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Three BAWM sites will be featuring TV-Tommyvision’s work tonight
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Show Title: A Feminist Eclat
Show Duration: March 1...
If you live in Belltown, chances are you see the Space Needle every time you walk outside, as it is literally in our backyard, but have you ever actually been to the top?
I often hear from local Satellites that the Space Needle is lame, too touristy or too expensive. While, yes, it is quite pricey to reach the top ($17/ per adult!) for a view that is not much higher than some of our condo rooftops it is still a wonderfully novel piece of Seattle. In fact, when have you seen a post card of the Seattle skyline that does not include the Needle?
For me, it is a bit different. I still get giddy when I see the Space Needle. I often take a picture when I am near it, or far from it. For me, it serves as a reminder of how I was able to move here, as I had wanted to for so long, and reminds me I am home. Plus, if you ever have been to the top, you probably know it is one of the best places in Seattle to watch the sunset over the Olympic mountains! Imagine how impressed your date will be when you bring him/her to the top of the Needle for a drink and sunset?
Now you can forget the high prices and take advantage of the Space Needles discounted annual pass! Today is the last day where you can buy an annual pass for just $29.99 (regularly $59.99.) That is less than the price of two tickets!
Here is what it includes, straight from the Space Needles website:...
At the top of my list for this Friday's Belltown Artwalk is Roq La Rue's Lush Life 2. Also be sure to swing by Mark's Vintage shop right next door to Roq La Rue. He serves up an awesome spread that's not to be missed.
New works by Joe Sorren, Chris Berens, Marion Peck, Kris Kuksi, Travis Louie, Brian Despain, John Brophy, Martin Wittfooth, Ryan Heshka, Michael Brown, Charlie Immer, Mandy Greer, Gail Potocki, Laurie Hogin, Boomer, Madeline Von Foerster, Ryan Heshka, Andrew Arconti, and more TBA.
Opening Night Friday, March 12
Show runs to May 07, 2010
Our friends at PubliCola did the heavy lifting by attending last evening's public forum debating Tim Burgess's proposal to crack down on aggressive panhandling.
During a public forum at Seattle University last night, proponents and opponents of City Council member Tim Burgess’ proposal to crack down on aggressive panhandling made the case for and against the measure...
...Jon Scholes, policy director at the Downtown Seattle Association, and Burgess argued that the legislation is needed to make downtown feel safe again for residents and visitors. “Our members and residents have had encounters with people who will follow them, people who will get in their face … people who are soliciting for organizations as well as people who are soliciting for their own benefit. So it’s a wide area of concern,” Scholes said.
...Tim Harris, executive director of the homeless newspaper Real Change, argued that the people Scholes and Burgess wanted to protect were primarily rich condo owners. “These [panhandlers] are people who are interfering visibly with our cathedral of consumption downtown,” Harris said.
My view on the legislation is that it's legislation. What, huh? Legislation is visibly ineffective (as all Belltowner know) to curb crime on its own. Dealing drugs, taking dumps on sidewalks, and public drunkenness are already crimes. What Belltown needs is an increased enforcement of existing legislation.
However, I believe some trust of an elected official is actually warranted in this case. Tim Burgess is a former Police Officer. He knows way more than I do about what is tying the hands of police with regards to enforcement. If this is another quiver in an officer's arsenal of existing laws that they feel is required, then I'm all for it.
As for Tim Harris, way to go out on a limb and stereotype an entire community. Yeah, we're all rich condo owners who wish we had a human sized hamster ball to hide in while we walk down the street. Give me a break Tim! Don't patronize the folks who are walking these streets on a daily basis. Most of us support Real Change. That's why they're there. Totally ignoring the issue of aggressive panhandling and intimidation would be an exercise in ignorance.
Belltown recently welcomed Ventana to the neighborhood. Personally, I was a bit under enthused and managed to walk by this restaurant for the last couple months. I couldn't put my finger on it, but there just wasn't really a compelling reason to venture inside. In fact, it always seemed like the place was near empty. Well, we decided to finally give it a shot last Friday night and were seriously blown away. We will be returning on a regular basis without doubt! Here's our top three reasons why you really ought to give Ventana in Belltown a shot;...
If you are a Seattlite, I am sure you know at least one Michigan transplant. It is no secret that the State of Michigan, and Detroit in particular, has been one of the hardest hit by our recent economic crisis. Michiganders are moving out of the state in droves to find better employment...
Coming to the Gilt Edge Society Salon, March 12th, for a month long show featuring over 40 reasonably priced pieces of TV-TommyVision’s work, meet the artist from 6pm-8pm during BAWM, Belltown Art Walk & More!
...An evening of networking and promotion for merchant neighbors in Belltown..
Neighborhood Belltown businesses are invited to display products and share ideas with fellow merchants by setting up mini-shops at Salon Ciba, located at 2301 1st Avenue. There is no cost involved. Already on tap: demonstrations of hair styles/color/trends, massage, health, beauty, private clubs, photography, clothes and more. Kevin Givens, a nationally-known motivational speaker, will be discussing the value of merchants networking....
You might have passed by this shop walking around Belltown and wondered to yourself, how in the world are they staying in business?
Councilmember addresses growing street disorder
Proposals increase police presence, tighten laws and improve services
Seattle – Councilmember Tim Burgess unveiled a package of proposals this morning to address street crime and disorder. The announcement came during a Public Safety Forum hosted by the Downtown Seattle Association at the Market Theater.
“The problems on our streets are complex and require a continuum of response,” said Councilmember Burgess. “None of these proposals by itself is the solution, but taken together they will help improve the quality of life for everyone on our streets.”
The proposals include a call for more fixed-beat police foot patrols, continued hiring of police officers to fully implement the Neighborhood Policing Plan, well-defined restrictions on aggressive solicitation, expanded scope and better coordination of street outreach services and more housing with onsite supportive social services to those in need.
“I want our downtown to be economically strong and safe for everyone. That’s important to our nearly 1,000 formerly homeless Plymouth residents living downtown....
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Bring your Seattle Cellars tasting glass and come join us this evening, Thursday, February 25, from 5 - 7pm, as we present Red Hot Deals from California! Our friends to the south have come up with some delicious value selections, including two of our current Fab Finds under $15, so tonight is the time to stop by and stock up!
- 2008 Souverain Chardonnay, Alexander Valley - This is a rich, voluptuous Chardonnay with notes of baked apples, butter, toasted almonds, oak and vanilla, Let the party begin!
- 2006 Guenoc "Culinary Reserve Select" Petite Sirah, Lake County - This is the perfect winter wine for when you want to hibernate and warm yourself from the inside out. It seduces with its smooth texture and notes of dark chocolate, rum raisin, and vanilla, then finishes with some zesty blackberry and a bit of spice.
- 2005 Aquinas Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
- 2005 Beringer "Alluvium" Bordeaux-style blend, Knights Valley
Other upcoming events:
- March 4 - Detour Imports from Argentina!
- March 18 - The Great Northwest
We look forward to seeing you!
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Ari Shapiro, one of only a dozen or so “Masters of Whisky” in the U.S., takes Ventana on a five-course taste tour of the world's best single malts paired with Chef Joseph Conrad’s New American cuisine, Thursday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. Explore such renowned brands as Dalwhinnie, Singleton, Oban, Talisker, and Lagavulin.
Ari will explain how “whisky” has become a catch-all term to encompass bourbons, ryes, Canadians, blended Scotch, as well as this evening’s focus: single malt Scotch.
In this tasting, discover how color can help determine the flavor intensity, the aroma, and finish of each whisky poured. In his selections you’ll experience the complexity of flavor and the long finish people seek out in a single malt Scotch.
Menu includes:...
This one from the SPD Blotter was just too good...
On 2/13/10, at approximately 10:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to an assault at a nightclub in the 300 block of Union St. Upon arrival the victim, a bouncer, stated that a female was harassing customers waiting outside in line.
He approached her and asked her to leave his customers alone. The female then reached up and put her arms around the victim’s neck and using a ‘Mike Tysonesque’ technique, bit the victim’s ear. The victim pushed the suspect away and the earlobe remained intact.
The suspect then fled, but was located nearby. She was arrested for assault and Minor in possession (MIP) as she exhibited clear signs of intoxication despite being 19- years- old.
The suspect was booked into King County Jail for assault and MIP. The victim declined medical assistance.
Hey, did you know that there's another Belltown out there? Looks like a swell place with a similar upswell of self made musical talent......
Last evening's Belltown Artwalk was a great time. We didn't have the time to swing through all the venues, but made sure to hit the highlights; City Hostel Seattle - JP. Farquar , Roq La Rue - Sarah Joncas, and Damaged Goods - Thanks for the margaritas Mark! Mark knows how to do an artwalk right. The shop is a must stop for all future artwalks; free beer, wine, margaritas, and munchies galore. Prediction - he'll be swamped in the coming months.
It's been a long while since we've performed our scientific appraisal of the Belltown Real Estate market. I was doing a little real estate surfing this morning and had to nearly Heimlich manuever myself after I came across the most expensive Belltown listing. Prepare yourselves; sit down, swallow your coffee, and prepare for a dose of humility.
Belltown's Most Expensive Listing: $2.395 million
Stunning, spacious, and light filled Penthouse with panoramic views of the Mountains, Water and City. Floor to ceiling windows...
Belltown's Least Expensive Condo - 179k
Spacious open bedroom unit with updated bathroom and kitchen. One of the largest floorplans of its kind. All new stainless appliances in kitchen. Tile floor in kitchen and bath. Peek-a-boo view of sound/mountains. Well cared for unit; comes with 1 parking space.
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Tonight's Belltown Artwalk looks like a great line-up of artists and new work. The complete listing of venues can be found here. Here's my top 3 picks and reasons why I'll be there tonight.
1) JP Farquar at City Hostel Seattle - Solo show from 5-9PM
2) Canadian painter Sarah Joncas and French artist Ciou at Roq La Rue - drinks and music from 6-9PM
3) Mirror Mirror on the Vain Wall - located near the front of the salon, is our version of a digital photo booth (behind a perfectly VAIN gold frame, of course) that lets you take your own picture + check it out on the spot on a touchscreen monitor. Don’t like your picture? Delete it + take a re-do if want to.
Investigators have uncovered a disturbing video-tape captured on five different security cameras underneath downtown Seattle.
It shows the graphic beating of a teenage girl in Seattle's Metro bus tunnel, while uniformed security guards simply look on.
This is a tragic story. A young woman is ruthlessly beaten while three grown security guards do nothing but look on. Why? Because their contract states that the guards are to "observe and report" problems and not get involved.
Why do we continue to employ ineffective mercenaries rather than increase the funds for REAL police officers to patrol our street and keep us safe? Belltown is contemplating the expansion of the MID. The same funds could put 10 additional Cops, with real powers, on the streets.
After the victim is punched, the attack gets worse. The suspect then kicks the girl’s face and stomps on her head six times. The guards make no attempt to get in the middle of the girls or to pull the attacker away. One guard is seen in the distance looking on. He never approaches the scene. Another guard turns his back on the assault. The third stands just inches from the girls, looking on.
And the beating isn’t over. The attacker comes back without anyone trying to restrain her and stomps on the motionless girl’s head one final time.
The attacker and her crew of 10 others - eight boys and young men, and two girls - run up the tunnel escalators.
One of them is clutching the purse he stole from the unconscious teen. Two others have stolen her cell phone and iPod.
Kim's Homemade will begin a new late night "service" offering at Cafe Lieto lovingly called Biscuit Bitch. Kim promises to be serving "food your mom would want you to eat" until 2:30 am. Who knows if your mom would be alright with you hanging out with a biscuit lady past your bedtime though. Kim's biscuits look worth a nibble and at five whole dollars, it's not going to set you back too far to give them a try.
The newly opened Key Bank had its first unsavory welcome to the neighborhood yesterday in the form of a robbery. Seattle Police are releasing few details beyond the description posted on their blotter;
On February 4th at approximately 2:27 p.m. an adult male suspect entered a bank in the 2500 block of 1st Avenue and passed a note to the teller announcing a robbery. The suspect fled the bank on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash. Responding officers saturated the area and began searching for the suspect. A short time later patrol officers located and arrested the suspect near Queen Anne Avenue North and North Harrison Street.
The 42-year-old male suspect will be booked into the King County Jail for Investigation of Robbery. This remains an active and on-going Robbery investigation.
DowntownKOMO was the first to report the story. Apparently the suspected robber boarded a Metro bus and sat down next to a KOMO photographer. Police boarded the bus shortly thereafter and calmly asked the man to exit the bus with them.
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Do you like delicious muffins? Do you like helping people truly in need? Our friends at Queen Anne View alerted us to the fact that Macrina Bakery is donating all of their cafe profits for Wednesday the 3rd (TODAY) to the Red Cross Haiti Relief Fund.
Macrina in Belltown is located at 2408 1st Avenue. They'll be open until 7PM this evening.
Thankfully, the ever astute folks at Mama's Mexican Kitchen on 2nd have understood Belltown's dire situation. We're running out of bars! The great bar shortage is upon us! Oh the horror, there's no place to get a little sip of the Devil's nectar around here!
Running to the rescue is the opening of Papa's, a new bar in the back of Mama's. If you'd like to see some pictures of the cozy spot or get a glimpse of local artist Joey Nix's latest creation, swing over and "read all about it" from Lydia Heard - one of the PI's neighborhood bloggers.This new bar offers something different for Belltown. Instead of smelling like cheap cologne after a night of socializing, you can revel in the glorious aroma of re-fried beans. Mmm, lovely.
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It's not all real esate doom and gloom here in Belltown. In fact, there's a new "start-up" headed to the fertile creative ground of Belltown. TechFlash has the scoop;
Redfin is in the business of finding people new homes. But the Seattle online real startup has some new digs of its own. The company is moving from its Pioneer Square headquarters at the Dexter Horton Building to new offices in Belltown, taking over the former Cranium space in the Market Place Tower at 2025 1st Avenue...
...Cranium vacated the sixth floor offices after Hasbro purchased the gaming company in 2008. But Cranium did leave behind some remnants from its wacky culture, including what McGarty described as some pretty intense and funky purple carpet. That will be staying, but the company has already painted some of the walls.