Admin

May In The Seattle Garden By Bruce Bennett

Published on May 8, 2024

This month, I have taken to sitting on the back deck with my morning coffee in-hand and enjoying the fresh emerging beauty of springtime across the landscape. The new ruby-tinted foliage of the Andromeda/Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub ‘Variegata’ (Pieris japonica) echoes the red flowers of the ten-foot-tall Rhododendron ‘Vulcan’ and the newly opened buds of Azalea ‘Hino Crimson’.

These plants are color counterpointed by the whites of the shrub New Zealand Pittosporum/ Kohuhu ‘Variegata’ (Pittosporum tenuifolium – pictured right), COSTCO-size pots of cascading green and white Wintercreeper ‘Emerald Gaiety’ (Euonymus fortunei) and the upright exclamation points of Sweet Iris ‘Variegata’ (Iris palida).

Later in the season, the flowers of Crabapple ‘Golden Raindrops’ (Malus transitoria) and Mountain Laurel ‘Olympic Fire’ (Kalmia latifolia – pictured left) will repeat this red and white color combination. The views and scents carried on the warming air make the work of gardening worth all the effort. The background of deep burgundy leaves from the Purple Smoke Bush ‘Purple Robe” (Cotinus coggygria), added to the blooming bulbs and emerging hostas, make all the colors in the yard POP. All this botanical wonder tells me we are in ‘the lovely month of May.’

We have passed the final major hurdle of winter – the Last Frost Date. Depending on your local micro-zone, this date is somewhat flexible. Even my own North Seattle dates will vary from one year to the next. These days, I’d say that April 15 – 20 is appropriate for most USDA Zone 8/9 plants. However, do remember that frost dates are based on historical climate data and are not set in stone. Over-all climate change will have these dates moving earlier in the year. The probability of frost occurring after the spring frost date or before the first autumn frost date is 30%, which means there’s still a chance of inflicting itself upon our yards before or after the stated dates! Always keep an eye on your local weather forecast and plan to protect tender new plants accordingly. Regardless of when the big box stores and garden centers begin selling herbs and vegetable starts, for me, the planting of warm weather taste-treats, such as basil, cilantro and the all-important tomatoes, does not happen until after May 1. As many of you already know, I’m a thrifty (AKA cheap) Connecticut Yankee and don’t intend to spend the money on these cold-tender plants more than once a year!

I usually say that I have a large ornamental and perennial garden. The fact is the entire area around the house is garden, with the only lawn to be seen in my surrounding neighbors’ yards (Hmmm, we may need to take a look at the topic lawn alternatives in the future – what do you think?). In order to stay on top of gardening tasks, my wife and I keep a loose schedule of jobs to be completed. By the end of March, the planting beds have been spring-cleaned and last year’s perennials cut back, as well as the shrubs that that flower on new wood. There is a bit of bed edging to do and fertilizers or compost to spread. In April, we transplanted and divided everything that needed it and, of course, started to add new plants to the ever-changing landscape. Let’s face it, gardens are never done! They continue to be works-in-progress and teach us that Life is all about change.

Now, it’s May and I can totally enjoy the beauty of last year’s work and this spring’s recent efforts. The biggest job on the May ‘To-Do List’ is mulching. I think there will be some two yards of medium-ground bark mulch in my near future. Remember, that one important reason to mulch is to keep the soil cool in the summer and retain moisture. If you are looking forward to planting annuals, let the soil warm up a bit more. If you plant your annuals too early in cold soil, they will just sit there doing nothing until a bunny (Easter or otherwise) comes along to eat the tender growth. It’s best to wait until May 15 to plant annuals in the ground. While you are waiting, though, if you haven’t already done it, plant your pots. Soil in pots gains heat much quicker than ground soil, so, plant them. I usually do mine by the end of April. Should we get a frost warning, move them into the garage overnight or stick a garden stake in the center of them and throw a tarp, sheet or piece of plastic over their heads to make a temporary cloche.

As the bulbs finish flowering here and there in the yard, they should be deadheaded. Cut just the spent flowers or entire flower stem off, but never the leaves. Cutting the leaves off prematurely will prevent the bulb from completing its photosynthesis process which allows the plant to convert the sun’s energy to necessary nutrients. In other words, the bulb will weaken and eventually disappear if you continue to cut off its green leaves. Wait until the leaves turn brown. You can fold the leaves with a rubber band to make browning leaves less noticeable. Planting your bulbs among later emerging perennials (I like hardy geraniums for this job) and groundcovers will also help to camouflage the withering leaves.

During April and May, you have been enjoying the blooms of all early flowering shrubs. May is the time to prune those shrubs if you want to reduce their size or otherwise change their shape. Also check for damaged, diseased or crossing branches and cut them out. If you pay attention to your azaleas, lilacs, rhododendrons, etc., you will notice that shortly after blooming they start setting next year’s buds. If you prune these shrubs in July, which many people do, you will get few-to-no flowers next year. Prune them shortly after they finish flowering before they set those new buds.

Now back to the mulch. Choosing the type of mulch to use is also a topic for another article. However, whatever you choose, wait until the soil is warm, then add two to four inches. Spread it carefully around your emerging perennials and shrubs and newly planted annuals. The mulch will not only make your garden look finished, it will also keep the soil cool in the heat of summer, help retain water, prevent weeds and add organic material to your soil. After spreading my mulch over a planting area, I like to use a pre-emergent, such as corn gluten, to prevent/reduce weed seed from germinating without damaging other plants that are already growing. When your neighbor’s dandelion seeds blow into your garden, the pre-emergent will stop them from developing for up to three months. Just remember not to spread it anywhere you are counting on certain flowers to self-seed.

I think of March, April, and May as the building block months for gardens. When the above-mentioned tasks are completed and the mulch is spread, I see the hard work of the new gardening season is over (and I can rest my back). The remainder of the growing year consists of, basically, general light maintenance, watering, insect/disease vigilance and the all-round sensory enjoyment of what has been created (preferably from the back deck with a cup of coffee, in-hand of course). Happy gardening all!

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Master Gardener, lecturer and garden designer. If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com

Break the Stigma Seattle: The Importance of Talking About Mental Health During Mental Health Awareness Month

Published on May 6, 2024

Encourage those struggling or in crisis to call 988 for help.

By Dr. Carl Janzen, Associate Director of Primary Care, for Optum located in Seattle.

Seattle, known for its coffee culture, great restaurants and vibrant tech scene, is also home to a growing concern: mental health. As Seattleites confront life’s challenges, like all Americans, they face unique obstacles that impact their well-being.

Many are struggling with mental health issues such as increased anxiety and depression. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during late June of 2020, 40 percent of U.S. adults reported they were struggling with mental health issues or substance use. These abnormally high numbers have disproportionately affected younger adults, racial and ethnic minority groups, essential workers, and unpaid adult caregivers.

Locally, like adults, youth are struggling too. Although a Washington State Healthy Youth Survey in 2023 shows that the number of youths in King County struggling with mental health issues is on a slight decline, there is still room for improvement. According to the survey, the number of 10th graders feeling like they have no one to turn to when depressed in King County is still 9.6% compared to 12.3% statewide.

Furthermore, those with depressive feelings is 23.5% locally compared to 29.9% statewide, and those feeling nervous, anxious and on edge are 60% compared to 61.7% statewide. Data Dashboard – Healthy Youth Survey (askhys.net)

Poor mental health among adolescents can impact many areas of a teen’s life and increase stress on families. Making sure teens feel connected to school and family is very important in helping them grow into healthy adulthood.

May is recognized as Mental Health Month, an opportunity to learn about mental health conditions and treatment options. Although exploring mental health treatment options, which includes psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy), medication, or self-care, can be confusing or difficult, is an important part of mental health care. Some important messages to remember this Mental Health Month are:

You are not alone. Millions of people in the U.S are affected by mental illness each year. By acknowledging how common mental illness is, we can better understand its impact and reduce the stigma.
Self-care such as practicing yoga or meditation, eating well-balanced meals, staying physically active and getting plenty of sleep, are healthy ways to help cope with stress so you can better take care of yourself and in turn, be in a better position to help take care of others.
Connect with others by talking to people that you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Conversation is a powerful coping tool that may help manage stress and help promote resilience.
Consider talk therapy, which may be an appropriate option for you. Telemedicine can be a tremendous help to people particularly for people who are unable to get in-person treatment.
Educate yourself by talking to your doctor or using online resources. The more you know, the more you can dispel misinformation or myths that can increase the stigma around mental illness and hold people back from receiving the treatment they need.
Talk to your child about mental health. Feeling connected to family and school can have a significant impact on their mental health, so communicating openly and honestly with your child provides them with a sense of connectedness.
If someone you know needs help, listening to them in a comfortable and non-judgmental way can be a good place to start. It’s important to genuinely express your concern and avoid blaming, criticizing, minimizing or assuming things about their experience.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Optum Disclaimer: If you or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.

Mental Health Month is a good time to have discussions about mental health and do your part to break the stigma.

The Garden Guy Chooses New Plants for 2024

Published on March 16, 2024

As a home gardener, one of the satisfying rituals of spring is finding new garden treasures; those plants that are making their debut in the retail marketplaces. They are generally sports or hybrids of plants that have been on the market for years, with the new ones having a different sense of style and usage to them. Or, they can be new hybrids. Whether larger or smaller in size; darker, lighter or variegated leaves or larger flowers; etc., all have the ability to add something ‘extra’ to the humble part of your landscape that cries out to be noticed. A little dramatic? Perhaps. But, you get the gist of what I’m saying. No part of a landscape needs to be boring. It is worth too much in the way of underutilized garden space, monetary value and in satisfying your aesthetic senses to be just ‘Okay.’ A new vignette may be just the thing to enliven the space and create a smile on your face on your face when gazing at the site.

This year, growers and hybridizers seem to have outdone themselves and have brought a bumper crop of hundreds of new (and, of course, improved) plants to garden center shelves and tables. Although I have not actually viewed all of the new candidates, what I have seen at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show, area plant trials and wholesale growers’ beds, have provided me with several contenders for your attention. My prime considerations for Western Washington new plants-of-note include drought and heat tolerance (after root systems are established), disease resistance, low maintenance and, of course, presence in the garden. This year, my candidates for your horticultural scrutiny include perennials, grasses, shrubs and trees (sorry folks, I don’t do annuals). Seek them out, do your own research and evaluate their worthiness for that needy spot in your own yard…….

Artemisia x ‘Silver Lining” (White Sagebrush/Wormwood)

My top perennial choice doesn’t have much in the way of flowers, but, the foliage is a solid winner. A hybrid of two North American natives (the clumping Alaskan artemisia and the Western US artemisia) uses the best of its parentage to create a spectacular, durable foliage perennial. The broadly dissected silver leaves are showy from spring to fall. The mounded, low-wide habit maintains excellent form all season and resists opening up, like ‘Silver Mound’. Use this new perennial as a filler, color transition divider or backdrop in a landscape of flashy colors and or as spiller in mixed containers. Its yellow flowers are held on tall scapes and I would cut them off. In addition to its durability and excellent summer heat and drought tolerance, this artemisia will not rambunctiously spread through the garden as does its cousin, ‘Valerie Finnis.’ ‘Silver Lining’ forms a non-stoloniferous 15″ tall x 36” wide, winter deciduous ground cover with cutleaf silver foliage. Best results will be in average to dry soils, either sandy or clay. If those resilience attributes weren’t enough, this plant is also both deer and rabbit resistant.

Perennial runners-up include Agapanthus africanus ‘Bridal Veil’ (Lily-of-the-Nile), Brunnera macrophylla ‘Frostbite’ (Siberian Bugloss), Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Bit of Honey’ (Ox-eye Sunflower), Heuchera x ‘Forever Midnight’ (Coral Bells), and Teucrium fruticans ‘Harlequin’s Silver’ (Creeping Germander).

Panicum virgatum ‘Niagara Falls’ (Switch Grass)

This native from the Great Plains is an excellent grass in just about any landscape. With its late season seedheads and arching habit, ‘Niagara Falls’ is a good replacement for Miscanthus senesis. The powder blue leaf blades arch gracefully in the landscape, creating a soft cascading look. In early autumn, seed head plumes rise above the foliage creating a cream-colored cloud that gives the area texture and interest which will last through winter. Because of its foliage interest, this four-foot-tall grass is a multi-purpose plant that can be used in borders, containers, as specimen or in mass plantings. It is versatile and great looking, just what a plant should be!

It is an easy ornamental grass to grow in full sun to part shade and it will do well in just about any soil type in our part of the State. Remember to water it and cut it back in spring before the new growth appears and you have covered all of your maintenance bases. That’s right, save yourself some work and leave the buff-colored stalks to over-winter. In early fall, the seed head plumes that rise above the foliage will create a cream-colored cloud above the plant and will provide visual interest and bird habitat that will last through the winter doldrums.

Grass runners-up in this category include Amsonia hubrichtii ‘String Theory’ (Bluestar), Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Lemon Squeeze’ (Fountain Grass) and Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Brush Strokes’ (Little Bluestem).

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Eclipse’ (Big Leaf Hydrangea) is a shrub that has been receiving rave reviews from garden centers this spring. Probably because the shrub retains its dark foliage, rather than fading back to green, during the summer heat. The combination of the intense dark foliage and stand-out cranberry-red and white blooms makes for an excellent color counterpoint in just about any yard and, hopefully, a great dried-flower arrangement in a vase.

‘Eclipse’ is purported to have great disease resistance and low maintenance requirements. At three to five feet tall and wide, ‘Eclipse’ is size-appropriate for just about all smaller urban gardens. For its first three to five years, this hydrangea is a prime candidate for a porch or balcony container. After that, it will need annual pruning to keep it within bounds. As with most hydrangeas, this plant does best in morning sun and some afternoon shade. However, it can thrive in more sun in Western Washington if additional moisture is provided. ‘Eclipse’ is cold hardy down to Zone 5a and can take both our summer heat and winter cold snaps. If you are purchasing only one new plant this year, definitely consider the multi-faceted ‘Eclipse’ (and let me know how it does for you).

Shrub runners-up include Abelia x grandiflora ‘Angel’s Blush’ (Glossy Abelia), Calycanthus floridus, ‘Simply Sensational’ (Eastern Sweetshrub), Hydrangea paniculata ‘Little Hottie’ (Panicle Hydrangea), Ilex x meserveae ‘Little One’ (Blue Holly), Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Midnight Cascade’ (Hanging) Blueberry and Vitex agnus-castus ‘Queen Bee’ (Chastetree).

Cercis canadensis ‘Garden Gems Amethyst’ (Redbud) is a new dwarf tree which also features dark leaves and is compact enough to grow in a pot. It’s a slow grower that can reach eight to ten feet tall and wide, which is about half the size of a standard redbud. It flowers in early spring, sparkling with pink blooms before the foliage appears. In summer, the leaves will hold their amethyst color through our heat domes.

‘Amethyst’ is one of those plants I’d call a ‘nativar’ (a cultivar of a native plant, a Redbud in this case) that is pollinator-friendly, making it increasingly popular with the bee-lovers of our area. This new hybrid attracts pollinators and creates the perfect conversation piece in a small landscape or on a condo patio in full sun to part shade. If you don’t happen to care for the look of dark foliage, a sister (cousin?) Redbud will be coming out that has leaves which emerge red and then turn green. It’s called ‘Garden Gems Emerald.’

Tree runners-up include Heptacodium miconioides ‘Temple of Bloom’ (Seven-son Flower), Hesperocyparis arizonica ‘Crystal Frost’ (Arizona Cypress) and Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Leprechaun’(Leprechaun Arborvitae).

Readers should remember that this list is totally subjective. It is based on the plants I have seen and liked for their hardiness, versatility and’ WOW’ appeal that the neighbors don’t have. Use this list to kick-off your own horticultural sleuthing of those new additions at your favorite garden center. The downside of new-plant shopping is to remember the qualities of patience and perseverance. As new introductions, these little treasures may not appear in your area for a while. Do ask the garden center staff if the plant in question can be ordered or your name added to a Waitlist. That tact has worked for me many times over. Best of luck with this annual rite of Springtime and the newfound joy in your little patch of heaven. Happy gardening all!

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Master Gardener, lecturer and garden designer. If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com

Ben Kissel Channel: Unleashing Comedy and Chaos in Every Episode

Published on November 20, 2023

The Ben Kissel Channel’s New Episodes are out! The long-awaited return of Ben Kissel, the comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcast host, has finally arrived! Known for his work as a co-host on popular podcasts, Kissel steps into the spotlight as the sole host of his new show, available on BenKisselChannel.com and YouTube.

In Episode One of the Ben Kissel Channel, Ben and his co-host Cheiknar kick things off with a mix of personal anecdotes and uproarious commentary on current events. They dive into a range of wild topics that set the tone for what fans can expect from this new show.

First, they discuss the demise of serial killer Robert Pickton, offering a dark yet humorous take on the news. From there, they shift to lighter topics with Khloe Kardashian’s weight-loss journey and her drastically new look.

The bizarre journey continues with a story involving a funeral home worker who stole a sex doll: A tale that elicits both laughter and disbelief. The episode wraps up with a jaw-dropping story of a groom in Indonesia who discovered his bride was a man. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and absurdity, promising listeners an unforgettable experience.

In Episode Two, Ben and Cheiknar maintain their momentum with another blend of personal anecdotes and humorous commentary on the latest news. They start by discussing a new sexually transmitted fungal infection emerging in New York City, adding a comedic twist to a concerning topic.

Then they talk about an Edmonton Oilers fan who achieved internet fame for flashing her assets — a story that’s as unexpected as it is entertaining.

The episode also delves into a spine-chilling urban legend about the Patchwork Man, a tale that might leave listeners sleeping with the lights on. Ben and Cheiknar’s dynamic banter and unique perspectives make each story come alive and keep the audience hooked from start to finish.

Episode Three opens with Ben and Cheiknar sharing more personal stories and humorous insights into some truly outrageous news stories. They begin with a bizarre incident involving a man caught on camera stuffing antique store items up his (you know where) while wearing a kilt. This strange tale sets the stage for a series of equally wild topics.

They then discuss a high school senior paralyzed in a mishap during a game of Assassin, highlighting the unexpected dangers of seemingly harmless pranks. The episode also touches on the cultural shift away from public nudity in Germany, with Ben and Cheiknar humorously lamenting the decline of naked beaches.

Each topic is approached with a mix of humor and insight, making for an engaging and entertaining episode.

Episode Four features Ben, Cheiknar, and guest Jerii Aquino, who bring even more laughs with their unique spin on the latest bizarre news. They delve into the wild world of Power Slap, where contestants slap each other for cash, celebrating a Brazilian butt lift success story that turns a champ into a sensation.

Celebrity body part insurance also takes center stage, with JLo’s $28 million derrière stealing the spotlight. J.Lo is often rumored to have insured her famous buttocks. This rumor has become part of celebrity folklore.

The episode takes an even stranger turn as they discuss a psychologist/mom’s unorthodox stance on shopping cart etiquette and the controversial prison life of Larry Nassar. They also touch on Scott Disick’s dramatic weight loss and his struggles with Hawaiian rolls, adding a humorous twist to his saga.

To top it all off, they address the controversy surrounding a Mississippi state trooper dismissed for sharing a private video. The episode concludes with a special guest appearance by artist Randall Kaplan, who creates a unique piece of artwork live on the show, adding a creative and unexpected element to the mix.

Ben Kissel, renowned for his wit and multifaceted talents, does not disappoint with his newest venture. He builds off his roots in stand-up comedy that started at the University of Wisconsin-Stout before co-hosting the groundbreaking “Last Podcast on the Left” with Henry Zebrowski and Marcus Parks. The podcast garnered millions of listens.

Kissel has carved a niche by blending humor with true crime, a combination that garnered over one billion listens and a dedicated fan base across social media.

Now, on his own platform at BenKisselChannel.com, Kissel continues to captivate audiences with personal stories and uproarious takes on the latest oddities. Expect everything from bizarre criminal antics to eyebrow-raising cultural shifts, all delivered with Kissel’s trademark charm and towering six-foot-seven presence. Stay tuned for many new episodes to come as Kissel marks his long-awaited return to podcasting and show hosting.

Joined by co-hosts like the enigmatic Cheiknar, each episode promises a blend of comedic genius and offbeat insights that have made Kissel a household name in podcasting. With special guests like artist Randall Kaplan adding their own creative spark, the Ben Kissel Channel isn’t just a podcast — it’s a journey through the eccentricities of life you won’t want to miss!

Also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Start watching the first episode below.

Optimizing Your Health With Dr. Sean O’Mara

Published on October 14, 2023

If you don’t take care of your most important asset, your body, you will not have good health or a good quality of life. Unfortunately, our country has a huge problem with chronic disease, and millions of people are struggling with several health issues.

Instead of simply treating these issues, Dr. Sean O’Mara focuses on the source of chronic disease – visceral fat. After 13 years of researching, working with clients, and assessing MRIs, he has developed over 45 strategies for optimizing your health.

Dr. Sean O’Mara is the world’s leading health and performance-optimizing doctor. Optimizing your health means taking a deep look into your current health status, allowing you to make healthier choices to obtain your best health. Dr. Sean O’Mara defines it this way: “The best for the best.”

Reaching optimal health means being extremely conscious of what goes into your body. When you put junk in your body, you will only feel unhealthy and have poor performance. Eating healthy is essential as well as the proper advice. When you pay attention to what you eat and make healthy choices, you are much more likely to achieve better health and a better quality of life.

Taking charge of your health takes a lot of work and effort. But it can result in the best version of yourself. This is why Dr. O’Mara offers health-optimizing plans. With these plans, you will have the chance to speak with people from all over the world who are also looking to optimize their health and can encourage you to optimize your health.

When you become part of an optimizing health plan, you can speak with the members of your group about why you want to optimize your health and the goals you hope to achieve and provide your history. The opportunity to be a part of these groups offers a unique experience. You will have time to speak personally with Dr. O’Mara and receive helpful strategies on how to optimize your health.

For those interested in achieving optimal health, there are different plans available.

The first plan is the standard introductory plan. This involves three MRI scans with a consultation to go over the scans. Four 15-minute sessions with Dr. O’Mara are also available to help you stay on the path to health optimization.

You’ll also learn the 46 strategies that help you optimize your health, better your appearance, and improve your body’s performance. Share with other clients in Dr. O’Mara’s online group.

The second plan is specifically for improving cardiovascular health. It is a great option for those who wish to stop heart issues from occurring or slow down the progression of a heart issue.

Included in this plan are four MRI scans and a two-hour session with Dr. O’Mara. Also included are six 15-minute sessions with Dr. O’Mara to ensure that you are sticking to your optimization plan. An optimized physical exam and a membership to the optimized health online community will also be given to you.

Another option is the Alpha High-Performance Plan, where you will focus on your appearance and performance to achieve the best health. Named for the Alpha individual, or someone who wishes to be the best version of themselves, it is a great option for those wanting to become the “best biological version of themselves.”

Along with this plan are five MRI scans and a complete physical examination. Additionally, you will have three hours of consulting from Dr. O’Mara. You will also receive a personal trainer who will guide you through a one-hour workout session.

To make sure that you are staying on track with your optimal health plan, you will have eight 15-minute private sessions with Dr. Sean O’Mara. You will also have a membership for the community online as well as access to the smaller Alpha High Performer online chat group.

The last plan is called the Senior Executive Plan. This plan is great for those who need their bodies to be at peak performance as a part of their livelihood. Also included is an intense workout plan, an MRI scan of your whole body, and a complete body exam. You will also have an eight to twelve hour-long consultation and eight 10-to 15-minute sessions a week with Dr. O’Mara.

One major benefit of this plan is having daily access to Dr. O’Mara for all health-related questions. Other benefits offered with this plan include two 45-minute workout sessions and a paid three-day trip to an MRI diagnostic center with accommodations and healthy meals provided.

By addressing the root cause instead of just treating the symptoms, health optimization can improve your health so you can grow better and not just older. It is a mindset that will help you achieve a longer life and a better quality of life. If you are interested in improving your body’s health, consider working with Dr. Sean O’Mara to achieve optimal health. You can follow him on his LinkedIn or Instagram.

Dr. Sean O’Mara: Helping Everyone Achieve Their Highest Biological Potential

Published on October 13, 2023

Before Dr. Sean O’Mara became a doctor, researcher, and expert in health optimization, he lived in Virginia, where he served as a police officer, discovering that he enjoyed working in traumatic situations. He went on to graduate from Penn State University with high honors, then later decided to receive his law degree from Villanova University School of Law. For some time after he graduated from law school, he served as a criminal prosecutor in the city of Philadelphia. [LinkedIn]

Determining that he had a passion for helping people, Sean decided to study medicine at Temple University. As he liked working in trauma and emergency situations, he decided to focus on emergency medicine to become an emergency medicine doctor.

He joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps as an emergency physician, later being chosen to treat several presidents, secretaries of state, and other government officials. Dr. O’Mara received the U.S. Army’s Outstanding Physician of the Year Award for his dedication and service.

As an ER physician, a patient approached him, admonishing him that he should consider cutting out carbohydrates and the many health benefits that go along with the paleo diet. At the time, Dr. O’Mara had not heard of that diet and became intrigued by the potential health benefits.

He was then struggling with some health issues of his own, suffering from an enlarged prostate, having difficulty sleeping at night due to restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, cardiovascular issues, and heartburn that resulted in lesions in the esophagus that had to be screened every three months to make sure that cancer hadn’t developed, and skin conditions such as eczema.

Curious, he decided to do more research on the paleo diet. He then stopped eating processed food and only ate meat and vegetables. After making these changes in his diet, he noticed that all of his health issues went away. However, despite these positive changes, he was angry that the issues were not resolved with medications or other medical procedures but rather were resolved with diet changes. This made him question his medical education, as this was not part of it.

Dr. O’Mara decided to move his family from Washington D.C. to Minneapolis, where he joined a research practice that studied visceral belly fat. This is not part of the material covered in medical school. However, Dr. O’Mara soon discovered that chronic disease is one of the largest issues in the country and that eating meat and vegetables is the best way to treat chronic disease, removing the harmful visceral fat in the body.

Other foods that are good for the body are fermented foods, as they are historically what our ancestors would have eaten. This includes kefir, kombucha, kimchi, blue cheese, other fermented cheese, and fermented beets. Fermented foods contain microbes, which are beneficial for our health.

It is also important for us to look for the healthiest source of meat, just as our ancestors would have done. This means that we need to purchase lean meat that is grass-fed with golden fat around the edges instead of white fat, as that is a sign of being fed grains.

After extensive research with MRI scans, meat that is marbled is the muscle that is inflamed in the animal. Cows that have been fed grain, corn, and even molasses have inflamed muscles as they have been fed a diet of processed foods. Processed foods result in inflammation in the body, as well as causing harmful visceral fat.

Dr. O’Mara strongly believes that getting MRI scans is the best way to discover your health status. It shows you how much visceral fat your body holds. Dr. O’Mara believes that these scans are the most effective way to persuade an individual to make drastic changes to their health, even more so than just seeing numbers on a screen. When a person can see the visceral fat inside of their body, it demonstrates their need for dietary changes.

With all of his research and developing plans for preventing and reversing chronic diseases, Dr. O’Mara was recognized on a national level and received a research grant from the National Science Foundation in 2016 for learning more about reversing chronic health issues.

His optimization techniques are designed to help people prevent and reverse chronic issues. They can help a person look and feel younger because it is treating the underlying cause and not just the symptoms.

Dr. Sean O’Mara is a non-profit doctor who is dedicated to putting all proceeds received back into research for natural ways to optimize health. As he has been in law enforcement and has also served in the military, he is especially dedicated to helping emergency first responders and the military in achieving better health.

He is the world’s first, and possibly only, health optimization physician. He has worked with several high-profile clients in his health optimization plans; however, they are available to everyone. His goal is to help everyone obtain their highest biological potential.

5 Seattle Restaurants You Must Try In 2023

Published on September 28, 2023

Seattle, the jewel of the Pacific Northwest, is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes but also its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. In a city where culinary innovation thrives, five restaurants have emerged as exceptional dining destinations, each with its unique charm and flavors. These 5 Seattle restaurants are a must try. Through this article, you will travel on a journey to discover the gastronomic delights of Pizzeria Credo, The Pink Door, All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar, Chan Seattle, and Tilikum Place Cafe.

Pizzeria Credo: Where Tradition Meets Modern Italian Delights

Pizzeria Credo in Seattle is a place where you can enjoy the best of Italian tradition with a modern twist. The pizza I had was fresh and appeared to be made with all fresh ingredients.

Italian Culinary Heritage: At Pizzeria Credo, you’ll find a menu that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Italy. While the spotlight is on pizza, expect to discover a variety of Italian classics crafted with care and authenticity.

Perfecting Pizza: The heart of Pizzeria Credo lies in its wood-fired oven, which adds a smoky and irresistible aroma to their pizzas. Each pizza is a work of art, featuring thin crusts and locally sourced ingredients that burst with flavor.

Beyond Pizza: While pizza takes center stage, the menu also extends to other Italian delights, including handmade pasta and delectable desserts like tiramisu. It’s a place where Italian tradition meets contemporary excellence.

Website: https://www.pizzacredo.com
Address: 4520 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116

The Pink Door: Where All Your Senses Come Alive

The Pink Door is a unique restaurant in Seattle that offers more than just a meal, it’s an experience that engages all your senses.

Italian-American Magic: The Pink Door specializes in Italian-American cuisine, serving up a blend of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Italy. From pasta dishes to sumptuous lasagna, the menu is a celebration of Italian-American culinary traditions. The lasagna I ordered had a healthy amount of sauce and I really enjoyed it.

Sensory Delights: What sets The Pink Door apart is the immersive experience it provides. Live jazz and cabaret performances add a touch of magic to your dining experience. You’ll also be treated to aerial performances, making it a feast for your eyes and ears.

Hidden Gem: Tucked away behind a pink door in Pike Place Market, this restaurant is a bit of a hidden gem. Finding it feels like discovering a well-kept secret, adding to the sense of adventure.

Website: https://www.thepinkdoor.net
Address: 1919 Post Alley Seattle, WA 98101

All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise

All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar is a restaurant in Seattle that’s all about seafood. If you’re a fan of fresh, ocean-inspired cuisine, this is the place for you. As you know, Seattle is one of best cities for fresh fish and other seafood. It’s one of the reasons I love living in Seattle.

Oceanic Delights: This restaurant specializes in seafood, offering a delectable selection of dishes that showcase the bounties of the ocean. From succulent oysters to tender Alaskan king crab legs, they have a menu filled with treasures from the sea.

Quality Matters: The focus at All Water is on quality. Expect your seafood to be expertly prepared to preserve its natural flavors. It’s a place where the taste of the ocean takes center stage. The food I saw coming out appeared fresh as it should be being in Seattle, Washington.

Seasonal Surprises: The menu may change with the seasons, allowing you to enjoy the freshest catches and seafood specialties based on what’s available. This commitment to seasonal dining ensures a dynamic and delightful experience.

Website: https://www.allwaterseattle.com
Address: 1000 1st Avenue Seattle WA 98104

Chan Seattle: Discover Korean Culinary Artistry

Chan Seattle is a restaurant in the heart of the Emerald City that provides a fascinating look into the world of Korean cuisine. If you’ve ever been curious about Korean food or want to experience bold and exciting flavors, Chan Seattle is the place to be. As a foodie living in Seattle, I love to discover these new places and different types of cuisine.

Unique Flavors: While the exact dishes offered at Chan Seattle aren’t specified, you can expect a mouth watering adventure filled with the distinctive and savory tastes of Korean cooking. Korean cuisine is known for its rich, spicy, and umami-packed dishes, and Chan Seattle delivers giving you delightful variety of these flavors.

Cultural Exploration: Dining at Chan Seattle is more than just a meal, it’s a cultural and food dining experience. Korean cuisine often features a wonderful blend of tradition and innovation, and you’ll likely find both classic favorites and modern twists on traditional dishes.

Popular Destination: With 312 reviews, Chan Seattle has garnered a significant amount of attention. Its popularity suggests that it has something special to offer, making it an intriguing destination for those seeking to expand their culinary horizons.

Website: https://chanseattle.com
Address: 724 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101

Tilikum Place Cafe: A Cozy Seattle Eatery

Nestled in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood, Tilikum Place Cafe is a charming spot that welcomes you with open arms. This cafe doesn’t just serve food; it provides an experience that’s cozy and comforting. Belltown is one of my favorite areas to visit because its close the water and views are amazing. If you’re lucky you can catch the sunset on a beautiful day. The Tilikum Place Cafe has a lot to offer but these are my favorites.

Delicious Food: While the cafe doesn’t specify its exact cuisine, you can expect tasty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Think of it as a place where they take the best flavors of the Pacific Northwest and turn them into delightful meals. The chefs I saw appeared professional and dressed appropriately.

Warm Atmosphere: When you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a cozy hideaway. The cafe is designed to make you feel at home, with comfy decor and soft lighting. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a laid-back brunch with friends. You can bring a date here and feel comfortable.

Community Connection: Tilikum Place Cafe is part of Seattle’s commitment to local businesses and sustainable eating. They likely work closely with nearby farmers and suppliers to bring you the best food while supporting the community. As I get older, I would prefer my food come from local farms and less commercial.

Website: https://www.tilikumplacecafe.com
Address: 407 Cedar Street Seattle WA 98121

There you have it folks! Seattle’s food landscape is a place full of diverse flavors and unforgettable experiences. These five restaurants represent the city’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, each offering a distinct and remarkable dining adventure. I’ve visited all of these restaurants and was impressed with their food offerings.

Whether your taste buds are yearning for the perfection of a Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Credo, the mouth watering fusion of food and entertainment at The Pink Door, the many treasures of the ocean at All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar, a tantalizing journey through Korean cuisine at Chan Seattle, or feeling comfortable in Tilikum Place Cafe these establishments promise a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. These great places are all located here in the Emerald City of Seattle!

While in Seattle, keep in mind that these restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg in a city full of culinary wonders and chefs that know what they are doing. In the Emerald City, each meal is an opportunity to uncover new flavors, embrace diverse cultures, and celebrate the artistry of culinary traditions. These Seattle restaurants are some of the best in my opinion. So, relish every bite, toast to the pleasures of gastronomy, and savor the adventure through Seattle’s delectable dining landscape.

Photo by Wonderlane is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Rose Kreider: Internationally Recognized Seattle Female Filmmaker Breaking Barriers In The Local Film Industry

Published on September 28, 2023

Rose Kreider. A name you’ll hear more often than not. Rose started her career during COVID as an actor and model. She walked for New York Fashion Week in 2020 and 2021 for mini fashion designers across the nation, as well as participating in Seattle’s North American fashion week and walking for Macy’s department store four times. Rose began her film directing career in January 2021 after writing her first screenplay, The Woman, and becoming internationally recognized and winning three awards for the film, which includes Best Drama, Best First Time Director, and Best Actor and Director Award. Rose’s original screenplay The Woman is about a struggling art major college student who finds out that he was kidnapped at a young age and that his whole life and everything he’s been told is a lie. He comes to the conclusion to find who he really is and search for his family through trial and error. The film has been featured on many different streaming platforms, including Tubi TV, Xumo, Amazon Prime, OneHub TV, and many more. Tubi TV is The number one platform you can still stream The Woman on. The film has been played over 20,000 times and has been broadcast in over 55 countries since its release in March 2022.

Rose had a successful red carpet premiere on March 13, 2022, in Edmonds, Washington. She had a sold-out theater of 100 people and a beaming applause after the film. Many friends and family were in attendance as well as locals to the Edmonds area eager to support artists. Rose knew that she was bound to be in a career where she could be creative and outspoken. She says a psychic also told her that she should consider leaving her corporate America job, so that she can blossom her creative outlet. Only a couple of years later went by before she found her true calling: film directing. “I am a very passionate, extroverted, outspoken individual, who is welcoming, determined and driven”, Rose says regarding her film career. Rose has proven again and again on her film set that she creates a safe space, is very friendly, listens to her actors, and even takes advice on script changes or character personality traits from the actors themselves in order to create a healthy balance on the film set she runs. Everyone who has been on her film set says they would love to work with her on a future project again and loves her dynamic as a director and feels heard and respected.

Rose is looking forward to the future of her Rose Kreider Productions. She plans to branch out by offering her directing services as well as equipment rentals. Whether people want to bundle their rental and hire her as a director as well or just her equipment for their film sets. She is planning on creating a broader production company that involves all and wants to create a female run platform and make an everlasting stamp on the Seattle film industry. What Rose has in store next is something Seattle has never seen before: a documentary spotlighting individuals who have saved a life with a firearm. The title is Silent Citizen Heros, and it is in pre-production as Rose and her crew plan on filming in 2024. She hopes that everyone watches her documentary as it will be inspiring, non-biased, and educational. Not many documentaries come out of Seattle, so she’s very excited to be one of the few. She is also in preproduction for an Amazon book called Deadly Delivery which is a feature crime/thriller that will be filming in early 2024 as well as Wish You Well, a short comedy that will be released before the New Year’s!

The two films currently available to watch now include The Woman, a 60-minute drama feature film and A Room by the Road, a 9-minute crime/thriller short film that is about a robbery gone bad and the consequences that come with it, which was filmed in Kirkland Washington in May 2022. ARBTR is available now to watch on the free TV or phone app, Reveel! Rose was approached by a local screenplay writer for A Room by the Road and decided to turn this person’s idea into a film while adding her own flair to it also. Rose loves adding unexpended twists and turns in her films and plans on leaving it up to the audiences’ interpretation at the close of her movies.

Make sure to follow Rose Kreider’s journey on her social media pages:

Instagram @rosekreider

Facebook.com Rose Kreider

Rose also has a director’s reel and a trailer for her first film The Woman if you are interested in watching before you tune in on Tubi TV! She asks if there is interest or any questions about current or future films, to message her on social media.

We can’t wait to follow Rose Kreider’s film career!

Joshua Burgin Reflects on Israel’s Tech Economy

Published on September 7, 2023

When it comes to technology, Joshua Burgin knows what he’s talking about. From his experience developing software for Amazon to his work as the VP of Product and Strategy at cloud computing software provider VMware, Burgin has been in the technology game for a long time. Living in Seattle, he was one of the first employees at Amazon.

He has over two decades of experience developing technology businesses and consults with and advises startups around the world.

Burgin is also quite connected to his Jewish faith and is a big supporter of Israel’s technology economy. Although he has spent his career so far based in the United States, he has also spent many years as an advisor for Israeli-based technology startups and visiting the country with his family. He feels deeply connected to Israel and to his Jewish faith. In August 2023, he sat down with the Jerusalem Post to discuss Israel’s expanding technology scene and entrepreneurial culture.

Joshua Burgin Sits Down With The Jerusalem Post

The Jerusalem Post wanted to learn about Burgin’s take on Israel’s post-Covid tech economy. Burgin, who has traveled to Israel almost every six months for the past ten years, believes that even with some of the country’s internal conflict, its economy, especially in the technology sector, remains strong. With the country’s swift, effective response to the pandemic, Burgin said he saw no major slowdown in entrepreneurial expansion. He believes that Israeli tech companies continue to set the standard for innovation and problem-solving with their tenacious spirit. For example, he discussed his work with the web development platform Wix and the marketing analytics company AppsFlyer, both of which are seeing lots of growth of late. Burgin feels that the creativity and bold innovation of Israeli startups such as these reflect the “Israeli spirit.”

The publication was also interested in Joshua Burgin’s thoughts on the country’s sustainability practices and the extent to which the country is fostering a more eco-friendly world. Burgin noted that some Israeli companies are on the cutting edge of climate innovation. For instance, he discussed Watergen, which extracts water from the air to help provide clean drinking water in areas where it is scarce. He also praised the country’s sustainable approach to living, with its bike-friendly cities and green spaces. Burgin believes that it is Israel’s global business perspective that helps such companies thrive and continue to shatter expectations. Israeli companies seek to make their solutions and innovations accessible to global markets, which helps not only their economy but supports countries around the world in becoming greener.

Burgin’s Admiration for the Israeli Spirit

In addition to the global outlook, Burgin also emphasized his belief in the positive impact of Israel’s mandatory military service. He thinks that this service helps produce strong, mature leaders who are able to create innovative startups that address complex problems. In particular, he discussed intelligence Units 8200 and 81 as exceptional “breeding grounds” for technological intelligence. Avishai Abrahami, a co-founder of Wix, served in Unit 8200, Burgin pointed out, and many people refer to Israel as the “Startup Nation.” Burgin thinks that this reputation is in large part due to the famous compulsory military training and how it interacts with the culture’s strong, entrepreneurial spirit.

Burgin has lots of hope for the technological future of the “Startup Nation” and emphasized that the country’s impact on innovators around the world should not be overlooked. As Israel’s leading technology innovators look outward with their solutions, Burgin suggests that the rest of the world should look toward Israel, as its dedication to entrepreneurship is creating tech solutions that address all kinds of world challenges. The country’s resilience to adversity and tough times like the pandemic also demonstrate the power of perseverance when it comes to business and how perseverance can lead to innovative technological breakthroughs. Read his biography here.

About Joshua Burgin

Joshua Burgin began his tech career in the early 90s. His major in philosophy at Haverford College outside of Philadelphia may seem an odd start to what has become an extensive career, but combining his love for reflection and innovation with his love for technology allowed him to begin his career at a small start-up that sold books online. Though friends and family believed this company would never survive, Burgin believed in the other 99 individuals working for the company that would soon grow into the industry giant known as Amazon.

Even in the early 90s, Burgin knew that the challenges were only beginning. Thankfully, Amazon was starting in Seattle, where an endless supply of another international staple, coffee could accompany long nights of working. During these long nights, Burgin would be working on new innovations that would allow for enhanced purchasing for consumers while marveling that the rise of the internet was merely one short decade ago.

Eventually, Burgin would leave Amazon, albeit temporarily, and help a series of start-ups and other entrepreneurs chase their own tech dreams. He would help consult and grow these companies to build their own foundations. Eventually, he found his way into a new space, a small gaming organization by the name of Zynga. This company challenged the tech space again by helping to develop programs that could run not only on personal computers but also on handheld devices with the rise of apps.

Afterward, he found his way back to Amazon, where he worked with Amazon Web Services (AWS) in developing their cloud services. These services would soon help Seattle gain the nickname of Cloud City, not because it was featured in the latest Star Wars, but because it became home to the cloud services for tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Oracle. For eight years, Burgin worked on these projects, helping to build the foundations for what is now a part of everyday life for consumers, whether they be large corporations or a grandmother hoping to save unlimited numbers of pictures of her grandkids.

Now, as the Vice President of Product & Strategy at VMware, Burgin has again seen new growth in technology. His humility, however, will limit the credit he will take for changes in technology, as he refuses to take credit for industry innovations. However, throughout the history of his prestigious career, he has always remained at the cutting edge of the newest and greatest technological innovations by having a keen ability to look for what he calls inflection points. These are the moments when opportunity exists and breaking the next thing needs to happen.

Even as recently as the early 2000s, technology was a niche market that only appealed to those who could afford a computer, companies looking to take the next step in organization, and even governments looking to function more consistently. Now, Burgin recognizes that technology is more than that. This niche market has moved fast and changed what was once a privileged convenience into an everyday reliance for everyone. Projects that Burgin has been involved in have allowed technology not to run life but to integrate seamlessly into it.

For individuals like Burgin, the last 30 years have defined what a technological revolution can look like, and seeing it grow at every stage can still amaze even those who witnessed it firsthand. In a short period of time, technology has made extensive changes in science, business, healthcare, government, and nonprofits. In essence, technology has changed daily life.

Burgin may not have thought about what technology would look like today when sitting in philosophy class in college, but in a way, it is comforting to know that those charged with impacting everyday life are thinking about the fundamental truths of human life. Burgin’s presence in the world of tech means that designing the next great technological advancement is not always done with the bottom dollar in mind but rather with how to improve human life.

Follow on Substack and Twitter.

Superfine Seattle 2023 In Belltown 7/27/23 – 7/30/23

Published on July 21, 2023

Colorful, creative, and accessible, Superfine Art Fair returns to Seattle at the height of summer with 2000+ high quality artworks by 70 in-person artists, thoughtfully curated and approachably priced from $50 to $5000. After launching the fair back in 2015, entrepreneurs Alex Mitow and James Miille expanded the nationally recognized fair to Seattle in May 2022 as its seventh market and are excited to return to Belltown’s Block 41 from July 27-30.

The decision to position the fair in time with the Seattle Art Fair was a carefully considered one:

“A21 and Art Market Productions, the teams behind The Seattle Art Fair, have really pioneered the concept of a first-rate art fair in Seattle. As colleagues in the industry, we frequently cross paths and are thrilled to position our unique, artist-driven model in context of their world-class event this summer. We feel that the events together provide a vast survey of what the contemporary art world offers to Seattle residents and visitors at every stage of the art collecting journey,” says Superfine CEO Alex Mitow.

Superfine’s artist-to-buyer model creates a direct link between creator and collector in a professionally curated space that maintains the warm sense of hospitality the brand’s dynamic duo are famous for. Keeping with its democratic ideals, 100% of art sales go directly to the artist, and work is available at price points friendly to all collectors. As a result, the fair attracts a high-intent, art-buying audience, creating a sustainable opportunity for independent artists to sell art and build their collector network (over 75% of visitors report coming to the fair to buy new art). “It’s rare that someone visits one of our fairs and doesn’t walk out with something they’ve fallen in love with – at the very least a print, but often an original painting, sculpture, or limited photograph,” quips co-founder James Miille, also an exhibiting photographer whose own career spurred on the Superfine method. Artists are encouraged to show affordable prints and merchandise as a means of motivating collectors at all stages.

Superfine’s unique, artist-driven, people-focused approach has been widely recognized by national and global media outlets including Forbes, the Guardian, and the Advocate. Aside from Seattle, the fair hosts annual editions in Los Angeles, New York City, Washington DC, Miami, and Savannah, as well as biannual shows in San Francisco.

Fairgoers enjoy a long weekend of art at Superfine and across Seattle. Art installations like Holly Martz’s Prime Cuts will be displayed, live performances from musical guests like international saxophonist LE//ON and local musicians Chhaylee Young and Craig Suede, and collaborations with arts and culture organizations like Make.Shift and Northwest Film Forum are all on tap. Body painting artist Kree Arvanitas, whose solo show with Bonfire Gallery opens a day before the fair, is providing a live demonstration. On Saturday 7/29, Superfine will host a free Night Market featuring local food vendors such as MariMakan and Ms. Helen’s Soul Bistro. It all starts Thursday 7/27 with a Grand Opening sponsored by local non-profit Path with Art: a group that fosters the restoration of individuals, groups, and society from the effects of trauma through arts engagement and community building.

Superfine Seattle runs from 7/27-7/30 at Block 41 in Belltown. To get your tickets to the fair and discover all the programming, visit Superfine Seattle’s home page www.superfine.world/seattle-art-fair.

Seattle Newspaper for the People by the People

Admin has 356 articles published.