Laurelhurst Blog

Plant salvage At North Link's Brooklyn and Roosevelt Station Sites

2012-01-27T11:09:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow from 10-noon, Sound Transit is hosting a plant and landscaping materials salvage event in advance of building demolition at the sites of the future Brooklyn and Roosevelt North Link light rail stations, as part of their commitment to sustainability.

Plants, including small shrubs, and landscaping materials will be available for free on a first-come, first-served basis and Sound Transit requests no early birds.

Participants must bring their own tools such as shovels, pots and gloves, for removing and taking away the items they choose.

At the Brooklyn Station site meet in the parking lot of the Chase Bank building (4300 Brooklyn Avenue NE). Plants available include Barberry, Nandina and Boxwood.

At the Roosevelt Station site meet at 1033A NE 66th Street, across from the QFC parking lot. Plants and landscaping materials available include Yew, Bamboo, Juniper, pavers, retaining wall systems and decorative concrete edging.

Sound Transit staff will be on hand. For questions contact Kristin Hoffman at (206) 903-7401 or kristin.hoffman@soundtransit.org.

City Hall Open House Tomorrow

2012-01-27T09:53:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow from 10-2pm the Mayor is holding an Open House at City Hall (601 5th Avenue).

The agenda will include:

tours of the Mayor’s Office and City Council Offices
question and answer session with the Mayor
workshops on the legislative process and interpreting credit reports
tabling by City departments and the City Attorney’s Office
live music
a farmer’s market
food
oppportunity to learn about resources the City provides
meeting local elected officials
connecting with opportunities to make community a better place

Free Recycling Event On Saturday At Metropolitan Market

2012-01-26T09:31:00.000-08:00

One of our readers, Reilly, would like the neighborhood to know about a Recycling event going on Saturday in the parking lot at nearby Metropolitan Market (5250 40th Avenue NE) from 10-3pm.

You can drop items off to be recylced at no charge and "it will save you a trip to the dump and keep stuff out of the land fills" Reilly tells us.

1 Green Planet, a non-profit, who is hosting the event, donates a portion of their proceeds to Childrens Hospital and several other organizations.

Here is a list of the items that can be recycled at the event and you can call or email to ask about recycling for other items.:

• Any electronics, working or not, whole or in part
• Appliances – washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc.
• Electronics – televisions, stereos, etc.
• Scrap metal, machinery – circuit boards, etc.• Computers (secure data destruction) – PCs, laptops, printers,
monitors, etc.
• Batteries – car, computer, etc.
• Medical equipment
• Ink & toner• Cell phones• Vehicles
• Paper & Cardboard
• Plastics

Have You Seen This Lost Cat?

2012-01-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us email that his cat, Roscoe, is lost. He was last seen on 41st Avenue NE and NE 45th Street near the park.

Roscoe is a black and white tuxedo cat who is about one years old. The owner describes him as "very playful and rambunctious."

A reward is being offered for finding the cat.

Please call 206-659-2098 if you have information.

Give Input On Seattle Public Libraries On Saturday at Northeast Branch

2012-01-25T10:50:00.000-08:00

Seattle Public Library is holding the last of its community outreach meetings, part of the "Libraries for All: A Plan for the Present, A Foundation for the Future," on Saturday from 2-4pm at the Northeast Branch (6801 35th Avenue NE).

The community meetings are an opportunity for the public to give input on how library services can improve in four main areas - library hours, books and materials, computers and online resources, and building maintenance. There will also be a discussion of strategies to stabilize Library funding.

If you cannot attend a meeting, you can submit your feedback online.

And for more information go here or call 206-386-4636.

Roosevelt Highschool Symphony Orchestra To Perform With Seattle Symphony Tonight

2012-01-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

The Roosevelt Symphony Orchestra will be performing a free, side-by- side concert with the Seattle Symphony tonight from 7:30-8:30pm at Roosevelt High School.

Roosevelt is the reference high school for Laurelhurst. And the concertmaster of the Roosevelt Symphony is a Laurelhurst resident, Andrea, RHS orchestra booster chairperson told us.

Roosevelt High School Orchestra members and Seattle Symphony musicians will perform together on the stage during Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92.

Other pieces included in the performance will be Tchaikovsky: Allegro con spirit from Souvenir de Florence performed solely by the Roosevelt Orchestra, and Weber's Overture to Der Freischütz performed by the Seattle Symphony only.

The performance provides an opportunity for student musicians to play with and learn from professional musicians.

This free concert, and two upcoming others at other locations, are presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s Family, School & Community Programs, and provide an opportunity for student musicians to play with and learn from professional musicians.

“Music is for everybody, and we love the opportunity to take our great orchestra out of Benaroya Hall, and into schools, community centers and public spaces to share the joy of music. This is just one strand of our ever-increasing commitment to communities, families and young people," Executive Director Simon Wood said.

Parent Lecture On Importance Of Kids Sleep Tomorrow Night At Villa Academy

2012-01-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

Villa Academy (5001 NE 50th Street) is hosting another parent lecture tomorrow night from 7-9pm called "Sleep Well for School (and Life) Success."

The information says:

Over half of children don't get enough sleep, which has a big impact on their emotions, cognitive abilities, and physical coordination. All of this impairs school performance, interferes with mood, and increases risk of obesity. Catherine Darley, ND from The Institute of Naturopathic Sleep Medicine, will cover the impact of sleep, red flags of sleep problems, and how to help children get healthy sleep.

This event is free, open to the public and for parents of children age 3-14.

All About Hot Yoga Of Laurelhurst Owned By Laurelhurst Residents

2012-01-23T11:48:00.000-08:00

Lisa Every, is the owner of Hot Yoga of Laurelhurst (3513 NE 45th Street, Suite M), as well as a neighborhood resident for over 10 years, along with her husband and two children. The business opened in 2003 and Lisa became the owner in 2010.

Many of the classes take place in a 95-105 degree room, but also offered are classes are taught in warm and normal degree rooms.

Lisa, told us that most of her clients are from Laurelhurst and nearby neighborhoods, adding "We have a large and loyal Laurelhurst following."

Lisa began her yoga practice at Hot Yoga of Laurelhurst in 2003 shortly after it opened.  She started going once and worked up to three times a week and says she she found herself "more aware and present outside of the yoga studio" feeling like she was living her life rather than being overtaken by it." When the opportunity presented itself to own the business, she jumped at it.

Three to five classes are taught every day starting at 6am, which Lisa says are popular with Laurelhurst residents who take the class before going to work.   The classes are 60-90 minutes in length and some of the ones offered are Hot Yoga, Hot Hatha, Vinyasa,  Warm Yoga, Yin/Yang,  Core Sculpt, Non Heated Yoga, Yoga Dance.

According to the website, some of the benefitsof hot yoga are the body burning fat more effectively and in a very short time due in part to increased metabolism,  greater range of movement with less chance or injury, more oxygen delivered to various tissues, muscles, glands and organs, encouraged focus and concentration, thorough workout for cardiovascular system and detoxification and elimination through the skin through sweating.

For more information check out the website or call 206-522-5080.

Seattle Public Library Now Offers Free Online Videos

2012-01-23T11:06:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Public Library now offers Access Video, an online collection featuring more than 8,000 full-length videos from many well-known producers.

Each film in the Access Video collection is free and no holds or waiting is required.

The collection includes documentaries, performance videos, biographies, travel and educational films covering a wide range of topics from BBC, NOVA, Ken Burns, A&E and many more.

To view online videos from Access Video, go to Access Video found on the Seattle Public Library website.

A Library card and personal identification number are needed to view the collection of videos.

For more information, call The Seattle Public Library at 206-386-4636.

Eaglet In Snowy Tree On East Laurelhurst Drive

2012-01-20T08:25:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us this picture of an eaglet yesterday commenting: "This young eagle was perched on East Laurelhurst Drive. We have had lots of eagle action here, lately."

Digital Camera Found Yesterday Near Battelle

2012-01-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

A reader let us know that she found a digital camera yesterday near Battelle.

It has pictures of 2 children and a golden retriever playing in the snow.

Contact 524-1928 if it is yours.

Readers Past Memories of Buses and Cars Stalling On NE 45th Every December

2012-01-20T08:22:00.000-08:00

Picture from Wednesday of this week

A reader sent us an interesting account of her memories of steep NE 45th every winter:

Some things never change! I have always remembered being at Children's Hospital as a pediatric resident, when there was a big snow storm at the end of December/first of January.

Several of us stood at the windows of the 0 - 6 months ward, which looked out onto NE 45th.

The buses got stuck going up the hill or slid around coming down, as did most cars which tried it.

So the blog brought back lots of memories!

Chinese New Year Celebration At Talaris On Sunday

2012-01-20T08:15:00.000-08:00

Sunday from 1-5pm will be the 6th annual Chinese New Year celebration at WuHsing Tao Acupuncture School (4000 NE 41st Suite, Suite D) on the Talaris campus.

Activities during the celebration will be:

Tarot Reading
Lion Dance
Zodiac Forecast
Calligraphy
Mask Painting
Drumming
Poetry
Raffle Prizes

For more information go here or call 324-7188.

Metro Bus Jack Knifes And Cars Abandoned On NE 45th Street Yesterday

2012-01-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Metro Bus jacknifed on NE 45th Street yesterday

A Metro Bus jacknifed yesterday morning trying to climb the NE 45th Street hill and was still there with flashing lights last night.

Two other cars were also left on the hill with no drivers in sight.

One car was trying to climb the hill last night and pass the bus and couldn't make it up then let his car back up onto a curb and got out and walked home.

Another black car pointing down hill was there since morning up on the curb.

Sledders yesterday

Metro Bus and car stuck on NE 45th Street yesterday

Biker going down NE 45th Street with spikes on the wheels

Bus and black car stuck on NE45th Street

Bus and silver car stuck on NE 45th Street

Sledders at the park last night

NE 45th Street yesterday

Middle School Age Boys in Laurelhurst Park Endangering Motorists Reader Reports

2012-01-19T09:41:00.000-08:00

We received this email from a reader recently on the dangers of middle schoolers throwing snowballs at passing motorists:

I just came home from walking my dog in Laurelhurst Park between 1:30 and 2pm today (Tuesday). There was a group of 7 middle school (my estimate) boys throwing snowballs at vehicles passing between the park and Laurelhurst Elementary.

As I passed, I casually mentioned to them that that's not a good idea as there are little ones on the sidewalks just getting out of school and they could cause an accident where someone would get hurt. I continued on a little bit and they just pressed on. So I went back to them and very pointedly told them they must stop. I asked them if any of them were drivers (blank looks) and told them that that kind of distraction could easily cause an accident. I suggested that I was pretty sure their parents would not approve.

Most stepped back. One argued incoherently. They stopped momentarily. Then restarted awhile later. Saw me again. Then stopped. And then as soon as I left the park started up again. I called 911 amd made a report. But I'm pretty sure the cops have better things to attend to today. Seriously -- what a waste of resources.

Please talk to your kids. I get that they think throwing snowballs is harmless but in the wildly variable and changinge road conditions with people rushing around to get ready for snowpocalypse the consequences of such a simple action could be unexpected and tragic

Safety Tips During This Winter Storm

2012-01-18T08:22:00.000-08:00

Laurelhurst Park on Monday

The Mayor's Office sent out some helpful information earlier this week with some recommendations for residents during this winter storm:

Consider options now for travel, staying off the roads if possible.
Move cars off streets, if possible, to aid with snow removal.
Check on neighbors, especially the vulnerable.
Wrap pipes and outdoor faucets to prevent ruptured pipes and flooding inside homes.
Turn faucets to a slow drip to prevent pipes from freezing.
Be careful when choosing how to heat or light homes. Open flames and unattended candles are dangerous. Do not bring open stoves or gas grills inside as the fumes can be poisonous and deadly.
Find and clear street storm drains. Snow followed by rain can clog drains and cause flooding.
Have coats, hats, gloves and blankets at hand to stay warm during possible power outages.
Bring pets indoors
Only call 911 in a life-threatening emergency.
Businesses and residents are reminded to keep their sidewalks clear to help pedestrians walk safely. Pedestrians should be cautious on snow or ice covered surfaces.

And some helpful websites:

Seattle Department of Transportation's interactive map to help track which streets have been plowed and de-iced recently.
For up-to-date information on SDOT’s response activities and roadway conditions go here.
Check current traffic conditions and roadway webcams and pictures on SDOT’s Traveler’s Map.

Laurelhurst Real Estate Recap Of 2011

2012-01-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Kim Dales for providing us with this neighborhood real estate recap of 2011:

Real Estate Recap 2011

As we welcome the new year I wanted to provide everyone with a statistical overview of real estate activity in Laurelhurst over the past 13 months.

The following graphs in a nutshell represent a comparison of number of homes sold, listed, days on market, price per square foot and average price of sold homes:

April 2011 had the highest number of sold homes (12)
June had the highest number of homes on the market (22)
Volume of sales were down from 2010 by 50%
Average price per square foot was down 14.9%
Average days on market were down 40.4% which is a positive indicator that buyers are interested in
purchasing in Laurelhurst
Average sold price was down 12.5%

As we enter into 2012 the improved national jobless rate paired with continued historically interest rates should result in a healthier real estate market. There was a home listed in Laurelhurst in mid December that was on the market less than 12 hours before it received an offer, very close to the asking price, and another home that had 2 offers on Christmas Eve and is now pending. All predictors of a healthy 2012.

I wish all of you a very Happy New Year. If you have any questions regarding the overview of the market please feel free to contact me at 206.235.7772 or kodales@windermere.com.

50+ Class Fitness Classes May Be Cancelled

2012-01-17T11:39:00.000-08:00

One of our readers, Nancy, wrote to us to say that the Age 50+ classes for Aerobics and Strength Training are in jeapordy of being cancelled due to not enough students.

"This is very sad as many of our residents, who do not drive walk to these classes. I have taken them for several years and find them excellent. Let's keep our center open for all ages," Nancy told us.

Here are the classes offered that run until March:

Aerobics
# 78685
Thursdays 8:45am to 9:45am
Low impact class to improve cardio/strength.
$35

Strength & Conditioning
# 78627
Fridays 8am to 9am
First half is aerobic warm up, second half is learning strength building.
$40

Register online or by calling the Laurelhurst Community Center at 684-7529.

For questions about the classes e-mail me nao2@comcast,net or call 527-3165.

New Kids Ballet Classes Starting Next Week At The Community Center

2012-01-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

Two new ballet class for ages 2 1/2 to 5 years old start next week taught by Amber Corriston, who has recently moved to Laurelhurst from New York City with her family.

Amber and her husband were professional dancers and dance instructors in New York City and Amber began student teaching as a teenager, starting with younger kids classes. She told us she enjoys teaching older kids and adults as well, but said she loves to give the little ones skills that not only create a love for dance in them, but also skills that are important as they enter school and interact independently with teachers and peers.

She added "They are also just plain cute and grow so much, even in an 8-week session."

The classes she is offering at the Community Center are ballet-based, and are combined with creative movement and upbeat music. Kids will learn the ballet basics while exploring new movement concepts and getting lots of exercise. They are a great way to introduce children to the world of dance and movement.

Amber said that she is "excited to offer dance classes at the Community Center. It's a shame that it's such a beautiful space and no one is using it. There are so many kids in the Laurelhurst area that should have more opportunities to take classes there."

She said she was introduced to the space when teaching private lessons and added that "not only is it a great space that should be used by the community, but classes in community centers are a great way to introduce children to new activities before signing up for a class that is more in depth or more of a time commitment."

Here is the information on the classes:

Creative Movement and Ballet - Course #81094 (1/17-3/13)
Tuesday's 1:45-2:30 pm
Ages: 4 Yrs. to 5 Yrs.
Activity Fee $70.00
Description:
Preschool children learn basic ballet skills in a creative, fun environment. Through fantasy and games, boys and girls learn basic movement skills and vocabulary. Please wear close fitting clothes with bare feet or ballet slippers. No class 2/21. Instructor: Amber Corriston

Creative Movement and Ballet - Course #81095 (1/17-3/13)
Tuesday's 2:30-3:15 pm
Ages: 30 Mos. to 42 Mos.
Activity Fee $70.00
Description:
Preschool children learn basic ballet skills in a creative, fun environment. Through fantasy and games, boys and girls learn basic movement skills and vocabulary. Please wear close fitting clothes with bare feet or ballet slippers. No class 2/21. Instructor: Amber Corriston

Register on-line or by calling the Laurelhurst Community Center at 684-7529.

Laurelhurst Next To Participate in Solarize Seattle, Registration Starts Next Week

2012-01-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

Kathy, a Laurelhurst resident and and homeowner with solar PV, wanted to pass along to the neighborhood that Laurelhurst is one of several NE neighborhoods selected in the state, to be part of the Northeast Neighborhood Solarize Project, which brings neighbors together to enjoy significant discounts through the group purchase of solar systems.

The program is open to the public with registration starting January 17th through April 23rd.

After attending the workshop, potential participants are eligible to receive a free site assessment from the installation team, who will come to evaluate the home for solar and work with the participant to determine the best system for their needs and budget. Once a contract is signed, the installation team will schedule the discounted solar system installation.

The first of several free workshops to learn about solar energy and this limited time opportunity will be held on January 28th at Meadowbrook Community Center from 11-12:30pm.

The program, open to businesses and residences in 98105, 98115, and 98125 zip code, is put on by  a partnership between Northwest SEED, Sustainable NE Seattle, A&R Solar, and NW Wind & Solar.

"The Solarize initiative provides a streamlined process through which neighbors can collectively decide where to start, how to budget, what to buy, and who to hire," the information says.

Recently a solar system was installed in a house in the nearby Windermere neighborhood that will generate 7,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.

Tracy with NW Wind & Solar, one of two installers chosen for the upcoming Solarize Seattle, told us that the homeowners said that "This year, with decreasing prices and some subsidies, it became a break-even proposition.  Initially, we enjoyed just watching our meter run backwards. After the first full month, the system is working well and we got 25 percent more power than we had projected due to a mild, sunny month.”

Queen Anne was the first neighborhood project to be "solarized" as part of this unique program with the installation of solar on 150+ homes.

For more information on Solarize Seattle Northeast go here.

Update on Construction At Children's Hospital

2012-01-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

Aerial photo taken November 15, 2011, showing the new structure with all of the steel beams in place at its topped-out height.

Work continues on the excavation for, and forming of, a retaining wall on the west side of the existing Train building scheduled to be completed by Friday. The wall will have an embossed design in the concrete to keep with the natural elements at the hospital. Over time the wall will be obscured by plants that grow over it.

The installation of structural steel is complete but crews are still finalizing the welding and metal decking activities. The cladding steel supports the exterior walls and window system. Crews are currently installing the metal stud-framed walls that will make up the interior and exterior framing of the building.

Crews are also installing fireproofing on the interior and exterior steel. They are working primarily behind the fabric that is hanging from one floor at a time which will end next month.

Work is underway on the sky bridges that connect the current facility with the new structures. These two new skybridges will incorporate natural light, art and interactive elementsso that pedestrians can appreciate the beautiful views.

The fifth floor sky bridge will connect the inpatient rooms and the services that patients and families regularly require, such as the cafeteria and the Family Resource Center. And the fourth floor sky bridge will offer the same for critical care patients, who need private aUccess to beds and equipment.

For more information check out the Hospital's Weekly Construction Bulletin, which is part of their regularly updated Construction Blog.

(photo courtesy of Construction Blog)

Two Laurelhurst Youth Performing In Local Production of Annie

2012-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

Claire Colee and Whitney Nagle

Two Laurehurst girls, Claire Colee and Whitney Nagle, will be performing in Broadway Bound Children's Theatre's production of Annie starting Friday and running through Sunday, January 22nd at the Broadway Performance Hall on Capitol Hill..

Claire and Whitney, both 11 years old, have been involved with Broadway Bound for four years and became interested in acting after having seen other Broadway Bound performances, Jordan, Program Coordinator with Broadway Bound told us.

The girls, along with about two hunded other young actors from age five to sixteen, rehearse twice a week for two hours each day for about twelve to fourteen weeks. A month before the show, there are often week-end rehearsals. And the week leading up to the performances, the actors are "pretty much in the theatre all night, every night. They each get four performances," Jordan said.

There is also a condensed version of "Annie" for kids in Kindergarten through 4th grade called "Annie JR." Sandy, a Laurelhurst mom, told us her daughter Frances Thompson is in it, along with Taylor Cravy and a few other kids from the neighborhood. Tickets for this show are only $12 and can be purchased here.

Broadway Bound, founded in 1996, will be the last Seattle-area theatre to present Annie, a classic musical set in Depression-Era New York City, before it makes its return to Broadway later this year, according to the Musical Theatre International website. Once it returns to Broadway, it will become unavailable to other theatres.

Tickets to Annie are $17.50 and are available through Brown Paper Tickets or by phone at 1.800.838.3006.

Broadway Bound Children’s Theatre serves more than 1,000 young artists each year (ages 5-18) from more than 100 public and private schools. Any child who auditions becomes part of the acting company. Professional theatre artists from Seattle’s arts community mentor Broadway Bound students.

Broadway Bound Children’s Theatre has received funding from several foundations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, John Graham Foundation, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, the Washington State Arts Commission and others.

New City Web Site Promotes Walking In And Around Seattle

2012-01-10T11:29:00.000-08:00

Aging and Disability Services, a division of the Seattle Human Services Department, has partnered with the City’s Department of Information Technology to establish a new website to promote walking organizations, events, and resources for all ages, and especially for older adults.

The website, part of Encore, Seattle’s Web portal for people age 50+, includes links to local walks and hikes, neighborhood walking maps walking events, and volunteer opportunities like shelter dog walking as well as a selection of 5Ks and 10Ks by month.

Encore provides older adults with access to thousands of resources, such as Lifelong Recreation, Volkssport, Work & Money, Arts & Recreation, and Health & Fitness.

Northeast Library Classes Offered This Month

2012-01-09T13:31:00.000-08:00

Here is a list of some of this month's classes scheduled at the NE Branch (6801 35th Avenue NE) of the Seattle Public Library.

For a complete list of all classes, storytimes and other events offered go here.

January 11th 3:30-5:30pm
Computer Basics - learn how to begin using a computer, practice using a mouse and keyboard

January 11th 6:30pm-7:30pm
Seattle Opera Preview - Giuseppe Verdi's "Attila" - work of historical fiction featuring Attila, King of the Huns, and his conquering hordes. Preview will include recorded musical excerpts designed to enhance the enjoyment and appreciation of the production.

January 19th 6-7:30pm
Web 2.0 Basics - learn about the newest generation of websites including blogs, Wikis, Facebook and more

January 30th 6-7:30pm
Downloading E-books and audiobooks - tips for downloading and finding them

Are Bee Hives Allowed In The Neighborhood?

2012-01-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Community Club forwarded us some information received from the Department of Development and Planning, after an inquiry from a neighbor about restrictions on having a bee hive on her property.

LCC told us they first tried to track down information on bee hives in the municipal code and came up with nothing. Then, they contacted the director of the Department of Planning and Development and one of the staff members found the beekeeping code provision for LCC.

LCC thought this information might be helpful to others:

Here’s an excerpt from section 23.42.052 of the Seattle Land Use Code:

E. Beekeeping. Beekeeping is permitted outright as an accessory use, whenregistered with the State Department of Agriculture, provided that:
1. No more than four hives, each with only one swarm, are allowed on lots ofless than 10,000 square feet.
2. Hives shall not be located within 25 feet of any lot line except whensituated 8 feet or more above the grade immediately adjacent to the grade ofthe lot on which the hives are located or when situated less than 8 feetabove the adjacent existing lot grade and behind a solid fence or hedge six(6) feet high parallel to any lot line within 25 feet of a hive andextending at least 20 feet beyond the hive in both directions.
If the lot happens to be 10,000 sq. ft or greater, then there is no limit on the number of hives so long as the setback requirements are met.

(clipart courtesy of http://www.clker.com/)

Memorial For Former Pinochhio's Toys Owner Tomorrow

2012-01-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

Alixandra Beuche, granddaughter of Judith Beuche, a long time resident of the Laurelhurst community and owner of Pinocchio's Toys for 38 years formerly located on Blakely Avenue, would like to let the community know about a memorial gathering for her grandmother tomorrow, who passed away in October.

The memorial will be at 13 Coins Restaurant (125 Boren Ave. North) from 2-4pm tomorrow. And Alix says that she and her mother, Kim, would like to invite members of the community to this event which is open to anyone who loved her grandmother and their family business.

She adds:

Judith Anne Beuche owned Pinocchio's Toys and lived in Laurelhurst for over thirty years. Toys were her passion and her store was adored by the community. She loved working with children and believed in the ability of toys to nurture the imagination and encouraged the young minds of tomorrow to never forget its power. She loved red geraniums, artichokes, her home and above all her family.

Judy was a mother and grandmother and was a huge part of our lives. She always reminded us to approach the world and its challenges with love and acceptance. She was a strong woman who believed in the value of love above all things. If there was anything she would want us all to remember, it is to never forget to love each other unconditionally.

It is because of her steadfast belief in the goodness of other people that she overcame immense challenges and accomplished everything she set her mind to. She was the toy store lady to many, the lady in red to a few and a mother to us.

In memory of Judy, we will enjoy her favorite music, flowers and food tomorrow at 13 Coins. Please join us to rejoice in her legacy as the owner of one Seattle's most treasured independent businesses and beloved member of this community!

Here is their facebook page.

Free Electronics Recycling Tomorrow

2012-01-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow from 10-3pm, Faith Lutheran Church (8208 18th Avenue NE) is holding a free recyling event in conjunction with 1 Green Planet.

The information sent to us says:

Bring your recyclable items (working or not !) to the event . All recycling services are FREE !

Proceeds from recycled raw materials fund operations and benefit local charities, homeless
shelters, and food banks. Seattle Children’s Hospital and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital
are among those assisted through your recycling donations.

1 Green Planet, a public non-profit, offers free drop-off recycling, as well as free pick-ups for the public. Call 425-996-3513 or email (info@1greenplanet.org) to schedule a pickup.

Register Now For Variety Of Fitness Classes At Laurelhurst Community Center

2012-01-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

Here is the line-up of adult fitness classes starting this and the coming weeks at the Laurelhurst Community Center (4554 NE 41st Steet).

Barre Conditioning
This class features light weights, isometric and is easy on the joints. Exercises are done at the barre and floor and incorporates Pilates, yoga, weights, stretching, and intense muscle work to fatigue.
All levels welcome. No class 1/16, 2/20.Instructor: Laura Martin
#78671 1/6 – 3/9              Fri           9:30 – 10:30 am   $100
#78677 3/16 – 4/13         Fri           9:30 – 10:30 am   $50
#78673 1/9 – 2/27            Mon      10 – 11 am   $60
#78674 3/5 - 4/9               Mon      10 – 11 am
$60 Drop in fee $15 per session

Mat Pilates
The class includes upper and lower body exercises and balance techniques. Participants must have taken beginner class to register for intermediate/ advanced class. Please bring a 2 lb weight to class.
Instructor: Laura Martin
Location: Multi-Purpose Room

Beginner
#78688                  1/3 – 3/6              Tue        10:30 – 11:30 am   $100
#78689                  3/13 – 4/10         Tue        10:30 – 11:30 am   $50

Intermediate/Advanced
#78690 1/3 – 3/6              Tue        9:30 – 10:30 am   $100
#78693 3/13 – 4/10         Tue        9:30 – 10:30 am   $50
#78692 1/5 - 3/8               Thu        10:15 – 11:15 am   $100
#78694 3/15 – 4/12         Thu        10:15 – 11:15 am   $50

Drop in fee: $15 per session

You can register here.

Give Input On Seattle Public Library Services At Upcoming Meetings

2012-01-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Seattle Public Library is holding three upcoming meetings, as part of the "Libraries for All: A Plan for the Present, A Foundation for the Future."

The community meetings are an opportunity for the public to give input on how library services can improve in four main areas - library hours, books and materials, computers and online resources, and building maintenance. There will also be a discussion of strategies to stabilize Library funding.

Here is the schedule:

January 7th, Saturday 10-noon Central Library (1000 Fourth Ave., Microsoft Auditorium (206-386-4636)
January 14th, Saturday, 12-2pm Beacon Hill Branch (2821 Beacon Ave. S. (206-684-4711)
January 18th, Wednesday 6-8pm Ballard Branch (5614 22nd Ave. N.W. (206-684-4089)

If you cannot attend a meeting, you can submit your feedback online here. "Your input is very important," the website says.

For more information go here or call 206-386-4636.

Kids Art Classes Start Tomorrow At The Community Center

2012-01-04T07:01:00.000-08:00

Katrina Strand, a Laurelhurst Mom, is starting her series of children's art classes for 2-5 year olds, called Create Art With Kids, on Thursdays starting tomorrow at the Laurelhurst Community Center.

She told us that for this upcoming winter session she is teaching two classes, which will feature new projects and techniques.

Katrina double-majored in Fashion Design and Apparel Merchandising and holds degrees from Purdue and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She has an art minor from Purdue and has taught art to young children while in High School and College. She currently stays home with her two young children.

Create art with kids Ages: 2 - 5

Session #1# 78683    1/5 – 2/9        Thu        10 - 10:45 am   $60
# 78684    1/5– 2/9         Thu        11 - 11:45 am   $60

Session #2# 81244    3/1 – 4/5       Thu        10 - 10:45 am   $60
# 81245    3/1– 4/5        Thu        11 - 11:45 am   $60

You can sign up online or in person at the Laurelhurst Community Center Monday-Friday 9 am - 2 pm, or by calling 206-684-7529 during these hours or by also calling the Magnuson Community Center at 206-684-7026 or registering in person that Community Center.

Katrina told us that since the class is under enrolled this session students can attend the first class and try it for $2.

Renovation To Start In June At Laurelhurst Elementary's North Playground

2012-01-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Elementary School Playground Renovation Committee sent us an exciting update with the news that the renovation of the North Playground will start this summer.

Plans for the first phase, starting in June with completion in September, include an expanded play area with a new ADA compliant play structure, and repaired and resurfaced asphalt and lines on the entire grounds.

Phase 2 planning and fundraising will begin shortly after completion of the first phase, with a spring walk-a-thon and pancake breakfast. The second phase will include an outdoor amphitheater and a new entry plaza.

Catty Collee, told us that "We are fortunate to have received a Department of Neighborhoods Matching Funds Grant to help us with our project."

Seattle Children’s Hospital recently made a donation of $5,000 to the renovation.

Fundraising for the north playground has been ongoing for several years, with previous ice-cream fundraisers, a golf tournament last fall and the year before, both at the Sand Point Country Club, and a gear sale held last spring.

The south playground renovation was completed 2 years ago and has been enjoyed not only by students, but also by the community with its new equipment and re-surfacing.

If you are interested in being a member of the playground renovation committee, or have questions, contact Catty Colee at c.colee@comcast.net or Robert King at robertkingjr@comcast.net.

What SomeNeighborhood Kids Did Over Winter Break

2012-01-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

pictured left to right are: Tommy Garvey, Asher Garvey, Anna Edelman, Pallas Garvey, Eden Anne Bauer

Laurelhurst mom, Anita Nadelson Garvey, sent us this email about goings on in family over the holidays:

With all the posts about thefts I thought I'd send along a little positive neighborhood activity.

My 3 children and a few friends started working on making a big pile of holiday cards during Thanksgiving weekend. During the first week of winter break, they spent several afternoons walking the neighborhood and selling the cards.

They raised $91.09 which they are donating to PAWS.

Above is a picture of them hard at work. They'd like to thank to everyone who donated!

Attempted Break-In Around Christmas

2012-01-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

We received this email from a reader:

House break-in interrupted
12/23 on Surber Drive at 10am

Two Asian males and a Polynesian man circled my house looking in all the windows and were on the front porch when my neighbor, who had been watching from his house, came by and asked them what they they were doing, why was their license plate covered on their car parked in my driveway and suggested that they leave.

He took the plate number, which the police ran when they arrived, called by my alarm company. These guys are known to the police and are from the Des Moines area. I can only assume they were going to kick in the front door and grab and go.

The police said we should keep our out for a dark blue honda with license plate number ending in 2726 and call them if they are seen again.

We are grateful our neighbor saved our holiday from being ruined.

Happy Holidays From Laurelhurst Blog Staff!

2011-12-23T08:28:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Blog staff will be on vacation and will return to posting on January 3rd, 2012.

In the meantime, please keep sending us your informative emails and we look forward to responding. We look forward to publishing more posts when we return.

Happy New Year!

Holiday Lights Stolen From Front Yards

2011-12-22T10:59:00.000-08:00

We've received a few emails recently from neighbors about holiday lights being stolen:

On 42nd Avenue NE. someone stole a red three candy cane set of outdoor lights on 12/19/2011. How low can you go? Not a big deal but kind of troublesome.

A neighbor around the 4500 block of 54th Avenue N.E. was surprised to find the Christmas lights were stolen off the bushes in their front yard last night.... Were there any Grinch sightings in the neighborhood the last few days?

There seems to be an increasing number of thefts from outdoor Christmas displays this year. One house that has an extensive display in the 4100 block of 42nd Avenue NE, lost a lighted Santa off of their front porch. Other neighbors elsewhere in Laurelhurst have reported stolen lights and wreaths.

Unfortunately last year as well, a reader wrote to us of lights being vandalized.

Five Laurelhurst Residents Perfoming In The Nutcracker

2011-12-22T10:58:00.000-08:00

Eleanor pictured in green at left

We have learned that five girls from Laurelhurst are currently performing in the Nutcracker at McCaw Hall. Two attend Laurelhurst Elementary, one is at Seattle Prep, and the other two are at Hamlin Robinson and UCDS.

One of the dancers, Eleanor Pearson, who is a student at Villa Academy, sent us her interesting account of performing in the Nutcracker:

This year, I am so excited because I am in PNB's production of 'The Nutcracker' again. I have loved every minute of the audition, the rehearsals and the performances.

I am cast as one of the two teenagers this year - we are Clara's friends in the Party Scene, and we dance with her as well as with the other party guests. My dress is green, my shoes are green (they have to be specially dyed to match the dress) - and my headpiece is green too. My hair is in ringlets: I won't let my mom do it of me because she always hurts me when she does it, so some of her friends had to learn how to do it so they can do it instead! We use loads of really strong hairspray, which keeps the curls in, but makes your hair feel like straw.

The 'Nutcracker' is a great show for all ages - the scenery, costumes, music and (of course) the dancing are all beautiful. I guarantee you will love it.

Eleanor is performing in one of 200 roles danced by students and professionals in the annual show created by Founding Artistic Director Kent Stowell with sets and costumes by internationally famous author/illustrator Maurice Sendak.

(Photo courtesy of Angela Sterling)

Holiday Recycling And Garbage Tips From Seattle Public Utilities

2011-12-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Seattle Public Utilities posted some holiday recyling tips for customers:

Seattle residents can always recycle as much as they want at no extra charge. Simply put additional recyclables in sturdy bins or boxes next to your recycling cart on your regular collection day.

Remember to flatten empty cardboard boxes and do not put recyclables inside of bags.

Carts need to be put out by 7 am on collection day.

Common holiday items that go in Recycling:
• Clean pie tins, plastic deli/veggie trays and lids (wider than 3 inches), empty eggnog cartons, paper, plastic and metal cups, bottles, cans, jars, and tubs; catalogs, greeting cards, envelopes, cardboard, clean aluminum foil, gift wrap, plastic grocery bags (bundle and tie together) and glossy/shiny shopping bags (reduce waste and bring your own reusable shopping bag instead).

All food scraps and yard clippings can go in your Food and Yard cart, including:
• Figgy pudding, fruitcake, mistletoe, wreaths, bones, meat, cheese, seafood, fruit and vegetables. Paper bags and napkins can also be composted, as well as greasy cardboard pizza boxes.

For Drop-off Recycling Locations for hard-to-recycle items go here and click on “How do I dispose of this?
Items include:
• TVs, cell phones and other electronics, as well as Styrofoam, batteries and other items.

Holiday items that go in the Garbage include:
• Ribbons and bows, burned out holiday lights, alkaline batteries and Styrofoam packaging.
• Fats, oil and grease should be placed in a lidded container and placed in the garbage.

Sign Up For Winter Lifelong Recreation Classes Now

2011-12-20T06:50:00.000-08:00

Cheryl, Recreation Specialist with Seattle Parks' Lifelong Recreation, would like to remind readers 50 and over about the upcoming winter classes at the Laurelhurst Community Center.

Here is the lineup:

Monday and Wednesday, 7:35 am, Earlybird Aerobics with Liz Vaulari. Classes begin January 4. Sign up separately for Monday or Wednesday. Cost $65 for 11 weeks.
Tuesday, 8 am, Gentle Yoga with Judith Robin. Class begins January 3, cost $45 for 11 weeks.
Thursday, 8:45 am, Senior Aerobics with Jane Shearer. Class begins January 5, cost $35 for 11 weeks.
Thursday, 5 pm, Gentle Yoga with Judith Robin. Class begins January 5, cost $45 for 11 weeks.
Friday, 8 am, Strength and Conditioning with Jane Shearer. Class begins January 6, cost $40 for 11 weeks

All classes start the week of January 3rd and end March 16.

For more details on these classes and more, check out the Lifelong Recreation Winter Brochure online or call Cheryl at 386-9106.

Gift Found At Laurelhurst Park

2011-12-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

A reader found an item in the park on Friday around 4pm at the south end by the steps on the east corner.

The item is a Christmas gift and says "To Kylie From Katie" and the reader believes that someone must have lost it on their way home.

If this is your item, please contact laurelhurstblogger@gmail.com and we will put you in touch with the reader.

All Ages Games And Fun Event At The Northeast Branch Library Tomorrow

2011-12-19T07:16:00.000-08:00

The Northeast Branch (6801 35th Avenue N.E.)of the Seattle Public Library is having an " All Ages Games and Fun" event for the whole family tomorrow from 1-4pm.

There will be video games, table games and crafts. Snacks will be provided.

The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required. Free parking is available in the branch parking lot.

Children's Storytime Tomorrow At Center For Urban Horticulture's Miller Library

2011-12-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

Miller Library, located at the Center for Urban Horticulture (3501 NE 41st Street), is holding their monthly storytime tomorrow at 10:30am.

This month's theme is Welcoming Wildlife. Childrens will hear stories of wild animals and kids who love them. After the stories, kids can play with tree blocks, as well as color, and impersonate their favorite animal by having their face painted.

Books to be read are:
CHIPMUNK SONG by Joanne Ryder
ON MEADOWVIEW STREET by Henry Cole
OWL MOON by Jane Yolen
IN THE SNOW: WHO'S BEEN HERE? by Lindsay Barrett George

Community Carol Sing A Long On Sunday At St. Stephens Church

2011-12-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

Les Martin, Director of Music, as well as organist and choirmaster, at St. Stephens Church (4805 NE 45th Street) would like to invite the Laurelhurst community to their annual old-fashioned carol sing around the organ at 4pm on Sunday followed by refreshments.

He says "We hope that many of our neighbors will come and enjoy being in each others' company as we sing traditional seasonal carols, and adjourn for refreshments and conversation following."

Les will also play some short improvisations on carols and talk about how the mechanical-action pipe
organ works.

November Laurelhurst Real Estate Recap

2011-12-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Kim Dales for providing us with this neighborhood real estate activity monthly report:

November brought beautiful fall colors and too much rain, but as you can see from my charts below, we had five new listings in Laurelhurst, fiour homes and one townhome/condo in Laurel Estates. Two out of these five went under contract by the end of the month!

Last year in November there were no new listings. One can surmise that the current market with historically low interest rates may be a factor in both listings and sales. Pending days on market also decreased significantly from November 2010, to November 2011 from an average of 48 days on Market to an average of only 23 this November.

Hopefully the reduction in our national jobless rate, and continued low interest rates will continue to keep our market strong.

I will be posting an end of the year market review with my 2012 predictions the end of December. Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday season.

New Listings

Price Range                        Quantity
$750,000 - $799,999                  2
$800,000 - $849,999                  1
$850,000 - $899,999                  1
$1,5000,000 - $1,750,000          1
Total                                          5

Average Price: $967,800

Pending Inspection

Price Range                           Quantity                Average DOM*
$850,000 - $899,999                     1                               34

Pending
Price Range                            Quantity                  Average DOM
$750,000 - $799,999                    1                                 13
$850,000 - $899,999                    1                                   8
$1,250,000 - $1,499,999              1                                 48
Total                                            3                                 23

Average Price: $1,010,000

Sold
Price Range                              Quantity                  Average DOM
$800,000 - $849,999                     1                                 16
$1,250,000 - $1,499,999               1                                 23
Total                                             2                                20

Average Price: $1,134,000

If you have any specific questions concerning the Laurelhurst market you can reach me at 206.235.7772
or kodales@windermere.com.

*DOM = Days on market

Northeast Seattle Little League Baseball & Softball Registration Open Now For The 2012 Season

2011-12-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

John Joynt, with the Northeast Seattle Little League, sent us email saying "it's hard to believe that it's time to start thinking about baseball already, but we have opened up Baseball and Softball registration for the 2012 season."

NESL encourages returning and new players to register as soon as possible so that they can make sure there are the right amount of managers and coaches in place to "give all players the best possible experience on the field."

Practices will start at the beginning of March, with the younger divisions like Tee Ball starting a few weeks later. Games will start in late March or early April and run through the end of May.

For the 9-12 year-old divisions, Baseball will conclude on June 9th with Guy Marquiss Championship Saturday and Softball will wrap-up with their championship games at Husky Softball Stadium on Monday, June 11th.

Player Assessments will be held for Baseball’s American, National, and Major Divisions (9-12 years-old) and Softball’s Major Division (11-12 years-old). Baseball assessments are expected to be held on Saturday, January 28th and Sunday, February 5th. Softball assessments are tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 11th. Registered players for those divisions will be notified by email when the assessment schedule is confirmed.

The League will also be holding several Winter Workout Sessions to help get the players ready for the new season with the details still being finalized, but most likely to be held in January and February.

Check out the Player Resources page on the NESLL website for other training and instructional opportunities.

For Baseball information and registration go here and for softball go here.

Follow NESLL on Facebook and on Twitter.

Recently Installed Speed Cushions Help To Calm Traffic On NE Surber Drive

2011-12-13T09:27:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't noticed, speed cushions have been installed on NE Surber Drive between NE 41st Street and 41st Avenue NE, due to numerous neighbors raising concerns about speeding cars, over the last several years.

This corridor has been on SDOT’s priority funding list and SDOT wrote to the Laurelhurst Community Club in June of this year, that funds were finally available to "address the relatively high speeds three inch high asphalt speed cushions," after more than 60 percent of affected neighbors signed a petition submitted in July.

Recently, these speed cushions were installed to calm traffic on the long stretch, along with "Speed Bump Ahead" signs.
The three inch high asphalt speed cushions do not affect on street parking, SDOT says.

Surber Drive is a very well travelled road used by pedestrians going to various locations, including walking to the park, Husky games, University VIllage, Yesler Swamp, or the Talaris site.

"Slowing traffic for the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists is a LCC priority, and the Surber Drive project is a welcome move," the Laurelhurst Community Club told us.

Join Seattle Musical Theatre Sunday For Carols, Show Tunes and Karaoke

2011-12-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

Seattle Musical Theatre, located in Magnuson Park, is having a special holiday family performance on Sunday at 7pm, called "Songs, Sweets and Spirits" where all are encouraged to sing while enjoying desserts and specialty holiday alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as hot chocolate and hot cider.

Audience members can choose to have performers sing the carol of their choice or can choose to perform the song solo
or as a duet with one of SMT’s regulars in front of the audience, "the perfect opportunity for everyone’s talent
to be recognized," Laura, with SMT told us.

There will also be a silent auction with a variety of items.

Festive VIP tables on the stage are $25 per seat, house seating is $10 per seat or $20 for families.

Tickets can be purchased here or by calling the box office at 206-363-2809.

Seattle Musical Theatre (formerly Civic Light Opera), located at 7120 62nd Avenue NE, has free parking.

Agenda for Tonight's Laurelhurst Community Club Monthly Meeting

2011-12-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Community Club is holding its monthly Trustee meeting tonight at 7pm in the Fireside Room at the Laurelhurst Community Center (4554 NE 41st Street).

Here is the agenda:

WELCOME
·          Getting to Know our Friends at the Talaris Conference Center: Laura Heretski, General Manager and Lenny Zilz

ADMINISTRATION
·         Calls/Concerns from Neighbors
·         Treasurer’s Report
·        Announcements

REPORTS/ACTION
·        Crime Prevention
·        Sock Drive
·        Emergency Preparedness
·        SR 520 Update
·      Allowing Bars to be Open 24 Hours
·       Essential Public Facilities Update

Guitar Lessons Available In The Neighborhood

2011-12-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

One of our readers, Joe Walker, sent us email that he teaches rock, blue and jazz acoustic and electric guitar lessons in the neighborhood.

His business is called Deft Digits and he teaches children and adults in his home studio on Sand Point Place, just north of Seattle Children's Hospital.

Joe told us that many of his students live right in Laurelhurst.

Joe's dad grew up in Laurelhurst, and Joe says he has many memories of playing at his late grandparents' house on 52nd Avenue NE as a child.

For information and questions about lessons, contact Joe at (206) 496-2905 or mailto:joe@deftdigits.com or check out his website, which also includes lots of free guitar advice.

Montlake Fill Master Birder Book Reading And Signing On Sunday At Center For Urban Horticulture

2011-12-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

Friends of Yesler Swamp is having a book reading with local nature writer Connie Sidles, from her book Second Nature: Tales from the Montlake Fill, on Sunday from 2 - 3pm at the Center for Urban Horticulture (3501 N.E. 41st Street). This is a free event, and holiday cookies will be served.

In her second book, on the birds of the Union Bay Natural Area, Connie reveals the natural area’s secrets and shares insights on coping with the stresses of modern life.

Her first book, In My Nature, contains 32 essays covering four seasons of the year describing vividly Connie's experiences and thoughts at the Montlake Fill and the relationship between wild nature and human nature.

Connie has been going to the Unvion Bay Natural Area every morning for more than 20 years. She is a Master Birder, serves on the board of the Seattle Audubon Society, and is a member of the steering committee of Friends of Yesler Swamp.

Yesler Swamp is part of the 75-acre Union Bay Natural Area (aka Montlake Fill),which many birdwatchers consider one of the best bird watching sites in Seattle. For more than 40 years a garbage dump, the natural area was restored beginning in the 1970s. Today the area has ponds, meadows and woodlands that attract over 250 species of birds and is considered one of the best bird watching sites in Seattle.

Connie says of her book it is "the culmination of all my best craftsmanship in writing and color printing both. It has 32 essays about the intersection of human nature and wild nature at the Montlake Fill, my favorite place on Earth; and it has nearly 90 photographs from some of the best bird photographers in the region. The photos are simply stunning, and I can only hope my readers will think the essays are worthy."

Connie also maintains a kiosk which she updates regularly about the birds and wildlike,including a bird alert, running total of birds seen in the year and a story and picture about what the birds are up to at the Montlake Fill.

This information can also be found in Connie's interesting blog which contains beautiful pictures of the many types of birds at the Fill and lively essays, many written from the perspective of a particular bird.

Connie is also doing a second book reading co-hosted by Seattle Audubon Society and UW Botanic Gardens next Thursday, December 15th, at the Center for Urban Horticulture. To purchase Second Nature, go here.

Dog Found Near Talaris Last Night

2011-12-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us email that she found a dog near Talaris last night around 9:30pm:

No collar or tags - very sweet older female dog. I nearly ran her over driving up 41st Avenue NE on the way home.

She is safe at our home, though a bit hungry and tired. Please contact me asap if she looks familiar and/or you know the owners.

Heather at 206.218.5011

Important Community Meeting Tonight On Upcoming Cable Project To Resul In Driveway Access Restrictions And Power Outages

2011-12-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

A special community meeting tonight is being held tonight from 7-8pm to inform neighbors about an upcoming Seattle City Light project scheduled to start in late January in south Laurelhurst to remove old cable and replace them with newer, more reliable cables.

The project, expected to take ten months to complete, will upgrade power lines from 4,000 to 26,000 Volts.

The meeting, hosted by the Laurelhurst Community Club, and taking place at the Laurelhurst Community Center, will help neighbors prepare for this large project that will result in access restrictions, possible plant and paver removals on residen'ts properties.

The boundaries for the upgrade are NE 38th Street on the north, NE 33rd Street on the south, East Laurelhurst Drive NE on the east and 43rd Avenue NE on the west.

To do the work safely, there will be a few planned power outages and neighbors will be notified in advance. There will also be temporary access restrictions to driveways and walkways which will be coordinated in advance with customers.

Restoration will also occur section by section before the crew moves on. Landscaping, sod, driveways, and sidewalks affected by the installation of conduits and vaults will be restored equal to their original condition.

LCC encourages residents to remove any special plants in their parking strip, or in the right-of-way in advance of the scheduled work.

Brick pavers installed by homeowners in the right-of-way will be removed and replaced by the contractor. If a homeowner doesn't want the pavers replaced, City Light will either give them to the owner you or dispose of them and replace the area with sod. There will be new curb ramps and sidewalks installed in some sections where work has occurred.

"We hope you will join us at the community meeting to learn more about the specific plans for your neighborhood. We appreciate your patience and understanding during what sometimes may be a disruptive project. Upgrading the reliability of your electrical service is important to us," Jeannie Hale, Laurelhurst Community Club President said.

If you’d like more information about the project, contact Mark VanOss, Sr. Public Relations Specialist at (206) 684-3279 or mark.vanoss@seattle.gov.

For project updates go here.

Northwest Boychoir To Perform At St. Stephens On Sunday

2011-12-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

Northwest Boychoir, celebrating 33 years, will perform on Sunday at St. Stephens Church (4805 NE 45th Street) at 7pm, for their special "Festival of Lessons & Carols 2011."

The holiday concert, with nine regional performances, showcases the 90-member combined chorus of the Northwest Boychoir and Vocalpoint! Seattle.

Patterned after the Christmas Eve observance at King’s College in Cambridge, England, A Festival of Lessons & Carolshas become a holiday tradition for thousands of families in the Puget Sound region.

This classical performance consists of nine holiday readings, each followed by a traditional carol performed by the choir, and another carol sung by the choir and audience.

These concerts are open to the public, and run through December 21st. Advance tickets for reserved seating are available through the Northwest Choirs at 206-524-3234 or online at http://www.nwchoirs.org/.

The Northwest Boychoir website says:

Annually, 200 young singers enroll in our premier music education programs. These students -- boys ages 6 to 18, and girls 12 to 18 -- come from all corners of the Puget Sound region representing 115 diverse public and private elementary, middle and high schools.

In our program, these children and young adults become skilled musicians and singers with a passion for the musical arts, and the unique ability to perform great choral literature and contemporary works at the highest professional levels. Considered the premier children’s choirs in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, the Northwest Choirs is an integral part of the region’s cultural life.

Northwest Choirs members perform regularly with the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, as well as other high-profile performing arts groups in the area.

Laurelhurst Teens To Appear In ACT Theater Production Starting Friday

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Four Laurelhurst teens are appearing in a coming of age musical production, 13, at the ACT Theater, starting this Friday through December 18th.

This is Seattle’s first professional staging of 13, and will mark Broadway’s Bound first venture into Seattle’s professional theatre scene, one of the mothers of the teens told us.

“This show is full of humor, and has great singing and dancing,” Dave Given and Nancy Cahill, parents of two of the girls, told us.

Three of the girls, Mary Armintrout, Lucy and Anna Given, have all been raised and live in Laurelhurst and the fourth girl, Elliott Moore, who plays the lead role, just moved from Laurelhurst to neighboringWindermere.

The girsl are all in nearby schools, Elliott is in the 8th grade at Villa Academy, Mary is in the 10th grade at Lakeside and Anna is in the 8th grade at Eckstein Middle School. And new to this production is Lucy, Annna’s sister, who is in 10th grade at Roosevelt. Both Elliott and Lucy attended Laurelhurst Elementary.

The description says:

13 earned the L.A. Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Production and Best Musical Score for its world premiere production at Center Theatre Group/The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles in 2007. It subsequently opened on Broadway in 2008 featuring the only all-teenage cast to ever be on Broadway. The Broadway Bound cast, like the Broadway company, will be comprised of all teens.

Broadway Bound’s June 2011 production of 13 was a high mark for the organization after 15 years of shows. Because of the overwhelming positive reaction to this production, the cast and creative team has reassembled for a very special return engagement, in a collaborative effort with ACT.

13 is a grown-up story about growing up. Evan Goldman has it all — he's popular, has the perfect family and lives in the greatest city in the world — New York. That is until his parents get divorced and he's forced to move with his Mom… to Indiana. Uprooted from his old life, he has to make new friends and somehow maneuver his way through the minefield of junior high school to become part of the “in-crowd” in time for the celebration of his Bar Mitzvah.

With an unforgettable rock score, 13 is a hilarious, high-energy musical for all ages about discovering that cool is where you find it, and sometimes where you least expect it.

The show will have ten performances Friday, December 9th through Sunday, December 18th. Tickets are $17.50 and can be purchased here.

Northeast Library December Events

2011-12-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

Here are some of this month's events happening at the Northeast Branch (6801 35th Avenue NE) of the Seattle Public Library, including a special family games and crafts afternoon on December 20th.

For a complete list go here.

December 8th
Email Basics 5:30- 7:30pm
Get a free email account and learn how to use it.

December 15th
Web 2.0 Basics 3- 4:30pm
Learn about the newest generation of websites including blogs, wikis, Facebook and more.

December 19th
Facebook 4 - 5:30pm
Learn more about how you can use the social networking website, facebook.com, to connect with friends, family, and your community.

December 20th
All Ages Game and Fun 1- 4pm
Come in from the cold and play with us! Everyone from children to grandparents is welcome, and we’ll have video games, table games and simple crafts for everyone to enjoy. Snacks will also be provided.

Car Prowl On 42nd Avenue NE And NE 45th Street

2011-12-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

We received this email from a reader about a car prowl that happened last Wednesday, November 30th, on 42nd Avenue NE, near the intersection of 45th Street NE:

A couple of nights ago, I forgot to lock my car. The next morning when I left the house, I discovered that someone had entered my car during the night and rifled through the glove compartment and the armrest between the two front seats. Some stuff was taken, but luckily nothing of any value.

Then, about a half hour later, I discovered that a carpenter working on the house across the street from mine had had his lockbox messed with during the night.

So, clearly, someone is prowling the neighborhood with the intent to take whatever he can get his hands on.

December Classes At Laurelhurst Wine Merchants

2011-12-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

Laurelhurst Wine Merchants (3711 NE 45th Street) behind Jak's) is having two interesting classes this month for wine enthusiasts.

Tomorrow evening a class called "Bubbles 101" takes place from 6:30-8pm for $45.

The description says:

Not all that sparkles is Champagne but what's the difference? This class will help you decode all of that as we explore the differences in flavor, production methods and labeling laws between Prosecco, Cava, Cremant, Champagne and other tasty bubblies. Even if you already know everything, this is a great excuse to taste some delicious wines just in time for the holidays.

And next Wednesday is the Sip and Swirl Tasting Group which meets the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30pm for $10.

The description says:

Are you completely mystified by those 'fruit bowl' descriptors of wine like blackberry and cherry? Oh wait, and then there's licorice, tar, graphite, pepper and a lot of other crazy things. What's all that got do with wine? The best way to demystify some of that and hone your own palate is to taste with others, so we're starting a once a month tasting group. This is not a class, it's just fun! We'll gather over a few bottles of wine with a common theme; we'll taste, share thoughts and ideas, and hopefully learn something along the way. We're low-key here at LWM so whether you're a newbie or a cork dork, you'll fit right in.

Reserve your seat for any classes by calling 206 708-1537 or emailing wine@laurelhurstwine.com.

Shoe Zoo Is Closing For Good - Say Goodbye To "The Zoo Keeper" And Buy Some Discounted Quality Shoes

2011-12-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

Shoe Zoo Owner Bruce Stern and Store Manager Susan

After almost closing his childrens shoe store last March then staying open another year, Bruce Stern, the owner of The Shoe Zoo, located behind the University Village, (2920 NE Blakely Street), has now decided to close his store for good due to a major decrease in sales and inablitiy to keep up with his paying his invoices, with some days only one shopper in the store.

The Shoe Zoo has been a beloved, popular store for families for almost 24 years. Bruce, the owner, first started selling shoes at Jay Jacobs, then at Frederick Nelson. Then Bruce followed in his father, Gil Stern's footsteps, who once owned a shoe store in the University Village for many years, and was constantly told about the need for a children's shoe store in the University Village, and opened his own shoe store there in 1988 called The Shoe Zoo.

Bruce told us that the store was immediately recognized as the northwest's best children's shoe store. The Shoe Zoo gradually downsized over the years, from three stores in the 1990's including Issaquah, and Redmond Town Center.

Bruce said all the stores had very loyal customers, "but now like Seattle just not enough of them. "

Another long time fixture in the store has been Suan, the store manager, who has worked there for 15 years and Bruce said is "as loyal as can be, and will truly be missed."

Bruce said last year at this time when he was about to close:

Thank you so much for your interest in my store. It truly makes me feel blessed that over the last 23 years we made a difference to a lot of families. I feel that this is a very special area of Seattle, not only because I grew up here, but because the people in this community truly believe in family values.

But more importantly, its the thousands of families I have personally waited on over the years that has made me love this store so much. Watching a baby getting his first pair of shoes grow till I sadly have to say............I am sorry buddy, I can't fit you anymore, your too big. And then to have him bring in his child to let me fit them in there first pair of shoes. I'm tearing up right now, wow.

Closing the store has been was a very tough decision. Honestly, the last two years have been a struggle. I tried to be more careful about over spending on merchandise. I always wanted to not only give the best service, but always have the best selection as well. Business has dropped over the last two years to the point that I can't be business as usual. I can't keep up with my invoices.

Currently all shoes in the store are 20% off, and quite a number of shoes are 30% off.

Bruce urges families to come in and buy shoes, not only because of the great selection, quality and value, but also he has many many bills to pay. And everything in the store is for sale, including the furniture, toys, movies, equipment and more.

The store should be open through the end of March, when his lease is up. Store hours are Monday through Saturday 10-6pm and Sunday 12-5pm.

Bruce wrote Friday afternoon to his customers:

Well, I certainly hoped I wouldn't have to write this letter, but I must. I was optimistic when we gave it one more try last year. I thought maybe we could survive with everyone knowing how tough of a time we were having. I am afraid to say it was a mistake. I just prolonged the inevitable. I couldn't have imagined it getting so much worse, but it did.

I want to thank you for your support, not only during this last year, but for the past 24 years as well. It's been very special watching your kids grow up over the years, from fitting your children with their first pair of shoes, then, in a blink of an eye, outgrowing our store. I felt a little bit more special than just your average retail store owner, maybe because you treated me that way. And for that, a heartfelt thank you.

Now, I don't want to get into too much detail, but after the going-out-of-business sale last year, I had to re-stock the entire store. Let's just say, The Zoo Keeper really needs your help. I have to try and pay for all of these shoes. So please come in and take advantage of some great savings on your shoe and boot purchases.

Starting today, everything in the store will be 20% off. Everything must go, so if you see something that isn't marked, please make an offer. I will be selling stockroom shelves, which are perfect for your garage, classic children's movies, stuffed animals, pictures, equipment, tools, benches, and much more..

Over the next few months, I will be sending out email notifications with updates and such.

I really hope to see you, it would mean so much to me.

Bob's Bike And Board Has Moved To The University District

2011-12-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

Bob's Bike and Board, formerly located on NE 45th Street in Laurelhurst, has just moved to the University District.

Bob wrote to us:

I just could not keep treading water in the big space that I was in. And my children are growing up fast and I need to spend more time with them.

My new location is at 5206 University Avenue. I will try to get it organized quickly so you can come check it out.

It is a very small spot compared with the old one, but the property owner seems to appreciate my contribution to the big picture.

I will certainly miss the old location. I hope you will follow my move and help support my new location. I should be more able to keep pace in the small space once it is set up. Until then pardon the Mess.

Bob's is a favorite place among neighbors to go for all things bike in the summer and skis and boards in the winter. And Bob is known to be a pro at fixing bikes and tuning skis. He also carries a large variety of bikes, skis and boards, as well as offering rentals.

Here is a previous post we did about how Bob's Bike and Board store came about almost 18 years ago.

Celebrate Laurelhurst Wine Merchants First Anniversary Tomorrow

2011-12-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Laurelhurst Wine Merchants (3711 NE 45th Street) behind Jak's, is celebrating their first anniversary with a party tomorrow from 1-5pm.

Local winery Laurelhurst Cellars will be pouring new releases, along with cheeses to taste, some champagne, and specials on products.

They will also be offering 15% off all regularly priced sparkling wines all weekend.

The owners of the company are Richard and Lynda Chapman who told us last year at this time that have grown to love wine during their travels around the world and decided to open a store along with Janet, the store manager, who is an ISG accredited sommelier and has been a part of the wine scene in the Seattle area for a number of years.

Laurelhurst Wine Merchants has regular wine tastings on Thursday evenings from 5-7pm for a charge of $3.00 refundable with purchase of any bottle of wine. They also have some special week-end wine tastings with various local wineries.

They have also teamed up with Strom Peterson, The Resident Cheesemonger, to offer a selection of quality cheeses and meats from around the world.

Laurelhurst Wine Merchants is open 6 days a week and their website says "We pride ourselves on selecting the very best wine with prices to fit every budget. Whether you're simply looking for a single bottle to complement your meal or you're carefully stocking your personal wine cellar, Laurelhurst Wine Merchants looks forward to serving you."

Suspicious Man Seen Running Through Yard Yesterday

2011-12-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us this email about an incident yesterday:

Our nanny just called to say that she glanced out of the window and caught sight of a person dressed in dark clothes with a hood up, running through our yard. I am guessing he actually leapt over our small fence.

He knocked over our toddler basketball hoop in the front yard and then went running down the side of our house out to the other street.

He appeared to actually be circling our house. When our nanny saw him, he came from a direction that meant he was either hanging around checking things out or had come up one side of the house and ran down the other.

There were no signs of any contractors/gardeners in the area.

We live in the 3400 block on 45th Ave NE.

The reader would like to know if anyone else saw this person as the family is "feeling a little unsettled about the event." If so, please contact us at laurelhurstblogger@gmail.com and we will put you in contact with the reader.

Metro Bus Route 25 Potential Reduction In Frequency Next Year

2011-12-01T06:50:00.000-08:00

Metro Bus Route 25 that serves Laurelhurst may have a reduction in service from every 30 minutes to 60 minutes during peak hours starting in September of next year.

Riders are encouraged to fill out a comment form here right away, to let Metro know what you think about this proposed changes and others listed here.

This is part of the June 2012 transit reinvestment project as outlined on their website:

Metro is making changes. We are moving toward our new vision for public transportation, striving to build a highly productive transit system that takes people where they want to go and gets the most value out of every dollar spent on transit.

The recommended June 2012 service changes will be presented to King County Council for consideration in early December and adoption by January.

Check Out The Winter Community Center Brochure Of Classes

2011-11-30T11:07:00.000-08:00

The winter brochure for area Community Centers is now available. The Northeast catalog includes Laurelhurst, Magnuson, Ravenna-Eckstein, Meadowbrook and Northgate community centers. Also included is Lifelong Recreation and pool schedules.

From January 3rd-31st the "Try it for two dollars" special will be happening again. You can try any class or program for just two dollars, and if you decide to continue, you can register for the remainder of the series at a prorated amount.

Some upcoming classes at Laurelhurst Community Center are:

For kids:
Create Art with Kids
Creative Movement/Ballet
Martial Arts
Clay Creations

For adults:
Barre Conditioning
Matt Pilates
Pottery

Check out a full description of these classes and others offered at nearby Magnuson Community Center here.

Laurelhurst Elementary School Accepting Donations For Annual PTA Auction Fundraiser

2011-11-29T07:05:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst PTA Auction Committee has started its donation drive for the 2012 PTA Auction and auction items are currently being collected and procured.

"We'd love to invite people to donate if they own local businesses, or pass along any donation ideas," one of the Committee members told us. Adding "We are successful because local businesses and alumni and friends of the school donate, as well as our own families."

The money raised by the PTA through the donations is used to pay for services and programs that are no longer paid for by the State or the District, such as art programs, technology for the classrooms, reading tutors, inspiring field trips, general music program, reading tutors, math tutors, science enrichment and advanced learning enrichment, as well as a full-time librarian.

The Committee told us that the auction would not be possible without the generous donations and support of local businesses, current students families, alumni and friends of Laurelhurst.

"We are very lucky to receive lots of donations and every dollar is a gift that we are thankful to get," a Committee member told us.

Some of the cool items received in past years was wine, interesting travel to places such as Hawaii, nights out a local restaurants, experiences like kayaking, tandam bike rentals, afternoon lunch on a boat tied to the log boom during Sea Fair, parties at local business for groups of people, creating crafts (fairy houses) or getting spa services (pedicures, color parties, and facials).

Last year there was a package from several Laurelhurst merchants for the holidays which included a Douglas Fir Christmas Tree, delivery and set up of the tree, holiday lights for the outside of a home custom fitted and hung, and holiday cards.

Bidding will start online March 5 through March 19 with the Auction event taking place at The Mountaineer's Club on March 23. Bidding is open to all friends, neighbors and family and one-hundred percent of auction proceeds are reinvested into Laurelhurst Elementary School.

Anyone can donate here or by going to the school website. The Laurelhurst PTA is a 501(c)3 organization.

For donation ideas or questions, contact Elizabeth at 799-2122 or Christy at 954-9135.

Special Movie Screening At Villa Tomorrow As Part Of Parent Education Series

2011-11-28T11:41:00.000-08:00

Villa Academy (5001 NE 50th Street) is showing a special movie tomorrow night called "Consuming Kids: The Commercialization of Childhood Documentary" from 7-9pm.

The description says:

This documentary film throws light on a relentless marketing machine that sells kids and their parents everything from junk food to the family car. Drawing on insights of health care professionals, children's advocates, and industry insiders, the film shows how youth marketers use the latest advances in psychology, anthropology, and neuroscience.

The movie screening is free, open to the public and for parents with children of all ages.

Seattle Public Library Introduces New System To Track Holds, Overdue Notices And More

2011-11-28T11:40:00.000-08:00

In case you hadn't heard yet, the Seattle Public Library, including the Northeast Branch (6801 35th Avenue NE), has a new way for cardholders to keep track of holds and due dates on items.

Library Elf is a free online add-on notice and alert system service now available that allows cardholders to simplify and customize their library notices and alerts. The new system provides holds waiting, pre-overdue, and overdue notifications for multiple Library accounts in one message. This service is especially useful for families that track multiple Library accounts. The service can also combine accounts of other participating library systems, including KCLS (King County Library System.)

The Library will continue existing notice services, including the pre-overdue notice and holds waiting notification by email.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Blog Staff is taking next week off to spend the holiday with family. We'll be back the following week with more interesting posts for our readers.

In the meantime, please let us know if you have a story idea or see something interesting in the neighborhood at laurelhurstblogger@gmail.com.

Laurelhurst's Miller Library Storytime Tomorrow

2011-11-18T09:39:00.000-08:00

Miller Library (3501 NE 41st Street), located at The Center For Urban Horticutlure, in Laurelhurst, is having another storytime called "Small Potatoes" tomorrow at 10:30am.

The information says:

Do you like potatoes? Meet a few gardeners who do in this month’s books. In addition to the stories, make a potato print bag and have fun imagining your own vegetable garden.

Books that will be read are:
TWO OLD POTATOES AND ME by John Coy
UP WE GROW! By Deborah Hodge
SCARLETTE BEANE by Karen Wallace

Top Of Building Reached On Hospital Construction Site, Marked By Tree And Flag

2011-11-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

In case you hadn't noticed, the new building on the Children's Hospital construction site, now has an evergreen tree on the very top and an American flag.

Why are they up there?

It's part of the the topping out tradition, and means the ironworkers have placed the final beam atop the new "Building Hope" structure.

The ironworkers signed the beam and all watched as it was put into place. The tree and flag were hoisted up with the final beam.

(photo courtesy of Hospital)

Large Protest Scheduled For 4pm Today, Could Impact Commute, Neighboring Hospitals and Bridges

2011-11-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

A large Occupy Seattle unpermitted protest is scheduled to start at 3:30pm today, according to the flier, with the protest at 4pm and the march and attempt to move onto the University Brige and possible SR520 at 4:30pm.

A reader forwarded this information to us from the UW:

The University of Washington Police Department is expecting a large Occupy Seattle protest today beginning at about 3:30pm at Montlake Blvd NE and NE Pacific Street. The protesters will have speakers at this rally presenting on how the economy has impacted them.

They are then planning to move from the sidewalks to the street and march onto Montlake Bridge at 4:30pm, blocking bridge access until forced off by police.

This could potentially have severe impacts on patient/visitor access to the UW Hospital, ambulance, Metro and commuter traffic. Law enforcement are actively planning to mitigate the impact of this event and maintain traffic access.

Alternative commuter routes to the North and West are not expected to be affected, including access to I-5 via 45th Street. Metro and DOT have been notified, as well as Seattle Children's other potentially affected entities.

And here is information from the City of Seattle:

An Occupy Seattle rally and march today has the potential for creating major delays on all arterials leading to and from Ship Canal bridges during the afternoon commute.   The rally is scheduled to take place between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. on the University of Washington campus and then is expected to march west on NE Pacific Street to the University Bridge at roughly 4:30 p.m.

The demonstrators plan to block the bridge during the afternoon rush hour so their presence will likely cause traffic delays throughout the afternoon commute – until after 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Demonstrators may also block the Montlake Bridge during that timeframe.     Seattle Police Officers will be on hand to minimize traffic congestion but the blockage of any one bridge could impact other nearby Ship Canal bridges.

Commuters should allow additional time for detouring to another route. Motorists who must get to the University or Children’s hospitals should plan for extra time to reach their destination.

The protests could be very disruptive to transit service this afternoon. For information or questions about transit service, please call Metro Transit customer service at 206-553-3000, and sign up to receive Transit Alerts at www.kingcounty.gov/metro/alerts .

Subscribe Now To Laurelhurst Private Security Patrol

2011-11-16T11:27:00.000-08:00

The Laurelhurst Community Club's Crime Prevention Coordinators sent us some information to share with the neighborhood regarding the Laurelhurst Private Security Patrol.

The Security Patrol is being renewed again for 2012 due to the "positive response over the last three years and the efforts of LCC to deter burglaries, car prowls, auto thefts, and vandalism in the neighborhood," LCC told us.

LCC is asking for neighbor's participation once again this coming year in signing up for the patrol as the success of the patrol depends on resident's participation. The more families that subscribe, the more coverage that can be offered.

The patrol boundaries cover the entire neighborhood by uniformed, off-duty Seattle Police officers, and is planned for six nights a week, with specific nights and hours dependent on the contributions of funding.

Officers carry police radios and their police firearms, and drive unmarked personal vehicles. They monitor incoming 911 calls and respond to Laurelhurst calls if on patrol and work with the official response from the on-duty police officers.

Officers also conduct vacation checks if requested, by doing a walk around of your premises during each shift and securing any open doors, hiding packages, or removing door tags.

If you subscribe now, you will be covered the rest of this year through December 2012 and the annual cost per family is $200. Neighbors can also join at any time during the year and neighborhood institutions such as schools, churches, etc. can also participate.

The private security project is particularly important this year as the City’s budget shortfall means that the 26 vacant positions in the Seattle Police Department will not be filled agan.

For more information and questions contact email LCC’s Crime Prevention team at crimeprevention@laurelhurstcc.com.

To sign up use LCC’s secure online payment option or send your $200 check payable to the Laurelhurst Community Club, including your name, address, email, and emergency contact information.

Learn Home Weatherization Tips At Sustainable NE Seattle Monthly Meeting Tomorrow

2011-11-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

A reader let us know that this month's Sustainable NE Seattle meeting will be about home weatherization tips. The meeting is tomorrow from 6:30-9pm at the Wedgwood Presbyterian Church (8008 35th Avenue NE).

The information says:

There are some immediate things we can do to make our homes more energy efficient. We will learn what to do before replacing windows from one of our community experts. Also, learn about Solarize NESeattle, project to bring reasonable pricing for solar power to our neighborhood. Additionally, SustainableWorks® home retrofitting org., will be here for input and Q&A.

Sustainable NE Seattle an organizaton serving several NE neighborhoods, including Laurelhurst that is "working together on various action projects in such areas as food security and growing local food, alternative transportation systems and neighborhood mapping, tree and habitat preservation, green building and energy efficiency...trying to effect positive change for our locality, creating a world that works for all," their website says.

November Events At The Northeast Branch Library

2011-11-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the remaining November events at the Northeast Branch (6801 35th Avenue NE) of the Seattle Public Library. You can find a full list here.

Thursday, 11/15 6-7:30pm
Word 2007

Learn how to create, edit, format, open, save and print documents using Word 2007

Friday, 11/18 10-11am
Senior Book Group
This month’s title is "Olive Kitteridge" by Elizabeth Strout.

Tuesday, 11/22 6-7:30pm
Download Digital Books
Learn how to download audiobooks from the Library, focus mainly on the OverDrive digital book service.

Parent Lecture At Villa Tonight

2011-11-15T06:43:00.000-08:00

Villa Academy (5001 NE 50th Street) is hosting another parent lecture tonight from 7-9pm "Identifying ADH: What Parents Shoud Know."

The information says:

Lauren Plawner, MD, a Pediatric Neurologist will help us understand ADHD. This workshop will help parents identify ADHD, distinguish it from other problems it may look like, as well as provide strategies to support school performance, organizational skills and family relationships.

The lecture will be in the Parlour and is free, open to the public and for parents of children age 3-14.

Tonight's Agenda For Laurelhurst Community Club Trustees Meeting

2011-11-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the agenda for tonight's Laurelhurst Community Club Trustees meeting at 7pm in the Fireside Room at the Laurelhurst Community Center (4554 NE 41st Street). All are welcome.

7:05   ADMINISTRATION
·         Calls/Concerns from Neighbors
·         Minutes
·        Treasurer’s Report
·        Changes to the Agenda
·        Foundation Update
·        Announcements

7:35   REPORTS/ACTION
·        Crime Prevention
·        Sock Drive
·       Emergency Preparednes
·        Essential Public Facilities Update
·        SR 520 Update
·        Work Party Planning

9:00·  ADJOURN

Seattle School Board Community Meeting Tonight To Give Input On Superintendent

2011-11-14T11:35:00.000-08:00

Tonight there will be a special community meeting hosted by the Seattle School Board in partnership with the Seattle Council PTSA, for the public to give input on the permanent Superintendent of Public Schools.

The Seattle School Board will decide this winter whether to conduct a national search for a Superintendent or whether to
appoint Interim Superintendent Dr. Susan Enfield. Families can share their thoughts and input on the traits they would like to see in a Superintendent at the community meetings .

"Please consider sharing your opinions on this important matter at one of these three community meetings hosted by the Seattle Council PTSA," the information says.

There will also be a survey available soon to collect input.

Here is the schedule for the three community meetings this week:
Tonight: Roosevelt High School 7-8:30pm
Tomorrow: Denny International Middle School 7-:30pm
Thursday: South Shore K-8 7-8:30pm

Childcare and light snacks will be available starting at 6:30 pm at all locations.

Yesler Swamp Nature Walk On Sunday

2011-11-11T06:34:00.000-08:00

Friends of Yesler Swamp is having another nature walk tour on Sunday from 1-2pm titled "Getting Ready for Winter" led by Awareness School Graduate Patrick Fallon.

The information says:

Explore the survival strategies plants and animals in Yesler Swamp use to get through the winter. Look at life under fallen logs and learn to identify animal tracks along the trail.

Bird watchers and nature lovers of all ages are invited. Bring along binoculars!

Meet at the East parking lot of Center for Urban Horticulture (3500 NE 41st Street).

(photo by Patrick Fallon)

Free Trees Still Available For Pick-Up Tomorrow

2011-11-11T06:28:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us the below information from Jessica, who runs the Trees for Neighborhoods Program. She says that free trees are still available and can be picked up tomorrow from 10-2pm at the Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands (5513 South Cloverdale Steet).

After Sunday's workshop, we had a number of conifer trees left without homes! We have re-opened applications for conifers to be planted in yards, and I am hoping that you can help me spread the word.

If you have friends or neighbors who love trees, live within the City of Seattle, and have space to plant some big trees in their yard, please send them to the Trees for Neighborhoods website to apply.
Also, if you received less than the maximum of 4 trees per household and you think that you might like to add some conifers to your own yard, feel free to fill out another application.

Available trees include Deodar cedar, Weeping Alaska cedar, Shore pine, and Western red cedar. You can find out more information about each of these species, along with links to pictures here.

Here is a previous post we did 2 weeks ago about the program.

If you are interested in more deciduous trees for your yard, unclaimed trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 2:30 pm tomorrow at the Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands.

91 Year Old UVillage UPS Store Employee Retiring, Reception Tomorrow

2011-11-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

Margie Funaro at her 90th birthday celebration

A reader sent us email that Margie Funaro, 91 years old, who has wored at the UPS Store in the University Village for a number of year is having a retirement party tomorrow morning.

The reader says "Many probably do not know Margie's last name but she had been working at the UPS store in the U Village until recently. She is remarkable – still working hard at age 91!

"I am sure there are many in Laurelhurst who have interacted with her for the 36 years she has worked in the postal service as it evolved in U Village. I am sure many of your readers will appreciate knowing about the reception so they can attend."

The reception, hosted by the University Village, to thank Margie for her hard work, dedication, and kindness, will be held tomorrow at 9am at Grace Kitchen, next to Ravenna Gardens. Coffee and pastries will be provided.

RSVP to Sarah Katsandres at 206-523-0622 or sk@uvillage.com.

(photo courtesy of traveleralswanderings.blogspot.com/)

"Hairspray" Opens Tomorrow At Seattle Musical Theatre At Magnuson Park

2011-11-10T09:25:00.000-08:00

The popular 60’s musical Hairspray, opens at the Seattle Musical Theatre in Magnuson Park tomorrow and runs through December 11th.

Here is some information Janet, the executive dirctor sent us:

The show opens in Baltimore, Maryland in 1962 with Tracy, dreaming of fame, love and her desire to dance on The Corny Collins show. When Tracy wins a role on the show, she becomes an overnight celebrity and her dreams morph into something bigger – integrating the show. But society - led by the devious Amber Von Tussle and her racist stage mother, Velma – would dash those dreams, just as they would the dreams of all the “colored folk” across town. But fortunately, local heartthrob and TV dance show host, Link Larkin, along with beauty salon owner Motormouth Maybelle and her dancing kids, Seaweed and Little Inez, help Tracy create a new reality.

While Hairspray is hilarious, it is the issues surrounding segregation that are at the core of the story. The Hairspray team profoundly address the discrimination of the time by exposing the ludicrousness of the concept “that we can live separately from one another”. Tracy simplifies it best when she says; “I just think it’s stupid we can’t all dance together”.

The 1988 film featured Ricki Lake and the impressive Devine as Tracy’s Mom, Edna. The 2002 stage version had its original try out at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre, with Harvey Fierstein in the Edna role, and a pre Glee Mathew Morrison as Link Larkin. Hairspray went on to be a huge Broadway hit, winning 8 Tony Awards. After its Broadway success, a new movie version in 2007 had John Travolta (Edna), James Marsden (Corny Collins), Michelle Pfeiffer (Velma) and Queen Latifah (Motormouth) winning the widely sought after roles and leading a cast of other pop culture favorites.

Prepare yourself for some of the craziest dancing and biggest hair ever seen at Seattle Musical Theatre.

Hairspray plays Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm with no performances Thanksgiving weekend. There will be one Thursday night performance on December 8th.

Seattle Musical Theatre (formerly Civic Light Opera) is located in Magnuson Park, at 7120 62nd Avenue NE. Parking is free.

Tickets are $40 for general admisson and $35 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased here or by calling the box office at 206-363-2809.

Laurelhurst Resident To Guest Bartend Tomorrow Night At 50 North Restaurant

2011-11-09T07:05:00.000-08:00

Curt O'Connor bartendng at 50 North Restaurant near the University Village

Curt O'Connor, is the Laurelhurst guest bartender once again tomorrow at 50 North Restaurant (5001 25th Avenue NE) near the University Village.

Curt was one of the resaurant's very first customers, Melinda, the owner told us "and he has been so loyal to us, so it is always a fun evening for friends and neighbors to enjoy."

Curt will be serving drinks as part of the "Movember" campaign all this month, which is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

All 50 North customers who dine wearing mustaches, real or fake, will receive 10% off their meal in the month of November. Customers can keep the discount for themselves or donate it on their behalf to the Movember Foundation which funds men’s health educational projects, LIVESTRONG, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Melinda told us that male staff at the restaurant have already been growing mustaches to show their support for men’s health issues.

50 North will feature the ‘Movember Man-Hattan,’ a specialty cocktail with an associated $1.00 donation per drink to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Melinda Sontgerath, says “ We hope to not only show our support for the men in our community during ‘Movember,’ but make an impact-full contribution with the help of our staff and customers.”

50 North is open everyday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a full bar.

Here is a post we did about 50 North and its popularity as a nearby neighborhoood restaurant, recommeded by several readers.

September Laurelhurst Real Estate Summary

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Kim Dales for providing us with this neighborhood real estate activity monthly report:

October was a solid month in Laurelhurst. 6 new listings/price reductions, 4 pending and 3 solds. Unlike many other NE Seattle neighborhoods Laurelhurst days on market are excellent at an average of 31 days. Interest rates continue to remain low. One of my clients just refinanced their home with a 15 year fixed mortgage @ 3.375%.

I know I am very focused on oil tanks, due to a recent leak I have been involved with, but if you are contemplating a change from oil to gas and mention my name, Tanks by Dallas will reduce any decommissioning of your tank by 10% until the end of the year. Their phone # is 206.365.0291. The term decommission typically means that the existing tank is filled or washed out and capped. This usually runs $600-$700. It is not necessary to remove your tank unless an oil leak is identified.

As I mentioned in a previous blog entry, if you tank is original to your property there is a high probability that it could be leaking so please make sure you are insured wilt PLIA the Pollution Liability Insurance Agency.

New Listings

Price Range                          Quantity
$650,000 - $699,999                 1
$850,000 - $899,999                 1
$1,250,000 - $1,499,999           1
$1,500,000 - $1,749,999           1
$2,000,000+                              2
Total                                         6

Median Price: $1,545,000

CONTINGENT

Price Range                         Quantity             Average DOM*
$1,250,000 - $1,499,999          1                                 38

Median Price: $1,385,000

PENDING

Price Range                            Quantity             Average DOM
$450,000 - $499,999                  1                                95
$850,000 - $899,999                  1                                20
$1,000,000 - $1,249,999            1                                40
$1,500,000 - $1,749,999            1                              122
Total                                          4                               59

Median Price: $895,000

SOLD

Price Range                       Quantity                  Average DOM
$550,000 - $599,999                1                                   52
$600,000 - $649,999                1                                   15
$900,000 - $949,999                1                                   25
Total                                        3                                  31

Median Price: $640,000

If you have any specific questions concerning the Laurelhurst market you can reach me at 206.235.7772 or kodales@windermere.com.

Car Stolen Out Of Driveway At The Corner Of NE 45th Street and 51st Avenue NE

2011-11-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us the below email detailing how his car was recently stolen from his home, and fortunately recovered, but unfortunately with many personal items missing:

At 7:50 am, Monday , October 31st, I started my SUV to warm it up, went inside and came back out at 8:00 am. The car was gone, stolen!

The car was parked in our drive way, about 40 feet from the front door, 5 feet from the overhead garage door and right under the master bedroom window.

The location is near the corner on NE 45th Street and 51st Avenue NE.

I had noticed earlier that morning an old car with few guys in it that did not look like they were from the 'hood. Who knows if they were the thieves?

Point: some bad guys are regularly driving our neighborhood and at all times looking for opportunities. The policeman who responded to the call said SUV’s are in demand in Russia and he would not be surprised in my car was on a boat to Russia.

Fortunately, the car was found last Saturday morning by Bellevue police near Factoria area. The Bellevue policeman was responding to, you guessed it, a report of stolen car – the car was warming up in the drive way and someone drove it off. My car was found very close by, with the engine still warm.

The thieves found a car they liked better than mine. That is an insult I can live with!! They did not like my taste in music either as all my CD’s were left in the car. Minor damage to my car, but personal belongings gone including a PC sitting on the floor, nice rain / over coat and the car’s owner’ manual.

My car’s plates were gone, but an Idaho and another WA plate were found in my car. Point here is the thieves likely quickly replaced my car’s plates with different plates.

WSDOT Seeking Public Input On SR520 Tomorrow Evening

2011-11-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

The Washington State Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting tomorrow from 4-7pm at at the Museum of History and Industry (2700 24th Avenue East).

WSDOT is interested in continuing to seek community feedback on design features of SR520 improvements, community connections, lids and bridge structures throughout the project area, the invite says that went out to neighbors.

There will be short presentations at 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. discussing common themes and requests for information heard at the last meeting, including initial design concepts from Interstate 5 to the west end of the floating bridge, that incorporate public comments received at the October meeting.

"Additional public input will help develop the sustainable urban design elements and enhance community connections, highway lids and bridge structures along SR 520 from I-5 to the west end of the floating bridge," the information says.

This meeting is the second in WSDOT’s Seattle Community Design Process, which focuses on SR 520 improvements at the I-5 interchange, Portage Bay Bridge, Montlake interchange and replacement of the west approach to the floating bridge.

Information about the Seattle Community Design Process can be found here. And here are details about the new SR 520.
(photo courtesy of WSDOT)

House Robbed During Husky Game As Well As Portables Broken Into At Laurelhurst School

2011-11-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

We received this email from a reader:

Our house was robbed Saturday night (the 5th) sometime between 4pm and midnight.

We live in the 5100 block o 48th Avenue NE. They took jewelry and all computers, money.

This is so awful, I hope people are on the look out. Husky games seem like a good time for robbers.

We also learned that two portables at Laurelhurst Elementary School were broken into that evening as well.

UW Farm, With A Location In Laurelhurst, Looking For Used Bikes

2011-11-07T06:38:00.000-08:00

A reader sent us email that the UW Farm, which is in the process of starting a new farm at the Center for Urban Horticulture, located in Laurelhurst is currently looking for used bikes.

The information says:

The UW farm is looking for donations of working bicycles for UW farmers to help commute from one farm site to another. Currently, the two farm sites are a half an hour walk apart.

We will be creating a community bicycle system that will allow farmers, who do not bike to school, access to bicycles that will significantly reduce their commute time to and from our new farm site at the Center for Urban Horticulture.

Bikes of all sizes are appreciated! We only ask that bikes are ridable and in working order.

If you have a bike that you can donate, please email Ross at rover.ross@gmail.com.

St. Stephens Starts Series of Evensong Services This Sunday

2011-11-04T07:55:00.000-07:00

Leslie Martin, Director of Music at St. Stephens Church (4805 NE 45th Street), sent us email to invite the neighborhood to the first service of the fourth annual series of "Choral Evensong. " Sunday's service starting at 5pm will feature a Bach Cantata.

Leslie writes:

St. Stephen's Choir and baroque chamber ensemble will present an undisputed masterpiece from the pen of the then-twenty-two-year-old J S Bach: "Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit" (God's time is the very best time) - scored
for 2 recorders, 2 violas da gamba, and SATB choir and soloists.

The service will begin with renowned Seattle baroque violinist Tekla Cunningham, performing Bach's monolithic "Chaconne in d minor".

Please come and bring a friend the cantata pre-view at 4:30, then join us after Evensong for a chance to meet and greet each other at a gala reception.

Evensong, a short 45 minute service, takes place the first of every month and is "chanted in the beautiful surroundings of the church, featuring inspiring anthems and soaring settings of the evening canticles – Magnificat and Nunc dimittis – which mix with shafts of light streaming through our unique and beautiful stained glass windows, making a feast for the senses."

The event is free and open to the public. Here is the schedule through June.

Adopt A Drain This Month And Special Allowance Of Additional Yard Waste At No Extra Charge

2011-11-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

November is Adopt A Drain Month and Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) needs your help preventing flooding by keeping neighborhood storm drains clear of debris and the water flowing.

Residents are invited to participate in the Adopt-A-Drain Program during Seattle’s peak leaf-falling season. During this time SPU provides residents and business owners with free cleanup supplies – rakes, bags, gloves, shovels, brooms and dustpans.

Your help during fall is appreciated by Seattle Public Utilities crews who are responsible for nearly 80,000 storm drains.

Both the City and the individuals or groups adopting the drains make a commitment to each other to perform certain activities to keep neighborhood drains free from leaf matting, help prevent flooding and to improve water quality within our watersheds.

Call or e-mail at 206-233-7187 or adoptadrain@seattle.gov to reserve supplies or reserve them online. Supplies can be picked up at SPU’s warehouse at 3633 East Marginal Way South

Also as part of "Fall Clean" month, SPU customers are able to place additional bags alongside your yard waste container at no additional charge.

You can call (206) 684-7647 to request that the bagged leaves be picked up or to request a one-time free coupon to one of our transfer stations for free disposal.

Donate Socks Now For North Precinct Police Annual Sock Drive

2011-11-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

Some of last year's neighborhood knitted donations

The annual North Seattle Police Precinct Sock Drive is happening now and the Laurelhurst Community Club Trustees invite the neighborhood to donate through November 25th for distribution on December 7th.

Every year the neighborhoods in the North Precinct collect new socks, hats and gloves for men, women and children of all ages to distribute to family shelters and the homeless.

This year's goal is 6000 pairs of socks. Several charities need over 100 pairs of socks each month.

Last year Laurelhurst neighbors generously donated 500 of the 5,000 socks, hats and gloves that were distributed by the
North Precinct. Some of the donations had been lovingly hand knitted.

"This year we hope to exceed our numbers from last year," Linda, one of the LCC Trustees, told us.

Donations can be dropped off in the "Sox Box" at Windermere Real Estate (5424 Sand Point Way NE) Monday through Friday from 8:30-5:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10-4pm.

For evenings drop off, donations can be left in the "Sox Box"on the porch at 4723 NE 54th Street.

To have your donation picked contact eg4723@hotmail.com.

Support Laurelhurst Business, GambiaHELP, By Donating Items And Attending Charity Event Saturday

2011-11-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Shelby Tarutis, a Laurelhurst resident, who founded an organization called GambiaHELP (Health Education Liaison Project)  in 1999, sent us email about an upcoming charity event as well as a request for items to send to Gambia shortly

GamibaHelp is run out of Shelby's home in Laurelhurt, which she founded a result of her Peace Corps experience in The Gambia (1980-81) where she was posted as a Health Educator/Nutritionist in a rural village.

The organization's mission is to alleviate poverty in the rural areas of The Gambia. Their projects focus on sending girls to school, developing libraries, supporting women's small enterprise development and leadership training.

Every year Shelby's organization sends a shipping container to The Gambia containing shoes, clothing, computers (Pentium 4 and above), school supplies and educational resources, sports equipment and clothing.

Shelby is getting ready for a shipment in December with the deadline for donations is November 15th at Shelby's house located at 3920 NE 38th Street.  Contact Shelby at 206-660-5826 to drop off donations.

She told us that many of her Laurehurst neighbors have donated used clothing, school supplies, skill centers and libraries. Many neighbors also volunteer hours to our organization.   Shelby said they send a container every year to Gambia and drop-offs can be made at their Laurelhurst location at prior to transfer to Hansen Brothers Moving & Storage on Aurora.

GambiaHelp is an all volunteer, non-denominational, 501 (c) 3 and also accepts donations in which 95% of every donor dollar goes directly to fund projects. Funds go to support health and education projects in The Gambia, West Africa. Ninety-five percent (95%) of every donor dollar goes directly to fund projects.

Shelby's organization is hosting an African Dinner and Auction Fundraiser on Saturday at the Women's University Club (1105 6th Avenue) from 6:30-9:30pm.   Make your reservation here using Paypal or contact Shelby directly.

The invite says:

Come and enjoy a Gambian Dinner, Music & Dance by Maya Soleil. Plan for an exciting evening starting with music, wine and appetizers.

Enter your bid at the silent auction tables or during our live auction featuring wonderful items from the Pacific Northwest and Africa!

Tickets are $90.00/adult and $25.00/child or purchase a table for 8 for $600.00.

Hopsital Contruction Work Continuing Into Saturday

2011-11-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

Construction will be taking place at the work site at Children's Hospital on Saturday from 9-5pm.

The information says:

We expect that there will be minimal noise associated with this work, which is critical to proceed at this point. For questions and/or concerns, contact Todd Johnson at 206-469-0906

Laurelhurst Community Club Trustees Take Part In Emergency Drill - Learn More About It Tomorrow Night

2011-11-01T10:54:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Graham, one of the Laurelhurst Community Club Trustees focusing on emergency and disaster preparedness, sent us email about a drill she and two other Board members participated in recently at NE Seattle’s new Emergency Hub at the Hunter Farm Gathering Place.

She said that the Wedgewood Community invited Laurelhurst and several other northeast neighborhood representatives to participate in the citywide emergency drill organized through the City's Office of Emergency Management.

The goal was to experience and learn what was the situation in Laurelhurst would be like and what the Laurelhurst community could do to help family and neighbors stay safe.

Elizabeth is holding a one hour meeting tomorrow at7pm at her home (4723 NE 54th Street) to learn more about the drill and start working on a plan to organize the community if a large scale emergency ever took place.

As part of the recent drill, the participants were given a possible disater scenario that included a long winter storm in Seattle with snow and ice making traveling condtions nearly impossible and power out in many places, followed by 5.7 earthquake hit. Cellular and landline phone systems, as well as radio and televisions experienced failures due to infrastructure damage and power loss.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is activated due to the widespread emergency and the Mayor has declared a disaster and has requested that the Governor send National Guard Troops to assist.

The LCC Trustees, along with Dan, a ham radio operator and staff member with ESCA (EmergencyServices Coordinating Agency) drove from Hunter Farms to the Laurelhurst Community Center and began a disaster assessment on the imaginary scenario as part of the drill.

The drill continued in Laurelhurst with a house that had partially fallen into a large sink hole and into the street and the trustees needed to determine the severity of the situation, determine what help was needed (fire/rescue, medical,police, public works) and report the problem to the HUB, which then relayed the needs in order of severity to the Emergency Operations Center which would send help within 72 hours.

"This is just the beginning of 3 Laurelhurst volunteer neighbors receiving a tiny training. What will Laurelhurst really do?" Elizabeth writes in her email to us.

For more information or to attend tomorrow's meeting contact Elizabeth at eg4723@hotmail.com.

Seattle Public Library Hosts New Online Book Discussion Group Starting Today

2011-11-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

The Seattle Public Library is hosting an online book discussion group, Book Chat, featuring “Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese, starting, today through November.

The information says:

Like to read but too busy to join a book group? Are you a night owl who wants to talk about books? Book Chat is a virtual book discussion in a blog-style format hosted on the Library’s website.

Some advantages of joining Book Chat: no one can see you, there's no commitment, you don't have to host the group and you can comment wherever and whenever you like.

To find Book Chat, select “Library Collection” from the top menu, then “Books, Movies & Music” on the left. No formal registration is required to participate in Book Chat, just a name and email address.

Extra copies of the book are available at the Northeast branch while supplies last.

Book Chat is made possible by a grant from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation with support from The Seattle Public Library Foundation.

Intruder Enters Home Friday On 49th Avenue NE And NE 50th Street

2011-10-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

A reader sent us this email hoping to alert neighbors to be on the look out for the intruder that entered her home on Friday at 12:15pm:

Hello,

We live at the corner of 49th Avenue NE and NE 50th Street. Our home was broken into on in the middle of the day at 12:15pm.

They entered into our home of our upper deck, via the backyard, through a glass French door that was locked. I was not home, nor was my next door neighbor but we were lucky. We have to repair a glass door, but when it was broken our alarm was set off and the intruder run away from the noise.

The police were called by our alarm company and they secured our home. If I hadn’t turned on my alarm when I left just an hour prior, everything could have been lost.

I am sending this a note as a reminder to all that there is clearly someone in our neighborhood casing homes and even though all our doors were locked and we have alarm stickers in windows, etc., they still broke in. Secure your homes windows and doors and don’t leave anything out that could entice them if they looked into the windows, day or night.

If anyone happened to see anyone fleeing our area or parked anywhere on our corner around 12:15pm on Friday, please let laurelhurstblogger@gmail know. There should not have been any cars on either side of our home during that time except that of the intruder.

A Concerned neighbor.

Northeast Seattle Mayor's Town Hall Tomorrow

2011-10-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

Mayor Mike McGinn is holding a NE Seattle Town Hall tomorrow from 5:30-8pm at Nathan Hale High School (10750 30th Ave NE).

City Departments and Community Groups will answer questions and hear what’s on your mind.

Here is the Agenda:

5:30-6:30 Meet and Greet: City Departments and local community organizations have information tables, answer questions and offer volunteer opportunities
6:30-6:40 Youth performance
6:40-8:00 Open question and answer session with the Mayor

For more information contact James Bush (206) 684-9288 or James.Bush@Seattle.Gov.

Laurelhurst Resident And Student Hosting Meet And Greet For Bob Ferguson

2011-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Michael Bell, a Laurelhurst resident and currently a junior at Willamette University, sent us email that he is taking an entire academic year away from school for a full time internship on Bob Ferguson's campaign.

He told us: "For one of my projects I am hosting an event at my parents house on Sunday from 4-5:30pm at my parents' house located at 4108 43rd Ave NE.

"This will be a chance for people in our neighborhood to meet a candidate for Attorney General of Washington. Bob Ferguson will be there answering questions and giving a speech."

Michael said the event is family friendly and there will be live music and snacks.

UW Launches New Neighborhoods Website

2011-10-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

The UW Office of Regional and Community Relations announced this week the launching of 13 new web portals spotlighting local neighborhoods called UW in Seattle Neighborhoods.

UW in Seattle Neighborhoods is organized into geographic areas within the City of Seattle according to a system developed by the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. Laurelhurst is included in the Northeast Seattle "neighborhood." Such facts as how many students, UW employees and alumni are given.

Information for the website was gathered from departments and other informational resources within the University; historic archives and websites; the City of Seattle; community and non-profit organizations; community blogs and websites; and UW alumni.

The website "tells the story of how the UW has contributed to shaping great Seattle communities over its 150 year history, including local landmarks, people and programs that continue to have an impact today."

The website is in the first phase as new information as it develops. Readers can send suggested updates to regional@uw.edu, or mailed to Web Portals/Regional and Community Relations/UW Box 351243/Seattle 98195-351243. Comments about the website can be posted to the UW community blog.

Kids Karnival At Laurelhurst Elementary School Tomorrow

2011-10-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Laurelhurst Elementary School is having its annual Halloween Karnival tomorrow from 5 to 8pm.

As always, there will be lots of games, crafts and more, and a delicious Varlamos pizza dinner.

This fundraiser is fun for the whole family for kids of all ages.

Halloween Events At Magnuson Tomorrow and Monday

2011-10-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

Magnuson Community Center is having some fun Halloween events:

Haunted Hangar Teen Flashlight Hunt - Friday 7:30-9pm
Ages 11-14 Free
Join us for music, food and fun at our annual haunted prize and candy hunt. Don’t forget your flashlight!

Halloween Makeup HeadquartersMagnuson Community Center (Windermere Room and lobby) - Monday 2:30-4:30pm
Ages: 2-12 Donations happily accepted
Kids, get your face painted by theatre experts! Seattle Musical Theatre folks will be on hand to paint faces for the biggest dress-up day of the year! Please call 206-684-7026 to make an appointment.

Laurelhurst Resident and Owner Of Pinocchio Toys Dies

2011-10-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

Judith Gerald Beuche, a Laurelhurst resident and former owner of Pinocchio Toys for 38 years, died October, 16th, Jennifer Roberts her former neighbor told us.

Jennifer said "Our dear former Laurelhurst neighbor, Judy Beuche, passed away on October 16th. She has no family in town, but made a huge impact on this community, which became her family, through her toy store Pinocchio's."

She added that her sister, Pat Rainwater, has set up a Legacy.com site with the obituary and a guest book.

"It would mean a lot to the extended Beuche and Gerald family if as many Laurelhurst neighbors and friends could sign the Guest Book. Would you be able to share this sad news with the community and encourage people to share their memories and condolences with the family on this Legacy website?" Jennifer said.

(photo courtesy of http://ahhs1960.com/photographs.html)

Learn About Stormwater And Life In The Gutter Tonight

2011-10-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Stormwater: Life in the Gutter, written by Stokley Towles will be performed for free at the Northeast branch (6801 35th Avenue NE) of the Seattle Public Library tonight at 6:30pm.

The nearly one-hour piece consists of stories about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) employees and their work, and gives a gutter's eye-view on those who live in Seattle.

The show is the third in a series of performance pieces Towles has created in partnership with Seattle Public Utilities.

The SPU website says:

Last year, Towles developed Trash Talk, a one-man show on the social life of garbage. In 2009, Towles performed Waterlines as part of our Water Calling series, reflecting SPU's management of the cycle of hydrology from drinking water through drainage. Watch a video of Waterlines.

Stormwater: Life in the Gutter is intended to address environmental stewardship, especially in areas where SPU is concerned. The piece uncovers the world of urban rainfall and the people who live, work and play in it.

Meet Ellen, a gutter detective, and her "baby in the middle of the city." Meet James who observes floating rivers. Learn about John's trips into the bowels of the city and what he finds there.

The show runs through November 19th at various locations.

(photo courtesy of SPU website)