MICHAEL SWAN: STONEGATE UPDATE >>>

Christmas brings out the best in most. Of course, one must look beyond the miserable behavior of friends, family and those who feel entitled - at least from time to time. And when the going gets rough, with regards to coping, there is always booze, the great equalizer, the social and familial lubricant.

Stonegate pizzeria and nightclub houses a rum bar in its downstairs lounge. That works for me on two levels. I associate rum with tropical locales, which is where I wish I were right now. Second, this time of year I crave the warm, buttery comfort of hot buttered rum. Stonegate has a large collection of rum - including expensive, sipping rums.

Also of note at Stonegate is its new music schedule commanded by veteran booking agent Michelle Amiotte. Check out their weekly schedule:

Mondays: karaoke with Colin;
Tuesdays: acoustic jams;
Wednesdays: Xbox 360 loaded with the Rock Band game;
Thursdays: Billy Stoops hosts a jam night.

Live bands will fill the Friday and Saturday night slots. This Saturday, Atomic Outlaws, Top Heavy Crush and Cold December rock the rum bottles beginning at 9 p.m. The cover will be $7.

Amiotte also has comedian Gabriel Rutledge booked Dec. 26 for an 8 p.m. show. Admission is $10 advance or $15 at the door.  You know you'll need some laughs and a bunch of rum after Christmas.

[Stonegate, 5419 S. Tacoma, Way, Tacoma, 253.473.2255]

NO LINK: I think Stonegate's Web site has been hacked.