Pay it forward, holiday style

Bellevue Club members donated nearly 200 toys, $1,100 in gift cards and food for local charities in the annual BC Holiday Gift Drive. Hopelink, Toys for Tots and New Beginnings are this year’s chosen charities.

Olympic legend visits Bellevue Club

Pictured is Aaron Peirsol with Bellevue Club Swim Team coach Klaas Schenk.

Olympic legend Aaron Peirsol made the trip to Bellevue this past weekend to visit with Bellevue Club swimmers.
In the packed Olympic Ballroom at the Bellevue Club, Aaron traced his journey from skinny 12-year-old to the best backstroke swimmer in history.
“It wasn’t that long ago that I was sitting exactly where you were,” he said.
Peirsol currently holds the world record for 100- and 200-meter backstroke and has captured a total of seven Olympic medals. He didn’t always want to swim backstroke, though.
“One day at practice, my coach told me I was backstroker. I quickly told him he was crazy. I’m a freestyler,” Peirsol said. “He taught it to me, and it felt pretty natural right off the bat.”
Natural or not, Peirsol emphasized what got him to the Olympics. Swimming for the Irvine Novaquatics in Irvine, Calif., Peirsol says his team worked harder than any team in the country.
“I remember one practice, I had to swim 1,000 meters of butterfly. If I broke stroke, I had to start over—and I was only 12 years old,” he says. “From a young age, I realized I couldn’t control what the other swimmers do in the pool. It was an epiphany to me.”
Peirsol encouraged the young Bellevue Club swimmers not to limit themselves. “It doesn’t matter who you’re racing. Never race for second place,” he said.
After his talk, Aaron answered a wide range of questions and signed autographs. He also stuck around to train with the Bellevue Club Masters team the next morning.
“Having Aaron speak at the Bellevue Club was a real treat for all the swimmers. He’s such a class act,” said Sally Reed, Bellevue Club Athletic Director.

Gold-medal Olympian Club-bound

Mark your calendars for this free event!

Gold-medal Olympic swimmer Aaron Peirsol is visiting the Bellevue Club on Friday, Dec. 10 from 7-9:30 p.m. Hear him speak in the Olympic Ballroom—then stay for photos and an autograph.

Aaron is the world record holder for the 100- and 200-meter backstroke. He has seven Olympic medals after participating in the 2000, 2004 and 2008 games. He's widely considered one of the greatest backstroke swimmers in history.

No RSVP is needed for this event.

Santa does water aerobics

Preparing for a grueling delivery schedule on Christmas eve, Santa Claus from The Bravern shows up to morning water aerobics at the Bellevue Club this past week. In case you were wondering, the beard's totally real.

D'Light-ful

Once again, the Bellevue Botanical Gardens are host to the most spectacular light show in the area. Starting Nov. 27 and running through Jan. 1, bring the entire family to view more than 500,000 lights.

Tickets for the event are $5 per person with children 10 and younger free. It is suggested to buy tickets in advance and avoid long lines at the Botanical Gardens—busy nights can top 10,000 visitors!

This year's display includes a tortoise, Willie the slug and Charlotte in her web from that famous children's book. There is also an "Aquarium in Lights"  and two waterfalls.

For more information, visit the Garden d'Lights website.

Rain, rain go away!

It's raining, it's pouring and it's time to play indoors. The Bellevue Club has been in the business of keeping people dry and active during the rainy, wet months for more than 30 years. With more than 220,000 square feet of facility, there is a bit of something for everyone. Don't put your workout on hold just because of the weather. With yoga classes for mom, a basketball league for dad and swim camps for the kids (OK, so maybe not everyone stays dry!) bring your whole family and play inside with us.

Attention Members: Bring a friend into the Club for a complimentary tour and you receive a free guest pass, compliments of the Membership Sales Department. The tour must be scheduled at 688.3242 or join@bellevueclub.com.

Channel your inner rock star

The Bellevue Club is excited about our latest class offering: Rocker Moms Guitar Class. If you have a guitar sitting around the house gathering dust, or if you can just barely pick out the No. 1 song of your college years, this is the class for you. Oh, and you don't have to be a mom.

Beginners and beginner-plus will learn to play rock, blues, folk, Motown, children's songs, pop and more. And don't worry if you don't have a guitar—low-cost take-home rentals and purchases are available through guitar instructor Jack Dowdell.

The new Rocker Moms Guitar Class is $99 per member and will happen Thursdays 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Classes will start as soon as six interested ladies sign up. To be added, call 688.3102 or e-mail us.

Rock on!

When is the best time of day to exercise?

Whenever you can find the time! While various studies give all kinds of reasons to exercise in the morning, afternoon or evening, the bottom line is that working out needs to happen when you make time, no matter what the clock says. With that in mind, the Bellevue Club offers a variety of evening classes for those of you who choose to sweat after your day job.

Stop by after work and try out Pilates Mat, Indoor Cycling, Cardio Step, Yoga, Crossfit, Fitlife, Circuit Slim Down, Dance Jam and more! For a full list of classes, download our GPX schedule or the Specialty Classes schedule.

Now is the time to end the day right—with a workout at the Bellevue Club.

Under-eye puffiness and dark circles got you down?

The holidays—and the accompanying parties—are just around the corner. If you are worried about how your eyes look, or would just like to look your best, we might have some solutions for you.

Under-eye puffiness is caused by excess fluid left behind from a sluggish lymphatic system. Excess salt or alcohol can contribute to puffiness as well as seasonal allergies. As we head into the holiday season, know that there are several ways to stimulate the lymph and circulate it out from underneath the eye area. These include:
• Morning exercise: Aerobic activity increases circulation, including the lymph system. A morning cycling class at the Bellevue Club or a brisk walk around the block in the cool morning air may work wonders.
• Cucumber: Rest for 10 minutes with cucumber slices over your eyes. Cucumber contains an enzyme that tightens the skin and shrinks tissue.
• Flash eye treatment: The Spa at the Bellevue Club's new treatment will help move lymph from the eye area with specific, gentle massage strokes. Topical collagen plumps fine lines and tightens skin.

Dark circles are often caused by dehydration—make sure you are drinking enough water! Chronic dark circles are the result of thinning eye tissue and leaking blood vessels under the skin. If dark circles are bothering you, try SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex. It helps strengthen blood vessels under eyes with clinical-grade vitamin C. You can find this and many other SkinCeuticals products at The Spa at the Bellevue Club.

Introducing Flash Services at The Spa at the Bellevue Club

Out of time for a full facial but need something to brighten up your face? Try one of the Spa's brand-new Flash Services and in 25 minutes you'll leave looking rested and ready for whatever lies ahead.

Our Eye Brightener treatment is a quick way to eliminate puffiness and dark circles under eyes. It's a fantastic service for allergy sufferers. You'll experience instant firming and smoothing of fine lines when getting this collagen-infused eye treatment. The 25-minute treatment is $35.

For a quick skin brightener, try our Flash Exfoliation treatment. Bellevue Club aestheticians will choose the right professional-strength exfoliant for your skin type, leaving you with tightened pores. This 25-minute treatment is $35.

To book Spa appointments, or for more information, call 688.3114.

New class sessions are coming

Recreation's 6-week session classes start Nov. 1! If you haven't signed up for your favorite classes yet, don't wait for someone else to take the leap. Start the trend and help spread the word! We'll need to cancel classes below our registration minimum, so register today at the Members Only website or by calling 688.3177.

For adults, check out the Salsa, Ballroom and new Hip Hop for Adults classes!

For youth, the opportunities are nearly endless! Check out page 2 of our Youth Activities Newsletter to learn all about our session classes. From Basketball Skills to Hip Hop, Climbing to Ballet, the Bellevue Club is the place to be!

More upcoming events not to be missed:
Halloween Carnival—Friday, Oct. 29.
Kidz Manners—Thursday, Nov. 4.

Here comes Santa Clause ...

Make sure your kids' manners don't escape out the chimney this holiday season! We have a Kidz Manners: Holiday Manners class coming up on Nov. 4. Your children will learn everything they need to know for a happy and polite holiday season in a fast-paced, engaging way.

Ages 4-6 meet from 4-5 p.m. and ages 7-11 meet from 6-7:30 p.m. During each session a light snack will be served.

We have some additional Kidz Manners classes coming up, too! Your child can learn about birthday party etiquette on March 17 or participate in the social fitness class May 12.

Each class is $15 for 4- to 6-year-olds and $20 for 7- to 11-year-olds. To register, call 688.3177 or visit the Members Only website.

Spooky events this month

If you're looking for a little Halloween fun, the Bellevue Club has you covered.

First up? Decorations. Come to the Club on Thursday, Oct. 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and create jack o' lanterns ready to grace your front steps at home. During our Family Pumpkin Carving party, enjoy treats and cider while working, and show off your creation at the end of the night. Prizes will be awarded in various categories. The party is $40 for each adult/child pair and $10 for additional kids.

Next? Costumes! You've probably been hearing about what the little ones are going to wear for weeks, and the time is almost here to put everything together! Join the Bellevue Club community on Friday, Oct. 29 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. for the annual Halloween Carnival. This popular event is not one to miss. There will be a dinner buffet, games, prizes, crafts, face painting and more! The Halloween Carnival is $25 per adult, $15 per child and those 2 and younger attend for free.

To sign up for either event, call 688.3177 or register online.

Fashionable Success

From green to red to purple, the Bellevue Club was a rainbow of fashion, lights and music last Friday night at the 2010 Fashion Show titled Project Green Light. More than 200 people gathered to celebrate all things fashion while fundraising for a good cause.

Produced and directed by Vie Franz and Misha of SMASH, Project Greenlight featured fashion for women and men from Piazza Sempione, Wolford, Mandy Moon Vintage, Jimmy Choo, Built for Man and more. Model's couture hair design was by Alex Dahl and Gerardo Benedetto.

The night was also a benefit for All About Hope, a nonprofit group that provides support, comfort and guidance for people 19-65 diagnosed with terminal cancer. While attendees sipped the signature cocktail featuring Dry Soda, they could purchase raffle tickets for a wide variety of items. In total, more than $2,200 was raised for All About Hope.

Thanks to the sponsoring partners of Project Green Light, Bellevue.com and Pike Brewing, as well as everyone that donated items for the raffle: Dry Soda, Hotel Bellevue, The Spa at the Bellevue Club, Turgeon-Raine Jewellers, Neiman Marcus, Tory Burch, Piazza Sempione, Built for Man, Masha Osoianu Design, Mikele Keiffer Millinery and Seven Salon.

For more photos from the event, visit our Facebook page.

Calling all witches, firemen, princesses and superheroes

As if kids even need an excuse to dress up, we're throwing a Club favorite—Kids' Night Out: Costume Party! Whether they're getting one more wear out of their Halloween costume or wearing their "other favorite," kids will play, craft, dine and have a ball in high fashion while you have the opportunity to kick up your heels and relax! Take advantage of the $25 off dinner at Polaris that so conveniently comes with your child's Kids' Night Out registration (don't forget to make reservations at Polaris, too!) or snuggle up with your laptop and the Club's wifi in the Library. You and your kids will have a much-needed evening of relaxation designed just for you! Kids' Night Out: Costume Party, for ages 3-10, is Friday, Oct. 15 from 6-9 p.m.

Reservations:
Kids' Night Out: 688.3177
Polaris: 637.4608

Relax this Friday: We've got baby-sitting duties covered!

Attending the Club's sold-out Whiskey Dinner? Planning dinner and a fantastic bottle of wine in Cosmos? Don't worry about calling around for a sitter or asking grandma and grandpa to watch the kids for the night—the Bellevue Club has you covered.

This Friday, drop the kids off at Child Care (reservations required) or sign them up to have a fun-filled night at the Western Hoedown Kids' Night Out! Kids 3-10 will enjoy dinner, western-themed crafts and games, and then play in the indoor pool while you sip a Syrah and nosh on the latest creations from our team of chefs.

If your little ones do attend Kids' Night Out and you're planning a dinner in Polaris, make sure you get your certificate good for $25 off dinner for two! Reservations in Polaris and Kids' Night Out are required. If your kids aren't old enough for Kids' Night Out, don't worry—make reservations by Thursday in Polaris and with Child Care to take advantage of our Date Night Special. You'll receive two complimentary hours of child care for one or two kids!

Polaris: 637.4608 • Child Care: 637.4613 • Kids' Night Out: 688.3177

Fall Fashion Show features Piazza Sempione

After a brief hiatus, the Bellevue Club’s hot fashion show is back on Friday, Oct. 1, and it’s absolutely dripping with nouveau style. Benefiting local nonprofit All About Hope, this year’s theme—Project Greenlight—is all about fashion with a conscious.

This year’s show features the impeccable style of Piazza Sempione. Bringing fashion-forward elegance to every textile they touch, the famous Italian designers will be unveiling their latest line in the Bellevue Club’s brand-new Olympic Ballroom. Named after a street in the fashion district of Milan, Piazza Sempione designs garments in the richest tradition of Italian fashion and embodies beauty, elegance and empowerment to women.

Other featured designers and retailers include Francisco Hernandez of Built for Man, Barneys New York, Masha Osoianu Design, Turgeon-Raine Jewellers, Jimmy Choo shoes and more.
Attendees receive a swag bag with items contributed from each designer. Themed cocktails and hors d’oerves start at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person. Limited seats available. Tickets are available here or by calling 688.3194.

Don’t miss this year’s hottest Eastside fashion event!

Create a younger you!

Ever wonder how old you really are? Not the number of years since you were born, but how old your body is. The Bellevue Club's Wellness Specialist Jason Kennedy can assess your "whole person health" with the body age test, as seen on Oprah and CNN.

This 75-minute assessment includes your blood pressure, heart rate, BMI, an interactive flexibility test, an interactive strength test, a lifestyle assessment, a risk assessment and a body composition analysis. And for one day only, Bellevue Club members can get this entire assessment for $75! While the assessment usually costs $175, on Monday, Sept. 20 we're dropping the price.

Appointments are filling so quickly, we've extended the hours the test is available! To make an appointment and be on your way to creating a younger you, call 688.3177 or e-mail an Athletic Services Representative.

Ride like a girl

Join other area women this weekend for the third annual Cycle the WAVE event on Sunday. This non-competitive bike ride benefits the Eastside Domestic Violence Program.

Starting at Tibbetts Valley Park in Issaquah, participants will ride through Issaquah, Bellevue, South King County, Renton and Newcastle on one of three routes: the 25-mile Girly Girl, the 40-mile Middle Sister or the 62-mile metric century Burly Girl.

One-hundred percent of the profits benefit EDVP. Registration is open online through tomorrow, and day-of registration is available but not recommended. More information can be found on the Cycle the WAVE website.

Swim | Bike | Run in Kirkland this weekend

Get out your goggles, bike helmets and running shoes, the Kirkland triathlon is here once again. Since its debut in 2002, this event has been a popular late-summer race for triathletes of all ages.

There are three events for adults to choose from: the Spring Triathlon, the Tri-iT and the Duathlon. There is also a kids' triathlon for the triathletes 6- to 12-years-old.

More information and registration forms are available online, but this race does sell out, so act fast if you want to participate.

Join us in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Join Hotel Bellevue at the ninth-annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk held at Downtown Bellevue Park.

The walk, happening Sunday, Oct. 10, is one of many happening across the country to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society's fight against breast cancer.

There is no registration fee for the event and no minimum amount to raise. If you would like to join the Hotel Bellevue team, contact Heather London via e-mail or at 425.688.3207. For more information, visit the King County walk event page.

Skiing, basketball, music and more!

With the start of the school year comes the start of the Bellevue Club's fall lineup of classes and programs. We have something for the whole family, from your youngest member to your eldest. Whether your daughter wants to dance, your son wants to swim or all your kids want to climb, you'll find the perfect program in the 2010 Youth Activities Brochure.

Recreation and Tennis department session 1 classes start soon, so be sure to make your selections and sign up today!

Celebrate Bellevue neighborhood groups Sept. 11

Come with the family to a free event on Saturday, Sept. 11 at City Hall's front lawn. The community picnic is celebrating neighborhood groups that have organized donation drives or other projects to help those in need during the recession.

With live music and free burrito lunches from Chipotle for the first 500 guests, the entire family will have fun. There will also be a special kids zone and a volunteer resource fair. 

More information can be found on the city of Bellevue's website.

Classic cars and classic wines

Head to Kirkland on Sunday for a day full of beautiful cars—or visit select Woodinville wineries on Saturday for vintage cars and delectable wine.

The Kirkland Concours d'Elegance is happening at Carillion Point on Sept. 12. This family oriented event will have cars, motorcycles and vintage boats out on display. There will also be the esteemed "contest of elegance" with one award judged and presented by sixth- through ninth-graders in the Lake Washington School District. All profits from this event benefit the uncompensated children's care fund at Seattle Children's Hospital and Evergreen Hospital Medical Center.

For the adults in the group, head out on Sept. 11 between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. for wine tastings and vintage car viewings at more than 13 Woodinville-area wineries. Fifty percent of tasting fees and 5 percent of the day's sales will go to the uncompensated care fund at Seattle Children's Hospital and Evergreen Hospital Medical Center. In addition, each participant will receive one coupon good toward $5 off an adult general admission ticket to the Concours the next day.

For a full list of wineries participating and more information about both events, visit the Kirkland Concours website.

Check out the new KCLS library on Saturday!

Lake Hills is getting a new library, and everyone is invited to visit on Saturday, Sept. 11. A ribbon-cutting ceremony  will be followed by tours of the brand-new building, just down the street from the existing library at 15590 Lake Hills Blvd. Join community leaders, library staff and the builders for refreshments and music. Everything starts at 10 a.m.

It's time again for ... SCONES!

The Puyallup Fair is almost here! Starting Sept. 10, the fair is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays) with fun for the entire family.

After you've eaten your fill of scones, corn dogs and elephant ears, head over to Toonzville where your kids can meet some of their favorite characters, see cows, horses, sheep and more at the animal exhibits, see how adventurous you are at the Midway or SillyVille rides, or take in a concert or two at one of the stages.

For a complete guide to the Puyallup Fair, visit their website.

Attention squash and racquetball players!

Did you know we have online squash and racquetball ladders? Ladders are a great way to play against a variety of players and continually challenge your game. Members can receive their invite by e-mailing us and indicating which ladder you'd like to join.

Spend time with your tot at the Club

Escape the rain and stuck-at-home blues this fall at the Bellevue Club! We have a lot to offer you and your toddler. Stop by and burn off some energy while having fun and learning. If a dip in the pool sounds refreshing, try Parent & Child Aquatics classes. If your toddler wants to jump, crawl and explore, try Toddler Open Play or Pre-P.E. For the musical child, Kindermusik is a fun program that includes singing, dancing, instruments and more! And brand-new this year, you and your little artist can create new masterpieces for the refrigerator in Mom & Me Art.

Join a class (or three!) and build new friendships, spend time with your tot and learn a lot! For these and even more classes for kids of all ages, explore the 2010 Youth Activities Newsletter online.

Amp up for fall tennis

The 2010 Fall Tennis Kickoff Event is is almost here! Start the new season off right with instruction, drill and match play and a social.

This year, Matt Anger, University of Washington's men's coach, will be at the Club to teach alongside the Bellevue Club pros. There will also be drill and match play critique, and on Friday night a tennis social that includes food and drinks.

It's all happening Friday, Sept. 10, 6-10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 11, 1-4 p.m.

Register online or call the Athletic Services Desk at 688.3177.

We'll see you on the courts!

Eat local

Our team of chefs at the Bellevue Club work hard to source ingredients from local farmers. It's part of the reason our food is so delicious. If you want to bring some of those tastes to your own kitchen, check out the Bellevue Farmer's Market.

Every Thursday afternoon at the First Presbyterian Church of Bellevue and every Saturday at Washington Square local farmers gather to sell their products directly to you. If you haven't yet visited the farmer's market, take a trip and see what is fresh this week.

For more information about the Bellevue Farmers Market including times and vendors, visit their website.

Introducing Bellevue Club Family Night

Start a new family tradition at the Bellevue Club's Family Nights! We are working hard to create a fun monthly experience for your entire family. And first on the agenda, a movie night—with a twist! Relax as a family after the first week of school during our Float-In Movie Night.

Happening from 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10, the night starts with a pizza party where families can win floating prizes. Then, watch Finding Nemo while in the pool! Bring rafts and life jackets to float around just like Nemo and friends.

Members 12 and older are $10 each, 2 and older are $5 each and those under 2 are free. Please register each person attending at the Members Only site or call the Athletic Services Desk at 688.3177.

Labor Day hours

Labor Day 2010 is Sept. 6. If you are sticking around town and want to use the Bellevue Club that day, please note the following holiday hours:

Athletic Entrance: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.
Athletic Facilities: 6 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

Polaris: Closed
Cosmos: Closed
Splash: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Luna: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Spa: Closed
Child Care: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Recreation: Kids' Camp is available that day!
Aquatics: 8-8:45 a.m. Deep Water Challenge
                9-10 a.m. AquaFit
                8:45-10 a.m. Masters swim
                Noon Masters practice is canceled.
                Swim lessons are canceled.
                Private swim lessons available on a limited basis.
Fitness: 8-9 a.m. Indoor Cycling
              9-10:15 a.m. Vinyasa Yoga
              9:30-10:30 a.m. Flex in the City
              All other fitness classes are canceled.

Clay Throwdown! coming to BAM

The Bellevue Arts Museum has a new show in town, and its part of a band-new program.

Clay Throwdown! is the first show of the BAM Biennial, a juried exhibition that will occur every two years. Starting Aug. 28 and running into January, 30 participating artists show ceramic art created in the Pacific Northwest.

Come see what these artists from Washington, Oregon, Montana and British Columbia are creating from one of the oldest materials known to man. Visit the Bellevue Arts Museum website for more information. BAM Biennial 2010: Clay Throwdown! runs Aug. 28, 2010-Jan. 16, 2011.

Men's Basketball League draft approaching

Are you ready to show your stuff on the basketball court? The Men's Member's Only Fall Basketball League draft is almost here. Whether you've picked up some rust over the summer or are in top shape, this draft league is for you—many members say it is their favorite. Meet members and compete weekly in 8-10 regular season games, followed by playoff games for top seeded teams.

Four on four cross-court games are played mostly on Wednesdays. League rules are available on the Bellevue Club website. Please direct questions to recreation@bellevueclub.com. $125/member.

Register no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 8 here. Volunteer captains will draft teams at 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 13, and the league begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15.

Take it all with your team and sport the championship T-shirt year round!

Bellevue's fashionista

Bellevue Club member Rebecca Klein has loved fashion since she was old enough to dress up her Barbie dolls. Her Barbie runway shows with friends has turned into a life long passion for self-expression through fashion.

Now, Rebecca has a fashion blog concentrating on all-things Bellevue fashion. “As I got older I started searching online for fashion blogs or websites to help me know what’s in and what’s not. I found a lot of great fashion blogs, but never one that was local, so I decided to create my own and help Bellevue know what’s in and what’s not!”

Her two favorite designers? Tori Burch and Diane von Furstenberg. “Their lines are so classy and chic,” she says, adding that she can’t live without her Tori Burch flats. “You can dress them up or dress them down, and for me it’s definitely a must-have.”

Check out Rebecca’s blog at eastsidefashion.weebly.com.

BC Member appearing on Evening Magazine

Bellevue Club member and avid underwater photographer Bruce Yates will appear on KING 5's Evening Magazine this Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. Bruce was interviewed earlier this summer about his underwater photography, which can be found at underwaterreflections.com.

Bruce was also featured in the January 2007 issue of REFLECTIONS Magazine. Currently, all profits from his photography sales go to the International Children's Surgical Foundation.


UPDATE: View Bruce's appearance here. He's also started a new blog if you'd like to follow his underwater adventures.

Take your game to the next level

Junior members about to start grades 6-8 won't want to miss next week's Advanced Basketball Camp. Designed by Bellevue Club coach Tommy Tomsic, 11- to 14-year-olds playing or on track to play select level ball will work hard to improve their game while having fun.

Participants should bring their own basketball. The camp runs Monday-Thursday, Aug. 23-26, and is $50/member. Boys play 3-4 p.m., girls play 4-5 p.m.

Register online or call the Athletic Services Desk at 425.688.3177.

Beat the heat—think snow!

Ski season is approaching, even if Pacific Northwesterners don't yet want to think about it. And as a Bellevue Club member, you receive discounts on ski and snowboarding lessons through Ski Masters!

Ski Masters has been teaching kids, teens and adults to master the slopes for more than 45 years. They offer programs for ages 3 and up, from beginning levels to freeskiing and racing programs. Classes offered this season include:

• Parent & Tot Classes

• Mini Masters Classes

• Explorer, Race and Junior Instructor Training

• Adult Classes

You can even skip the hassles of driving by taking the Gray Line coach services. 

Registration for all Ski Masters programs begins Tuesday, Sept. 7. Please call Ski Masters at 425.392.8260 to sign up. Make sure you mention your Bellevue Club membership to receive your discount.

We'll see you on the slopes.

Outdoor art on display at Bellevue Botanical Garden

Head over to the Bellevue Botanical Garden on Aug. 28 or 29 to view Art In The Garden. This event, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, features many different types of outdoor sculptures throughout the gardens. From glass to metal, whimsical to serious, there will be plenty of art to view. Some artists will also be available to discuss their work.

As an added bonus, pick up a passport, get it stamped by the artists and be eligible for a prize. A percentage of sales from this event will support various garden projects.

Eat some s'mores and sing Kumbaya

Pack up the family, load the car and head out for a great camping weekend at Tolt MacDonald Park in Carnation. This free event features hiking, fishing, stargazing, food and acoustic bluegrass music.

REI will have limited gear available for use, and the event is sponsored by the City of Bellevue. More information can be found online or by calling 425.452.4102.

Car show—will your ride be there?

The first-ever Bellevue Club car show is happening Saturday, Aug. 28 and we still have room for more rare and classic cars! If you have a car or motorcycle that would be a great addition to our show, please let us know.

In addition to all the fantastic vehicles from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. that day, Executive Chef Paul Marks will be serving his mouth-watering gourmet barbecue.

For more information about the Rare and Classic Car Show or to get your car or motorcycle registered for the event, contact Social Director Kaaren Keil at 688.3384 or social@bellevueclub.com.

Live at Lunch concert series

Spice up your lunch hour with a little music. Now through Sept. 9, the Live at Lunch concert series presents music at various outdoor locations around Bellevue on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Upcoming shows include The Halyards at the Symetra Financial Center today; Perry Acker at Bellevue Galleria tomorrow; Pearl Django at Kyline Tower Aug. 10; and Camille Bloom at KeyCenter Aug. 11. Full dates and musician listings can be found here.

Seafair!

It's time once again for the capstone event to the month-long Seafair celebration: The Albert Lee Cup Hydroplane Race, happening Aug. 6-8.

This race features the fastest powerboats in the world. Whether on shore or on a boat in Lake Washington, the hydroplane races are fun for the entire family. Tickets are still available for reserved seating.

If you want to be on the water but don't have access to a boat, try taking an Argosy Cruise during Seafair. Boarding at Kirkland City Dock, you can have lunch or dinner on the boat, or try a sightseeing cruise. Prices start at $30 per person.

Service Stars

General Manager Brian Flaherty, Athletic Director Sally Reed and other departmental managers of the Club recently gathered to thank Bobby for his outstanding service.

Sometimes, you don't even have to ask.

Men's Locker Room Attendant Bobby Lauterjung didn't hesitate when a member, late for a business meeting, had a shoelace break. He simply handed over one of his own.

We always try to anticipate and exceed your expectations while at the Club, but please, if there is anything we can help you with, don't hesitate to ask.

Try one of Gwyneth's favorite products—for free!

During the month of August, book a facial at The Spa at the Bellevue Club and you will receive free samples of SkinCeutical's Hydrating B5 Gel, C+AHA antioxidant and Ultimate UV Defense SPF 30 sunscreen.

The Hydrating B5 Gel is one of actress Gwyneth Paltrow's favorite beauty products to use on dry skin, as mentioned in her latest GOOP newsletter.

To book your appointment, or have any questions about SkinCeuticals products, please call The Spa at 688.3114.

Bringing home the bacon

(L-R) Tony Bacon (captain), Tyler Hay, Chris Scalzo, J.R. Ashe, Jeff Chaney, John Besteman and Morgan Edwards.

As the dust settled on the hard-fought spring Bellevue Club basketball season, Team Bacon is all smiles after coming out on top in the Member Draft League championships.

Second annual Pour on the Plaza approaching

Pour on the Plaza, an annual night of appetizers, live music and wine, is quickly approaching on Saturday, Aug. 14 from 2-5 p.m. Enjoy appetizers from participating restaurants and wine from more than 20 wineries, all while listening to the sounds of Brian Nova.

Your $95 ticket to this event will help support Room to Read, a global organization focused on literacy and gender equality in education.

A list of participating wineries and online registration can be found here.

Take a walk

If you're out and about in downtown Bellevue this summer, you can see more than 30 pieces of art between Bellevue City Hall and Downtown Park. The installations are part of the 2010 Bellwether Art Walk, which runs through Oct. 17. Start at City Hall then head west on Southeast Sixth Street, turning at Bellevue Way to Downtown Park. From wood to metal, moving to static, there are bound to be a few favorites. 

For more information or to download a map, visit the City of Bellevue website.

'Music in the Garden' coming in August

Bellevue Botanical Garden's Pops in the Park event has gotten a makeover—and a new name.

The first Music in the Garden event is happening Aug. 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m. The entire family is invited to this event, with free face painting for children and music by Kelley Johnson and the John Hansen Trio. Admission is free with donations accepted. Feel free to bring a blanket and picnic dinner, but please no alcohol or pets.

For more information please e-mail the garden or call 451.3755.

In-house triathlon expert

The Bellevue Club's own Shannon Paterson is featured in the "Ask the Experts" section of the latest edition of Runner's World magazine. A fierce competitor in national triathlons and marathons, Shannon is also a personal trainer, spin instructor and triathlon coach at Bellevue Club.

She was also featured in the March 2010 issue of REFLECTIONS Magazine.

This weekend: artsfair and 6th Street Fair

Find fun for the entire family right in your backyard this weekend at the 64th annual Bellevue Arts Museum artsfair. Held at Bellevue Square and the Bellevue Arts Museum Friday-Sunday, you'll find plenty of activities.

In addition to the 325 artists that will be selling items at the fair, there will also be kids' activities, dance, jazz and theater performances and glassblowing. The Bellevue Arts Museum will also be free.

The best part? The artsfair is free!

When you've had your fill of the artsfair, head over to the 6th Street Fair, also running Friday-Sunday. More than 140 artists will have their work on display, plus there will be musicians performing jazz, blues and rock.

Congrats, Bellevue! No. 4 in the nation!

Money Magazine recently released its list of the top 100 best places to live in the United States ... and Bellevue was ranked No. 4! With unemployment lower than in the Seattle metro area and a skyline that boasts new skyscrapers, green trees and (on a clear day) mountaintops, Bellevue is a great place to live and work.

Sip and shop this weekend

If you're looking for something to do this weekend, head over to the Kirkland waterfront. Tonight, Saturday and Sunday is the Kirkland Uncorked festival.

Visit the Tasting Garden to try wine, watch grilling demonstrations, listen to live music or visit a wine shop. While the Tasting Garden has an entrance fee (a portion of which benefits the Hope Heart Institute), the Kirkland Uncorked Promenade is free! Here you'll find more than 40 artist booths along with food, a boat showcase and the Kirkland Classic Car Show.

If your four-legged friends attend with you, you can also enter CityDog Magazine's cover dog model contest.

For more information about this event, visit their website.

Annual Cougar Mountain bike climb is coming

Club member Joel Blatt is once again organizing the Cougar Mountain Bike Climb for Cancer. This year's even is happening Aug. 7.

The approximately two-mile, time-trial ride is free! Donations to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance are encouraged.

More information can be found on the climb's website.

The man behind the wheel

Bill Bonney has never lost his grip on the important things in life—like the handle of a water-ski towrope, for instance.

The Bellevue Club water-skiing instructor and Eastside native has been towed behind a rope for the past 46 years, competing in nationals 10 times.

"I grew up skiing on Lake Washington, but what really got me going was when I started competing," he says.

Bill's first competition in his early 20s was a far cry from the glassy slalom courses he now frequents. Instead, it was a grueling pull across the Strait of Juan de Fuca from Port Angeles to Vancouver Island and back. He quickly transferred over to slalom competitions and found his watery niche.

"I love the thrill of skiing through the slalom course and making it where it feels effortless. A lot of times you grunt through it, but sometimes it all just comes together," he says.

Bill has been instructing even longer than he's been competing. As a student at University of Washington in the '70s, he spent one year out of the water and decided to never let that happen again.

"I thought I'd better do something to ski so I started teaching lessons," he says.

Now an American Water Skiing Association-certified instructor with a competition-quality Malibu ski boat, Bill has taught countless kids and adults to water-ski on Lake Sammamish.

His lessons run from beginner to advanced water-skiing or wakeboarding. Bill is an experienced wakeboarder as well, but he draws the line at teaching flips.

"I'll teach spins and jumps, but as soon as they want to start flipping, they'll have to go somewhere else," he says with a chuckle.

As an instructor, Bill's favorite moment is watching a student succeed for the first time. His best advice to first-timers:

"Stay compact and low. Let the boat pull you out. So many people want to get out of the water so bad that they push with their legs, stand up too early and get pulled over the front. Once you're up, you need to keep your knees bent and head up. Or, I like to say, bend your knees and look at the trees." 

Waterskiing and wakeboarding lessons are offered by the Bellevue Club all summer with Bill Bonney on Lake Sammamish. All levels welcome. Ages 10 and up only.

Register online, call 688.3177 or stop by the Athletic Services Desk.

Golfing for good—Mack Strong charity tournament

Bellevue Club member and former Seahawk Mack Strong is hosting the third annual Team-Works Charity Golf Tournament and Auction on Monday, July 12, at the Golf Club at Newcastle.

The event benefits Team-Works Academy, a program designed to educate and empower Native American youth. The tournament starts at 1:30 p.m. and tickets include golf fees, lunch, drinks and a prize bag.

Later in the evening, Mack will be hosting the auction and banquet. Items up for bid include a Mexican beach vacation, luxury Mariners suite, Winemakers Dinner and more.

Visit their website for more information.

Spend your summer by our pool

Now is a fantastic time to join the Bellevue Club, as we have a new member summer promotion available through Aug. 31, 2010. Your entire family will enjoy membership—from swimming to Pilates, we have something for everyone. For more information, call 425.688.3242  or e-mail christyd@bellevueclub.com. Private facility tours are available.

And members, don't forget that you can receive up to $250 in referral credits for each new membership that you refer.

Bellevue Club best-kept secrets No. 2: Birthday parties!

Birthdays are important, and you want your son or daughter's day to be perfect. The Bellevue Club can help not only create a very special day for your child but also take care of all the details—including clean-up! From food and activities to goodie bags and decorations, the Club can help your child have it all on their day for the best value around.

Bellevue Club birthday parties are scheduled Saturdays and Sundays, with four two-hour time slots available: 1-3 p.m., 2-4 p.m., 3-5 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. We have a variety of party activities available for different age groups.

What does your child enjoy?

Pool Parties

• Pool Runner (6 and up)

• Inflatable Obstacle Course (9 and up)

Gymnasium Parties

• Toddler Play (2-4)

• Inflatable Bouncy Slide (5 and up, max 15)

• All-Sports Play (6 and up)

Other Parties

• Art Party* (3 and up)

• Deluxe Art Party* (6 and up)

• Climbing Wall Party (6 and up, max 10)

• Ballet Dance•• (4 and up)

• Hip-Hop Dance** (6 and up)

• Kindermusik** (1-4, max 15)

* Additional cost for supplies.

** Pending instructor availability.

Our parties are the best value around (we've done price comparisons!)

Up to 10 kids for $185. 

Up to 15 kids for $200.

Up to 20 kids for $215.

You can also upgrade your party for an additional cost with a theme package! If your daughter loves butterflies or your son digs pirates, why not add themed dinner and cake plates, cups, napkins, utensils and table covers? Available themes include:

Sports Party

Pirate Party

Surf Party

Hula Girl Party

Pink Princess Party

Butterfly Party

Cake Celebration

Beach Ball Party

Make your theme package deluxe and also get goodie bags! You can also add balloons, an additional instructor or a personal party assistant for an extra fee.

Your child and guests will be having a blast and working up an appetite! While the requisite birthday cake can be brought from home, all other food needs to be catered through the Club. Our full party menu can be found here.

Still have questions about Birthday Parties at the Bellevue Club? Ready to book your child's party? Call us at 425.637.4640 or fill out our online form.

Wellness Fair fitness prize winners

Congratulations to our prize winners! Thank you to everyone who came to our Wellness Fair and participated. The lucky winners are:

T4 Suunto Heart Rate Watch, donated by Precor Fitness 
Winner: Laurie Jacobson 

10 pack of 45-minute personal training sessions
Winner: Tom Van Horn 

6 month GPX family membership 
Winner: Maureen Skall 

Anaerobic Thershold Test 
Winner: Paul Carr  

10 Free Ultimate Fitness Classes
Winner: Maryam Atashzereh

Thank you for being part of a wonderful event.

Member seeks old digital camera donations

Bellevue Club member Jennifer Spatz is heading to India this summer. She will visit the village of Stok in the Ladakh region of the country July 27-Aug. 10 for a cultural exchange and volunteer program. While there, Jennifer hopes to donate cameras to the Siddhartha School Project—the cameras will be used to teach digital storytelling as a way to foster cross-cultural understanding. Jennifer is working with the local organization Bridges to Understanding, whose website has more information about the use of digital storytelling for cross-cultural purposes.

If you have an old digital camera that has 5 or more megapixels (10 is ideal), visit Jennifer's website for information on how to contact her. You can also learn more about the Siddhartha School and the Ladakh region.

Time for barbecue! Let the Bellevue Club do the cooking.

Sunshine, green grass, blue water, a light breeze. Summer is the time for gathering family and friends outside to enjoy the beautiful weather. If you're planning a backyard gathering, SeaFair boating party or taking in a concert at the winery, leave the menu preparation to us! We have the perfect solution whatever the summer occasion with our brand-new barbecue to go menus. Created by our executive chef, Chef Paul's Weekend Barbecue To Go menus will be a hit with everyone on your guest list.

Package 1: Paul's Classic Barbecue

Choose one (4.5 pounds per order)

Sliced barbecue beef brisket

Sliced Asian barbecue or traditional pork loin

Barbecue chicken legs and thighs

Barbecue spare ribs

Garlic- and lemon-marinated boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Lime- and cilantro-skewered shrimp (five shrimp per person)

Includes corn bread muffins with honey butter and your choice of three sides (see below).

The Classic Barbecue package ranges from $135-200 and serves 10-12 people. 

Package 2: Paul's Barbecue Picnic

Choose one (4.5 pounds per order)

Barbecue pulled pork

Barbecue pulled beef

Barbecue pulled chicken

Includes soft French rolls, extra barbecue dipping sauce, slaw and your choice of three sides (see below).

The Barbecue Picnic package is $135 and serves 10-12 people. 

Sides for the Classic Barbecue and Barbecue Picnic packages include:

Green beans with bacon and onions (2 pounds)

Molasses baked beans (2 pounds)

Coleslaw (1.5 pounds)

Macaroni and cheese (2 pounds)

Pasta salad (2 pounds)

Lime-chili corn-on-the-cob (a half cob per person)

Baked potatoes with butter, sour cream and green onions (1 per person)

Baked sweet potatoes with maple butter and pecans (1 per person)

Three bean salad (2 pounds)

Watermelon

Package 3: Taco Bar

Choose one (4.5 pounds per order)

Chipotle-braised pulled chicken

Slow-roasted pulled pork

Cuban style shredded beef

Includes soft flour tortillas, housemade corn chips, shredded lettuc, ranchero sauce, tomatillo salsa, sour cream and shredded cheese. 

Additional sides are available:

Slow-cooked pinto beans ($2/person)

Black beans with lime and cilantro ($2/person)

Pico di gallo ($2/person)

Housemade guacamole ($3/person)

Fajita-style vegetables ($2.25/person)

Roasted corn salsa ($2.25/person)

Watermelon ($1.50/person)

The Taco Bar package is $135 and serves 10-12 people. 

To order your Barbecue To Go package, contact the Bellevue Club Private Events Department at 688.3382.

Take advantage of the Kids' Night Out Polaris special!

Your children will have a blast while you enjoy a fabulous night out with your special someone during our monthly Kids' Night Out events. The next Kids' Night Out is this Friday, June 18. Sign up your 3- to 10-year-old and you receive $25 off dinner for two in Polaris! This exclusive member savings makes the cost of your first child's Kids' Night Out add up to a mere $8!

During Kids' Night Out, your children will enjoy dinner, crafts, games, goodie bags and a swim in the indoor pool. During Kids' Night Out, you and your special someone will enjoy three hours of uninterrupted bliss, enjoying dinner, wine and dessert in Polaris!

Reservations for all family members are required. For the adults, Polaris reservations can be made at 637.4608. Reserve space for your children at Kids' Night Out by calling 688.3177 or clicking here. Upcoming Kids' Night Out dates, themes and details can be found here.

Go ahead, take advantage of this offer and enjoy a night without the kids. 

Bellevue Club best-kept secrets No. 1: Kids' Camp!

Keep your young children engaged and active for up to three hours during the week—and spend the time pampering, checking things off your to-do list or exercising.

Our Kids' Camp program offers three variations for summer weekdays: Kids' Camp Express, Kids' Camp with Open Swim and Kids' Camp with a Swim Lesson. Here's why these programs are so great:

Kids, ages 3-6 (we can even take 2-year-olds if they are fully potty-trained and able to dress themselves independently) start their day at 9:30 a.m. with a half hour of station time where they can choose from activities such as coloring, puzzles, lacing cards, hopscotch, blocks, Duplos and more. After station time, there is a daily activity, which is always changing. Children could do a fun art project, play a group game ... the possibilities are only limited by instructor's imaginations! All kids then get a snack (we provide Goldfish crackers and animal crackers, but can accommodate for allergies with ample notice) and read a story as a group.

At this point, Kids' Camp Express participants are ready to be picked up at 11 a.m. All other campers head to the locker rooms where they change and swim in the indoor pool—on and in front of the long steps. During this time our Kids' Camp instructors are also in the pool with the kids! At the end of open swim time, children not receiving a swim lesson are taken back into the locker room to shower, change and meet their parents at noon. Any campers who receive a swim lesson are ready to be picked up at 12:30 p.m.

A few more reasons why you'll love Kids' Camp:

• You can sign up for one day, one week or an entire month!

• You have options for when your child is picked up: 11 a.m. (Kids' Camp Express); noon (Kids' Camp with Open Swim); or 12:30 p.m. (Kids' Camp with a Swim Lesson)

• The cost for 2 1/2 hours is only $14.50—that breaks down to just $5.80 an hour!

• There is no need to pay a sitter for your time traveling to and from the Club when you can have your child here, having a blast doing fun activities, crafts and swimming.

Kids' Camp breakdown:

Kids' Camp Express (no swimming)

Monday-Friday, 9:30-11 a.m.

$11.50/day

Kids' Camp with Open Swim

Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-noon

$14.50/day

Kids' Camp with a Swim Lesson

Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

$24.50/day

Here is what we need from you:

• We can only take children that are fully potty-trained, can dress themselves and can be without you. We'll even take your 2-year-old if they fit this criteria!

• Sign up at least 24 hours in advance so we can guarantee staffing.

• Cancel 24 hours in advance so we don't have to charge a late cancel fee.

• Please let us know if your child is sick and we won't charge you! We love to share everything—except germs.

If you still aren't convinced that your child will have a great time, try Kids' Camp on us! Call Recreation Director Katie Anderson at 688.3102 and request your complimentary day of Kids' Camp (first time families only, please). 

You will find that one of the Bellevue Club's Kids' Camp options is going to give you the time you need to enjoy the Club or add some much needed checks to your checklist.