bitterness. The most recognizable style is the Pilsner.

Why It Works: If you’re putting away the Flatliner due to prior alcohol abuse, a pale lager is tender beverage to pair with the food and your tum tum. The bright beer is hydrating as it cures the salivation from the salty tots and plays with the vibrant flavors of the cooked vegetables.

The Recommended Match: Maritime Pacific Brewing Old Seattle Lager ($4/pint) — Fitting not only by its title, the Old Seattle Lager is produced in the ideal clean and crisp style for bouncing off heavy, fried potato balls. According to 22-year-old Ballard brewery, they’ve created this brew “reminiscent of beers brewed in the early years of Seattle,” much like that of Jules Mae’s old neighbor, Rainier. With only 4.3% alcohol per volume, the lager is flavorful, light and thirst-quenching.

When old school collides with local microbreweries and Napoleon Dynamite’s number one vice, Jules Mae’s Saloon is there to save the day. 

Jules Mae’s Saloon | 5919 Airport Way S., Seattle | (206) 957-7766

How many times have you been to a restaurant and the first question you ask the waiter is “what’s good here?” It’s a loaded (and unfair) question, with generally one answer: “Everything!”

It’s a sensible question though because when trying out new restaurants, a hint of apprehension arises when presented with unfamiliar menus; a practical fear of ordering the wrong dish. These scenarios often lead us to our “fall back” restaurants—friendly confines, consistent service, and familiar food greeting us upon every visit. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, at least there’s an iPhone app that helps to eliminate such indecisiveness.

Chewsy offers a simple alternative to long-winded, all-encompassing restaurant commentary often found on sites such as Yelp! and Urban Spoon by limiting reviews to single dishes. Users can instantly grade their meal on a scale of one to five spoons, along with uploading a photo and adding comments. The results are then compiled, similar to online review sites. But rather than searching for and logging into Urban Spoon, Chewsy employs an easy-to-use interface that makes searching, scrolling and uploading a cinch.

Even though it’s a small Seattle-based start-up, Chewsy debuted in a big way a little more than a year ago, launching in major cities including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Vancouver, BC. It was born from the minds of a team of Microsofties led by Chaitanya Sareen, and is already making waves in the app world, thanks in large part to a first place finish at the 2011 Startup Riot in Seattle. The competition pitted 25 startup companies against each other, where each delivered a three-minute presentation to a panel of judges, followed by a three-minute question and answer session.

Competing apps have entered the marketplace since, but the Chewsy team is the pioneer, and it’s chock full of Seattle content, so give ‘em all the love. As for your next night out on the town, consult with the masses rather than rely on a waiter’s canned response.

Photo by Blair Barcellos.

Mackenzie Martin

22 | Seattle

Hometown: Silverdale, WA

Occupation: Social Media Manager at Social Werks Communications and Social Butterfly

WHY WE HEART THEM

It’s simple — there are too many reasons to name! However, for your sake we’ll nail down a select few favorite reasons why we heart Social Werks Communications’ Social Media Manager, Mackenzie Martin.

The first reason, she’s environmentally savvy and socially conscious to boot—basically, she is incredibly smart but also characteristically humble. We heart unpretentious smarty-pants. A recent UW graduate with a B.A in Urban and Social Geography and a Minor in Environmental Studies— Mackenzie held a two-year internship with the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development assisting the Regional Environmental Officer, conducting environmental reviews, aiding in public correspondence and organizing major events.

The second reason, she’s philanthropic and well-rounded. We heart philanthropy! As President of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta, she managed multiple philanthropy events during her tenure and helped raise nearly $20,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

She also helped initiate a partnership with a fellow sorority to bring the program ‘Kristin’s Story’ to the University of Washington for the first time. She is currently looking to get involved with an organization focused on the intersection between domestic violence and homelessness.

The third reason, she’s got a really neat job! We heart social media. Mackenzie landed her first job out of college with Social Werks Communications, the brainchild and start-up of fellow intriguing Seattleite and Ultimate Catch, Stephen Seo.  She works with Seo on innovative clients like, Voli Light Vodkas, Altrient, and Pacific Place.

As if those weren’t enough reasons to heart this Ultimate Catch, Mackenzie also volunteers as a Marketing Consultant for Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Young Patrons Group. She is a not-so-undercover foodie, “Sex and the City”and “Modern Family” addict (keep your paws off her full-season set), and puts her family and friends above anything else.

Are you intrigued and like what you see? Let us know! Email us at catch@seattleite.com.

Click here to see other 2012 Ultimate Catches!

“Can we talk?” – of course! Seattle will be welcoming Joan Rivers for her Benaroya Hall debut just three days after the telecast of the 2012 Academy Awards. Don’t miss out on this uncensored evening of standup by the internationally renowned comedienne, because this event is one night only. You will surely laugh the night away with Joan’s fearless and uninhibited humor.

If you don’t already know, Joan Rivers is a multi-talented entertainment legend – and by “multi,” she means: comedienne, Tony-nominated actress, best-selling author, Emmy Award-winning television talk show host, playwright, screenwriter, motion picture director, columnist, lecturer, radio host, jewelry designer and cosmetic company entrepreneur, red carpet fashion laureate, businesswoman and a mother and grandmother.

Joan’s compassion and humor has been celebrated in the entertainment industry for over four decades. Her most famous appearances include “Fashion Police” on E! and currently, her and her daughter, Melissa Rivers, have a reality show called “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best?”

Where: S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium at Benaroya Hall (200 University Street, Seattle)

When: Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 8 p.m.

How much: The Orchestra Floor tickets range from $29-$55, Founder’s Tier tickets are $55, Second Tier tickets are $42 and Third Tier tickets are $29. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling (206) 215-4747.

Why: The internationally famous comedienne is making a trip to Seattle for her Benaroya Hall debut. Seattle is proud to have this special guest as she headlines at the world’s most prestigious concert venues. Every where she goes, she embodies class, confidence and chutzpah, and her performances are dazzling. Known for her catchphrases “Can we talk?” and “Who are you wearing?” the woman who asks the questions spill the answers we all want to hear. Come enjoy this energy-filled evening with Joan Rivers, because everyone deserves a night to let loose with her brash humor.

An Evening with Joan Rivers at Benaroya Hall | Wednesday, Feb. 29 | 8 p.m.

8 oz. Burger Bar serves up salivating burgers in their new location on the corner of Broadway and Union. Seattleites can enjoy this California import’s lineup of grilled fare, as well as seasonal salads, sandwiches and a long list of crave worthy sides. 

Options include: the classic 8-ounce burger, coated in signature seasoning and cooked to perfection on a wood-fired grill; the Mykonos lamb burger topped with feta cheese, tzaziki and spinach; the free-range turkey burger; and customizable veggie burger. This joint won’t disappoint.

8 oz. Burgers uses only organic, hormone-free Black Angus, so there is no guilt as you sink your teeth into the meat. The restaurant also knows how to satisfy your sweet tooth. Classic treats like a banana split, orange creamsicle float and old fashioned milkshake are the classic ending to a classic meal. If you crave a libation with your meal, the restaurant is equipped with a full bar and offers 14 beers on tap.

8 oz Burger Bar  | 1401 Broadway, Seattle | (206) 466-5989

Photo by Charilie Ainslie.

Martin Gu

Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico

Occupation:  Engineer Associate for Starbucks

Why We Heart Them

Having moved here just under two years ago from Mexico, Martin’s love for the green movement and outdoors have made him feel right at home in Seattle.  His enthusiasm for sustainable architecture and a long list of credentials, helped him land a job as an Engineer Associate for Starbucks. Here, he works as a member of the High Performance Building Team.

After graduating with a Bachelors degree in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering from the Universidad Iberoamericana Ciudad de México, Martin obtained the credentials for professionals participating in the design and construction of high-performance and sustainable buildings.  He has since helped develop strategies for the LEED volume certification program as well as implementing and training them.

Martin went on to work with Earthship Biotecture’s founder and architect, Michael Reynolds, to build an authentic earthship.  In this project, Martin supported the team in gathering supplies, installation of sustainable energy systems and adapted American construction tactics to Mexican techniques.  This radically sustainable building made from recycled materials further demonstrates his dedication and love for sustainability.  Shortly following the earthship project, Martin found himself in Seattle as the Latin American region lead for building sustainable Starbuck’s buildings.

Martin’s long list of credentials may seem intimidating, but his spontaneous personality and adventurous nature is inspiring. A glimpse into this side of Martin is evident when he explains, “if I could change careers, I would be either a magician or a treasure hunter.”

Martin’s 2008 voyage, crossing the Atlantic in a sailboat, is further proof of his thirst for adventure.  He is proud of this expedition and now calls Seattle home. When Martin is not working to give us a “greener” tomorrow, you will find him exploring the city, snowboarding, scuba diving or reconstructing airplanes.

Are you intrigued and like what you see? Let us know! Email us at catch@seattleite.com.

Click here to see other 2012 Ultimate Catches!

]]> http://www.seattleite.com/we-heart-sustainable-leader-martin-gu/feed/ 1 http://www.seattleite.com/be-in-the-know-an-evening-with-the-stars/ http://www.seattleite.com/be-in-the-know-an-evening-with-the-stars/#comments Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:58:27 +0000 Ioana Andrei http://www.seattleite.com/?p=43095 Continue reading →]]> Hotel 1000 lets you celebrate the Oscars like a celebrity.

Slip into your most fabulous gown or dress up as your favorite celebrity and strut your stuff down the red carpet in celebration of the 84th Annual Academy Awards.

BOKA Kitchen + Bar will serve up the finest cocktails and tastiest hors d’oeuvres while the paparazzi (a.k.a. Team Photogenic) will capture your walk down the red carpet. Have a drink (or two) and feel like a starlet while watching the Oscars in as much style and glamour as the glitzy gala itself. Prizes will also be awarded to best dressed male, best dressed female, best dressed couple and the best celebrity look-alike.

Where: Hotel 1000 (1000 1st Avenue,  Seattle)

When: Sunday, Feb. 26 starting at 4 p.m.

How Much: A modest $75 buys you a welcome cocktail from CÎROC, delicious hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets. For and additional $20, get the VIP treatment with a celebrity worthy swag bag full of goodies from Molton Brown, Seattle Art Museum, Talking Rain, North Face, High Maintenance Bitch, Seattle Suntan, Yeah Cookie, Soft Lips, Lush and Urban Yoga. For the big spender, the Golden Ticket is $125, you get all the above and an entry in the grand prize drawing. You can also live like at celeb with their star-worthy overnight hotel rate starting at $149 a night.

Whether you want to have an excuse to dust off those prized stilettos or tuxedo, or get creative  impersonating your favorite celeb, this evening has something for everyone.

An Evening with the Stars at Hotel 1000 | Sunday, Feb. 26 | 6 p.m.

Rain gear doesn’t have to be boring…or black. Keep dry in style with some of these gorgeous and functional items, perfect for weathering the most Seattle weather can dream up.

1. Marimekko Floral Print Automatic Umbrella | $40 | Amazon

2. Flyweight Manual Travel Umbrella | $35 |REI

3. Fuchsia Rainstop Parka | $110 | Land’s End

4. Sperry Top-Sider Nautical Stripe Rain Boot | $55 on sale! | Zappos

5. Lightweight Wrap Scarf | $14 | Sears

The stars are shining brighter then ever this month as the Emmy-award winning Stars on Ice tour skate their way into the Emerald city. This premier event produced by skating legend Scott Hamilton combines competitive skating and artistic choreography to create a high-energy performance like none other.

Who: This years “Love ‘n’ Life” themed tour features both individual and ensemble routines from more then 10 Olympic, World, and National Champion skaters.

Four-time world and Canadian champion, Kurt Browning entertains and amazes with his performance to “I’m Yours” by Jason Miraz.

Kyoko Ina and John Zimmerman, three-time U.S. national champions and world bronze medalist show-off inventive moves and techniques while skating to “Johnny Got a Boom Boom” by Imelda May.

This years line up also includes Olympic Silver Medalist Sasha Cohen; two-time Olympic gold medalist Ekaterina Gordeeva, 1998 Olympic gold medalist Ilia Kulik, world champion and six-time U.S. national champion Todd Eldredge, 2010 Olympic bronze medalist Joannie Rochette, 2011 U.S. national champion Ryan Bradley, and two-time European bronze medalists and seven-time British national dance champions Sinead and John Kerr.

Where: The stars on Ice will be performing at the Key Arena at Seattle Center.

When: This is a one night only performance on Saturday, Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m.

How Much: Ticket prices range from $26-$143 and can be purchased online. Or why not experience this spectacular event as a VIP, which includes lower bowl center seating, a meet and great with two skaters and food and beverages for only $165 per person.

Why: In 1986, Scott Hamilton created the Stars on Ice tour as a new and different platform for competitive skaters to work towards. His mission was also to close the gap between professional skating and entertainment.

Now in its 26^th season, this premier figure skating production has performed more then 1,000 shows world wide showcasing skating legends such as Olympic Gold medalist, Kristi Yamaguchi, Katarina Witt, Dorothy Hamill and Torvill & Dean. The tour has also won three Emmy Awards, an ACE Cable Award for Best Sports Special and is recognized as the finest ice production in the world.

Seattle is one of ten lucky cities that get to experience this one-of-a-kind skating spectacular, so catch it before they skate onto the next city.

Stars on Ice at Key Arena | Saturday, Feb. 25| 5:30 p.m.

I once visited New Orleans. It was early January, the weather was in the 70s, the hotel was two blocks from Bourbon Street, and our group consisted of twenty rowdy high school kids with very few obligations. Needless to say, it was an action-packed week filled with beads, bare breasts and delicious beignets. Mardi Gras was a long way off, but in the eyes of a bewildered 15 year old, it might as well have been Fat Tuesday every night.

My recollection of the trip is hazy at best, mainly due to age and general lack of awareness, plus it was twelve years ago. I also haven’t been back since. Perhaps I’m just not ready to erase vague memories of my youth with the reality of an adult experience (okay, the real reason: I can’t afford it). I’ll be back someday though. But in the meantime, I’m content with a worthy local substitute: Toulouse Petit.

The Lower Queen Anne spot transports an authentic slice of French Quarter character and cuisine to the Northwest, thanks to an enormous menu of Big Easy fare. But perhaps its most underrated feature is the bar, which is gearing up for Toulouse’s annual Mardi Gras celebration (February 17th thru 21st) by rolling out a new drink menu to help with the revelry.

Crunk Juice, the guiltiest pleasure of the new offerings, combines Pearl blueberry and plum vodkas, margarita mix, cranberry juice and soda into a refreshing and appropriately purple-tinted drink—sorry, drank—that will be a choice option for Sunday Night’s Dirty South Industry Party. Be sure to dress up, because Mr. and Mrs. Crunk will be crowned at midnight, with the winner receiving a trip to Las Vegas.

Also planned for the long weekend—remember folks, President’s Day is Monday—is a Masquerade Ball Saturday night, and Monday night’s second annual Bartender Smackdown, featuring Maker’s Mark 46, where four local bartenders vie for a trip to Portland. The weekend culminates with a traditional Fat Tuesday blowout on February 21st, including a commencement brunch, the Market Street Dixieland Jass Band and a burlesque show. Day time entertainment consists of lunchtime jazz (Friday, Saturday, Monday) and the Total Experience Gospel Choir (Sunday).

Toulouse Petit  |  601 Queen Anne Ave N,  Seattle  |  (206) 432-9069

Isn’t it always nice when parents say, “Listen, my occupation has givin me and this family a lovely life.  That being said, I do not want this for you.” Lucky for us, Mari Tiscareno Lee and husband, Walter, didn’t listen, so after years of service in a law firm and the military respectfully, opened Chinos this winter, following their parental sets into the volatile world of restaurants.

Fun decorative table tops inside Chino's.

Both are from LA but have been living in and around Seattle since 2003, and couldn’t resist bringing a bit of tiki, heat, and plenty of peanuts to our cloudy abode.  (A well put allergy warning from the menu:  ”Chino’s uses LOTS of crushed peanuts and it gets everywhere.”)

To make the space feel even more like home, the couple took upon the decorating responsibilities as well, making sure LA staples like flower print table-clothes, murals, cinder blocks, and multiple representations of the Virgin Mary await, because let’s be honest, the sun just wasn’t making the trip.

Must Have Grub: Finger food is always nice, especially when it’s $1.  Two options can be found at such a bargain. 1.) a bowl of furikake (salty / sweet spice mix of seaweed and fish scales) kettle corn that will make you forget about all that wasabi fluff and 2.) a bucket of five-spice boiled peanuts still in the shell.

Five-Spiced Peanuts and Furikake Kettle Corn.

Moving up in price and portion, Chino’s gua bao (1 for $3 / 3 for $8), features a choice of either tender pork belly or tofu in a squishy steamed bun, topped with not-too-pickled pickled greens, and the aforementioned allotment of crushed peanuts.  Do yourself (and your companion?) a favor, and get three

Chino's Gau Bao.

Must Have Drinks:  Half of Chino’s cocktail menu (featured for $6 / $1 off others) is rum focused but ambiguously named. Venturing into (not so) familiar territory, I sipped on the aptly named Between the Sheets whose boozy ingredients (brandy, rum, Cointreau, lemon – for those counting at home, that’s only one pour sans alcohol!) were swirling, rich, and sure to put me to bed after a few, with or without a friend.  The beer run is highlighted with Mexican classics like cute, little Pacificos, but also strong Northwest options from the likes of Chuckanut Brewery in Bellingham.  Feel free to take a $1 off the drafts, and as dependable as LA gridlock, Chino’s has a glass of red or white wine for $5.  Need more?  Sake even sneaks on the menu at $6 a glass.  Now isn’t that just a perfect example of West (Best) Coast hospitality?

Happy Times: Sunday through Thursday 4 – 6 p.m.

Chino’s|  1024 E. Pike St, Seattle  |  (206) 860-4238

Photo by Cameron Elliott

MARK BODINET

Hometown: Chicago, Il

Occupation: Executive Chef at Cedarbrook Lodge/Copperleaf Restaurant

Why We Heart Them

In 2002, Mark earned his associates degree in Culinary Arts from The Art Institute of Phoenix.  After completing his degree, he assisted in the development of Opus, the Martha’s Vineyard seafood centric restaurant. In 2004, Mark moved to California’s Napa Valley to work at Thomas Keller’s world-renowned restaurant, French Laundry. Under the tutelage of Keller and his team, Mark experienced the demands of working for a top restaurant and in the process developed his own unique philosophy on food.

Fortunately for Seattliete foodies, Mark is now the Executive Chef at Cedarbrook Lodge’s Copperleaf Restaurant. Located near the Sea-Tac International Airport, Copperleaf has provided Mark with the opportunity to develop a menu and dining experience centered around his own philosophy primarily focusing on Sustainable Food Concepts and the use of “farm fresh” ingredients. Developing relationships with local farms has allowed him to succeed in providing customers of Copperleaf with fresh, sustainable and most importantly, delicious meals.

In his short time at Copperleaf, Mark has had an instant impact. The restaurant has received much local and national recognition.  Gayot.com named it one of their top ten new restaurants in the United States, it was Seattle Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant to Open in 2010” and Daily Green Magazine rated it as one of the best new sustainable restaurants in the United States.

When Mark is not cooking in the kitchen, he takes his Labrador Boomer to the park, plays golf, or roots for his favorite sports teams; the Chicago Bears, Cubs and Bulls.  He also volunteers his time by cooking for Farestart Seattle, a culinary job-training program for homeless and disadvantaged individuals, and volunteering for Tux and Tails, which supports the Seattle Humane Society.

Are you intrigued and like what you see? Let us know! Email us at catch@seattleite.com.

Click here to see other 2012 Ultimate Catches!

After an unexpected snow storm this past January in the Emerald City, comedian and Roastmaster General Jeff Ross had to cancel his original show date, but he is now back with his “Jeff Ross Roasts America” tour at the Neptune Theatre this Sunday, Feb. 19.

I chatted with Jeff on the phone about his tour and roasts, as well as “The Comedian” – a movie he recently wrote with producer Art Linson. The film, which begins shooting soon, will be directed by Sean Penn and star Robert De Niro and Kristin Wiig.

Seattleite: When does the tour start?

Jeff Ross: It starts in Portland and Seattle (Jan. 18-19). This is gonna be the launch of “Jeff Ross Roasts America.” I’m sitting here right now trying to think of jokes about Seattle, it’s like going in to battle. I read the papers, it sounds like you guys could use a laugh right now, a lot of grim crap going on.

S: Yeah there really is. But, our governor just came out in favor of gay marriage so it’s not all bad.

JR: Oh, well mazel tov, Seattle. We’ll celebrate. We’ll break the glass next week when I get there.

S: What is your approach to joke writing?

JR: It depends on what I’m writing. If I’m writing for a roast, I really have to sit down and attack it. It’s a discipline, like practicing guitar or anything else, it’s important to focus. You really want to zero in on what it is we all hate about someone.

S: How far is “too far” for you? Is there a line you won’t cross?

JR: I don’t think there’s a “too far,” but I think there is a “too much.” There’s no sense in piling it on, once you’ve made your point get out. Microscopic surgery, that’s my approach.

S: Do you prefer stand-up or roasts?

JR: That’s a great question. I think I’ve found this year, with this upcoming tour, that they have melded together for me. So the answer is that I love them both. My stand-up has become a roast, they live together in perfect harmony. As a matter of fact, I’m even bringing my guitar from high school, my Fender Strat, onstage. I feel like there’s a clash of influences happening with me on this tour. I’ve always had guitars that sat in my rooms and did nothing, so now I said, “well, I’m going on a 20-city tour, this guitar should have a life.” I don’t really know how to play it, but I figured I’d bring it along as a friend.

S: Is there anyone in particular that you would like to roast?

JR: Whoever’s next, you know? Whenever something new comes on the schedule, or if a good idea happens, my mind just goes right to it. So when I found out that I’m going to roast someone, I get just as excited about that one as I was about Charlie Sheen or anyone else I’ve roasted.

S: Who decides what gets cut from the roast? Do the comedians have any say in that?

JR: Usually the director will make that decision. He’s very careful to put in the jokes that get the biggest laughs. He doesn’t care about anything but the size of the laugh. Put the funniest s— in there.

S: Is this tour going to culminate in a new special?

JR: It’s looking that way. I’m gonna be taping my shows, so if you want to be in my next special I recommend coming to the show. And if you want to know what it’s like to be made fun of, here’s your chance. People always ask me how they can come to a roast, so I figured this was the next best thing. Sort of a traveling roast.

S: Talk a little bit about the movie that you wrote, “The Comedian,” that you’re going to start shooting soon.

JR: It’s one of those things, with Sean Penn directing, it’s very, very cool, and also very top secret. I will tell you that Robert De Niro will be hilarious in it.

S: Are you in the movie?

JR: I think so, probably. Yes, I think I am.

S: Do you have plans to pursue acting any more?

JR: Well if the role is a lot like me I get excited. But it’s always more fun to do your own material, so I think I get more excited about being on stage with real live people, saying whatever the hell I want. Nothing really tops that for me.

But every now and then, like if I’m a fan of the show I’ll get into it. I did an episode of “Children’s Hospital” on Adult Swim last season, and to me that’s one of the funniest shows on TV. I did an episode of “Batman” recently where I roasted the Joker and Batman, so when fun stuff and new adventures come along I’m always into it.

S: What do you think about Seattle the city and Seattle crowds?

JR: I find that Seattle people laugh harder than most crowds because I feel like it’s a passive-aggressive society (laughs). They don’t always get told the truth and it’s not really OK to laugh at politically incorrect ideas. And, you know, comedy comes from pain, and times are tough right now. So we all really need to loosen up.

S: We are kind of an uptight society up here.

JR: The Starbucks in my hotel closed down so now I have to walk across the street the other Starbucks.

S: That’s rough.

JR: I know, it’s sad.

Tickets ($26) for the show are available online. Visit Jeff Ross online for more information.

Jeff Ross at Neptune Theatre | 911 Pine St., Seattle  |  Thursday, Jan. 19 | 7:30 p.m. 

Photo by Ashley Genevieve.

KRISTA SIMONS

Hometown: Bothell, WA

Occupation: Event Planner and Owner of Prive Bartending & Events, Inc.

WHY WE HEART THEM

Krista is one accomplished Seattleite. In addition to owning and acting as the senior event coordinator of Privé Bartending & Events, Krista immurses herself in the Seattle lifestyle by participating in runs, attending concerts, and doing philanthropic work within the community.

While attending the University of Washington, Krista assisted at a local catering company where she first fell in love with the events industry.  After graduating in ’05, she worked with local venues, decor companies and caterers to further develop her skills. After 11 years in the industry, Krista decided to utilize her various experiences and founded her own event concierge business, Privé Bartending & Events, Inc. The Seattle-based company specializes in wedding and event planning, staffing, bartending and coordination.

Beyond her personal success in the events industry, Krista remains well-rounded by volunteering her time with numerous organizations. She works with the Junior High and High School Ministry Team at Eastlake Community Church  and is looking forward to participating in a mission trip to Tanzania this July. She is also the new Vice President of Procurement for Get Hitched Give Hope, a non-profit organization that partners with the Dream Foundation and raises money through auctions of wedding goods and services to grant wishes for terminally ill patients.

As if she isn’t busy enough, Krista makes sure to find time for her hobbies. She frequents concerts, loves to dance, and is always planning her next trip to an international destination.

This successful Seattleite’s mantra is, “life is short, I strive to live it to the fullest and make the most out of each day I am given.” And it is obvious by her accomplishments and volunteer work that she is succeeding in her goals.

Are you intrigued and like what you see? Let us know! Email us at catch@seattleite.com.

Click here to see other 2012 Ultimate Catches!

Check ‘em Out: In 2004, when four beach rats from Santa Barbara got together to jam in a purple haze of smoke, Rebelution unleashed their captivating blend of reggae and grassroots music to the public. Almost a decade later, with the release of their third album “Peace of Mind” the band has ignited free spirits, and loves across the Northwest, and gained a global following from performances in South American, Europe, as well as Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo in the US. They step outside their usual self production with the new album, which was number 13 on the Billboard top 200, and features stripped down acoustic versions of all tracks, as well as a dub mix.

“This tour has been our best yet so far. Most of the shows have been sold out, and when that many people are excited to see us we take that energy and put it into the best live show we can give back. So far the tour has only been on the east coast so we’re anxious to get back to the best coast. There’s something comfortable for us being in the pacific northwest, probably because it’s one of the first places we started touring. We haven’t been to Seattle since our new album Peace of Mind came out so we’re eager to see their response to the new music we’ll be featuring.”- Wesley Finley, Drummer, Rebelution.

When/Where: Saturday, February 25^th, doors 8:00 p.m. at the Showbox SoDo

Tickets: $22.50 in advance, all ages find tickets here.

Rebelution at Showbox Sodo | 1700 1st Avenue South,  Seattle |(206) 652-0444

Fancy is often embellished as a synonym for expensive. Although this is certainly the case in many circumstances, fancy isn’t too shabbily priced out for food and drink at the glamorous Fairmont Olympic Hotel downtown. While residing within the delicately papered walls lit by intricately assembled chandeliers might come at a steeper sum, indulging in your epicurean passions does not.

What is typically more exorbitant than not is crab. Growing up with a family cabin nestled above the Hood Canal, I have been spoiled with the riches of the water since I was a kid. Now that I’m (somewhat) grown up and have to purchase said seafood splendors, price is more than I want to give up. Searching for value associated with quality seafood takes some digging but thankfully for us Seattleites, our location is prime.

The location of the Fairmont Olympic Hotel also has its history here in the Pacific Northwest. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, hotel has been a landmark in Seattle since opening in 1924. The Italian renaissance architecture flows throughout the entire building and its 450 rooms. Fully-equipped with two restaurants with divergent themes, in-room dining and a Mad Men-esque martini bar tucked next to the stunning Garden room, any location is an ideal one to dine.

The Restaurant: The Georgian — With 20 years in the belt as a AAA 4 Diamond restaurant, the French-inspired Northwest cuisine is prepared by Executive Chef Gavin Stephenson and served within the sweeping landscape of the room’s ceiling-to-floor windows and English tea atmosphere. Napkins are dropped by the server in your lap, your water glass is never only half full and you could take a post-meal nap in your cozy booth. Although the furniture might resemble your grandmother’s prized furnishing you weren’t allowed to ruffle as a child, the staff is gracious, comforting and happy to see you.

The Dish: Lusciously Louie Salad ($13 appetizer, $16 entree) — Crowned king of the salads with its name in an odd tribute to King Louis XIV, the crab Louie itself is said to have been created by Louis Davenport, the entrepreneur and founder of Spokane’s Davenport Hotel. Story has it Davenport spent his early hotel years in San Francisco and had crab from Seattle shipped down to offer in his restaurant. From one hotel to another, the Georgian’s louie is quite luscious with generous helpings of crab with shredded iceberg lettuce, slivered bell peppers and eggs with diced onions and the sumptuously binding Louie dressing.

The Variety: Sauvignon Blanc — One of the two noble white grape varieties of Bordeaux (other is Sémillon), this varietal is naturally a green skinned grape and loosely translates to “wild white” in reference to its indigenous growth in Southwest France. As a wine, Sauvignon Blanc is dry, crisp and fresh, with varying levels of elegance to do its region and the soils. New Zealand grows the popular “fresh-cut grass” style while Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc is typically mineral-influenced and graceful.

Why It Works: A dish as rich and heavy as crab and its dressing needs a beverage with ample acidity to cut up the opulence, fruit to complement its sweetness and a rounding finish to satisfy the cold edge of salad. Washington Sauvignon Blanc (which also sometimes appears at Fume Blanc in this state) range from tart and herbaceous to tropical fruit-filled and lively.

The Recommended Match: Matthews Cellars 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley ($20) — Like the above mentioned Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc, this Woodinville producer strives to match the polished and poised style of Sancerre. Blended with 6% Sémillon for some fattening, this vintage was heftier for acidity which weighs in Sauvignon Blanc’s favor.

Matthews Cellars SB has always been a stand out with its wet stone minerality, lime peel and grapefruit aromas, backed by flavors of green apple and melon. The traces of savory herbs and crisp citrus scream for a rich, round counterpart like crab.

The Georgian at Fairmont Olympic Hotel | 411 University St, Seattle | (206) 621-7889

Join other cider connoisseurs for an evening to sample tastes you won’t find at your local grocer. The Northwest Cider Association (NWCA) is hosting its second annual Cider Maker’s Dinner. You’ll be able to ask actual cider makers all your burning questions about the cider-making process while sampling member’s concoctions.

Cider offered at the first Cider Maker's Dinner. Photo courtesy of David White/flickr.

The NWCA was founded in 2010 as a trade organization formed by cider producers throughout the Pacific Northwest. Its mission is to promote awareness of regional artisanal ciders and perry among the public. Craft cider is made with traditional methods and heirloom apple varieties, and is a deliciously historic beverage that’s making a remarkable comeback in the Pacific Northwest.

The dinner will feature a savory menu paired with the finest ciders, like Eaglemount’s Ginger Cider infused grilled beef sirloin crostini, to Wandering Aengus’s Bloom Cider Seckel Pear and gorgonzola crostini, and greenbeans drizzled with cider reduction with Finnriver’s Dry Hopped Cider and Alpenfire’s Eber Cider roasted chicken and cardamom apple chutney made with Alpenfire’s Pirate’s Plank Bone Dry Cider.

The savory dinner will end on a sweet note with vanilla genoise filled with caramelized Sea Cider’s Pippins apples and Tieton’s Apricot Cider sabayon with a cinnamon buttercream.

Who: Guests will be able to taste many of the NWCA’s beverages as they learn about the cider process from orchard to glass. During the first hour of the event guests can enjoy a casual open bar with appetizers, taste samples from member cideries, and speak with the cider makers.

Where: Hosted at The Yacht Club on Lake Union, the dinner will be catered by Ravishing Radish, which is known for its commitment to local, seasonal ingredients. Each of the three courses prepared by chef JoAnna Cruz will be paired with a different Northwest craft cider.

The Yacht Club on Lake Union (3220 Fairview Avenue East) is a popular venue for social events, and, true to its name, boasts a beautiful view of Lake Union. Guests can enjoy the scenic landscape while sipping sweet ciders and conversing with the cider makers.

When: The dinner will take place Saturday, Feb. 25 from 6 to 10 p.m.

How Much: Tickets can be reserved online (last chance for tickets is Feb. 16 at midnight), and are $80 for members of the NWCA and $85 for nonmembers.

Cider Maker’s Dinner at The Yacht Club on Lake Union | Saturday, Feb. 25 | 6 p.m.

Photo by Charlie Ainslie.

CLANE GESSEL

Hometown: Kent, WA

Occupation: Visionary Photographer and Owner of the Clane Gessel Photography Gallery

WHY WE HEART THEM

The creative and talented Clane Gessel is one of the most sought after photographers in the Northwest. Clane’s unique style and artistic vision have attracted audiences worldwide.  His love for life and the outdoors are what inspire his career in both landscape and wedding photography.  Clane is an award-winning photographer whose images have been featured in magazines including Seattle Bride and Photo District News. He also holds the prestigious title of being the official photographer for the Seattle Space Needle.

Before Clane knew photography was his passion, he moved to Utah where he discovered his love for landscape photography.  But it was Clane’s love for Seattle that brought him back, “I always knew the only place I wanted to be was Seattle.  The creative base here inspires and encourages new and open ways of thinking.”  Upon his arrival, Clane was asked to shoot a friends wedding — and the rest was history.

“Everybody loves photography — it’s a way to visually express yourself and show your vision.  I decided to start shooting to show my vision of how I see things,” says Clane.  “My love of the outdoors and getting people excited about the great place we live is why I love landscapes.  I choose to do weddings because of the people aspect.”

Clane takes advantage of the environment that is Washington.  He enjoys skiing, hiking, camping and anything outdoors.  When he happens to have time off work he watches and plays rugby, hangs out with friends, and most importantly, travels.  While Clane’s job often takes him around the U.S. and abroad, he also enjoys road trips to the desert for camping and vacations to tropical beaches, such as Bora Bora, where he can relax and snorkel.

When Clane is not occupied with shoots or traveling around the world, he volunteers with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Clane’s passion for the CFF came from a friend who was diagnosed.  Clane figured working through the foundation was his way to give back. When his friend passed away in 2010, Clane’s efforts with the foundation continued – he has now given more than a dozen family shoots and plenty of hours to the CFF in his friends honor.

Keeping in toe with his charitable personality, Clane also volunteers for Soulumnation and Seattle’s Luekemia and Lymphona Society, where he performs free remembrance shoots. “I love giving back, especially helping to capture memories for those who may not have a lot of time left here.”

Are you intrigued and like what you see? Let us know! Email us at catch@seattleite.com.

Click here to see other 2012 Ultimate Catches!

My parents were in town recently, and you know what that means – lots of good food. I wanted to try Purple for a long time and figured this would be the perfect opportunity because they’re huge wine lovers. I know what you’re thinking – “Purple and Dine on a Dime? It can’t be!” But it can. You could go in and order separate entrees, or instead split a few dishes from their tasting menu. They also do wine pairings for $5 each.

Not only is the food fantastic, the dining room (in their downtown Seattle location) is beautiful. A spiral staircase wraps around the floor to ceiling wine tower in the middle of the restaurant, and wall-to-wall windows provide a great view of the city.

Meal steals: Purple’s three best tasting bar dishes under $10

The gorgonzola stuffed dates ($6) are a nice, small start. Sweet dates are stuffed with creamy gorgonzola, then garnished with pine nuts and saba, a syrup made from grape juice. Sweet and savory is hard to beat.

For a seafood option, the ahi tuna poke ($7) comes in a soy sauce marinade with red bell peppers, Serrano and nori, or seaweed.

Another option is the housemade spreads ($3.5 each). Feta-walnut, edamame hummus and roasted garlic-white bean spreads are served with crackers and flatbread.

Spring for the wine pairing for at least one of the dishes – they make great recommendations. If you feel like being a little more spendy – Valentine’s Day is coming up, impress your lover – the cheese and wine flights are fantastic, as are a number of the entrees.

Purple Café and Wine Bar | Four locations | (206) 829-2280 for downtown location

The Act: The Presidents of the United States of America has been Seattle’s proud American alternative rock sensation since the early 90’s. Two childhood friends, Chris Ballew and Dave Dederer teamed up to form the band in 1990 and was later joined by Jason Finn, their drummer and vocalist, after their demo tape began to circulate around the Seattle musical community. Shortly after, PUSA became one of the most popular bands in Seattle and in the summer of 1995, they released their career launching song “Lump.” Their goofy personalities, simple chords and poppy melodies brought out the inner-child of their fans.

These three men continued to produce big hits such as “Peaches” (1996) until lead vocalist and “basitarist”, Chris Ballew, once left the band in 1997. However, the popular band reunited three years later — which also was followed by another break after releasing their third album, “Freaked Out and Small” (2000). After PUSA finally came back in 2004, “guitbassist” and vocalist Andrew McKeag replaced Dave Dederer.

Caspar Babypants aka Chris Ballew, Presidents of the United States.

PUSA has released six studio albums since their band established and is a twice Grammy-nominated group. As Seattelites, they have made exciting appearances such as Bumbershoot, the Seahawks Game halftime and the University of Washington.

Also Pacific Northwest musicians, John Roderick and No-Fi Soul Rebellion will be opening the show.

When: Friday, Feb. 17 at 8 p.m.

The Venue: The Showbox at the Market (1426 1st Ave, Seattle)

Tickets: $20 (here)