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REMINDER: Alki Car Free Day on May 19 in for an overhaul

Ty Swenson — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:16:43 +0000

Guy Olson, a five-year Alki Beach resident, has big plans for “Alki Car Free Day” on May 19 this year, including live bands, “The Bubble Man” and “West Seattle’s Largest Costumed Bicycle Parade.”

Car Free Day is part of the Seattle Department of Transportation’s Alki Summer Streets Event, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., sans vehicles.

Olson explains:

“On May 19th Alki Avenue in West Seattle will be closed to vehicle traffic for 'Alki Car Free Day.' In recent years interest has dwindled, and criticism has increased. Car Free Day is a wonderful occasion and could really be a great thing. So.... this year I have planned a few activities and I'm hoping you will be a part of it, or will help spread the word. I have 2 DJ's, one band and 'The Bubble Man' committed so far. My home has a large balcony in the heart of Alki Beach, overlooking the beach, in the middle of the nearby bars/restaurants, and the avenue. My plan is to have all the performers perform from the driveway directly next door and the bubble artist on my patio/deck/balcony.

“The biggest idea, which I will need the most help with is: ‘West Seattle's Largest Costumed Bicycle Parade.’ This parade will begin at 1:00pm on May 19, 2013. The parade will begin at 63rd and Alki Avenue continuing to Seacrest Park on Harbor Avenue and then looping back to El Chupacabra on Alki Avenue. This will be the ‘finish line’ and the place for our post-parade party. I'm the creator of "Seattle Green Bikes" and co-president of a bicycle club which recently completed a very successful beach cleanup. Please let me know of you need any more info. I'm hoping for a huge turnout and to make this ‘Alki Car Free Day’ a very memorable experience for everyone I possibly can.”

Anyone interested in helping spread the word or participate can learn more by emailing Olson atgmail.comgmail.com.

His bike club can also be found on Facebook.

An event page for the parade can be found here.

Olson is a founding member and co-president of the “Alki Beach Creeps Bicycle Club” (which is not nearly as creepy as it sounds. He explains: “My good friend Willis Mathiasen and I started the bicycle club amongst friends who I believe just wanted to ride together and be a part of something. We try to do fun things as a group. We are tired of people complaining about things, when in fact they can fix it. We are just a group of friends enjoying the beautiful city on our bikes.”)

“The importance of Car Free Day to me is the loss of vehicle noise,” Olson said. “In the warmer months the motorcycle noise is the most obnoxious. The revving of engines is unbelievable.”

Olson is hoping for a spectacular turnout for the parade portion of the day, and promises a worthwhile party at the end of the line.

SLIDESHOW: Track finals see some talented West Seattle Athletes move on to state

patr — Sun, 19 May 2013 01:24:28 +0000

The big winners of the day were the private schools, but the public schools performed well with local West Seattle talent moving on to the state finals next week in Tacoma.

West Seattle Highs DiAndre’ Jackson 23.05 time placed him third in the boys’ 200 meter dash. Chief Sealth’s Vidal Griffen III’s triple jump distance of 42’8” and Lorna Sailiai’s 1kg discus throw of 98’ landed the two Seahawks a solid two/three in their respective events and will send them to Tacoma as well.

The West Seattle Herald spoke with Vidal Griffen III briefly after his high jump event and while he missed on 6’ he was happy he maintained his personal best of 5’10”. Vidal finished with a 5th place height of 5’10”. Griffen III is excited about next year when he’ll be attending Whitworth University in hopes of playing basketball and running track.

Hats off to all of the competitors that participated at the SWAC. Over the last two weeks these athletes gave everything for their schools and themselves.

Below are the stats for the athletes that made it through Friday’s finals from Chief Sealth and West Seattle. (Taken from athletic.net)

Boys 200 meter dash
3. Diandre Jackson 23.06 West Seattle

Boys 400 meter dash
8. Diandre Jackson 52.91 West Seattle
10. Eliot Nichols 53.44 Chief Sealth

Boys 4x400 Relay
10. Thomas Kovacs
Michael Ahrens
Diandre Jackson
Samias Tsegay 3:43.30 West Seattle

Girls 4x400 Relay
10. Ameena Bouzekto
Brooke Sarver
Alison Nichols
Kenaia Neumann 5:07.73 Chief Sealth

Boys high Jump
5. Vidal Griffin III 5' 10.00 Chief Sealth

Girls Shot Put 4kg
7. Lorna Sailiai 31' 2.50 Chief Sealth
9. Lexi Loane 31' 2.50 West Seattle

Girls Discus 1 kg
3. Lorna Sailiai 98' 0.00 Chief Sealth

Boys Long Jump
7. Brennan Newquist 20' 1.00 West Seattle

Boys Triple Jump
2. Vidal Griffin III 42' 8.00 Chief Sealth
10. Brady Crane 39' 5.75 Chief Sealth

Girls long Jump
10. Natalie Fuller 15' 6.75 West Seattle

Girls Triple Jump
7. Lindsey Hage 32' 7.25 West Seattle
8. Natalie Fuller 32' 6.50 West Seattle

Out from the start, gay teen musician building a career

Ty Swenson — Sat, 18 May 2013 15:53:53 +0000

In the entertainment world, there is a long history of talented musicians and actors who happen to be gay keeping that part of their lives private, at least until they’ve “made it,” including Elton John, Ellen DeGeneres and Neil Patrick Harris. Most recently, as a first for professional sports in the U.S., active NBA player Jason Collins came out as homosexual, saying “I think, I know, in my personal life, I’m ready and I think the country is ready for supporting an openly gay basketball player.”

It’s 2013 now, with voters in state after state approving gay marriage as a sign of acceptance that some people are born homosexual, have a right to marry the person they love and share the benefits of such a union with heterosexual couples. Gay characters in film and television are no longer an anomaly, nor presented in caricature as a rule. Normalization is the trend for an increasing slice of the national population.

With the cultural sea change seemingly underway, Sarey Savy, a 17-year-old lifelong White Center resident born to entertain, believes the world is ready for an openly gay musician right from the start.

Savy makes genre-bending music that leans towards pop, and is just about to embark on an 11-show summer tour with hopes of making a career out of his vocal and composer talents. He’s released a mixtape, posted songs to YouTube, signed with a California record label, has a manager and is getting ready to perform for audiences the size of which he’s only imagined.

He writes lyrics from a personal perspective, and said staying true to a memory means not altering the facts. If he writes about a boyfriend, he won’t be swapping out his name for a female’s to make it more marketable.

“I don’t think music should have agenda, I don’t like it when people say, ‘He’s a gay artist, all of the songs are about gay people,’ … to me music is music,” Savy said. “It’s not about the person who wrote it and it’s not about how they identify themselves or how the song is crafted. It’s all about feeling what the person is saying, it’s about the lyrics. If you can relate to it, then it’s a good song. I don’t see why people should assign agenda or sexuality to a song.”

At the same time, Savy said people he might work with in the industry need to know how he is.

“That was a no-brainer for me, because if I am going to be working with people in this business they need to know who I am and accept my sexuality,” he said of being openly gay. “I am not going to get hired by someone and have to hide who I am … otherwise it’s just not going to work.”

Savy’s parents immigrated to Seattle from Cambodia shortly before he was born, and he has been surrounded by vocalists his entire life. His mom sings, his sisters sing and dance.

At age 7, Savy thought dance was his calling, but his older sister and mentor in the art of movement had a child and had to shift her focus to parenting instead of teaching her brother how to dance. Soon thereafter, he signed up for choir class at Mt. View Elementary and his teacher said one of the most important things: “You can sing.”

Savy turned his attention to becoming a musician, teaching himself how to belt out tunes with the fine tutelage of the women in his life and, over the years, learning how to compose and mix his own music.

He said he knew he was gay from an early age – around 10 – and slowly broke the news to his family, starting with his sisters. Speaking to that decision, Savy said, “It’s been fantastic, it’s actually better than I thought. Now, at 17, (my family) fully accepts me.”

While the most important people in Savy’s life support who he is, he said it has been more difficult finding acceptance in Cambodian circles of Seattle.

“Personally, as a gay Cambodian artist, a lot of people have talked down on me in my culture,” he said, finding most of the negative reactions posted online, behind the veil of internet anonymity.

Sarey Savy is booked to play 11 festivals this summer, including the Capitol Hill Pride and Seattle Pride Festivals. It’s the first time he’s branched out to a larger stage and while admitting he’s nervous, he knows it’s worth the sweat to attain his dream.

“I want (music) to be an income source for the rest of my life because I can’t see myself working retail. I can’t see myself being a janitor. Music is my life, but I also want time to find someone who means a lot to me,” he said. “When I found out that (gay marriage was) finally legalized (in Washington State), I found a new door was opened for me.”

You can find Sarey Savy online at http://about.me/sarey, including links to his mixtape and tour dates.

Sustainable West Seattle makes a Presto Garden in a day to benefit the White Center Food Bank

patr — Sun, 19 May 2013 02:33:20 +0000

Community means cooperation and that's what was in evidence May 18 as Sustainable West Seattle and some willing volunteers came together at Westcrest Park to create what they called a Presto Garden.

With donations of perennial vegetables from Village Green Nursery, compost – provided by Alki Bike and Board, Vegetable starts – from West Seattle Nursery and Seeds – provided by the Community Orchard of West Seattle the effort was to transform, in a single day a patch of weeds into a food producing garden.

The food produced by the garden will all go to the White Center Food Bank.

Getting a garden going is about more than just tilling the soil and waiting for the harvest so part of what the organizers wanted to include was an educational component. Learning how to garden naturally by tilling weeds back into the soil.

The method they utilized was a layering style that included the existing weed cover, some mulch and some topsoil. Soon enough, their efforts will pay off with a lot more fresh food for those who need it most.

SLIDESHOW: Alaska Airlines Combi lands at Sea-Tac with year's first Copper River salmon; Four celebrity chefs compete

steves — Sat, 18 May 2013 16:31:00 +0000

At 6:15 a.m., May 17, a Boeing 737-400 Alaska Cargo Combi arrived at Sea-Tac Airport with much fanfare to unload 24,000 pounds of recently-caught Copper River king and sockeye salmon via processors, Ocean Beauty, Trident, and Copper River seafoods.

After their three-hour flight, pilots Jeff Meyer, captain, and Peter Michels, first officer, appeared holding a "lucky" 42-pound salmon over their heads, then escorted the fish down the outside ladder to the tarmac, and across a red carpet for media and other onlookers. The fish was caught in the Copper River near Cordova, Alaska, just nine hours earlier. This event has become an annual Seattle ritual since 2010.

Under a large tent blocking a slight drizzle, four master chefs and their assistants received a portion of the booty by veteran slicer Nestor Guillermo for the cook-off competition, a key ingredient of the annual event. After a 30-minute rush in their makeshift, outdoor kitchens, the four dishes were served to four celebrity judges.

Chefs included the undefeated champ, Pat Donahue, Anthony’s Restaurants Exec. Chef, John Howie of Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar, Chris Bryant of Wildfin American Grill, and Master Sgt. Robert Shulman representing the 446th Airlift Wing (AW) of Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Howie told the West Seattle Herald, "I did this (cook-off) in 2010. They gave me a second shot. I tied, and in the second round I lost to Anthony's. I'm here to win it. I lived in West Seattle after I turned 21, and lived in a little house with a pool above the Fauntleroy Ferry Dock. It was a fun place."

"We are the three-time reigning champions going for the fourth," responded Donahue. "I scared John off last time. He's taken a couple of years to think this through. I know he's gunning for me. I've been with Anthonys 34 years. I started as a fry cook in Kirkland."

"A long time ago they made me a cook, 30 years ago in the military," said Sgt. Shulman. I drove up here from Portland yesterday."

Wildfin president, Attila Szabo looked over the shoulder of Chef Bryant.

"I oversee the business, but Chris doesn't let me into the kitchen," said Szabo. Bryant disagreed and said Szabo is a talented chef.

Judges were, with head shaved, former Mariner baseball great Jay Buhner, long-time Deadliest Catch Time Bandit deckhand Mike Fourtner, Chief Master Sgt. Tony Mack, 446th, JBLM, and Jeff Butler, Alaska Airlines VP of customer service.

While the judges were sampling, event celebrity host Tom Curley was filleting them for laughs. He skewered Butler for his tanned skin and asked if he spends a lot of time in Mexico on "business" using air quote marks with his fingers.

Curley was also quick to pounce playfully on Sgt. Mack, suggesting that the fix was in since both Sgts. Mack and Shuman are with the 446th. When he questioned Mack, Mack retorted wryly, "I'm eating!" and refused to answer.

Sgt. Shuman finished in second place, while Howie took the gold. It was pointed out that while there was just one winner, all four chefs were selected to compete for their high level of skills, to the delight of the judges.

Guests included 10 citizen airmen and women from the 446th AW and elite Alaska Airlines customers who donated 75,000 miles to the Fisher House Foundation’s Hero Miles Program. The programs takes donated miles and allows wounded service members undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center and their families to travel.

Westside-O-Rama West Seattle Entertainment Guide

patr — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 18:44:40 +0000

Admiral Theater
2343 California Ave. S.W.
938-3456
Movie tickets $5.50

On Tuesday, we celebrate Seniors (over 60) with one dollar off all day, $4.75.
Tickets available at http://www.farawayentertainment.com/admiral.html
http://www.farawayentertainment.com/admiral.html

The Historic Admiral Theater Movies & Showtimes

Escape from Planet Earth
‎1hr 29min‎ ‎PG‎ ‎Animation‎
‎4:00pm‎

The Call
‎1hr 35min‎ ‎R‎ Suspense‎
‎‎‎1:30‎ - ‎6:30pm‎

Identity Thief
‎1hr 51min‎ ‎R‎ Comedy‎
‎‎1:45‎ - ‎6:20‎ - ‎8:50pm‎

Trance
‎1hr 41min‎ ‎R‎ ‎Drama‎
‎‎3:50‎ - ‎8:30pm‎

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (R)
Saturday 4/6 @ Midnight

Alki Arts
2820 Alki Avenue SW
206.432.9936

Featuring art of ‘The New Northwest’
Join us the second Thursday of each month for the West Seattle Art Walk. Enjoy a featured artist, musician and of course wine & snacks!

ArtsWest
STARTING MAY 1 and running through MAY 25

33 Variations
Two parallel stories 200 years apart: a modern-day musicologist coming to terms with motherhood and a composer (Beethoven) coming to terms with his genius are confronted by their own mortality, and united by a shared obsession. Drama, memory and music combine to transport you from present-day New York to nineteenth-century Austria in this extraordinary American play about passion, parenthood and the moments of beauty that can transform a life. Christopher Zinovitch directs this five-time Tony Award nominated play. Tickets: 206-938-0339 or click here.

4711 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
206) 938-0339

Bamboo Bar and Grill
2806 Alki Ave. S.W.
937-3023
Happy Hour: Sunday through Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m., 10 p.m. to Midnight, Friday and Saturday, 3 to 6 p.m.
http://www.bamboobarandgrill.com/

West Seattle Wednesday's
Ladies Night Karaoke Thursday's
DJ and Dancing Friday Night
Dancing and DJ Saturday Night

BenBow Room (inside the Heartland Cafe)
4210 Southwest Admiral Way

Weekly drink and food specials Mon-Fri.
See website for details
Happy Hour
Mon-Thur 3-6pm
Late-Night Happy Hour
Mon-Thur & Sun 10pm-close.
Industry Night Sun-Mon
$1 off all drinks from 10pm until close (proof of restaurant industry required).

Live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays
Check our Calendar for Events

Company
9608 16th Ave. SW
Seattle, WA 98106
206-257-1162

Hours are:
Sunday-Thursday 4pm-Midnight
Friday-Saturday 4pm-2am

Happy Hour everyday from 4-7

Every Monday: Rat City Royals Chess Club, featuring DJ Plantkiller
Every Tuesday: $2 Tuesday. Selections from our menu offered for $2
First Wednesday: Baby Ketten Karaoke! Best Karaoke in town
Third Saturday: White Center Art Walk
Every Sunday: Sunday dinner special changes every week

Beveridge Place Pub
6413 California Ave. S.W.
932-9906
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m.
www.beveridgeplacepub.com/

The Bridge
4439 35th Ave. S.W.
206.402.4606
Food till 1am every day!

We are featuring an ongoing Build a Bridge Burger contest. The winner will receive their burger once a week while it is on our fresh sheet. The more outrageous the better!

Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-2am/ Saturday & Sunday 9am-2am

(Brunch menu offered until 3pm, lunch starts at 11am)
10% discount (on beverages) for Teachers & Military with ID
Happy Hour 7 days a week, 3pm-6pm food & drinks, 11pm-1am food only
Tuesday- Trivia with Bessy James, registration at 8pm, play begins at 8:30. Teams up to 10 players, $2 per person to play

Wednesday-Happy Hour drink prices all day long.
Saturday- Brunch at 9am-3pm, full menu at 11am to 1am
Sunday- Brunch at 9am-3pm, full menu at 11am to 1am
For the NFL season we have The Ticket for Sunday Funday.

Please see link: http://www.thebridgeseattle.com/events.html

The Cask
2350 California Ave. SW, Seattle, WA.
206-938-CASK (2275)

The Cask is West Seattle's old-world ale and wine house. Featuring regional craft beer on draft, world beers by the bottle, and a fantastic, rotating selection of wine by the glass and the bottle. Check out our new menu! Cheers!!

Celtic Swell
2722 Alki Ave. S.W.
932-7935
http://www.celticswell.com/

Mondays, Traditional Irish Music, 7:30 p.m., No cover
Tuesdays, Pub Trivia Quiz, 8:30 p.m., No admission fee
Thursdays, Live Music, 7 p.m.
Most Fridays and Saturdays, Live Music, 10 p.m.

C&P Coffee Co
5612 California Ave. S.W.
933-3125
http://www.candpcoffee.com/

Duwamish Longhouse

4705 W. Marginal Way SW
(206) 431-1582

Easy Street Records
4559 California Ave. S.W.
938-3279

Check the Web site for in-store events.

Elliott Bay Brewery and Pub
4720 California Ave. S.W.
932-8695
http://www.elliottbaybrewing.com/west_seattle/
Happy Hour: Everyday, 3 to 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. to close

Feedback Lounge6451 California Ave. s.w. 206-453-3259

Feedback Lounge Events Calendar

Heartland Cafe and Benbow Room
4210 Southwest Admiral Way, Suite A
Seattle, WA 98116

Kenyon Hall
7904 35th Avenue SW,
Seattle, WA 98126
206-937-3613

Balorico Dance at Kenyon Hall
7904 35th Ave SW Mondays 6:30pm
Ballroom & Latin dance lesson $15/ $25 duets
www.balorico.blogspot.com

Locöl Barley & Vine
7902 35th s.w.

NEW WEBSITE! Menus, music, and much more

5/19 pending

5/20 Lisa Dilk Original West Seattle musician, ranging from country, folk, pop and a little bit of rock.

5/21 Scott Lindenmuth http://www.scottlindenmuth.com/ Scott Lindenmuth is a guitarist with few boundaries, expanding his reputation as a cutting edge composer, creative and intuitive improviser, and master technician. A master of many styles Seattle guitarist Scott Lindenmuth is one of the few guitarists in the world today that can easily transition from jazz to electric blues, classical to rock, funk, and fusion displaying fluid technique and virtuosic ability in all genres.

5/26 Roo & the Few witty original songs and music of lead man Andy Forrest, mixed with covers of some old familiar favorites from Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and others.

5/27 Jargon
Funky jazz fusion!

5/28 Natalie Cline A Seattle girl with an amazing voice, amazing songs, and all around amazing atmosphere.

6/2 Paul Green I am a vocalist and play harmonicas as well on jazz standards and blues.

6/3 La Rosa Trio http://www.myspace.com/larosatrio La Rosa Trio, a premiere act in the style of latin jaz

6/4
Bluegrass and Brewskies - 3 guys and some good ole' bluegrass. Mandolin, banjo, and guitar, oh my! $1 off beer specials

6/9 Kimball Conant "Dr. Kimball & the Fugitives" plays a wide variety of jazz/r&b/blues standards, latin, calypso. We play as a trio with female vocalist Annie Eastwood.

6/10 Correo Aereo
latin inspired jazz and folk music. Harp, Maraccas, Violin, Drums, and more!

6/11 Jonathan Kimball
http://www.myspace.com/jonathankimballmusic It seems Jonathan Kimball can't help but make great music. With a background of collaborating in progressive rock, roots reggae, punk, and ska bands

6/16
Roo & the Few witty original songs and music of lead man Andy Forrest, mixed with covers of some old familiar favorites from Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and others.

6/17 Brians Jazz Trio. West Seattle boys laying it down with Jazz and more!

6/18

Scott Lindenmuth http://www.scottlindenmuth.com/ Scott Lindenmuth is a guitarist with few boundaries, expanding his reputation as a cutting edge composer, creative and intuitive improviser, and master technician. A master of many styles Seattle guitarist Scott Lindenmuth is one of the few guitarists in the world today that can easily transition from jazz to electric blues, classical to rock, funk, and fusion displaying fluid technique and virtuosic ability in all genres.

6/23 pending

6/24 pending

6/25 Greg Belisle-Chi, West Seattlites, preforming fun, original, Jazz / R&B / Rock

Check the site for news and events or our Facebook page.

OutWest Bar
5401 California Ave SW
OPEN: SUN, MON, TUES, WED, 4PM - 12AM
THURS, FRI & SAT 4PM - 2AM
HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY 4PM - 7PM
TRIVIA MONDAY
LESBIAN WEDNESDAY WITH KARAOKE
KAROKE SUNDAY

KARAOKE EVERY THURSDAY AT 9PM. Great sound system and huge library music. A really fun small venue!
Check the events calendar here: http://www.outwestbar.com/outwestbar.com/Calendar.html

Poggie Tavern
4717 California Avenue Southwest
Live music - Weekends

Salty's on Alki
206.937.1600
1936 Harbor Ave. s.w.

Music plays 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. with Friday and Saturday Late Night Happy Hour served 8:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Friday
8:00pm until 10:00pm
Catch Barbie Anaka with Steve Banks (drums) and Eugene Bien (keyboards) at one of Seattle's most prestigious water-view restaurants. Enjoy world-class cuisine, a cozy fireplace and soul soothing jazz to melt away the stresses. The outside deck is now open! Featuring late night happy hour, free parking and no cover.

Shadowland
4458 California Ave. s.w.
420-3817
Happy Hour: 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight.

http://shadowlandwest.com/events.html

Starlite Singer/Songwriter Showcase
Hosted by Patrick Smail. Seattle area songwriters sign up and perform their latest work. Tuesdays nights. 10pm. When we're live you should be able to listen in by clicking the following 'play' arrow.

Skylark Cafe and Club
3803 Delridge Way s.w.
935-2111

Weekly Events

Tuesdays
9pm Baby Ketten Karaoke

Wednesdays
7pm Trivia
9pm Fully Backlined Open Mic (21+)

---and---
Weekly Trivia 7pm to 9pm: 4 rounds and short bonus round. $3 per team member. 1st place wins half the entry fees with bonus round chance to win ALL the cash. (If not won, the pot will grow from week to week.) Prizes for 2nd and 3rd place. More details at skylarkcafe.com.
Skylark Cafe Live Music and Events Calendar

Talarico's
4718 California Ave. S.W.
937-3463

Happy Hour: Daily from 4 p.m. to 6 pm and 11 pm to 1 am.
Open from 11 to 2 am Saturday and Sunday
New late night happy hour 11pm to 1am seven days a week
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays (2.50 jello shots Thursdays)
Karaoke- Sing your heart out from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
same specials on those days
Wednesdays
Trivia- $2 entry per person, starts at 8:30 p.m.New Belgiuim Trivia night featuring $2.50 New Belgium Pints

Join Talarico's Email club and get a free slice of pizza! Come in and ask us about it!

Saturdays
DJ Topcat spinning, 10 p.m.

Check with Talarico's Events Calendar for any changes

A Terrible Beauty Irish Pub
4752 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
(206) 453-4066
An authentic Irish Pub. Amid the crowded byways of cloned chains, A Terrible Beauty follows its own path, with an unparalleled commitment to authenticity & atmosphere, a gourmet, affordable menu and 30 imported and local beers on tap.

Saturday Live Jazz Brunch 8-3

Saturday's Prime Rib Dinner Special

This Month
Sunday Live Jazz Brunch 8-3
Sunday 8:00am

Open Mic Night at A Terrible Beauty...
Monday 8:00pm

Tug Inn
2216 SW Orchard Street

Tug Inn events calendar

Tuscan Tea Room
4521 California Ave SW
206 906-9914

Sunday Jazz Brunch
with Loren & Dune
on Piano and Bass

Piano Friday and Saturday nights and Duo on Select Nights.

Tug Inn
In West Seattle on Delridge & Orchard (across from Home Depot).
No cover, free parking.
Tug Inn Events Calendar
Tug Inn on Facebook

Daily Events

Sunday :
Karaoke w/ Christopher Michaels
Tuesday :
Taco Tuesday
(2 Tacos for $2)
Wednesday :
Karaoke w/
Christopher Michaels
Friday :
DJ Music w/ DJ Will-E-3

VFW Hall
Ecstatic Dance
3601 SW Alaska St. Seattle, 98126) on Thursdays, 7:30-9:15, $10.

West 5
4539 California Ave. S.W.
935-1966

Flat Earth Society at West 5
Featuring a line-up of some luminous Seattle record junkies spinning the rarest and fairest vinyl from deep within their respective LP collections. Rare soul, garage, dirty-funk, J Pop, jazz and a smattering of world-stage psychidelia will be spinning at the popular lounge in the heart of West Seattle. Mondays at 9:00 p.m.

Your Party, West 5 Style!
Plan to have your next party here. Call 206-WE5-1966

______________________________________________________

Please let us know if your West Seattle or White Center establishment has live music or entertainment or if you have corrections or additions to these listings and we will add it to Westside-O-Rama.

Email westseattle@robinsonnews.com.

Chief Sealth HS & Denny Middle School march in Ballard Syttende Mai parade

steves — Sat, 18 May 2013 17:06:05 +0000

Friday, Ballard celebrated its annual Norwegian Constitution Day event, the official National Day of Norway, celebrated on May 17, called "Syttende Mai" (17th of May). In addition to Nordic culture, West Seattle represented in the parade as Denny Middle School and Chief Sealth High School performed to the delight of thousands of onlookers.

According to the Ballard website highlighting the festival, Ballard first celebrated Syttende Mai in 1901.

Ciscoe Morris visits Village Green Perennial Nursery

patr — Sun, 19 May 2013 06:05:45 +0000

On Sunday, May 19th noted northwest gardening expert Ciscoe Morris will be visiting the Village Green Perennial Nursery at 10223 26th Avenue SW. The event starts at 1:00pm.

He'll provide his favorite tips for growing healthy spring plants. Ciscoe is the author of a bestselling gardening book, and is host of “Gardening with Ciscoe” on 97.3 FM Kiro radio and a weekly TV show on KING 5. He leads garden tours around the world, and he still somehow finds time to tend his own garden
here in Seattle.

Also visiting will be Debra Prinzing presenting "Slow Flowers"

Prinzing is a Seattle and Los Angeles-based outdoor living expert and will sign copies of and talk about her latest book, Slow Flowers: Four Seasons of Locally Grown Bouquets from the Garden, Meadow and Farm.

She will also create bouquets from materials found around the nursery, demonstrating how to craft beautiful arrangements from local materials such as regional bountiesof cut flowers, twigs, foliage, greenhouse plants, dried pods, and more.

Bouquets will be given away to lucky raffle winners.

SLIDESHOW: Sold out Taste of West Seattle satisfied a ton of tastebuds

patr — Fri, 17 May 2013 18:55:40 +0000

The annual Taste of West Seattle benefit event was a sell out again as hundreds packed into the Hall at Fauntleroy to sample flavors from 48 restaurants and others around the area. The admission price all went to help the West Seattle Helpline charity.

Monies raised (which we will provide in an update once they have been totaled) will provide the following for West Seattle families facing one-time emergencies:

Rent & Utilities
Clothing at the Clothesline
Metro bus tickets
Back to school supplies
Referrals to other agencies

It's not too late to support the West Seattle Helpline.

You can donate directly.

$25 will buy bus tickets for 55 people for job interviews and medical appointments
$50 will supplement a family’s utility payment during a time of need
$100 will keep a family’s water on while they look for work
$250 will keep the power on for two families as they recover from a financial setback
$500 will insure that several families won’t face eviction while looking for employment

How can you donate?
Send checks to: West Seattle Helpline, PO Box 16738 Seattle, WA 98116.
They also accept credit card donations by clicking HERE.

NOTE: On the photos...We apologize for not taking a photo of EVERYONE! It was simply too busy to get each table free to take a photo in the time we had.

KC Ferry District: Spirit of Kingston begins West Seattle-downtown Seattle service Saturday

Ty Swenson — Fri, 17 May 2013 20:40:07 +0000

Information from King County Ferry Service:

Spirit of Kingston begins West Seattle-downtown Seattle service Saturday
Newest addition to King County water taxi fleet will provide more reliable service

The King County Ferry District’s new vessel, Spirit of Kingston, will make her inaugural trip to West Seattle from downtown Seattle’s Pier 50 at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 18.

The 65-foot catamaran recently joined the King County Ferry District’s fleet of water taxis after being acquired at no cost through an agreement with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The King County Ferry District was able to acquire the FTA funded vessel after its former operator, Port of Kingston, discontinued service to Seattle last fall.

In addition to improved service reliability, the acquisition will help the district reduce operational costs. The district estimates it will save more than $425,000 on lease and rental expenses over the next five years.

“Water taxi riders will benefit from increased reliability as the Kingston sets sail. This is another example of the District’s efforts to work efficiently and provide dependable service for the thousands of riders who rely on the water taxi to get to work, school or play,” said Joe McDermott, chair of the King County Ferry District.

Since acquiring the eight-year old vessel earlier this year, the Ferry District’s Marine Division has been performing crew training and modifying the boarding area to accommodate passenger loading. The vessel also recently underwent a complete U.S. Coast Guard inspection.

The vessel carries up to 147 passengers and will replace the Rachel Marie, an older leased vessel that has been providing service between West Seattle’s Seacrest Park and the downtown Seattle waterfront since April, 2010. The Rachel Marie will now serve as a back-up when other vessels are out of service for maintenance or repairs. A third boat, the Melissa Ann, provides weekday service between Vashon Island and downtown Seattle.

The district contracts with the King County Department of Transportation’s Marine Division to provide passenger-only ferry service. To learn more about the Water Taxi and schedule information visit King County’s website: www.kingcounty.gov/watertaxi

What can we expect walking into a pot shop for the first time?

Ty Swenson — Fri, 17 May 2013 20:57:04 +0000

On May 16 the Washington State Liquor Control Board released their initial draft of rules for I-502 implementation, the framework for legalization of recreational marijuana. Much of the information is reserved for those interested in becoming part of the system – from growing to processing to retailing, but the rules also give end-users an idea of what they might see upon walking into a retail marijuana shop for the first time (which is expected to happen around the turn into 2014.)

From seed to purchase, there is a sea of regulations on record keeping, labeling, security and precise guidelines on the growth, quality testing, processing and transport of marijuana before it reaches a retail outlet. For those interested in reading about the system in depth, they are available online at https://lcb.box.com/initial-draft-rules. A good summary is also available from Seattle Times reporter Bob Young, found here.

The WSLCB is taking recommendations on the draft rules until June 10 and is expected to release finalized rules later that month.

Brian Smith with the WSLCB clarified that the rules for shops pertain to retail only operations, i.e. there is nothing in the language providing a pathway for existing medical marijuana facilities to operate as a retail outlet for the general 21-and-over public as well. Smith said the Washington Legislature will be addressing whether medical/retail outlets can coexist in one brick and mortar location, although a definitive timeline is unknown.

Signs, signs, everywhere are signs (and cameras)
Upon walking up to your first retail pot shop, you’ll probably notice three things: a store sign, regulatory signs and cameras.

In the draft, retail signage is limited to a single sign of limited size (1600 square inches), cannot be “false or misleading … promote over consumption … represent the use of marijuana (as having) curative or therapeutic effects ... depict a child or under 21 person consuming …” or have any objects that might appeal to children, like toys or cartoony character.

Retail shops, along with growing and processing facilities are required to have alarm systems active on all windows and doors, and security cameras keeping an eye on all cash registers along with indoor and outdoor vantage points of all doors. Cameras need to record 24-hours a day and licensees are required to keep a record of the past 45 days.

You’ll see signs stating, “Persons under twenty-one years of age not permitted on these premises” and another stating it is prohibited to open a package or marijuana or marijuana-infused product in public. While the Seattle Police Department is currently in a “just a warning” phase for those consuming marijuana in public, it’s expected there will eventually be legal framework to get a misdemeanor similar to public consumption of alcohol.

Product information and warnings galore
Upon walking inside, available to you will be an array of dried, smokeable marijuana and marijuana-infused foods and liquids. At this time, the WSLCB rules will not allow store to sell marijuana concentrates, items like hash and hash oil, that pack a far more potent punch than standard “buds” (aka, the flower of a marijuana plant that people smoke).

All products need to be stored behind a counter “to ensure a customer does not have direct access …,” so there won’t be any direct perusing of the sativa section or “Cleanup on aisle indica” intercom chatter.

Every product needs to be packaged inside non-toxic materials that protect it from contamination, and every retail customer has the right to request the name of the accredited third party testing lab and results of their quality assurance testing for any given product..

Nothing can be labeled organic unless the Washington State Department of Agriculture deems it as such.

Smokeable marijuana will be required to have a slew of warnings attached, such as “Warning: Smoking may be hazardous to your health,” “Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breastfeeding,” and “For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of the reach of children."

Also required in the labeling is full disclosure of any pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc. used to create that particular plant you are considering for purchase.

Marijuana-infused products are required to have labeling making it abundantly clear this cookie or that brownie is not of your Betty Crocker box mix variety, including “This product is infused with marijuana or active compounds of marijuana.” Any solvents or chemicals used in the creation of those products need to be listed as well, and they will have allergen information, recommended serving size, list of all ingredients beyond cannabis and a “best by” date.

On top of all that, each container or package needs to identify the grower, processer and seller, a lot number and date of harvest, net weight, and the concentration of all chemical components found in the product, from the well-known psychoactive THC to lesser known components.

Products need to have the Washington State icon (a pot leaf centered inside an outline of the state) and two final warnings: “May be habit forming” and “This product is unlawful outside of Washington State.”

While I-502 allows out-of-staters over 21 to purchase marijuana, they are not legally allowed to take it home with them.

After processing all that information, it will finally be time to make your decision and purchase. While retailers are required to keep extensive records of the ebb and flow of product into and out of their shop and any transactions made, they are not required to track anything about the end-user/retail purchaser.

In a single purchase, customers can walk out with up to one ounce of useable (smokeable) marijuana, 16 ounces of marijuana-infused products (generally food) in solid form, and 72 ounces of marijuana-infused liquids.

While we don’t know yet where retail shops will be allowed (WSLCB has only said they will determine the number of allowable shops per county, and a lottery will pick those lucky enough to apply for a license) in King County, but the general guidelines are they cannot be within 1000 feet (in a straight line) from an elementary or secondary school, playground, recreation center, child care center, public park, public transit center, library or any all-ages game arcade.

Recommendations on the rules can be sent to the following by June 10:
Email at: rules@liq.wa.gov
Fax: 360-664-9689
Mail:
Rules Coordinator
Liquor Control Board
P.O. Box 43080
Olympia, WA 98504-3080

UPDATE: Sustainable West Seattle creating 'Presto Garden' at Westcrest Park; Volunteers needed May 18

patr — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:30:26 +0000

Sustainable West Seattle is holding a special event on May 18 to create what they call a "Presto Garden" at Westcrest P-Patch located at 8th Ave. SW and SW Henderson. The event will run from 1 to 5pm.

Previous Successful Gardening with Nature forums have resulted in greater knowledge that will be applied to the creation of this Permaculture community oriented garden. It's output will go directly to the White Center Foodbank.
Update 1:30pm May 16

Volunteers are needed for planting the Presto Garden and refreshments will be provided. Contact Sustainable West Seattle if you have any questions at info@sustainablewestseattle.org.

Where:
Westcrest Park P-Patch Community Garden at 9000 8th Ave SW at Henderson - follow the road to the top of the hill and park by the playground. The P-Patch is next to the play area.
When:
Saturday May 18th from 1-5 pm
The following donations are being made to help complete the garden in a single day:

• Perennial vegetables – provided by Village Green Nursery

• Compost – provided by Alki Bike and Board

• Vegetable starts – provided by West Seattle Nursery

• Seeds – provided by Community Orchard of West Seattle

• Gardening tools and equipment – provided by the Mobile Tool Library, West Seattle Tool Library

Original Post
In a post on the Sustainable West Seattle website they write:

"The Presto Garden fulfills many of Sustainable West Seattle’s mission objectives, including:

Social Justice – providing healthy food for everyone in the community goes a long way toward equity;
Building Community – bringing together volunteers, non-profits and businesses to create a garden that produces organic vegetables, fruits and herbs for the White Center Food Bank;
Sustainability – growing food locally for our community is a sustainable activity.
Come join the fun and learn how to do organic gardens for yourself. There will be refreshments at the Saturday preparation and planting party.

The following donations are being made to help complete the garden in a single day:

Perrennial vegetables – provided by Village Green Nursery;
Compost – provided by Alki Bike and Board;
Vegetable starts – provided by West Seattle Nursery;
Seeds – provided by Community Orchard of West Seattle;
Gardening tools and equipment – provided by the Mobile Tool Library, West Seattle Tool Library.

Harold J. Scott, 92, retired firefighter, antique car collector, long-time West Seattle resident, passes away

steves — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:14:11 +0000

Harold J. Scott, 92, a retired Seattle firefighter and long-time West Seattle resident, passed away Friday, May 10. He had pneumonia.

Many in our area have met Mr. Scott at the West Seattle Junction Car Show, and would stop and chat with him about his bright red 1921 Buick Roadster, built the year he was born, and his 1963 Buick Wildcat. He is pictured in our 2012 slideshow of the event here.

The West Seattle Herald also ran a story about Harold's wife, Jaqueline Ann Standley Scott, when she passed away in 2010. She was the granddaughter of Joseph Edward “Daddy” Standley, who, in 1899, opened what would become Ye Olde Curiosity Shop on the downtown waterfront. He also created Totem Place, his curiosity-crammed residence high on a bluff by Hamilton Viewpoint Park.

Mr. Scott is survived by son, John Standley Scott of San Francisco, CA, Christina Scott of Vashon, WA, Teresa Scott Tenge of Seattle and Joanne Scott of Seattle.

Christina Scott writes, "My dad was born in Othello, WA in 1921. Harold's father grew up in a log cabin outside of Lander WY but moved to Spokane area as a young man. Harold was stationed in Seattle at the end of World War II, where he met Jacqueline Standley. They were married soon after and lived in West Seattle ever since. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, The SeaTac Chapter of the Horseless Carriage Club and the Vintage Car Club of Canada. Harold remained active till the day before he died. He was known for his genial personality and had many friends of all ages. He enjoyed parties, the Seattle Parks Dept Lifelong Recreation program and his weekly breakfast clubs. He shall be missed by many."

Erich Hoyt: Adventures with Orcas in the North Pacific — From A1 Stubbs to Iceberg, the White Russian Bull ; Speaker coming June 8

patr — Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:07 +0000

Erich Hoyt, author of Orca: The Whale Called Killer will make a very special appearance at the Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California Ave. SW on Saturday, June 8 sponsored by The Whale Trail.

Hoyt’s first killer whale expedition to Johnstone Strait sailed from Victoria, BC in June 1973, 40 years ago this June. He then spent parts of the next 10 summers with orcas.

Hoyt went on to study and work on conservation projects related to other whales, dolphins, sharks, deep sea creatures, ants and social insects, working in Costa Rica, Japan, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Argentina, Chile and other countries.

In 1999 he co-founded the Far East Russia Orca Project (FEROP) to find out more about orca pods targeted for aquarium captures and to get Russian students involved in science and conservation of killer whales in Russian waters. Now in its 15th year, FEROP has recorded the Russian pods and photo-IDed some 1500 orcas off Kamchatka and in the Commander Islands — including three white orcas found so far in the study areas.

This the fifth in a series of Orca Talks hosted by The Whale Trail. The event also features updates from Robin Lindsay (Seal Sitters), and Diver Laura James (tox-ick.org and Puget Soundkeeper Alliance), and photography from Judy Lane.

About the Speaker
Erich Hoyt is a noted marine conservationist, whale researcher, lecturer and author of more than 20 books including Orca: The Whale Called Killer, The Earth Dwellers, and Marine Protected Areas for Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises, the latter recently named as an "Outstanding Academic Title" by the journal Choice.

He is an authority on marine protected areas (MPAs) and sanctuaries, and is currently Research Fellow with WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, leading its Global Critical Habitat MPA Program. He also co-directs the Far East Russia Orca Project in Kamchatka and the Russian Cetacean Habitat Project in the Commander Islands.

He is as an appointed member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission's Cetacean Specialist Group and the World Commission on Protected Areas, and co-chairs the new IUCN Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force. He is a member of the International Committee for Marine Mammal Protected Areas and has helped organize and program its world conferences in Hawaii (2009), Martinique (2011) and Australia (to be 2014).

A former Vannevar Bush Fellow in the Public Understanding of Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and twice James Thurber Writer-in-Residence at The Thurber House, Hoyt was awarded the Mandy McMath Conservation Award in April this year by the European Cetacean Society at its annual conference for his body of work including books, papers and work on marine conservation. He is a Canadian-US dual citizen who has lived in Scotland since 1989.

About The Whale Trail
The Whale Trail (www.thewhaletrail.org) is a series of sites around the region where the public may view orcas and other marine mammals from shore. Our mission is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of whales and our marine environment by establishing a network of viewing sites along the whales' trails through the Salish Sea and the coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest.

Our goals are to increase awareness that our marine waters are home to orcas and other species; connect visitors to orcas, other marine wildlife and their habitat; inspire stewardship and build community; promote land-based whale watching. Our over-arching goal is to ensure the southern resident orcas do not go extinct.

The Whale Trail provides simple, powerful, and long-lasting reminders to visitors and residents alike that orcas and other whales live in our waters. Through our current sites and signs, including two on every Washington State ferry, we reach more than 22 million people each year. Our near-term goals are to add a site in every coastal county in Washington, and around Vancouver Island, throughout the orcas' range. Together, we will turn the tide for the whales!

The Whale Trail is led by a core team of partners including NOAA Fisheries, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Seattle Aquarium, the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, and the Whale Museum. Donna Sandstrom is the Founder and Executive Director. The Whale Trail is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, registered in Washington State.

Where: The Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California Ave SW
When: Saturday June 8, 7 - 9 (doors open 6:0)
Cost: $5 suggested donation, kids free.
--Tickets available at brownpapertickets.com
Contact: donna@thewhaletrail.org, 206.919.5397

Mayor presents two possible solutions for Nickelsville homeless camp

Ty Swenson — Thu, 16 May 2013 23:54:40 +0000

The residents of Nickelsville are awaiting word from the city on what will happen with their encampment, located in the Highland Park neighborhood of West Seattle.

The homeless camp moved onto city-owned public land in 2011 and their presence has not been well-received by some living near the 7116 W. Marginal Way S.W location. To that end, the Highland Park Action Committee (HPAC, a community group) asked Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn to move the camp out by June of this year.

In a letter to Seattle City Council President Sally Clark, McGinn wrote of the situation: “Signs of fatique are obvious and growing. Highland Park residents have identified an increasing number of concerns. A neighboring landowner is preparing a lawsuit, citing decreased land value. Questions have been raised recently about Nickelsville’s ability to govern itself and protect the health and safety of its residents. The current encampment situation is not sustainable.”

With HPAC and the tenants of Nickelsville asking for clear direction from the city, and no religious organization stepping in to host a Nickelsville camp elsewhere (as they have done for other encampments), the Mayor’s letter lays out two potential paths.

First option (and according to McGinn’s staff his preferred resolution) is to facilitate Food Lifeline’s interest in purchasing the parcel of land where Nickelsville resides to build a new facility (Food Lifeline is a non-profit food distribution agency).

“I think that we all agree that Food Lifeline’s proposed development has many humanitarian and economic advantages to Seattle and our region,” McGinn wrote, “But support for the Food Lifeline project means we must also find a way to facilitate the removal of everyone living in the Nickelsville encampment.”

To find a new home, he said, “I believe we need to discuss the merits of providing additional location options beyond those sponsored by religious entities for a properly run interim temporary encampment. To that end, I support Councilmember Licata’s proposed legislation to permit transitional encampments that meet certain criteria for up to a year at non-church owned sites …”

In addition to finding a new site, McGinn wrote “I will also transmit a supplemental budget request to Council to provide additional housing options and services” for Nickelsville residents and other members of the homeless population.

The second option is to “retain the West Marginal Way property to provide space for a properly run encampment to remain on a semi-permanent basis. If we follow this course we will need to first identify problems with drainage and pests. We will also need to provide access to running water and other basic amenities, and establish a relationship with a non-profit provider who can facilitate services on the site.”

McGinn wrote that the first step in the second option is to “conduct an environmental assessment of the property … Accordingly, I am offering an alternative piece of legislation that would provide funding for this initial environmental assessment.”

The City Council will ultimately need to vote on a preferred option.

“I look forward to an open dialogue with you about how to serve a local homeless population that is larger than our shelter system can accommodate and thus includes people who have few options but to continue to sleep outside,” McGinn wrote.

To read more about the Nickelsville Camp, please see our prior coverage here and here.

Friday is Bike to Work Day!

Ty Swenson — Fri, 17 May 2013 03:05:34 +0000

Friday, May 17, is Bike to Work Day in King County and beyond. The Seattle Department of Transportation has a blog post to explain the event (essentially encouraging commuters to try riding to work for the first time) along with tips on how to pull it off (showers, work clothes and other considerations), be safe, and how to pick a route.

Their post is found here.

If you hit the road on a bike May 17, please be safe!

SFD: How to deal with pets when a fire breaks out

Ty Swenson — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:38:13 +0000

The following information is from the Seattle Fire Department:

Fire and your Pet
For many of us, our pets are members of our family and the loss of a pet in a fire can be devastating. It is important to remember that you may have less than a minute or two after the smoke alarm sounds to get out of the house. Because many pets will hide out of fear, taking time to search the house for them can mean the difference between life or death. Leaving pet rescue to firefighters can help keep your family safe from fire’s harm.

A Firefighter’s Duty
A firefighter’s priorities are to rescue you and your family, and to minimize the damage to your home and property. However, firefighters will do their best to find and rescue any animals found in the home. The Fire Department is equipped with the pet-sized oxygen masks and tanks needed to help resuscitate your pet, if necessary. If you are unable to take your pet out with you, the best thing you can do is to let the first firefighter on the scene know that there is a family pet inside. Keep a picture of your pet with you, show the firefighter and tell him or her your pet’s name.

What Can You Do?
When you test your smoke alarm once a month, see how your pet reacts to the sound of the smoke alarm. Do they stay close to you or do they run and hide? This will tell you how they might respond in an actual emergency when the smoke alarm is activated.

If your pet is within reach and you can secure them quickly and without putting yourself at risk, try to cage or put a leash on your pet and evacuate together. If your pet is resisting or trying to hide, here are a few things you can do to make rescuing your pet easier:

Large animals
If possible, put your pet in a room and shut the door to keep more smoke from entering the room and help prevent smoke inhalation. Get out of the house and tell the first firefighter on the scene where your animal is located. Some large animals that are very scared might attack the firefighter or make it harder for them to be rescued – if you can crate these animals in a less smoky environment, do so.

Small animals
Many pets will run and hide under beds or in closets. If you know where they’ve gone, shut the door to that room and tell the first firefighter on the scene where your animal is located. If your pet carrier is accessible, and you can grab your pet easily, place him or her inside and get out of the house. If your car keys are accessible and your car is parked out of harm’s way, your car can be used to secure pets until you can inform the first firefighter on scene.

Practicing home fire drills – not only with your family but with your pet – can also ensure quickly getting to safety. Practice this from every part of your home, and know two ways out from each room.

Medical Emergencies
If 911 has been called because of a medical emergency, secure your pet in a crate or closed off room. This will help prevent your pet from getting too stressed, getting lost, or attacking emergency crew. If you can, call someone to come take care of your pet.

For More Information
Contact:
Seattle Fire Department
fireinfo@seattle.gov
www.seattle.gov/fire

West Seattle Soccer Club to host free UEFA Champion’s League final viewing at Admiral Theater

Ty Swenson — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:30:16 +0000

Watching two German powerhouse soccer clubs (Bayern vs. Dortmund) battle it out for the esteemed UEFA Champion title with hundreds of like-minded fans in the comfort of a movie theater with a massive screen (while donating food items for charity) ... sound like a good idea?

The West Seattle Soccer Club is sponsoring just such an experience on May 25.

Here are the details from WSSC:

West Seattle, WA - The West Seattle Soccer Club (WSSC) is excited to announce that we will be sponsoring the showing of the final match of the 2013 UEFA Champion's League at the Admiral Twin Theater on Saturday, May 25th. Admission is FREE for all of our soccer families and their invited guests. Children under 12 must be accompanied by and adult.

Please bring a kid-friendly food item to benefit the West Seattle Food Bank and help us end hunger in our community!

Pre-game will begin at 11:00 am, with the championship match between the German powerhouses Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern Munich starting at 11:45am.

To make it easier to bring your kids, we will be showing "Kicking and Screaming", a soccer-themed comedy like "The Bad News Bears" in the adjacent theater. The Admiral Twin Theater will offer concessions at a reduced rate and the WSSC will raffle off some great soccer prizes.

Admission is LIMITED, so please arrive early to assure your seat and join the fun. The doors will open at 10:30 am and close when capacity is reached or the match begins.

The WSSC is a 100% volunteer-run organization. Please consider partnering with us to serve the kids and families in our community through soccer. We will have information concerning upcoming events and needs available in the lobby with volunteers available to answer your questions and help you get connected.

Join your WSSC friends at the Admiral Twin Theater on Saturday, May 25th for a family-friendly ticket to see one of the biggest professional soccer matches of the year!

The UEFA Champions League is an annual continental club football (soccer) competition organized by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) in1955 for the top football clubs in Europe. It is one of the most celebrated tournaments in the world and the most prestigious club competition in European football.

The West Seattle Soccer Club (WSSC) is the largest youth sports league in West Seattle and has been in existence since 1968. Every year the WSSC hosts a spring league with over 1,400 players, a fall league with over 1,800 players, and multiple coach and player clinics. The WSSC's goal is to create the best possible sports experience for its members.

Gray Whale spotted off Lincoln Park

patr — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:08:54 +0000

West Seattle photographer (and Herald contributor) Steve Shelton whose images as a photographer have appeared in magazines and newspapers worldwide was out walking his dog in Lincoln Park on May 15 and as luck would have it, only had his iPhone when he spotted an amazing sight around 7pm. Others saw it too. Here's his story.

By Steve Shelton

Last time I checked there was no volcanic activity between Colman Pool and Lowman Beach. And underwater geysers have yet to be reported in the 40+ years I've been in this neighborhood.

So what was I to think when a spout of water some 30 feet high erupts 50 yards off shore accompanied by the sound of gushing water? Then as fast as the sound appeared it was silenced as the source slid back into the sea.

I was alarmed, but exhilarated at the same time. Something very special just happened. But I caught only a glimpse.

This was no seal. No otter. And no little fish. But so close to the water's edge. I was thinking, "What on earth?"

I stood on a park bench to get a better view of the wave pattern now coming my way. Like independent pools within a greater Puget Sound, I could see water being displaced at a predictable rate by an unknown current just feet below the water's surface.

The pools were getting bigger as they got closer; the rip of the current became more pronounced.

Then, a defining moment. The unmistakable black back, rhythmically, effortlessly--and with unearthly grace-- breaks the water's surface just in front of me followed by a dorsal fin and magnificent tale. Hollywood couldn't make a scene so serene, so real.

The tale dipped down just in front of Colman Pool and again, the pools of displaced water appeared. I jumped off the bench and ran past the pool along the black asphalt hoping to see that tale just one more time. I was immune to the misting rain.

The grey whale didn't disappoint.

As if to say goodbye, in another 100 yards, the back again rolled out of the water followed by the enormous tale lifting skyward for perhaps two seconds--and was gone.

My iPhone was pathetically inadequate to document the scene. But I thought if I didn't at least try a few seconds of video nobody would believe me.

And just hours before I was cursing the rain as I cut the grass wondering why I live in this place.

'Bertha' The not so boring machine

patr — Wed, 15 May 2013 22:23:12 +0000

With art viewers walking the streets of Pioneer Square on a sunny Thursday evening 20 or so people gathered in the projects public relations office, called Milepost 31, to listen to Chris Bambridge, tunnel specialist and consultant for WSDOT, explain how this incredible machine being assemble on Seattle’ waterfront will do its’ job.

Built in Japan the tunnel boring machine, referred to as a TBM, is the largest of its type in the world. You might think okay largest in the world means what? To give you a sense of how massive this machine is the cutting head is 57 feet in diameter. Orient the head to its vertical position and it’s almost the height of a six story building.

393 individual cutting “tools” on the massive head can chew through almost anything it will encounter. Rocks up to four feet in diameter are no problem for Bertha. I wanted to know what the cutting force that Bertha is capable of but the answer is more complicated than I thought. KaDeena Yerkan, manager of Communications and Public Involvement gave me this answer, “It is difficult to relate the installed thrust force to the force being applied to each cutter. The cutter head has a designed total propulsion force of 392,000kN which is an 88,125,104 pound force! It is not as simple as dividing the cutter force by the cutter number to yield the answer that you requested. The issue is complicated and is affected by geometry and also the way in which the machine is intended to be operated. Bertha only needs to operate at a small fraction of its installed total thrust capability to effectively excavate the soil”.

To put this in layman's terms it’s extremely powerful.

Behind the business end of Bertha is the muck extraction device, a large corkscrew auger that funnels the muck onto a conveyer system that will take the muck (muck is the term for the dirt that’s removed) off to barges waiting at terminal 46. (see video) The muck will then be hauled off to an abandoned quarry near Port Ludlow, the same location that was used for the Brightwater project. The next several sections are called “trailers”. They include giant the hydraulic arms, 56 of them, that make minute adjustments to direct the course of the machine. There is the control room where one man guides Bertha on its course. Other trailers house tool rooms, the electric motors that provide the power for the TBM, and other related facilities. Because the TBM works 24 hours a day there are also bathrooms and a mess facility. All in all Bertha is the length of a football field. 326 feet to be exact.

Guiding the TBM is done by lasers that will create waypoints for the operators to follow using a laser as a reference as it moves forward through the earth. Projected from a fixed point behind the machine, the laser is received by a guidance system at the front of the machine that is precisely calibrated to the tunnel’s predetermined path. The guidance system is referenced by the machine’s operator to ensure the machine remains on course. The operator steers the machine with the hydraulic arms by making minute adjustments with each push forward. The contractor operating the TBM believes they can hit the finish point within six inches. This is quite amazing when you think about the lack of GPS or normal surveying techniques.

Tsunamis and earthquakes are of some concern for us in Puget Sound since much of downtown is barely above water level and built on fill. I asked Chad Schuster of Communications and Public Involvement Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program, What measures have been to counter these possibilities?

“The Seattle Department of Transportation is designing the Elliott Bay seawall replacement to protect waterfront facilities, such as the SR 99 tunnel, against sea level rise and moderate storm surges. In the event of a tsunami, it is highly unlikely that a wave would overtop the seawall and reach the tunnel. WSDOT and the City of Seattle found this could only happen during a very high tide - a combination of events estimated to occur only once every 6,000 to 24,000 years. Washington’s early warning system and the tunnel’s real-time traffic technology would allow us to restrict traffic from entering the tunnel during a tsunami. If necessary, drains and pump systems would help to quickly remove any water from the tunnel”.

In reference to the issue of earthquakes Chad went on to say “Geotechnical and structural engineers agree that tunnels can be designed as one of the safest places to be during an earthquake. The SR 99 tunnel is being designed to withstand an earthquake that only happens every 2,500 years on average (in the range of a 9.0 on the Richter scale) without collapsing."

The TBM will exit the bore near 6th & Harrison to be disassembled at the end of the project. Contrary to the common belief that the TBM will be left abandoned underground much of the machine will be hauled away as scrap however a significant portion will be salvaged for resale in a used market for boring equipment.
If the project proceeds as planned the TBM and its components will be lowered into the launch pit in late June or early July. Updates on the progress of the tunnel project will be forthcoming.

For those of you that want an up close look at the project there are tours available to the public. Go to www.milepost31.org. You can also follow Bertha's progress on the WSDOT site here http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/Viaduct/About/FollowBertha

Wisteria overtakes West Seattle home

patr — Thu, 16 May 2013 05:51:54 +0000

Leighann Davis, owner of Wild Rose Antiques in the West Seattle Junction alerted us to the Wisteria now in full bloom that annually takes over nearly her entire Admiral District Home. The plant and blossoms are so large and numerous that it has made the house look like something from Lord of the Rings.

She responded to some of our questions about the massive floral display:

"The wisteria is very special. The house is over one hundred years old and I believe the wisteria is getting close to one hundred also as I've seen old photos of it. Flowering time depends on the amount of rain we have but I would say around one month.

When the flowers start falling you live, eat and sleep with them because every time you open a door they come flying in. You have to keep it pruned or it will literally take over the house and only a crazy person would fertilize it.

Some years are more stunning than others and I would say it's a little skimpy on blossoms this year but as you said it is still magnificent."

You can see a larger version of the whole display in the attached file, linked above.

GiveBig event has plenty of local options; Donors could win a golden ticket

patr — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:57:55 +0000

The GiveBIG event today, May 15, has a number of West Seattle and White Center based non-profit organizations who hope to get some financial assistance from donors. All credit card donations made through their website until midnight will be "stretched" thanks to $850,000 in support for GiveBIG from the Seattle Foundation and GiveBIG sponsors.

Donors will be chosen at random throughout the day to have additional funds given to the charity that they chose. These are worth $1,000 with additional prizes awarded for both the organization and the donor. The organizations can win roundtrip airline tickets courtesy of Alaska Airlines and donors can win $100 Starbucks gift cards.

You can dine out tonight and help too. White Center 2013 Dine Out participants include: Zippy's Giant Burgers, Proletariat Pizza, Meanders and Company. These establishments will be donating a portion of their proceeds to the White Center Foodbank via GiveBIG.

Café Delia (inside Proletariat) and DubSea Coffee (in Greenbridge) will be hosting donation stations so you can donate easily.

Here's a list of locally based non profit organizations that are part of GiveBIG:

West Seattle Helpline
The West Seattle Helpline’s primary focus is assisting the working poor of our community. The West Seattle Helpline assists these families and individuals by providing financial aid, a referral system designed to align demonstrated and verified needs with available resources, clothing, school supplies for children, and bus passes. The goal is to minimize the negative impact of unexpected circumstances on families and help them meet basic needs. Our office is located in the Highpoint area of West Seattle, one of the highest need neighborhoods in King County.

Mission Statement
The West Seattle Helpline is a non-profit social service agency dedicated to helping members of the West Seattle community. We provide information, referrals, and limited financial assistance to help working families in need. We strive toward a strong community of "neighbors helping neighbors."

Make a credit card donation right now.

West Seattle Food Bank
The West Seattle Food Bank has been serving this community since 1981 when local volunteers started distributing food to families in need. In 1989 the agency was incorporated and in 1999 changed its name to the West Seattle Food Bank. The agency works to eliminate the root causes of hunger by partnering with a range of community members. In addition to providing quality food, we invite other agencies to provide services and information to our clients to improve their access to the Basic Food Program, local health clinics, other basic social services, employment opportunities and more.

Mission Statement
The West Seattle Food Bank is committed to providing food security and community connections to our neighbors in need.
We envision a strong and connected community in which all people have access to safe and nutritious food and the essential necessities fo living.

Make a credit card donation right now.

West Seattle Junction Association
The Junction Association is an organization of Junction businesses that aims to develop, promote and participate in activities that enhance a healthy social, economic and environmental climate for the West Seattle Junction community.

Mission Statement
The Junction Association is an organization of Junction businesses that aims to develop, promote and participate in activities that enhance a healthy social, economic and environmental climate for the West Seattle Junction community.

Make a credit card donation right now.

Twelfth Night Productions
Twelfth Night Productions (TNP) has been providing performing arts experiences to the Seattle area for more than 20 years. Each year, TNP offers volunteer opportunities for over 200 community members, both on stage and off. We encourage artists, professional educators and other nonprofit organizations to collaborate with us on our high-quality productions, bringing people of diverse backgrounds together (including those not typically exposed to the performing arts) and providing much needed artistic and cultural experiences for our West Seattle and White Center communities.

Mission Statement
Twelfth Night Productions (TNP) is dedicated to building an inclusive, strong, artistically sound West Seattle community through the performing arts. The TNP ensemble provides a home for local artists to develop and practice their craft, an environment for students of all ages to learn about the performing arts, and a place for community members to participate in the arts in a variety of ways.

Make a credit card donation right now

Southwest Seattle Historical Society
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society, founded in 1984, is dedicated to education, preservation and advocacy for the Duwamish peninsula, including West Seattle and White Center. In 1995, a 1904 log building built as a carriage house was purchased by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society, restored and converted into its storefront, the Birthplace of Seattle Log House Museum. The museum has been open since November 13, 1997, the 146th anniversary of the landing of the Alki party on AIki’s beach. The landscaping is all done with native planting. A granite and marble donor circle adorns the courtyard in tribute to the many people and organizations helping to make this heritage project an award-winning facility and community treasure.

Mission Statement
To promote heritage within our local community through education, preservation and advocacy.

Make a credit card donation right now.

ArtsWest
ArtsWest is a non-profit, multi-disciplinary arts organization with programs in theater, visual art, and education. Since November 1988, ArtsWest has presented over 1,100 theater productions and art exhibitions. ArtsWest’s mission is outward-facing, one that measures success by response and not by the simple production of art. Requiring conversation from the production of art constructs a perfect confluence of tolerance, understanding, and intellectual growth.

Mission Statement
ArtsWest produces artistic events that are so fiercely compelling that they require conversation, improve the imagination, and promote cultural vibrancy as a core value for the communities of Seattle.

Make a credit card donation right now

Seattle Chinese Garden Society
SCG is a cultural and horticultural education center that enhances the environment and expands the city's open park spaces. Perched on the ridge of the Delridge Neighborhood in West Seattle, the Garden and its mission complement the goals of the Delridge Neighborhood Development Association: inclusiveness, access to art, providing a gathering place, and expanding and preserving open space for its diverse population, including low and moderate income residents. The Garden draws visitors from all over Seattle and the region, plus visitors from abroad.

Mission Statement
The Seattle Chinese Garden Society (SCG) is creating a traditional Chinese garden as a "coming together space" for all people and organizations interested in China or in horticulture and the integration of nature and culture. The Garden also enhances appreciation for the contributions to our region by our citizens of Chinese and Asian heritage.

Make a credit card donation right now

Museum of Flight
The independent, non-profit Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world, attracting 513,391 visitors in 2012 to experience exhibits, participate in educational and public programs. In 2012, 151,423 K-12 students and teachers were impacted through 1,909 educational programs making it one of the largest educational institutions in the state and delivering on the heart of its mission. Through support of numeroous corporate and community foundations the Museum aggressively pursues opportunities to provide financial assistance to underserved individuals and schools to create learning opportunities for all young people regardless of their resources.

Mission Statement
The Museum's mission is to acquire, preserve, and exhibit historically significant air and space artifacts, which provide a foundation for scholarly research, and lifelong learning programs that inspire an interest in and understanding of science, technology, and the humanities with the vision of being the foremost educational air and space museum in the world.

Make a credit card donation right now.

Southwest Youth and Family Services
SWYFS makes a difference in the lives of children, youth, and families, individually and communitywide. Youth and families increase their self efficacy and self-sufficiency, and improve healthy relationships among their family members, their peers and friends, and among communities. As a result, community violence is reduced, more children are ready for school, immigrants and refugees get the practical help they need, and youth and families improve their mental health and general well-being.

Mission Statement
Southwest Youth and Family Services works to create communities in SW Seattle and King County in which culturally and economically diverse families, youth and children thrive and prosper. We promote healthy family functioning, early childhood learning, student academic success; and youth development.

Make a credit card donation right now.

Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association
DNDA takes a holistic approach to community development, tailored to meet the current challenges of our community, while honoring and celebrating our rich environment and collective cultures. Like many Community Development organizations, the preservation and development of affordable housing and community facilities has been a core strategy. Increasingly, DNDA has invested in emerging strategies focused on building community through arts and culture, and on organizing the community to address health disparities.

Mission Statement
Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association is an integrated community agency whose mission is to engage residents, businesses, and institutions in building a thriving Delridge.

Make a credit card donation right now.

The Whale Trail
The Whale Trail is a series of sites around the northwest to view orcas and other marine mammals from shore.

Our signs and programs reach a broad and diverse public. By connecting human impacts to orca survival, we motivate people to become engaged.

Mission Statement
Our mission is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of whales and our marine environment by establishing a network of viewing sites along the whales’ trails through Puget Sound and the coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest.

Make a credit card donation right now.

White Center Food Bank
White Center Emergency Food Association, dba White Center Food Bank (WCFB) provides emergency food assistance in West Seattle, White Center and Burien. In 2012 WCFB served 64,148 individuals / 20,476 families;95% of our families qualify as very-low income (less than 30% of median income for King County, WA). White Center Food Bank serves a highly diverse client base: 28% Caucasian, 25.3% Hispanic, 16.8% Asian, 3% American Indian, 1% Pacific Islander, 10.7% African American, 15.2% Multi-Racial. Over 36% of our clients are under age 18 while 14.6% are over age 55. Last year we saw a steep increase in seniors and children in need of food.

Mission Statement
The mission of the White Center Food Bank is to minimize hunger, while nourishing community, nurturing self-reliance and embracing our rich cultural diversity.

Make a credit card donation right now.

Navos
Navos ensures that vulnerable people in our community have access to quality health care. Every year Navos, and our 18 Navos Consortium partners, help 9000 children and adults with mental illness. Services are targeted to those in poverty. Navos is expanding facilities and investing in innovative programs so we can provide people with the best opportunity for success. In 2010 Navos merged with Ruth Dykeman Children's Center and July, 2012, Navos merged with Seattle Children's Home. Pooling our resources together enabled us to become stronger and more effective in extending our services to children and families in King County.

With Navos’ help, people draw upon their own strengths and work to recover from the challenges of their psychiatric symptoms.

Mission Statement
The mission of Navos is to improve the quality of life of people vulnerable to mental illness by providing a broad continuum of care.

Make a credit card donation right now.

WestSide Baby
hrough partnerships with more than 100 established social service agencies in King County, WestSide Baby provides the material items many families desperately need.

Mission Statement
WestSide Baby, in partnership with our community, provides essentials to local children in need by collecting and distributing diapers, clothes, toys, books and equipment.

Make a credit card donation right now.

Seattle Police share their car prowl know-how

Ty Swenson — Wed, 15 May 2013 23:26:36 +0000

Fresh from the desk of West Seattle's Crime Prevention Coordinator Mark Solomon, the May edition of his Seattle Police Newsletter is all about car prowls:

Dear Community Friends,

Car Prowls
Recently many of our neighborhoods have experienced a high degree of car prowls. This is a concern from Arbor Heights to Mount Baker, Rainier Beach to Alki, and all points in between. Car prowl is a regional problem, not just a neighborhood problem or a City of Seattle problem.
It’s frustrating in so many ways. There’s the loss of property. We often think items should be safe in our vehicles; we shouldn’t have to hide our stuff. In an ideal world, that would be true. Unfortunately, there are those who, given the opportunity, will steal from others. If there is something to take, they’ll take it. There’s the damage - if any - done to the vehicle. I say “if any” because many times, the thieves don’t have to break a window to gain entry to the car; the car is left unlocked.

These crimes are so prevalent, happen very quickly with little chance for immediate police response - if the crime is reported - and often occur in late night/early morning hours when there is little chance of the thieves being seen by neighbors.

One frustration for police is that many of these car prowls are not reported. As a result, police may not have an accurate picture of the degree of the problem. I know about many of these incidents because I get your emails where you discus among yourselves what’s been happening in your neighborhoods. Our officers hear 2nd-3rd hand about the incidents because of what neighbors say after the fact. However, the actual number of reported incidents, those that were called in to 911 or reported on-line, do not reflect the level of activity that you are relaying to us. It’s not enough to mention in passing that a car was broken into. That crime needs to be reported. Don’t just email each other or me; make an official report to 911 or on-line.

I’ve heard from neighbors that they didn’t report the car prowl because it didn’t appear that anything was taken, even though it was obvious the car had been gone through. I’ve also heard from neighbors that there was no damage to the car, or the car was left unlocked, and therefore the car prowl wasn’t reported. Just because it doesn’t appear that something was taken or that no physical damage was done does not mean that no crime was committed. Please, report them. If you don’t tell us, we won’t know.

Reporting
To report a car prowl in progress, call 911 immediately. It is a crime in progress and that has a higher priority of response than a crime that occurred some time ago. Answer the call takers questions to the best of your ability.
To report a car prowl that occurred sometime in the past;
1) Call 911, tell the call taker up front that it is not an emergency or a crime in progress, but that you want to report a car prowl.
2) Using our on-line reporting system: http://www.seattle.gov/police/report/default.htm

In either case, whether you call it in or do it on-line, the information will be entered and a record of the incident will be generated, and you will still receive an incident number for that occurrence, even without an officer showing up to take a report.

The Stuff
A bag containing a laptop. A case with photographic lenses. A passport. A Handbag containing cash, credit and debit cards, driver’s license and social security card. A purse with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, Galaxy 2 phone, wallet, $3000 cash. An iPod Nano, miscellaneous power tools, keys to managed rental properties. Backpacks with personal items/effects, purse with wallet, credit/debit cards, ID. A pair of Nike Jordan 5’s.
These are some of the items that have been taken from vehicles in the past week. All these vehicles were parked on the street, often overnight and often in front of a residence. Aside from thoughts of disbelief (like who leaves $3000 in cash in a purse on the floor of a car parked on the street overnight?), the obvious question for me is why are we leaving our valuables in our vehicles when we could take them inside the home that’s less than 30 feet away?

There are ways to avoid being a victim of car prowl. The most effective step is to not leave anything of value in an unattended vehicle. If you are out running errands and are going to be making multiple stops, don’t leave valuables in the interior of the vehicle where they can be seen. Place them in the trunk when you get them before proceeding to your next stop. If you want to enjoy one our local parks, don’t leave valuables inside the passenger compartment; put them in the trunk. However, don’t wait until you get to the park to put your valuables in the trunk; you’ve just shown everyone in the area you’ve put valuables in the trunk. Put the items in the trunk before you get to the park and leave the vehicle.

Recent Car Prowl Arrest
There is a bit of good news. Early morning on Saturday May 11th, officers arrested three adult males for Investigation of Car Prowl. Once caught, they were found to have stolen property from multiple vehicles. They admitted to trying car doors, and upon finding an unlocked door, went through the vehicles and helped themselves. They admitted to prowling at about 15 vehicles that night. The good news here is that we were able to catch and arrest three thieves who caused a lot of neighbors a lot of grief. This would not have been possible if not for the neighbor who heard a noise coming from the street, and who upon checking it out saw someone sitting in his neighbor’s vehicle who he knew was not his neighbor. These arrests would not have been possible without that neighbor’s vigilance and the 911 call that was made. We’d like to acknowledge the officers who responded to that call and made these arrests: Officers, A. Belgarde, D. D’ambrosio, T. Persun, and D. Ward.

We’ve said many times, car prowl, liked most crime, is a crime of opportunity; if you remove or reduce the opportunity, you remove and reduce the crime. Police can respond to a crime once it has occurred. Police can work to deter crime, but can’t do so if the crime goes unreported. It is through your reporting that police are able to respond and act. Police will do what can be done. However, it is you as neighbors that prevent crime. It is neighbors taking the step to not leave valuables in the unattended vehicle, but instead take them inside the home or workplace with them. It is neighbors knowing each other to extent that they know the person they see sitting in a neighbor’s car doesn’t belong there, and they are willing to say something. You can’t have community without communication.

Thank you for all you do for your neighborhoods. Until next time, Take Care and Stay Safe!

Mark Solomon, Crime Prevention Coordinator, mark.solomon@seattle.gov, 206.386.9766

Double Festival Celebrates Treasures of Chinese Horticulture Saturday & Sunday, May 18-19

patr — Thu, 16 May 2013 06:11:43 +0000

— 10 am to 4 pm / FREE Admission

The Seattle Chinese Garden is presenting a double festival May 18 and 19 focused on two prized plants in Chinese horticulture.

They will celebrate the first blossoms on more than 200 tree peonies recently donated by China’s “peony capital” — the City of Luoyang, where the treasured plants have been cultivated for 1,500 years. The garden has nineteen varieties of Luoyang peonies, ranking it as one of the most diverse collections in any public garden on the West Coast.

The double festival features plant displays, a raffle for Luoyang peony plants, bamboo sales, horticultural talks and tips for planting and caring for bamboo and peonies, educational and cultural displays, artist demonstrations, and more. On display and, possibly for sale, will be blossoms of 1,000 cut peony stems shipped from Luoyang.

A complete schedule of all talks and demonstrations will be available by May 16 at www.seattlechinesgarden.org

You can download the current schedule at the link above.

Cosponsors:
American Bamboo Society, Northwest Chapter
American Peony Arts and Culture Association

Location: The Seattle Chinese Garden is at South Seattle Community College in West Seattle, 6000 16th Avenue SW. Free parking is available at the SSCC North Entrance lot. More detailed driving directions are at: seattlechinesegarden.org

Garden Office: 206-934-5219 / info@seattlechinsegarden.org