Teens Damaging Magnuson Sign

The Laurelhurst Blog received this information:

I’m a Laurelhurst community resident and wanted to share an experience that I witnessed on Monday, March 23rd.  I encountered a group of teens up to some mischief at Magnuson Park. 

They were ripping a sign out from the ground  near the boat launch (see the x on the map below). They basically were grabbing the signpost and rocking it back and forth until it came out of the ground.  

They fled when I took out my phone to take their pictures.  That’s the sign lying on the ground in the picture. 

Magnuson Audubon Walk Tomorrow

The Seattle Audubon Society is having a walk tomorrow at Magnuson park from 9-11am.

The information says:

We will be walking 2 miles, uphill and down, looking and listening for forest birds. 

Then we will stroll through the wetlands, looking for water birds.   

This walk is suitable for any level of bird-watcher, including children (accompanied by adult).  

For more information go here. 

Magnuson Wading Pool Fire Damage Repaired

Nearby Magnuson Park wading pool opened on Saturday, along with many others in Seattle.

Magnuson wading pool has been repaired since a bonfire in the wading pool caused $1,500 in damages that required cement surface repair, grate replacement, and filter replacement.


Seattle Parks and Recreation said:

We need the community's help because this is the third instance of vandalism over the past year. A social media campaign is underway to help spread the word on protecting our parks. There have been multiple reports of vandalism at the Magnuson Park Wading Pool. During the summer season, it means the wading pool is closed for extended periods of time while parts are on order and repairs scheduled.

More information is available on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter posts and the Seattle Parks and Recreation website.

Go here for a list of operating dates and hours of each wading pool. Wading pools are open on sunny days when the temperature is forecast to be 70 degrees or above.

Magnuson Park wading pool damage

City Seeking Proposals For Magnuson Building Spaces

A neighbor would like to share this information from Seattle Parks and Recreation:

Seattle Parks and Recreation seeks proposals for the redevelopment of the Building 47 Theater at Magnuson Park. Proposals are due Wednesday. 

Building 47 was designed and constructed as one structure in 1941 and the building currently contains the theater, a decommissioned indoor swimming pool room, and the Magnuson Community Center. This Request for Proposal (RFP) package seeks submissions regarding the theater and the indoor swimming pool sections of the building only. 

The theater contains approximately 9,130 square feet of space, including a main floor, lobby, stage, lower level (green room), mezzanine and balcony (including projection room). The indoor swimming pool room contains approximately 5,640 square feet of space.    

Parks is seeking proposers who can make a significant capital investment in exchange for a long-term agreement. Proposals should include the management and operation of arts, theater, and film and/or cultural programming that will be open to the public. SPR does not have designated funding for this redevelopment; therefore, proposals should also include a well-defined funding plan to upgrade the building to meet all current code requirements.

 

For more information or to download a copy of the RFP packet, go here. 

Saturday Owl Walk At Magnuson

Saturday evening there will be a family nature walk at Magnuson at 8:30pm. The information says:

This month’s family nature walk will be a night-time owl-prowl! Join a Master Birder and a Magnuson Children’s Garden Naturalist to find and observe Magnuson Park’s resident Barn Owls. This is a family-focused activity; adults must be accompanied by children. Meet by the Magnuson Park Community Center. No registration is necessary.

Today Bird Walk At Magnuson With Audubon Society

The Seattle Audubon Society is having a birding walk today at Magnuson starting at 9am.

The information says:

We will be walking ~2 miles, uphill and down, looking and listening for forest birds. Then we will stroll through the wetlands, looking for water birds. As time allows, we may finally reach Lake Washington. This walk is suitable for any level of bird-watcher, including children (accompanied by adult). Bring binoculars, warm water-proof clothes/shoes, water, and a willingness to stop & listen.

 

The leader is Jan Bragg.  Meet at Promontory Point Environmental Learning Center, west side of boat launch parking lot off NE 65th Street

Go here for more information and to register.

Seniors Walk At Magnuson Saturday

Seattle Parks and recreation is having a walk for seniors at Magnuson on Saturday from 10-30 to noon.

The information states:
Mindfulness in the Wetlands:

"Opening your Senses to Spring". Integrating elements of Mindfulness Meditation and Shinrin-Yoku (Japanese Forest Bathing), you will learn to calm your mind and open your senses to the wonders of spring while experiencing the wetlands in a whole new way.  

Taught by Mindful in the Wild team, psychotherapist Deborah Wilk, LMFT and naturopathic physician Jessica Hancock, ND. Meet at the Promontory Point Environmental Learning Center accessed from the boat ramp parking area E1, then stroll slowly and mindfully through the wonderful wetlands. 

Go here for more information.

Today Historic Storms Talk At Magnuson

NEST (Northeast Seattle Together), which supports Northeast Seattle elder neighbors through a network of volunteers and vendors, is having a presentation today at 2pm called "Storm Warning: Historic Weather in the Evergreen State." 

The event is being held at the Magnuson Park Brig (6344 NE 74th Street) in the Garden Room.

The information says:

Local broadcaster and historian Feliks Banel explores our region’s darkest weather days and most infamous storms. With archival photos, radio, and TV clips, Banel takes us back in time to hear stories of those who survived some of the worst Pacific Northwest weather in recorded history. 

Further, Banel explores how these storms can revive our shared humanity. Frightening weather can bind communities together to share resources, commiserate, and protect each other. Participants are encouraged to share their own memories of how they survive being snowed in, washed out, or left without power in the wake of a big storm—and why we remember those moments for the rest of our lives.  

Feliks Banel is a writer and producer, and serves as editor of COLUMBIA, the quarterly magazine of the Washington State Historical Society. He has been a host and contributor for KIRO Radio on matters of Northwest history and culture for many years; he created the history series This NOT Just In for KUOW Public Radio; and he produces documentaries for the Seattle Channel.

For more information go here or call the NEST office at 206-525-6378 or email info@nestseattle.org.

NEST is a non-profit grassroots operation serving NE Seattle seniors by creating a "virtual village" to helping them be able to stay in their own homes and neighborhoods they love. Volunteers provide companionship, care, as well as help seniors with a wide range of services, including gardening, computer help and more. to seniors aging in their homes. Ongoing classes (fitness, etc) are also offered, as well as access to events, transportation services, and various services (such as estate planners) who provide their services at a discount to members.

Monday Status Of Seattle Musical Theatre Meeting

The Laurelhurst Blog received this information from Seattle Musical Theatre:

The City of Seattle has notified Seattle Musical Theatre that Building 47 (which we share with the Magnuson Community Center) is scheduled for renovation beginning in the summer of 2020.  

Concurrently, the Parks Department has decided not to renew our lease, but instead to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the entire building.  

The first of a series of public meetings will be this Monday, April 1, from 5-8 pm (Magnuson Community Center, day care will be provided in the gym).  

Seattle Parks and Rec announces open houses of Building 47: April 11th (10am-12pm) – theatre, May 23rd (10am-12pm) theatre and May 30th (10am-12pm) - theatre.  

This is an opportunity for the SMT community to demonstrate its ongoing support of SMT's residency at Magnuson Park. If you are available, we would appreciate your attendance. For additional info please call the theatre office (206) 363-2809 or reply to this message. 

Although it's disconcerting that our tenancy is in jeopardy, it also presents an exciting opportunity to realize our long-term vision of a performing arts center. If you would like more details on the community center expansion, please attend one of the open houses, and/or contact:  

Rob Johnson, Councilperson, Seattle City Council, District 4 rob.johnson@seattle.gov 

Debora Juarez, Councilperson, Seattle City Council District 5 Debora.Juarez@seattle.gov 

Christopher Williams, Superintendent, Seattle DRP Christopher.Williams@seattle.gov  

Oliver Bazinet, Project Manager oliver.bazinet@seattle,gov 

Thank you for supporting musical theatre!

In February of last year, the by Seattle Musical Theatre, was awarded a substantial grant and along with funds raised from subscribers, it enabled a complete rebuild of the aging stage, called the "Save the Stage project."

The Theatre has had a 40 year history in this area with the past 13 years spent in Building 47 at Magnuson, using the original movie theater of the Sand Point Naval Air Station, in the historic building.

The original home of Civic Light Opera was the Jane Addams School theatre, where the company performed for 25 seasons. In 2002, the company moved to the Shoreline Community Center, and then to Magnuson in 2004. In 2006, the Board of Directors changed the name to  Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT).

Sundays Magnuson Walks For 50+

Seattle Parks and Recreation Lifelong Learning is having Sunday morning walks at Magnuson at 10am. 

The information says:
Explore the park each Sunday mornings at 10 am. Organized with adults 50+ in mind, and all ages welcome. Varied terrain and flexible distance. 

Go here for more details and to register.  online https://apm.activecommunities.com/seattle/Home with Activity #18449.

The Lifelong Recreation website says:

The programs focus on physical activity, social engagement, education, arts, creativity, and healthy lifestyles.  Recreational programs are designed to serve adults of all abilities - those who are physically active, those who are just becoming active, and programs for those who have age-related limitations.   

Lifelong Recreation programs are aimed at increasing individual health and wellness while fostering a stronger, healthier community.  Many participants boast about completing a half marathon each year, making meaningful social connections, losing weight, increasing flexibility and balance, and travelling to regional destinations. Join the fun if you're 50+.

Go here for the Spring brochure. 

Saturday Magnuson Wetlands Evening Walk

Seattle Parks is having a late night bird walk at Magnuson tomorrow 9-11am with leader Emily Bishton, Naturalist and Master Birder. The cost is $15.

The information says:

Magnuson Tree Frog Walk

Celebrate spring by taking a guided wetlands walk to look for our native tree frogs. Late winter is the time when they are at their most active, hopping up out of the ponds to "sing" up a storm and attract a mate. Dusk is the perfect time of day to see and hear them, as well as being a good chance to spot Magnuson's resident beaver family!  

Your donation will benefit Magnuson Children's Garden free monthly garden classes for the whole family, which begin in April. 

Leader: Emily Bishton, Naturalist and Master Birder
Intergenerational Walk 11872 3/30 Sat 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Magnuson Late Night Walk 11871 3/30 Sat 8:45-10:45 p.m. Magnuson

Go here to register.

Historic Building 18 at Magnuson Park To Be Used By Outdoors For All

Seattle Parks and Recreation posted this information:


Seattle Parks and Recreation enters contract negotiations to re-develop and restore historic Building 18 at Magnuson Park

Seattle Parks and Recreation has invited Outdoors for All to enter into contract negotiations for a long-term lease agreement to re-develop, restore and activate historic Building 18 at Magnuson Park.  

Building 18 is a 13,247-sqaure foot, two-story brick building that was constructed in 1936 and served as the former Naval Station firehouse. Outdoors for All was selected following the department’s issuance of a Request for Proposal process in August 2018.

Outdoors for All, whose mission is “To enrich the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities through outdoor recreation,” plans to use the space to offer a wide variety of adaptive recreation programs, and will provide opportunities for public access and public benefits.  

“We are excited to move forward with Outdoors for All on redeveloping one of the last remaining vacant buildings at Magnuson Park,” said Christopher Williams, Seattle Parks and Recreation Interim Superintendent. “Outdoors for All provides opportunities for families and children with disabilities to connect to the natural world and is in keeping with the department’s values of supporting healthy people, a healthy environment and strong communities.”

“We are thrilled that the City shares our big vision for the building – we want it to be a showpiece for the transformative powers of adaptive recreation, and a launching pad for our program participants, volunteers, employees and anyone else,” said Ed Bronsdon, executive director of Outdoors for All. “We look forward to reaching a lease agreement with the City so we can formally begin the renovation.”

 

Tomorrow Audubon Bird Walk At Magnuson

The Seattle Audubon Society is having a morning bird walk at Magnuson with Karen Wosilait tomorrow from 9-11am. 

The information says: 

Magnuson Park offers a variety of habitats, including ponds, forest, fields, and a lake named after a president. 

We will be walking 2 miles, up hill and down, looking and listening for forest birds.  Then we will stroll through the wetlands, looking for water birds.  This walk is suitable for any level of bird-watcher, including children (accompanied by adult).  Bring binoculars, warm water-proof clothes/shoes, water, and a willingness to stop and listen.

Meet at 9am at the Promontory Point Environmental Learning Center, a red-metal-roofed structure next to the little drive-in road at the west edge of parking lot E-1. It is marked with a pink square on the Magnuson Park map.

Monday NEST Lecture On Downsizing

NEST (Northeast Seattle Together), which supports Northeast Seattle elder neighbors through a network of volunteers and vendors, is having a presentation on Monday at 2pm called "The Upside of Downsizing: Getting to Enough." 

The event is being held at the Magnuson Park Brig (6344 NE 74th Street) in the Garden Room.

The information says:

Dr. Sara Hart will discuss her book: The Upside of Downsizing: Getting to Enough and her experience dealing with the emotional impact of downsizing. In this caring and lighthearted presentation, Dr. Hart will offer helpful hints on how to communicate effectively with Real Estate Agents, Professional Downsizers, Stagers, and friends and family. Dr. Hart will offer sage advice about taking care of yourself during the process and understanding what “getting to enough” means and how it can be so helpful to you. 

“How will I know when I have enough?” That is the question Sara Hart asks audiences when talking about her special project called Sign of Enough. She began her project in the mid 1990’s, and recently her passion has been refueled as the results of our over consumption and greed become more and more obvious. The idea also became the watch word for her as she completed a major downsizing of her home.  

Dr. Hart has been involved in helping to develop leaders and effective teams inside organizations for 30+ years. Prior to founding her own management consulting company, Hartcom, Sara was in charge of Training and Development for the research division of Pfizer both in the US and the UK. She has facilitated hundreds of groups and presented to scores of meetings.  

For more information go here or call the NEST office at 206-525-6378 or email info@nestseattle.org.

NEST is a non-profit grassroots operation serving NE Seattle seniors by creating a "virtual village" to helping them be able to stay in their own homes and neighborhoods they love. Volunteers provide companionship, care, as well as help seniors with a wide range of services, including gardening, computer help and more. to seniors aging in their homes. Ongoing classes (fitness, etc) are also offered, as well as access to events, transportation services, and various services (such as estate planners) who provide their services at a discount to members.

Magnuson's Seattle Musical Theatre To Perform "Aida"

Seattle Musical Theatre, located at Magnuson, will be performing Elton John and Tim Rice’s' "Aida" from February 8-24.

The information says:

Based on Verdi’s beloved 19th century opera, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida is a timeless story of forbidden love set on the banks of the Nile. Featuring a Tony and Grammy award-winning score, Troy Wageman directs the talented local cast through rousing rock numbers and heart-wrenching ballads. Elton John and Tim Rice’s characteristic pop style is undeniable; the stylistically eclectic reggae, gospel, Motown, African, Indian, and Middle Eastern influences have solidified Aida’s place in history with nearly 2000 Broadway performances and countless revivals.

The theater was awarded a substantial grant and together with funds raised from subscribers, to enable a complete rebuild of the aging stage, called the "Save the Stage project."

The Theatre has a 40 year history in this area with the past 13 years spent in Building 47 at Magnuson, using the original movie theater of the Sand Point Naval Air Station, in the historic building.

Seattle Musical Theatre, originally called the Civic Light Opera was first located at Jane Addams School theater, where the company performed for 25 seasons. In 2002, the company moved to the Shoreline Community Center, and then to Magnuson in 2004. In 2006, the Board of Directors changed the name to Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT).

Here is a press release on "Save the Stage project":

Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT) has received an award from the Morgan Family Foundation to rebuild the stage at their historic theatre in Magnuson Park.
SMT kicked off the “Save the Stage” rebuild with the support of Artfund’s “power2give.”After meeting the initial target goal, fundraising has continued through Seattle Foundation’s “GiveBig” and King County Employees Annual Giving Program.  

SMT began its campaign to “Save the Stage” after an inspection in 2016 revealed that the temporary stage built ten years earlier would need to be demolished and rebuilt. This inspection also uncovered a surprise.  

Amidst the sagging timbers was a crescent shaped half wall dating back to the Navy’s construction of the building in 1941; it was the original orchestra pit used to support the screening of silent films. The location of the pit was apparently too far upstage for musical theatre productions, so a stage extension was built over it.  

Meanwhile, new Artistic Director Tyrone Brown began questioning the location of the orchestra in relation to the stage. “SMT has been plagued by poor acoustics in this facility. Why not return the orchestra to the center the way the Navy, in its wisdom, first envisioned it?”  

“That’s when we discovered a crawl space under the theatre floor,” noted Brown. “We stepped up the fund-raising campaign and last week received the wonderful news that Seattle Foundation, through its partner organization, the Morgan Family Foundation, will fund permanently moving the orchestra to the center after dropping the theatre floor about two feet to create the new pit.”  

“We would like to move the original orchestra pit to the new location after the temporary stage is demolished,” says Tom Ansart, Secretary, and SMT board member. He noted that the old pit is still accessible from the backstage dressing room in the basement. “I presume the musicians entered the pit from the green room. Although it probably isn’t feasible to move the existing wall, we can copy its features in the new design. For historic preservation, we will leave the original wall in place.”

For more information go here.