Random Seattle News: Electronic Billing, Pets and Naming Parks

Finally electronic billing has arrived!

As a new option, customers of Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities now can choose to receive their bills electronically....To learn more or to sign up, visit either utility’s Web site. Seattle City Light’s is http://www.seattle.gov/light/. Seattle Public Utilities’ is http://www.seattle.gov/util/services//.

New Seattle Parks
Somehow with this big budget deficit Seattle still has the budget for more parks. I'm not complaining I personally think it's great, I just would have assumed that parks would have been the first thing to go.

The new parks are in Northgate and West Seattle. You can read all about the new parks and how to submit potential names for the new parks here

Spay or Neuter Your Pets For Free

To commemorate Feb. 24 as Spay Day USA, for the entire week of Feb. 23 through March 2, the Seattle Animal Shelter is offering certificates for free spaying and neutering to pet owners in need of financial assistance to have their pets sterilized. This offer ends at 5 p.m., Monday, March 2. For more information, call (206) 386-PETS (7387) or visit www.seattleanimalshelterorg.

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Sunny Days Ahead for Seattle

It's hard to believe that it is actually going to be in the 80's in just a few days. Some ideas for this weekend:

Get out and Play Tennis
List of Seattle Tennis Courts

Paddle around Lake Union in a Kayak
Rental Information

Walk Around Green Lake and People Watch


View Larger Map

The Japanese Gardens are open for the season

As for last Sunday March 2nd the gardens are officially open

HOURS

March: Tues – Sun 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. *
April: Tues – Sun 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
May – Mid-Aug: Daily 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. *
Mid-Aug. to Mid-Sept: Daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. *
Mid-Sept to Mid-Oct: Tues – Sun 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. *
Mid-Oct. through Nov: Tues-Sun 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. *

* Garden closing times are subject to weather, available light, and impacts of daylight savings time. The garden will close an hour early the first week in March.
Garden's Website

Seattle Parks Seeks Names For Two Parks

Seattle Press Release

Seattle Parks and Recreation invites the public to submit potential names for parks in the West Seattle and Queen Anne neighborhoods. Suggestions for names are due to the Park Naming Committee by Thursday, Nov. 1.

The following describe the parks that need new names. The park names used below are working titles:

Ercolini: In 2005, Seattle Parks acquired property at 48th Avenue SW and SW Alaska Street, West of Seattle Junction. Funding from the first cycle of the Pro Parks Levy Opportunity Fund paid for acquisition of the site, and grants from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office and a Neighborhood Matching Fund will pay for development.

Parks held several public meetings to solicit ideas on the program and design for the park. The preferred concepts include an open play meadow, children’s play structures, a sand box, a small plaza with tables and benches, a loop path and sidewalks, trees, landscaping, drainage and irrigation. Construction on the site begins in early October and will be completed in early 2008. For more information, please visit http://www.seattle.gov/parks/proparks/projects/ercoliniDev.htm

Dexter Pit: This project, located on Dexter Avenue N, north of McGraw St, develops a 56,625 square foot (1.3-acre) site into a neighborhood park. This now vacant property was used until 1987 as a gravel pit and for material storage. The site is in the process of being transferred to Parks from Fleets and Facilities.

The Pro Parks Levy provides $745,185 for planning, design and construction of this new park that was identified in the Pro Parks Art Plan as one that would have an artist collaboration. The Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs has selected Andrew Cao as the project artist to design the site. Parks has selected SiteWorkshop Landscape Architects to collaborate with the artist to develop a unified design which will support the proposed art work while addressing the environmental issues on site.

The park will be used for recreation and open space purposes, as well as to promote the value of arts and culture in and of communities throughout Seattle parks. Parks has held two of the proposed three public meetings for this project. The third meeting will be held in November 2007. Parks anticipates construction starting in April of 2008 with completion around mid July 2008. For more information please visit http://www.seattle.gov/parks/proparks/projects/dexterpit.htm

The Park Naming Committee is comprised of one representative designated by the Board of Park Commissioners, one by the Chair of the City Council Parks, Neighborhoods and Education Committee, and one by the Parks Superintendent. Criteria the committee considers in naming parks include: geographical location, historical or cultural significance, and natural or geological features. A park may be named for a person no longer living (deceased a minimum of three years) who made a significant contribution to parks and/or recreation. The Park Naming Committee will consider all suggestions and make a recommendation to the Superintendent, who makes the final decision.

Please submit suggestions for park names in writing by Thursday, Nov. 1, 2007, and include an explanation of how your suggestion matches the naming criteria. Send to Seattle Parks and Recreation, Park Naming Committee, 100 Dexter Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109, or by e-mail to paula.hoff@seattle.gov. In keeping with Seattle's "Paper Cuts" program, electronic submissions are preferred, if possible.

Help clean up Colonnade Park this Saturday

from the capitol hill yahoogroup

Your volunteer help is needed to complete this wonderful new park that
is under I-5. We must save the trees from ivy and clematis, remove
invasive blackberries and knotweed, and spread mulch. Meet at the
park's northwest corner, between E. Newton St. and E. Howe St.

We provide tools and some work gloves. You're encouraged to bring your
own gloves, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to get dirty. It's great
exercise. Make a difference! Help clean up Colonnade Park this
Saturday, Sept. 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Movies, Buskers, Free Wi-Fi and Music in the Parks

Parks and Community Partners offer Tons of Fun in Center City Parks!
Films, music, arts & farmers' markets, dancing, yoga, Minnie Driver, and more!

This summer Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Downtown Seattle Association and many other partners, offers exciting, fun activities in downtown Seattle parks that reflect Mayor Greg Nickels' initiative to revitalize and bring new life to our downtown parks.

If you haven't been downtown recently, bring the family for events ranging from movies and music to classes and competitions-there are plenty of weeks of summer left! You'll find something for everyone at these parks: Occidental Square, Hing Hay Park, Freeway Park, Pioneer Square, Westlake Park, Waterfront Park, Lake Union Park, and Victor Steinbrueck Park.

For the complete lineup, please see http://www.seattle.gov/parks/.

Movies!
Center City Cinema Outdoor Movies in the Park. All movies begin at sunset.
August 11: In the Mood for Love - Hing Hay Park
August 18: Monsoon Wedding - Hing Hay Park
August 25: SteamBoy - Hing Hay Park
Sept. 6: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring - Occidental Square
Sept. 13: Lord of the Rings: The Twin Towers - Occidental Square
Sept. 20: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King - Occidental Square
Sept. 27 To Kill a Mockingbird - Occidental Square

Buskers!
Be on the lookout between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays for buskers! These strolling artists, minstrels, mimes, and musicians will perform daily in Freeway, Hing Hay, Pioneer Square, Westlake, and Waterfront.

Wi-Fi Hot Spot!
The City of Seattle is providing free wireless Internet access in Freeway, Occidental, Westlake, and Victor Steinbrueck Parks and in the plaza at the new City Hall. Users can login using seattlewifi for the SSID.

Music!
2007 Out to Lunch Concert Series presented by Starbucks and Safeco
Concerts begin at noon, produced by the Downtown Seattle Association. For more information, please visit: www.downtownsummer.com.

Occidental Square
August 21: Mark Whitman
August 22: Little Bill & the Blue Notes
August 23: Two Scoops Combo
August 24: Left Hand Smoke

Westlake Park
August 28: Dr. Funk
August 29: Clinton Fearon & the Boogie Brown Band
August 30: Clumsey Lovers
August 31: Type A!

Freeway Park
Friday, August 17, "Out to Lunch" with musical guest Minnie Driver! Produced by the Downtown Seattle Association.

Music in the Park Lunchtime Concerts
Occidental Square
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
August 10, 17, 24, and 31; September 6 and 14.

Waterfront Park
Noon - 1:30 p.m. Adefua African Music & Dance Company presents Sunday afternoon gatherings of movement song and spirit! For more information, please call 206-722-6602.

Victor Steinbrueck Park Sounds of Steinbrueck Park Music Series
Tuesday and Thursday evenings through September. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. August 21, 23, 28, 30; September 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27.

Arts and Crafts & Farmer's Markets!
Art and Music in the Park on First Thursdays at Occidental Square
Presented by Starbucks and the Pioneer Square Community Association. Music begins at 6 p.m. For the complete lineup, please visit
www.pioneersquare.org/calendar.html
Thursday, September 6.

Saturday Market at Occidental Square
You'll find arts, jewelry, crafts, and other wonderful things.
August 11, 18, and 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Urban Gardening Classes
Container Gardening, Composting for Apartment Dwellers, Culinary Herb Gardening and Salad Gardening classes presented by Seattle Tilth. For class descriptions and to register, please go to www.seattletilth.org or call 206-633-5045, ext. 2.
- Wednesdays, Aug 15, 22 & 29, 5:30 - 7:30pm - Victor Steinbrueck Park
- Saturdays, Sept 15, 22, 29, 10 am - 12 pm - Cascade Park

Special Events!

Summer Sundays at Pike Place Market
Farmers sell at the Market every day, but look for farmers to sell on Pike Place, which is closed to vehicular traffic from Stewart to Virginia. Stop by for a noontime chef demonstration, which take place each Sunday. Shop for ingredients from the farmers, then recreate the recipe at home!
August 12, 19, and 26; September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30

Seattle Sandfest
The ultimate urban beach party will feature professional and amateur sand sculpting, live music, family activities, and more.
Westlake Park, August 25, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., organized by the Metropolitan Improvement District and managed by the Downtown Seattle Association.

Uptown Stroll, Counterbalance Park, August 25, sponsored by the Uptown Alliance and other friends of Counterbalance Park.

Homestreet Bank presents Dancing 'til Dusk
Enjoy FREE dance instruction and live music in our outdoor ballroom every Thursday in August. 6 to 9 p.m. (Instruction: 6 to 7 p.m.)
August 9: Zydeco Dance with music by Captain Leroy and the Zydeco Locals
August 16: Salsa with Tor Dietrichson's salsa band
August 23: Electric Slide & Chicago Stepping with DJ Comandr Whitehead and the Chicago Steppers
August 30: Swing with music by Casey MacGill's Blue 4 Trio

The SITE SERIES // Dance on Common Ground
Join us each week for a "new" dance as we add another dancer, change locations in the park, or re-invent our score. ParkDance is part of The SITE SERIES // Dance on Common Ground, which uses movement to encourage us all to see, explore, and appreciate our environment more fully. This series of site-specific contemporary dance performances, staged in public spaces, explores the interactions and relationships of people both to a space and to each other, and how these affect our sense of who/what "belongs" in each space. Each performance takes this question of "who/what belongs" into account as it surprises the audience with dance in unexpected places and with unexpected interactions. Part of the 4Culture King County Performance Network Site Specific Art Happenings. Performances are August 10, 13, 24 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and tentatively August 21 from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Victor Steinbrueck Park.

Other Activities

Seattle Public Library Used Book Sales, Monday - Friday, 11:30a.m. - 1:30p.m., Freeway Park

Beba's Waterfall Café & Outdoor Eats, Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.,
Freeway Park

Drop-in Board Games, Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Freeway Park

Drop-in Tai Chi Classes - Tuesdays through August 28th. noon - 1 p.m. Freeway Park

Urban Bootcamp, Victor Steinbrueck Park. To register, please call 206-547-2706 or visit www.smbgym.com

Bocce Ball Tournament - Occidental Square Quads tournament August 27 - 31. Form your own team or sign up as an individual. No experience is necessary - learn as you play! Contact Katie@pioneersquare.org to register. The deadline for submitting your entry is August 23.

Bocce Ball Practice - Occidental Square, August 23 from noon to 1 p.m. There's no
need to register, just come on down and we'll do some drills that will help improve
our bocce game. We will also spend some time on the rules and on your questions about how to play.

Drop-In Bocce - Occidental Square Bocce sets are available for checkout at the information kiosk at Occidental Square.

Comedy Lunch Hour - Victor Steinbrueck Park Thursdays noon to 1 p.m. FREE weekly comedy shows from the Comedy Underground, at the Southwest corner of the park. August 9, 23, 30; September 6, 13

Game Nights at Hing Hay Park - Hing Hay Park Tuesday evenings 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy Asian Game Nights, organized by the International District Housing Alliance (IDHA), and learn how to play traditional Asian games in Hing Hay Park. August 14 and 21

Poetry in Victor Steinbrueck Park
Scheduled poetry readings/open mic. Third Sundays, August 19th and September 16th, 4 - 6 p.m.

Yoga for Everyone - Victor Steinbrueck Park Monday, Wednesday and Friday* mornings through September 10 to 11 a.m. Come enjoy FREE yoga sessions with instructor Autumn at Victor Steinbrueck Park! Come move your body, breathe deeply, soak in the view, and take your inner exploration to the great outdoors! Class will meet rain or shine and everyone is welcome, regardless of shape, size, experience level, or physical ability. Autumn is experienced at adapting poses to individual needs, and you can do the whole class standing or seated on benches. Bring a mat, pad, or large towel if you want something between you and the ground. If you have questions, please contact Autumn at 206-697-6943 or info@homebodyyoga.com. August 10, 13, 15, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31; September 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, and 28 (*Please note: no sessions on August 17 or September 3).

Parks and Recreation extends hearty thanks to our generous and dedicated community partners:

• Downtown Seattle Association
• Pioneer Square Community Association
• Freeway Park Neighborhood Association
• Downtown District Council
• International District Housing Allowance
• Chinatown International District Business Improvement Association
• Cascade People's Center
• Uptown Alliance
• Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce
• Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority

New Park Coming to Capitol Hill

SEATTLE - Councilmember David J. Della announced the passage of legislation to acquire land in Capitol Hill for new park space. The land, currently a parking lot at 16th and Howell, will be acquired, in part, by funds from the Pro Parks Levy.

"With the density in many of our neighborhoods, it is important that we find ways to create more open space. The ability to turn a parking lot into a neighborhood park for families and children is a great opportunity," said Della. The Pro Parks Levy, approved by Seattle voters in 2000, has enabled the City to invest $198.2 million to help acquire land for parks and open space, develop hundreds of capital projects, enhance recreation programs, and improved the operations of parks throughout the city. Acquiring this property will help meet the City's goal of providing parks within walking distance for residents in our urban villages, particularly those in the Center City, and will serve the needs of families on Capitol Hill for many years to come.

"The future park site at 16th and Howell will provide another opportunity for all of Seattle's families to come together and share in a new park, adding to our city's treasured open space" said Della. "I am excited to work with the Parks Department on this project, and look forward to the positive impact this park will have on the neighborhood."

Councilmember David J. Della chairs the City Council's Committee on Parks, Education, Libraries and Labor. He is a Seattle native and a long-time community and labor activist. He is serving the Fourth year of his first term. For more information, please visit Councilmember Della's website at:
http://www.seattle.gov/council/della/

Seattle's Cal Anderson Park now has a website

Seattle's Cal Anderson Park now has a website


Picture by Bre Pettis

http://www.calandersonpark.org/index.cfm
Learn about the history of the park and local events

Upcoming Park Events

07/04/2007 Fifth Annual Capitol Hill Independence Day Community Picnic

Wednesday, 12 noon - 5 PM. The Cal Anderson Park Alliance invites everyone to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy live music, outdoor fun, and community at this all-ages celebration. Call 684-0775 for more info.

07/14/2007 Sounds Outside: A Celebration of Adventurous Music and Community

Saturday, 2-8 PM. Paul Rucker, Gust Burns, Orkestar Zirkonium, Non Grata. Monktail Creative Music Concern presents its second summer concert featuring local and regional musicians of note. Read more at the Sounds Outside website.

Summer Concerts at Othello Playground

Seattle Press Release

Seattle Parks and Recreation, in partnership with local nonprofit organizations and businesses, brings summer concerts to Othello Playground for a second summer season.

Concerts take place from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sundays June 10, July 15, August 12, and September 9, at the park, 4351 S Othello St. (at 45th Ave. S).

The concerts will feature more than a dozen performances by mostly local Southeast Seattle artists with a wide range of musical styles from jazz and blues to hip-hop and gospel.

Bring the family and a picnic lunch for a fun afternoon. for more information please call Randy Wiger, Seattle Parks, at 206-684-0775, or e-mail him at randy.wiger@seattle.gov.

June 10
2 - 3 p.m. Abrace, "Embracing the world through music"

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. The Jazz Beacons, "A rhythmic journey with eclectic stylings"

5 - 6 p.m. Momentum Jazz Quartet, "Versatile jazz which will definitely keep you moving!"

July 15
2 - 3 p.m. The Anthony Pizarro Group, "Over the edge, Latin, Pop, Jazz guitarist"

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Michael Powers Group, "Hot Latin Jazz from his new CD: Cinco de Michael"

5 - 6 p.m. Tor Dietrichson with Global Village, "World Fusion Jazz from a pioneer of the World Music genre"

Sponsors include Homesight, the Community Safety Initiative, the Mt. Baker Housing Association, and Seattle Weed & Seed.

Lineups for the August 12 and September 9 concerts will be available soon on our web site, http://www.seattle.gov/parks.

Summer Solstice Celebration at Volunteer Park Conservatory

Join Friends of the Conservatory on Thursday, June 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. as they celebrate "Homage in Green" - the splendid architectural glass installation artist Richard Spaulding created just over 25 years ago. The event takes place at the Conservatory, 1400 E Galer St. in Volunteer Park.

The Friends chose June 21, the eve of the solstice, as a fitting time to celebrate and re-dedicate "Homage in Green," the Conservatory's own celebration of light and life.

The Friends of the Conservatory is a nonprofit organization established in 1980 to advocate for the Volunteer Park Conservatory and its collections and to encourage public participation and education. For more information on the Friends of the Conservatory, please visit the FOC website: www.volunteerparkconservatory.org.

Volunteer Opportunities Available at Discovery Park

Great Winter Volunteer Opportunities Are Available at Discovery Park

2007 Discovery Park Volunteer Open House
Saturday, January 13, 1 to 3 p.m.
Interested in making a difference? Kick off the new year right by exploring the possibility of becoming a volunteer at Discovery Park. Join us for our annual open house. Meet current volunteers and find the perfect niche for your skills.

Vacant Volunteer Positions:

• Docent (volunteer naturalist - please see information below.)
• Habitat restoration steward (please see "Adopt-an-area" information below)
• Bird sightings database entry

Docent Program 2007
Interested in learning more about the flora and fauna of the Puget Sound region? Do you love sharing nature with others? Then you might be the perfect candidate for the Discovery Park docent program. Docents (volunteer naturalists) participate in 12 weeks of training and commit at least one year to volunteering at Discovery Park. Responsibilities include everything from helping children catch a tadpole for the first time to teaching the public the important role spiders play in the world. Docents help park visitors of all ages discover the wonders of nature. They do this by leading programs for school groups, teaching interpretive programs on the weekends, and staffing hands-on discovery stations in the busier areas of the park. Docents' backgrounds are as varied as the people they teach - the common thread is their desire to share nature with park visitors.
Applications are due February 1, 2007, and training starts February 21.
For more information, please call Dan Moore, the docent coordinator, at 206-386-4231, or e-mail him at dan.moore@seattle.gov

Habitat Restoration "Adopt-an-Area" Program
The purpose of Discovery Park's "Adopt-an-Area" program is to improve habitat for wildlife in the park's 550 acres. Volunteers perform a number of tasks, including removal of invasive plants, beach cleanups, and planting trees. We match people their interests and time commitments. You can volunteer as an individual or as a group.
For more information, please call Dorothy Guernsey, the "Adopt-an-Area" supervisor, at 206-386-4295, or e-mail her at dorothy.guernsey@seattle.gov.

Ron Sims calls for a Greener King County

(from King 5)
Today Ron Sims unveiled his 20 million dollar plan for a "Green infrastructure" in King County.
"Simply put, green infrastructure is the interconnected network of green spaces, the stream valleys, wetlands, parks, natural lands, open spaces and trails...." "no matter where you are in King County, you're not far away from a guaranteed natural experience forever." (Ron Sims)

Plan Includes

$2.5 million for a proposed Eastside rail trail

$1.3 million to buy 24 acres around Discovery Park

$750,000 for the Bellevue greenways and opens spaces

$400,000 to preserve Cam Kilworth in Federal Way

$300,000 to buy the Bass/Beaver/Dandy lakes complex.

Parks Kicks Off Othello Park Concerts this Sunday, Sept. 10

Seattle Press Release
Seattle Parks and Recreation, in partnership with a number of Southeast Seattle community organizations, is pleased to present the first of four concerts in Othello Park, 4351 S Othello St. (at 45th Ave. S) this Sunday, Sept. 10, from 1 to 6:30 p.m.

The lineup includes Mambo Cadillac, an Afro-Cuban vocal and instrumental group that improvises with world fusion percussionist/composer Tor Dietrichson; Grupo Bayano with guest artist Roman "Ito" Carillo, a Seattle-based African Caribbean dance and music group featuring Puerto Rican Bomba music; Global Heat, a hip-hop and jazzy dance group reminiscent of the Black-Eyed Peas and Soul Live; and Amber Tide, which myspace.com describes as "jazzy, bluesy, folksy, high-energy roots entertainment."

The concert series responds to Mayor Nickels' Southeast Seattle Action Agenda, a call to speed the revitalization of this vibrant, diverse community as it undergoes change and investment. The concerts provide active programming in parks that have experienced illegal activities in recent years, and they help increase arts and cultural opportunities and programs, promote Southeast Seattle artists, and increase connections between neighbors.

Co-sponsors of the concert series, which continues on Sundays Sept. 17 and 24 and Oct. 1, are HomeSight, the Community Safety Initiative, Mt. Baker Housing Association, Kismet Salon & Day Spa, Southeast Effective Development (SEED), Seattle Weed & Seed, and David B. Silver, D.D.S.

The concerts are free, open to the public, and appropriate for all ages. Bring chairs or a blanket, bring a picnic, and stay all afternoon-the concerts will go on, rain or shine!

Parks to Host Meeting on Green Lake Improvements

Seattle Parks and Recreation invites the community to the first of three public meetings to discuss planned improvements at Green Lake Park. The meeting will take place on Thursday, Sept. 7, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Green Lake Library, 7364 E Green Lake Drive N.

At the upcoming meeting, Parks will ask the community provide ideas for a Pro Parks Levy funded project to make improvements to the Green Lake Plaza & Shade Garden. Voters approved the project in the 2000 Pro Parks Levy. The Levy language stipulates that Parks "create passive recreational areas, gathering areas, shade garden and seating around Green Lake Community Center."

The Pro Parks Levy provides $361,000 for the design, construction and project management of the improvements. Approved by Seattle voters in 2000, the $198.2 million Pro Parks Levy funds more than 100 projects over eight years. Projects include improvements to sports fields, playgrounds, trails and community centers and parks. Funding also increases green spaces, supports Zoo programs and enhances park maintenance. This project will help build a stronger community and healthy families, one of Mayor Greg Nickel's highest priorities for Seattle.

For more information, please contact Parks Project Planner David Goldberg at 206-684-8414 or davidw.goldberg@seattle.gov, or visit the project web site at www.seattle.gov/parks/proparks/projects/greenLakePark.htm.

Seattle Parks & Recs holding workshop for ideas for Denny Park

Tell Us What You'd Like To See!
Parks and Recreation, Friends of Denny Park to hold three meetings on Denny Park project

Seattle Parks and Recreation and Friends of Denny Park will hold three public workshops to get ideas for the creation of a children's play area and multigenerational gathering area in Denny Park, Seattle's oldest park, 100 Dexter Ave. N.

The workshops will take place:

• Thursday, August 24, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Seattle Unity Church, 200 8th Ave. N.
• Thursday, September 21, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Spruce Street School, 914 Virginia St.
• Thursday, November 16, 6 to 8 p.m. at Denny Park Lutheran Church, 766 John St.

The project is funded by a $15,000 Small and Simple award from the Neighborhood Matching Fund and $100,000 from the Cumulative Reserve Fund. Parks has hired The Berger Partnership to develop schematic drawings.

For more information, please call Kate Mortensen at 283-3868.

Seward Park Beach Reopens Tomorrow

Beach has been closed because of sewage leak

Tomorrow, Wednesday, August 3, Seattle Parks and Recreation will reopen the lifeguarded Seward Park Swimming Beach on Lake Washington's Andrews Bay, which was closed on July 27 because of a sewage leak from a pump station at the park. Restrooms at the park were also closed temporarily.

The beach will be open, weather pending, for its regular hours, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Staff from King County Land and Water Resources have conducted tests on three consecutive days that indicate the water is safe, and Public Health - Seattle & King County has advised Parks that it is safe to reopen the beach.

The swimming beach and Andrews Bay are located on the west side of Seward Park near the main park entrance at 5900 Lake Washington Boulevard S.

Bring Your Bike & Join BikeMania at Magnuson Park

Grab your helmet and bike, and wheel down to Magnuson Park for our bike extravaganza called BikeMania, on Wednesday, Aug. 9, noon to 3 p.m. in Hangar 30 the park, located at 7400 Sand Point Way NE.

This FREE event is produced jointly by Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation, Trips for Kids Seattle, and Seattle Parks and Recreation's Magnuson Community Center.

Join us for an afternoon of fun and excitement, including bicycling demonstrations, stunts. jumps and tips featuring BMX Pro Rider, Nick Halsey from MacNeil Bikes. Take a "skillz and thrillz" ride in the Rodeo Stunt Course or practice street riding skills in the Tour de Magnuson outdoor guided rides. You can also play bike games and win prizes or decorate your bike and join in our annual Bike Parade! Bikes and helmets provided for the Rodeo Stunt Course only or bring your own.

Activities are for all ages and skill levels and all types of bikes. Parents/guardians must sign waiver forms if you are riding in any of the activities.

For more information, please call Magnuson Community Center at 206-684-7026.

Parks with Beaches you can visit this summer

from the seattletimes

1. Cottage Lake Park and Pool

18831 N.E. Woodinville-Duvall Road, Woodinville: Once known as Norm's Resort and dating to 1942, the 22-acre site is now a public park with a swimming pool, picnic facilities and dock. The lakefront area still has an aura of summers past when families spent lazy summers at the lake fishing, swimming and picnicking. A narrow road winds down to a boat launch; a few scattered logs lie along the gravel beach. On one recent sunny day, a family with three little girls sat on the logs watching a family of fuzzy ducklings, while three kids were paddling plastic canoes about 10 feet from shore and several others were diving off the dock.

Amenities: A swimming pool, with lifeguards, is open from 8 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. daily through the summer for an assortment of activities, including water exercises, lessons, rentals and public-swim sessions. The public-swim fee is $3.25. No lifeguard for lake swimmers. Launching area is for small, nonmotorized boats only.

2. Tracy Owen Station/ Logboom Park

6008 N.E. 175th St., Kenmore: Named after a former King County councilman and its previous use as a storage site for logs awaiting the sawmills, the 16-acre park is a favorite stop for bicyclists and pedestrians from the nearby Burke-Gilman Trail. There's a small beach area, lengthy concrete pier extending into Lake Washington, and good views of flight activity at the Kenmore Air Harbor seaplane base.

Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic tables, trail access, views of old piling left from sawmills.

3. O. O. Denny Park

12032 Holmes Point Drive N.E.: This quiet, forest-park setting is the gem of the neighborhood. The park is grassy and lush and well-shaded by many tall trees. The water lapping at the edge of the park looks inviting, but a pebbled shore makes it uncomfortable to wade with bare feet — flip-flops are a must! And be forewarned: There are no restrooms.

Amenities: Sheltered picnic area, parking, doggy waste bags.

4. Juanita Beach

9703 Juanita Drive N.E., Kirkland: A long half-circle walking dock encloses a wide swim area, with graceful cottonwood trees offering lots of shade. Problems with high bacteria levels in the water have caused occasional closures in recent years, but the water is checked regularly and no problems have been reported so far this year. Sheltered picnic areas scattered throughout this large park are a draw for family gatherings.

Amenities: Restroom, picnic tables, benches, playground for younger children, two beach volleyball courts, snack bar.

5. Waverly Beach

633 Waverly Park Way, Kirkland: Tucked away at the bottom of a hill at the edge of a residential area, this beach offers a sweeping view from the 520 floating bridge to the north end of Lake Washington. It's a favorite spot for summer camps to bring children, as it has a large swimming area enclosed by a half-circle walking dock. Children can also play on an adjacent sandy beach, while families can spread their blankets over the large grass area.

Amenities: Restroom, benches, playground, lifejacket loaner program while lifeguard is on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

6. Marina Park

25 Lakeshore Drive, Kirkland: Located in the heart of the city's downtown, this is a favorite spot for locals to take a lunch break and enjoy the public art sculptures or a stroll along the waterfront. People can wade into the water or spread out on the lawn and catch some rays. Check out the fancy yachts moored nearby. Spectacular views of Seattle and the Olympics across the lake.

Amenities: Restroom, benches, Marina Park Pavilion provides a sheltered place to have a picnic, but bring your own chairs and tables.

7. Houghton Beach Park

5811 Lake Washington Blvd. N.E., Kirkland: A popular beach that brings out families and sunbathers on warm days. Children play on a small sandy beach with adjacent shallow swim area, while a beach volleyball net and court brings out the teens. Those seeking a tan sprawl out on the larger grassy areas. Parking may be hard to find on warm summer days.

Amenities: Restroom, benches, snack bar, large playground, walking docks for a stroll over the water, lifejacket loaner program while lifeguard is on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

8. Idylwood Beach Park

3650 West Lake Sammamish Parkway N.E., Redmond: Nestled along a pricey stretch of Lake Sammamish waterfront homes, this 18-acre park is a popular spot for young children and teenagers. Dogs are allowed on the grassy area but not on the sand or in the water.

Amenities: Picnic tables, play area, restrooms and parking. Lifeguards on duty from noon to 7 p.m. daily.

9. Medina Beach Park

501 Evergreen Point Road, Medina: Tucked behind Medina's town hall and police station, a small roped-off swimming area lies next to a well-manicured lawn where sunbathers laze about while boats drift by. Parking is tight and don't expect much in the way of facilities.

Amenities: Picnic tables, water fountain. Lifeguards 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

10. Clyde Beach

2 92nd Ave. S.E., Bellevue: Right off a busy stretch of Lake Washington Boulevard, this conveniently located beach is small but great for a lazy day by the water. Ample parking, restrooms and a roped-off swimming area make this a neighborhood family pleaser. Be careful when leaving the parking lot, though, as the steep incline and sharp drop-off can mean bottoming out even a normal-size sedan.

Amenities: Picnic area, restrooms. Lifeguards on duty noon to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day.

11. Meydenbauer Beach

419 98th Ave. N.E., Bellevue: This bustling beach offers a bevy of activities. Kids will like the playground, volleyball area and lifeguarded swimming area. Everyone can enjoy the sandy beach for sunning and take advantage of the large picnic area. While there are two parking areas, the popularity of this park means getting a spot even during the weekdays can be a chore.

Amenities: Picnic area, restrooms, volleyball. Lifeguards on duty noon to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day.

12. Chism Beach

1175 96th Ave. S.E., Bellevue: It's large, close to downtown and popular with sun-seekers of all ages. Chism boasts two large picnic areas, a big beach and a large swimming area that's roped off with a shallow line, which is great for keeping kids safe. Parents and kids will also like the playground located right on the beach. There's also a dock, beautiful terraced lawns for nonswimming solace seekers and handicap parking that's convenient to all the fun.

Amenities: Two picnic areas, restrooms, playground, multiple parking lots, accessible for disabled. Lifeguards on duty noon to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day.

13. Chesterfield Beach

2501 100th Ave. S.E., Bellevue: Don't be surprised if you have trouble finding this tiny beach just north of Beaux Arts Village; the park sign is missing and local streets aren't easy to navigate. But if you're lucky enough to find it and snag one of five parking spots, enjoy the small swimming area and dock, great for a day on the lake. Lifeguard hours are limited and the only facility is a portable toilet at the top of a hill. The views and serenity may be worth the trade-off, though.

Amenities: Portable toilet, seclusion. Lifeguards on duty 2 to 5 p.m. daily through Labor Day except during inclement weather.

14. Enatai Beach

108th Avenue Southeast and Southeast Lake Road, Bellevue: This beach, partially hidden under the I-90 bridge, is definitely worth looking for. Enatai boasts more activities than some of its Bellevue counterparts and it's got an abundance of parking, too. There's a life-guarded swimming area, plus canoe and kayak rentals.

Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, canoe and kayak rentals. Lifeguards on duty noon to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day.

15. Newcastle Beach

11206 S.E. 50th St., Bellevue: Tucked behind I-405 and some railroad tracks, this big, beautiful park has volleyball nets, an enormous picnic area, a popular playground and a loop trail that winds through a wetlands area. Parking is easy and there's more than enough room for everyone to spread out.

Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms, playground, wilderness trail. Lifeguards on duty noon to 7 p.m. daily through Labor Day.

16. Pine Lake

2616 226th Ave. S.E., Sammamish: When you have a city with the highest per-capita youth population in the state, a place like Pine Lake becomes prime beach area when summer hits. Come early because it gets crowded by afternoon. This 16-acre park offers a boat launch, fishing pier and two new play areas.

Amenities: A basketball court and several picnic facilities can be reserved. Lifeguards on duty from noon to 7 p.m. daily.

17. Luther Burbank Park

2040 84th Ave. S.E., Mercer Island: Popular family park with two beach areas. If you have small kids in tow or want a traditional beach experience, go to the south parking lot (also marked overflow parking). A short trail leads to the beach. Lots of toddlers and families. Older youth frequent the north tip of the park where a grassy area includes picnic tables and a couple of trails into the water. Warning: Wear water shoes. Rocks, rocks, rocks, particularly at the north beach.

Amenities: Restrooms at the south beach area. Also tennis courts and play area. Lifeguards on duty at south beach daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Swimming area roped off into shallow and deep sections.

18. Groveland Beach

5800 W. Mercer Way, Mercer Island: Watch for the small sign. Route to the parking lot winds a couple of blocks on narrow residential streets. Walk down a steep paved roadway to the awesome beach. Volleyball court, sandy beach, grass and shade trees. Several picnic tables at beach level and several in a shady tree nook near the parking-lot level. A big playground about halfway down to the beach bakes in the afternoon sun but is popular in the morning. Nice mix of teenagers and young families.

A few drawbacks to note, though. A quirk of the water and wind currents traps debris next to the southern end of the dock. Rocky bottom in swimming area despite the sandy areas. Limited parking lot fills rapidly during swim-lesson time and on hot afternoons. A rat watched people go up and down the path to the park so be careful where you stash your picnic lunch.

Amenities: Restrooms at beach level with changing area. Lifeguard on duty daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Roped off swimming areas, dock, diving board. View of Seward Park in Seattle and the I-90 bridge.

19. Clarke Beach

7700 E. Mercer Way, Mercer Island: Don't let the steep walk to this Lake Washington beach and park keep you from enjoying a sparsely crowded spot with an unparalleled view. On a clear day, you can almost touch Mount Rainier. While lazing on the grass that goes to the water's edge, you'll see the southern shores of Bellevue and parts of Renton as well as the hills going up to The Golf Course at Newcastle. A grassy picnic area offers several tables and a barbecue grill. (Bring your own charcoal.) More picnic tables and another grill are near the water. Fans include a mix of retirees, young families and a few older teenagers. Clean water, clean grounds. Unfortunately, some dog owners ignore the "dogs not allowed May to September" signs. Steep walkway down and back up to the parking area will challenge how much stuff you carry. Rocky swim areas.

Amenities: Restrooms at the beach level with changing area. Several docks around the roped-off swimming areas. Ample parking. Drinking fountains. Large fire-pit area but bring your own chairs.

20. Lake Sammamish State Park

Among the largest Eastside recreation spots, this 512-acre park, located on the south end of Lake Sammamish, features more than 700 feet of swimming beach, sandy volleyball courts and kayak rental. But don't count on sunbathing in seclusion. Ever since the Washington Legislature did away with a mandatory $5 parking fee at state parks this year, the shores of Lake Sammamish have become even more dense.

Amenities: Two bathhouses with dressing rooms and showers; dozens of barbecue grills and picnic tables, sports fields and play areas.

21. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park

1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N., Renton: Cited in national listings as one of the best parks in the country, this beach park has nearly everything. Dedicated in 1982, the park forms a 1 ½-mile-long, 53-acre swath along the southeast end of Lake Washington, just west of Interstate 405. There are picnic tables, a paved walking trail, a guarded swimming beach, an eight-lane boat-launching ramp, piers stretching out over the water, an Ivar's restaurant for seafood and a Kidd Valley for hamburgers and even views of under-construction jets at the Boeing plant next door.

Amenities: Play equipment, picnic shelters, boat launch, tennis courts and an interpretive botanical walk. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the summer, with lifeguards on duty from noon to 8 p.m. daily.

Two new parks in Seattle

Colman School parking lot to be Jimi Hendrix Park

Seattle Parks and Recreation Superintendent Ken Bounds announced today the naming of two new parks: Jimi Hendrix Park and Chinook Beach Park.

Jimi Hendrix Park
Parks acquired this land, located next to the Colman School at 2400 S Massachusetts St. in Seattle's Central District and once the school's playground, in 1948. Then the Washington State Department of Transportation bought the land for use in staging construction of the I-90 lid project. Since 1997, Parks has leased the land from the state for parking for the adjacent Sam Smith Park. The 2000 Pro Parks Levy provided $309,300 for site improvements that include better pedestrian connections to the park and neighborhood.

The name honors the late '60s rock icon Jimi Hendrix and his childhood ties to Seattle.

Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden, a champion of naming the park after Jimi Hendrix, said "This recognition is long overdue. I'm delighted the City has finally found a fitting tribute to honor the significant historical and cultural contributions of one of our most famous native sons."

Chinook Beach Park
The City of Seattle acquired the property, located along Lake Washington at the 9500 block of Rainier Ave. S, in the 1930s when Rainier Ave. S was extended to Renton. In 1960, the then-Seattle Engineering Department transferred most of the property to Parks, which then leased the site to the adjoining AquaMarina for the moorage of small boats. This moorage was destroyed in November 2003 by severe wave action caused by high winds.

After the storm, Parks began design work on the conversion of the site to a habitat area for juvenile migrating salmon. These small fish feed and grow before they migrate through the Lake Washington Ship Canal to Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean, where they spend several years before returning as adults to spawn in the Cedar River. The project involved removal of the parking lot fill and other features from the old moorage, installation of beach gravel, planting of the hillside with native vegetation, and building a small overlook. This work was completed in late 2005.

The name honors Seattle's ties with salmon, and the role this park plays in their life cycle.

The Park Naming Committee is comprised of one representative of the Board of Park Commissioners, one representative of the Seattle City Councilmember who chairs the committee dealing with parks issues, and one representative of the Superintendent of Parks and Recreation. For more information about the park naming process, please contact Paula Hoff, Seattle Parks and Recreation, at 206-615-0368 or paula.hoff@seattle.gov.

Seattle Sculpture Park opens in October

The Seattlepi is reporting that the huge Seattle Art Museum "Olympic Sculpture Park" will be opening to the public on Saturday Oct 28th.

I am very excited about this park. It's going to completely transform what once was an ugly industrial site to a free beautiful 8.5-acre park.

Check out the Olympic Sculpture Park Web Cam