Bake’s Place

4135 Providence Point Dr. S.E., Issaquah, 425-391-3335

2-03: Butch Harrison & Good Company

More: www.bakesplace.org

Benaroya Hall

200 University Street, Seattle, 206-215-4800

2-02/05: Bond and Beyond – 50 Years

2-11: Andre Feriante – In the Theater of Love

2-18/19: Seattle Women’s Chorus – Shot Through the Heart

2-22/23: Itzhak Perlman with Seattle Symphony

2-24: Celebrate Asia

More: www.seattlesymphony.org

Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley

Sixth Avenue & Lenora Street, Seattle, 206-441-9729

2-01: Kim Wilson’s Blues All Stars

2-0708: Bobby Broom and The Deep Blue Organ Trio

2-09/12: Tower of Power

2-23/26, 2-29: Pete Escovedo Latin Jazz Orchestra

More: www.jazzalley.com

El Corazon Seattle

109 Eastlake Ave., E., Seattle, 206-381-3094

2-01: Evolove

2-04: The Toasters

2-18: Anvil

2-27: Every Avenue/We Are The In Crowd

More: www.elcorazonseattle.com

Emerald Queen Casino

5700 Pacific Highway East, Fife, 253-594-7777

2-03: Styx

2-17: Natalie Cole

More: www.emeraldqueen.com

Kirkland Performance Center

350 Kirkland Avenue, Kirkland, 425-893-9900

2-11: Alpha Yaya Diallo

2-14: Jake Bergevin – My Funny Valentine

More: www.kpcenter.org

McCaw Hall

321 Mercer Street Seattle. 206-733-9725

2-07/08: Shen Yun Performing Arts 2012 Tour

More: www.seattlecenter.com/events

Neptune Theatre

1303 NE 45th Street, Seattle, 206-781-5755

2-04: Los Campesinos!

2-09: The Jayhawks

2-11: Stone In Love – Journey Tribute Band

2-17: Damien Jurado

More: www.stgpresents.org/neptune

Paramount Theatre

911 Pine Street, Seattle, 206-467-5510

2-10: 24th Annual On Wings of Hope Benefit

2-28: The Fray

More: www.stgpresents.org/paramount

Showbox SODO

1426 First Avenue, Seattle, 206-628-3151

2-02: Excision

2-10: Mutemath

2-25: Rebelution

More: www.showboxonline.com/events.php

Snoqualmie Casino

37500 SE North Bend Way, Snoqualmie, 425-888-1234

2-02: Herman’s Hermits

2-10: Tony Orlando

2-12: Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds

More: www.snocasino.com

Tacoma Dome

2727 East D Street Tacoma. 253-272-3663

2-11: Brad Paisley 2012 Camobunga World Tour

www.tacomadome.org

The Tractor Tavern

2-01: Graveyard Radio, Moscow & Sandrider

2-04: Grand Hallway, Laura Gibson & The Devil Whale

2-09: Blvd Park & Nettle Honey

2-13: The Tallboys

2-15: The Grizzled Mighty, Sundries & Mystery Ship

2-27: The Tallboys

Triple Door

216 Union Street, Seattle, 206-838-4333

2-01: Teitur with Aunt Martha

2-04: Soul Salvation, Ruthie Foster & Paul Thorn

2-05: John Cruz

2-10: John Gorka

2-14: Sinatra At The Sands

2-16: Andy McKee & Anthoine Dufour

2-22: Wonda Shepard w/Jill Cohn

2-23/24: Sandra Bernhard

2-25: Massy Ferguson with The BGP

More: www.tripledoor.com

By Gabrielle Nomura

A career in entertainment was virtually pre-ordained for Pauly Montgomery Shore, also known by his alter-ego “The Weasel.” At age 4, he sat on the lap of Elvis himself; Shore’s father, comedian Sammy Shore, opened for Elvis during the early ’70s. Around the same time, Shore’s parents opened The Comedy Store on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, giving their son the rare opportunity to hang out and be inspired by such rising talents as Robin Williams, David Letterman and the late Sam Kinison, who became Pauly’s mentor.

Before he starred in beloved cheesy ’90s movies, “Encino Man,” “Son-in-law” and “Bio-Dome,” he was an MTV host sensation, rising to national attention during a strong four-year run on the TV network.

SCENE: Describe your standup in one word.

PS: Laid back.

SCENE: Do you stay in touch with any of your costars from some of your most well-known films such as “Encino Man” or “Bio-Dome”? Sean Astin, Brandan Fraser, etc.?

PS: I try to, but they won’t return my calls.

SCENE: How rude!

PS: No, I’m just kidding. I just did a show with Andy Dick in the fall (Shore co-starred with Dick in the film, “In the Army Now,” 1994). No one really stays in touch with other actors. If you bump into them, you say hi and have fond memories of those times together. But working on a movie is kind of like a circus, where you just get together with these people for a limited time, then move on.

SCENE: What is your favorite movie you’ve made and why?

PS: “Son in Law” really took me out of the teeny-bopper genres and put me into mainstream awareness.

SCENE: You gained national attention from 1989 to 1994, as an MTV host, and even had your own show, “Totally Pauly” at one point. Describe what MTV did for your career.

PS: When I came on to the MTV scene at the time, they were very East-Coast based, not stuck up, but kind of anal and by-the-books. Then my stuff just kind of came out of nowhere and broke the mold. I was California-laid-back going into an East Coast establishment. I knew then that my style was either going to really take off or it was going to suck. Thankfully, it didn’t suck.

SCENE: You mentioned that your standup style was laid back. Does that have to do with your West Coast roots?

PS: No, I mean, I’m 43 now. I’m a lot different now than I was back then. Back then, life was more of a party. Now, it’s pretty stuck up, it’s good and it’s bad. Luckily I’m not divorced, I don’t have kids who hate me or anything. I’ve had my ups and my downs, but I think I’ve come out on top.

SCENE: What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

PS: I like to go to the Russian-Turkish bathhouse and relax with the Jews. Do you think people would be surprised by that? I’m not sure.

SCENE: Tell me about the relationship between you and the audience during your routine on stage.

PS: It’s like I’m a lion tamer, and the audience is a big lion you have to keep grouped together, or I’m a doctor who goes in there and operates on the audience.

Pauly Shore will perform at the Parlor Live Comedy Club on Feb. 9-11. For tickets, go to www.parlorlive.com.

Let me be clear, I’m not walking down the aisle anytime soon. My left hand is still bling-free, except for the occasional glittery nail polish. While I would love to go to Hawaii or Mexico ASAP, it certainly won’t be on a honeymoon.

While The Boy and I will soon celebrate our fourth year of happily holding the rope at both ends, so-to-speak, others are getting ready to actually tie the knot. After all, it’s winter – wedding-planning season; not to be confused with wedding-ceremony season (spring and summer).

I’ve been learning a lot about what it takes to plan a wedding from my lovely colleague – Brianna Butterfield. Brianna, an advertising/sales representative with a journalism degree, eloquently shares her story of planning a classic, outdoor affair, where she will wed the love of her life, Paul.

You don’t have to be getting hitched anytime soon to appreciate a good romance, and all the juicy details of someone else’s wedding. I certainly loved hearing about the cupcake tasting, the gorgeous Luly Yang gowns, and the surprising proposal in Brianna’s story.

But what I really appreciate is how she talks about the difference between a wedding and a real relationship.

Often, I think we are seduced by the pretty pictures in magazines, the myths of overly-simplified happily ever-afters.

Real life isn’t like that.

Whether it’s getting through a fight or planning a wedding – relationships take a lot of hard work. Of course, those tougher moments will be intertwined with moments of bliss, too.

The trick is to find the person who can handle love’s challenges, as well as its rewards.

Those are special people. Hold on to them.

Wednesday, 2-1 to Sunday, 2-12

‘Cavalia’ at Marymoor Park

This show is a fresh mix of equestrian and performing arts, multimedia and special effects. Conceived by Normand Latourelle and often labelled an equestrian ballet, ‘Cavalia’ is a moving tribute to the relationship between men and horses throughout history. The animals express themselves, often completely free, in all their splendor, nobility and strength.

Times vary. 6046 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond.
1-866-999-8111,  http://unrevedeliberte.cavalia.net/en/

Thursday, 2-2 to Sunday, 2-5

Bellevue Civic Theatre presents ‘Hay Fever’ at the Theatre at Meyenbauer Center

Beloved British Playwright Noel Coward sends the audience on holiday with the eccentric, and somewhat self-absorbed, Bliss family. The four Bliss family members spend the weekend in their country home and, unbeknownst to each other, have each invited a romantic prospect. As the unsuspecting romantic prospects begin to arrive and family members each discover the increasing number of guests, the Bliss family lives up to its name as the “quiet weekend” comes to an exhausting and hilarious finale.

Times vary. 11100 NE Sixth St., Belleuve. 800-838-3006. brownpapertickets.com

Thursday, 2-2 to Sunday, 6-10

‘¡Caliente!’ at Teatro ZinZanni

Unleash your inner jalapeño at this show, where Christine Deaver and Robert Lopez (a.k.a. El Vez) return to Seattle to create the new characters Tres and Cinco, a brother-sister team who electrify the circus tent with Latin flavor.

Times vary. 222 Mercer St., Seattle. 206-802-0015, dreams.zinzanni.org

Friday, 2-3

‘Tao: The Way of the Drum’ at the Moore Theatre

Athletic bodies and contemporary costumes meet explosive Taiko drumming and innovative choreography in a show that has critics raving about TAO’s extraordinary precision, energy, and stamina. The troupe offers a young and modern take on a traditional art form.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. 1932 Second Ave., Seattle. 1-877-784-4849, stgpresents.org.

Saturday, 2-11 to Sunday, 2-12

‘Chop Shop: Bodies of Work’ at the Theatre at Meydenbauer Center

Now celebrating its fifth year, Chop Shop is the only annual contemporary dance festival held specifically for the Eastside. This event serves up a unique sampling of contemporary dance from leading national and international award-winning dance makers from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Show times: 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 11 and 3 p.m. Feb. 12. 11100 NE Sixth St., Bellevue. 206-799-6004, chopshopdance.org.

Wednesday, 2-21 to Sunday, 2-26

STG Presents ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at Paramount Theatre

“Be our guest” to this Disney-inspired family favorite.

Times vary. 911 Pine St., Seattle. 1-877-784-4849, stgpresents.org.

Playing now until Sunday, 3-25

‘The Odd Couple’ at Village Theatre

One of Neil Simon’s most recognizable and timeless comedies, ‘The Odd Couple’ has been entertaining audiences for nearly 50 years. Coming together as a last resort, two roommates are out about to enter into a hilarious battle of wills that will lead to sheer mayhem and laugh-out-loud comedy.

Times vary. 303 Front Street North, Issaquah, WA 98027. 206-802-0015, villagetheatre.org.

Saturday, 2-25

‘Stars on Ice’ at KeyArena

The Emmy-award winning tour includes innovative choreography, music and stunning costumes, featuring skating superstars Sasha Cohen, Ekaterina Gordeeva, Ilia Kulik, Kurt Browning and many more performing live.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. 305 Harrison St., Seattle. 1-800-745-3000, keyarena.com.

Jacquelyn Jaech at the Fred Hutch Gala in December 2011. Duell fisher for Team Photogenic © 2012

Style Watch Column by Rose Dennis

It’s the time of year when calendars start to fill with fundraisers and galas to attend. Whether the attire is business, cocktail or black tie, we should plan ahead to find the perfect dress to wear.

Updating an outfit that we already have in our closet with new accessories always works. With “color” being one of the big trends for spring, purchasing brightly-hued shoes and handbags in pink or yellow (the new neutral) will make you look up-to-date.

Colorful prints are also in fashion, and will freshen up any look. Fortunately, in our area it’s acceptable to be seen in an outfit more than once, and it’s OK if it wasn’t just seen on the runway in Paris or New York.

Whether you decide to wear something new, vintage, or pre-existing in your closet, make sure that it fits properly and accentuates your body silhouette. As our body shape changes, it’s important to constructively look at yourself in front of a full-length mirror and see if you look the way that you want to.

Most events will have a professional photographer taking photos to document the event, which adds importance to looking great on the red carpet. Have your hair and makeup professionally done to accent your look.

Knowing how to pose is also important: If you decide to have one hand on your hip, be sure that all of your fingers are close together, with your other arm down. If you feel self-conscious about your arms, cover them with long sleeves or a shawl; if your thighs or calves bother you, by all means, wear a longer dress. Never hold a beverage glass; try to cross one leg in front of the other and smile!

Andrea Ward and Duell Fisher at the Fred Hutchinson Gala in December 2011. MICHAEL NAIMAN for Team Photogenic © 2012

Carla Murray at the Fred Hutchinson Gala in December 2011. Duell Fisher for Team Photogenic © 2012

Rose Dennis has been singled out by numerous publications as Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker. She lives in Bellevue.

Yuan Spa

By Tiffany Vu | Courtesy Photos

More than three years have now passed since the beginning of the economic recession — three years in which families and businesses throughout the region have found themselves cutting back in order to stay afloat.

Yet, at spas throughout the Puget Sound, customers keep coming, plunking down sometimes hundreds of dollars for a manicure, a facial or an aromatic message.

“Gosh, today it’s packed,” says Bill Schultheis, co-owner of Bellevue’s Yuan Spa, on a Saturday morning two months after its grand opening. “We’re seeing a ton of repeat guests. If we provide something that is needed in our society with an authentic energy, people will respond.”

To Sun Lee, owner of Olympus Spa in Lynnwood, it all makes perfect sense. Spa-going, he says, is an excellent way to maintain one’s health.

“The body has to stay healthy in order to do anything,” Lee says. “People are spending even $100 on vitamins … Despite the economy, you have to take care of your health.”

Most spas in the area focus on both beauty and relaxation, offering a bevy of facial and hair treatments, waxing, massages, manicures and pedicures. Chains such as Gene Juarez and Red Door may have more specialized offerings, such as reiki therapy, milk baths or shiatsu massages.

Both Yuan and Olympus market themselves a hybrid of Western technology and Eastern tradition — Chinese in Yuan’s case, Korean in Olympus’. Lee goes into great detail describing Olympus’ “radiant heat energy rooms” adapted from Korean tradition, while Yuan encourages its guests to go through its “hydrotherapy cycle.”

First-time goers may find the spa experience somewhat alien. Secluded in rooms of pools and indoor waterfalls, where the standard uniform is a spa-provided bathrobe (or, ahem, even less), one may feel vulnerable without their clothes, and without their cell phones (most businesses enforce strict policies against cell phone usage). Massages often require that the visitor remove all his or her clothing, though Gene Juarez says that “careful draping procedures are observed at all times.”

Olympus Spa

Whatever a new spa-goer has to get used to, Schultheis says the spa experience is tailored to the visitor’s comfort level.

“We’re just inviting them to participate and experience a comfort level that is right for them,” Schultheis says. “So many times I hear women say, ‘It’s such a comfortable feeling to be one with my body and with other people’s bodies and not have to be this certain image.’”

Lee says spas help maintain not only the visitors’ physical health, but also mental and emotional health by providing a place to relax alone or with their friends.

“Mentally and psychologically, it brings out unity” when clients visit in groups, Schultheis says. “It’s a special location where they can get together, where they find the space and time to enjoy their relationship.”

Sherry Quintal, business manager of Frenchy’s Day Spa and Beauty Boutique in Seattle, says people would be surprised how non-intimidating the spa experience is.

“I would say men [in particular] are apprehensive, then they come back,” she says. “They have a preconceived idea of what it’s like, and it isn’t that way; it’s comfortable, friendly.”

While Frenchy’s specializes in cosmetics and beauty treatments, Quintal added that the emphasis isn’t on trying to be beautiful. Customers experience beauty, but the caring, come-and-be-pampered atmosphere lets them know they don’t have to work hard at anything here, she says. Except, maybe, trying to relax.

Red Door

There are numerous spas in Bellevue and the surrounding area. Here is a sample:

Yuan Spa

1031 106th Ave.NE, Bellevue

425-449-8788

www.yuanspa.com

All day Thursday, women only
in bathing pools, steam and sauna
rooms; spa treatments open to co-ed

Red Door Spa

The Shops at The Bravern,
700 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue,

425-455-3700

www.reddoorspas.com

Sun | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Mon | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Tue-Wed | 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.;
Thurs – Fri | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
Sat | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Gene Juarez

550 106th Ave, NE, Suite 105, Bellevue

425-455-5511

www.genejuarez.com/salons-and-spas/bellevue.aspx

Mon – Wed | 9 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.;
Thurs – Fri | 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.;
Sat | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
Sun | 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Olympus Spa

3815 196th St. SW, Suite 160, Lynnwood

425-697-3000

www.olympusspa.net

Women only spa

Mon – Thurs | 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.;
Fri – Sat | 9 a.m. to midnight;
closed Sundays

Frency’s Day Spa

3131 East Madison St., Suite 103, Seattle

206-325-9582

www.frenchysdayspa.com/index.php

Mon | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
Tue | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
Wed | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Thurs | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
Fri – Sat | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Sun | 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Olympus Spa

Valua Vitaly © 2011 Photos.com, a division of Getty Images. All rights reserved

In search of a better body, millions of people are choosing plastic surgery. But here’s what you should know before spending the big bucks and taking your chances under the knife

By Gabrielle Nomura

Imagine being so self-conscious, that even your husband of 10 years has never seen you completely naked.

That used to be Sara Hagen.

In an emotional testimonial video on a Seattle plastic surgeon’s website, the 36-year-old mother of two tells the story of how her body, and self-confidence, underwent a transformation a year ago.

That’s when she flew from her home in Bozeman, Mont., to downtown Seattle to get a “mommy makeover.” This series of cosmetic surgical procedures, that takes place during just one session, included a tummy tuck, breast lift and breast augmentation.

Hagen had been thinking about getting the makeover ever since giving birth to her first daughter in 2004. But after her second daughter was born in 2008, it was time to take action.

Despite Hagen’s slender figure, dark brown hair and killer smile, looking at herself in the mirror was “traumatic,” she says. It was past the point where diet and exercise could have helped. After her abdominal muscles had separated because of her pregnancies, what was left was a scarred, stretched surface. It was difficult to live with – despite having a husband who reassured her that she was beautiful.

Because her options in Montana were limited, Hagen set out to find a plastic surgeon who would be just one direct flight away. After a year of doing her homework of finding a qualified surgeon online, and three or four months of travel and consultations in areas that included Denver and California, Hagen found her surgeon in Seattle – Dr. Shahram Salemy.

The board-certified, Yale graduate had the winning credentials. Plus, he was just a nice guy.

“His personality was very warm, like ‘He’s not just going to tell me what I want to hear,” Hagen says. “I had some questions and he answered them incredibly well to the point where I could understand.”

Hagen was impressed when Salemy called her at home after the first consultation, just to say it was nice to meet her and that he was available for questions. Salemy further impressed Hagen when he came in to do her procedure on a day off, because her scheduled appointment ended up coinciding closely with the birth of his child.

A little tender, a little painful at first – it didn’t take long for Hagen to recover from the procedures to her abdomen and breasts.

After a week of rest in Seattle, then a couple more weeks of downtime at home in Montana, Hagen was back to work at the local Harley-Davidson dealer.

She still has stretch marks, and will always have a scar from her surgeries, but they’re fading – along with her negative body image, she says.

Now, a year after her January 2011 surgery, Hagen has paid off the $18,000 makeover. She didn’t choose the cheapest surgeon; she chose the one who had the most experience and a personality she connected with.

The thousands of dollars, pain, recovery time, and even the potentially life-threatening risk of the surgery were worth it, she says.

“Dr. Shalemy gave me a body I could only have hoped to have.”

Sara Hagen, 36, underwent a ‘mommy makeover’ which included a tummy tuck, breast lift and breast augmentation, in January 2010. COURTESY PHOTO

_________________________________________________________

112,000

The number of tummy tucks in 2010, up 85 percent since 2000

90,000

The number of breast lifts in 2010, up 70 percent since 2000

__________________________________________________________

A GROWING TREND

The Montana mom is not alone.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of women electing to get mommy makeovers is on the rise.

Women had nearly 112,000 tummy tucks in 2010, up 85 percent since 2000; 90,000 breast lifts, up 70 percent since 2000; and 296,000 breast augmentations, up 39 percent since 2000.

“In the last decade, we’ve seen women’s attitudes about cosmetic surgery change,” says Dr. Phillip Haeck, immediate past ASPS president. “Today, women are not afraid to admit that they love their children, but they wish their bodies looked the way they did before their first pregnancies. And they’re not afraid to acknowledge that they may need a little help beyond a healthy diet and exercise.”

The mommy makeover is only one small piece in the soaring demand for plastic surgery.

Every year, millions of women and men are selecting surgical treatments to enhance, minimize, nip and tuck all manner of physical features. From face lifts and tummy tucks, breast augmentation and liposuction, to laser hair removal and Botox injections, there is a procedure out there that can repair, remove, lift and smooth just about every inch of the human body.

Technological advances have increased the options people can consider. Public opinion has changed, too. Once a taboo subject, plastic surgery now receives better treatment from the media, TV and popular culture. There’s even a TV show where brides-to-be compete against one another for the wedding of their dreams, expensive reception and dream honeymoon with new bridal boobs included.

HOW TO BE SAFE

Broader public acceptance and safer technology has helped bring on a demand for plastic surgery. It’s also brought on a multitude of individuals eager to cash in on a lucrative field.

When it comes to finding the right surgeon, it’s not time to bargain-hunt, says Dr. Sepehr Egrari, who has his own practice, and is also a staff member at Overlake Hospital Medical Center and Overlake Surgery Center. It’s about finding someone with the right credentials and a great track record. Doing one’s homework to find the right surgeon can mean the difference between impressive results and a botched surgery, or sometimes, even life and death.

Here’s what to do: First, when you’re interviewing a potential surgeon, ask him if he’s certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This is the only board that certifies plastic surgeons that is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialities.

If someone is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, it means he or she must first complete years of intensive training in an accredited program before passing the board’s rigorous written and oral exams.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery is not the same as the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Egrari says.  While it sounds similar, the latter is not recognized by the ABMS.

According to the board of cosmetic surgery’s website, this is superior to other boards for cosmetic surgery, as it is the only board certifying doctors in cosmetic surgery. However, many of the physicians so certified are oral surgeons, dentists, OB/Gyn, dermatologists, family practice doctors or internists.

Ask your doctor if he or she has privileges to perform  procedures in the local hospital, as well. Hospitals only allow the safest physicians with the right credentials to operate in their facilities.

It also helps to choose someone the patient has good chemistry with.

“You have to be able to trust this person with your life,” Egrari says.

Dr. Sepehr Egrari in the surgical suite at the Egrari Plastic Surgery Center in Bellevue on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011. Egrari is also a staff member at Overlake’s hospital and surgery center. His specialties include body contouring after weight loss. CHAD COLEMAN photo

A REAL SOLUTION?

When considering plastic surgery as an option, it’s also important to realize that a little nip-tuck can’t fix everything, says Katie Miller, an Everett resident and Amazon employee.

While Miller had a type of weight-loss surgery as opposed to a cosmetic procedure, she’s another example of how someone’s appearance, health and all-around well-being can be improved through surgery.

Several years ago, after her gastric bypass operation reduced her stomach from the size of a football to the size of an egg, Miller went from a size 22 to a size 8.

No matter if the surgery is for vanity or for health, don’t use it as a quick-fix, Miller says. It’s about a lifestyle change.

“Surgery was simply a tool to help me lose weight.”

But, while a slimmer waistline and a younger appearance can result from a procedure, experts debate whether plastic surgery can improve self-esteem.

Dr. Jonathan Brown

“Our capitalist society has an interest in keeping you insecure about yourself, because then they can sell you teeth-whitening, deodorant, weight loss, etc.,” says  Jonathan Brown, a University of Washington psychology professor with a Ph.D. from UCLA.

Having high self-esteem is simply an individual’s ability to be resilient in the face of rejection, failure or disappointment, Brown says. It involves coping and acceptance skills.

He compares someone with low self-esteem seeking plastic surgery to a diabetic seeking insulin.

Still, diabetics may need insulin, and some people may feel better after plastic surgery, says Dr. Ernest Madhavan, a Bellevue psychiatrist who teaches in the University of Washington’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science.

Change is a part of life, and when it leads to self-acceptance, it’s a good thing, Madhavan says.

“For example, when people say, ‘I feel better after losing weight,’ what they are really saying is, ‘I find myself more acceptable.’ ”

Self-acceptance could come from positive changes including quitting smoking, giving up certain foods such as gluten that could allow a person to lose weight and feel healthier, or even getting plastic surgery.

People who continue to feel inadequate despite repeated lifestyle changes may not benefit from plastic surgery, Madhavan says. In that case, psychotherapy to promote acceptance would likely be more helpful, rather than making a physical change.

After her mommy makeover, Hagen feels like she’s gained self-acceptance.

While some are OK with their post-baby bodies, she didn’t want to live with skin that sagged and draped from her frame.

“I wanted to feel good about myself. I wanted to fit into clothes.”

And now she does. For Hagen, the transformation on the inside was just as miraculous, if not more so, than her new body.

Dr. Ernest Madhavan

These beautiful and stylish ladies know how to look fabulous. They are my Top Five Ladies who always look like “A Lady.”

Style Watch Column by Rose Dennis

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Heidi Bretz

Heidi’s mother was a model, and her grandfather and great-grandfather were tailors, so she understands the art of good tailoring and fit.

She like cycling and skiing. This explains why she always looks great, especially on the red carpet.

Heather Baker

Heather has defined her own fashion style and knows how to pull together the designer looks that work for her. She is extremely fit, and whatever she decides to wear, her silhouette and attire are perfect for both her and the occasion.

Luly Yang

Luly Yang loves everything visual. Since opening her own couture boutique in downtown Seattle 10 years ago, she has been busy designing bridal gowns along with day and evening wear for her many clients. Her natural beauty and personal fashion style is sleek, feminine and classic.

Stacy Lill

Stacy loves fashion and her style of dress nicely accentuates her silhouette. Her style is often flirty, mysterious, and sometimes traditional, accented with bold accessories.

She enjoys working out, traveling, visiting museums, dancing, and spending time with friends. She takes the time to do all of these activities in style.

Darnell Sue

Darnell is the founder and CEO of Girl Power Hour, with the goal of striving to empower, celebrate and inspire women.

Whenever I see Darnell out and about in Bellevue, she is dressed in the newest fashion trends – young, feminine and chic. Hair, make-up and accessories all play an important role in completing her final look.

Rose Dennis is a Greater Seattle style icon. Singled out by numerous publications, such as Seattle Magazine, she’s been crowned as Seattle’s Best Dressed, a Signature Style Uptown Girl and as a reigning tastemaker.

Allen Stone with Seattle Rock Orchestra is coming to Neptune Theatre Jan. 14. Photo by Jason Tang.

Bake’s Place

4135 Providence Point Dr. S.E., Issaquah, 425-391-3335

1-28: The Halyards

1-29: Trish, Hans and Phil

More: www.bakesplace.org

Benaroya Hall

200 University Street, Seattle, 206-215-4800

1-26, 28: Hamelin performs Chopin

1-29/31: National Geographic Live! Brian Skerry – Ocean Soul

More: www.seattlesymphony.org

Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley

Sixth Avenue & Lenora Street, Seattle, 206-441-9729

1-11: Grafitti with special guests Dennis Chambers and Gary Grainger

1-12/15: Arturo Sandoval

1-26/29: War

1-31: Kim Wilson’s Blues All Stars

More: www.jazzalley.com

Emerald Queen Casino

5700 Pacific Highway East, Fife, 253-594-7777

1-14: Gabriel Iglesias

More: www.emeraldqueen.com

Kirkland Performance Center

350 Kirkland Avenue, Kirkland, 425-893-9900

1-14: Astitva – A Tale of Two Queens with Srivani Jade & Dr. Ratna Roy

1-30: Foothills Brass – Time Machine

More: www.kpcenter.org

Meydenbauer Center

11100 NE Sixth Street, Bellevue, 425-637-1020

1-28/29: All Things Cheer

More: www.meydenbauer.com

Neptune Theatre

1303 NE 45th Street, Seattle, 206-781-5755

1-14: Allen Stone with Seattle Rock Orchestra

1-17: City and Colour

1-25: Concrete Blonde

1-27: Windowpane

1-28: Martin Sexton

More: www.stgpresents.org/neptune

Paramount Theatre

911 Pine Street, Seattle, 206-467-5510

1-22: David Garrett

1-25: Avicii – House for Hunger Tour

More: www.stgpresents.org/paramount

Showbox SODO

1426 First Avenue, Seattle, 206-628-3151

1-25: Wu-Tang Clan

More: www.showboxonline.com/events.php

Snoqualmie Casino

37500 SE North Bend Way, Snoqualmie, 425-888-1234

1-12/14: Beatlemania Live!

1-26: Tribute to Abba starring Arrival

1-29: The Righteous Brother Bill Medley

More: www.snocasino.com

Triple Door

216 Union Street, Seattle, 206-838-4333

1-14: Apple Jam’s Beatles & Solo Years
Retrospective

1-15: Frank Vignola

1-20: Left Hand Smoke

1-23: Geoffrey Castle and Lucy Wu

1-29: Lisa Koch Birthday Bash!

More: www.tripledoor.com

Tulalip Resort Casino

10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip, 360-716-6000

1-01: Wings N Things – A Tribute to Paul McCartney

More: www.tulalipcasino.com

Want more? Check these out

Chop Suey,  www. chopsuey.com

ColumbiaCity, www.columbiacitytheater.com

Crocodile Cafe,  www.thecrocodile.com

El Corazon,  www. elcorazonseattle.com

Key Arena,  www. keyarena-wa.com

Moore Theatre,  www.stgpresents.org/moore

Nectar Lounge, www.nectarlounge.com

www.stgpresents.org/moore

Neumos,  www.neumos.com

Pantages Theatre, www.pantages-theater.com

The Tractor Tavern, www.tractortavern.com

By Nat Levy

The holidays have come and gone, and it’s time to hunker in for the rest of the winter. Between ski trips and Valentine’s Day there are still a lot of desserts to be had. But who can keep drinking all that coffee with every slice of cake? The new year is a time for resolutions, and this year it’s time to experiment with a new desert drink: port.

Originating in Portugal’s Douro Valley in the northern provinces, port wine is about as sweet as it gets. Typically red wines, port varieties are often high in alcohol content and residual sugars, with a lingering fruity flavor.

Technically, if what you are drinking isn’t from Portugal it’s not true port, much like it’s only champagne if made in the specific region of France. But numerous countries, including the United States have perfected the process. In fact, a number of Washington wineries turn out some delicious port-like wine flavors.

Knipprath Cellars, Spokane

knipprath-cellars.com

This relatively young winery, which began full-time operations in 1999, doesn’t lack for flavor and variety. Knipprath Cellars specializes in port offerings with seven different kinds. Check out their LaV port that features merlot aged with vanilla beans imported from Mexico and Madagascar. Yes, this bottle sounds too good to be true, but it’s all there, and you won’t even break the bank ordering one. A 375 ml bottle goes for $17.99 and a 750 ml liter bottle will cost you $29.99.

Eleven Winery, Bainbridge Island

elevenwinery.com

You don’t have to go all the way out to Eastern Washington to experience this fine winery. Eleven Winery is just a short ferry ride away and features port offerings for both the red and white wine aficionados. The owners speak highly of the Sweet Sarah, named for the owner Matt Albee’s wife Sarah, because as he says, “She is the sweetest of them all.” Eleven has been making port since 2004, and it features tasting rooms in both Bainbridge and Poulsbo.

Paradisos del Sol, Zillah

paradisosdelsol.com

This Yakima Valley winery is well-known for its “Zort” wine, a zinfandel-based port. This wine is a limited edition, and is meant for small groups. In an interview with Washington Magazine, Paradisos owner Paul Vandenberg admits to making ruby port-style wines so his wife has a drink to pair with her dark chocolate. Vandenberg characterizes his port as something to be enjoyed “in front of a fire on a howling winter night while releasing its captive sunshine. Its bramble fruit and spicy aromatics evoke summer in the berry patch with your lover.”