Announcements 297 results

West Seattle’s most unusual costume party this month! Southwest Seattle Historical Society gala October 22

October 8, 2011 3:22 am
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Why dress as a vampire or Star Wars character when you can bring history to life? Costumes are welcomed and encouraged at the big annual Southwest Seattle Historical Society fundraiser – here’s an updated announcement:

Please join us for the SW Seattle Historical Society Annual Gala taking place at the Salty’s on Alki Event Room, featuring a special Salty’s Brunch, Silent Auction, Raffle, Dessert Dash, and whimsical entertainment.

Each table will represent one decade of the 16 that have passed since The Denny, Low, Boren, and Terry Party arrived at Alki Beach, “The Birthplace of Seattle.” Costumes are encouraged and will be enjoyed by all.

Date: Saturday October 22nd, 2011
Time: 11:30 am to 2:30p m
Place: Salty’s on Alki
Tickets $65-adults. $25-12 and under. Children under 4, free

Please RSVP to (206) 938-5293

Free civic-skills-training class on October 13th in West Seattle

October 6, 2011 8:54 pm
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Want to learn how to not just speak to those in power, but to get heard? A free civic-skills-training class is coming up next week in West Seattle. Here’s the official announcement:

For all those wanting make their voice heard in government and impact laws passed in Washington State Legislature and the Seattle City Council, Seattle Free School, in partnership with Knowledge As Power, will provide a free hour-long civic skills training across Seattle. The High Point class is on Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 4:30pm at the High Point Branch Library. The address is 3411 SW Raymond St. Seattle, WA 98126. The training will be given by Sarah Schacht, the executive director of Knowledge As Power, a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on helping citizens engage more effectively in the lawmaking process. Register here if you’re interested in attending. The class is free and open to the public.

With the ever-increasing amount of communication legislators have to sort through, it can be difficult to get your voice heard. Knowledge As Power provides effective techniques and free technology for civic involvement so that the citizens of Seattle can become more informed, engaged, and effective at any level of government. After an overview of how the legislative process works, the nonpartisan training is focused on providing techniques to effectively communicate and influence the decisions of lawmakers. Reel Grrls, a Seattle nonprofit shares their experience: “Sarah helped our youth learn concrete ways to get their voices heard in government. Her training was practical, engaging and energizing — our youth left the workshop feeling like they can make a difference.” Register here if you’re interested.

Some techniques covered in the class include crafting effective advocacy emails, engaging in follow-up communications, and using simple technology tools to track legislation and make messages personalized and effective.

Knowledge As Power is a 501c3 nonpartisan organization established in Seattle with the goal of helping citizens become politically engaged, empowering them to influence the lawmaking process.

Register for the civic skills class online, through Seattle Free School.

West Seattle Community Orchestras’ rehearsal plan for tonight

September 27, 2011 12:14 pm
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West Seattle Community Orchestras’ rehearsal plans for tonight (Tuesday, September 27) is out:

Debut Orchestra, 5:30 to 6:45PM
At Fauntleroy Church, 9140 California Ave. SW (shared facility with the YMCA)
You may park in the parking lot off of California Ave.
Look for WSCO signs!
Face the church, walk up the stairs (to your right)
Enter the building at the door marked “Church Office/YMCA”
Look for signs from there – we will rehearse in the Narthex

Intermediate/Symphonette Orchestra, 7:00 to 8:15PM
At Fauntleroy Church, 9140 California Ave. SW (shared facility with the YMCA)
You may park in the parking lot off of California Ave.
Look for WSCO signs!
Face the church, walk up the stairs (to your right)
Enter the building at the door marked “Church Office/YMCA”
Look for signs from there – we will rehearse in the Narthex

Symphony Orchestra, 7:00 to 8:45 PM
At The Hall at Fauntleroy, 9131 California Ave. SW, Vashon Room
Park in the lot behind (west of) the building, accessible from SW Director Street
Walk up the long ramp; the Vashon Room is at the lower entrance to the building.
Look for WSCO signs

Photography workshop at the Seattle Chinese Garden in West Seattle

September 8, 2011 11:44 pm
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Just announced:

WEEKEND WORKSHOP & MIXED-MEDIA SHOW
For all visual artists at the Seattle Chinese Garden
With Ray Pfortner, Educator & Photographer

Improve your camera and composition skills – no matter what your final medium – by photographing the Garden with exclusive early morning and evening access. Learn fromin-class and online critiques. Determine how to select, price and prepare your work for a juried, mixed-media exhibition.

For all visual artists with any camera and any level of experience, whether making photographs for artist’s reference to render later in watercolor, acrylics and woodcuts or for framing.

The workshop takes place over two weekends this fall:

Friday, Sept 30, 6:30-8:30pm, Sundays, Oct 2 &16, 7am-6pm
Tuition: $220 ($200 for Garden members) Materials: $20

Space is limited to 16. To register, contact the Garden at 206-934-5219 or info@seattlechinesegarden.org

For more information about the workshop: raypfortner@gmail.com

Free Tai Chi class series started at High Point

August 23, 2011 3:21 am
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 |   Announcements

We received a note from High Point resident Wendy Hughes-Jelen (green Realtor and of the dog-finding-electrified-street-light fame), that she received a grant from the High Point Neighborhood Association to hire Lao-Shi Caylen Storm (Alki beach tai chi) to offer a class free of charge to High Point residents – and they are opening the doors to others who might like to participate, also for free, on a space allowed basis (not a problem so far).

They’ve been meeting outdoors but also have access to class space inside Neighborhood House for when it rains (like it did Monday night). She describes the class as “Tai Chi 099”, the so-basic level of tai chi instruction that they haven’t really made it to Tai Chi 101 yet.

Here is the announcement running on the Events page for Monday nights…

MONDAYS at 7 pm Tao Jin: Foundations of a Tai Chi Lifestyle
A free class at High Point, 7 pm, outdoors on the Plaza (Commons Park Amphitheater) or indoors when wet at Neighborhood House (6400 Sylvan Way SW). Those attending the class so far have no previous experience so are getting lots of explanation with their practice – if you’ve always been curious about tai chi but felt intimidated, this is the group for you.

The class was made possible at no charge through a grant from the High Point Neighborhood Association. The community brought in Lao-Shi Caylen Storm, a longtime martial arts instructor currently teaching for The Wushu/Tai-chi Center on California Ave. SW, (and also known for Sunday morning tai chi on the beach on Alki). Storm introduces basic concepts and movements of Tai Chi, as well as information on diet, mind-set, tools to facilitate a healthy lifestyle based on Tai Chi philosophy, energy regeneration, and the motivation in making positive life changes.

Questions? Contact: caylen_storm@yahoo.com

New Yoga Class Series Starts at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse

An email from Nicole at Blooming Wild Yoga announces a brand new yoga series starting up at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse that is intended to be an ongoing situation…

I wanted to let you know that yoga classes are starting at the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse Community Center next week.

There are two series:

Mornings: 9:15 – 10:15 am, Thursdays, a seven week series running September 1 to October 13 – $105 for entire series

Evenings: 5:30 – 6:30 pm, Mondays, a six week series running August 29 to October 10 (no class 9/5, Labor Day) – $90 for entire series

Register by sending email to Nicole@bloomingwildyoga.com
This will be the first in an on-going series of yoga classes to serve the community!

Thanks!
Nicole

“Root to Bloom”
www.bloomingwildyoga.com

High Point fundraiser next month to save lives in Somalia

August 18, 2011 12:20 am
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 |   Announcements

The generosity of West Seattleites has meant success for so many fundraisers. One coming up next month asks you to open your heart and pocketbook for people in crisis on the other side of the world – many with families that have fled to the U.S. and are living in our community. Here’s why High Point residents are planning a fundraiser September 9th:

Historically, Somalia was a nation with a socialist dictatorship government that could provide for its people. With power comes thirst for more power and in 1991, tribes wanting their turn at leading the country ousted the Somali government led by Siad Barre. In the ensuing Civil War; thousands of people, including children, the elderly, and mothers died at the hands of brutal militiamen. Thousands of Somalis walked and hitchhiked for weeks and months to find freedom, to find water and basic necessities, thousands dying in that journey for survival.

After 19 years of insecurity, and a weak transitional government, famine in Somalia has now destroyed the lives of nearly 12,000,000 people in the Horn of Africa. After years of drought, the crisis has now hit a tipping point. Famine has been officially declared in five regions of Somalia. The United Nations expects the famine to spread across all regions within two months. The famine is the result of crop failure, livestock death, and prices in local markets that are too high for most people to buy what is needed to feed their families. In addition, a weak government battling a militia group called Al-Shabab has created one of the worst humanitarian crises of our lifetime.

United States officials and aid agencies reported that the drought and now famine has taken the lives of 29,000 children under the age of five. We have heard countless stories, seen unforgettable images, and the situation worsens. In Somalia, children are starving to death before their mother’s eyes as they trek to Somalia’s capital Mogadishu or refugee camps. Without any time to grieve, a mother of five walked to save her only surviving child, racing against time only to die at the refugee camp.

In these tough economic times, we are all strapped for cash and have families to feed. But at the end of the day, it is up to us to do something because children and innocent victims are suffering. High Point residents are hosting a fundraising event to make a difference. In an effort to provide support to World Vision, residents are planning to raise $20,000. High Point residents have families in Somalia that are dying by the dozens. This tragedy is not only affecting the lives of innocent people in Somalia, but our clients, our neighbors, our friends and families. Those dying in the middle of the road, in bushes, and in refugee camps, are not nameless. Let’s take a moment to remember their lives at this event.

This fundraiser will benefit Islamic Relief or Mercy Corps. Your donation will help save a life.

When: September 9, 2011 at 6pm
Where: High Point Neighborhood House Center—6400 Sylvan Way SW

From rain to runoff: Take a West Seattle problem-solving tour

July 29, 2011 3:17 pm
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Just in from People for Puget Sound:

Free “Rain Water” Tour Aug 13 in West Seattle Highlights Solutions To Polluted Runoff

When it rains, pollution like oil, grease, pesticides and pet waste washes off streets, parking lots and other hard surfaces into local waterways and Puget Sound, harming the health of birds, fish, whales and people.

People For Puget Sound invites West Seattle residents to a free, family-friendly tour on Saturday, August 13, beginning at 10 AM, at Chief Sealth International High School, 2600 SW Thistle St. The tour will be led by knowledgeable experts who will show how to reduce and eliminate the flow of toxic pollution into our waterways.

At the start of the tour, participants will learn about the ecology of the Longfellow Creek watershed and continue to The Home Depot site to learn about traditional polluted runoff management methods and the effect of polluted runoff on local fish habitat.

The tour will then follow the legacy trail along Longfellow Creek, up 150 stairs, to the High Point neighborhood to view sustainable development solutions to polluted runoff. An optional discussion will conclude the event from 1 – 2 PM at the High Point Community Center.

The tour is free and family-friendly and is limited to 30 participants. To reserve your place, contact Emily Fales, EMfales@uw.edu

4th Annual Water and Spirit Bike Ride set for August 13th

July 20, 2011 3:13 pm
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We received this announcement from the organizers of the Water and Spirit Bike Ride:

We are excited to let you know about the 4th Annual Water and Spirit Bike Ride! This year the ride will start and finish at Salty’s on Alki! This event is coordinated by St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, West Seattle.

*4th Annual Water and Spirit Bike Ride*

Date:
Saturday, August 13, 2011 @ 7:00 AM

Start and Finish:
West Seattle
1936 Harbor Ave SW, Salty’s on Alki Beach

Online Registration (closes Friday, August 12, 2011 @ 9:00 PM)

Brief Description:
Get ready to Ride! Mark the date on your calendar now for this spectacular ride on Puget Sound beginning and ending at Salty’s on Alki Beach, in West Seattle. The 40 mile ride includes three ferry crossings, a farmers market and some of the finest scenery in the Northwest. Ride registrations and sponsorships raise funds for Family Promise of Seattle and Scholastic Journey.

Registration Fees:
Adult $30.00
Family $50.00
Youth or Student $20.00 (Age 16 and older) Child $10.00 (Under age 16 riding with registered Adult)

Registration and Bib Pick Up:
6:15am – 8:30am
At Salty’s on Alki Beach

Cash or Check:
Please bring cash or check if you plan to register on the day of the ride.

Ride Start:
Participants check in and begin ride at Salty’s on Alki Beach.
Start ride by 6:30am to take first ferry to Bremerton.
Start ride by 7:30am to take second ferry to Bremerton

Ferries leave Seattle Terminal at 7:35am and 8:30am.

The Ride:
Salty’s to Seattle Ferry Terminal 5 miles. (ride time 30-45 minutes)
Bremerton Ferry crossing time 60 minutes.
Bremerton Loop 14.25 miles. (ride time 40-90 minutes)
Kitsap Transit Foot Ferry crossing time 15 minutes.
Lunch and relax at the Port Orchard Farmers Market
Route to Southworth Ferry 13.5 miles. (ride time 45-120 minutes)
Southworth Ferry to Fauntleroy crossing time 30 minutes.
West Seattle beach ride to Salty’s on Alki 7.5 miles. (ride time 30-45 minutes)

Ride Finish:
The finish line is at Salty’s! Celebrate, share ride stories, enjoy the view and refresh!

Additional Information:
This is an organized fun-ride to support local non profits, take in beautiful scenery, laugh with friends and enjoy a fantastic day of biking around Puget Sound. All ferry rides are included with registration. Come join us and help make this years ride a ride to remember!!

Register online today on the 2011 Water and Spirit Ride website.

Please share this event with your friends! :) Thank you for your support!

Celebrate Colman Pool’s 70th on the 4th

June 30, 2011 12:26 am
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From Seattle Parks – news of the big party, plus what else you’ll find at West Seattle’s only city-run outdoor pool this summer:

Colman Pool celebrates 70th birthday on July 4; swim lessons are available for kids up to age 16

70th Anniversary
Colman Pool, West Seattle’s outdoor pool and Seattle’s only heated saltwater pool, celebrates its 70th birthday this year, and Seattle Parks and Recreation is holding a celebration from 1:45 to 4:45 p.m. on Monday, July 4.

The celebration at the pool, 8603 Fauntleroy Way SW in Lincoln Park, includes a swim at 1:45 p.m. and a program at 4 p.m., and food, music, pool games, prizes and special entertainment.

Swim Lessons
Summer swim lessons are available at Colman Pool, with openings still available in most classes, including Kinders (for 4 and 5 year olds) and Beginning and Advanced Youth (6-16 years old). Classes are half an hour long and run every day, Monday through Friday, for two weeks at a time. Please call the pool for more information or to register at 206-684-7494.

Colman Pool enjoys a stunning setting on the beach and features the Giant Tube Slide and one-meter and three-meter diving boards. The pool is Olympic size (50 meters long with eight lanes) and the water is kept at 85 degrees F. For more information, please see http://www.seattle.gov/parks/aquatics/colman.htm.

Twelfth Night Productions to open ‘Oliver,’ partner with Treehouse

June 27, 2011 1:40 pm
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An announcement today from West Seattle-based Twelfth Night Productions:

Twelfth Night Productions (TNP) is pleased to open Oliver! by Lionel Bart in August at West Seattle High School. A beloved musical, Oliver! tells Charles Dickens’ story of the little orphan boy who would not be overlooked. The colorful characters he meets on his journey teach him about life and love as he struggles to make it on the streets. A few of the memorable songs include “Food Glorious Food,” “Consider Yourself,” “You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket, or Two,” and “As Long As He Needs Me.” This year’s cast and crew of more than 80 people includes children and adults from all over the Seattle area.

In keeping with TNP’s tradition of giving, this year’s beneficiary is Treehouse, and a portion of the proceeds from Oliver! will be donated to this remarkable organization. Treehouse has been around since 1988 and helps fill the gaps for kids in foster care by providing services overlooked by other agencies. Among other services, they provide money for extra-curricular activities and summer camps, professional educational support services, and clothing and supplies to help kids fit in at school. In addition to donating proceeds from Oliver!, TNP will also help facilitate a back-to-school drive for Treehouse, collecting school supplies, backpacks and new or gently used clothing items for kids in foster care.

Oliver! runs in a special limited engagement at West Seattle High School, August 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 7:30 PM and August 7, 14, and 21 at 3:00 PM. Tickets are available online at Brown Paper Tickets and at West Seattle High School, 3000 California Ave SW Seattle WA, on performance days. Prices are $18 for adults and $15 for students & seniors.

25 hours straight – Seattle HAM radio enthusiasts compete in national competition June 25-26 at SSCC

From the WSB inbox:

SEATTLE HAM RADIO ENTHUSIASTS COMPETE IN NATIONAL AMATEUR RADIO CONTEST & PUBLIC DEMONSTRATION OF EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

Event Date: Saturday and Sunday, June 25th & 26th, 11 am Saturday until 12 pm Sunday.
Location: South Seattle Community College, SE field near Olympic Hall.

National Ham Radio Emergency communications exercise draws together five regional amateur radio groups forming one local City team competing with thousands of Amateur Radio operators making radio contacts throughout North America, showing off their emergency capabilities with a public demonstration this weekend hosted by South Seattle Community College, at the West Seattle Campus June 25th and 26th.

Erecting Ham Radio stations in community parks, campground, schools and emergency centers through out the country, radio teams operating their radios off the power grid will join over 35,000 amateur radio enthusiasts demonstrating their emergency wireless communications skills while having fun talking to friend all over the continent with their radios, participating in the national event called “Field Day” that is the climax of the week long “Amateur Radio Week” sponsored by the ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio.

This year’s Seattle combined team is comprised from members of the “Auxiliary Communications Service” and “Medical Service Team” that serve the City’s Office of Emergency Management, plus the “West Seattle Amateur Radio Club”. Also participating are members of the Seattle Chapter of the American Red Cross Emergency Radio Unit and colleagues from the Puget Sound Repeater Group.

Seattle’s team will be showing off the newest digital and satellite capabilities, voice communications and even historical Morse code as they compete in the contest making as many Radio Contacts as possible to other teams through out North America to gather points, operating Ham Radio equipment powered only by batteries, generators, wind turbines and solar arrays.

Field Coordinator for the Seattle site, Tammy Zoch said, “The Public is invited to the site where they can try their hand at Ham Radio with a special radio station set up just to see how much fun it is to operate an amateur radio. During the two day event there will be demonstrations for Satellite Communications, a digital communications workshop and a Ham Licensing Examination Session. This is a chance to see what Ham Radio Emergency Communication is all about”.

Major sponsor for this years Seattle event is the “Seattle Office of Emergency Management” that provides support and training for the Ham Radio “Auxiliary Communication Service” Program that serves the City’s Emergency Operations Center Ham Radio Station W7ACS in times of emergency communications and community needs when all other means of radio and telephone systems fail.

The staging area for the Seattle City Ham Radio Event is provided by South Seattle Community College and is located in a large grass field in the South East Sector of the Campus near Olympic Hall. On-Air operations will start at 11 am Saturday and continue till 12 pm Sunday.

In the past months, the news has had many reports of ham radio operators providing critical communications in emergencies world-wide. During fires earthquakes, tornadoes and other crises, Amateur Radio was often the only way by which people could communicate. Amateur Radio operators are often the first to provide critical early information and observations to responders in crisis situations.

If you have any questions, contact Dave Mann, ACS PIO at 206 365-9700 or Mark Sheppard, ACS Director, Cell Phone 206 510-7118

For more information about preparedness and amateur radio – please visit:

“Bite at the Point” Community Potluck on June 22nd

June 9, 2011 11:19 pm
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 |   Announcements

The High Point Community Center (Seattle Parks and Recreation) is holding a Multicultural “Bite at the Point” Community Potluck on June 22. This diverse community represents cuisines of many cultures and a potluck in High Point isn’t to be missed.

The event will be held at the High Point Community Center (6920 34th Ave. SW), 6 – 7:30 pm. The potluck is an opportunity to share the many cultural cuisines represented in the neighborhood, so community members are invited to make and share a dish that represents their cultural roots. Enjoy food and fun, and celebrate the High Point Community through succulent sensations from around the world!

The potluck will also feature jumpy toys and field activities for the child in everyone.

Please submit recipes to High Point Community Center by fax to 206.684.7402, email to Lakema.bell@seattle.gov, or send using the US Postal Service to
High Point Community Center
6920 34th Ave. SW
Seattle, WA 98126.

Seattle Parks and Rec asks for the recipes in order to make diners aware of any allergens a dish may contain.

The objective of this event is to encourage diversity exchange and communion among several cultures and to provide a space to engage families in fun.

For more information about the potluck, please call High Point Community Center at 206.684.7422.

Helicopters Fly-In for American Heroes Air Show June 18th

Museum of Flight
Military and civilian choppers descend for free family event, special guests include Capt. Keith Colburn and Edgar Hansen from “Deadliest Catch” reality TV show

June 18 is a day of heroes and helicopters at The Museum of Flight. The admission-free family-friendly American Heroes Air Show and Code 3 public service recruitment fair features static displays of a wide variety of helicopters, vehicles, special presentations, helicopter rides and entertainment in the Museum’s parking lot from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Special guests include crab fishing boat Capt. Keith Colburn and crabber deckhand Edgar Hansen from the Deadliest Catch reality TV show. The two fishermen will be available to meet Air Show visitors.

The annual event demonstrates how helicopters play an important role in law enforcement, fire service, public safety, communications, national defense and homeland security.
Representatives from organizations including local flight schools, Border Patrol, search and rescue units, federal agencies and the U.S. Army, Navy and Coast Guard will be on hand to answer questions. Rides in civilian helicopters will be available for $50.

New Permanent Helicopter Exhibit Opens
The day also marks the opening of a new helicopter exhibit in the Museum featuring a former Coast Guard helicopter, the classic Sikorsky HH-52 Seaguard. This helicopter was last stationed at Port Angeles, Wash., and was retired in 1982. There will be a dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. with representatives from the Museum and the Coast Guard. Speakers include Museum President and CEO Doug King, HH-52 restoration leader Coast Guard pilot Lt. Mark Haines, and Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles Commander Richard Hahn. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Gary Blore, Thirteenth Coast Guard District Commander and “Ancient Albatross of the Coast Guard,” will speak about the significance of the HH-52 during its operation in the Northwest. The ceremony is open to the public, and free with admission to the Museum.

Helicopter Book Signings
The Museum is hosting an all-day book signing party with some of Northwest’s top aviation writers including Jay Spenser and Steve Vermillion. Spenser is the author of “Whirlybirds: A History of U.S. Helicopter Pioneers;” Vermillion’s autobiography, “”Dustoff – No Compromise! No Rationalization! No Hesitation! Fly the Mission,”
is about helicopter medivac flying during the Vietnam War. The event is free and located in the Museum lobby, with books available for purchase.

Here is the official schedule of events:

Schedule of Events
7:30 a.m.
Aircraft begin arriving. The public is welcome to come early and watch. Complimentary coffee and pastries will be available to early visitors.

8:30 a.m.
Capt. Keith Colburn of the Fishing Vessel Wizard arrives to meet with fans and crews before the show opens.

10 a.m.
Gates open and helicopter rides begin.

11 a.m.
Dedication ceremony of the Sikorsky HH-52 helicopter exhibit in the Museum Side Gallery.

1 p.m.
Edgar Hansen, deckhand on the Fishing Vessel Northwestern, presents the U.S.Coast Guard with a certificate of appreciation in the Museum’s Allen Theater. Accepting for the Coast Guard are flight crews from USCG Air Stations Port Angeles and Astoria. Included in the program is a Discovery Channel video of actual Coast Guard helicopter rescue operations at sea. The audience is encouraged to ask questions of the Coast Guard personnel in attendance.

2 to 2:30 p.m.
Edgar Hansen meets and greets fans at the show.

For more information on the event, visit www.heroes-airshow.com

Beach Access Opening Celebration at Jack Block Park June 24th

You might want to plan ahead for the Beach Access Opening Celebration at Jack Block Park June 24th. Port of Seattle has extended an invitation to all, you can register online or email portrsvp@portseattle.org or call 206.787.3009

Here’s the details:

Where: Jack Block Park (2130 Harbor Ave. SW / Seattle, WA 98126-2033)
Get Driving Directions

When:
Friday June 24, 2011 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Add to my calendar

Here’s the official invitation:

Please join us for a Community Celebration as we commemorate new public beach access at Jack Block Park Friday, June 24, 5:00 – 7:30 pm. Ribbon Cutting and Native Canoe Launch at 6:00 pm. Salmon BBQ and hosted beer, wine RSVP requested by Tuesday, 6/21.

Join us on June 25-26 for the first annual Northwest Paddling Festival at Jack Block Park featuring on water demonstrations, instruction, a paddle sports market, music, food and fun.

Register Online Now

About Jack Block Park

Jack Block Park is located on the Pacific Sound Resources Superfund Site, a former creosote wood treating facility that operated from the turn of the century. During its course of operation, until listed on the EPA National Priorities List, the wood treating facility released hazardous contaminants into the soil, intertidal and deeper marine area. The Port of Seattle purchased the upland portion of the site as part of the redevelopment and expansion of the Terminal 5 cargo-handling facility and implemented cleanup actions for the uplands under EPA oversight. EPA later placed a protective sand/gravel cap in 58 acres of the marine area that also created the intertidal beach. The Port developed the park as a community benefit and today, the park encompasses 13 acres of landscaping, viewpoints, pedestrian and bicycle paths and shoreline access. The EPA recently has determined the shoreline area suitable for public access and the Port is proud to add this exciting feature to one of our 22 “hidden gems” on Seattle’s waterfront.

Skate for a Cure on June 4th at newly reopened Southgate Roller Rink

June 3, 2011 2:36 pm
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 |   Announcements

We received a nice email from Ashley Vincent asking for our help to promote their fundraising skate event this Saturday. She made a personal appeal for help, and how can we refuse?

My name is Ashley Vincent I’m 22 years old and a local West Seattle-ite. I am writing to you about a fundraiser that I am having this weekend. My best friend and I are walking in the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for the Cure (my 3rd year and her 1st) and are holding a fundraiser at Southgate Roller Rink this weekend! We had our first fundraiser, a bake sale, listed through you during the Community Garage Sale Day and raised over $800! We were wondering if there was any way you could help us get the word out about our “Skate for a Cure” fundraiser for more people to show up?

Here are the event details:
Put on your roller skates and “Skate for a Cure”. Help local West Seattleites Amiko Imori and Ashley Vincent raise the $4,600 they need to be able to participate in the 2011 Susan G. Komen 60 mile 3-Day walk! A fun two hours of catching up with old friends, great music, and roller skating all while supporting a great cause!
Where: Southgate Roller Rink
When: Saturday, June 4th, 5:00-7:00 pm
• Entrance into the rink will be $10 per person (this includes skate rental) but any donations over that will be greatly appreciated!
• 100% of the donations received from this event will go straight to Susan G. Komen for the Cure!
• Prizes for best dressed (male and female), racing, limbo and more!

They also have a Facebook Event page where you can RSVP, ask questions, or make comments.

So come dressed in your craziest pink clothes and get ready to skate! See you there!

Historic Alki Bike Tour set for June 25th

There are a lot of activities going on at the beach the weekend of June 25th. If you aren’t into PADDLING in the water, you could try PEDALING along the water’s edge instead. There is a Facebook Event page to RSVP, but you should also contact Sarah Frederick at the Log House Museum. Here’s more info from the Southwest Seattle Historical Society…

The Southwest Seattle Historical Society (SWSHS) invites residents to bike into history as the 4th Annual SWSHS Bike Tour returns to West Seattle Saturday June 25th 2011, 12:30 to 2 p.m. The Bike Tour accompanies SWSHS’ popular Walking Tour series, showcasing some of West Seattle’s most influential landmarks. Admission to the Bike Tour is $7 for non-members, $5 for museum members. Donations are accepted.

The Log House Museum is located at 3003 61st Avenue SW, a half-block off Alki Avenue. Participants are encouraged to register by contacting Sarah Frederick at (206) 938-5293 or collections@loghousemuseum.info

For more information about SWSHS and the Log House Museum, log on to www.loghousemuseum.info

Become an Orca Steward! Free training offered on June 11th

May 22, 2011 8:21 pm
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 |   Announcements

The Whale Trail is presenting an Orca Steward Training at the Alki Community Center (5817 SW Stevens Street) on June 11th from 10 am to 2:30 pm. This half-day program is designed to teach individuals about orcas, issues impacting them, and what people can do to make a difference. Starting with West Seattle, they hope to offer this training to communities around the region. Details below…

A pilot project to train orca stewards is launching in June with its first presentation to the local community. Presented by The Whale Trail, the Orca Steward Training Program seeks to teach members of the local community what they can do to help endangered southern resident orcas. Starting with the West Seattle community, the goal is to offer the Orca Steward Training Program in communities around the region, creating a network of people making positive changes for the orcas and the Sound.

The event will feature experts sharing their knowledge of orcas with residents of West Seattle and beyond. Cindy Hansen from The Whale Museum will teach “Orca ABCs,” Lynne Barre from NOAA Fisheries will discuss the management and recovery of the southern resident orcas, Mark Sears will share his photos and experiences from over 30 years of orca research in West Seattle, and Franziska McKay of People for Puget Sound will show how everyone can have a positive influence on the Sound, linking stormwater management to orca recovery.

The event is free, and open to all ages.

Preregistration is required at Brown Paper Tickets. Training is free and lunch will be provided. Attendance is limited. Register early!

This project is funded in part by a Neighborhood Matching Fund award of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.

Why become an Orca Steward?
Local Southern Resident orcas (J, K, and L pods) have historically and currently use the entire Puget Sound basin. During winter months, they are frequently spotted from the shores of West Seattle. These iconic marine mammals were listed as Endangered in 2005. Threats contributing to their decline include lack of prey, toxin accumulations, and stress and noise from vessel impacts. If current trends continue or worsen, they could go extinct in as little as 100 years.

Residents of the Puget Sound region have a tremendous impact on whether the orcas will survive. The pilot program will teach how individuals can make a difference for the whales, the Sound, and the marine life that it sustains. As part of the program, participants will be encouraged to make a commitment to one or more specific stewardship actions, focused especially on stormwater management.

About The Whale Trail
The Whale Trail is a series of sites around the region where the public may view orcas and other marine mammals from shore. Its mission is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of whales and our marine environment. The project is partnering with groups, agencies and communities around the region to select and develop the Whale Trail sites, and to create and deliver educational programs. With 20 sites established, the project plans to add at least 20 more this year, including four in West Seattle.

For more information, visit www.thewhaletrail.org, see them on Facebook, or email info@thewhaletrail.org

FREE! Bert’s Auto Leaks Class Series at SSCC

May 19, 2011 3:09 pm
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Tracy this needs a jazzy intro

Help Bert the Salmon keep oil and other fluid leaks from your car from harming our local waterways and wildlife. Join the experts at South Seattle Community College’s Automotive Technology Program for a FREE auto leaks class. Learn where most leaks occur and how to fix them.

Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm on June 4, July 9, August 13, and September 24.
All participants will receive a FREE assessment of their car and a leak and spill kit.

Email anthony.matlock@seattle.gov or call 206-386-9746 to register.

Benefit for Nicole Pieratt, a West Seattleite who is battling Breast Cancer May 23rd

May 16, 2011 2:44 pm
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Tracy – this needs an intro.

An Evening To Benefit Nicole Pieratt

A night of nostalgia, celebration and fund-raising for a friend in need. Join us as we welcome an amazing community of supporters from Seattle’s music, service and artistic industries for this extraordinary evening.

Silent Auction and Champagne Hour beginning at 6pm with complementary bubbles and Hor d’oeuvres by Purple Wine Bar and Cafe

Special Live Performances by:
Hey Marseilles
Pearly Gate Music
DJ Erika White

Silent Auction Contributors and Event Supporters:
Mathews Winery, Mark Ryan Winery, Sub Pop, Teatro Zinzanni, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Ghost Gallery, Tom Douglas, Seward Park Clay Studio, City Arts Magazine, Seattle Magazine, Three Imaginary Girls, Panda Labs, Landcameras.com, autographed works by Lance Mercer and Charles Peterson, photographic prints by Hayley Young autographed by Nancy Pearl, John Roderick, Wayne Horvitz, original artwork by Stacey Rozich, Drew Christie, Daniel Carrillo, autographed vinyl from The Cave Singers, Campfire, Ok, Damien Jurado, and many more.

May 23rd 2011 Fred Wildlife Refuge
Reserved on-site parking provided. Main entrance located on Belmont Ave. East
Classic attire welcomed.

All proceeds from ticket sales to the event, as well as moneys earned from the silent auction will go to Nicole directly, thanks in full to the generosity of event supporters and donors.

Join us in our support for a young woman’s challenge to overcome breast cancer. Your presence is your contribution. Come celebrate it with us.

You can purchase tickets your tickets online here

Breathe Deep Seattle walk/run planned for Lincoln Park August 13th

The Ratzenberger family and volunteers are planning an awareness event that includes some fun exercise in an effort to educate people that 65% of those diagnosed with lung cancer never smoked cigarettes.  

LOCAL FAMILY RALLIES AROUND 31 YEAR OLD NEVER-SMOKER DIAGNOSED WITH NUMBER ONE CANCER KILLER 

Seattle, WA (April 29, 2011) – More shocking words had never been heard by the Ratzenberger family.  At just 31 years old, Sara Ratzenberger, a healthy and active young woman, never expected to hear that she had lung cancer. 

“When I woke up from surgery, I expected to hear everything went well.  Instead I saw the teary-eyed looks of my parents and my husband.  Then my husband said “it’s not good, it’s cancer, Sara.”  To this day, it is still unbelievable that after six months of being misdiagnosed with pneumonia – having been tested several times and having been told I did not have cancer – that my story turned into this” says Sara, shaking her head.

Although smoking is a major cause of this disease, about 65% of all new lung cancer diagnoses are among people who have never smoked or are former smokers.  And Sara’s family is committed to educating the community about this and other misconceptions surrounding lung cancer.  The family will host Breathe Deep Seattle, Washington’s first 5K event to benefit LUNGevity Foundation and the organization’s mission to fund lung cancer research.

“The key is to raise money for research,” states Amy May, Volunteer Event Coordinator for Breathe Deep Seattle, “Sara’s cancer was found in stage four, which is not uncommon.  But that needs to change because only 16% of lung cancer diagnoses happen during the earliest and most curable stage of the disease, making lung cancer the most deadly cancer in America.  The 5-year survival rate for lung cancer is only 15% and that is unacceptable.” 

May has joined forces with LUNGevity Foundation, one of the largest private funders of lung cancer research to host Washington’s inaugural Breathe Deep Seattle 5K.  The organization, like May, is dedicated to ending lung cancer now. 

On Saturday August 13, 2011, the 5K will take place in Seattle’s Lincoln Park.  The event welcomes runners and walkers and registration fees for the event range from $10 to $30.  Runners will be timed.  Event participants will receive a free t-shirt and ice cream, provided by Husky Deli, after the event.  Event participants will also receive their own web page, which can be used to raise funds toward lung cancer research.

“1 in 14 Americans are impacted by lung cancer and so you have likely been touched by the disease, whether your realize it or not.  It’s time to care about lung cancer and those it touches.  Sara and I hope the community will support this critical cause by helping us to raise our $15,000 fundraising goal,” shares May. 

To register or make a donation, please visit www.lungevity.org/seattle or call the LUNGevity office at 312-464-0716.

The Breathe Deep Seattle walk/run will be a wonderful way for participants to spend a summer morning.  Participants will enjoy a beautiful one mile trail run through evergreen forest, with views from a bluff to the Puget Sound below. Then, wind their way down to the beach and run for 2 miles along the water on paved and hard-packed gravel travel. Wildlife, waves, mountain and sound views will inspire!

Annual Playwrights Studio presents showcase of new plays at ArtsWest

May 9, 2011 5:24 pm
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A singular opportunity for writers in our area taking place at ArtsWest –

Seattle Playwrights Studio Presents
9th Annual Playwright’s Festival
Hosted by ArtsWest Playhouse & Gallery
Festival Run: May 28th – May 29th, 2011

Seattle Playwrights Studio (SPS), under the aegis of ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery, proudly presents its 9th Annual Showcase of New Plays starting Saturday, May 28th through Sunday, May 29th. Each evening of the showcase will feature a different sampling of staged readings written by SPS members and performed by local actors in ArtsWest’s theater. ArtsWest Playhouse and Gallery is located in West Seattle at 4711 California Avenue S.W.

Seattle Playwrights Studio provides playwrights the opportunity to hear plays-in-progress read aloud and to receive moderated feedback from fellow writers in a supportive environment. Over the last eleven years, plays developed within SPS have been professionally produced locally, and across the country.

Ticket Information: Tickets are $8; admission includes a wine and food reception after the show and a meet and greet with the playwrights, directors and actors. Performances begin at 7 p.m.; purchase tickets at the door or call the ArtsWest box office at (206) 938-0339. For directions, box office hours, and more information visit www.artswest.org.

Box Office hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12-7 PM

About ArtsWest: ArtsWest produces artistic events so fiercely compelling that they require conversation, improve the imagination, and promote cultural vibrancy as a core value for the communities of Seattle. ArtsWest is a registered 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization.

Furry Faces Foundation Plant Sale May 21-22

May 7, 2011 1:21 am
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F3 has a plant sale coming up. Flora and Fauna all in one place, you can’t beat that!

It’s Furry Faces Foundation‘s 11th Plant Sale Season which now includes Pet Adoption opportunities as well. Come by our sale at 3809 46th Ave SW on May 21st and 22nd, from 10 am – 4 pm.  We think you will love our selection. There will be 1,000+  healthy, nursery quality perennials, annuals and vegetables at reasonable prices, beautifully suited for Pacific NW gardens. Ornamental Grasses; Spiderwort; Sedums; Dianthus, Lychnis, Phlox, Campanula, Lavender, Sages, Semperviums, Unique Coleus selection, Viola, Pansies, Petunias, Nicotiana, Mosses, and more. 

Looking to add a new furry family member? Different rescue groups will be onsite each day, providing you with the opportunity to meet dogs and cats that are looking to adopt a new human.  Don’t shop….adopt!

All plant sale proceeds fund Furry Faces Foundation’s two programs which support animals whose humans are financially restricted—‘It’s Hip, To Be Snipped’ and ‘Oliver’s Fund’.  To find out more about our group see our website at or ‘Like’ us on Facebook!