Cathi Hatch

Hope Heart Wings of Hope Gala a Success

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 23:17:00 +0000

Ken Hatch, Tom Douglas, Cathi Hatch

On Friday evening, Ken and I attended the Hope Heart Institute Wings of Hope Gala at the Paramount Theatre. Ken was on the Hope Heart Board of Directors many years ago now and it is always fun for him to see all the new people that are involved in supporting the organization that Dr. Lester Sauvage started over 50 years ago.

Sandra & Phil Nudelman, Sue & Jim Bianco

The Tri-Chairs of the Wings of Hope Gala this year were Vanessa Strickland, Keri Kiefer and Dee Reiff. We also had the opportunity to meet Liz Quinn who will take Vanessa's place next year as one of the Tri-Chairs, as Vanessa steps down now after being part of the Gala leadership for the past three years.

Kjell Schei, Ken Hatch

Scott Rabinowitz, Staci Snyder

During the cocktail party before we sat down for dinner, we enjoyed seeing Committee members Kate Harrison, Debbie Constantine, Susan Ewaiko, Courtney Womack and Scott Rabinowitz, who is also the Chair Elect of the Hope Heart Board of Directors. In addition, we saw friends Sue & Jim Biano along with Phil & Sandra Nudelman, Kjell Schei and Tom Douglas. It was also fun to run into Danielle Ahmed, whom I hadn't seen in several years, who is now the Theater General Manager for Tom Douglas Restaurants. And of course, I couldn't resist buying raffle tickets from the cute young women with black angel wings.

The food was delicious and perfectly cooked even though it was an event for over 300 people. Tom Douglas and his team really do outstanding work. The auctioneer was Jim Dever, whom I had not seen previously. In addition to bringing a huge amount of energy to his role, the most memorable thing he did was ride a skate board across the stage in a handstand. Impressive!

The Presidents of the United States of America

Following dinner and the auction, the featured alternative rock band, The Presidents of the United States of America, turned up the volume and people had a fantastic time listening and moving to the music. My ears were ringing from the decibel level, but I look forward to playing the new CD that was part of the swag bag we received when we departed.

Camp Korey at Your Local Market

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 22:20:00 +0000

Ken Hatch, Jason Brown, Cathi Hatch

On Friday evening, Ken and I stopped at ZINOpreneur, Jason Brown's Your Local Market for a festive party to benefit Camp Korey. Ten percent of all sales that evening were paid to Camp Korey, plus there was a silent auction that also benefitted the Camp as well.

Sam Brown interviewing Ken

Ken is relatively new on the Board of Camp Korey, and it was Ken that originally connected Jason with Executive Director, Lane Youngblood and the leadership of Camp Korey. It was quite a party with sampling throughout the store plus wine and beer tastings. Ken was interviewed by one of Jason's sons, Sam Brown, who was collecting video interviews of customers and guests attending the party.

Ross Mickel of Ross Andrew Winery

It was nice to re-connect with Ross Mickel of Ross Andrew Winery who was there pouring his newly released Boushey Vineyard Syrah. We saw several other friends there also including Betty Tong, Brendan O'Farrell, Peter Weiss, Theresa Dowell and Greg Jones, and many other Camp Korey supporters and friends.

Libations on Location (LOL!) at Local 360

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:27:00 +0000

Lucas Schenck, Brian Gawthrop, Cathi Hatch, Ed Brennan, Supida Sanders,
Michael Roupp and Kate Holmes

Last night, a group of ZINO Society members and guests got together at Marcus Charles' Local 360 Cafe and Bar on First Avenue in Seattle for a ZINO Society Libations on Location! networking event. It was my first visit to Local 360 and when I walked in, I realized that it is located in the old Flying Fish restaurant location.

Dr. Ben Conmy, Bernie Dochnahl,
Christine Gilbert

Cathi Hatch with Tim Narby,
:Note Bene Cellars

Karen Ducey, Mary Holmes,
Lucas Schenck

David Palmer, Carla Sanders,
Jeremy Ruby, Ricky Holm

ZINO Society plans several networking events such as this LOL! during the space of a year in addition to the eleven investment meetings and forums that occur every month except August. These events give our investor members, our entrepreneur members (ZINOpreneurs), our sponsor/corporate members and our social members a chance to interact and connect. It is always fun to see old friends and meet new ones at each of these events.

Ken Hatch, Randy Squires

Denny Dochnahl, Eric Blackstone

Local 360 provided delicious hors d'oeuvres including Bocorones and Soft Boiled Egg, Goat Cheese and Tapenade Crostinis, Rosti Potato with Smoked Salmon and Salmon Roe and my personal favorite, Pork Belly Rillette with Pickled Shallot. The featured ZINO Society Wine Professional Member was Tim Narby of :Note Bene Cellars and he poured a selection of four of his wines which included his 2007 Syrah, and three Bordeaux blends; 2007 Abbinare, 2007 Miscella and 2008 Cheval du Ciel Vineyard. Though I liked each of the wines, my two favorites were the Syrah and the Cheval du Ciel Vineyard blend which included a major component of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

It was a great party once again! Thank you Marcus and Tim!

Who Ever Thought of Tempura Deep Fried Bacon?

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 11:33:00 +0000

Diane & Paul incredulous to see Tempura Fried Bacon

This evening Ken and I met Paul and Diane Birkeland for dinner at John Howie Steak at The Bravern in Bellevue. We didn't have to fight the bridge and we can always count on the management team and staff at John Howie Steak to make it a great experience.

Ken also appreciates how easy and convenient it is to be invited to park the car right outside with the valet at no cost since we have Barrier license plate frames. He also loves having everyone at the restaurant know his name and so warmly greet us. Many of our favorites were there this evening including Annie, Lisa and Chris.

Our waiter, Chris with Ken and Cathi

Neither Diane or Paul had ever been to John Howie Steak before, so though everyone is watching their cholesterol and weight, we had to introduce them to the Tempura Deep Fried Kurobuta Bacon with Maple Sambal Ponzu Sauce. Both were incredulous when the order was delivered to our table, but we all did manage to eat it in spite of of our better judgement. Yum!

Paul brought a lovely magnum of Spottswoode Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and we recalled having been there together a few years ago and having a wonderful experience tasting wine in the garden and watching the owner's big dogs devour overripe persimmons every chance they got.

Cherries Jubilee prepared tableside.

Ken & Cathi Hatch, Diane & Paul Birkeland

We were a little more restrained with the rest of our order and shared salads and ordered small steaks or salmon. Paul enjoyed trying to taste the difference between the American Prime beef and the American Wagyu-style beef. But then it was time for dessert and though we all said we didn't really need dessert, we couldn't pass up the Cherries Jubilee prepared tableside. It was delicious with two varieties of cherries; one tart and one sweet. Chris was our server, and as usual did a fantastic job of taking care of us and making us all feel special. We will of course return to John Howie Steak!

Tonight I think I will dream about Tempura Deep Fried Bacon.

Ahhhhhh! Penterra Spa!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:47:00 +0000

Scott Swerland & Spa Director, Angela McClellan

Earlier this week, ZINO Society members and guests attended a delightful and relaxing LOL! (Libations on Location) at Penterra Spa at The Heathman Hotel in Kirkland. Though I had known there was a spa in The Heathman, I had never had the opportunity to see how lovely it is and indulge in some of their services.

Penterra Spa Director, Angela McClellan, welcomed us to the spa and signed each of us up for a mini spa service so we could sample what they offer. I came out with my eyebrows tinted and framing my face better, while others indulged in mini manicures and mini massages. I was also very impressed with the warmth, competency and professionalism of the Penterra Spa staff.

Christine Gilbert, Darlin Gray

ZINO Society Events Director, Christine Gilbert, was there in her purple flowered robe to oversee the details of the event and ensure that everyone had a wonderful time. Trellis Restaurant provided delicious "spa appetizers" and a selection of wines so that we could keep up our energy between spa services and talking with one another. There is also a low lighting relaxing room where one can sit on a comfortable chaise, snuggle under a cozy blanket and sip tea or lemon water while waiting for a spa service. Several seemed to enjoy that room as well, but I didn't dare sit there in fear that I would nod off during the party.

Chic Hendricks books his
next spa appointment.

Irene Retel, Michelle Kauffman,
Jack Burns

We welcomed a few new members to their first ZINO Society networking event including Scott Swerland, Chic Hendricks and Mike Stewart. ZINO Society marketing intern, Liza Cantu brought her mom and a friend who won one of the special spa package door prizes.

Nancy Harnasch, Lisa Mikesell

Llewellyn Preece, Mike Stewart

Bill Chao, Scott Swerland, Brad Vancour,
Jack Burns, Kelly Leonard

Maureen O'Hara, Kate DesRosier, Bob O'Hara, Carol Taylor

Some of the other event attendees included Brad Vancour, Nancy Harnasch, Jack Burns, David Berthon, Irene Retel, Lisa Mikesell, Maureen & Bob O'Hara, Mary Holmes, Bill Chao, Kate DesRosier, Darlin Gray, Llewellyn Preece, Carol Taylor, Kelly Leonard, Michelle Kaufman, Carol Taylor and Eden Elliott Waggoner.

I left with some new face cream (which I am counting on to make me look much younger!) and look forward to booking another appointment with the 20% discount that each of us received at the party. Ahhhhhhhhh!

Fantastic Don Quixote!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:35:00 +0000

Carole Ellison, Bob Cremin

Kaori Nakamura as Kitri

What a tour de force was the Pacific Northwest Ballet opening night performance of Don Quixote tonight at McCaw Hall! When Ken and I arrived for the pre-performance cocktail party and dinner this evening, the anticipation in the air was palpable. PNB had arranged to rent the ballet production including choreography, costumes and sets from the Dutch National Ballet in Amsterdam and this ranks as one of the largest productions PNB has ever performed. Don't miss this production!

At the opening night dinner, PNB Artistic Director, Peter Boal, introduced many of the personnel that the Dutch National Ballet had sent to help PNB produce these performances including the choreographer, Alexei Ratmansky, scenic and costume designer, Jerome Kaplan, and James Ingalls, lighting designer, four ballet masters to help stage the ballet on the PNB dancers, and a wigmaster. Peter also recognized dancer, Kiyon Gaines, who had joined us for dinner and was recently promoted to the level of PNB Soloist.

Richard & Winnie Baxter, Lynn & Frank Lindsay

Retired PNB Dancers, Jordan Pacitti & Ariana Lallone

We saw and talked with scores of friends at the ballet including Winnie & Richard Baxter, Eliza Flug, Barbara Cahill, Linda & Toby Warson, Peggy & Michael Swistak, Aya Hamilton, Peter Horvitz, Pam & Dan Baty, Carole Ellison, Bob Cremin, Elisabeth Bodal, Barbara Ries, Margaret Del'Osso, April & Steve Kieburtz, David Brown & Elaine Bauer, Julie Skerritt, Gail & Tom James, Diane & Paul Birkeland, Rian McLeod, Jane & David Davis, Betty Bottler, and Janet Ketcham to name a few.

Peter Boal providing "dance advice" to Richard Baxter

Since Dr. Richard Baxter is preparing to compete in the upcoming Seattle Dances contest benefiting Plymouth Housing Group, at dinner he took the opportunity to seek a little dance advice from PNB Artistic Director, Peter Boal, hoping to increase his chances of winning a mirror ball trophy on March 3rd when he dances the tango with his professional dance partner. Good luck Richard!

The dancing this evening was spellbinding and PNB Principal Dancers Carla Körbes and Karel Cruz were magical in the roles of lovers, Kitri and Basilico. Actor Tom Skerritt was funny and endearing in the title role of Don Quixote. And Bathurel Bold and Maria Chapman were also riveting as the matador Espada and his lover, Mercedes.

I think I will dream tonight about extraordinary dancers leaping and spinning, brilliantly hued matador capes swirling and coquettish fans flicking open and maybe a few windmills too.

BYOW (Wine) for Board of Governors Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:31:00 +0000

Tom Goodenow, Jeff Rousch, Steve Huebner

Ken and I attended the Harbor Club Board of Governors Annual Presidents Dinner this week at the Seattle Harbor Club. As usual, Manager Otto Sperka warmly greeted us upon arrival. This was meant to be an opportunity for the board members and their spouses to get to know one another a little better. It was a beautiful, clear evening and the birds eye view of the water and mountains from the Club was spectacular.

We were all pleased to see that Sandi Goodenow, wife of Harbor Club General Manager, Tom Goodenow was there looking healthy and glowing after recently overcoming some difficult health issues. Board president Jeff Roush was there along with past president Steve Huebner and his wife Liz. We sat at a long table and were seated next to board members Patti Payne and Rand Sealey and across from board member Cliff Tingley and his wife, Victoria Cobos and board member Gail Ryder.

Ken Hatch, Patti Payne

Ken and Cliff enjoyed sharing stories of some of their fascinating experiences with Teamster Union representatives of the past and we also enjoyed hearing some of Victoria's colorful stories about her quasi-children (children in whose lives she is involved though she isn't their mother).

Since Tom had asked each couple to bring a bottle of wine to share with dinner, we brought a bottle of 2005 Abeja Merlot. Happily, Steve Huebner shared a bottle of Leonetti Reserve Red Wine from his cellar with our end of the table and Rand shared some of his Corliss Cabernet Sauvignon with us as well.

The menu choices were inspired and beautifully produced by Executive Chef, David Thierry and his staff. You can see the full menu below at the end of this post. Though I loved every course, my favorite course was the Stuffed Fingerling Potato with Caviar and Creme Fraiche. Delicious!

First Course

Stuffed Fingerling Potato, Caviar and Creme Fraiche

Second Course

Carmelized Pear on Brioche Crouton, Baby Greens, Foie Gras Vinaigrette

Third Course

Spiced Cider Sorbet

Entree

Pancetta Wrapped Tenderloin Filet, Potato Latke with Rosemary,

Oregon Blue Cheese and Walnut Butter

Dessert

Warm Bittersweet Chocolate Lava Cake, Frangelico Creme Anglaise

Grand Opening of Yogurtland in Bellevue - Yum!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:42:00 +0000

Proud Yogurtland Owners, Lauren & Gregg Bennett

Tonight at the invitation of ZINO Society members and the proud owners of their new Yogurtland store, Lauren & Gregg Bennett, I went to the Yogurtland grand opening in Bellevue. This is Lauren's and Gregg's third store. They already have others in the University District and in Wallingford and they are planning to open two additional stores in Redmond and Kent within the next two months.

The self-serve frozen yogurt concept is a Southern California franchise. There are around 150 Yogurtland stores throughout the country with the heaviest concentration in California and Florida.

The Bellevue Yogurtland store was packed with guests celebrating the opening and trying out all the delicious yogurt and topping varieties. I personally tried the Double Chocolate Cookies & Cream and French Vanilla yogurt with cookie dough and Butterfinger toppings. Yum!!

Gregg Bennett & John Otter

Cathi Hatch & Gregg Bennett

Some of the friends and celebrants at the grand opening included Bellevue Mayor Conrad Lee, Fredda & Steven Goldfarb, Doug Ebstyne, Nancy Heen, Peter Chalmers, Dino Rossi, John Otter, Toni Hoffman and a group of Bellevue Chamber of Commerce supporters including Kim Fredericks.

There was an official ribbon cutting, though we were a bit worried that Lauren was considering cutting off Gregg's head with the giant scissors! Congratulations, Lauren and Gregg!

Leaving the Snow for a Palm Desert Get-Away

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:09:00 +0000

Entrance to Overlake Golf & Country Club, Medina

Seattle lay under at least 6 inches of snow and no one had dared to drive in three days when I got out our old 4-wheel drive Ford Explorer to go pick up my golf clubs at Overlake Golf & Country Club in Medina. Because I was so excited to play golf during my upcoming weekend in Palm Desert, I was willing to risk life to get my golf clubs. What a desolate, cold and snowy place, but Pat in the Pro Shop was right there to bring out my golf clubs since he was there working on the club remodel.

Patty & Jimmy Barrier with Leisa Austin, Imago Galleries

On Friday afternoon, I boarded Barrier Air along with Patty Barrier, Lance Mueller and Carol Wright for our flight to Palm Springs looking forward to warm weather activities for the weekend. On Saturday, we awakened to a beautiful day and with my darling friend, Patty Barrier, took a meandering walk through the The Reserve before heading to the golf course to play 18 holes. It started a little windy and progressively got stronger so that by the 16th hole, our visors were flying down the fairway and we could hardly keep our footing. It did wonders for our drives when the wind was going in the right direction, however. Later we found out that the winds were only 1 mile per hour less than hurricane force winds and that there was wind damage everywhere throughout the Coachella Valley!

My favorite in the
Oben Abright collection.

On Saturday evening we attending the opening reception for glass artist Oben Abright at the Imago Galleries in Palm Desert owned by Leisa & David Austin. His art work was fascinating and disturbing all at the same time. By the time we arrived, all the display pieces were sold with the exception of two pieces. My favorite had been sold and was a quarter-scale standing man with a gold coat. There were many other artists represented at the gallery including our favorites from the Pacific Northwest; Dale Chihuly, Billy Morris, Dennis Evans and Ginny Ruffner, as well as other favorites Lino Tagliapietra, Tom Wesselman and many other fascinating artists represented as well. I went to the party along with Patty & Jimmy Barrier and it was nice to see friends there including Esther & Walter Schoenfeld, Jan & Don Kline and Sandra & Gary Schnitzer.

Cathi Hatch and Patty Barrier with Haystack behind us.

On Sunday morning, Patty and I enjoyed a hike on the Art Smith Trail. It was a beautiful morning and and though we had a medical emergency (broken fingernail), our hike was a treat. It was a beautiful 2-1/2 mile trail with switchbacks up the side of the canyon led by The Reserve Golf Pro and Fitness Center Director, Lisa Miller along with her assistant, Kristina Zenone. Following the hike, we did find time to stop for a latte and then to visit the street fair to find a couple of bargains.

And then on Sunday evening, Patty & Jimmy and I went to Carol Wright's home for a cocktail party and it was great to see many Seattle friends including Becky Benaroya, Mark Levine, Vicki & Ed Rauscher, Gladys Rubenstein, Shelley & Doug Swerland, Tina & Stuart Mandel, Esther & Walter Schoenfeld, Jerry Olson and his partner, Raymond and several others. Though Carol claimed that she hasn't cooked since she was 20 years old, the hors d'oeuvres were fantastic and she was completely organized and it was a great party.

On Monday morning, Patty and I were off to a great Pilates mat class followed by the Liberty Lunch which I detailed in my previous post. And then sadly, my glorious respite came to an end, though my trip home was delightful on luxurious Barrier Air with Jimmy Barrier and Mick Schreck.

It was truly a delightful weekend which felt like a real get-away and the really good news was that the snow was melted by the time I got home on Monday.

Liberty Lunch in Palm Desert

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:47:00 +0000

Lindsey Sangalli & Patty Barrier, coveting Lindsey's crown.

Today my good friend, Patty Barrier and I went to a ladies’ luncheon at Augusta Restaurant in Palm Desert hosted by owner, Denise Roberge. This was a luncheon to learn more about Liberty Lunch, a women’s group established in Nebraska specifically to create a network of well-informed, motivated women who are engaged in promoting patriotism and conservative ideals and supporting our military and their families. They also plan a monthly educational forum providing speakers on a broad spectrum of current issues facing America today. Their focus is on policy and issues. They are non-partisan and not aligned with any group. Therefore, they don't endorse candidates or fundraise at their meetings.

Founders Kathleen Allan, Liz Varvel, Debra Evnen

Of the approximately 25 women attending, In addition to Patty, there were several friends from The Reserve in attendance including Gail Cottle, Kathleen Allan, Amy Adams, Cathryn Palmieri, Anne Marie Cullen and Lucy Danis. Gail organized the group get-together in order to hear more from LIberty Lunch Founders from Lincoln, Nebraska, Kathleen Allan, Liz Varvel and Debra Evnen. Denise greeted and welcomed us and shared her passion about what she believes needs to happen over the next nine months before the presidential election. The founders then took turns talking about how they have brought together a group of 200 conservative women in Lincoln to focus on educating and expanding their knowledge about the primary issues facing our country today.

Gail Cottle organizing Palm Desert group

Associated as part of the Liberty Lunch group is the Liberty Lunch Book Club and we received a reading list of the 12 books they have read on a monthly basis over the past year. Liz Varvel, who serves as the lead on the book club, shared that three of the favorites of the past year included The Roots of Obama's Rage by Dinesh D'Souza, The Shadow Party by David Horowitz and the book we received as a gift at the luncheon courtesy of Denise, The New Road to Serfdom by Daniel Hannan.

One of Patty’s desert friends whom she had invited to join her at the luncheon was Lindsey Sangalli, who won her local pageant and is the reigning “Mrs.Texas Conservative Woman of 2012”, who arrived wearing her tiara and a banner announcing her title. Patty couldn’t wait to try on her tiara!

Denise Roberge, our luncheon host

There was general agreement by the women attending the luncheon that they want to develop a similar women's group for Palm Desert under the name of Liberty Lunch and for their next luncheon to plan a speaker who can discuss the healthcare bill and educate the group on the pros and cons of "Obama Care".

In trying to research a little more about aboiut the Liberty Lunch group, I found a link to a group in Salt Lake City (http://www.libertylunch.org/ ), also called Liberty Lunch, which seems to share many of the same ideas and goals of the Lincoln group. It looks like this kind of thinking may have a ground swell of support from different corners of the nation.

Glimmers of Hope at enterpriseSeattle 40th Economic Forecast Conference

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:16:00 +0000

enterpriseSeattle 40th Annual Economic Forecast Conference

On Thursday, on behalf of ZINO Society, Mary Holmes and I attended the 40th Annual Economic Forecast Conference presented by enterpriseSeattle as guests of The Regence Group Vice President and fellow enterpriseSeattle Board member, Cary Badger. The day was kicked off by Jeff Marcell, President and CEO of enterpriseSeattle, with greetings also from Board member, David Allen of McKinstry, who is leading the new enterpriseSeattle Campaign.

An economic forecast for 2012 was provided by a panel of three economists; Dick Conway of Puget Sound Economic Forecaster, Michael Dueker of Russell Investments and Ken Goldstein of The Conference Board. Though Ken Goldstein was more pessimistic than the other two economists, they all shared glimmers of hope and projected small growth in 2012.

Next was an Aerospace Student Showcase and remarks by Dow Constantine, King County Executive and then a panel discussion on "The Future of Aerospace in the Region" moderated by Glenn Farley of KING 5 TV.

Governor Chris Gregoire

The conference concluded with a Keynote lunch featuring two awards. First, the Puget Sound Business Journal Executive of the Year Award was presented to Jeff Raikes of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the enterpriseSeattle Economic Development Champion Award was presented to J. Tayloe Washburn of the Washington Aerospace Partnership & Foster Pepper PLLC.

Keynote remarks were provided by both Governor Chris Gregoire and Bill Ayer, Chairman and CEO of Alaska Airlines.

Governor Gregoire urged the attendees to put pressure on their legislators to get the budget passed ASAP and pass her 1/2 cent sales tax increase proposal to help decrease the deficit and then focus on education and transportation issues.

Bill Ayer

Bill Ayer shared four principles to live by of which I can remember only three which are definitely worth remembering:
* Don't buy things you can't afford.
* Don't borrow what you can't pay back.
* Don't do deals that you don't understand.

Then he also shared the eight guidelines to run a successful company that he uses at Alaska Airlines. These are great guidelines that I can use at ZINO Society!

* Be customer focused.
* Get the right people on the team and be both realistic and optimistic.
* Instill a sense of urgency to do the right thing.
* Recognize that what you measure gets done.
* Focus on what you can control.
* Work on only one or two big ideas at a time.
* Develop strategic partnerships to increase relevance.
* Be adaptable and ready to capitalize on opportunities that arise.

Women of Valor Brunch

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 02:39:00 +0000

Today, I went to Senator Maria Cantwell's home in Edmonds for brunch. She invited the women who have received the Women of Valor awards over the past few years to join her. Maria has been making these awards to selected women in various business and non-profit leadership positions since 2006 to help recognize the diverse roles of women leaders in our society. Maria's mom, Rose and Maria's good friend and head of her Finance Committee, Karen Gamoran, who was actually the creator of the Women of Valor awards concept, were also at the brunch to welcome the awardees.

Maria asked each woman to take a few minutes to introduce herself to the group and explain why she had been selected as a Woman of Valor. The women were fascinating and talented and could have received their awards for multiple reasons. A few of the women at the brunch today included Nancy Nordhoff for her founding of Hedgebrook for aspiring women writers, Megan Karch for her work as CEO of FareStart, Janis Avery for her passionate efforts on behalf of foster children in our state and her work as Executive Director of Treehouse, Jerilyn Brusseau for her founding of PeaceTrees Vietnam to renew relationships with the Vietnamese people and remove land mines and unexploded ordinance shells, Patrice Auld for her work on behalf of conservation efforts with Nature's Conservancy, Assunta Ng, founder and publisher of the NW Asian Weekly and the Seattle Chinese Post, Alma Plancich, who organizes the annual 4th of July swearing-in ceremony for new American citizens at the Seattle Center each year and a dozen or so more additional women awardees who are all passionate about what they are doing. Eric LeVine of Cellartracker was there on behalf of his wife who was also an awardee, who was in Washington D.C. for a business meeting.

As each woman told her story, you could feel the energy and determination and passion that each one brings to fulfilling the work that she has chosen. I was proud to share my story of what ZINO Society is accomplishing as a community of angel investors, entrepreneurs and connectors working together to propel emerging and start-up businesses to success through active angel investing and mentoring.

It was an inspiring morning being surrounded by so many extraordinary women. I look forward to meeting the next group that will receive the Women of Valor awards on February 22nd at the annual luncheon.

Bubbles, Bites & Good Cheer to Toast the Coming Year

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 22:22:00 +0000

Sue Bianco and Cathi Hatch

It was a crisp and clear night last evening as we arrived at the Bianco's home for their festive New Year's Eve party. We were greeted with an icy cold "Bianco-tini" which Jim had created that included Ultra Jewel of Russia vodka, Grand Marnier, Meyer lemon juice and cranberry juice which was steeped for 5 minutes on ice in a cocktail shaker along with 2 cloves and half a cinnamon stick The drink was then vigourously shaken, strained and served in a large martini glass and was a rosy pink color. Delicious!

Jim Bianco and John Bauer

Sue & Jim Bianco are the most gracious hosts and each looked fantastic; Jim in an elegant dark blue evening jacket and Sue in a sleek and sexy silver Armani sheath over ankle-length leggings and towering sandals. Sue was also wearing her gorgeous new tourmaline, diamond, sapphire and citrine earrings that had been Jim's Christmas gift to her. The spectacular architectural dangling earrings are only two of a kind designed by Marina, the granddaughter of the founder of Bulgari Jewelry, who was the jewelry designer for Bulgari from the 1950's through the 1980's. She introduced the multicolored semi-precious stone necklaces that became so popular in the 50's. Since Bulgari was recently sold to LVMH, she is not allowed to use the Bulgari name anymore so her designs are now under the label, Marina B.

Giulio, Sue and Gianni Bianco

Mike Kunath arranged for spiritual advisor Dawn Stansfield, to join the party and provide readings for several of the people including Ken, Sue Bianco, Jeff Roe, Debbie Peppa and Maryel Duzan. Some of the other guests attending the party were Bianco home architect, Mark Elster and his wife Nancy Ellen, CTI board member John Bauer, the Bianco sons Gianni and Giulio, CTI Sr. VP and Director of Corporate Communications Dan Eramian and his wife, Louise. Louise wore a stunning white jacket of her own design that included thousands of tufts of silver thread.

Ken Hatch, Jeff Roe,
Mike Kunath

Dawn Stansfield and Sue Bianco

Jason Wilson's Crush was the caterer for the evening and passed small bites that were tiny works of art. Each could be eaten in only one bite. My personal favorite was the 48 Hour Braised Beef Short Ribs from Painted Hills Farms with Horseradish Potato Cake and Caramelized Onion. See complete list of the featured hors d'oeuvres at the end of this blog posting. In addition to the Bianco-tinis, the featured bubbles and wine included Bollinger Brut Cuvee, Rombauer Chardonnay and Darioush Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sue & Jim Bianco

Cathi & Ken Hatch, Sue Bianco

Ken Hatch, Debbie Peppa,
Mike Kunath, Jeff Roe

Hors d'Oeuvres Menu

Truffled Pecorino Filled Gougeres

Ahi Tuna Crudo with Pomegranate

Vadouvan Curried Spot Prawns with Harissa

Black Trumpet Mushroom and Chevre Tartines

Maine Lobster Salad with Hearts of Palm and Blood Orange

Sue Bianco and Louise Eramian

Dan Eramian, Sue & Jim Bianco, John Bauer

48 Hour Braised Beef Short Ribs from Painted Hills Farms

Horseradish Potato Cake, Caramelized Onion

Vahlrona Chocolate Bouchons

Assorted Caramels, Truffles and Chocolates

Meyer Lemon Meringue Tartlets

Casual Post-Christmas Dinner Party

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 22:57:00 +0000

Tim Premselaar, Peggy Swistak, Gary Neumann, Shelley Hovind

We have attended so many beautiful parties hosted by friends during this festive holiday season, but earlier this week, it was fun to host a very casual post-Christmas dinner party for just a few friends. The Christmas decorations were all still up and the house looked beautiful with the extra lights and candles that Christmas brings.

As usual, setting the table is my favorite part of entertaining and I had the most fun setting the table with all the red and green table accoutrements. But then, since people generally expect food when they are invited for dinner, I had to also turn my mind to a suitable, casual menu. I decided to try to recreate a delicious pasta entree that I had eaten recently at The Rainier Club, but with all the Rainier Club staff being off this week, I had to make it up as I went since I couldn't get the actual recipe.

Susan Neumann with ZiZi and
Michael Swistak

Our version of the pasta dish included a bed of fresh spinach sauteed with garlic and lemon in olive oil topped with al dente penne pasta and then layered with caramelized onion, bacon, roasted fennel and asparagus followed by seasoned fresh bread crumbs, grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and finally a soft poached egg on top. The egg helped provide the "sauce" (similar to a Carbonara sauce) when people cut into the egg. Thank heavens I had Judy Hebert of Hey Jude Catering helping me in the kitchen, since poaching eggs at the last minute turned out to be quite challenging! Plus, Judy can generally help keep me settled down when I am entertaining because she is so calm and efficient. Whew!

But, back to the beginning of the evening. When the guests arrived, they were offered a selection of our featured Manhattans courtesy of Susan & Gary Neumann or the special holiday drink I mixed from the recipe from my daughter, Katie Laramore, called Ginger Cranberry Cosmos. Tim Premselaar brought a selection of his single malt Scotch collection for sipping as well, including a Talisker and a Bunnahabhain and a third one that I cannot remember.

Michael Swistak contemplating his winnings
flanked by Peggy Swistak and Sandi Premselaar

For hors d'oeuvres before dinner, we served Dungeness crabmeat tossed in horseradish mustard sauce on Belgian endive tips, tomato, garlic and basil bruschetta with melted fresh mozzarella, and fresh vegetables with a lemon-anchovy-caper dipping sauce. Herb parmesan bread and an arugula salad with pomegranetes and pistachio nuts rounded out the menu with the pasta. For dessert, I served Sticky Toffee Pudding with Caramel Sauce, recipe courtesy of friend, Annette Parks.

Sandi Premselaar, Nancy Strom, Susan Neumann,
Peggy Swistak, Cathi Hatch

Van Strom, Susan & Gary Neumann play the game

Susan and Michael split their winnings

ZiZi Zinfandel Z-Dog managed to find her way to the dinner table by successfully begging to be included on laps of the guests.

Following dinner, Shelley & David Hovind excused themselves since David is still recovering from knee replacement surgery while the rest of us adjourned into the Day Room to play a spirited dice game of "Left-Right-Center".

There we also consumed a 1984 vintage port, fudge and Christmas cookies to keep up our strength for the rigors of the game. Michael Swistak was the big winner of the first game, but Susan Neumann, who loves to play games and is very competitive, quickly talked him into sharing his winnings with each of us so we could play again. Following another raucous game with an appropriate sound track handled by Van Strom, Susan actually won, but after helpful urging from the rest of the group, she agreed to split her winnings with Michael.

We ended the evening by attempting to take a photo of the women, which turned out to be rather challenging since everyone wanted to hide behind someone else.

As the guests departed, I knew that the holidays really are over now and it is time to get ready to begin a new year. The Christmas decorations came down the following day so now the fun of the 2011 holiday season is all just a happy memory.

Christmas Day with Family Progressive Visits

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:59:00 +0000

Spencer, Michael & Jackson Hatch with Ken

Ken and I awakened to a lazy morning where we really didn't have to be anywhere until afternoon. What a treat to sleep in and then leisurely open gifts under the tree (most of which were for ZiZi Zinfandel Z-Dog) and have a relaxed breakfast.

Andrew Hatch

We were invited to the home of Katie & Kevin Laramore, my daughter and son-in-law, for Christmas dinner later that afternoon, but we had a few gifts to deliver on the way. Though we had celebrated with the Hatch Family two nights earlier at our home, we had somehow forgotten to give them some of the gifts that were waiting under our tree for them. It may have been the high energy and excitement with all the young children opening their gifts that we totally forgot everyone else!

Once we were dressed and ambulatory, our first stop was the home of Ken's eldest son, Sean Hatch along with his partner, Troy Clark. It was fun to see their Christmas decorations which included a huge blow up "Shrek" outside their house (Troy has been compared to Shrek numerous times and is proud of the comparison!) along with beautiful glass balls and whimsical lights. Inside, it was a treat to see their huge collections of snow globes and nutcrackers and their perfectly decorated tree which was still replete with gifts underneath since they were opening gifts later that afternoon.

Katie reads to Bode, ZiZi and Kevin

Our next stop was at Ken's third son's home where we saw Michael & Alicia Hatch along with their three sons, Jackson, Spencer and Andrew. We dropped off Andrew's giant gift which we had forgotten to give them earlier and had a chance to see all the Transformers, Playmobil and Lego toys that Santa had brought the bigger boys. It was quite a haul and Jackson was especially enjoying trying to build each one.

Ken helps ZiZi check out Bode

From there we headed to Bonney Lake to Katie and Kevin's home, where they had prepared dinner for us and for Kevin's parents, Jill & Rick Laramore, to join them. Their house was festive with lots of exterior lights and two Christmas trees inside. We were greeted with Ginger Cranberry Cosmos (yum!), parmesan breadsticks, rosemary cashews and broiled bacon wrapped prawns. For dinner, Katie served baked ham with a savory mustard orange glaze, broccolini with pecan butter and my personal favorite, creamy baked leeks with bacon and breakcrumbs. For dessert, she made chocolate souffles which tasted absolutely delicious! I was very impressed!

Kevin models his new snuggie

We brought the white elephant gifts from Christmas Eve that they had missed taking with them and Kevin looked quite fetching in his new "snuggie". I think Katie was thrilled that she wasn't the recipient of the snuggie and received a sound machine instead that makes socially unacceptable noises.

The evening ended with an "Ugly Ornament" exchange. Several of the ugly ornaments looked suspiciously as if they had come from my old ornament collection that Katie had recently acquired, but what I thought was the worst one definitely did come from Jill and Rick and was a moose dressed in fatiques.

It was a very merry Christmas and it was such a treat for me to be entertained in my daughter's home this year!

Cutter enjoying a souffle with Jill

Rick, Bode, Kevin and Cutter Laramore work to open Bode's gift.

Christmas Eve at the Barrier Home

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 03:34:00 +0000

Katie Laramore, Cathi Hatch, Patty Barrier

The Barriers and the Hatches take turns hosting Christmas Eve dinner each year and this year Patty & Jimmy were the hosts. It was a beautiful party! Patty had worked very hard to plan activities to keep the Hatch grandchildren happy and occupied and at the same time planned a fantastic party for the adults too.

Kevin and Bode Laramore

The children's table was next to the adult table and Patty had thoughtfully seated the parents and nanny closest to the children. Plus, the table had been covered with butcher paper so the children were allowed to draw directly on it and there were markers and crayons and stickers and activity books. The children received a separate menu than the adults and the biggest hit was the snowman shapped finger jello. Spencer and Jackson Hatch knew just what to do with it, while Cutter Laramore was not too sure about it.

JJ McKay joined us for cocktails and held each of the younger babies, Andrew Hatch and Bode Laramore while the other adult dinner guests included Kjell Schei, Pat Wallace and her daughters Christy and Nancy, Alicia & Michael Hatch, Katie & Kevin Laramore and Ken and me.

Michael & Alicia Hatch

The menu was delicious which included tomato basil soup with a creme fraiche Christmas tree pattern garnishing the soup, beef tenderloin cooked perfectly with a delicious horseradish sauce, garlic mashed potatoes and crisp tender green beans. There were many dessert choices including Patty's special homemade sweet potato and pecan pie. Yum!

Pat, Christy & Nancy Wallace with Kjell Schei

Katie & Kevin decided to leave after dessert because their children were getting restless so they were loading their car when Cutter accidentally hit the door lock with his foot and locked himself into their Barrier Audi alone. And of course the keys were inside in the diaper bag. Being at the Barrier home had the decided advantage of Jimmy and Kjell getting on the phone with the dealership to figure out how to get the door unlocked. They all decided that the most time efficient way to get the door unlocked was to convince two and one-half year Cutter to unlock it. Between Jimmy, Kjell and Kevin, they were able to explain to Cutter what to do and it actually worked!

LtoR: Patty Barrier, Kjell Schei, Ken & Cathi Hatch,
Nancy, Pat & Christy Wallace, Jimmy Barrier,
Alicia & Michael Hatch

After the car drama, we participated in a white elephant gift exchange where the Sumo Wrestler made his yearly appearance and Patty happily opened the "snuggie" outfit. She was happy to pass it on and ultimately Kevin Laramore ended up with it, which I took to him the following evening.

Bode Laramore, Jackson & Spencer Hatch at the Children's table

Bode Laramore held by JJ McKay

Kjell Schei and Ken Hatch

Thank you Patty and Jimmy for another truly magical Christmas Eve!

Hatch Family Christmas Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 22:54:00 +0000

Three Generations: Ken, Michael & Andrew Hatch

We celebrated Hatch Family Christmas on Friday evening at our home. This year, there were four out of our six children and their respective families there to celebrate with us. The group included Ken's three sons Sean Hatch and his partner Troy Clark, Ryan & Teresa Hatch and their daughters Kylee and Nicky plus their cute little Maltese dogs, Bella and Bailey, Michael & Alicia Hatch and their three sons, Jackson, Spencer and Andrew and Sean and Ryan's mom, Renee Newitt, was also there to celebrate with us. My daughter and son-in-law, Katie & Kevin Laramore and their two sons, Cutter and Boden joined us as well and ZiZi Zinfandel Z-Dog was present and underfoot. Ken's daughter, Elizabeth, and my son Justin and his wife Amy plus children Stephen, Catarina, and Camilla were missing, but we were happy that we had recently seen all of them too.

Nicky & Ryan Hatch with ZiZi

This year the five attending grandsons' ages were 4 years, two at 2-1/2 years, 5 months and 3 months so they were busy! We tried a separate table and separate menu for the children which seemed to work better than trying to have them at the big table with us as we did at Thanksgiving. Since their menu included homemade Beecher's Macaroni and Cheese, we made sure there was enough for everyone else too since it is always such a favorite. Their menu also included raw carrots with "dip", cantaloupe, raspberries, chicken fingers with catsup and peppermint ice cream and Christmas cookies for dessert. Though the Thanksgiving menu had been a challenge for Jackson and Spencer, with a separate menu this time, none of the children complained about the food and they actually ate it too!

LtoR: Sean Hatch, Renee Newitt (hidden), Troy Clark,
Alicia Hatch, Michael Hatch, Kylee Hatch, Cathi Hatch,
Ken Hatch, Cutter & Katie Laramore, Nicky Hatch,
Teresa Hatch, Ryan Hatch, Kevin & Bode Laramore

The menu for the rest of the group began with Dungeness Crab Legs with Mustard-Mayo Horseradish Sauce, Gorgonzola, Caramelized Onions & Cranberry Tartlets, and Caviar Pie. We served Black Tie Tomato Soup, one of our holiday favorites, and a Pear, Pecan and Pomegranate Green Salad with Champagne Viniagrette followed by a buffet of Roast New York Loin with Dijon Horseradish Creme Fraiche, Blue Cheese and Rosemary Scalloped Potatoes, Baked Fennel with Tomatoes and Garlic, Oven Roasted Asparagus and of course the Beecher's Macaroni and Cheese. The dessert was warm gingerbread squares with hard sauce and fresh raspberries followed by a selection of Judy's Christmas cookies and Grandma Lee's Christmas fudge.

ZiZi begging Ryan to share Bailey

ZiZi, our resident Yorkshire Terrier, was very excited to have Maltese dogs Bella and Bailey come to the party, but could not understand why they didn't want to get down and play with her. They spent all their time nicely cuddling with anyone who would hold them, while ZiZi barked to have them come down and play. We also passed 5 month old Andrew and 3 month old Bode around for everyone to hold and ZiZi was very interested in them as well.

All of our children went together and bought a recliner chair for Ken for Christmas and it was quite a production getting it into the house. Kevin and Katie organized the gift and wrapped the giant box that it came in. Nicky, the tallest granddaughter, was boosted onto the shoulders of Ryan and Sean to open the dead bolt at the top of our 10 foot tall front doors so we could get the box inside the house. Once inside, they carried the chair upstairs for Ken to sit in on the spot. Ken was thrilled with his gift and both he and ZiZi look forward to long hours they will spend together there!

Nicky Hatch, Kevin Laramore, Sean Hatch

Teresa Hatch with Bailey, Kylee Hatch with Bode Laramore

The "adult" table

Katie & Cutter Laramore with new Leap Pad

Jackson & Spencer Hatch at the Children's Table

Ken enjoying his new chair

The Coburn Family Christmas Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 00:49:00 +0000

Pat Flug, Betty Tong, Eliza Flug, Cathi Hatch

Last night I attended the incredible Coburn Family Christmas Celebration with family members Alicia & Michael Hatch with sons Jackson, Spencer and Andrew and Katie & Kevin Laramore with sons Cutter and Boden. Our hosts, Eliza Flug and Chris Coburn had arranged to have the Seattle Tennis Club decorated as a Christmas fantasy land. Just inside the dining room was a complete gingerbread village which had been built by caterer extraordinaire, Lisa Dupar.

Jackson, Andrew, Spencer Hatch with Father Christmas

Upon arrival we immediately went to the room with the egg nog and hot chocolate bars and to see the most detailed and elegant Father Christmas I have ever seen. Jackson and Spencer were willing to participate in the photo op, while Cutter gave Father Christmas a very wide berth.

Jackson and Jackson with Elves

The children were very entertained by the many elves that were dressed head to toe in green and red with jingle bells and had fun chasing the elves throughout the club. The elves did a wonderful storytelling rendition of "The Night Before Christmas".In addition there were Dickens' carolers and a fantastic Christmas children's craft table under glistening silver snowflakes hanging from the ceiling.

Lucien Postlewaite and Olivier Wevers

We sat in the dining room at tables named after Santa's reindeer. Our table was the Dasher table where I shared dinner with Theresa Dowell & Greg Jones and their daughter Jeannine, Betty Tong & Joe Miner and their daughters Audrey and Caroline, Olivier Wevers and Lucien Postlewaite and Katie, Kevin, Cutter and Boden Laramore.

The Dasher Table

The Gingerbread Village

In addition to a beautiful dinner buffet, there was a dessert table that was fascinating for the children with a chocolate fountain fruit, cake and marshmallows to dip. Because Olivier was coveting the chocolate, Lucien brought him a wine glass filled with liquid chocolate. It was more chocolate than he had bargained for however.

I had the opportunity to wish many friends a very merry Christmas including Pat Flug, Eliza's mother, Julie & Tom Skerrit, Leigh & JP Canlis, Liffy's friend from high school, Noa Giamelli and many others. It was truly a spectacular party!

Celebrating Susan Von Hagen's Visit

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 07:37:00 +0000

Seated: CK Coles, Susan Von Hagen, Sandy Lund
Standing: Susan Neumann, Diane Kuenster, Cathi Hatch,
Sherryl Wilson, Pam Kaiser, Jan Kline

What a lovely luncheon friend Diane Kuenster hosted today for our dear friend, Susan Von Hagen, who is in town for Christmas. Susan has lived away from Seattle for around twenty years now, so we treasure any time that we get to spend together with her. Friends celebrating Susan's visit in addition to our hostess. Diane, included CK Coles, Jan Kline, Sheryl Wilson, Pam Kaiser, Sandy Lund, Susan Neumann and me.

Diane's house was so festive and her table was beautiful with her bright red tablecloth, her Bernardaud Nutcracker china, nutcracker napkin rings and whimsical Christmas blown glass wine glasses with a guest gift at each place setting. The entire lunch was delicious, but the real star was the molten chocolate cake for dessert. Yum!

Diane Kuenster with
Susan Von Hagen & Sandy Lunc

Eat straight from the oven!

We had so much fun recounting stories of some of the adventures and experiences we have shared over the years together. We realized that we have planned several surprise parties for Susan, two of which required Diane, Susan Neumann and me to break into her house; once to "borrow" her Christmas ornaments so we could have a Christmas tree decorating party as a surprise housewarming party for she and John which included accidentally taking the box of old non-working Christmas tree lights that Gordon Kuenster and John Fluke had to spend hours to get them working again. And another time for her fortieth birthday, we had to break in once again and go through her closets (this time with John's blessing) to choose an outfit for her to change into at her surprise birthday party at the Salish Lodge and Spa at Snoqualmie Falls.

We also recalled and laughed about the sticky from bow to stern Mai Tai stories of the boatwarming party we hosted many years ago on our boat, "The StarSpirit" that we shared and our less than graceful docking at the Seattle Yacht Club that afternoon.

We can't wait for Susan to come back to visit so we can take up again right where we left off. She remembers most of our stories and we look forward to making some new stories together as well.

Santa's Supper

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:39:00 +0000

"Grumpa" Ken Hatch with Cutter and the Carolers

Once again this year, the Rainier Club did a spectacular job of producing their inimitable Santa's Supper on Sunday evening. Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer greeted us in the parking lot and we entered the Club to the sweet sounds of carolers singing. Cutter, who was happy to see "Grumpa" was mesmerized by the carolers.

Baby Boden with Mommy Katie Laramore

The children were all scrubbed and dressed in their holiday best and were excited by the many activities in which to participate including photos with Santa, decorating sugar cookies, watching a magician, making s'mores in the Rainier Room, holiday craft projects, balloon animals, fighting with balloon swords, visiting their own separate child-size buffet area, and the separate sweets table.

We saw lots of friends at the club attending with their children and grandchildren including Betty Tong along with daughters Audrey and Caroline, Theresa Dowell & Greg Jones with daughter, Jeannine, Dan Ederer and Chris Martin, both with their wives and respective children, Carol & Spike Anderson, Joyce & Doug McCallum, Suzy & Moe Krabbe, Annette & Bob Parks all attending along with their children and grandchildren.

Kevin, Cutter, Boden & Katie Laramore with Santa

What a wonderful party! Attending with Ken and me this year were my daughter and son-in-law, Katie & Kevin Laramore and their beautiful young sons, Cutter and Boden. This was Cutter's second Santa's Supper and Boden's first. We all look forward to attending again next year and hope that Alicia & Michael Hatch and their sons Jackson, Spencer and Andrew will be able to attend too!

A Holiday Feast for Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 08:22:00 +0000

Our hosts, Tim & Sandi Premselaar

Tonight Ken and I attended the amazing bi-annual Holiday Celebration dinner hosted by Sandi & Tim Premselaar. There were 34 people attending and what an astonishing and complex production for friends!
When we arrived, there was a whimsical Christmas tree in the grand foyer that included a holiday decorated toy train that circled the tree. In between greeting friends and making witty conversation, Rod Hoffman spent some time on hands and knees getting the train to make it past one corner where it kept getting hung up. Everyone crowded into the bar for wine and cocktails and then enjoyed the delicious hors d'oeuvres that Sandi had prepared. My personal favorite was a mushroom and green onion puff pastry dough pinwheel. I am hoping that Sandi will share the recipe!

Susan Neumann, Susan Taylor, Peggy Swistak, Cathi Hatch

Sandi and Tim, who are the most gracious hosts, had removed all the furniture from their family room and had set up tables and chairs there and in the dining room in order to seat all the guests. In addition, Sandi had removed all the crystals from her chandelier and had hung crystal Christmas ornaments in their place. I also admired her collections of wise men, nutcrackers, and the extensive collection of a choir of tiny wooden angels. There wasn't a corner of their home that had not been decorated in celebration of Christmas and the holidays.

Trudi Syferd, Rod Hoffman, Diane Kuenster,
Toni Hoffman, Tom Raschella

Toni & Rod Hoffman

Moe Krabbe, Doug McCallum, Dave Syferd

Spike & Carol Anderson, Bob Cremin, Carole Ellison

A few of the other lucky friends attending the party included Susan & Gary Neumann, Carol & Spike Anderson, Susan Taylor, Peggy & Michael Swistak, Toni & Rod Hoffman, Sue & Tom Raschella, Diane & Gordon Kuenster, Joyce & Doug McCallum, Trudi & Dave Syferd, Carole Ellison & Bob Cremin, and Arlene Wright.

I can't even begin to scratch the list of international offerings, but the menu included roast beef with a tarragon sauce, baked lamb with garlic, baked ham with cranberries, an Indian version of lamb moussaka with chutney, chicken and almonds in phyllo pastry, Indian curried fruit, and the desserts included sticky toffee pudding, eggnog cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, bread pudding, Christmas cookies, almond crescent cookies. and pastry wrapped maraschino cherries with frosting. Just when we all thought we would pop from over-consumption, Sandi's helper brought a tray of Stilton cheese, crackers and candied grapes to clear the palate. Sandi is an absolutely amazing cook and has collected recipes from all over the world where she and Tim have both lived and travelled.

Our table shared stories of first dates with our spouses or partners and it was fun to hear the various stories from the different perspectives of the two people.

As we departed, I told Sandi that we really do want to invite them to our house, but that we need to have them lower their expectations substantially. I am trying to decide which pizza company I should call for delivery.

When What To My Wondering Eyes Should Appear?

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:13:00 +0000

Cathi Hatch and JJ McKay

JJ McKay was in fine form last night for his annual Christmas party wearing a set of sparkling and jingling antlers to get everyone in the party spirit. The site of the party was at Steve Jensen's eclectic and fantastic studio and when I arrived as one of the early guests, Steve's partner, Vincent Lipe was still taking care of last minute party details.

Over 150 people attended JJ's party. Many arrived bearing gifts for JJ, including me, so I wondered how he transported everything home at the end of the evening. It would have been quite a load. Though I left early, I did get the report that guests danced well into the evening until around 11:00 pm or so.

Isa D'Arleans with JJ

Jan Rogers and Kathie Price with JJ

A few of the people also attending the party included Olivier Wevers, Gemma Daggatt, Peter Wilson, Eve & Chap Alvord, Jan Rogers, Kathie Price, Tom & Anne-Marie Hedges, Elisabeth Bodal, Isa D'Arleans, Stacy & Greg Lill, Dana Reid, Pat Wallace, Julie & James Sun, Sharon Ballantine, Deborah Juarez, and Brad & Marisa Walker.

JJ, the ultimate party host, once again produced a party of fascinating people enjoyed by all!

Trademarks, Copyrights & Patents: Oh My!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 23:26:00 +0000

Eric Lent, Mike Reynvaan, Ben Straughn

Yesterday, our ZINO Business Insights education event for ZINO Society members and guests was sponsored by the Intellectual Property and Winery & Vineyard Practices at the law offices of our annual sponsor, Perkins Coie. Leading the seminar were Perkins Coie attorneys Susan Betcher, Of Counsel, and Julianne Henley, Associate, who talked about the ins and outs of protecting your brand, copyrights, patents and rights of publicity. The over 40 people in attendance enjoyed lunch and then were totally riveted to the presentations and had many questions to ask both during the presentation and afterwards, mobbing the speakers and panelists with their questions.

Julianne Henley answering trademark
questions

Susan Betcher answering IP questions

In addition to discussing intellectual property and anti-counterfeiting considerations that are applicable across all industries, the unique interplay of these rights and risks in specific industries - including the wine industry - was highlighted in a panel discussion featuring Eric Lent, Associate General Counsel of Chateau Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Mike Reynvaan of Reynvaan Family Vineyards and Partner at Perkins Coie and Ben Straughn, Partner at Perkins Coie.

ZINOpreneur Select Members, Dave Owens and Gary Schare
talk with ZINO Society member, Gary Ritner

A couple of our ZINOpreneur Select members, Dave Owens of FindProz Inc. and Gary Schare, President of Browsium commented on how valuable this session was as a benefit of their membership. I also heard several other long-time members say that this was the best ZINO Business Insights session they have attended.

Thank you to our friends and experts at Perkins Coie!

Another Birthday Gift - What to Expect in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 18:12:00 +0000

MIke Kunath and Dawn Stansfield

Mike Kunath invited Ken and me to join him for cocktails in his corner of the Fairmont Olympic Hotel Lobby Bar to celebrate my birthday. He had arranged for a plate of chocolate dipped strawberries with a candle to appear in recognition of my birthday. We shared the strawberries with others who had joined him in his corner including, Connie Blumenthal, Al Davis, Mike Flynn, Terral Wanzer and Dave, from Utah whose last name I did not hear, who is currently living at the Fairmont.

Mike Kunath, Al Davis, Terral Wanzer and Ken Hatch
help celebrate my birthday.

As another birthday gift, Mike arranged for me to have a brief "reading of my future" with Dawn Stansfield. Though she doesn't call herself a psychic, but a spiritual counselor instead, Dawn provides insights into peoples' pasts and readings of what she sees occurring in people's futures. Mike, who has known Dawn for some time and had her share her readings with him over the years, tells stories of the many times she has been able to project just what will occur next in his life.

I have never been able to decide what to believe or not believe about people who have the gift of seeing the future, but decided that an open mind is the best option. Dawn pegged me as a "conductor and connector" which is accurate and also as a "walking creative ideas person". She encouraged me to write my book this year which she said is already inside of me and just waiting to be written and said to include my "quirky, fun-loving sense of humor" in the book. She saw that I would travel this year, most likely on my book tour.

This all sounds very interesting . . . so now to make her projections reality, all I have to do is figure out what the topic of the book will be and write it! I am accepting suggestions and would be happy to hear yours!

Happy Birthday Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (Cathi Hatch) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:31:00 +0000

Susan Neumann, Londi Burnett, Jan Rogers,
Diane Kuenster, Cathi Hatch, Suzy Krabbe

What a fun, festive birthday lunch we had together in the Georgian Room at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel on Monday! It is always fun to go to the Fairmont during the holiday season. When I arrived, the incredible Madrigal Choir from Bothell High School was entertaining in the lobby surrounding the giant Christmas tree. I joined friends Susan Neumann, Diane Kuenster, Suzy Krabbe, Jan Rogers and Londi Burnett.

Bothell HS Madrigal Choir

We were there to celebrate December birthdays which included the birthdays for Jan, Londi and me. We get together around three times each year to celebrate the birthdays of the ladies in the group. The rules are that we bring only cards for the birthday girls, but each of the birthday girls brings gifts for the rest of the group, and that everyone except the birthdays girls share the check.

We always look forward to the funny cards we receive from each friend. Suzy believes in recycling cards so the personal message written on her cards is usually on a sticky note that is easily removed. Diane has a system (which we all envy) where she will include old photos of each of us on her cards. It is always fun to remember times together years ago and also surprising to realize how young we looked in those old photos since none of us feels any older! (Well . . . maybe just a bit in the morning when I get out of bed.)

Katie Laramore and Cathi Hatch

And then that evening, it was all about my birthday when I celebrated with Ken and my daughter, Katie and son-in-law, Kevin. Katie and Kevin planned dinner at Ethan Stowell's Staple & Fancy Mercantile in Ballard. Staple & Fancy highlights simple Italian-inspired food and offers a chef’s choice Fancy menu: a multi-course feast of seasonal dishes crafted by the chef just for our table. We were served seven separate small plates of appetizers including squid and garbanzo beans, deep fried clams and mussels, thinly shaved prosciutto, smoked trout bruschetta, and fried pork belly, two separate pastas; one was geoduck with potato gnocchi and the other was thinly sliced bacon with carmelized onions and two entrees which included swordfish and braised pork cheeks ending with two desserts. Our taste buds were all very entertained and satisfied and we will return!

Ken Hatch and Kevin Laramore

Ken had dug into our wine cellar and brought a bottle of 1997 Lakota Cabernet with him that paired beautifully with the food.

It was a wonderful birthday celebration! Still 39 and holding!