REMINDER: The 6th Annual Poverty Bay Wine Festival kicks off tonight (Friday, March 5th) with a black-tie “A Night in the Vineyard” gala party starting at 7:30pmat the Landmark Event Center in Des Moines.

Gala tickets are $75 in advance or $85 at the door, and include a buffet catered by Anthony’s HomePort, unlimited wine tasting, and live music by the Steve Ryals Trio and Ed Taylor & TaylorMade, plus free admission to the wine tasting event on Saturday or Sunday. Several premium wines and other exclusive items will be offered at a silent auction.

Sponsored by the Des Moines Rotary Club, this annual wine festival will run through Sunday March 7th at the historic and grand Landmark Event Center (formerly Landmark on the Sound) in Des Moines. Guests will enjoy live jazz and great food while tasting wines from 25 Northwest wineries.

“The wine festival gala is the hottest ticket in town,” says Des Moines Rotary President Lisa Meineke. “Everybody has a great time! People come back year after year. And this year we have new wineries and more wineries than ever before.”

The fun continues on Saturday and Sunday, with more wine tasting, food, and live music. Saturday’s music line-up includes Darren Motamedy and 4th Degree. On Sunday, it’s Rouge and Billet-Deux. Local restaurants and gourmet food vendors will sample breads, cheeses, smoked salmon, chocolates and other fine fare.

Tickets for Saturday and Sunday are just $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Gala tickets are $75 in advance or $85 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at Corky Cellars in Des Moines (206-824-9462) or at www.dmrotary.org.

Through the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, the Rotary Club of Des Moines has raised over $150,000 in its five-year history. All proceeds fund a wide variety of charitable projects, including college scholarships, grants to local schools, safety and recreation programs for children, yard projects for elderly residents, support for the local food bank and the homeless, and projects to assist needy people as far away as South Africa and Pakistan.

“People can come to the wine festival to have fun and discover some great wines and feel really good about what they are contributing to the community at the same time,” says wine festival chair Brian Snure. “There are so many needs in our community and in our world right now. What better way to give?”

HOURS:

• Saturday, March 6:  12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday March 7: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

WINERIES:

• Canyon’s Edge
• Chandler Reach
• Covington Cellars – NEW
• Coyote Canyon Winery – NEW
• Burien’s own E.B. Foote Winery (BTB Advertiser)
• Eaton Hill
• Erin Glenn
• Fall Line
• Five Star Cellars
• Fort Walla Walla Cellars – NEW
• Kestrel – NEW
• Knipprath – NEW
• Masset Winery
• Otis Kenyon
• Page Cellars
• Pondera – NEW
• Sleeping Dog
• Sodo Vino – NEW
• Stina’s Cellar
• Two Vintners – NEW
• Vashon Winery
• Vin du Lac – NEW
• Waving Tree
• Willis Hall
• Windy Point

MUSIC:

• Friday, March 5 (Gala):
  • Steve Ryals Trio , Ed Taylor and TaylorMade
• Saturday, March 6:
  • 12:30-3:00:  Darren Motamedy Duo
  • 3:30-6:30: 4th Degree
• Sunday, March 7:
  • 12:30-2:30: Rouge
  • 3:00-5:00: Billet-Deux

For more information, please visit www.dmrotary.org. We’ll see you there tonight!

Here’s another great reason to attend the upcoming Poverty Bay Wine Festival this coming weekend – a parade of MINI Coopers will end up at the Landmark Event Center on Sunday, March 7th sometime shortly after Noon.

The parade will start at the south end of the Des Moines Marina, where MINIs will congregate at Anthony’s Home Port (421 S. 227^th St.) at Noon, then motor on up to the Landmark Event Center and park in the front parking spaces (excluding handicapped, etc.).

As everyone knows, it’s always cool to see one unusual, groovy MINI Cooper. Now imagine 20 or more, all detailed, each unique in its own way, cruising in, parking and showing off.

If you’re a MINI Cooper enthusiast (Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer drives one), and you’re interested in being in this parade of fun and funky little MINIs, you should consider joining the Puget Sound MINI Motoring Club at their website here.

This will be the second specialty sports car event at the fest – as you may recall, the Tyee Triumph Car Club will be displaying their classic Triumph cars on Saturday, March 6th (read our coverage here).

To buy tickets for the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, click here, or visit CorkyCellars (206-824-9462), Des Moines Drug, and/or purchase directly from any Des Moines Rotary Club member. All proceeds go to the service projects of the Rotary Club of Des Moines.

For more information, including details on wineries, food vendors and entertainment at the fest, read our previous coverage here.

A very unique 9-liter bottle of Five Star Cellars 2006 Cabernet Savignon will be raffled off at the Poverty Bay Wine Festival next weekend (Saturday, March 6th & Sunday, March 7th) at the historic Landmark Event Center in Des Moines.

This one-of-a-kind, big, beautiful bottle contains nine liters – equal to a full case of wine (!) – and is engraved with the Poverty Bay Wine Festival emblem on one side, and the Five Star label on the other.

This 2006 Cab was rated 91 points by Wine Spectator and 94 points by the Beverage Tasting Institute – that means it’s an excellent case of wine in one big bottle!

No purchase is necessary– this is a drawing for anyone who wants to enter – but you will have to show up at the festival, which is just $20 per person; for that amount, you’ll also receive a souvenir wine glass and 10 tokens, a sampling of delicious foods, and live music both days.

Also, for all you non-wine drinkers out there, Pike’s Brewing will also have a booth.

The value of the wine plus the engraving is $1,000!

The opening night Gala will be this Friday, March 5th at 7:30pm at the Landmark Event Center. The theme is A Night in the Vineyard. A lavish buffet will be provided by Anthony’s HomePort. Tickets for the gala are $75 in advance, $85 at the door. The ticket price includes food, entertainment, and wine.

Wine Fesival tickets are priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets for the Wine Festival and Gala are available at Corky Cellars, located at 22511 Marine View Drive in Des Moines (206-824-9462); or online at www.dmrotary.org.

Poverty Bay Wine Festival is the major annual fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Des Moines.

For full details on the festival, check out our previous coverage here.

BTB Advertiser E. B. Foote Winery will be holding a special “Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s Disease” event the weekend of March 18 – 21st.

Ten percent of all sales donated to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Rich Higginbotham, co-owner/winemaker who died of the disease in 2008 (read our coverage here).

Envelopes will also be available so visitors can make a donation directly to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To further honor Rich, his wife Sherrill Miller has made a special wine called “Remembrance” and she donates 50% of the purchase price to the Alzheimer’s Association for a particular research project being headed by Dr. Brian Kraemer. Remembrance is a 2007 vintage blend of 60% Cabernet, 30% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, with grapes from three different Columbia Valley vineyards, including Milbrandt, Graves and Arianses. When all of this wine is sold, more than $100,000 will be raised for research on Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and a new case of Alzheimer’s is diagnosed every 70 seconds. More than 5.3 million people have Alzheimer’s and that number continues to grow.

Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s Disease, featuring wine tasting of six current releases including Remembrance along with snacks, will be held on:

• Thursday, March 18: 5-8 p.m.
• Friday, March 19: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, March 20: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday, March 21: Noon – 6 p.m.

The event has a $5 tasting fee, which is applied toward a purchase of a bottle of wine. Sherrill reminds customers to dress warmly, as E.B. Foote is a working (and cool…literally) winery.

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127-B SW 153rd St. in Burien, and is open for tasting Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Sherrill Miller at E.B. Foote Winery:

• Phone: 206-242-3852
• Email: winemaker@ebfootewinery.com
• Website: www.ebfootewinery.com
  

The Tyee Triumph Car Club will be displaying their classic Triumph cars at this year’s Poverty Bay Wine Festival on Saturday, March 6th.

“At last count it appears we will have 17 or 18 cars at the Landmark for display,” said club president John Gebert, who himself owns five Triumphs. “We plan to park them in the spaces at the front entrance of the building, leaving ample room for two lanes of traffic for the buses, handicapped, etc. Our plans are to have a club meeting 10am at my home in Des Moines, and then parade down Marine View to the Landmark Event Center so we can be ready for display by Noon.”

The LBC’s (aka Little British Cars) should stay in the parking lot until around 3pm.

Geber adds: “The majority of our members are buying tickets to participate in your Festival and looking forward to a great time. They are excited about the opportunity to display their cars as well as the drive to get there. Thanks for helping get the word out…the best way you could help us would be to provide a clear and sunny day…but, we’ll be there no matter!”

John tells us that the club currently has over 50 active members who all have at least one Triumph car in various states of repair and renovation.

“Of note, we pride ourselves on being a ‘driving’ club in which the majority of our cars are on the road and used regularly,” he said. “You won’t meet many members with ‘trailer queens’,” said John.

More info on the Tyee Triumph Club is available at their website.

To buy tickets for the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, click here, or visit CorkyCellars (206-824-9462), Des Moines Drug, and/or purchase directly from any Des Moines Rotary Club member. All proceeds go to the service projects of the Rotary Club of Des Moines.

(Photos courtesy the Tyee Triumph Club)

The Animals First Foundation is holding another Charity Wine Tasting Event at Burien’s Vino Bello this Friday, Feb. 19th from 6:30pm to 9:30pm to help raise money to care for rescued animals.

For a $20 donation, you’ll receive two drinks and snacks, along with live music and a silent auction on one-of-a-kind paintings.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Charity Wine Tasting Event for Animals First Foundation

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 19th, from 630pm—9:30pm

WHERE: Vino Bello, located at 636 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien

INFO: From their poster:

Something For All Your Senses

Join Animals First Foundation at Vino Bello in Burien: Friday, Feb. 19th from 6:30pm – 9:30pm.

• Touch – An Animal’s Life
• Smell – Partylite Candles
• Hear – Woodrush
• See – Original Artwork
• Taste – Divine Wine

Your $20 donation includes two drinks, snacks and live music. From 6:30-9:30pm bid on one of a kind paintings.

Come by and check out some of the items from PartyLite Gifts Fundraising Program; AFF will receive 50% of the profits (items will be shipped to AFF).

Enjoy the fabulous music of Woodrish from 8pm-9:30pm.

All proceeds will go to Animals First Foundation to help with the cost of giving a rescued animal the best of care and preparation on its road to a better life.

Want to buy your ticket early and guarantee a space? Call 206-331-7440 or visit our website at www.animalsfirstfoundation.org and click the donate button to make your $20 donation!

Must be 21.

Animals First Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Seattle dedicated to supporting and promoting the preservation and well being of animals, both domestic and wild.

We’re huge fans of Photography here at The B-Town Blog, and while we are only rarely able to achieve it, we always appreciate it, honor it, and encourage others to experience it.

I mean, have you ever really thought about Photography? How it’s almost a kind of magic that can capture a moment in time and turn it into beautiful art? And how cool it is that in this nascent digital age that more and more magical moments are being captured by more people than ever before?

Nah…neither did we.

But seriously, that’s why we’re promoting a show opening Friday night, Feb. 12th, at Vino Bello, featuring Jason Smith, a Seattle-based photographic printer. This guy’s done tons of work for other artists, much of which has been exhibited internationally, and now it’s his turn to display his own hand-processed and hand-printed true black-and-white images right here in Burien.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Jason Smith Photographic Exhibit.

WHEN: Open reception is Friday night, Feb. 12th from 6pm – 9pm.

WHERE: Vino Bello, located at 636 SW 152nd in downtown Burien.

The Rotary Club of Des Moines has announced that their Sixth Annual Poverty Bay Wine Festival will be held on Saturday, March 6th, from Noon– 7pm, and Sunday, March 7th from Noon – 5pm at the historic Landmark Event Center (formerly Landmark on the Sound) just down the road in Des Moines.

The opening night gala will be held Friday night, Mar. 5th, beginning at 7:30pm.

This festival is a must for anyone who loves wine, as well as for anyone who wants to support the work of Rotary, which supports schools and families in our community and around the world or anyone who enjoys an afternoon of good food, good wine and great music.

“The wine festival is an opportunity for wine-lovers to come taste samples from 25 Northwest wineries,” said Rotary spokesperson Catherine Carbone-Rogers. “All of the wineries typically offer two, three, or four different wines. Each winery will have wine by the bottle for sale. The festival is also a great opportunity to see the newly-restored Landmark Event Center, a unique architectural gem of the Des Moines community. Many people have driven by for years but have never had the opportunity to see the interior.”

What can participants expect while at the event? Besides the wine tasting from 25 Northwest wineries, there will also be a sampling of food from local restaurants, along with numerous musical guests throughout the festival. Here’s the preliminary lineup:

Friday, March 5 (Gala):

• Steve Ryals Trio
• Ed Taylor and TaylorMade

Saturday, March 6:

• Darren Motamedy Duo
• 4th Degree

Sunday, March 7:

• Rouge
• Billet-Deux

For just $20, participants receive a souvenir wine glass and 10 tokens, a sampling of delicious foods, and live music. What if you run out? Don’t worry, there’ll be tokens for sale at the event.

And for all you non-wine drinkers, Pikes Brewing will also have a booth.

Major sponsors are Anthony’s HomePort, 98.9 KWJZ, Landmark Event Center, Fred Meyers, Powell Brothers Custom Homes, Highline Times/Des Moines News, Kent Reporter and The Waterland Blog and its sister sites.

The opening night Gala will be Friday, March 5th at 7:30pm at the Landmark Event Center. The theme is A Night in the Vineyard. A lavish buffet will be provided by Anthony’s HomePort. Tickets for the gala are $75 in advance, $85 at the door. The ticket price includes food, entertainment, and wine.

Wine Fesival tickets are priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets for the Wine Festival and Gala are available at Corky Cellars, located at 22511 Marine View Drive in Des Moines (206-824-9462); or online at www.dmrotary.org.

Poverty Bay Wine Festival is the major annual fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Des Moines. Lisa Meineke is the club President and Brian Snure is chair of the wine festival.

The main purpose is to raise funds for the charitable projects of the Rotary Club of Des Moines that include:

• Financial and volunteer support of Des Moines Food Bank
• Financial and volunteer support for Fireworks Over Des Moines on the Fourth of July annually
• “Dictionaries by the Dozens”: Rotary provides a new children’s dictionary to every third grade student in Des Moines
• Mini-grants of up to $1000 to schools or teachers in Des Moines for special projects
• College scholarship of $2,500 to a Highline Community College student
• Pacific Middle School essay contest
• Funding for after school program at Pacific Middle school
• Financial support to Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence, a non-profit benefiting Highline Public Schools
• Financial support for a women’s shelter in South Africa
• Purchase of sewing machines for women in Peru so they can generate income

“We hope to have more attendees than ever this year,” Carbone-Rogers added. “Each year, we have taken the wine festival up a notch with the number of wineries, the entertainment, and the food. The gala is classier every year, and the Landmark Event Center is an amazing venue. We also hope that people coming to the event will get interested in Rotary and join us in our work to support community causes and families,” she added.

For more information on the Des Moines Rotary, please click here: http://dmrotary.org/aboutrotary.php.

BTB Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery wants all our loving Readers to know about their upcoming “Red Wine and Chocolate” event, which begins Thursday, Feb. 4th.

Nothing says looooove much better than red wine and chocolates, doncha think?

Here are the tasty details:

WHAT: “Red Wine and Chocolate” at E. B. Foote Winery

WHEN: Dates and times are:

• Thursday, Feb. 4, 5 pm – 8 pm
• Friday, Feb. 5, 11 am – 8 pm
• Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 am – 6 pm
• Sunday, Feb. 7, Noon – 6 pm
• Sunday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day, Noon – 6 pm

WHERE: E.B. Foote Winery, located at 127 SW 153rd St. lower level, Burien; (206) 242-3852; www.ebfootewinery.com

COST: $10 tasting fee, applied toward bottle purchase (No tasting fee for Wine Club members)

INFO: “Enjoy dozens of chocolates along with our current and newly released red wines.  We will be sampling red wines including the new releases. No reservations needed! Get a friend or two and drop in during these hours.”

Scheduled for release:

• 2006 Merlot
• 2007 Northwest Duet
• 2006 Perfect à Trois

More information available at E.B. Foote’s website here.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

by Gina Bourdage

Set in the familiar location of Snoqualmie Pass, an unlikely group of travelers find themselves trapped by the snow-closed passes in “Snowbound,” which opens Friday, Jan. 15th at BTB Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery.

In the solitude of a quaint local inn, each guest is faced with conflicting personal struggles, not only with themselves but with the other guests as well. Learning that the local sheriff (a guy reminiscent of Barney Fife, played by Scott Green) is looking for an escaped convict only adds to their heightened sense of self preservation and sends each person seeking answers about who they can trust and what they are really looking for.

The cast of this Breeders Theater production showcases an array of experienced talent, all of whom holds your attention and keeps you guessing. Each actor brings a unique perspective to their role, including:

• Binky (played by Brenan Grant) the “emo” young man who relishes in his own misery.
• Lovely (played by Teresa Widner) whose out of control hormones seem to be too much for even her to handle at times let alone her trail of conquests.
• Ike (played by Martin J. Mackenzie) the innkeeper who had such a convincing of role of the friendly small town fellow whose trustworthy and friendly nature draws people to him.
• Glenda (played by Kelly Johnson), Binky’s mother, shows hints of a 50s sitcom housewife whose traditional values are challenged by raising a rebellious young man.
• Hank Thompson (played by Andrew Smith) the seemingly sincere, reliable and at times dryly sarcastic chef finds himself thrown into uncomfortable positions of his fellow traveler’s dilemmas.
• The young couple “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (played by Stephen Scheide and Laura Smith) who find themselves in a suspicious bind that even they are unsure of how to resolve.

Each guest is presented with the overwhelming concern of not only wanting to avoid an encounter with the escaped convict, they have to question; could the convict be among them? Distracted by only their own egotistical veils, each person reveals humorous and deeper struggles among each other.

While I found each performance to be well played, I struggled with the level of general air-headedness that most of the women and at times the men possessed. Being confused is one thing, but as the script rolled along the naivety prevailed leaving me to question the characters’ intended intelligence.

The lack of an actual set was at first distracting for me; however the actors/characters got and kept my attention quickly enough for me to get past it. The theater in the round, or more like “audience as bookends,” might be new for some viewers, but brings a complete perspective to the show and allows you to see each scene as if you were actually there.

All in all this TM Sell play directed by Michael Brunk was humorous, charming and engaging while bringing a level of the traditional whodunnit to an unsuspecting ending that I can only say was jarringly layered and thought-provoking.

I would recommend not missing this performance of “Snowbound,” especially for Alfred Hitchcock and Twilight Zone fans, as the references are abundant…just be sure to bring a coat.

No, seriously – it can get a little chilly at E.B. Foote Winery this time of year.

Tickets are $20, and include the play, hors d’oeuvres and a wine tasting by E.B. Foote.

You can purchase them at the winery (127-B SW 153rd in Burien; 206-242-3852), at CorkyCellars in Des Moines (206-824-9462) or online here.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• Non-Reviewer Doesn’t Review Breeders Theater’s “Snowbound”
• PHOTOS: Behind-The-Scenes Peak At Breeders Theater’s “Snowbound”
• The Pass May Be Closed, But Tickets Are Now On Sale For Breeders Theater’s “Snowbound”

B-Town Blog Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery is having their Christmas Open House this weekend, beginning Thursday, Dec. 3rd and continuing through Sunday, Dec. 6th.

From their Footenotes:

While you sample six wines you can check out the new gift items in the gift shop.  We have some great stocking stuffers like coasters, candles, kitchen towels, wine-scented bath salts and shower gel, wine openers, wine stoppers, wine sayings, jewelry, wine-flavored pretzels, sugar cookie mix, wine cake mix, and more.  We also have larger items like banners with wine sayings, shirts, aprons, wine-themed tree ornaments, and….of course WINE!
Join us:

• Thursday, Dec. 3rd: 5 pm – 8 pm
• Friday, Dec. 4th: 11 am – 8 pm
• Saturday, Dec. 5th: 11 am – 6 pm
• Sunday, Dec. 6th: Noon – 6 pm

There is a $5 tasting fee (cash only) which is applied toward a bottle purchase. No tasting fee for Wine Club members or Volunteer Vintners.

Our tasting order will be:

• 2008 Chardonnay
• ETC.  (Bronze Medal winner)
• Rainy Day Red V (Syrah-Cabernet, Silver Medal winner)
• Founder’s Red (Cabernet Franc, Silver Medal winner)
• 2005 Merlot (Gold Medal winner)
• Remembrance  (89 Points from Wine Spectator)

Remembrance was made in tribute to owner/winemaker Rich Higginbotham, who passed away last year from Alzheimer’s.  The wine is a 2007 Cabernet-Merlot-Cab Franc blend.  It has already earned two Silver Medals, and Wine Spectator recently awarded it 89 points.   60% of the purchase price is donated to Alzheimer’s for research.  So far more than $24,000 has been donated!  Thank you for your support of Alzheimer’s research!

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127-B SW 153rd Street in Burien; Tel: 206-242-3852.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, event listing and/or Ad like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 40,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery is having a party! And not just any party, they’ve invited Wayne Miller and Friends over to the winery to entertain you and your friends with some jazz and wine tasting on Sunday, Nov. 22nd from 6pm – 8pm (doors open at 5:30) at this area’s only winery.

Wayne is the brother of E.B. Foote Winery’s owner/winemaker Sherrill Miller. A Des Moines native, Wayne plays guitar and keyboard and does the computer backup; Mike Conner plays sax and a drummer, Peter Boardway join him as his Friends.

Tickets are just $10 each and will include music, wine sampling and snacks. Advance purchase is recommended. Tickets are available by visiting or calling the winery or by clicking here. As this is a working winery, you may find it a little chilly, so dress warmly.

You can find E.B. Foote at 127-B SW 153rd St in the cellar of a retail strip mall in Burien. Call for reservations at 206-242-3852.

The winery is open for free wine tasting on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5pm to 8pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Both white and red wines may be available for tasting and purchase in the winery gift shop.

Owner Sherrill Miller has a whole line up of events planned for the holiday season and beyond, so stay tuned to the BTB for further updates.

Here’s a taste of music from Wayne and Friends (website here; MySpace page here)

Now playing: The Wayne Show with Friends

Here’s a Photo Slideshow of Wayne and Friends by Michael Brunk when they played at E.B. Foote back in June:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, event listing and/or Ad like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 40,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Breeders Theater’s newest production is “Snowbound,” where the pass is closed (both ways), and the guy in the next room might be a killer.

Written by local playwright T.M. Sell, Directed by BTB Photographer Michael Brunk, with music by Nancy Warren, Breeders’ latest comedy premieres Friday, Jan. 15th at E.B. Foote Winery in Burien.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Snowbound. The pass is closed. Both ways. And the guy in the next room might be a killer.

WHEN: Premieres Friday, Jan. 15th; Doors open Fri/Sat/Wed/Thur at 6:30 p.m./show starts at 7 p.m.; 1:30 p.m./2 p.m. Sundays:

• Friday Jan. 15
• Saturday Jan. 16
• Sunday Jan. 17
• *Wed. Jan. 20 (benefits Highline College Foundation)
• Friday Jan. 22
• Saturday Jan. 23
• Sunday Jan. 24
• Wed. Jan. 27
• Thursday Jan. 28
• Friday Jan. 29
• Saturday Jan. 30
• Sunday Jan. 31

*Jan. 20 show benefits Highline College Foundation

WHERE: E.B. Foote Winery, 127-B SW 153rd St., Burien 206-242-3852

INFO: Written by T.M. Sell. Music by Nancy Warren. Directed by BTB Photographer Michael Brunk.

TICKETS: Just $20, including hors d’oeuvres and tasting of E.B. Foote wines.

Tickets available at E.B. Foote Winery (127-B SW 153rd St., Burien; 206-242-3852) and at CorkyCellars (22511 Marine View Dr., Des Moines; 206-824-9462)

More information available at www.breederstheater.com.

Payment options: Cash, check, or credit card* (*Credit cards accepted with a $5 fee per ticket in addition to the $20 ticket price.
OR 
Your credit card can guarantee the tickets, and you can pay at the door with cash or a check.  
If your card is charged, you will be charged a $5 fee per ticket in addition to the $20 ticket price).

Tickets available:

• E.B. Foote Winery
  127-B SW 153rd St.
  Burien, WA
  206-242-3852
• Corky Cellars
  22511 Marine View Drive
  Des Moines, WA
  206-824-9462

Refund policy: No refunds. Exchanges on availability for the run.

Our good friend Dan “The Sausageman” House has opened his new “Tin Cellars” wine, gift shop and bar.

His new “Tin Theater” is scheduled to open in mid-January or February, with the classic “Wizard of Oz” slated for the big premiere (stay tuned to the BTB for more details soon).

Here are the details for the Tin Cellars opening:

WHAT: Grand Opening of “Tin Cellars”

WHEN: Doors open Thursday, Nov. 12th at 11am; be sure to stop in, say hi to Chirlee and check out the place, as Dan is re-utilizing even more historic artifacts from the historic old Tin Shop that used to be in this location, making this another altar of sorts to the historic old Burien business which originally opened in 1930. Be sure to admire the old wooden sign above the new bar, circa 1940; here’s photographic proof:

WHERE: Tin Cellars is next to The Tin Room Bar at 923 SW 152nd Street in Olde Burien.

INFO: From their press release, which also includes updates on the “Tin Theater”:

Tin Cellars Is Opening!

We are proud and excited to announce the opening of Tin Cellars Thursday, November 12th!

Many of you have questions about Tin Cellars, the Tin Theater and Dan the Sausageman. Hopefully this will answer a few of them.

What is Tin Cellars?
Tin Cellars will be a wine shop featuring Dan the Sausageman sausages, assorted cheeses and Dan’s gift packs during the holidays. Hours of operation will be from 11 AM to 5 PM Monday thru Saturday with extended hours this Thursday for our Grand Opening Celebration. After Thanksgiving we will be open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 5 PM.

When will the Tin Theater open?
We are hoping for late January or early February.

What movies will you play?
Classics, foreign films and second run movies. We are hoping to hear from you on what movies you would like to see.

Can the theater be used for private parties?
Yes, you can book the entire theater as well as Tin Cellars, bring your favorite movie or DVD’s of family photos and enjoy your own theater for a night. Tin Cellars is available immediately for private parties so please call ASAP if this is something you would like as the days are already starting to be booked.

Why is there another bar in the Tin Cellars?
This will be the bar to service the movie theater when it opens. Also it will handle the overflow for the Tin Room allowing our guests to enjoy a new atmosphere, a drink and an appetizer while waiting for a table. You just might find it so comfortable and such a different experience from the Tin Room that you may just want to stick around.

Is the Tin Cellars open now?
Yes, it is open to handle whenever the Tin Room needs more space and it is available for private parties.

Thank you so much for your patience and we hope this is going to be a great new addition to the neighborhood. See you at the movies!

This month Kelley, Nikki and Kristin M are celebrating anniversaries working with the Tin Room. Kelley and Nikki will celebrate 5 years with the Tin room and Kristin M has been with us for 4 years. Chef Daniel and Rigo both have birthdays this month as well.

And, last but not least, the Tin Room will be celebrating it’s 5th birthday this month!!! Join us on Saturday, November 21st for an all out party where we will be giving away gifts and having an all-around great time. Thank you Burien for 5 great years! We’re looking forward to celebrating with you!

The Animals First Foundation is holding another Charity Wine Tasting Event at Burien’s Vino Bello this Friday, Nov. 13th to help raise money to care for rescued animals.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Charity Wine Tasting Event for Animals First Foundation

WHEN: Friday, November 13th, from 6pm—9pm

WHERE: Vino Bello, located at 636 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien

INFO: From their poster:

Every Dog Has Their Day…Make This Day A Lucky One!

Friday, November 13th, 2009, 6pm—9pm

Please come join Animals First Foundation at Vino Bello on Friday, November 13th to help raise money to help care for our rescued animals.

Your $20 donation will buy a wine tasting and there will also be some amazing raffle prizes and silent auction items available!

Donations are needed to help give a rescued animal the best of care and preparation on its road to a better life!

Animals First Foundation

Event located at: Vino Bello 636 SW 152nd St Burien, WA 98166

Want to buy your ticket early and guarantee a space? Call Heather at 206-331-7440 or visit our website at www.animalsfirstfoundation.org and click the donate button to make your $20 donation!

For the third year in a row, BTB Advertiser Vino Bello Wine Shop will be exclusively offering the newest ‘Lady in Red’ Holiday Red Wine from Kestrel in Prosser, beginning this Saturday, Oct. 17th at 636 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien.

As always, this highly collectible, very drinkable and super gift-able wine is extremely limited in production and sells out fast.

You can secure your order today by stopping into Vino Bello or by calling (206) 244-VINO with your credit card number. The wine will be available for pick up on its release date (Saturday, Oct. 17th) only at Vino Bello.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Kestrel Vintners Lady in Red Holiday Edition Release Party

Tasting Lineup:

• Lady in Red Holiday #4
• Kestrel ‘07 Old Vine Chardonnay
• Kestrel ‘08 Rose
• Kestrel ‘05 Merlot
• Kestrel ‘06 Winemaker Select Cabernet Franc
• Kestrel ‘06 Cabernet Sauvignon

WHEN: Saturday, October 17th from Noon-8pm

• Noon-8pm: Tasting
• 4pm-8pm: Bottle Signing

WHERE: Vino Bello Wine Shop

COST: Tasting Fee: $10

INFO: Details from the winery:

The fourth edition in this series is by far the best one yet. Creating a wine for the Holidays that can be enjoyed with the wonderful wide range of flavors at your dinner table is just what Kestrel did. A rich red wine which is the best holiday gift giving idea.

From the winemaker:

“Deep color is reminiscent of blackberry juice. In the aroma you will find luscious ripe cherry, blackberry, black currants, figs, plum, cranberries and herbs. This extremely full-bodied wine boasts great structure and balance. The lingering finish holds many layers of blueberry, cranberry, dark ripe fruits, spice, cocoa and dried herbs.”

Blend: 40% Merlot, 30% Cabernet, 20 % Syrah, 5 % Sangiovese, 4 % Viognier and 1% Malbec

Oak: 18 months (French, American and Hungarian)

Always a bargain at just $18/bottle with 10% discount on 6 or more.

Follow this link to learn more about this wine: Lady in Red #4

Release Date 10/17/09 • LIMITED!

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Author Neil Low and Friends celebrate the recent release of his second novel, Sign of the Dragon (Tigress Publishing, Sept 2009) at Burien’s hottest wine bar, BTB Advertiser Vino Bello, located at 626 SW 152nd Street, in downtown Burien.

Come on in for drink specials, beautiful women and well-told tales until 8:30pm tonight (Fri. Sept. 11th), and be sure to tell ‘em you “saw it on the blog.”

And if you want to get all high-tech and social, follow them on Twitter right now (just tell ‘em @btownblog sent ya):

• http://twitter.com/AssistantThief
• http://twitter.com/TheMasterThief

John F. Kennedy High School’s 2nd Annual Wine & Microbrew Tasting is coming Saturday, Sept 19th from 7pm to 10pm, and this 21-and-older event will feature Australian wines and Northwest microbrews.

Light hors d’oeuvres will be served throughout the evening.

Commemorative glasses will be on sale for $5 each, and featured wines will also be available for sale by the bottle.

Tickets are just $25 per person, which includes six 2-ounce tastings (additional tastings are available for $2 each).

Tickets will be pre-sold only and are only available until Friday, Sept 11th. Click here to download a Registration Form (PDF), which you must print, fill out and mail in by Sept. 11th, so hurry up!

Animals First Foundation will be hosting their 1st Annual “Whine & Cheese” Silent Auction on Sunday, Aug. 9th from 4pm to 7pm at BTB Advertiser Vino Bello in Burien, WA.

Auction items will include an acrobatic flight, original Artwork, a photography session and much, much more.

They will also have raffle & trivia prizes awarded throughout the evening from local businesses, such as the Tin Room, Wag the Dog and Karuna Arts Yoga.

The price of admission is a $25 donation which includes two drinks and one raffle ticket. Additional raffle & drink tickets will also be available for purchase.

All proceeds will go to Animals First Foundation to help with the costs of giving a rescued animal the best of care and preparation on its road to a better life.

There will be a limited number of tickets available, so it’s best to order yours now by emailing info@animalsfirstfoundation.org or by calling 206-331-7440.

Vino Bello is located at 636 SW 152nd in downtown Burien.

by Gina Bourdage

Wizards, Witches, Demons, a Princess and a King. Lies, deceit, greed, ignorance and kidnapping…yes “The Last Magician” has it all. An important story which begs each viewer to consider in their own terms the potential consequences of the impact they have on situations they may have been too naïve to realize, begging the question:

What would you give up if you could save the world?

Taking a deep subject matter, adding a twist of humor with pop musical numbers interjected gives light to subject matter that could otherwise be taken as mundane.

The Breeders Theater’s production at TM Sell’s play at E.B. Foote Winery has found a way to reach out through a not only entertaining but skilled cast to tell a story of what is being called an “environmental parable about sacrifice and responsibility.”

Each cast member brings a quite unique perspective to the characters, including local references…they were actually able to seamlessly improv a Mariners score update for those of us who missed the game attending the matinee. The King, a strong and noble man (played by The B-Town Blog’s Photog Michael Brunk), the “silly” wizard (J Howard Boyd), a loveable yet wise centerpiece, even demons both friendly and intimidatingly strong to fight for a cause.

The cast also features:

• Adrienne Grieco
• Eric Hartley
• Steve Scheide
• Nathan Hicks
• Laura Smith
• Brenan Grant
• Doug Knoop
• Kelly Johnson
• Pamela Mohn

The show is directed and choreographed by Teresa Widner, with music by Nancy Warren and costumes by Melissa Sell.

If you’re of legal age, accompanying the performance you will receive six wine tastings courtesy E.B. Foote, along with hors d’oeuvres, all for $20.

Please note that there is a special discounted price of just $15 for the Wed., July 22nd and Thurs., July 23rd shows!

The setting for the play is in the charming, working (which means the temp is cool) wine cellar and performed in the round for the audience.

Doors open at 6:30pm and the show starts at 7pm. Sunday shows start at 2pm and the doors open at 1:30pm.

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127-B SW 153rd Street in downtown Burien.

Tickets are available at the winery, 206-242-3852 and at Corky Cellars, 22511 Marine View Drive, Des Moines 206-824-9462.

For more information please visit www.breederstheater.com.

Here’s a Photo Slideshow of the cast in action:

Click to View Slideshow

BTB Advertiser Vino Bello would like our Readers to know about their special “Art & Sake” weekend coming up this Friday July 17th and Saturday July 18th.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Sake Tasting & Educational Session with Sake Sommelier, Hideyo Seek

WHEN: Reception is Friday, July 17th from 6pm to 10pm (with Happy Hour all night!); Sake Tasting is Saturday, July 18th with tasting from Noon to 8pm and a meet & greet with Sake Sommelier Hideyo Seek from 4pm to 8pm.

WHERE: Vino Bello, located at 636 SW 152nd Street – F in downtown Burien

COST: $10

INFO: Join us in welcoming photographer, Anthony Huss as Vino Bello’s featured artist in July and August. His amazing photographs of the sea, sand, and sunsets will take you in and fill you with a calming, peaceful sense. He is a Spokane native and has lived in Seattle, Anchorage, and Portland. His work has graced the covers of several popular magazines including, City Living, Seattle, Washington.

Vino Bello is thrilled to welcome back Sake Sommelier, Hideyo Seek, for a sake tasting and educational session. Hideyo will demystify sake and make learning about it fun!

Tasting Lineup:

• Hou Hou Shu Sparkling Sake: Infused with rosehip and hibiscus.
• Sho Une from Kobe; Style: Junmai Daiginjo: Clean and slightly creamy on the palate. It has fruity aroma with velvety smoothness.
• Hakutsuru Superior Junmai Ginjo from Kobe; Style: Junmai Ginjo: Brewed with Nada’s famed natural spring water “Miyamizu”. It has flowery fragrant with silky, well-balanced smoothness.
• Kasumi Tsuru Nama Genshu from Hyogo; Style: Draft, Unpasterized, Yamahai Honjozo: Notes of melon and fresh almonds with a hint of daikon radish spice. Punchy Genshu with complexity.
• Tozai Snow Maiden fromKyoto; Style: Junmai Nigori: Food friendly Nigori. It is dry with the flavors of fresh fruit and creamy fresh rice.
• Moonstone Raspberry from Forest Grove, OR; Style: Infused Junmai Ginjo: Fresh picked raspberries waft subtly on the nose. Soft, slightly sweet and smooth.

For more information, visit Vino Bello’s website here.

Returning B-Town Blog Advertiser Vino Bello Wine Bar and Wine Shop is celebrating three years in Burien this Saturday, July 11th – owner Michele Smith and her team have planned a special anniversary party and invite all BTB readers to stop by between Noon and 9pm to partake in the festivities!

Vino Bello’s anniversary events include a Wine Tasting with Wind River Cellars Winemaker, Joel Goodwillie.

“From the Columbia River Gorge, Joel brings us his new releases and a serious dose of humor, and we are very excited to have him back in the house,” Michele told us.

Winemaker Joel has a very simple winemaking philosophy – begin with some of the best grapes in Washington State and let them do their own thing.

“It’s similar to raising children,” says Joel. “Hopefully you begin with something healthy and then you provide a healthy, caring environment for both to mature. The only difference I see is wine doesn’t drop French fries between the seats of my car.”

• Noon – 9pm: Wine Tasting
  
• 4pm – 9pm: Meet Winemaker Joel from Wind River Cellars

In the Vino Bello tradition, you can’t have a real party without live music. Saturday’s shindig will feature “Son Jack Jr. & Michael Wilde.”

You can catch the NW’s hottest Blues act live at Vino Bello starting at 6pm and playing through 8pm.

Son Jack Jr. is a blues singer, songwriter and guitarist who performs acoustic solo, duo & electric band sets. His live shows have been described as “intoxicating, intense, exciting experiences” and are comprised of mostly original material and a heady mix of classics from a wide range of country blues greats.

But a rollicking third anniversary party is not all that’s happening at Vino Bello – it’s also a wine shop where low production and high quality wines can be found in a wide array of prices from $7 to $150.

“We also take special orders for whatever you need if we don’t carry it at that time,” Smith said. “We provide quality bulk wines for weddings and large parties and offer discounts on all case and mixed case orders. We have gift certificates and four different wine clubs. We also offer Illy Italian espresso to enjoy here or buy the beans to take home. We carry Theo 100% Organic chocolates from Fremont.”

If you’re not into wine, but love beer, Vino Bello carries 16 eclectic brands of brew that you can enjoy in their sophisticated bar/tasting room or outside on the sidewalk patio, where you can watch the world of Burien pass by.

And did you know that Vino Bello also does private parties? They’ll work with you to create the perfect party for any occasion, from private wine tastings to sit down dinners, you’ll experience food, wine pairing and fun that your group will surely remember.

Vino Bello is located at 636 152nd #F, in downtown Burien. Hours are: Tues-Thurs 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-10, with a Tues-Friday Happy Hour from 4-7 where wine is an affordable $6.00 per glass.

So if you like parties, great wine, beer, people and music in a great location, you’ll love this Saturday’s third Birthday Bash at Vino Bello – here are the details:

• Noon – 9pm: Wine Tasting
  
• 4pm – 9pm: Meet the Winemaker
  
• 6pm – 8pm: Live Music with Son Jack Jr. & Michael Wilde
• $10 tasting fee and $5 cover charge for the music only

For more information, please visit Vino Bello’s website here, or call them at (206) 244-VINO.

We proudly welcome Michele and Vino Bello back as an Advertiser on The B-Town Blog, and like fine wine, Vino Bello continues to age well with the years!

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BTB Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery held a special “$10 Jazz Night” Sunday night (June 28th), and here are highlights in a slideshow by Photographer Michael Brunk:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

E.B. Foote will hold its next $10 Jazz Night on Sunday, August 30th. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with live music from 6 pm – 8 pm.

And be sure to mark your calendars to see Michael Brunk himself in TM Sell’s “The Last Magician,” which begins its run at E.B. Foote on Friday, July 10th.

Also, be sure to visit E.B. Foote’s new Facebook page and become a “fan” here!

BTB Advertiser Bistro Baffi wants all Readers to know about their special upcoming Italian Wine Dinner on Monday, April 27th, which is co-sponsored by Vino Bello and will feature special guest, Italian Wine Importer Gianpietro Ottolini.

Here are the delicious details:

WHAT: Italian Wine Dinner at Bistro Baffi

WHEN: Monday, April 27th from 6:30pm to 9:30pm

WHERE: Bistro Baffi Italian Cuisine, located at 15217 21st SW across from the Seahurst Post Office

COST: $100 per person, which includes a 4-course dinner, tax and free-flowing wine all night

RSVP: Reservations required. $100 per person, includes tax and 4-course dinner with free flowing wine. Space is limited, please call (206) 244-0737 to make your reservation today.

INFO: “Join us for a special Wine Dinner hosted by Bistro Baffi and Vino Bello Wine Bar with special guest, Italian Wine Importer, Gianpietro Ottolini. This is a once in a lifetime chance to experience these truly unique and magical wines.

Gianpietro was born in a small town in Alps of Lombardia, on the shore of lake Lugano. He first visited Seattle in 1991, fell in love and married. He spent the next 12 years in the wine trade in Seattle before setting up his import company featuring a carefully assembled portfolio of unusual Italian wines. His focus is indigenous Italian varietals that are very unique and rarely tasted. These wines display exceptional individuality, glorious aromatics and palate – stretching flavors. Meet Gianpietro and explore these unique wines paired with Chef Michael’s especially paired dishes.”

MENU:

Antipasti

Funghi Ripieni
Stuffed Mushrooms with prosciutto, roasted bell peppers, sun dried tomatoes, asparagus and pecans, served with spicy pink sauce paired with Livio Pavese Prosecco-Made from 100% Prosecco grapes in an extra-dry style, this wine is vibrant and exuberant. Notes of spring blossoms and fresh apple.

Insalata
Chef Michael’s special Caesar Salad : Romaine lettuce with fresh made Caesar dressing, croutons and aged Parmesan cheese paired with Coffele Soave Classico made from100% Estate -grown Garganega grape variety. This wine has intense aromatics reminiscent of acacia and cherry blossoms, fresh apple with notes of sage, vanilla and mineral. Medium bodied and well built mouth feel.

Secondi Piatti (choose one)

a) Pollo Oscar
Grilled chicken with crab meat in Bearnaise sauce paired with Nera “Alisio” Sassella DOCG. 100% Chiavennasca (Nebbiolo) The vineyards of this Northern Italian viticultural region are planted on the south facing slopes of the Alps at an altitude ranging from 1300 to 2500 ft. This is truly elegant Nebbiolo, very structured and age -worthy with intense floral and explosive dark fruit and tobacco notes.

b) Branzino
Grilled sea bass served with roasted red bell pepper and cognac sauce , and sun dried tomatoes paired with Campodelsole San Maglorio di Romagna Superiore DOC. Campodelsole is a jaw-dropping renovation of an old farm, which was once part of the Franciscan Monks’ estate back in the 15Th C. Campodelsole wines have distinct character and purity. The San Maglorio is selected from lots of the Estate vineyards, all stainless steel fermented to preserve the complex and floral aromas, lots of juicy cherries and rich, long finish.

c) Bistecca Romana
Fillet Mignon wrapped with prosciutto , grilled and served with roasted garlic, and Chianti wine reduction paired with Terenzi Cesanese del Piglio Colle Forma DOC. 100% Cesanese from the Lazio region very close to Rome. Cesanese is the name of one of the indigenous grape varieties only grown here and was amongst the favorites on the tables of Roman Emperors and Popes.This wine has powerful elegance reminiscent of Pinot Noir but is much bigger in style. It shows a deep ruby color with violet hues; intense bouquet of black cherries and currants, with well-structured mouth feel.

Dolce
Livio Pavese Barolo Chianto paired with Chef Michael’s Tiramisu.
A pharmacist in the late 1800’s created this concoction by adding to the Barolo wine a cocktail of wine distilled with the Chincona tree bark, rhubarb root, cardamon seeds and other herbs and spices. It is divine with dark chocolate or even with a little seltzer as an aperitif.

If you’re not familiar with Bistro Baffi, here’s an original Video Ad we produced for them (if you’re interested in having an professional Video produced, Contact Us!):

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Photos and Story by Janet Grella

The Poverty Bay Wine festival in Des Moines will be an event not soon forgotten by Burien residents Emma Wagner and Al Halvorson, pictured above.

They met here last year at the festival when Al asked Emma to Salsa dance.

One short year later, they’re back at the festival with the big announcement that they’re getting married on March 14th!

A big congratulations Al and Emma from all the folks at The Poverty Bay Wine Festival and your friends at both The B-Town and Waterland Blogs!

Some scenes from Saturday’s festivities at the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, which continues through Sunday at the gorgeous Landmark on the Sound in Des Moines:

The Des Moines Rotary Club Poverty Bay Wine Festival continues through Sunday at the historic Landmark On the Sound, and your very own Waterland Blog has a table in the main room (near the back, by the kitchen of course), so come on in and say hi!

It’s for a great cause, and you can buy tickets at the door. $25 gets you inside, and you also get 10 tokens which can be used for wine samples. Parking on site is very limited, but there is free parking and free shuttle service from the Des Moines Marina.

Sunday’s entertainment will be:

• Double Cookin’ (Acoustic Blues)
• Island Jazz Quintet (Jazz)

Staffers from sister site The Waterland Blog will be there, so come on down and have a sip with us:

View Larger Map

Friday night’s “Gala of the Gods” fundraiser auction at the Poverty Bay Wine Festival attracted dozens of glamorous, well-dressed area locals, who sampled great wines and bid on auction items, all while being serenaded by Greek music and entertained by Belly Dancers, including one with a sword on her head.

Our own Photographer Tom Sirgedas was there, and he took these photos:

The Des Moines Rotary Club Poverty Bay Wine Festival continues through Sunday at the historic Landmark On the Sound, and our sister site The Waterland Blog will be there both days, so come on down to the Landmark On the Sound and say hi!

It’s for a great cause, there’s plenty of great wines, and you can buy tickets online here, at Corky Cellars or from any Rotary Club member (we’re not sure, but we think they’re also selling tickets at the door)


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Sherrill Miller hopes her newest wine makes a lot of money, but not for her.

E.B. Foote’s newest wine, Remembrance, will raise money for Alzheimer’s research, in honor of her late husband, Rich Higginbotham, who died of the disease last year.

“Rich’s dad had Alzheimer’s, and research has shown a strong heredity link,” Miller says. “Once Rich was diagnosed at 56, he knew what would eventually happen, but he didn’t know a timeline. We learned as much as we could about the disease and found out that often the earlier the onset, the faster the timeline.”

Miller and Higginbotham took over the winery, one of Washington’s oldest, in 1991. They moved from South Park to Burien in 1999.

In that time, they learned to make award-winning wines, focusing on reds using grapes from Washington’s Columbia Valley.

“Rich had always liked to make blends and I tended to be the purist,” Miller says.

“From early in our winemaking career, he wanted to make a Bordeaux-style blend. In 2002 we finally had all three grapes to do it, and we made Perfect a Trois.

“He was pleased with the wine, and he was pleased with the name that I had come up with,” Miller recalls. “The wine was well received by customers, and earned a Gold Medal at the Northwest Wine Summit and 89 points from Wine Spectator.”

Now Miller is using that knowledge to create a new wine, Remembrance, also in the Bordeaux style (French wines from that region typically are blends of different grapes, unlike varietals, which largely use a single grape variety).

Higginbotham was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2003.

“Rich’s decline too soon got to the point where he was not able to do very much at the winery,” Miller says. “I decided that I wanted to make a wine in tribute to him that would benefit Alzheimer’s research. Of course the wine had to be a Bordeaux-style blend.”

Using 2007 vintage grapes, Miller created Remembrance, a blend of 60 percent Cabernet, 30 percent Merlot and 10 percent Cabernet Franc. The grapes come from three different Columbia Valley vineyards, including Milbrandt, Graves and Arianses.

“I wanted to make as many cases as I could, and I will end up making 795 cases of this wine, the most of any wine I’ve made by nearly double,” Miller says.

The label, designed by Sharone Fischer, features Higginbotham’s picture with information about him and the creation of the wine.

Miller is donating 50 percent of the $28 purchase price to Alzheimer’s research. That could raise as much as $133,000. In addition, 50 percent of the purchase price of a special commemorative wine glass also will be donated.

Miller continues to collect Alzheimer’s donations at the winery as well.

“My plan is to make my ‘Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s Disease’ an annual fundraising weekend in March, and all year I plan to donate 10 percent of all Perfect a Trois sales to Alzheimer’s,” she says.

An estimated 4 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s.

“We wanted to do what we could to support the Alzheimer’s Association so that someday no other families would have to suffer with this dreadful disease,” Miller says.

“I’ve seen first-hand what this devastating disease can do to a person and a family,” she says. “It may be the worst diagnosis to receive since there is neither a treatment nor a cure.

“Unlike other diseases like diabetes or heart disease where medications can control the disease, current treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease only slow the progression of the disease for a very short time. I am hopeful that this money can make a difference in finding a treatment or a cure.”

Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s, featuring the release of Remembrance, will be Thursday, March 26 from 5-9 p.m.; Friday, March 27, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 29, noon-6 p.m.

The event includes a $5 tasting fee, which can be applied toward a purchase of a bottle. Miller advises customers to dress warmly, as E.B. Foote is a working winery.

For more information, contact Sherrill Miller at E.B. Foote, 206-242-3852, or email winemaker@ebfootewinery.com.

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127B SW 153rd St. in Burien. It is open for tasting Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Twenty Northwest wineries will offer tastes at the fifth annual Poverty Bay Wine Festival, with an opening night event Friday, Feb. 27th called “Gala of the Gods” at Des Moines’ historic Landmark On The Sound.

The fest will then run Saturday Feb. 28th and Sunday March 1st, and each winery will offer two to four wines for tasting. The event includes a full slate of live music and free samplings from local restaurants.

Among the wineries pouring tastes will be Willis Hall, one of Washington’s up and coming wineries, and Five Star from Walla Walla. New to the festival this year are Sweet Valley, also from Walla Walla, Vashon Winery, and Masset Winery from one of the region’s fastest growing wine areas, Lake Chelan.

Recognizing that value is top-of-mind for many people in today’s economy, tickets include twice as many tasting tokens this year. An afternoon of wine, food, and live music costs $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

Friday’s opening night event will usher in this year’s festival with a Greek theme, and will feature:

• Belly Dancers
• Live music from Takis Dotis and the Mad Greeks
• A Fine Art and Wines Auction
• Anthony’s HomePort will present hors d’oeuvres and dessert buffet.

The evening starts at 7:30pm, it will be a “black tie optional” party, with valet Parking included, and tickets are $75 in advance or $85 at the door. Must be 21 to enter.

This will be one of the public’s last opportunities to attend an event at Landmark On The Sound. This elegant estate overlooking Puget Sound will close for reconstruction this summer and reopen as a private senior living community. The early 20th Century mansion features stunning interiors with classic period details.

Poverty Bay Wine Festival is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Des Moines. All proceeds benefit the charitable projects of the club, which include scholarships, support for the Des Moines Food Bank, grants to local schools, parks improvement, and efforts to assist women in South Africa and Peru.

Tickets are available at Corky Cellars in Des Moines (206-824-9462); Des Moines Drugs, located at 627 South 227th Street; or online at www.dmrotary.org. All proceeds go to local Des Moines Charities.

WHAT: Fifth annual Poverty Bay Wine Festival

WHEN: Opening night is Friday, Feb. 27th, 7:30pm+; also Saturday, Feb. 28, Noon-7pm and Sunday Mar. 1st from Noon-5pm:

• Saturday, March 1st:
  Hours: Noon-7pm
  Featuring Michael Powers and Mambo Cadillac
• Sunday, March 2nd:
  Hours: Noon-5pm
  Featuring CocoLoco and Global Village

WHERE: All events will be at the historic Landmark On The Sound, which is located at 23660 Marine View Drive South in Des Moines (see map below).

COST: Opening night event is $75 in advance or $85 at the door (must be 21 to enter); Festival admission fee is $20 per person pre-sale or $25 at the door, which includes:

• Souvenir wine glass
• Tokens for wine tastings (certain tastings may require more than one token)
• All proceeds go to local Des Moines Charities
• ID Required at Door
• No Pets Please
• This is an indoor event with free parking and free shuttle service from the Des Moines Marina

TICKETS: You can purchase tickets online by clicking here, or go to Corky Cellars (206) 824-9462, Des Moines Drugs, and through Rotary Club of Des Moines. All proceeds go to local Des Moines Charities.

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The B-Town Blog is proud to welcome our latest Advertiser: Breeders Theater’s “Prairie Heart,” a new romantic comedy playing at E.B. Foote Winery starting Jan. 16th!

Love blooms unexpectedly in “Prairie Heart,” written by local Playwright T.M. Sell. The plot revolves around Scandinavian pioneers in North Dakota in the 1890s.

“That’s about the time my great-grandparents homesteaded there,” says Sell.  “The story is based on the kinds of stories their descendants used to talk about when I was a kid.  But I think it’s an immigrant experience that a lot of people will be able to relate to.”

The show is directed by Alan Wilkie with music by Nancy Warren, choreography by Teresa Widner and costumes by Melissa Sell.

The cast features:

• Adrienne Grieco
• Luke Amundson
• Eric Hartley
• Melissa Grinley
• J Howard Boyd
• Steve Scheide
• Melissa Malloy

Show dates are:

• Friday, Jan. 16
• Saturday, Jan. 17
• Sunday, Jan. 18
• Wednesday, Jan. 21
• Friday, Jan. 23
• Saturday, Jan. 24
• Sunday, Jan. 25
• Wednesday, Jan. 28
• Thursday, Jan. 29
• Friday, Jan. 30
• Saturday, Jan. 31
• Sunday, Feb. 1st

On Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday performances, doors open at 6:30pm, and the show starts at 7pm.

Sunday shows start at 2pm and the doors open at 1:30pm.

The annual “Escape from Super Bowl Sunday” show is Sunday, Feb. 1 and starts at 1pm.

Proceeds from the Jan. 29 show go to benefit the Highline College Foundation.

Each performance includes tasting of E.B. Foote’s award winning wines and hors d’oeurves, still for only $20.

Tickets are $20 per person and include wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, and the play. The winery will be chilly so dress warmly and casually.  Tickets are available at E.B. Foote Winery and at Corky Cellars, located at 22511 Marine View Drive, Des Moines; phone: 206-824-9462. Visit the winery or call for tickets, 206-242-3852 or check out breederstheater.com.

Tickets can also be ordered online at E.B. Foote’s “Current Releases” page here, and Sherrill will call you to confirm a date and other details (credit cards accepted with a $5 fee per ticket OR your credit card can guarantee the tickets, and you can pay at the door with cash or check.)

For more information, contact T.M. Sell at breederstheater@aol.com.

And now, a quick Q & A with T.M. Sell:

Q: What is “Prairie Heart” about?
A: “Prairie Heart” is about Scandinavian immigrant farmers in North Dakota in the 1890s.  From what I’ve heard and read, life was a bit of challenge then, so it’s about what people went through when they got there.  It’s also about the difficulty of romantic life.

Q: How is this different or similar to your previous work?
A: It’s similar in that there’s romance; it’s different in that there’s no mutant aliens, no talking animals, no gods descending from heaven; just fairly normal folks trying to get through life.  But I hope it’s still funny.

Q: Why 1890s in North Dakota?
A: That’s where my great-grandparents homesteaded, near Minot.  We visited there this summer, and it was very interesting.   So parts of the story is based on their stories.

Q: Are there any parallels to modern-day life in the general Burien area?
A: At some level all of our ancestors were immigrants who went through some struggles to get there.  And at some level, most of us have struggled with romance and relationships and trying to figure how to say the right thing to the right person, while hoping that he or she doesn’t laugh in your face.

Q: Tell us about your cast.
A: Luke Amundson plays Ole, a bachelor farmer; he played Tom Monroe in Crazy/Naked last year.  Adrienne Grieco plays Ingrid, a young woman who ends up alone and basically penniless in his town.  Eric Hartley and Melissa Grinley play a more settled, successful farm couple; Steve Scheide plays another young man who is interested in Ingrid; J Howard Boyd plays a narrator who helps explain the story as it unfolds.   It’s a very strong cast and I feel very lucky to get work with them all once again.

Q: I understand you’re doing a benefit show – details please?
A: Jan. 29 is our annual fundraiser for an arts scholarship that we created at Highline College.  We’ve been able to help a dozen students with tuition assistance in the eight years we’ve been doing the scholarship.

Q: Let’s talk about the important stuff now – the wine – what’s on tap for this production? And do the cast members get to imbibe during the show?
A: Sherrill will be tasting six wines, featuring her reds, of course.  I can’t speak for how medicated the cast might be for a show, but they do tend to take their work very seriously.

Q: As 2009 begins, do you have any predictions for Readers of the B-Town Blog?
A: More crazy weather; more timely local news; perhaps more awareness that we really do live in a very nice part of town.

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We’d like to raise a toast to our latest returning Advertiser: E.B. Foote Winery!

E.B. Foote Winery was founded in 1978 by Eugene Foote, and it is one of the oldest wineries in Washington State.

And it’s located right here in Burien.

In 1991, Rich Higginbotham and Sherrill Miller became the owners and winemakers and they moved the winery from south Seattle to Burien in 1999.

Sadly, Rich passed away on Sept. 15th, but Sherrill and crew will be releasing a wine in his honor sometime next year.

The grapes come from the Columbia Valley in eastern Washington and are trucked in. The grape hauling, crush, press, fermenting, bottling, labeling, and sales are done right at the winery in Burien. The winery makes approximately 2,200 cases each year. All the winemaking is done at the winery in Burien with the help of their Volunteer Vintners.

The winery is open for free wine tasting on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7pm to 9pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Both white and red wines may be available for tasting and purchase in the winery gift shop.

These award-winning wines may include:

• Chardonnay
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Syrah
• Red Zinfandel
• Red blends
• Sweet Sherrill, a Riesling-like wine

Upcoming Events include:

• CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
  $5 tasting fee, applied toward bottle purchase
  
  • Thursday, Dec. 4, 5 pm – 9 pm
  • Friday, Dec. 5, 11 am – 9 pm,
  • Saturday, Dec. 6, 11 am – 7 pm
  • Sunday, Dec. 7, Noon – 6 pm

  Sample our current award-winning wines and our new releases along with snacks. We have new gift ideas, and three new wines will be released. Jim from Chocolate Serenade will have samples of his decadent chocolate truffles and have boxes of truffles available for purchase. Get a friend or two and join us during these hours, no reservations needed! The winery will be chilly so dress warmly and casually. Scheduled for release: Rainy Day Red V, 2006 Northwest Duet, etc. (all three wines are red blends)

• BRASS BAND CONCERT PERFORMED BY PUGET BRASS- FREE!
  • Tuesday, Dec. 9, 7 pm – 9 pm

  Enjoy traditional brass band music performed by Puget Brass, a 20-piece brass band conducted by John Falskow.  All ages are welcome to attend this free event.  Complimentary cheese and crackers will be served.  Complimentary wine tasting will be available for those 21 years and older, and wine will be available for purchase by the glass for $5 or $8 each.  The gift shop will be open for wine or gift purchases. No reservations needed.

• BREEDERS THEATER PRESENTS “PRAIRIE HEART”
  Tickets $20 each, advance purchase recommended
  
  • Jan. 16 – 18, 21, 23 – 25, 28 – 31, Feb. 1
  • Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings door opens at 6:30 pm
  • Sunday matinee door opens at 1:30 pm
  • Sunday, Feb. 1 door opens at 12:30 pm

  Join us for live theater at the winery. A local, professional theater group puts on original comedy plays between wine tasting and food. It’s fun, entertaining, adult humor. Performed in the winery. Tickets are $20 per person and include wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, and the play. The winery will be chilly so dress warmly and casually.  Tickets available beginning November 1, 2008.  Visit the winery or call for tickets, 206-242-3852 or check out breederstheater.com. (Credit cards accepted with a $5 fee per ticket OR your credit card can guarantee the tickets, and you can pay at the door with cash or check.)

E.B. Foote Winery produces quality wines at an affordable price. Because it’s not about what it costs. It’s about how it tastes.

Celebrating 30 years as a Washington winery, please welcome E.B. Foote Winery back to the B-Town Blog by clicking on their ad on the lower right sidebar and checking them out!

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127 SW 153rd St. (downstairs in the lower level) in Burien, and their phone number is (206) 242-3852:

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It is with great sadness that we report the passing of one of our Advertisers – Rich Higginbotham of E.B. Foote Winery passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 15th from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. 

He was 61.

As a tribute to Rich, a special wine will be bottled and labeled next year. Called “Remembrance,” the label for this red table wine will include Rich’s photo from above. When released, 50% of the sale price will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.

An open house will be held at E.B. Foote Winery this Sunday, Sept. 21 from Noon – 6pm to share memories and celebrate his life. At his request, in lieu of flowers, contributions should be made to the Alzheimer’s Association for further research into this dreaded disease.

To donate online, click here, then select the third choice, “Tribute/Memorial donation (to honor someone)” and enter Rich’s name where appropriate.

Our condolences go out to Sherrill, Rich’s family, friends, co-workers and the entire E.B. Foote Winery family.

Here is his obit as provided by E.B. Foote:

Rich is survived by Sherrill Miller, his wife of more than 34 years; his sister Betty Brabban; in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.  He was born and raised in Nitro, West-by-God Virginia, a small town outside of Charleston.

He would often tell stories about his growing-up years — being in Cub Scouts, parking cars for events at the town Moose lodge, mowing lawns to make money, painting the local water tower with high school buddies, sneaking out of the house after dark, lifeguarding during summer vacations at Lost River State Park, playing in the high school marching band, and his time in the Army during the Vietnam era. He was discharged from the Army in 1971 at Fort Lewis and decided to stay in Seattle to experience life on the other coast. He met Sherrill in 1972, and that same year he went to work at the King County Jail in food service. After a short time he became the Food Service Supervisor, planning menus and ordering food for more than 1500 inmates and staff.

In 1991 he and Sherrill decided to buy E. B. Foote Winery in south Seattle. They had never made wine before, but they learned together. They were making award-winning wine by their second vintage. In 2001 he retired from King County to become a full-time “wineaux.” The winery was growing and he was passionate about winemaking, striving to make the best possible wines.

In 2003 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. He and Sherrill worked together to keep the winery going. As Rich became less able to do “wine work,” Sherrill gradually took over more and more responsibilities. Even when he was unable to help at all, he still enjoyed being at the winery and listening to Sherrill speak to groups about the winery’s beginning. In May 2008 he needed more help than Sherrill could provide, and he went to live in an adult family home until his passing.

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We’re at the Farmer’s Market, and in the alley behind us today are two moving vans, with sweaty people moving big things.

Upon further investigation, we discovered that BTB Advertiser John L. Scott of Burien is moving into their new offices on SW 152nd in Olde Burien.

According to Amy Hyson, JLS will spend the next few days moving in and unpacking, with plans to officially open Tues. Sept.  2nd.

The B-Town Blog would like to welcome its latest Advertiser, a business we personally know well (and frequent often) – 909 Coffee and Wine Bar, located at 909 SW 152nd in Olde Burien!

In fact, we’re such big fans you can find us there practically every morning getting our usual day-starting triple grande super-duper hyper caffeinated mocha fix (they use Caffe Umbria coffee), often along with one of their wonderful handmade scones, all whilst joking around with their great, friendly staff.

909 Coffee and Wine Bar serves coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course, great wine as well. When you step inside the 909 you’re almost always greeted by one of their friendly staff, who either seat you at one of their sturdy wood tables, overstuffed leather chairs, outside on the deck (pending weather) or offers you something to go. If you only have time for a quick glass of wine, or are waiting for your table, you’ll find their granite-topped bar area very comfortable.

It’s usually very busy in the mornings, with lots of neighbors and residents enjoying their breakfasts, lattes, espresso or teas (by Luxe Tea). They offer a full breakfast menu, including quiche, crepes and paninnis to more traditional eggs, sausage and toast. Many people bring their work, newspapers, magazines or other readables while enjoying the bustling morning atmosphere.

A great breakfast isn’t the only thing you’ll find at the 909 – they also serve a complete lunch and dinner menu, including gourmet appetizers, fresh salads, hearty entrees and decadent desserts.

But wait, there’s more – every Thursday night, 909 has wine tastings, featuring either a particular winery, region of varietal with several tastes at a very reasonable price. On Friday and Saturday nights, the 909 turns into Olde Burien’s only live music joint, with blues, R&B, jazz, funk and more. 909’s coziness translates into a surprisingly nice venue for live music, and yes, even dancing (just move a few tables and you’ve got a dance floor).

Did we mention that the 909 is a cozy place? Better make reservations to ensure you can get a seat (call 206-243-7909). Don’t get us wrong – you can always just drop in, but you may have to wait a few minutes, especially on a bustling Friday or Saturday night.

Here’s a list of upcoming live Music at 909 Coffee and Wine Bar, which starts around 8:30pm and goes to around 11:30pm:

• Fri. Aug. 22nd – PAUL GREEN Blues Band (Jazz & Blues)
• Fri. Aug. 29th – MIKE GRIFFIN PROJECT (Featuring Mike Griffin-keys, some OTC members & Leah Stillwell-vocals) Performing Smooth Jazz Covers from David Sanborn, Dana Owens, Grover W Jr, George Benson & much more
• Sat. Aug. 30th – RHYTHM SUITE (featuring: Sandy Harvey & Keely Whitney, Performing Old Skool, R&B, Soul, Jazz & Pop)

So, please welcome 909 to the B-Town Blog by clicking on their Ad, checking out their website, and especially dropping in to enjoy their great coffee, food, wine and live music!

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B-Town Blog Advertiser and longtime Burien winery E.B. Foote Winery has just announced that they are now selling wines online.

From their press release:

Gas prices getting you down?

Want to enjoy E. B. Foote wines but can’t get to the winery? 

You can now order E. B. Foote wines online! 

The Current Releases page of our website has a list of the wines that are for sale, prices, descriptions and awards won, AND you can order the wines you want to be shipped to you.  Wine can be shipped to adults in Washington State only.  All you need is a credit card and an address.  Wine will be shipped via FedEx, and adult signature is required for delivery. (Wine Club members — of course you pay the Wine Club price on your order.) 

There is a shipping charge, and the shipping amount is determined by the quantity of wine you order.  Once you place an order, the order is e-mailed to us on a secure line, your credit card is processed, the wine is shipped, and you receive an e-mail with your FedEx tracking number.  

It’s that simple.  Gas is expensive but good wine is priceless – why drive when you can have it delivered?

Wine Club members — If you haven’t picked up your July wine yet, please do so by Labor Day weekend.  If you want it shipped, there will be an additional shipping charge of $12 plus tax put on your credit card on file.  Just let us know by phone or e-mail if you want us to ship it to you.

Summer is in full swing with plenty of sunshine and lots of activities to keep everyone busy.  As you plan your fun, we hope you’ll plan to join us over Labor Day weekend to toast the end of the summer with great prices on wine.  In honor of the winery’s 30th anniversary, we’ll have 30% off selected wines.  (Wine Club members save even more!)  There will be eight wines for sampling and snacks to go with them.  The $5 tasting fee will be applied toward a wine purchase.  (No tasting fee for Wine Club members or Volunteer Vintners.)   This would be a great way to end a great summer.

What’s this Wine Club you keep reading about?  If you like E. B. Foote wines and want to save money on every purchase, you want to join our Wine Club.  There is no cost to join!  Wine Club members receive three bottles of wine each quarter, and always receive a discount on wine purchases.  When new wines are released in December and February and April, Wine Club members receive them before the release date.  The July wines are half-price.  When it’s time for your Wine Club wine, we send you an e-mail telling you which wines you are getting, the amount to be charged to your card, and when you can come to pick it up OR when it will be shipped.  Wine Club members do not pay a tasting fee to attend our special weekend events. 

To join, go the the Wine Club page of our website for an application that can be faxed or brought in for immediate membership and savings.

For more info, go to the E.B. Foote website.

 by Scott Schaefer

Explosive 4th of July weekend for sure in the B-Town area, with plenty of fireworks, fun and the usual “look outs!” along with our own very unique and unforgettable personal experience:

Down at Three Tree Point, there’s an annual $21,000+ neighborhood fireworks show that goes off around 10:20pm. It’s very popular, and it turns the entire ‘hood into one giant block party, with a flag raising ceremony, kids’ parade, live band and more, all climaxing in a great fireworks display.

This is the one day per year where Maplewild Ave SW does its best impression of the road that lead to Woodstock in ‘69, chock full of young people gathering for something cool and special, all the while invading other folks’ neighborhood, parking spots and yards.

The strangest thing about suddenly having your neighborhood invaded by hundreds of younger folks isn’t their language, fashions or music – it’s in the backpacks that 90% of all the young men are sporting.

“Backpacks?” methinks, “why these hearty young men must’ve hiked from miles away to join our festive and friendly party! There must be provisions, water, first aid kits…all the necessary items for a full day’s safe hike, right? Welcome to our front lawn you wise young souls!!!”

14 bottle rockets, 11 Roman Candles and 349 firecrackers later, I finally figured out what was in the backpacks. Let’s just say that their “provisions” weren’t entirely legal, and consisted of items that included either gunpowder from China or 40-ounce bottles from 7-11.

Oh well – I was young once, and I could relate, so no big whoop.

Me and the family snaked through the dangerous ’splosions and got prime seats to watch the annual pyrotechnics display, and as we waited, were entertained by about 6-8 young folks who were imbibing quite heavily (cheap shared Carlo Rossi wine from a jug anyone?) and cursing like drunk sailors at a longshoreman’s convention (only these drunk longshoremen wore backpacks).

After briefly (and carefully) requesting they “watch their mouths” (which they agreed to and complied with for about 30 seconds), one of the more drunken young lads suddenly started challenging his friends and betting that he could swim out to an anchored boat and back “for 10 bucks!”

Being the naturally skeptical type, I doubted that anything would happen. I’ve been around tons of drunk sailors at longshoremen’s conventions, and I know the drill. And for a measly $10 bucks? Ha.

Then the dude whips off his shirt and starts stripping down, insisting that his buddies pay him “10 bucks” to swim out and back to a boat about 150-175 feet off shore.

Keep in mind that this was around 9:45pm at night. Water temp had to be in the low 50s at best. And from what I’ve heard and read, at that temp, hypothermia can kick in within 12 minutes.

Still being skeptical, I watch in amazement as the dude strips down to his shorts, takes off his shoes and quickly jumps over some rocks onto the sand.

Next thing you know, he’s swimming out toward the boat in the dark.

So I pull out my cell phone, unlock it and get ready to dial 911, and in my mind I’m thinking: “Wow, I’ve never seen someone drown before…but maybe that’s what Independence Day is for – making us independent of stupid people!”

The drunk dude is swimming. In. The. Cold. Dark. Puget. Sound. Water. I’m getting chilled just watching him. About 50 feet out, he pauses; starts hesitating. My fingers start twitching. It’s been at least 7 minutes. It’s kind of hard to see him too with the low light and cloud cover.

“This is it,” I think to myself in my most morbid, dark and evil Mr. Burns-like voice, “This is when his head suddenly drops under, and he disappears from sight. Release the frowns!”

His semi-incoherent buddies of course are all still swearing in front of my chitlins in their own little world, but at this point it doesn’t matter ‘cuz I’m worried that he’s gonna die. In front of my kids.

Of course, the drunk dude decides to pause and wade for about five seconds, then resumes his swim using a breast stroke. Now he’s moving slower, but still making progress toward the boat! About ten seconds later, he reaches the boat.

We’re at around 12 minutes now. Uh-oh.

“If he’s smart, he’ll climb on the boat, wait a few minutes, warm up, then signal for help…right?” says my inner, most hopeful Mister Rogers voice.

Wrong.

He oh-so-slowly shimmies his way around the bow of the boat, and of course, disappears from our sight.

15 minutes.

Now this scenario is rivaling any fireworks display I’ve ever seen by about 1,000 times. I mean, the kid’s totally blitzed, he’s swimming at night in – The. Cold. Puget. Sound. We can’t see him now…and for what?

$10 bucks!

So I’m straining my eyes now to find his head in the water. Nothing. I strain some more. Pull out the cell. Think about things I’ve heard about how every second counts in cold water situations…should I just dial 911 now, knowing that it’d take B.F.D. at least 10 minutes just to get here? Then another 10 or so to launch their rescue boat and find the drunk dude who was last seen slowly hanging onto the boat before disappearing? That’d be 20 minutes or so of him underwater in Puget Sound? Hmmm…

As I’m visualizing the entire doom and gloom scenario, wifey chimes in and says “I can see his head!”

Sure enough, the drunk dude’s now swimming back towards shore like a seal, his head bobbing up and down as he does his breast stroke.

“He’s not sleeping with da fishes yet,” shouts the inner hopeful Mr. Rogers in my head.

“Ah, but just you wait,” says Mr. Knowitall Morbidiardo on the other side of my head. “He’s still got at least 75 feet to go, and by now the hypothermia most certainly must be affecting his muscles…”

20 minutes now and he’s almost to shore. But wait – he pauses again! Is this it? Luckily no; he resumes and pretty soon he’s walking back up to his plastered buds and demanding his $10 smackers.

Mother-in-law of course decides to chime in, exhorting “Hypothermia and alcohol don’t mix very well!” to the youngster, who ignore her as best they can.

The dude demands his ten spot and the unlucky bet loser whips it out. Of course, since the drunk dude is much shorter, the guy holds the Hamilton up and makes the guy jump for it. Ouch.

I see now that the dude is shivering. Wifey offers her blanket to me and I take it, walk over and wrap it around the dude. I ask him if he’s shivering at all, and of course he says “no way man” in his most macho yet slurred and shivery voice he can muster. I tell him to watch for signs of hypothermia but can tell that he’s much more interested in signs of acceptance from his peers.

Soon the dude has his clothes back on and off he goes with his group, like it was just another 4th of July at the point.

I have no idea if he ended up with hypothermia in the hospital, but I hope that he’s okay, and know that, at the very least, he’s at least $10 bucks richer.

(hey drunk dude, if you’re reading this, please email me – I’d like to make sure that you’re okay…)

Coriander, a “spicy little parable about policy” opens next Friday (July 11th) at E.B. Foote Winery (a BTB Advertiser), located at 127-B SW 153rd in downtown Burien.

From their press release:

A tunnel?  A surface street?  A bridge?

Watch the Gods and the Greeks debate policy in Coriander

BURIEN — Breeders Theater offers a spicy little tale about urban policy in its new show, Coriander. 

In the ancient Greek city-state of Aurora, where the living is above-average and housing prices are high, they might need a road to open up some new land.  The road would have to pass through the Garden of the Oracle, raising the ire of people of faith.  Meanwhile, some folks favor a surface street; some a tunnel; and some a bridge. 

In the middle of this is Coriander, chief administrator of the government, caught between the factions (including Tentacles, the developer, and the passionate radical Antagone), angry Gods, and the city council, led by Dimes, Draco and Ricotta, who are deep in the land of process.   And wither old King Freon?

The script and lyrics of Coriander are by T.M. Sell, with music by Nancy Warren.  Martin J. Mackenzie directs, with choreography by Teresa Widner and costumes by Melissa Sell.

Scott Green stars as Coriander, with Eric Hartley, Doug Knoop, Steve Scheide, Adrienne Grieco, Melissa Malloy, Julie Wenzel, Marianne Everett, Steve Coffey, Amber Rack, Jackie Graybill and Mark Wenzel.

The show will be at E.B. Foote Winery in Burien, 127B SW 153rd St.

The show runs July 11-12, 16, 18-20, 23-27.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with show time at 7 p.m., and 1:30/2 p.m. on Sunday, July 20 and 27. 

Tickets are still only $20, which includes wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres.

Visit the winery or call for tickets: 206-242-3852 or check out breederstheater.com. (Credit cards accepted with a $5 fee per ticket OR your credit card can guarantee the tickets, and you can pay at the door with cash or check.)

Here’s a Q&A with Coriander’s prolific local Playwright TM Sell, who also serves as a Professor of Journalism and Political Science at Highline Community College:

Q: Why is your new play named after a spice? Will you be serving any cilantro during the play (cilantro is derived from Coriander)?

A: As often happens, I start with a title.  I can’t tell you why.  I like good titles, not that mine are.  Then I see what’s either going on in the world, or something that’s been bugging me, and try see where the title gets me to saying something about that topic.  Coriander sounds like an old Greek name, and the Greeks were one of the inventors of theater, so that gave me a way of creating a situation that, as it turns out, has parallels to ours.

Q: What is Coriander about?

A: This play is about a couple of things: the public policy process and the nature of religion.  Politics and religion are two of my favorite subjects, which most people don’t want to talk about.  So if I get them to laugh, perhaps they’ll think about it a little more.

In the Ancient Greek city-state of Aurora, a developer wants to put a road to some fresh land for more housing, and Aurora, as the most desirable place in Ancient Greece in which to live, is short of housing.  But the road will go through the Garden of the Oracle, a disused but very holy site.  And in Aurora, that means you need a hearing, and public debate, and a lot of process.  In the middle of this is Coriander, a civil servant and a virtuous man, caught between various factions within the city and the city council.  Meanwhile the Gods are deciding whether to intervene.

Q: Any parallels to the “real world” to this topic?

A: Very strong parallels between our own political process, and the attitudes of some people about the world and how it should be.

Q: Any parallels to the “old Greek” drama world to this?

A: We do have a Geek chorus, though I haven’t used it quite like the Greeks would have.

Q: Was there ever a viaduct in Greece?

A: No, but the Romans built a lot of aqueducts.

Q: Talk about your writing process – how do you come up with story ideas? How do you then go about writing an entire play? How many drafts before you’re happy? Does anyone review/edit your work? etc.

A: The first thing I need is an idea.  Then I make notes about the plot.  When I’ve got that figured out, and if I have uninterrupted time, I just start writing.  I get pretty deep into that process, and I really enjoy it.  The first draft won’t take more than three or four days.  I then have to go over it a few more times, with less major surgery on each succeeding draft.  And then we read it, and members of the company make comments.  And even then, in the rehearsal process, people will think of things they like or that don’t make sense, or I’ll hear a line that’s just wooden or a joke that gets in the way, and revisions happen.

Q: You seem to be a very prolific writer – how many plays a year do you churn out?

A: Two a year.

Q: In April, we posted an audition notice for Coriander – how did the auditions go? Anyone new/interesting? Anything unusual?

A: Auditions are always odd and interesting.  You never know who will show up.  We didn’t get many men this time, but we got some very good women, and we did OK in filling what we needed filled.  Most of the company are people who have worked with BT before, and it helps to know somebody to get in.  Group chemistry is very important.  We don’t make enough money to deal with people who are high maintenance.

Q: Will the alleged, impending recession affect theaters? Why/why not?

A: Spending on entertainment is discretionary spending, so yes, of course, that makes it harder to sell tickets.  But I think we tend to fall into the category of an affordable luxury, and at $20 the tickets are cheap enough.  Also, the economy in King County is so far in much better shape than it is in other places.

Q: Should people bring jackets to EB Foote or will it not be so cold this time?

A: The winery has air conditioning for summer, which gets turned off during the show.  So it should be fairly comfortable.

Q: On a more important note, what is your take on the B-Town Blog’s progress and rising popularity?

A: Are you getting lots of traffic?  Then there’s room for more venues for information.  That’s the good news.  The other news is, in my limited understanding, if finding a way to make internet information sites profitable.  At least your costs are lower than those of a full-fledged newspaper.

This Reporter previously enjoyed a wonderfully fulfilling and entertaining “cheap date” out for TM Sell’s previous play Crazy/Naked, held at E.B. Foote last fall. We recommend it highly.

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127-B SW 153rd in downtown Burien:

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Please raise a glass and make a toast to our latest Advertiser: E.B. Foote Winery!

Wait, you’re saying…there’s an actual Winery in Burien?

Why yes, there is…and it’s called E.B. Foote Winery.

It was founded in 1978 by Eugene Foote, and it is one of the oldest wineries in Washington State.

In 1991, Rich Higginbotham and Sherrill Miller became the owners and winemakers and they moved the winery from south Seattle to Burien in 1999.

The grapes come from the Columbia Valley in eastern Washington and are trucked in.  The grape hauling, crush, press, fermenting, bottling, labeling, and sales are done right at the winery in Burien.  The winery makes approximately 2,200 cases each year.  All the winemaking is done at the winery in Burien with the help of their Volunteer Vintners.

The winery is open for free tasting and tours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or by appointment.  Since the winery is small, tasting is done in the winery itself, not in a separate tasting room.  The temperature in the winery can be quite cool, as a wine cellar should be.  Both white and red wines are available for tasting and purchase in the winery gift shop.

These award-winning wines may include:

• Chardonnay
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Syrah
• Red Zinfandel
• Red blends
• Sweet Sherrill, a Riesling-like wine

The winery has six annual events: 

• For Valentine’s Day it’s Red Wine and Chocolate, where a variety of chocolates are offered to sample along with red wines
• To brighten the doldrums of winter, March has Step Into Spring
• The May Barrel Tasting has a barrel sample of a future release
• Father’s Day Weekend in June is a chance to enjoy wine with dad
• Labor Day weekend sees the Summer Celebration with 10%-30% off all wine purchases
• In December it’s the Christmas Open House

At these events, appetizers are served that compliment the wines, and new wines are released.

For three weekends in January and July, a local, professional theater group (Breeders Theater) puts on original comedy plays in the middle of the winery.  These shows are fun, entertaining adult humor with no profanity.  A $20 ticket includes wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, and the play.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: We here at the B-Town Blog have been to one of these comedy play/wine tasting event, and we whole-heartedly endorse this as a very affordable, fun, worthwhile event worth attending – great wine, excellent snacks and outstanding live entertainment – what's not to like?]

Sherrill strives to make award-winning wines from premium Washington grapes.  The wines started winning awards with the 1992 vintage and these accolades have continued.  Their success is a result of hard work and Bacchus’ blessings.

E.B. Foote Winery produces quality wines at an affordable price. Because it’s not about what it costs. It’s about how it tastes.

Celebrating 30 years as a Washington winery, please welcome E.B. Foote Winery to the B-Town Blog by clicking on their ad on the Right Sidebar and checking them out!

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127 SW 153rd St. (downstairs in the lower level) in Burien, and their phone numer is (206) 242-3852:

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 Celebrate all things Italian in Burien from Wed. June 25th to Fri. June 27th, as numerous restaurants, retail and other B-Town businesses share superb speciales during “Festa Italiana.”

Visit these merchants and enjoy “the sweet life” with discounts, special menus, wine tastings, give-aways, and more!

909 Coffee & Wine
$7 of any bottle of wine ($25 or more)

Angelo’s of Burien
Free Bruschetta with the purchase of a bottle of wine

ALLUSIA
15% off selected “Italian-Themed” merchandise, 40% & 50% off selected Merchandise

Card Bar
Abbondio Italian Soda Tasting, Buy 5 cards get the 6th card free

Frame & Save
25% off all Italian moldings, 20% off all custom work

 Gehl’s Flowers & Gifts
10% off all merchandise

Glass Expressions
10% off all italian Glass Jewelry & Beads

Goodie Gumdrops
10% any purchase of $20 or more, 20% off Sevi & Quercetti Italian Toys

Hey Paison
Daily drawing for $25 gift certificate

Mark Restaurant & Bar
50% off Italian wines and nightly food specials

 OptiMark Eyecare
Italian eyewear Trunk Show

 Osteria da Primo
Enjoy free coffee after your meal (including espresso drinks), Wine flight paired with our weekly specials

 Poggi Bonsi
20% off everything in the store! Italian flag give-away

 Poggi Bonsi Cucina
20% off everything in the store! Italian chocolate & wine Friday 3-5pm

 Sal’s Deli
Buy one, get one free Italian Grinder Sandwich

 SkinPerfect Aesthetics
50% off selected merchandise, Free Gift w$100 purchase

 The Yarn Stash
20% off all Italian yarns, Free basic knit stitch class

 Vino Bello
Italian Wine by the Glass Specials

 Zizia
15% off all merchandise, featuring jewelry by Elaine Alhadeff