Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Seattle Metro Area 4th in Nation for Blogging
Apparently we are early adopters of new technology
We are more likely to download podcasts/videos
We come from middle class families
We make 50k t0 100k
We do everything from correspondence to banking online
Read more about the research report Here
Study Shows Big Jump in Seattle Bike Commuters
From the City of Seattle
SEATTLE - The number of bicyclist entering downtown during the morning commute jumped 31 percent since 2000, according to a recent count released today by the Seattle Department of Transportation.
“More and more people are choosing to leave the car in the garage and find a different way to get to work,” said Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels. “We are making it easier and safer to get around Seattle by walking and biking and we are starting to see the results. By taking a bike instead of a car, people are reducing greenhouse gas emissions and leaving the city and the planet a better place.”“We are building a true transportation network in Seattle, one that recognizes that there really is more than one way to travel through this city,” said Grace Crunican, director of the Seattle Department of Transportation. “This increase in bike commuters is great news. We know that the safer and easier you make it to ride a bike in Seattle, the more people will do it.”
For the downtown survey, volunteers at 29 locations recorded the number of bicyclists passing by, counting 2,273 during the morning commute. The top five locations for bicyclists to enter the Center City are, in order: Dexter Avenue N, Colman Dock, the Alaskan Way Path, the Elliot Bay Path, and Pine Street. The complete results of the 2007 Downtown Bicycle Counts can be viewed at: http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/bikeinfo.htm.
Discovery Park Has Great Holiday Programs
The Discovery Park Environmental Learning Center has great program offerings to get you in the mood for the holidays in a sustainable way while learning more about your natural environment. And now you can book yourself into classes online at www.seattle.gov/parks. Just click on SPARC.
Ornaments for the birds
Decorate your backyard for the holidays with ornaments that will attract and feed birds. We'll make yummy treats and then explore a bit of Discovery Park's "backyard" to look for winter feathered flocks. Please register by November 28. The cost is $12, and $10 for each additional person.
Saturday, December 1, 1:30 - 4 p.m.
Spruce up your home for the coming winter. Create wreaths, garlands, and sprays using English Ivy, Scot's Broom and holly. You'll be the envy of the neighborhood and a habitat hero too. We provide basic material. Please bring your own special ribbons, cones, or other unique decorations. Please register by December 5. The cost is $20 and $16 for each additional person.
Saturday, December 8, 1:30 - 4 p.m.
From the City of Seattle
Monday, October 29, 2007
Free holiday concerts to brighten City Hall and Seattle Municipal Tower
Free holiday concerts to brighten City Hall and Seattle Municipal Tower
December performances include medieval choral music, Latin jazz, festive carols and more
SEATTLE — From medieval choral music to Latin Jazz, the Seattle Presents concerts series will bring good tidings and great music to City Hall and the Seattle Municipal Tower with six holiday-themed performances, noon to 1 p.m., Dec. 4 to 20. Tuesday concerts will take place at Seattle Municipal Tower. Thursday performances will take place at City Hall.
The performances are part of the free lunchtime Seattle Presents concert series presented year round by the Mayor's Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs. For more information, visit www.seattle.gov/seattlepresents or call (206) 684-7171. Concerts at Seattle Municipal Tower are presented in partnership with the city's Fleets and Facilities Department.
City Hall Lobby, 600 Fourth Avenue
Bobby Medina Quartet, Thursday, December 6
Celebrated trumpeter Bobby Medina has toured with such luminaries as Ray Charles, Mel Torme, The Four Tops and The Temptations. His new show combines flavors of jazz and Latin music in a style he calls "Jazztec." "Bobby's trumpet playing is flawless!" raves Jim Wilke of KPLU 88.5 FM. The performance is presented in partnership with the Mayor's Office for Senior Citizens.
Medieval Women's Choir, Thursday, December 13
Guest conductor Nancy Zylstra leads the choir in a program of 15th century English music including festive carols with intricate rhythms punctuated by the lush harmonies of Lionel Power and John Dunstable, two celebrated English composers of the period.
Northwest Chamber Chorus, Thursday, December 20
The chamber chorus celebrates its 40th anniversary season singing a holiday program of motets by composers Schütz, Scheidt, Palestrina, Poulenc and Grieg, plus beautiful arrangements of traditional favorites, including "Silent Night," "Deck the Halls" and "What Cheer!"
Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 Fifth Avenue
The Dickens Carolers, Tuesday, December 4
A cappella holiday favorites from ladies and gents adorned in Victorian attire of tailcoats, top hats and velvet dresses singing traditional and contemporary melodies in four-part harmony.
Ballard High School Chamber Orchestra, Tuesday, December 11
Holiday favorites and selections from Tschaikovsky, Handel and Vaughn Williams performed by some of Ballard's best young artists.
Windsong, Tuesday, December 18
This festive flute and string trio rings in the season with classical flair and holiday favorites.
The Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs promotes the value of arts and culture in and of communities throughout Seattle. The 16-member Seattle Arts Commission, citizen volunteers appointed by the mayor and City Council, supports the city agency.
(from city of seattle)
Friday, October 26, 2007
Win 2 Tickets to see Brand New & Thrice on Oct 30th at the Showbox
America’s Mayors Roll Up Sleeves at Seattle Climate Summit
SEATTLE - America’s mayors will take center stage in the effort to stop global warming as they gather in Seattle Nov. 1 & 2 for an unprecedented summit to spur local and federal action on climate change.
The two-day event will feature keynote addresses by former President Bill Clinton, and mayors Michael Bloomberg of New York and Antonio Villaraigosa of Los Angeles as well as other national and international leaders in the effort to prevent climate change. The U.S. House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming will also hold a special hearing with mayors during the summit.
Hosted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the Seattle summit will be the largest-ever meeting of American mayors devoted solely to climate protection. More than 100 mayors from across the country representing millions of Americans will discuss the impact of climate change on their communities and the steps cities are taking to reduce greenhouse gas pollution.
Media planning to attend are highly encouraged to register now since space is limited. To register for the summit, please go to: http://usmayors.org/climateprotection/press_registration.asp
The mayors will participate in a wide range of sessions designed to accelerate local action on global warming. The summit will include real-world solutions for:
• Creating jobs and growing a green economy
• Designing a climate-friendly transportation system
• Reducing sprawl through smart growth
• Building a green city at home and work
The summit presents an opportunity to understand how local governments are leading the way on climate protection in the United States, and how one city in particular - Seattle - is taking bold steps to create solutions in homes, at work and on the road.
Seattle is powered by the first utility in the nation to emit zero net greenhouse gasses. It is investing millions of dollars to expand rail, bus and bike networks and working to reduce sprawl through innovative land use policies. Seattle is also partnering with businesses to foster a new “green” economy and create jobs in areas such as alternative fuels and construction.
Condos on First Hill
From $239,950
120 14th Ave Seattle WA 98122
MLS# 27155378
16 Unique Updated
1 Bedroom/1 Bath Condo's
In Desirable First Hill
Offered At A Great Price
Located on the eastern edge of First Hill, this 16-unit complex possesses location and appeal. The building is close to I-90 and I-5, walking distance to Seattle University, Broadway, Downtown Seattle and Swedish Medical Center.
In the past 2 years the building has been updated with mechanical, plumbing, electrical upgrades, and installation of washers & dryers. The center courtyard has been landscaped into an English garden, accented with plants and ironwork throughout.
Each unit is distinctive and individually designed. The condo features may include; Italian porcelain-tile floors and countertops in the bathrooms and kitchens; hardwoods, carpet and tile flooring throughout; newer cabinets, walk-in closets, designer interior paint, efficient heating and lighting, newer water heaters and stackable washer/dryer in each unit. The newer double pane windows allow an abundance of natural light.
****BUYER BONUS****
YOUR PAYMENT/YOUR CHOICE
1. Choose a Super Low Initial Monthly Payment at 4.250%
2. Choose a Super Low 5.875% *30 Year Fixed Rate & Pay No Closing Costs
3. Choose Your First YEAR With No Homeowners Dues & No Closing Costs!
If you could like to view these feel free to contact me (email) or Tom Bates
Bill Clinton book signing at the U of W Bookstore Nov. 1st
"Former President Bill Clinton will visit University Book Store as part of his national book tour for Giving. He will be signing copies of his new book for readers beginning at 8pm. Giving: How Each of Us Can Change the World is an inspiring look at how individual endeavors can save lives and solve problems, and it offers compelling examples of citizen activism at work in the world today. A portion of President Clinton's proceeds from the book will be donated to charities and nonprofits that are doing their part to change the world. When you come to University Book Store to purchase a copy of Giving, you will receive a voucher. Hang on to it and when you arrive at the signing, you will be given a wristband to stand in the signing line. Your book will be available then. It is important to arrive early, as there will be a limited number of wristbands. Having a signing ticket is NOT a guarantee of getting a book signed. President Clinton's time will be limited, and only customers with wristbands will have the opportunity to get a signed book." From the Ubookstore
Adopt A Drain
The city is inviting people to adopt a drain and help keep them clean from leaves & from flooding.
"We are asking for volunteers to "Adopt a Drain" and become active stewards of their neighborhood's environment. This program is being run as a complimentary part of our long standing and highly successful Adopt A Street program.
How to Sign Up
Signing up is easy. Read our Statement of Commitment (doc), fill it out and email to adoptastreet@seattle.gov. OR request sign-up information by calling the Adopt A Street hotline at (206) 684-7647. Leave your name, phone number, and address and we will send you everything you need to get started." (from the city of seattle)
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Green Thumbs Gathering on Saturday
For more information about traffic circles, please visit the SDOT’s website: www.seattle.gov/transportation/trafficcircles.htm# landscape For information about the event call: 684-TREE
The Seattle Department of Transportation builds, maintains and operates Seattle's $8 billion transportation infrastructure. To further Mayor Nickels’ goal to get Seattle moving, the department manages short- and long-term investments in streets, bridges, pavement and trees, that better connect the city with the region.
Beautiful 2 Story Home In The Smokey Point Area (Arlington, Wa)
Monday, October 22, 2007
Seattle is No. 2 for Candy Buying
New study shows that Seattle is 2nd in the nation for Candy Buying.
"Seattle residents buy more candy per capita than any other city in the country except one, according to a recent study." (Puget Sound Business Journal)
The Salt Lake region is number one in the nation.
I wonder if this means we also have a high number of people with diabetes
Thursday, October 18, 2007
"Vessel" Sculpture - The First Windstorm Casualty
Here is a low quality picture from the "Vessel" Cam
Thanks to Jill for her picture she took and posted on Flickr
Upcoming Event: The Boys Do The Girls
Crepe de Paris
Restaurant Bar Cabaret
Rainier Square, 1333 Fifth Ave, 2nd Floor
Seattle, WA 98101
call for reservations
(206) 623-4111
6:30 pm Dinner
8:00 pm Show
$20 show only, full bar available
$50 3-course dinner/show package and a la carte menu available
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
How Proposition 1 Benefits you by Zip Code
I entered my zip code 98101 and it brought up this map
Stating:
Check it out and learn about Proposition 1 at http://yesonroadsandtransit.org/
Are you prepared for the Windstorm
Here are some helpful links to help you prepare or deal with the aftermath of the storm
Emergency Preparedness
http://www.seattle.gov/emergency/
Weather Emergency Tips
http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/weathertips.htm
Emergency Contact Numbers
http://www.seattle.gov/transportation/weathertips.htm#contacts
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Capitol Hill Studio under $200,000
Listing 27164199
List Price $194,950
Baths 1 / Fireplaces 1
Year Built 1984
Appx. SQFT 383
Listed by James Tjoa
James Tjoa & Associates at RE/MAX
t. 206.726.6230
Condo Description: Immaculate studio condo in the heart of vibrant Capitol Hill. Features include a wood-burning fireplace, in-unit washer/dryer, murphy bed, and a private deck with pleasant treed outlook. This well-mantained building offers a gated entry, serene landscaped courtyard, and a contemporary lobby. Central location within walking distance of all neighborhood amenities, entertainment, and recreation. Secure parking space and ample storage throughout.
If you would like to view this unit you may contact James or send me an email
Upcoming Halloween Events
5:00 - 8:00pm
TICKeT iNFoRMaTioN
Tickets on sale at all Bartell Drugs locations and at the zoo starting Monday, October 1st.
$9 adults
$7 children 17 and under
Carelton Farms Corn Maze
830 Sunnyside Blvd SE, Everett, WA 98205
Open: Weekdays 10 am - 6 pm, Weekends 9 am - 6 pm
Halloween Movie Night
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 |
7:00pm - 11:00pm |
The Braeburn Theatre |
1410 East Pine Street |
Seattle, WA |
The Annual PTP Halloween Sale!! Saturday, October 20, 2007 9:00am - 1:00pm |
Huthcinson Hall Room 202 |
Stevens Way near the 45th/17th entrance of UW Seattl Campus |
Seattle, WA Need a great Halloween costume for next to nothing? Check out the University of Washington School of Drama's annual sale! Hundreds of costume pieces from our inventory are made available to the public only once a year... and you can't beat our prices! MANY ITEMS ARE ONLY ONE DOLLAR!! |
Quiet Monkey Fight Halloween Improv Show!
Friday, October 26, 2007 |
8:00pm - 9:30pm |
Odd Duck Studio |
1214 10th Avenue |
Seattle, WA |
The Great Pumpkin is Recyclable, Charlie Brown!
SEATTLE-- Scary, but true! Pumpkins and other autumn fruits and vegetables can be placed in Seattle’s yard and food waste cart.
It’s no trick, just an environmental treat! In addition to leaves, grass and other yard waste, leftovers such as pumpkin pie, caramel apples, pasta, bread, paper napkins and pizza boxes can now go in Seattle’s 96-gallon yard and food waste cart, where they will be collected and turned into compost for local parks and gardens. In 2005, Seattle residents diverted more than 6,000 tons of food waste from the landfill.
For guidelines of other items that can be placed in Seattle’s yard and food waste cart, please visit Seattle Public Utilities Acceptable Yard and Food Waste website.
With more and more Seattle homeowners recycling and adding kitchen scraps to their yard waste, many people are discovering that their standard garbage can is larger than they need. Seattle Public Utilities offers a variety of garbage can sizes, ranging from 96 gallons/180 lbs at $49.05 per month, to 12 gallons/20 lbs for just $10.20 per month. Seattle Public Utilities customers can visit our Change Your Garbage Can Size website or call (206) 684-3000 to change their garbage can size.
In addition to providing solid waste services in Seattle, SPU provides more than 1.3 million customers in the metropolitan area with a reliable water supply and provides essential sewer, drainage and engineering services that safeguard public health, maintain the City’s infrastructure and protect, conserve and enhance the region's environmental resources.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Friday, October 12, 2007
Do you live on Shaky Ground?
The SeattlePi is running an article on the neighborhoods at most risk for severe shaking damage in an Earthquake. According to the article:
-Capitol Hill looks pretty stable
-Interbay and Georgetown will probably sink into the ocean
-9 to 18 feet high tsunami on Lake Washington
Looks like Capitol Hill, Lower Queen Anne, Belltown are the places to be in an Earthquake.
Jimmy Eat World & Maritime at the Showbox
Maritime
Jimmy Eat World
Maritime
Jimmy Eat World - Praise Chorus
Jimmy Eat World - Lucky Denver Mint
Waiting for the Encore
Jimmy Eat World - Sweetness
More videos can be found on my YouTube Page
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Seattle Ranked 2nd in Organic Foods
According to the study group Scarborough Research
" "The top five markets for organics consumers have youth, higher than average annual household incomes, and a fitness mentality in common," said Alisa Joseph of Scarborough Research.""
King 5 / Scarborough Research
Washington State Ranks 11th For Best Tax Climate
"""States with the best tax systems will be most competitive in attracting new businesses and be the most effective at generating economic and employment growth," wrote the study's authors."" (from Puget Sound Business Journal)
Which is why this year Washington came out as the 5th best state for Business according to a study by Forbes Magazine
Another great reason to live in Washington State
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Top Pot is coming to Queen Anne
"The latest Top Pot will open late this year or early next on Galer Street, in the same brick building that's home to the newest Via Tribunali pizzeria. This Top Pot will be bigger than the original on Capitol Hill and smaller than the space in the shadow of the monorail on Fifth Avenue. It will be more along the size of the store in Wedgwood." (from the seattlepi)
Oregon Joins Washington with Domestic-Partnership Law
"State elections officials reported Monday that the effort fell 116 valid signatures short of the 55,179 needed to suspend the law and place it on the November 2008 ballot for a popular vote.
That means that as of Jan. 1, Oregon will join eight other states that have approved spousal rights in some form for same-sex couples: Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Maine, California, Washington and Hawaii. Massachusetts is the only state that allows gay couples to marry." from the SeattleTimes
Monday, October 08, 2007
Students to Help Envision Climate Action Now
SEATTLE - As part of the Seattle’s Climate Action Now campaign and the recently adopted Seattle School Board resolution to reduce greenhouse gasses, Mayor Greg Nickels and Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Maria L. Goodloe-Johnson are inviting students to put their art skills to use and help raise awareness of global warming at the same time.
A t-shirt design contest will challenge students to visualize what climate change means to them. Winning designs will be included in a 2008 Climate Action Now Calendar and one will be featured on t-shirts donated by Nordstrom. The contest is open to all students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
“This is a chance for young people - those who will undoubtedly be affected most by the issue of climate change - to start putting their talents to use now in taking action to stop global warming,” Nickels said. “We want to capitalize on their creativity; it’s art today, but it will be innovation tomorrow.”
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Maria L. Goodloe-Johnson agreed, saying “This project is an excellent opportunity for students to translate their science knowledge into a visual design of environmental solutions.”
All t-shirt design contest submissions must reflect the theme, what can you do everyday to be part of the solution to climate change? Featured climate actions are walking, biking, using transit, carpooling, and conserving electricity and natural gas. The Seattle Climate Action Now website provides additional resources on these and other featured climate actions.
To enter the Seattle Public Schools Climate Action Now Contest, please call Nicole Riss, Seattle Public Schools, at (206) 252-0599 or visit http://www.seattleschools.org/area/conservation/seattlecan_tshirt.html.
Top 5 Rated Restaurants on Capitol Hill
1. Saley & Sucre
1361 E Olive Way
Seattle, WA, 98122
2. Piroshki On Broadway
128 Broadway E
Seattle, WA, 98102
3. Joe Bar
810 E Roy St
Seattle, WA, 98102
4. Kingfish Cafe
602 19th Ave E
Seattle, WA, 98112
5. Bleu Bistro
202 Broadway E
Seattle, WA, 98102
Friday, October 05, 2007
Mum at Neumos Oct 27th
5 Things To Do In Seattle
Here is a video from WatchMojo.com called "5 Things To Do In Seattle"
The Washington Arboretum was a surprise.
What are your top 5 reasons why people should visit Seattle or 5 must see places in Seattle?
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Take a class on how to prepare yourself for a natural disaster
Classes are free:
Laurelhurst Community Center
4554 NE 41st St
Thurs, Oct 11, 7-8:30 p.m.
Langston Hughes Community Center
104 17th Ave S
Thurs, Oct 25, 7-8:30 p.m.
Loyal Heights Community Center
2101 NW 77th St
Tues, Oct 30, 7-8:30 p.m.
West Precinct - Seattle Police Department
810 Virginia St
Tues, Nov 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
Queen Anne Community Center
1901 1st Ave W
Tues, Nov 13, 7-8:30 p.m.
Alki Community Center
5817 SW Stevens St
Thurs, Nov 15, 7-8:30 p.m.
Jefferson Park Community Center
3801 Beacon Ave S
Sat, Dec 1, 10-11:30 a.m.
Montlake Community Center
1618 E Calhoun St
Thurs, Dec 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
Meadowbrook Community Center
10517 35th Ave NE
Thurs, Dec 11, 7:30-9p.m.
Seattle: America's Most Stable Housing Market
Top 5 Cities
1. Seattle, Wa
2. Pittsburgh, Pa
3. Columbus, Ohio
4. Dallas, Texas
5. St. Louis, Mo.
"Nationwide, home prices are falling, sales are sluggish and the number of foreclosures is mounting. Ask any economist and you'll hear that things are bad, and likely to get worse.
Unless you live in Seattle, where the market is slowing but fundamentals remain strong.
The Emerald City has experienced strong price appreciation over the last six quarters, and that's expected to continue in the new year, though at a slower pace. In addition to a very low housing inventory and a strong sales rate, there are few non-conforming and high-risk loans on the books than in other cities, which means the area will likely see fewer defaults in the coming months than the rest of the country's markets." (from Forbes)
Shelfari releases new bookshelf blog widget..check out what I'm reading
Check out my bookshelf on the right hand side of my blog
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
3 Bedroom House in Burien for under $300,000
Listing# 27179493
List Price $274,950
Beds 3 / Baths 1 / Fireplaces 1
Year Built 1953
Covd Prkg. 1 Garage-Attached
Appx. SQFT 1140
Acreage 0.172
Lot Size 7500
Listed by Bunny Parker of Keller Williams Seattle Metro
Beautiful Chelsea Park rambler at a great price. Don't miss this 3 bedroom 1 bath home in move in condition. Center piece fireplace creates circular floor plan and a wonderful open living space. Large utilty room/mudroom could double as kitchen pantry or spacious enough for an office. 1 car attached garage plus driveway and extra parking in front.
If you would like to see this house you may contact the listing agent Bunny Parker or ME
Help Improve Transportation
From the website
"This October, residents of King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties are invited to participate in the LIT Challenge, a 4-week long online experiment in which 300 or more individuals will participate via the Internet at their own convenience. The purpose of this experiment is to evaluate a new and potentially more meaningful way to involve citizens in the process of regional transportation decision making."
Learn, Brainstorm & Discuss Transportation at letsimprovetransportation.org
Kings Book Store - Book Arts Auction * October 4
Raise funds for book acquisition for underfunded Tacoma school library programs by buying beautiful book art! Local artists have donated altered books, artist books, and book-themed art to be auctioned-off at 6:30 pm by auctioneer Laura Michalek.
Pieces are on display in-store and on the webpage. Pieces will be added as they are received up to the day of the auction. The fundraiser is in association with the Scholars and Champions Association.
If you would like to bid on a piece, but cannot make the auction, we accept absentee bidding! Email sweet pea for details.