The Anna Armstrong White Foundation (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization) created Anna’ Ride Home to help make it a little easier for you for those times that maybe your planning was quite on spot. 

Anna’s Ride Home is a partnership between local bars and taxi companies with the sole goal of getting people home safely and off the road.  Bar staff is trained to recognize when a patron may need a drive home, and can offer up free cab vouchers.  The ride home program is confidential.

Currently, about 32 bars in the Puget Sound area are partners in the Anna’s Ride Home Program.  If your favorite establishment isn’t listed, you might tell them they should be.

• The Baltic Room Seattle
• The Central Saloon Seattle
• Cowgirls, Inc. Seattle
• Fado Irish Pub & Restaurant Seattle
• Horse and Cow Bar & Grill Bremerton
• Johnny’s Sports Bar & Grill Edmonds
• J & M Cafe and Cardroom Seattle
• Lady Luck’s Cowgirl Up Steakhouse & Saloon Tacoma
• Level 5 Seattle
• Liquid Lime Kirkland
• Marina Park Grill Kirkland
• McClouds Bremerton
• Mondo’s Pub Lynnwood
• MoonDogs, Too Port Orchard
• 19th Hole Tavern Bremerton
• Palmer’s East Redmond
• The Parlor Billiards & Spirits Bellevue
• Pyramid Brewing Seattle
• Rocksport Bar & Grill Seattle
• Romeo’s Bar & Grill Bremerton
• R Bar and Grill Renton
• R Place Bar & Grill Seattle
• Safeco Field Seattle
• The Shark Club Kirkland
• Tiki Joe’s Wet Bar Kirkland
• Time Out Kirkland
• 21 Central Kirkland
• Uncle Jack’s Billiards & Lounge Lynnwood
• Victory Lounge Seattle
• Wilde Rover Kirkland

The upcoming New Year’s Eve festivities has heightened awareness of drinking and driving, but Anna’s Ride Home is available 365 days a year. 

Photo credit:  SXC

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

1. Make reservations for dinner out.  Ok, all the really great spots may be booked up (or maybe not given the economy right now).  I’d suggest taking a look at Open Table and see what is available.  (This is a great site for reservations any time of year.)
2. Fireworks at the Space Needle.  You may still be able to get reservations for dinner or for one of the parties held there, but the real party is outside and it’s FREE.  The fireworks display at midnight attracts tons of viewers both in person and on television.  It’s great fun, even though it’s going to be cold, to be out on the street with friends and strangers welcoming the New Year.
3. Area casinos offer a variety of entertainment and parties, and although nowhere near as elaborate as what you’d find in Vegas, it should be fun for those willing to take a gamble on 2009.  Many have adjacent hotels, allowing you to stay close.
4. Check Ticketmaster for tickets to various venues around the city.  There’s comedy, music, and a variety of other performances, so chances are you’ll find something to snag your interest.  There are tickets to many performances still available, and if you can’t find decent seats, consider the General Admission option (standing only) at the Paramount for Presidents of the United States.  There is also reserved balcony seating available.
5. Catch one or two of the end-of-year new movie releases.  Fandango allows you to buy your tickets online in advance letting you avoid at least part of the lines. 
6. For the kids (grades 2-8), there’s a sleep over at the Pacific Science Center.  It’s a little bit science and a lot of excitement as 2009 is welcomed in.  At midnight the kids can watch the fireworks at the Space Needle from a kid-safe environment.
7. First Night in Tacoma is family friendly and alcohol-free, with a variety of events planned at downtown venues.
8. For a more reflective transition from one year to the next, many area houses of worship have special services and activities.  Giving thanks and praying for a better 2009 is not a bad idea.
9. Make hotel reservations, and combine a couple of these ideas for a festive night out.  If room rates seem a little high for your budget, and you don’t mind selecting an area to stay in without knowing the name of your hotel, Hotwire delivers great hotel bargains.  I use them a lot when I book a room downtown, and have never been disappointed.
10. Stay home.  Whether it’s by choice or because you didn’t plan early enough, there is a lot of New Year television programming.  Movies, sports, and you can watch the fireworks at the Space Needle or the ball dropping in Times Square all from the comfort of your own home.  And go ahead and go outside and bang pots and pans, or shout Happy New Year’s to your neighbors.  After all, it’s only one night of the year.

Image credit:  flickr

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

But, on the off chance that this snow melts quickly, put the Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park (Tacoma) on your must-see holiday lights list.  The two mile lighting display along Spanaway Lake is the the largest drive-through holiday lights display in the Pacific Northwest.

With over 300 displays, including animation, the bring a smile to light up even the coldest moment.

Tune the car radio to FM 93.7 for accompanying holiday music as you drive through to make it a complete sensory experience.

Location:  Spanaway Park, Bresemann Boulevard & Military Road, Spanaway (map it)

Date & Time:  November 27th, 2008 – January 4th, 2009, 5:30 – 9:30 pm

Admission:  $13 per vehicle.  Discounts tickets ($10) are available at Lakewood Community Center, Sprinker Recreation Center, and Garfield Bookstore at Pacific Lutheran University.

There are normally very lines and wait times for this popular community event, especially on weekends.  The snow may reduce driving traffic, so if you’re able to get out and around safely, it may be a good time to plan a visit. 

The display will be up through January 4th, and the snow has to be gone by then!

Photo credit:  flickr

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

. . . there ARE things going on other than Bumbershoot.  Oh sure, Bumbershoot is a lot of fun, but if you’re worried about the weather, want to around a few thousand less people, or are tired of the same old Labor Day Weekend experience, check out the Penny Arcade Expo.

50,000 gamers are expected to attend this year’s 3-day PAX event, which has easily morphed into the largest get together for gamers in the country.  This event is all about YOU, the gamer rather than about the industry.  It’s a giant 3-day party for tabletop, video, and PC gamers!

Yes there will be some panel discussions, educational sessions, and an exhibit hall full of the latest and greatest, but there will also be tournaments, free play areas, late night movies and concerts, and plenty of time to hang out with like minded souls.  Have a look at the PAX schedule of events, and plot out your weekend.

Location:  Washington State Convention Center, main entrance on the corner of 7th and Pike, downtown (map it)

Date & Time:  August 29th-31st.  Friday 2 pm – 3 am (exhibit hall closes at 7 pm); Saturday 10 am – 3 am (exhibit hall closes at 6 pm); and Sunday 10 am – 6pm.

Admission:  $50 at the door covers admission to all events for all three days.  No additional tickets needed for specific event, although capacity in some rooms are limited.  What a bargain! 

Gamers of all ages are welcome to attend PAX, although parental permission is required for those gamers 12 years of age and younger.

Photo credit:  flickr

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

The concert series has been a popular part of the Puyallup Fair. and this year’s line up looks like another banner year of entertainment:

• September 5th – Pro Rodeo Tour, followed by Chris Cagle
• September 6h – Pro Rodeo Tour, followed by Bucky Covington
• September 8th – The Black Crowes
• September 9th – Casting Crowns
• September 10th – Kid Rock
• September 11th – Sara Evans with Josh Gracin
• September 13th – Orange County Choppers
• September 15th – Ronnie Milsap with the Tacoma Symphony
• September 16th – Fergie
• September 17th – Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons
• September 18th – Al Jarreau, The Manhattan Transfer
• September 19th – Carrie Underwood
• September 20th – Michael W. Smith & Steven Curtis Chapman
• September 21st – Doodlebops Live!

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.  Concert prices include fair admission, and vary based on performance and seating.

After seeing Jersey Boys (read review) with friends, we’re planning on going to see Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons.

Photo credit:  flickr

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

. . . enjoy more than 50 bands, mingle with neighbors and visitors alike, and support a couple of great causes, at The Capitol Hill Block Party. 

Jam and various locations to bands that will include Vampire Weekend, Chromeo, The Hold Steady, DeVotchka, and a whole lot more. Take a look at the block party schedule of events to plan your time there.

Location:  Seattle’s Capitol Hill, of course!  Various venues and clubs, so check the map.

Date & Time:  July 25-26th, 2008, Friday music starts at 4:30 pm, Saturday at 2 pm. 

Tickets:  A variety of tickets options are available, from specific events to full 2-day passes.  Available at Seattle Urban Outfitters, Rudy’s Barbershops, select QFC’s, Moe Bar, and online from Ticketswest.

NOTE:  Some venues are 21 and over only!.

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

The Tulalip Amphitheatre is located between the Tulalip Casino and the Premium Outlet Mall in Marysville, and has become one of the more popular venues for outdoor concerts.  There is free parking, a couple beer gardens, and a variety of food and beverage options.

Here’s the line up for 2008 Summer Series:

• Tuesday, July 8th – Kenny Loggins
• Thursday, July 24th – George Thorogood & Buddy Guy
• Sunday, August 3rd – Trisha Yearwood
• Wednesday, August 20th – KC & the Sunshine Band
• Sunday, August 24th – The Temptations & The Four Tops
• Thursday, September 11th – Huey Lewis & the News

You do not need to be over 21 to attend the concerts, but it is required for admission to the beer garden.  No outside food allowed.

There is reserved seating in addition in chairs.  General admission is lawn seating (bring a low back chair and blanket if you’d like).

Location:  10200 Quil Ceda Boulevard, Marysville (map it)

Dates & Times:  Show dates as noted, all shows at 7 pm

Tickets:  On sale Mary 16th, 2008, 10 am.  Available at the casino and through Ticketmaster.  Prices vary.

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

. . . head over to Mainstage Comedy & Music Club and let comedian Brian Malow, tickle your funny bone with humor from the world of science. 

If you’re like me, when you think of science you probably think of dry, dull, dare I saw BORING information and details.  While that may be true, there’s also a lot of wackiness out there, and Brian Malow exploits it all — from the mating ritual of insects to bacteria — it’s funny stuff.

Location:  315 1st Avenue North, downtown (map it)

Dates & Times:  April 24-26th, 2008.  Thursday, 8 pm; Friday & Saturday 8 pm, 10:30 pm

Admission:  $10 Thursday, $20 over the weekend

Don’t take my word for it — take a look:

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

It’s a big line up, with a diversity sure to appeal.  Performance dates and ticket prices are listed below.  All performances are at 7 pm unless otherwise noted.

June

• 6th – Crosby, Stills & Nash – SOLD OUT
• 13th – The Neville Brothers & Dr. John – $69.50 reserved seating/$39.50 general admission
• 28th – Earth, Wind & Fire -$99.50 reserved/$52.50 general

July

• 2nd – Mark Knopfler – SOLD OUT
• 2rd – BB King – $89.50 reserved/ $49.50 general
• 12th – Hippie Fest – $69.50 reserved/$48.50 general
• 19th – Ringo Starr & His All Starr Band – $99.50 reserved/$55 general
• 21st – James Taylor & his Band of Legends – SOLD OUT
• 22nd – James Taylor & his Band of Legends -  SOLD OUT
• 24th – Chris Isaak – $69.50 reserved/$45 general
• 25th – Lyle Lovett in Concert – $78.50 reserved/$46 general
• 26th – Lyle Lovett in Concert – $78.50 reserved/$46 general
• 30th – Steely Dan – SOLD OUT

August

• 1st – Smokey Robinson – $89.50 reserved/$49.50 general
• 2nd – KWJZ Music Festival – $79.50 reserved/$45 general.  This performance is at 2 pm.
• 3rd – KWJZ Music Festival – $79.50 reserved/$45 general.  This performance is at 2 pm
• 22nd – Gipsy Kings – $89.50 reserved/$49.50 general
• 23rd – Chicago – $79.50 reserved/$49.50 general
• 24th – Chicago – $79.50 reserved/$49.50 general
• 29th – Michael McDonald – $59.50 reserved/$39.50 general

Tickets for all concerts go on sale Saturday, April 26th at 10 am, and may be purchased online through Ticketmaster (service charge applies), in person only at the Chateau Ste. Michelle wine shop (10 am – 5 pm).

Location:  Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14111 NE 145th Street, Woodinville (map it)

Parking:  Attendants will direct cars to both onsite and offsite parking areas, and complimentary shuttles are provided.  Carpooling is strongly recommended.

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler

I have been to Seattle three times – 2006, 2007 and March of this year. I would be coming to Seattle again on the last week of April and I am definitely excited on my trip.

I instantly felt at home in Seattle seeing the vast number of places where you can get connected and the number of Microsoft techie people in malls, restaurants, buses. I specialize in Microsoft technologies and work with the top IT Services firm in the world and seeing a lot of Microsoft people around definitely felt home for me.

Aside from the work environment and being a Microsoft country region, I am big on food and drinks which Seattle has a lot to boast off. I would usually start my stay in Seattle at The Cheesecake Factory which has a large menu selection, lots of desert choices and large servings which is just what I need after almost 21 hours of travel from the time I leave my place in the Philippines until I arrive in my hotel in Seattle.

The Whisky Bar

2000 2nd Ave
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 443-4490

I would usually visit The Whisky Bar on my first day in Seattle and drink as much as I can to make sure I get to sleep at night and fight off jetlag. Inside the bar there is a billiards table, performers at the corner and the overall place is compact and nice which is what I love about it the most. I’d usually frequent the Whisky Bar every time I’m in Seattle.

Kell’s Irish Restaurant & Pub

1916 Post Alley
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 728-1916

The first time I went to Kell’s was during my last visit, March of this year, and I cannot wait to go back there in April. I love the local sports viewing, the cozy and warm atmosphere of the place. Kell’s is near the Pike Market Place which is familiar to me as I’d usually get a cup of coffee at the first Starbuck’s located in Pike.

Buenos Aires Grill

220 Virginia St
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 441-7076

Buenos Aires Grill is said to be the best Argentine cuisine in the Northwest and I would agree you get a different dining experience especially when they served our food (see image below) with various meat on top of each other. We were surprised when the waitress took out all of our plates and told us to eat on what we jokingly called the placemat underneath the plate. I love the different kinds of meat that was served to us; but I loved the wine the most. It worked perfectly well with the meat. The place isn’t cheap as my colleagues and I ended up paying around 90 dollars each but it was definitely worth it.

Metropolitan Grill

820 2nd Ave
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 624-3287

The Metropolitan Grill is also one of my favorite places to dine for steak. They usually make it as one of the top steak houses in the U.S. and I guarantee you the steak is excellent. The place is huge and you’d expect it to be packed with people enjoying their meal. We’d usually spend around 90-130 USD per person, money well spent in this kind of restaurant.

PF Chang’s China Bistro

400 Pine St
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 393-0070

This is probably the restaurant I cannot live without in Seattle. Great Chinese food, atmosphere and reasonably priced at around 20-30 USD per meal. I am an Asian and a Chinese cuisine lover, I rest my case.

Others places I love

I have also visited great places like the EMP, Space Needle, & Museum of Flight and I do recommend dropping by those places.

Final notes

I love Seattle and it is a great place both professionally and personally.

Milo Riano is an Associate Manager at Accenture, Philippines who travels to Seattle every now and then. His personal blog is at Milo Riano, technical blogs at B5Media’s WindowsVistaWeblog, and Techticles.

Photo credit:  flickr

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler