The Seattle Traveler

Nice weather in Seattle means picnics, barbecues, pool and beach parties, and all sorts of events where good friends and good food are destined to mingle.  But what do you do when it’s your turn to host, and you want something over-the-top without being over-budget?
Head to Big John’s PFI, a hidden landmark in Seattle food culture, where you’ll find great food products, great information, and great advice on how to make your next event one that everyone is talking about.
While Big John’s may be one of Seattle’s best kept secrets, locals in the food industry have long relied on …read more

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Details:  A photo from last weekend’s Summer Solstice parade in Fremont.

Photo credit: flickr; ©2008, Mark Atwood (used with permission)
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On a typical day, Pioneer Square is full of business people going a hundred different directions, shoppers, tourists, and, since I believe in honesty here — a few men and women who call the park benches there home.
This is a great area to explore, whether you are a visitor or resident, as the area is full of shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes, and plenty of places to just sit and relax for a bit.
Here are a six suggestions to get you started:

Pergola:  Located at the at the triangular corner of Yesler Way and First Avenue, the Pergola is an …read more

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This weekend. . .
. . . enjoy the food, drink, and entertainment of the Taste of Tacoma!  And since the weather is supposed to be warm and sunny, it will be a great way to enjoy the weekend.
The Taste of Tacoma is one giant family picnic – without the annoying relatives!  There are plenty of food choices with over 28 restaurant booths and over 20 food companies represented.  You’ll find lots of choices on the grill, as well as a broad selection of ethnic food.  With nothing prices over $6, you can get your must-have favorite in addition …read more

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Trees are an important part of saving our planet.  They absorb carbon dioxide emissions, filter air pollution, and reduce noise pollution.  They provide a habitat for birds and wildlife.  They provide shade in warm weather, and act as a buffer from winds in the bad weather.  And they make our neighborhoods look nice, too!
If your neighborhood wants to save the planet, help the environment, and beautify the neighborhood all at the same time, just plant a few trees!
The City of Seattle Tree Fund is available to help make this as easy as possible. 
Here’s how it works:

Get a minimum …read more

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Catch a movie beneath the stars starting this Saturday night, at the Fremont Outdoor Movies.
Singles, families and couple set up viewing sites, bring seating that ranges from camping equipment to couches from the living room.  Theme nights add in the twist of costumes and prizes, and some special entertainment provided by the cast of Jet City Improv. 
Seating is general admission, with the front third of the lot reserved for low back chairs.  Wacky seating is encouraged, but you will be directed behind the lower back seats.
You can bring in your own food and beverages, but alcohol is not …read more

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Some of my favorite artists are hanging around the Seattle Art Museum right now – Monet, Manet, Degas, and Cézanne (image at right:  Still Life With Statuette), among others.  These are just a few of the artists you’ll see in the special exhibit Inspiring Impressionism:  The Impressionists and the Art of the Past.
This exhibit features around 100 pieces, including paintings and works on paper, and is an exploration of the relationship of the earlier European art movements and the Impressionists.  While impressionism may seem rather old hat these days, at the time of its evolution it was seen as …read more

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Details:  The summer weather has arrived here in Seattle, and despite a few clouds in the sky, it’s warm and pleasant out.  This photo provides a little peek at Lake Washington from the Montlake area.
 
 
Photo credit: Personal collection
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Cell phone users must put down their phones starting July 1st, 2008, or face stiff traffic fines.  That’s when Washington State’s new “hands free” law goes into effect, requiring all drivers to use a head set when talking on their cell phone while driving.
Although holding a cell phone to your ear isn’t grounds for the police to pull you over for a primary stop, it will result increase any other fraction imposed to the tune of $124.
You’ve got ten days to buy a head set and figure out how to use it.  It’s the law!
 
Image credit:  Amazon
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While those of us living here in the Seattle area tend to think of this as the best place on earth — especially during this time of year – but if you’re a fan of the other Travel & Culture blogs here at b5media, you’ll know that’s there’s lots of great stuff going on all over!
Take a look at some of the tasty tidbits our bloggers have been writing about:

Filipina Soul – A yummy sounding recipe for Putong Puti (Rice Muffins).
Flyaway Cafe – Picks her 7 Family Vacation Destinations that are FUN & Educational.
Geeky Traveller – Answers …read more

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