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Sat 7/30-8/6 at Everest Park, Kirkland is once again proudly hosting the Junior Softball World Series. That's big time, people. Nine teams..players from all over this planet are coming to our city this weekend for some serious competition, and it's really fun to watch. Ok, maybe I used to play softball and am a little biased, but the coolest part is that our local girls are participating! Even ESPN will be there, so you should be too. Go Kirkland! Great website with lots of details on the tournament here.
Sat 7/30- If you feel like doing a little bargain shopping- the Kirkland Highlands Annual Garage Sale is from 9am-2pm. Access the neighborhood at the corner of NE 85th and 114th Ave NE and follow the signs to participating homes.
This Sat 7/30: Music (and Motorcycles!)in the Park. Marina Park will be thumping this weekend from 4-9 pm on Sat with concerts in the park. Mirrorgloss will be headlining and you are encouraged to cruise your motorcycle down. Sunshine and extra motorcycle parking expected.
On Sunday 7/31, the Kirkland's beloved Classic Car show rev's up between 10-4 at Marina Park downtown. Larry Hanson is co-host and Lance Lambert of "The Vintage Vehicle Show" will be your emcee. Anyone can come and register their car in the show- reg starts at 6am on Sunday or you can email firstname.lastname@example.com. The favorite Motorcycle will receive a prize also!
Plenty of volunteer opportunities still await you too for this weekend: http://www.signupgenius.com/
And then....thinking ahead to even more fun, if that's possible...is our 5th Annual Summerfest on Fri 8/12 and Sat 8/13. Problem is, they are a bit short on funding for things like police, permits, entertainment, publicity. Go ahead and throw in a few bucks here. You'll be glad you did when you're sipping that cold Summerfest beer in a few weeks.
Metropolitan Market's Peach-O-Rama
Nobody in their right mind would miss Peach-O-Rama. It's that time of year when Metropolitan Market in Houghton brings in the best and juiciest peaches your taste buds have ever witnessed. If I tell my kids, they will beg me to take them there. They are THAT good. And it's a 20 year anniversary, so they are teaming up with Chef Jason Wilson of Miller's Guild, Coffee Flour, and the soon-to-open Lakeside and Civility & Unrest in Bellevue, to show shoppers how they can recreate peach dishes at home. Chef Jason will bring his innovative approach and craft cooking to Metropolitan Market's Kirkland location on Saturday July 30, 12-2 p.m. He'll man the grill and show shoppers how to create a Grilled Summer Peach Salad with Ricotta and Prosciutto (photo) as well as Marinated Peaches, Buttermilk Quinoa Cakes & Basil Crème Fraiche, dishing samples as he goes.
Crime in Kirkland
I attended the "Norkirk and Market Neighborhood Crime Update" given by the KPD last night. It was a PACKED house. Actually, there were so many people in that overheated Peter Kirk room I could barely breathe in any oxygen and concentrate enough to listen. So here's what I learned from an hour in that richly fragrant room (your'e welcome). People are freaked out because it's the season where burglars start swinging into town and cherry-picking our homes and vehicles. The KPD says that although it seems more rampant, it's actually b/c social media allows us to communicate about it, therefore perpetuating our state of panic. Statistically crime has been pretty flat year over year. City-wide in 2014 there were 88 residential burglaries Jan-June, 115 in 2015, and 91 in 2016 during the same time span. Motor vehicle thefts were 61 ('15) vs 56 ('16) and motor vehicle prowls were up a little from 299 '15 to 319 '16. So, back to basics, folks. Don't be afraid to call 911 to report anything suspicious. Always report your crimes, even if someone just stole your Barry Manilow CD out of your car. It's an 'incident' and should go on record so they can track and investigate these bad guys. We know it's summer and fun but don't leave your garage open, car unlocked, windows open, etc. It's an invitation to be taken advantage of. Cameras are good, so are those cool video doorbells, lighting for the exterior of your home, and being an active/aware neighbor. Chief Harris shared that she is actively trying to backfill 10 open officer positions to catch up with recent retirement vacancies, so we should have more feet on the street over time too.
I love that you are all emailing me today saying "Cactus is Open! Cactus is Open!" You guys are the best. It's like you know how thirsty I am, and it's good to feel your excitement too. The motif is feeling kind of traditional Spanish decor from what I spied yesterday while talking to the nice guy mopping the floors (he was still saying 'maybe a week'). They appeared to be having a rah-rah staff meeting but I couldn't hear what they were saying b/c my eyes were fixated on the wall of tequila bottles. Anyway, it's happening. Time to go check it out and rejoice- add your comments here after your visit!
In case you wanted to step outside and into the danger zone with your drink, I suggest you don't. Kirkland was kind enough to remind us of our stumbling boundaries with these beautiful new appetizer plate-sized warning medallions embossed in the brick pavement.
Also very real and open again just in time for summer... Waverly Beach Park! Thanks Kirkland Parks Foundation and all of the donors who helped make this happen.
I need your help figuring out the following things...
Kobie Cafe- Not sure what to say. In the space formerly known as Haute Dog Girl at 200 Central Way. It's a sweet Seattle guy eagerly trying to make a go of it in Kirkland with sandwiches, hot dogs and smoothies/bubble teas. I had never been in the hot dog joint (shocker, right?) so I'm not sure what's changed. All appears the same to me. Yelpers seem to like it. Short and sweet menu is very affordable. If you have a 10 spot you'll be good to go. Food seemed alright for its purpose - big white bread panini with dry nachos on the side. I had never tried bubble tea before. It was an explosion of fruity gel color and sweet yumminess until I got attacked by the tapiocas at the end (you can get without).
Cactus-just when you thought your home remodel was taking forever...Cactus has you beat on the Richter scale of frustrations. I think the original sign said they'd re-open in May. Yikes. That's a few tacos behind schedule. You'll be interested to know that what I supposed was an expansion was in reality a total gut of the space. So we have that to look forward to! The bar will be on the opposite side of where it started, and new decor is taking shape. About a month ago one of their workers told me 'a few more weeks.' And then again this week someone told me 'a few more weeks.' Standard response in foreman language. So... a few more weeks at least til the next weeks of anticipating chillaxin' with margaritas at our new Kirkland Cactus. Their website says "See you in mid-July. We promise." So they may be laughing at themselves too?
Michael's- I have to admit that having a Michael's in town really comes in handy. I'm in there more often than I'd like to admit on crafty missions or last minute school project emergencies. But I'm also kind of embarrassed for Michael's and the condition of that hideous building they are functioning out of. It's like 1971 just threw up on a giant shoe box. Then last week someone dropped a few freight containers that are lined up around the perimeter. I'm wondering if my prayers have been answered and they are going to do some remodeling?
Fun Fourth in Kirkland! Little chilly for me, but good times nonetheless. Thanks to the organizers, sponsors and volunteers and especially all of those that have served and sacrificed for our country. Happy Birthday Merica! Sharing a couple of pics- what's a parade without mermaids? Lots of representation from the die-hard Seahawks fans. My son is still talking about that Lambo.
Who won the Big $$ in the float contest?? The Mermaids took second to this one, Falun Dafa, which was pretty impressive I'll agree.
Studio East's 19th Annual Summer Musical is bringing together the Kirkland community for the production of The Wizard of Oz. The 49 person cast includes performers ages 9 – 19 in ensemble and principle roles while featuring Kirkland Mayor Amy Walen as the Mayor of Munchkin Land, and other Kirkland officials and luminaries as her loyal subjects. Playing at the Kirkland Performance Center from July 30 – August 7, this production is a community event for the whole family.
Ford Hyundai of Kirkland presents
The Wizard of Oz
Directed by Lani Brockman
Musically Directed by Susan Bardsley
Choreographed by Kristin Burch
Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog Toto, as they journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their hearts' desires. Watch out for the Wicked Witch of the West and her winged monkeys as you rediscover the real story of Oz in this fantastic musical treat for the entire family.
Studio East's 19th Annual Summer Musical features Kirkland Mayor Amy Walen as the Mayor of Munchkin Land, and other Kirkland officials and luminaries as her loyal subjects. Recommended for ages 5+.
All tickets $18. Sold though KPC box office only. Reserved Seating
After 6 years in their Market Street location, Winslow Salon has re-opened at 118 Central Way as of June 1st (Haute Salon's old spot). Owner Ashley Winslow Newbury has taken the opportunity to do a little re-branding for her comfortable luxury salon, but one thing that hasn't changed is her team of loyal stylists. "I'm very lucky to have such great support. Most of my team has been with me for a long time which is unusual in this industry," she shared appreciatively. She is also enjoying the excitement that comes with being in the center of downtown Kirkland. With 11 stations and 12 stylists (and growing), the salon is buzzing with clients that are chatting away in their bright, spacious surroundings. Services include cuts, color, balayage, and keratin/Brazilian blowout treatments that range from $40 to $300 depending on the service and stylist. Winslow carries the Oribe line of products and R+Co (Oribe's other line).
Stylist Kristin Shea gave me a blowout, and despite my super straight and notoriously uncooperative hair, she created these fun tousled waves that earned me compliments all day long. It's funny how hard us ladies have to try to make it look like we didn't try at all. Winslow Salon is open Mon- Fri 10-17 and Sat 9-5. After hours by appt. 425-629-3686. Swing by to say hello and score some giveaways/product discounts at their Grand Re-Opening party on July 16th at 6:30, which will coincide with Kirkland Uncorked weekend.
Celebrate Kirkland! 4th announces $1000 and $500 cash prizes for the best parade entries!
Here's a fun opportunity to increase participation and excitement surrounding the Lee Johnson Auto Family's annual 4th of July Parade with the theme "It's a Small World".
Celebrate Kirkland, in partnership with the Kirkland Downtown Association, is including $1000 first place cash prize for the best parade entry in the annual Lee Johnson Auto Family 4th of July Parade. Included in the contest is a $500 cash prize for the second favorite entry and all entries will be competing to receive high scores from an independent panel of judges. How's that for ya? God Bless America. Sign up on the Celebrate Kirkland website.
The Kirkland Parks Foundation had so much fun providing fresh sand for the beach at Marina Park last summer that they are doing it again—and they are including Houghton Beach this time around! From now until June 30th, you can help support this project to provide new sand just in time the start of summer.
Who doesn't love playing in the sand? Sand castles! Sand angels! Wiggling bare toes in warm sand! Our waterfront parks are a huge attraction for kids but do not naturally have very fine sand.
Let's bring in some fresh sand to play with. Each beach needs two truckloads of sand and each truckload costs $500, for a total of $1000 per beach. It's super easy to donate here.
A new sign went up (in Savrika Tea's old spot) at 115 Kirkland Ave for LizzyKate, a new tea shop that is bustling to get ready to open their doors by July 4th. Owners Will and Amy are Kirkland locals and tea enthusiasts, and want to share their passion and what they've learned with others. So why not call it "Will and Amy? " Will says, "we noticed that a lot of tea companies have masculine names and we wanted a feminine, yet modern name. So we took two classic names, Elizabeth and Katherine, and modernized them to make LizzyKate. Elizabeth and Katherine are also family names, and we like how the modern combination of these traditional names makes a fun company name for our modern take on the traditional world of tea." Their teas come from all over the world- black, green, white, oolong, and herbal. Their full tea selection is here, and can also be ordered online. LizzyKate's storefront presence will feature a tasting bar in the center of the space, to encourage everyone to come in and try something new. Check out their Facebook page to follow the latest in teas. email@example.com with questions. 425-250-6878
In other Kirkland Ave news......
Zaw Artisan Pizza has closed their Kirkland storefront. If you are still craving those unique hand-made pizzas that you bake at home, you can still order online for delivery.
Sugar Plum has moved from Mosaic to its own space down the block (223 Kirkland Ave) Sugaring is a sugar/water/citric acid alternative to waxing. Details here. For pricing or to book an appt go online. 206-512-3033.
The Heathman Hotel's Trellis Pastry Chef, Jacquelynn Beckman, has created some new gluten-free dessert options just in time for bikini season: Red Velvet Layer Cake "Chocolate Terroir" with chocolate mousse layers and caramelized beet swirl ice cream; Blueberry Citrus Thyme Hand Pie served w/blood orange creamsicle ice cream; Marshmallow Chocolate Cake "Cocoa puff" with almond tuile and coconut sorbet. 425-284-5900 for reservations.
The Downtown Kirkland Wine Walk is this Friday June 17th from 6-9pm. You'll start at the Heathman Hotel and meander (stumble?) to 14 different downtown locations for tastings. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased here. This is a 21+ event so best to leave your puppies and little peeps at home. Questions? Call 425-822-7066.
Photo: River Liffey by Walt Krueger
Once your wine headache wears off, on Saturday 6/18 head to the Wilde Rover (111 Central Way) for a James Joyce Bloomsday Celebration. What is Bloomsday you ask?? Ulysses author James Joyce's Bloomsday refers to June 16, 1904 and a day in the life of Leopold Bloom, the main character in the Joyce novel, a book acclaimed as one of the greatest works of fiction ever written. Fans of the book host events on or about that day annually around the world. There will readings, Irish music, open mike and a movie, in addition to a presentation by a retired UW Professor of Comparative Literature to discuss the adaptation of The Dead from text to screen. Check out the Kirkland Bloomsday Facebook page for more info.
Also on Saturdays, don't forget to visit Little Brother's Farmers Market between 10-3 at 450 Central Way (Arete Building). Local farmers selling their products; fresh produce, baked goodies, fresh flowers, ciders (apple, blueberry, pear), tomato and basil plants, meat, peanuts - and live music too!
Kirkland citizens are raising concerns about the recent proposal that Carillon Point has submitted to the city requesting to operate sea planes from their dock. This is open to public comment until June 20th. Below is a letter submitted that summarizes the process and what to do if you would like to learn more or give your feedback on the proposal. You will also find a fact sheet provided by Carillon Point outlining their intent.
Last chance for input regarding seaplanes at Carillon Point!
Carillon Point has submitted a request to be allowed to operate seaplanes out of their dock. June 20 is the last chance to submit comments!
The service would include two planes docking along the guest pier of the Woodmark Hotel, offering 20-minute flights. The planes would operate from 9 a.m. to one hour before sunset, year-round. If the permit is approved, it could open the door for similar operations elsewhere in Kirkland.
After city planners complete their review process, there will be a public hearing. A hearing date has not yet been set, but will probably be in September, and will be in the evening.
Any residents or property owners who received notices from the city will be notified of the hearing, as well as anyone who sends written comments. Those who send written comments will also have the ability to appeal. The public notice signs, city notice board at City Hall, and City website will also be posted with the hearing date.
After the hearing, the City Hearing Examiner will make a decision to approve, modify, or deny the application. The decision will be based on whether the application complies with Kirkland's Zoning Code and other applicable codes. The final decision will be made by the State Department of Ecology.
If you have concerns about noise or other impacts, it is urgent that you send them before June 20 at 5 pm. If seaplanes are allowed at Carillon Point, it would set a precedent for seaplanes to be allowed elsewhere on the lake.
Permit information can be viewed at https://permitsearch.mybuildingpermit.com/. Enter permit number SHR16-00803.
In your letter, reference SHR16-00803 and send the email to:
The above list includes:
Planner Christian Geitz firstname.lastname@example.com
Planning Director Eric Shields <firstname.lastname@example.com>
City Manager Kurt Triplett firstname.lastname@example.com
Mayor Amy Walen firstname.lastname@example.com
Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold firstname.lastname@example.com
Councilmember Shelley Kloba firstname.lastname@example.com
Councilmember Penny Sweet email@example.com
Councilmember Toby Nixon firstname.lastname@example.com
Councilmember Dave Asher email@example.com
Councilmember Doreen Marchione email@example.com
Carillon Point – Conditional Use Permit Fact Sheet
Proposed Seaplane Operation
Location: Carillon Point Guest Pier, 7000 Carillon Point, Kirkland, WA 98033
Hours of Operation: Seven days per week, 9am to 1 hour prior to sunset --- appointments via website with limited walk-on availability during summer evenings and weekends. Carillon Point is seeking permission to operate within these hours, however actual use will fluctuate depending on the time of year, weather and availability of the operator.
Flight Frequency: Not more than one per hour --- the cycle of the flight procedure includes completion of paperwork, pre-flight check and approximate 25-minute sight-seeing tour.
Aircraft Specs: Limited to Cessna 185F with a piston engine and 3 bladed Hartzell Propeller 1C160/DTM7557M (or similar). *** Please note, only one (1) plane would be present at any given time – this is not a proposal for a full-blown seaplane operation featuring larger, noisier aircraft similar to other seaplane operations on Lake Washington.
Operator: Seaplane Scenics --- www.seaplanescenics.com
Noise: The overall maximum sound produced by Seaplanes is ~75dB, which maximum sound is only produced during takeoff (a duration of approximately 20 seconds) which shall only take place over 1,000 feet from the shoreline.
By way of comparison, the sound produced by existing motorboat and jet ski traffic on Lake Washington can fluctuate between 65-110dB for the entire duration of travel time on the lake.
As part of the proposed operation, it is estimated that during the busy season (Apr-Sept) Seaplane Scenics will only produce a total of 18 minutes of maximum sound per week (equivalent to 74 minutes per month). During the off season (Oct-Mar) only intermittent flights will be scheduled.
Impacts: As part of the permitting process a qualified, third-party Wildlife Habitat Assessment was prepared and submitted to the City of Kirkland. This assessment concluded the following:
Existing Uses: Carillon Point is a Class-A, mixed use commercial development featuring an existing, full-service 200-slip marina offering year round private moorage of personal boats, yachts and jet skis.
Waterfront Adventures seasonal rentals featuring, passenger boats, jet skis,
paddle boards and kayaks.
436 feet of Guest Pier moorage facilities offering short-term, first-come, first-served (2 hour) docking for individual and private vessels along with access for commercial tour vessels operated by Argosy, Waterways Cruises and various other commercial tour companies.
Proposed Flight Plan:
Laughs Comedy Spot in Totem Lake had their last show this past weekend and have now closed their Kirkland location for good. Also not-so-funny, is the news that along with Big 5's closing in Kirkland, now all Sports Authorities will be closing. Where is an eastside mom supposed to go for cleats and birthday gifts now?
Since you can't laugh at Laugh's anymore, I'll let you laugh at me and my series of mishaps. I'm a team player like that.
A few weeks ago I'm in a hurry and my car is a filth bucket, so I jump in line at the Mobil (formerly Shell) Station on 85th across from Safeway. Last I checked you don't need an advanced degree to navigate onto the tracks of a carwash that has employees telling you where to drive. But I could be wrong. By the time my car reaches the end of the wash where more humans are drying my shiny ride, one of my tires is completely flat. They are pointing and chattering back and forth. The sidewall of my tire is gashed. Roadside took two hours so this is already not my favorite day. At least Mobil agreed to pay the replacement cost for my tire. Good news, right? Not so fast. Because you can't just buy ONE new tire on an all-wheel drive car. Hello four new tires! Discount Tires appears to have the best price/availability until......the wrong size comes in. So now my friends I are laughing at the not-so-sexy (or safe?) spare tire I'd been driving around on for a week. I prefer to call it the donut since I never have the joy of eating a donut I can at least drive on one. When the new tires finally come in and get installed on my car, I ask them to load up my couple of old ones that still had plenty of tread on them into my trunk. I can re-cupe some of my money and post them on Craigslist, right? NO. They mistakenly sent them out on a truck with the trash tires. So they gave me a little bit of money for them but not nearly what they were worth. That was an awesome week- at least I'm healthy, right? Not exactly, but I'll leave my concussion story for another post.
Thanks for listening to that rant. It felt good to get it out. So the moral of the story is that you may want to think twice before pulling in for a 'quick' carwash. Maybe grab the hose during one of these record-breaking hot days!
I'm not usually a 'cut and paster', but today I am. Helloooo holiday weekend. These are in chronological order, and may be refreshing without my snarky comments woven in..
Kirkland Wednesday Market Returns to Marina Park: 6/1
The Kirkland Wednesday Market is continuing its 15 year tradition by bringing over 50 vendors to downtown Kirkland starting June 1 and running through September 28th from 2pm to 7pm. This year promises to be better than ever with the addition of more food vendors, local wineries and entertainment. Although the focus is still on local farmers and locally produced items that feature Washington sourced and crafted food and artisanal goods, there will more varied vendors than ever before.
With new market managers, Rochelle Haberl and Storey Hahn, there are many new features to the market this year. Sponsors such as MyICON, the naming sponsor, have provided funding to allow additional program support such as the POP program. POP is the Power of Produce, an educational program for youth to learn about healthy options for food choices at farmer's markets.
Opening day has two featured bands: KiMS Jazz Band and Marilyn and the G-Strings. There will also be reusable shopping bag giveaways and more surprises. Visitors are encouraged to walk, carpool, bus, boat or use the public parking lot at the Library to access the market since parking is often full at the marina. After 5pm the City Hall lot is also available. Join us this summer because dinner on Wednesday is FRESH in Kirkland.
firstname.lastname@example.com, 425-298-6437, Rochelle Nelson and Storey Hahn, market managers
Kirkland Summer Sailing Series starts : Fri 6/3
Memorial Tour: Saturday 6/4
Matt McCauley, local historian, will give a tour of the Kirkland Cemetery from 10-12:00. The graves of service men and women will still have their flags and crosses on them from the Memorial Day observance. Meet at the fountain. No charge, but donations will be accepted. You will enjoy great stories from Matt.
Trellis Restaurant's Front Porch Opening Celebration: June 9-10
Enjoy Open-Air Dining & Handcrafted Cocktails at Kirkland's Heathman Hotel
In honor of the warm weather seasonal opening of Trellis Restaurant's Front Porch (Kirkland's largest Front Porch), the restaurant is encouraging guests to celebrate sun, family, and friends on Thursday, June 9 and Friday, June 10, 2016, from 5 to 8 p.m. This extended celebration will feature live music from guitarist/composer Enrique Henao, farm inspired craft cocktails by well-known bartender Viktor Kustov and fresh seasonal bites from Chef Brian Scheehser's 18-acre Woodinville farm.
Chef Brian Scheehser will debut his current farm collection at the upcoming Trellis Front Porch party. The 2016 assemblage includes assorted lettuces and greens, edible flowers, beets, carrots, brassicas, endives, beans, favas, celery root, anise hyssop, lovage, and kohlrabi. As the current growing season progresses, Chef Brian Scheehser will bring varieties of sweet corn, squash, and an unparalleled assortment of heirloom tomatoes.
"I am very excited to share the farm's upcoming harvest with our valued guests and neighbors — this is our season," states Chef Brian Scheehser. "This time of year is so exciting, as we are able to see the rewards from the past winter's hard work getting the land ready for the next growing season."
Menu prices will vary. For reservations or information, call 425-284-5900.
The Kirkland Art Walk takes place the second Friday of every month from 5-8pm. Learn more about this ongoing event and the artists here.
National Marina Day at Carillon Point: Sat 6/11
This 21+ event on Friday, June 17, 2016, will bring you on a wine adventure of local wineries at downtown Kirkland businesses. This event will sell out, so buy your tickets now.
General Admission ticket holders' may purchase their tickets online for $25:00. The General Admission wine adventure commences at 6 pm at the Heathman Hotel, 220 Kirkland Avenue, Kirkland WA 98033. Early Bird ticket holders may purchase their tickets online for $35:00. The Early Bird Wine Walk begins at 5:00 pm from the Heathman Hotel.
Ticket holders will pick up their event map and list of each local wine being tasted at 14 downtown locations. Each ticket holder will also receive a complimentary tasting Govino glass, and 14 tasting tickets. There will be special offers on wine during the event.
For more information about this event phone: 425 822-7066 up to midday on the day of the event. We love your visits to our merchants but we don't recommend you bring non-ticket holders with you. Some of our merchants do not have the space to facilitate a huge number of people. This is a 21+ event so reserve a baby sitter. We love our puppies too but ask you keep your puppy happy at home as puppies can get frightened amongst a large group of people.
"It's a Small World": Kirkland's 4th of July Celebration
Kirkland Summerfest 8/12-13
Summerfest is full of family fun, art, food, music, activities and entertainment on the streets and waterfront of downtown Kirkland. It takes a lot of people to make this event happen. Sign up to volunteer here. Funny the "Beer Garden" shifts seem to be going first. ;-)
It's Spring: Sponsor a Flower Pot Downtown
Nuisances. New-cent-says. Isn't that a fun word to say? It kind of makes me laugh and cringe all at the same time. And also reminds me of the man in Costco this week that seemed to forever be in the same aisle as me while whistling at doggie ear decibels (which is coincidentally on the top of my pet peeve list). He'd smile at me in passing, like maybe I was enjoying his grating little tune.... but no, he was indeed....... a nuisance.
Here are a few more:
-BEING DISCONNECTED- Friends of ours that live in Rose Hill along with 55 of their neighbors had their Frontier communications out for TEN DAYS. Imagine in 2016 having no phone, internet or TV for TEN DAYS. That would feel like an eternity. Families were taking their kids to Starbucks or the library so they could do their homework and Petco was on the verge of running out of carrier pigeons for message deliveries. Frontier support =major fail. Luckily they are back online and able to go resume reading their Kirkland Blog posts. whew.
-WEEDS- major nuisance. Want to help pull some? No, not at my house (but you're welcome here too). Help remove invasive scotch broom on the Cross Kirkland Corridor on Monday 5/23 9-11am at NE 87th St (parking available along 7th Ave and NE 87th). Or there's also Saturday 5/28 9-11am between NE 87th St. and NE 95th St (pakring available behind Peter Kirk Elementary on 110th Ave NE). Feel free to whistle while you work! Bring small pruning saws, heavy duty loppers and water. Wear long pants and sleeves, sturdy shoes and gloves (these are attack weeds!). Everything you ever wanted to know about removing Scotch Broom is here. For more info contact Karen : email@example.com
-UNWANTED HAIR - Springtime is here and some of us need a little help with the bodily cleanup this season requires. Just like the weeds. Nuisance. Have no fear, Waxing the City is hosting a Ladies Mixer with appetizers and wine on June 16th from 6-9pm. Current or new clients can visit the studio and meet other local ladies- you even get a goody bag for bringing a friend. Thanks also to WTC for sponsoring the Kirkland Weds Market and participating in Summerfest this year! 425-297-2000
-SOLICITORS- They love knocking on our doors when the sun comes out. I never knew I had the opportunity to change so many lives through magazines sales. Or that so many people would completely ignore our "No Solicitors" sign and make me feel uncomfortable at my own front door. I've never been called "one weird bitch" before. Our neighborhood has recently experienced a flurry of these (insert your adjective of choice) salespeople and soon they might be coming your way too. This particular company has a biz license through the City of Kirkland to engage in door to door sales thru 6/30/16. Don't get bullied by solicitors- call 911 if they won't take no for an answer or are disrespectful to you in any way. I sat with the city this week to discuss this issue, and we have some ideas of how to make some of the solicitor info more readily available to the public (when they are coming, who they are) and ways to help keep them in check/accountable for their behavior at our doorstep. Stay tuned.
Feel free to air your nuisances in the comments.
I popped in this week for a quick sneak peek! Frogs Legs Culinary Academy for Kids (and adults!) is opening on Market St. this Sat 5/14. No words needed, I already told you how much I love this place. Just excitement through photos. Can you feel it?
<---Laura Vida, owner, always smiling and even matches her appliances
Daniel Miller has teamed up with Stage 7 Pianos to open his own instructional music school in Totem Lake called Rockory Music School. It is tucked discreetly behind Dania at 11831 124th Ave NE. Daniel is a local guy who attended Sandburg Elementary, Finn Hill and UW (and then Berklee College of Music),and has since traveled the world making music. He performs in 3 bands and has been teaching locally for the past five years and amassed a loyal following. So hurry to book your spot! Daniel teaches ages 5 through adult in the following instruments: guitar, bass, drums, violin, piano and ukelele. This gives you the flexibility to change or choose multiple instruments. Private lessons are $35 for 30 minutes and he is open Mon-Sat.
<--Daniel with his "Ngoni." I made him do a 'dreads up' and 'dreads down' shot. Which do you prefer?
Students are always exposed to different musical styles and have an opportunity for group playing. There are also summer camps for 9-15 year olds M-F 12-5pm. All levels are welcome and each week is a different style. Kids practice songs in the beginning of the week and then they perform outdoors in Kirkland at the end of the week (complete with tip jar). He also offers recording classes. When I asked Riley (13) why she likes taking violin with Daniel, she said "He's fun. He's not always so serious and he makes sure that I like the songs. And his dreadlocks are cool." So there you have it. Daniel's passion is "providing access to music and encouraging participation for those who haven't ever experienced it." And not that this should be a selling point, but it is noteworthy that there are a couple of wineries a few doors down where you could theoretically burn a half hour while your kid is in a lesson. Not that I would ever do that. Just in case you would. email@example.com 206-992-0999
All a mom really wants for Mother's Day is some quality time with her children, right? Well....sort of....she also wants to be treated like the Queen that she is. Give your mom the gift of your time, attention and creative inspiration this year by taking her to the (FREE!) 13th Annual Kirkland Artist Studio Tour . It's May 7th and 8th from 10-6pm, and there's a May 6th Friday night preview party from 5-9pm. This is a self-guided tour through various Kirkland neighborhoods where you can capture a glimpse of the where these artists make their magic happen. Be prepared for a great lineup of local artists- far too many to visit in one day! Much of what you see will also be fore sale, whether it's jewelry, glass art, paintings, photography, garden art, sculpture, furniture, or fiber arts. So you'll have the option of surprising mom with a unique gift as well. Be spontaneous, and kind and listen ...she'll be impressed. It's just confirmation that she raised you well.
Haute Dog Girl on Central Way is gone gone gone. Sadly, I have never wandered in there for a hot dog so I will need you to fill me in on what I might have been missing. This did spark me to do a little hot dog research though. Did you know that the current hot dog eating male champion is Matt Stonie at 62 hot dogs. Does that include the bun? Argh. My mid-rift gets swollen just thinking about this lethal salt bomb/bread combo. Here's the most disheartening piece...the second place winner came in at 60 dogs. Really??!! TW0 dogs short? That's a painful (literally) second. If you could eat 60, you couldn't squeeze a little room for a couple more weinies to take the prize? In more comforting news, the first place woman ate 38 hot dogs. Cause she's a lady.
Sorry, I got off track. Haute Dog Girl in Kirkland. Yep. Closed. The new sign says that "Kobie Cafe" is coming soon but Google is coming up empty for me. What do you know? And how many hot dogs can you eat? If you had to...of course...
Don't forget to send in your ballot by Tuesday 4/26. Every vote counts! My kid is one of those in an overcrowded portable at Peter Kirk that is 90 degrees inside in September. Some great learning happens in there but I'm pretty sure I could sneeze and blow a wall over. So now you know how I am voting. Use your noodle so these kids can use theirs (without sitting on top of each other).
And in other noodle news...this sign went up today for Sampan Noodle, Homemade Organic Ramen Noodle Soup, 110 Central Way in Wyraqocha's old space.
This has nothing to do with noodles at all: Kirkland American Little League wants you to save the date and help them celebrate their 65th anniversary on 4/30 at Everest Fields from 11-4. Everyone is welcome to join in the party! Think carnival style-- tricycle races, dunk tanks, free hot dogs, obstacle course, face painting.
It is such a cool phenomenon when Kirkland gets a few bluebird sunny, warm days in April. People are suddenly tan and smiling and friendly. Windows open and convertible tops come down. Flip flops and lollipops. What did we do to deserve this? A post spring break gift from the weather gods, perhaps, but us locals know that historically, it won't last long and so we'd better seize the moment.
Here are some of my 'sunny days in Kirkland' observations. Feel free to add your own:
-I let my kids eat popsicles BEFORE dinner.
-At least a truckload of bikini-clad high school aged kids were at Houghton Beach Park on a sunny weekday at noon. Do they let school out early for sunshine here? Fun times!
-Less fun..at this same park, someone walking their dog allowed it to walk about 12 inches into the lake and take a poop. Toddlers playing in water 10 ft away. I'm still troubled by this.
-Places of employment seem mysteriously sparse. Long lunches allowed.
-Crosswalk flags- please use them! So many pedestrians and distracted drivers through downtown coupled with the glare of that glowing ball of light in the sky- recipe for disaster.
- I turn up the music and open all of my windows and my sunroof in my car. Kids all CRACK UP. Apparently this doesn't happen often and the wind is quite hilarious? - Everyone is posting a screenshot of their weather app to Facebook so friends all over the world can notice that it doesn't actually rain here ALL the time. -I wear my crazy pants. Crazy times call for crazy pants.
- Why not cut all your hair off!? Feels like summer. Plenty of time to regret this decision later but for now it's easy breeeeezy. I dare you to do it too!
-The chilled chardonnay bottle in the fridge knows how to say my name at 5pm. Who taught it that? Brilliant trick! I think it called me "Yanis" like Siri does but I know what it meant.
-I feel like spring cleaning. And if you also feel like cleaning- don't forget there's a "Kirkland Clean Sweep" event coming up on 4/30 from 9am-1pm. They still need lots more volunteers so bring your tools and gloves and able body and in exchange the Kirkland Downtown Association will feed you coffee and donuts. Meet up is Hallmark Realty on the corner of Lake and Kirkland Ave. Sign up here.
Hurry and tell me your funny sunny time stories before the rain comes back and we're all cranky again!
This letter was cut/pasted from the Kirkland Strong Facebook page. Bob Sternoff, Kirkland resident and former Kirkland City Council member, let me know that the petition just went live yesterday and there will be a "signing kickoff" at Heritage Hall this Saturday 4/16 from 12-2.
My fellow Kirkland Residents,
Direct accountability by somebody at City Hall is needed. The City Manager is not accountable and serves at the pleasure of 4 City Council Members, The Mayor is selected by 6 other Council Members. There are no checks and balances under the current system and we have seen the results.
It is nearly impossible for anyone living in Kirkland to not be aware of the serious issues that we face. Last week's Council meeting brought back memories from years ago. What didn't work then doesn't work now. Things don't ever change if you don't want them to. Case in point were comments from Council members regarding Kirkland's relationship (or lack there of) with Sound Transit. The overwhelming solution mentioned was "change the Sound Transit governance". Memo to Council and Staff: that isn't going to happen however you should first look at your own governance structure! That is unlikely to happen without the insistence and assistance of Kirkland residents.
Since 1964 when Kirkland's population was 6500 we have been living under a Council-Manager or "weak mayor" system of government. At the time it made sense to hire a City Manager to deal with a growing City staff and have someone who could devote full time to the job. Today most residents are surprised to learn that the Mayor does not run Kirkland day to day business. Residents do elect seven City Council members but the City Council meets and elects one of their own as Mayor and one as Deputy Mayor. The Mayor assists the City Manager with the Council meeting agenda, presides over City Council meetings and performs other ceremonial duties. But all City Council members including the Mayor have equal votes on all matters brought before them. There must also be a majority vote to have any Council Member including the Mayor represent any Kirkland position on issues. This is very limiting and at times works to the detriment of Kirkland on numerous matters but it is the system we have.
The City Manager is a person selected by majority vote of the seven City Council Members. The reality is the City manager may only have the support of four of those Council members to get hired and later to retain their job. All City departments report directly to the City Manager. He and his staff make decisions that effect all residents. This includes employees to hire, fire, reprimand and evaluate. The City Manager also sets internal policies and provides staff recommendations that influence City Council deliberations and positions on issues. The City Manager's evaluation is done by the City Council during Executive Session behind closed doors without resident input. To recap: City Council is elected by residents and City Manager is only directly accountable to at most seven City Council members. For anyone to say that residents have a clearly meaningful and effective voice in those or any other decisions of Kirkland not requiring a City wide vote is not true.
It is not hard to understand why residents have been frustrated and angered by what comes out of City Hall. The City Council has seen numerous protests groups wearing different colored shirts emerge. These groups are our neighbors and friends who are passionate about issues that affect their neighborhoods and in many cases all of Kirkland. They have taken time to attended Council meetings only to walk away after their three minutes in front of the City Council with the feeling they weren't heard and their comments not appreciated. On many issues the City Council appears to have already made up their minds before hearing the comments. The residents are left with the impression that the City Council and City Staff know what is best for us and their actions demonstrate just that. In the end the residents feel there is nothing they can do and nobody they can talk to who is accountable. Worse than that the belief is there is no way to change the system to be more representative and accountable.
What is clear that if we Kirkland residents truly want a change we have few options. The most obvious is that we can elect a different City Council. We have seen that it is hard to get qualified people to run especially against long time entrenched incumbents. In the past when we have seen new people get elected to the City Council not much changes. All the promises made during election time don't happen. Even good ideas have to go though the grinder of seven Council members and an unelected staff. That is an interesting contrast to the high speed world we live in.
For anything to change you have to recognize the need to change. I noted above The City recognized ineffective Council and City Manager relationship with Sound Transit. They have at best been ineffective in that relationship. Having a Sound Transit Board Member is vitally important. Relying on other Cities to present and gather support for our needs is not in Kirkland's best interests especially when our interests collide with those whose support we seek. Not having a directly elected Mayor who speaks for Kirkland's 83,000 severely limits our opportunity to be represented on Sound Transit and other important Regional boards. I commend the Mayor for her efforts within her limited authority of one of seven Council Members. I also appreciate the efforts of the other Council Members but even collectively as we have seen that is not enough. And a City Manager doesn't carry the same weight locally or regionally as an elected Mayor since they do not directly represent the residents.
The solution is to have an elected Mayor who is accountable to more than seven people, as is done in Redmond, Issaquah and other cities smaller and larger than Kirkland. Kirkland has a population of 83,000. Only two of the seven King County cities with populations over 65,000 do not elect their Mayor.
So how do we get from here to there? Petition the City Council to change the current City of Kirkland form of governance from Council-Manager to Mayor-Council as allowed by RCW Section 35A.02.060.http://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?Cite=35A.02.060 .
What is required to move this forward are verified resident voter signatures totaling at least 10% of the 20,097 Kirkland votes cast at the November 3, 2015 election. That is a minimum 2100 registered and verified Kirkland resident voter signatures to force the Kirkland City Council to put the question to the voters on the November, 2016 ballot. For those who have wanted direct accountability here is your chance to make that happen.
If enough verified signatures are gathered to hold an election to change from the Council- Manager to Mayor-Council form of governance, assuming certification of a majority vote on the change of governance, an election for Mayor would take place 90 days after that.
The following replicates Redmond, Issaquah and most other Mayor-Council governance models and highlights what to expect :
City Council stays at seven members with one member selected as President, the strong mayor position will be non-partisan and directly elected by residents to a four year term.
The Mayor will be responsible for managing day to day operations utilizing City Administrator, proposing City Budget that requires City Council approval.
Mayor has veto power that can be overturned with minimum five of seven Council members votes.
Mayor would cause no increase in salary or benefit cost
Mayor will be directly accountable to all Kirkland residents
Mayor will represent Kirkland interests Regionally with one voice
Mayor salary and benefits will replace current City Manager's
There is a one time special election cost that needs to be determined
You should sign the petition because neither the Kirkland City Council nor the City Manager is going to suggest or facilitate a change. It is up to me and you if we want change.
For those of you who voiced opposition to the Potala Project, Plastic Grocery Bags, I405 Tolling, Cross Kirkland Corridor/Sound Transit or voted NO on Prop 1 Build the ARC this is your chance to let your voice and needs be heard loud and clear. This Petition will and is intended to promote discussion vital to Kirkland's future.
Finally, this is not a partisan issue. I assure you that there are Democrats Republicans and Libertarians who support this effort. This is a grassroots effort currently financed by the undersigned that will not solicit nor accept any funds from any political organization. This is about how to get the accountability we deserve that will benefit all of Kirkland. Its time for Kirkland to unite and to move forward as other cities in King County did many years ago.
Do your part and sign the Petition in making Kirkland Strong again. Visit our Facebook Page Kirkland Strong or contact me at: email@example.com for more information and locations you can find Petitions.
Bob Sternoff,
Kirkland Resident
Ps: Will somebody at Kirkland City Hall please fix the KGOV channel. "Don't forget to bring your bags" loop played back to back followed by 2 minutes of weather forecast 24/7 instead of notice of meetings and other valuable information is not useful!
New Police Chief Announced
Congratulations to our former Kirkland Police Dept Operations Captain, Cherie Harris, who was recently announced as our new Police Chief. It makes me smile to have a woman at the helm. Harris has 23 years of law enforcement experience and was chosen through a national selection process that included interview panels with key city and police department staff, police chiefs from neighboring cities, the City Council, and the community. As Chief, Harris will oversee the 99 sworn and 36 support personnel who serve in the Administrative, Operations, and Professional Standards divisions. Kudos to your Chief Harris, thanks for keeping us safe and organized.
Teach Your Kids to Dial 9-1-1: Kirkland Library 4/12 at 11:30am
Every day 5,000 calls are made locally to 9-1-1. Many residents, especially kids, don't know how and when to call.
King County 911 is bringing these skills to Kirkland kids with Emery the Emergency Penguin storybook tour, a new program aimed at teaching local preschoolers the how, when and where of dialing 9-1-1. This FREE tour will be making its way to 13 libraries across King County throughout the month of April, and the next stop will be at King County Library System's Kirkland Branch Tuesday, April 12th from 11:30-12. They should have me teaching this class. I call 911 all the time. Well not ALL the time, but let's just say I'm not scared to call if I see something that doesn't look right and I dial those numbers a couple times a year. They tell me they appreciate it, although they may roll their eyes when they see my number pop up on caller ID.
Here are some examples I've had.... Just witnessed a car accident. CALL. Crazy guy strung out on drugs riding his bike down the street and yelling obscenities at everyone he passes. CALL. A truck carrying open cargo is spilling all over a major roadway. CALL. Car full of teenagers without seat belts speeding down the 405 in a convertible while sitting on the top of the back seats w beer cans in hand. CALL (you're welcome parents). Neighbors house alarm going off and I can't reach them. CALL. Solicitors that give me the creeps/make me uncomfortable and don't have a permit. CALL. I also discuss with my kids what does or doesn't warrant a call- when in doubt, CALL. They can help you decide the severity of your situation and how to remedy it.
(photo credit: Kirkland Parks Foundation)
Waverly Beach Park is moving right along with the construction of the new picnic shelter and installation of a new irrigation system, dock material and landscaping. Thanks to the Kirkland Parks Foundation and many donor citizens for making this project happen! Completion is still slated for mid-June, just in time for summer and viewing those "It's a Small World" 4th of July fireworks.
The 4th of July Kirkland Parade planning team has been hard at work. "It's a Small World" has been chosen as the theme for this year's event in honor of 50 years since the installation of the Disneyland "It's a Small World" exhibit. It is also the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney's passing.
This annual event in Kirkland is one that has been cherished and is much anticipated each year. Lee Johnson Auto Family and Waste Management are big supporters, however, it really is a 'small world' and we the people of Kirkland need to raise $25-30,000 of funding to make it a world of laughter and not a world of tears this July. It's tax-deductible and personal, business or corporate sponsors can donate here or send a check to:
Celebrate Kirkland/KDA, 440 Central WAy, Kirkland, WA 98033
The Kirkland Blog is sending a check right now. Can you?
Additional info on sponsorship, send a note to Barbie Collins Young of the KDA. To learn more about the festivities of the day/fireworks or to join the oversight committee, email email@example.com .
It was announced at a recent Sound Transit Board meeting that the CKC Trail is NOT included in a mass transit plan for ST3. This is a big victory for a group of citizens that have been working diligently over the past few months to keep buses and rail off of the trail. They have collected over 2400 signatures on their online petition to date. Their other good news is that Sound Transit included projects in ST3 that the Save Our Trail group requested such as: Bus Rapid Transit on 405, 85th St Station with bus access transit lanes extending toward downtown Kirkland, Bus on shoulder for 405, parking at Kingsgate and an environmental study. The Save Our Trail group still plans to stay involved with Sound Transit and City Council to make sure this draft plan stays on course. The ST3 draft plan and list of project can be found here.
And while we are talking about different ways to get around, and you're still feeling angst over the everyday traffic backups...have you seen this Ridematch service? Curious if you've tried it..
Quick and Dirty. Just the way you like it.
Totem Lake..
Big 5 Sporting Goods- They were going to close on April 15th but just pushed back to June 15th. It's a garage sale of random objects and heavily discounted 'treasures' in there. I found super cute bathing suits for my girls for $10 each. Things are spotty at best, and there will be no new inventory coming in, but what is there is marked down 25-50% off of the sale prices. You may or may not be feeling lucky? Hours and phone details here.
Denny's Pet World- Moved! They are now located at 13123 NE 124th St across from Toyota of Kirkland. Phone/hours/map/animal fur here.
Trader Joe's- they are staying put until they move into the new space across the street perhaps next year sometime. They plan to stay continuously open. And here's some useful TJ's info-- did you know that every day they hide a little green frog in the store? (stuffed, not real. Check Denny's for real ones) Anyway.. it's brilliant because when my kids are there they quietly scamper around searching for the frog while I shop in peace. They win a little prize if they find him, which they always do because now they are clearly too old for this game but the employees don't seem to mind.
Waxing the City- Congratulations on their recent ONE year anniversary! Waxing the CIty is celebrating this milestone by doing something for others in our community by doing a clothing, supply, and hygiene drive for Youth Care thru the end of March. Youth Care is a non profit designed to aid homeless teens and young adults in Seattle. They have collection bins set up in the studio and are encouraging you to bring new or gently used clothing, school supplies or hygiene items with you for your next visit. Sounds like a good reason to pop in for a wax...helllloooo spring break! (your first service is always 50% off). Details here.
Nourishing Network- Speaking of spring break, it's that time again, when many local elementary school children that typically rely on the free or reduced meal program at school and pantry packs during the weekends won't have enough to eat over the school break. You can have a direct impact on helping some of these families by donating a box of food. Dropoffs are in 2 Kirkland locations on 3/31 and the sign up sheet and grocery list can be found here. I usually give my children the grocery list and let them do the shopping and pack the boxes. A learning opportunity indeed.
I am so HOPPY that Frog Legs Kids Culinary Academy is coming to Kirkland! I am 'jumping-off-of-my-lily-pad' excited. Imagine this: awesome fun bubbly mom that loves food and cooking shares her personality and knowledge to teach children hands-on lessons in the kitchen. Voila! Laura Vida has been doing this for the past 8 years out of her home in Seattle, and is opening Frog Legs in the 1400 sf of space at 501 Market Street that is being renovated in Kirkland and should be ready in mid April. Although not culinary-trained, her background as a food buyer, product developer for packaged food at Starbucks, starting and selling her own decorated cookie company, and consulting/teaching with Sur La Table makes me think she knows exactly what she's doing.
Laura's work name that all the kids easily remember is "Miss Frog Legs" and she also has helpers, Miss Butterfly and Miss Firefly, of course! You'll find three different age groups for classes and camps (3-8, 5-10, and 8-14) and they also offer parties (adults too!!). There is so much good energy and creativity around these programs- cute themes like "fairy garden tea party" and "Easter Eggstravaganza" or you can find weekly classes called "Flour Friends" amongst other options There are typically 12 students in a class and they range in price based on time and supplies. A 7 week class that runs an hour and a half class is approximately $250. Miss Frog Legs thinks it's important to be able to measure ingredients, roll out dough, and stir mixtures, while learning important life skills such as planning, cooperation, organization and patience. Which is great, because I think it's important that kids can do these things without making a disaster of MY kitchen! Hooray! They will also learn where food comes from, and the importance of appreciating and having a positive attitude towards food from an early age. I was thinking of asking her to move in with our family, but she has her own husband and 3 kids to juggle. Drat. So I can't decide which to do first... a kiddo class for my little or an adult class for the mamas? I heard the kids often bring home a meal for four, so that may be at the top of my list. ;-)
I'm predicting this place to be a total HIT. Love all of the fun party ideas on the party page too. So, you just need to know - Soft open in mid-April and registration is online. You can contact Miss Frog Legs (Aka Laura) 206-954-9094 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
I was rummaging through some papers the other day and stumbled upon the fact that the Kirkland Blog recently had a TEN YEAR anniversary. Isn't that kind of nuts?! It is to me. Have we known each other that long-- you and me?? I had to sit down, take a deep breath and ponder my life and collect my thoughts, but yes, it's true, it's been 10 years.
<-- Here we are in all of our 2006 glory. I know you're jealous of my bangs.
2016: Now we hide behind sunglasses. Steve, please please will you write a blog post for us? For old time's sake?
People often ask how long I've been doing this blog gig and how it started. So an anniversary seems like a good time to tell the story. Steve and I have lived in Kirkland since 1998 and we've always loved socializing, shopping and eating here. Everyone is just a special kind of AWESOME. So by 2006, we had 2 three year old's and a one year old, so we were a little frazzled perhaps, but clearly still had a love of our community and oddly enough, time to pick up this side hobby.
All of the truly cool ideas are always Steve's. Out of nowhere he asked me--"why don't we start a blog about Kirkland?" (blogging was a sort of new-ish back then) " We already do everything in Kirkland. We should just share our experiences with others," said young Steve. "We could take turns writing posts." < Insert canned laughter here.> Steve wrote about 8 posts and now you have to read my ramblings every week. What started on a whim then began to snowball. More followers, more hits/day, friends were asking what we were posting and what was new around town. And there you have it, the Kirkland Weblog was born.
A lot has happened in ten years-- real estate has gone up ( then down then up again), businesses have changed over, we annexed, parking spots have disappeared, development is surging and my laugh lines have deepened.... but the love for Kirkland and all that makes it create that feeling that warms my heart from the inside, has gone unchanged. So thanks for sticking with me, Kirklanders. I love hanging out with you.
The best anniversary gift you could give us would be spreading the word. Tell your fun friends to subscribe in the top left corner here. Speaking of fun, let's play a game....REMEMBER WHEN. I'll start...remember when....
-the Grape Choice was where the Heathman stands today? I think Larry Springer was mayor then.
-Wilde Rover opened? I think it was 2006- was brand new when this blog started.
-the Bath Bar was on Park Lane? I can almost smell it right now.
-there was a Santa Store on Kirkland Ave, and the owner would carve them in the front window
-I went to EVERY gym in Kirkland and reported back w/ a review. Great butt kicker.
-they moved Heritage Hall from east of Market to its current location at the bottom of Market St.
-Bead Hut, Calabria, River Rock, Crab Cracker, Unique Plus, Life is Good, Trenditions, MuShoe, Olive You, Ravenna, Six Tables, uBrDo...
What do you remember?????????????????????????????????????????????
<---- he says "thank you, Kirkland!"
The Kirkland Parks Foundation has successfully raised $3850 from the community to fund the purchase of a pet-friendly drinking fountain at David E. Brink Park on Lake Washington Blvd. Way to go! Expect to see the install this spring. This is the 5th successful local crowd-funding project the Kirkland Parks Foundation has worked on since its inception in April 2015. Do you have an idea for a Kirkland Parks Project? Send them in here.
Google appears to have a new search engine for kids called "Kiddle" that strives to present safe web sites that are kid-friendly and Kiddle-editor tested. They also boast big thumbnails, a large arial font and do not collect any personally identifiable information. Brilliant! But they may have taken this to the extreme. I asked one of my thirteen year olds what she would like to do an internet search on. So when we asked Kiddle for the "fastest runner" it gave us the error message above: "It looks like your query contained some bad words! Please try again." Hmmmm. Good thing I didn't ask Brady (10) or that search engine would have been really offended by some verbage of a Macklemore song he might ask for. I tried the word "flowers" and "cupcakes"- same response. I even tried "Google self-driving car crash" and it didn't like that either. Love the concept though. Hope they work the bugs out.
Kirkland Art Walk- Second Fri of each month which means March 11th. Downtown Kirkland from 5-8pm, go meander, listen to music and support the artists and make new friends. Why wouldn't you?
Don't drink too much at the Art Walk b/c the Kirkland Shamrock Run (5K) is the next day on 3/12 at 9am in downtown Kirkland. Register here ($40). Please wear a lot of ridiculous green stuff as I am easily entertained.
Rumor Alert: Will we have some Frog Legs in Kirkland soon?
Exciting: Little Brother is getting closer. Like in the next 30-60 days closer. Oh yeah.
Did you get a chance to attend Screenagers the other night? I thought it was interesting and informative with a splash of humor while being easy to relate to... and also troubling. What did we learn? Kids spend too much time on screens when their precious brains are growing which impacts things like their grades and social development. Some kids even become addicted. I mean for REAL addicted where they can't make themselves stop. There is even a rehab center in WA State. The film discussed having a contract with your kids and also making technology and its boundaries an ongoing conversation in the household. And while we are on the subject of students that require the ability to focus and give their undivided attention, it turns out they need our attention on the upcoming bond measure. Here's the deal...
You will have an opportunity to vote on an upcoming bond for Lake Washington Schools on April 26. No matter which way you vote, it is important for Kirkland residents to make their voices heard.
Lake Washington School district has grown from the 6th to the 4th largest school district in the state in the last year alone. The district has seen 7 years of growth, adding 625 students per year for the past five years. That is the equivalent of a large elementary school worth of students every year, without classroom space to support them. By September of next year the district will be using over 160 portables to educate students. Portables are not a great long term solution, in that they do not address strain on infrastructure and shared spaces such as hallways, bathrooms, and lunchrooms.
<-- is this what OUR classes will look like soon??
A citizen-based, 63-member Long Term Facility Task Force spend nearly a year analyzing the facility's short and long term needs, looking at the most cost efficient building practices, and prioritizing projects. They developed a recommendation to bring a bond to the public that if passed, would fund the most immediate, high priority overcrowding needs without raising the current tax rate. This would be achieved by retiring the current bond, using cost-effective construction design principles, and by utilizing state construction assistance. The need is critical, and without securing funding, the task force recommends additional portables, additional redistricting, and eventually year-round schools to accommodate growth.
If you would like more information, you can check out this handy FAQ . Lots of great info/specifics in here: http://vote4lwsdkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/LWCLC-FAQ.pdf
Screenagers. Do you know any? The kids of today are growing up in a digital world. I'm pretty sure when I was 13 I was still playing wiffel ball with the neighborhood kids and maybe talking for 15 mins on the mustard yellow phone in our kitchen that had a rotary dialer and a 6 foot curly cord that I could stretch out to our staircase for some privacy. Ahhhh, the good old days.
Wednesday, February 24, 2016, 7 p.m.
Kirkland Performance Center
This documentary film, Screenagers, (trailer here) investigates the impact that screen time is having on families and explores how learning, playing and socializing online affects teens' developing attention span, fragile self-esteem and moral instincts. This is a great opportunity to not only check out the renovated KPC if you haven't, but learn about what's happening with kids and their screens in our society. We've got our tickets. Here's where you get yours.
Such as...
A Northwest University student took first place at the World Universities Debating Championships in Greece. Kudos to Marlene Pierce for the big win. I promise to never get in an argument with her. Good news is now I know who to consult for advice on debating household chores with my children.
(photo credit: Rotary Club of Kirkland)
The Rotary Club of Kirkland and its Foundation recently supported the World Bicycle Relief with a $5000 donation. WBR supports citizens of developing countries gain increased mobility giving access to education, health care, employment, and basic necessities. Many recipients are young women with only their own feet for transportation. Way to think globally, Rotary of Kirkland.
(photo credit: Google)
Governor Inslee and Congresswoman DelBene were in town to celebrate Google's expansion here that doubled its size to 375,000 square feet and spans four buildings. The Kirkland campus is home to engineering teams working on high profile Google products such as Hangouts, Cloud, Chrome and Ads. The new space has features such as a human-size nest and skylight, hideaway 'cave' areas, offices, cafe and micro-kitchens, living roof deck, dog-friendly offices, cooking classes, and crepe-making room. And of course they already had fitness, massage centers and a climbing wall. I'm sending my application in right now because it just sounds fun to work there. Maybe I can make their crepes or clean the nest. Never mind that makes it sounds just like home. But it is cool that Google is innovating for the planet and also for their employees and community- thanks for leading the way!
Have you been to LBH yet? The smell of bacon will make you instantly salivate when you walk in the door. This new pub opened in December on Juanita Drive and is on its way to becoming a local favorite. Lee Dumas, an IT guy, always dreamed of owning a bar and asked his motorcycle riding buddy, Athina Mangouras to come consult for him. Yes, THE Athina- the florist, the broker, the daughter of George from George's on Kirkland Ave and previous owner of pubs and cafes. She knows how to make you feel welcome and feed you good food. Their vision is to give people a good value, great atmosphere, and be part of this community for a very long time.
Lee's Brickhouse Pub space is 3000 sf and has been completely gutted and cleverly decorated with re-purposed materials. When the concrete workers left their form boards behind, they used those to make a wall. Wood from palates is on another wall along with sentiments from retired local spots such as items from The Keg and old tables from Lucia. The charm of rustic iron and wood, helmet light fixtures, and other local finds make this feel like an HGTV remodel success story. Sit yourself at a stool and it might remind you "Cheers" where everybody knew your name (or at least Ted Danson did). The pub's mission is intended to be a comfortable place where locals will be able to enjoy sports games, live bands, trivia nights, movie nights in the family section and find great food selections from a menu that is being constantly innovated so you can experience something different with each visit. They love your feedback and employees are encouraged to get to know their customers.
Expect upper end barfood or 'urban grub' as Athina fondly calls it, created by Chef Cortland Stevens (previously at Google). The menu can be found on their Facebook Page but so far the early favorites are the 'sidewinders' ($7) which are long chunky twisted fries and the "Chicken & Waffles" which is bacon stuffed waffles, homemade chicken fried chicken, chili infused maple syrup and country gravy ($14.50). It's kind of cool that they also just started using a 700 degree stone grill that you get table-side for your 9 oz cut of kobe beef that is sourced from Select Gourmet (the butcher on Juanita Drive, love the local tie-in). There IS a kids' menu and LBH is family-friendly everyday until 8pm. Of course there is also a full bar, homemade drink specials and three rotating handles of beer. If you're feeling a bit awesome, there are shots on tap too. Hours are Mon-Fri 11am-2am, Sat-Sun 8am-2am (yes- bfast on the weekends!). Happy hour is 4-6pm Mon-Fri. No reservations, just walk on in. " Like" Lee's Brickhouse Pub Facebook page so you can stay up to date with their menu and events. 425-890-1156. Once our torturous stretch of self-imposed insanity (no alcohol/stricter paleo) is lifted in mid Feb, I'll be taking Steve in to LBH to experience some of this LBH deliciousness for ourselves.
Look around you! Do you see this SUV? This month Google is launching their self-driving car testing program in Kirkland. I love that we have this innovative company on our turf and that Kirkland gets to participate in this life-changing technology. I have so many questions. Can I take a nap en route? Will texting and 'driving' make a comeback? Carpooling my kids around could be forever changed...........
Here is the press release with all the details:
What are you doing tomorrow?? Going to a Kirkland Rooftop Beatles Concert, of course- Saturday, January 30 12:00pm- Creme Tangerine will be rockin' on the rooftop balcony of Livengood Alskog (121 3rd Ave) to give a nod to the anniversary of The Beatles' legendary last performance known as "the rooftop concert." It's free! Viewing happens from Central Way and Lake Street at the street level.
<----You need these
The Kirkland Shamrock Run is looking for volunteers for this year's race on March 12th in Marina Park. There are volunteer shifts available on Thurs 3/10, Fri 3/11 and Sat 3/12 and a $20 donation will be made in your name to the charity of your choice when you sign up to help. Win/Win. Contact Natalie (volunteer coordinator) with questions. Can't volunteer, but you're ready to run? Register here.
Steve and I enjoyed a great evening at the Vintimate event in the Heathman Hotel last night where we celebrated Chef Brian's new wine label, Piggyback Cellars. Guests had an opportunity to taste the '12 Syrah (this was our fave!), '13 Syrah, '13 Amber Roussanne and '13 Blush Syrah & Roussanne while nibbling on duck with BBQ sauce and foie gras puffs, followed by the new pastry chef's selection of chocolaty-themed treats. Did you miss the event and still want to try these fabulous wines? Don't fret-they will be on the Trellis wine list very soon or you can also purchase here.
Shoutout to Kirkland Blog contest winners Michelle, Don and Cody- your reusable bags are on their way! Thanks for reading and participating.
Quick fun updates-- I will get you posts with more details on these soon but for now, chew on this...
Lee's Brickhouse Pub- they opened in Dec. I haven't had a chance to eat there yet, but was lucky enough to spend some time with one of the owners, Athina Mangouras, recently. She has done an amazing job crafting a menu with Chef Cortland Stevens and working on the cleverly re-purposed decor of this warm and rustic flavored pub. Daughter of the late George Mangouras (George's Restaurant), she knows this business and puts a strong emphasis on her customers and the welcoming atmosphere that lets you know they are part of the community and here to stay.
Cactus- EXPANDING into the space next door. This is a fave for many of the locals so now more of us, and therefore more margaritas, will be able to fit in there. Muy bueno!
Eureka! - Mi Mexico barely got their last burrito out the back door before Eureka decided they will be opening their 17th restaurant in that space. Expect to see them opening late spring or early summer. Has anyone eaten there in U Village?
The practice phase is over. We ARE going to save the planet from plastic bags. Or at least start trying harder in Kirkland. I'm not sure if you are aware, but there is a disgusting pile of plastic in the middle of the Pacific Ocean fondly referred to as the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch." I don't want to give you an ecology lesson but there's plenty of reading if you need to get motivated.
Starting March 1, 2016 disposable plastic bags will be banned in the City of Kirkland. No more forgetting them in your trunk!! The city's plastic bag ordinance restricts retailers from offering plastic bags to consumers at the point of sale. If you don't bring your own reusable bags, then retailers are required to charge at least five cents for each large paper shopping bag. Retailers are allowed to provide plastic bags for items such as bulk and frozen foods, meat and fish, take-out foods, newspapers, and dry cleaning, and to sell pet waste and garbage bags. If you have questions, you can visit kirklandwa.gov/bringyourbag for specific information or contact the Recycling Hotline at 425-587-3812 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
<---- No complaining! Otherwise our grandchildren's polar plunges will look like this!
And just to make this plastic/garbage topic even more fun, I feel like giving away a prize! The first THREE blog readers add a comment about something else they have done to help save our planet lately, will receive a pair of these beauuutiful Earthwise reusable grocery bags, compliments of the Kirkland Weblog. Don't email me, comment below. Go!
I was doing really well with this 'eating clean and cutting out alcohol' New Year's thing. It makes you sleep great and I've learned that two people CAN eat dinner in a restaurant for $40 if you drink water. Who knew? Problem is then Trellis's profoundly brilliant Chef Brian Scheehster goes and launches his own wine label and decides to throw a party to let the public have their first tastes of his Piggyback Cellars 2012 and 2013 Amber Roussane and Syrah wines. Add some music, seasonal tastes from his 18 acre farm, and local artwork from Kim Wheaton and Mark Hussein and I am too weak to say no. If they had planned this event after our Feb 14th deadline, I'd have made it I'm sure. This will be one of our few 'scheduled cheats' because..... we are human after all. And life it too short. And this will totally be worth it.
The Vintimate event takes place on Thursday January 28th from 5-8pm in the Heathman's San Juan Ballroom. It is a 21 and over event and tickets are $35 per person in advance or $40 per person at the door. These prices also include tax, gratuity and a commemorative glass. To purchase tickets, call 425-284-5858 or email firstname.lastname@example.com. See you there?
Here is some more info from their press release about the wine and artists, for your reading pleasure...
Piggyback Cellars was established in 2011, as micro-négociant specializing in very limited production wines often known as "vins de garage" or garage wines. With each growing season, they only produce 55 cases of each varietal per vintage year. The winery is family owned and operated in Seattle. Winemaker Scheehser likes to focus on the terroir of the land as he does with his 18-acre farm and when he's cooking in the Kitchen at Trellis Restaurant. Piggyback cellars was born from the support and partnership of the Washington Wine Community. From the beginning, their Syrah and Amber Roussanne grapes have come from Yakima Valley AVA.
As a visual artist, Hussein has been expressing himself with photography and writing for over 50 years empha-sizing his commitment to recording and preserving the natural environment. Influenced by the French Impres-sionists and the great 20th century American black & white photographers, Hussein's images convey the sim-plicity of place, time, and mood. His work was selected for presentation in "World In Focus," an exhibition of photography designed to expand awareness of the world's endangered environments and cultures.
Since 1997, Wheaton has lived and painted in the Columbia Basin region of Eastern Washington with her fami-ly, dog, and horses. Shortly after arriving, Wheaton was immediately struck by the subtle, magnetic landscape. She found its scale and vastness irresistible with its endless horizons, strong shapes, subtle colors, and inter-esting textures. Wheaton wanted to distill them down to their essence without sacrificing the realism of the landscape. She was exhilarated by the challenge of taking a simple palette of primary hues to create the sub-tle, muted tones of far distant fields and rich vibrant foregrounds and finding ways using color, light, and shad-ow to communicate the wonder she felt by a landscape that often goes unseen because it is perceived as bleak and monotonous.
It's time to pick your jaw up from off of the floor after last Sunday's win and get ready to rally for this weekend! (yes that really happened, it wasn't a dream)
Kirkland will be hosting a Seahawks Rally in Marina Park this Friday January 15th. Get out there, our team needs us. Let's show 'em what we've got, Kirkland. Expect to get L-O-U-D with alumni players, Seagals, and Blue Thunder as their bus arrives at 11:30. Arrive early and be in team colors! KIRO 7 and Mayor Amy Walen will be there to raise the 12th Man Flag. GO HAWKS!!
I love this time of year when we all willingly torture ourselves. Or at least I do. After a month and a half of parties with free-flowing wine, meals and cookies that were simply undeniable, and skipping the gym in favor of a hot toddy by the fireplace....it is time to pay the piper. Jan 1st thru Feb 14th every year, Steve and I cut out alcohol and eliminate any 'cheats' we may have been slipping in to our usual 'paleo' way of eating. So basically we sleep really well and get skinny for 2 months out of the year and then celebrate our short-lived accomplishment with a big dinner and killer bottle of Cab on Valentine's Day. Hooray for us! This year, our Valentine's reservation (make 'em now, boys!!) is at the newly remodeled Cafe Juanita, which we haven't had a chance to check out recently. Stay tuned for a post on that, even though it's clear that Holly Smith reliably knocks it out of the park with her culinary creations.
Here are my early ramblings of 2016:
-Get healthy. Why is the gym empty? Where are you? Every year in the first week of January I brace myself for a jammed parking lot and limited elbow room in the free weight room. I miss your determined faces with the renewed promise of resolutions hanging on every step of the stairmaster. But, alas, it feels a bit sparse. Maybe you are all just walking around town in your activewear? Or realizing no matter how much you exercise you get it just boils down to what you are putting in that hole under your nose. If you're thinking that moving your body sounds good too- don't forget the Kirkland Shamrock Run is coming up on Sat March 12th at 9am. Register here.
-Get organized. There's a little cooler-sized pile of junk in the corner of my office. Paper, CD's, an old camera, and some other stuff I can't even remember. I call it my s*#t-pile. I'm certain it's been there at least a year, more likely two. In 2016 this thing is going DOWN and I am reclaiming my corner. For reals. Find your s*#tpile, either physically or symbolically, and fix it.
-Speak up. I spent the first 20 years of my life being shy (I know, can you believe it?). The older I get the more I realize I'm comfortable in my own skin and willing to voice and take action for things I care about and believe in,without worrying so much about what anyone else thinks. Some would say that now you can't shut me up. Anyway, I love when Kirklanders stand up for what they believe and know they can make an impact....and there's a hearty group with some passion called "Save Our Trail" that is working to keep transit buses off of the Cross Kirkland Corridor. Every voice counts, write a letter/ join in, options are still being evaluated.
-Smile. My kids told me they were staring at me (who has time for that?) the other day for a five minutes while I was conversing with friends and I didn't smile once. Hmph. Newcomers to Seattle always say people here aren't so friendly. Maybe we just need to smile more? I'm going to try. Smiles and hello's for everyone in 2016.
-Be thankful. We always should, and we know we are, but sometimes we forget to say it out loud. Thank you, Kirkland Blog readers, for listening to my point of view and for giving me tips and comments and laughter along the way . It also seems like a nice time to thank my advertisers for their support and appreciation. You guys are the best: Andy Allred, Columbia Athletic Club, Dana Adams, Eyecandy, Ambrosia Medspa, and Seattle Suntan.
And lastly, if you are looking for a resolution that you can most likely keep, I'd suggest this one: "I will not wear sleepwear in public this year." Sounds simple? Apparently not. It's quite often I see Kirkland's youth wearing their Ugg slippers out and about as if they are shoes. I've grown accustomed to this strange phenomenon, but it seems to have morphed to include pajama pants now. Are curlers and robes next? Are we pushing the boundaries of Seattle grunge? Just say NO to daytime sleepwear.


text:
REF: 12.10, 64bit, Gnome or Unity front-end.
jack server is not running or cannot be started..
D-BUS: JACK server could not be started. Sorry.
Please see below.
Ardour seemed to run correctly under 12.04 64bit.
Interestingly Audacity will not run correctly under 12.10/Gnome but is ok under 12.10/Unity..
Thanks in advance

subset: commoncrawl


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Outside of Lea Michele and Dianna Agron, I honestly couldn't tell you who the hell's on Glee. But thanks to having her naked pictures conveniently "leaked" online complete with full facial shots so you know it's her, I now know Heather Morris is also on Glee. We've truly reached a renaissance in celebrity publicity.
Here's Glee's Heather Morris posing for Tyler Shields which a lot of people are claiming promotes domestic violence instead of the more sensible route of just saying, "Wow, this is shitty art." E! News reports:
"In no way were we promoting domestic violence. We wanted to do a bruised-up Barbie shoot and that's…


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More in Travel
Travel gear: Leightning L0F EarmuffsIf you feel tormented by ambient airplane noise or your spouse's snoring in a hotel room, pity the target shooter with a rifle cocked at ear level.
Vacationing on Janes Island, the crowds of Chesapeake Bay are for the birdsI didn't mind sharing a strand of beach with the masses. But when I read that Janes Island State Park on Maryland's Chesapeake Bay has more than six miles of secluded beach accessible only by boat, I had to go.
An off-season and off kilter visit to France's Loire ValleyFive hundred years ago this fall, Leonardo da Vinci arrived in Amboise, a small town on France's Loire River, bringing with him his three most famous paintings – "Mona Lisa," "Saint John the Baptist" and "The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne."
Geo Quiz: Tierra del Fuego, Haiti, Ganges PlainTest your geography knowledge.


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The universal racial slur.
Chris was acting like just a boopa yesterday, it made me sick!
by SklovaFlave March 16, 2009
Trending Now
Top Definition
a term of endearment for your significant other
You're my boopa
by Boggs January 21, 2004
When a fat woman's breast rest upon the top of her F.U.P.A when sitting.
Dude #1: Dude, did Ms. Krite get surgery or something? It looked like she had some wrap or something under her shirt?
Dude #2: No dude, it was just her boopa protruding from her shirt.
Dude #2: No dude, it was just her boopa protruding from her shirt.
by Dellie. January 13, 2011
Dat chick said u ha baby daddi???? Dont even worry bout it mayne hse juss a boopa.
by SmartiPants November 19, 2007


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"The pearl of the Black Sea" Top 5 Page for this destination Odessa by fipsi
Odessa Travel Guide: 513 reviews and 1,324 photos
The Russian Empress Katherine II the Great founded Odessa in 1794 which means it is quite a young city. It is named after the ancient Greek colony Odessos erroneously believed to had been once situated on the site of the outskirts of modern Odessa. The feminin ending comes from the fact, that Katherine II was a woman.
As nearly all houses date back to the 19th century, you find them all in unique "classicistical" style. The communists let them dilapidate but didn't destroy them. You see right at the moment dozens of houses beeing renovated, so that I have to come back in 5 to 10 years.
As a fan of music-theaters I wanted to visit the famous and incredibly beautiful Opera House, but they renovated it, too :-(
Nevertheless Odessa is worth a visit, but be prepaired not to find Western-orientated service. Waiters often give you the feeling that you disturb them by entering the restaurants, and in the museums you will miss English titles....
On the left you see a typical house in the city-center waiting for renovation.
In front of the house the monument of Marshal Malinowskij can be seen, who fought against Germany in World War II.
As already mentioned above, many buildings are beeing renovated now.
- Pros:Historic city center, hardly any Western tourists
- Cons:no English titles in museums & brusk service
Reviews (16)
If you have the time you can take a gipsy taxi to visit the Akkerman fortress in Bilhorod-Dnistrovs'kyy. more travel advice
Watch out for missing canal grids in Odessa. Especially at night they can be dangerous tourist traps ;-) Cry out... more travel advice
The former palace of prince Gagarin now houses the Literary Museum. The rooms are beautiful (especially the Golden... more travel advice
Right next to the Opera House there is the Naval Museum. It mainly shows photos and models of ships. Don't expect... more travel advice
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Comments (10)
Hello, Stephan! Thank you for your photos of Odessa. Especially I liked the photo "Akkerman fortress".
Hello, Stephan! You've had a nice trip and have a good knowledge of the city... Good for you!
It appears to be a city worthy of a visit, especially in the summer! I liked your photos and tips. ;) I gather the water for swimming is pretty clean, right? Thanks, Joseph from Australia.
an interesting page bringing back great memories ! ..it is a pity our cruiseship was always only for a few hours in Odessa.....
Very informative Odessa pages. I was there in 2004 and loved it, especially the catacombs.
Amazed by your Odessa page: so comprehensive descriptions and excellent photos/reviews! Getting inspired :) to continue building Kyiv page :) Best wishes to U!
Very nice pics of the bulidings and nice tips.
It's interesting to see, you've been to Odessa and Ukraine. Was it a tourist trip? The pictures of Odessa buildings are very nice
Thanks for educating me about Odessa. I've heard of it but never realized just how beautiful it is. The pic you have showing the historic city center at night (re: Nightlife tips) reminds me alot of Paris!
wow didn't know odessa is such a beautiful town!
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I know I don't update like, ever, so I don't even know how many of you know I'm living in Japan right now. But I hope no one was worried, and I just wanted to let you all know that everything is fine here-- I'm quite a ways south, much closer to Osaka than Tokyo. I do live in a fishing village right on the coast, though, and we had a tsunami warning and a 1.4m wave, but it didn't even come over any of the barriers.
Continue to pray for all of the victims, of course, and all of the people who haven't heard from their loved ones.
Love and miss you guys! Maybe I'll get back to updating regularly soon.
- Listening to: Lions! (Lights)
- Reading: Android Karenina
- Watching: Warehouse 13
- Drinking: Mtn Dew
Just so you know... by agent-indigoWatch
©2011-2016 agent-indigo
I'm glad you're save! Bless you!
Thank goodness.
Im still having difficulty contacting my family over in Japan.
But Im still trying.
Im still having difficulty contacting my family over in Japan.
But Im still trying.
I am glad you are safe and my prayers go out for everyone in japan.
im glad you're safe 8D
I was wondering about you! Good thing you are safe. : )


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Quick - what's yellow, green and black, runs like the wind, and walks like a duck? And no, it's not the University of Oregon football team. The Lange XC 120 Ski Boots have all those qualities in spades, combining the performance of a mono-injected Polyether shell with Lange s bomber Power V-Lock hike-ski mode for those uphill bootpacks and skinning sessions. The stiffest boot in the XC lineup, the XC 120's 102 mm last is well suited to riders with wide and higher volume feet.
Last: 102 mm Comfort Built for wider and higher volume feet, this new wider Lange last brings relief in a hurry and minimizes boot fitting needs.
Control Fit Technology The process of shell engineering using the data derived from scanning thousands of feet allows Lange to deliver the most precise fit to the most feet in the business.
Flex: 120 Stiff and ultra-responsive for aggressive skiers.
Mono-Injection Mono-injection delivers the smoothest flex pattern for ultimate response and feedback, has a more consistent flex and performance in varying temperatures, and is easy-to-customize for precise, high-performance fit and comfort.
Lightweight Control Fit 3M™ Thinsulate™ insulated with lace-up option
Power Wrap Tongue
Shell Polyether
Cuff Polyolefin HP
Canting + / - 1˚
Forward Lean 12˚, 14˚ with spoiler installed
Power V-Lock Hike-Ski Mode An easy-to-access pull tab switches from hike to ski mode, combining excellent range of motion for hiking and powerful downhill performance.
2 XL Aluminum lower buckles
2 x 6 Teeth x 3 Position Upper Buckles
50 mm Power Strap
Ultra Grip Sole and PU Arch Sticky polyurethane sole and arch for maximum traction on any surface
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®by PowerReviews
Reviewed by 1 customer
Comments about Lange XC 120 Ski Boots 2016:
I'm 6'4, advanced skier and have a wider foot...Found the boot (30.5)to fit quiet well. Loved the comfort and snug fit holding my ankle back while keeping my heel in the pocket. Adequate space for toe movement and feet were warm/dry in some chilly conditions. Hike mode has minimal flex, but does help slightly. Very happy with the boots overall!


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A mum killed when a firework was put through her letter box died at the hands of her son's bullies, a jury heard yesterday.
Mother-of-nine Mary Fox, 59, was overcome by smoke from the fire. Her son Raum, 17, jumped from an upstairs window.
Thirty minutes later, Owen Hewitt and Ryan Croft, both 18, and a boy of 17 were filmed in a takeaway on CCTV while they allegedly "laughed and joked" about the burning house belonging to Raum's mum in November last year.
Prosecutor Paul Dunkels, QC, said: "They put the firework through the letter box knowing she and her son were inside, intending to frighten them."
Hewitt's step-dad bought him £103 worth of fireworks because he was too young to buy them, Truro crown court heard.
Raum and Mary Fox had suffered years of bullying from youngsters at their home in Bodmin, Cornwall. He was bullied at school because he dressed differently and had acne.
Hewitt and the 17-year-old, who cannot be named, have both denied manslaughter and reckless arson.
Croft has admitted both allegations. The trial continues.


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Police searching for masked robber
The suspect, an approximately 6'2" black man wearing a dark colored jacket, blue jeans, brown shoes and a ski mask hat that partially obscured his face, displayed a black handgun as he entered Webster Bank at 15 New Haven Road shortly before noon, according to police. The man ordered bank customers and employees to the ground, police said.
Wearing white gloves, the man leaped the teller's counter and filled a cloth shopping bag with money from the teller's drawer. He hopped back over the counter and left the bank through the front door, police said. Police don't know how much money he stole.
The man ran to the rear of the bank where an accomplice picked him up on
Police do not know which way the suspect headed after making his escape.
The Seymour Police received a call from a bank customer at a drive-thru window who heard the robbery in progress through the bank's intercom speaker shortly before noon. At the same time, a bank employee also reported the robbery, police said.
The Seymour Police Department is searching for the suspect with the assistance of an agent from the New Haven Federal Bureau of Investigation and State Police Troop I in Bethany.
Police ask anyone who may have information or observed anything suspicious to contact the Seymour Police Department at 203-881-7601. All information will be kept confidential.
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