Belles of the Sound

The latest in our “Man on the Street” series featuring manly tips from new Seattleite Henry Fitzgerald.

Like any big metropolitan area, Seattle and its surrounding suburbs are clustered with golf courses. Seattle’s courses, however, are some of the best. There are both private and public courses, big courses and small — but they all have one thing in common: 18 holes of golfing greatness.

Before we get to the best courses in the Seattle area, it’s important to note that the weather in Seattle can turn a golf outing into quite the adventure. It’s not uncommon for the “Emerald City” to experience rain for the majority of nine months out of the year, which can potentially put a damper on golf plans.

That is, if you’re unprepared.

Water Hazards

All any hardcore golfer needs is the right gear. Make sure to bring your umbrella along with your rain gear if it’s looking a little wet outside. Perhaps most importantly, do not forget your waterproof shoes. At most golf stores or clubhouses, you will be sure to find a solid pair of waterproof golf shoes. Puma golf shoes are very reliable some of the most comfortable. As an added bonus, many come with extensive waterproof protection.

Now that all your golf apparel needs are covered let’s figure out which Seattle course you will try on. Below are a few options for golfers of all skill levels.

The Courses

Seattle Golf Club is mainly an exclusive course. If you wish to play here you must be a member or the guest of a member. However, if you do get the chance to play on this course, don’t be fooled by its beautiful appearance — it’s also quite challenging. One of Seattle’s more classy courses, the Seattle Golf Club has some of the best views in the city and not just skyscrapers.

West Seattle Golf Club is likely the best bang you will find for your buck. Moderately priced with a great urban feel not found in many other courses, the West Seattle Golf Club is one of the best affordable courses in the greater Seattle area. It lies in the heart of the West Seattle neighborhood and can get a little weather dampened at times. While it is best played during a dry spell, you can certainly bring your rain gear.

Greenlake Golf Course is on the low end for green fees. But, that’s not to say it is a low quality course. The course is definitely worth the cheap price to play. It is, however, smaller than most courses and a little out of the way if you are coming from the heart of the city. If affordability is your aim, this course won’t do you wrong.

Broadmoor Golf Club, like the Seattle Golf Club is a bit ritzy, but equally as beautiful and well maintained. It is located in the heart of Seattle with beautiful greens and fairways. If you would like to play here you do need to be a member, or invited by one. If you can manage that, then the beauty of this pristine course will be yours for 18 holes.

Don’t be afraid to brave the unpredictable Seattle elements and get your golf game going. Rain or shine, these courses are a great way to spend an afternoon.

Most of you probably think Bingo is just for the older crowd, and to that I would say you are completely WRONG! Especially when you’re playing Bingo at the Greenwood Senior Center. Yes, the senior center. On the last Friday of each month January thru October, the Greenwood Senior Center hosts themed bingo/karaoke nights. And, they are a blast!

Karaoke Bingo starts promptly at 7:30pm, so be sure to show up a little early to get a spot, beer and dauber. It costs $10 (plus a $5 on-site WA State gambling fee paid at the door), which gets you one bingo card for each of the 10 rounds. Daubers are available if you don’t have your own. You can also purchase extra cards or buy in to the “special rounds,” such as the Blackout Round, for an extra fee (usually $1-2 per card). In between each of the rounds, attendees are invited to the stage for karaoke. Young and old alike participate in karaoke, and sing-a-longs are not uncommon.

These events are extremely popular and sell out very fast. Tickets go on sale the Monday after the previous event, and you MUST reserve your spots prior to showing up. You can also reserve a table if you are bringing a large group. If you don’t, you probably won’t all be sitting together. Karaoke Bingo is also 21+, which means they have beer (and food) for purchase. The food consists of awesome comfort foods such as tater tots, mini corndogs, soft pretzels, and fresh-baked cookies!

The next Karaoke Bingo event is on Friday, March 30. Come on down and mingle with the cool kids. You never know what new friends you may meet!

Photo Credit: Foolz by Michelle Bates

Based on my previous ramblings, I don’t think it’s any secret that I love burlesque. Land of the Sweets the Nutcracker Burlesque is my favorite holiday tradition; I love Tamara the Trapeze Lady; AND, I never miss the chance to attend Moisture Festival!

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Moisture Festival, it’s an annual comedy/variete show. Each year, performers from around the country (and sometimes world) arrive to perform their particular and often peculiar acts. There are jugglers, balancing acts, stand-up comedians, aerialists, and the late night shows include burlesque. Complete list of performers here. For those of you with kids, many of the shows are kid friendly. No matter what your tastes, this show guarantees to have something to make everyone smile. It’s truly a DON’T MISS activity in Seattle.

Photo Credit: Poppy Daze by John Cornicello

Moisture Festival kicks off next week on Thursday, March 15 and runs through Sunday, April 8. There are four venues across town including the Hale’s Brewery Palladium, the Georgetown Ballroom, the SIFF Cinema (one show only), and this year’s new venue, the Broadway Performance Hall on Capital Hill. Tickets are $10-20, depending on date and time of the show, and are available through Brown Paper Tickets.

Get out there and try something new! You won’t regret it.

Seattle's SolBird

Ok, it’s quite rainy today, which has me in the snuggle-up by the fire with a good drink and good friends mood… Usually for me this includes gathering the troops and finding some good weekend music. AND, that brings me to tell you about a fabulous, up and coming R&B/Motown band in Seattle called SolBird.

Fronted by the fabulous and quirky Tazlyn Fischer Gue, whose soulful voice will melt the cold outside, SolBird’s music is guaranteed to get you up and dancing. They play a fabulous range of music from the funky 60′s to the popular songs of today (plus some of their own music). While these guys have primarily played weddings and other party functions, they are a mainstay at the Owl ‘n Thistle, Paragon and the Cypress Lounge. Look for these guys to continue growing in popularity over the coming years.

SolBird will be playing at Paragon in Queen Anne this Saturday, March 3 at 8pm and there is no cover. Which means, you can catch a sneak peak at this exciting newcomer for FREE! And, who doesn’t like free?

I’ll personally guarantee that you’ll love this show. Tazlyn and I grew up in the same town (although she’s a few years younger than me, but who’s asking?!), and I’ve been a HUGE fan of her music for more years than I can remember. Seattle is super lucky to have this young rockstar. I also did my undergraduate work (and worked in the theatre department) with SolBird’s saxophonist Peter Daniel. Let’s say if you come and don’t love them instantly, find me in the bar and I’ll buy you a drink (tip: my photo is on the “about” page).

If you want to check out more, or see their show calendar, check out the website or the Facebook page.

Here’s a preview of what you’ll get:

SolBird

A Smash Putt obstacle. Photo via SmashPutt.com

Do you enjoy putt-putt, but are maybe looking for a little change of pace? If so, Smash Putt may be for you! Smash Putt is a seasonal mini golf experience unlike anything you’ve seen before. This year’s theme is “2012: The Final Apocalypse,” which sounds like an absolute blast to me. It features unbelieveable obstacles such as the golfball cannon or a new one featuring scratch and sniff technology according to the website.

Once you are done putting, feel free to stick around for cocktails. Smash Putt has an on-site lounge, as well as a viewing room so you can watch others tackle the putting elements. The also have group rooms for rent if you want to through a private Smash Putt event.

You MUST get tickets in advance. Every night sells out. The catch is that they only sell tickets for the upcoming weekend, so you have to be on top of your game. Go to this website to select your tee time and purchase tickets. Note that some times are strictly 21+. Tickets cost $12 or $15 depending on your tee time.

Smash Putt is located at 2764 6th Ave. S in SoDo. It’s open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting this weekend through the end of February!

Don’t miss out on this wacky putting adventure.

Can you believe its almost 2012!! Oh my, the time does fly.

If you are still lacking NYE Party plans, I’ve got an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for you, literally. The popular Underground Tours by Bill Speidel (located in Pioneer Square, for those of you less familiar) is hosting a special version of it’s popular 21 and over tour, the Underworld Tour. According to its website, the Underworld Tour is ”an historic guided tour of sin and flimflam in Seattle’s infamous old red-light district.”

This tour of Seattle’s dark underbelly kicks off at 10:00 p.m. and includes a cocktail served at the end of the tour in Doc Maynard’s old house. ADDITIONALLY, you get a glass of champagne at midnight on the house. It is recommended that you reserve your tickets in advance, which are $25 each. Please note this tour is strictly 21+, and don’t forget that you can continue the fun at any of the fun bars and clubs within walking distance of the tour!

The Belles and I wish you all a happy and safe new year, and look forward to the exciting things to come on this blog in 2012!

Looking for some good, family-friendly Christmas fun this weekend? One of our dear bloggers, Karianne, is participating in the annual street corner caroling competition that takes place downtown Seattle called Figgy Pudding! All proceeds from event donations go to the Pike Market Senior Center & Downtown Foodbank. Figgy Pudding consists of more than 40 caroling groups all over downtown.

When I moved to Seattle from Florida, I knew about the rain this city is known for. It was something that I had to seriously consider before moving here, as I am a bit of a heliophile. I have family in Ohio, so I am used to the snow, but incessant rain is something else altogether. Tanning salons can take care of my body’s craving for Vitamin D, but what about my social life (or lack thereof, as the case may be)? Here are some things on my to-do list for the upcoming winter season.

Underground Tour
Since moving here, I have learned quite a lot about Seattle history. One of the most fascinating things that I have learned is of the underground passages beneath Seattle. Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour offers an interesting time out of the rain and chill, while teaching tourists about the history of Pioneer Square, the one-time heart of the Emerald City that was destroyed in the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, only to be rebuilt during the economic boom of the 1890s (and then partly hidden when retaining walls were added to the area). The tour begins at the restored Doc Maynard’s Public House, and winds along for a few blocks beneath the streets of Seattle, ending at Rogues Gallery, an Underground Tour gift shop. Visit the website for a tour schedule, and head underground!

Museum of History and Industry
I’m a bit of a history buff, which means I enjoy an afternoon spent wandering through a museum and learning about my favorite subject. Seattle’s indoors swimming pools that allow Seattleites the opportunity to swim and socialize during the dreary winter months. As someone who is used to being able to go to the beach at any time of the year, this is definitely something I am interested in making a permanent part of my winter routine. For those of you with kids, there are teen nights and family swim times, and personal lessons are available for the inexperienced swimmer. Pack your suit and head that way!

As you can see, there are many interesting things to do in Seattle when the rains hit. Instead of staying indoors, why not look into all Seattle has to offer, and get to know Seatown in new and unique ways? You may well fall deeper in love with your hometown than ever before.

I don’t know about you, but many of the people I know don’t make plans until the last minute. Especially when it comes to Halloween. Maybe they want to see what are the best events… or they don’t like to commit. Whatever the case, I’ve got you covered! Here are 13 activities this weekend to thrill, scare and entertain you!

1.  Fright Fest at Wild Waves

• “Wild Waves Theme Park morphs into a shadow land of ghosts of ghouls. Giant Creatures inhabit the roller coasters. And scares await you at every turn.”
• Wild Waves Theme Park, Federal Way
• Friday and Saturday from 6-11pm, Sunday 5-9pm
• $24.99 plus tax

2. BUMP! Heaven + Hell

• The self-proclaimed “Northwest’s hottest Halloween party” features heavenly music, decadent performers, the luscious chill lounge, and a $1000 costume contest!
• Showbox at the Market
• Friday 9pm – Saturday 2am
• $40

3. Halloween Spooky Soiree

• A fabulous costume party with an 80s dance floor and a martini lounge benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 5% of the sales and an optional $10 donation will go to cancer research.
• Alibi Room
• Friday 2pm – Saturday 2am
• Suggested $10 donation

4. Halloween Pub Crawl

• Massive costumed pub crawl from Pioneer Square to Belltown! Check the Facebook invite for the schedule or follow @SeaPubCrawl on Twitter.
• Various locations throughout downtown Seattle
• Saturday 12-8pm
• No cover charges, Happy hour deals at many locations

5. Seattle Erotic Art Festival – SEDUCTION

• Seattle Erotic Art Festival’s first ever Halloween Party!
• Fremont Studios
• Saturday 8pm – Sunday 2am
• $42.50

6. Belltown Pub 2^nd Annual Halloween Costume Party

• Dance party complete with Jell-o shots and a chance to win a trip to Vegas! Don’t forget your costume!
• Belltown Pub
• Saturday 9pm – Sunday 2am
• No cover

7. The Ultimate Halloween Bash

• “With over 1000 guests dressed in their most elaborate, creative and sexy guises, your eyes will be titillated, tantalized and entertained!”
• Showbox at the Market
• Saturday 8pm
• $45

8. Masquerade Costume Ball

• The 4^th annual Bonza Bash Halloween Masquerade Costume Ball.
• EMP
• Saturday 8:30pm
• $40

9. KUBE 93 FM Haunted House

• Get your scare on at the old Georgetown Morgue!
• Georgetown Morgue, south of downtown near the First Ave. Bridge
• Friday and Saturday from 6pm-midnight, Sunday from 6-10pm
• $16

10. 106.1 KISS FM House of Terror

• The hair-raising House of Terror! Be afraid!
• 19802 Hwy 99, Lynnwood
• Friday and Saturday from 6pm-midnight, Sunday from 6-10pm
• $16

11. Stalker Farms Haunted Attraction

• Check out the Field of Screams haunted corn maze, hunt for the missing Dr. McFalin and there’s even a nonscary maze for the faint of heart!
• Stalker Farms – 8705 Marsh Rd., Snohomish
• Friday – Sunday from 7-10pm
• $20 for all attractions (less if you only pick one)

12. Corn Maze-Apocalypse

• Huge game of Zombie vs. Survivor in a corn maze!
• Stalker Farms – 8705 Marsh Rd., Snohomish
• Monday 7-10pm
• $10

13. Halloween Double Feature – The Lost Boys & Tremors

• Watch two classics while you enjoy a beer and some food
• Central Cinema
• Friday – Sunday at 7pm (The Lost Boys) and 9:30 (Tremors)
• Each movie costs $6 advance, $8 day of show

Who doesn’t love a Top Pot doughnut? You’re crazy if you don’t.  – That’s all.

Top Pot co-founders and Seattle-based book author, Jess Thompson have co-written a book that will teach anyone, you, how to make your own famously hand-forged Top Pot doughnuts in your own kitchen.

The book is called Hand-Forged Doughnuts and is for sale on Amazon.

The Seattle PI reporter Amy Rolph said it best yesterday in her post:

“Step one: Buy Top Pot Doughnut’s new book about making ‘Hand-Forged Doughnuts.’

Step two: Do whatever the book tells you to do.”

And… watch this awesome video the co-founders put together. At the very least, it will make you want to make a doughnut run on your lunch hour.

Top Pot Doughnuts_Chronicle Books Trailer

- I  notice that I’m carrying on the sweet theme here from Belle Jeanine’s post yesterday… I have seen Top Pot Doughnuts as a wedding cake table before. Just sayin’