Fire in Renton - additional photos

This evening, when I flew out of the house like a bat out of hell to go to the site of the second 4 Alarm Fire to rock our city of Renton, I was determined to get some photos and information.These are taken from the park behind Highlands Elementary School on Harrington in the Renton Highlands/Sunset Hills area this evening.

This is the Harrington Square Complex of apartments/condominiums that was just halfway through completion and said to be viewed as a great new addition to the Highlands area. Retail space was going to be available for rent on the street level.

As you can see, this was taken earlier on during the fire and the entire block on this side seems to be engulfed in flames.

So far, there seems to have been no injuries reported from the fire, but a police officer directing traffic was it by a motorist. It seems the vehicle then hit another police car and other officers wrestled the driver out of the car and to the ground. View report on this news here. Hopefully, that will be the only injuries related to this fire that need be reported.

Renton Fire Chief says no one hurt

According to Renton Fire Chief David Daniels, there are no injuries that are known of concerning the 5 Alarm Fire in the Renton Highlands/Sunset Hills area tonight. The Harrington Court apartment complex was about 50% completed when it broke out into flames this evening just a little before 8 pm.
Here is a link to the story that this posting references here.

Huge fire in Renton claims complex

At a few minutes of eight this evening the sirens began to sound and people left their homes to see a huge column of bright orange flames topped by a large plume of black smoke drift from the Sunset Hills area of Renton. The above photo is on Houser Way, near the Value Village Store and you can see that the flames are incredibly visible even from this distance. After the 5 Alarm Fire in downtown Renton only days ago, citizens are more sensitive to the sound of the fire truck and medics as they charged up the hill.

This is a Tukwila fire engine responding just minutes before eight and heading up 4th street to get at the fire through the "back door". I was not able to go onto the side of Sunset Ave to see the effect of the fire from there, but I saw a few medic vans battling traffic on the side streets even this early in the fire and knew that streets were quickly being shut off.

These photos are all taken from the park behind Highlands Elementary School and from the school's playground itself. This is when it pays to be on a bike. People had to leave their cars and walk to see what was occurring. Most were from the neighborhood at large. Everyone could see the flames and the shock of the initial fire sent a shake and shiver through homes all around. Not unlike the feeling of an earthquake shutter and the sound of a loud "pop". Folks knew something was not right.

This is at the corner of NE 9th Street and Harrington, where a very new and large apartment complex called Harrington Square was under construction. The outside balconies were just beginning to be built and new appliances were seen being delivered to outfit the interiors within the last day or so. These were as yet unoccupied residences.

Rather ironic is the fact that at this very corner, in what now houses the Pablanos Auto Repair on NE 9th, this brick building once was the fire station. It was moved to NE 12th Street sometime ago.

On this corner there was also an Espresso Stand - and all that is left of that structure is the sign that is hanging up right next to the swinging stop light that you can just make out in the above photo. (As I write this to you in North Renton the air is full of heavy smoke wafting through my open window).

These are all of the neighbors who have come through the opened gates at the Highland Elementary School and are standing in what is the baseball field which happens to be exactly at the corner where the burning fire is located. Everyone is on their phone, taking photos, taking videos. The news is spreading like the wild fire that burns in front of us through the ease of modern technology. Everyone is a mini-journalist to an audience of friends and family.

This is a fire engine from Bellevue that has come to Renton's aid. This fire IS a 4 ALARM FIRE and is much larger than the one we just went through downtown. This will have brought in far more than the 119 firemen that we had on June 11th. Already, we have fire stations included in this fire that didn't have to come to our aid the last time. You can see that the spout of fire causes a rainbow effect in the air that is not occluded by smoke. Alongside of where this engine sits are single level small apartment units that seem to be out of harms way.

In this photo, later on, you can see that the bulk of the large shooting flames have been put out and an entirely large portion of this apartment complex is completely gone.

However, just as that portion of the flames die, what I think maybe a private residence on the corner of NE 9th and Harrington suddenly bursts into flames and the roof begins to glow and then go.

From my position I could see at least 7 streams of water hitting at the fire, and it wasn't possible to battle the impeded roads and cordoned off streets to see what, if anything, was happening on the Sunset Ave. side of this complex where there is a Safeway, a Pizza Hut and a Kentucky Fried Chicken. I am guessing that there were many more fire trucks and medics surrounding this entire area on all sides. On Kirkland and NE 10th Street there is the Highlands Community Church as well - and I have no idea at this time whether that building was affected at all.

This is Elizabeth Landrum, lifetime Rentonite, neighbor and a blogger's best resource. Elizabeth felt her entire house shake tonight when the fire began, as if someone might have run into her home. She left her house in her 'jammies and large shoes to investigate. Elizabeth grew up in this neighborhood and watched the progress of Harrington Square as it grew. It was just becoming apparent that the street level was going to sport retail space, and she was looking forward to maybe seeing a bookstore go in. Thanks go out to Elizabeth for letting me bend her ear and for her wonderful information that I was able to impart to all of you.

Tully's on Rainer - Gone!

This past weekend, quietly and without much fanfare, the Tullys Coffee on Rainier closed. I was informed by my favorite mail carrier, Barbara (you all know her - and if not - here is my blog about her), that her favorite place to go and get her daily cup of joe was closing and they only informed their customers on the last day of business it seems.

I made it there on Sunday, to find, indeed, the shop completely closed with a sign instructing clients to head over to the Rainier Beach store to get their morning fix. Yeah, like that's gonna happen. I did witness two cars slowly go by as I snapped my photos, mystified by the papered over windows of what used to be their coffee hook-up.

However, the good news is that an independent coffee shop will be acquiring the space and moving in soon. The new name is Tuscany Coffee Co., and there seems to be a drive-through branch of this shop in existence already in Lakewood. Yeah! for another small, family-owned business.

In the meantime, outside of Liberty Cafe, which always has my utmost love, please try the lovely Caffe Umbria coffee that is being served so well at the Yoggi Yogurt store on S. Third Street. Soon, this coffee operation will move around the corner to the Deli that the same owners are hard at work to open in the coming month. Until then, you can have a lovely cup and indulge in the very good frozen yogurt as well.

Yoggi Frozen Yogurt 801 S. Third Street (425) 204-9991 Don't forget to get your yogurt punch card started right away!

Market Day!

Farmers Market today!

Today at 4:30 pm there will be a Chef Demo by Southport Cafe
Live Music from 5:30-6:30 pm by Tacoma Banjos

The Piazza S. Third Street/ Burnett 3pm til 7 pm

Vandals of library still at large

Those of you who read the Renton Reporter already know that the vandals who broke into the library last week as still being sought. Here is the link to that updated story.

Some of you out there seem to possibly know or think you know who the perps maybe from the comments you left on this blog. One is thought to have fled out of state. If you do know anything, but feel awkward in expressing that in this format (and it goes without saying, you should call 911) leave an anonymous comment. It will go directly to me, without being printed in the blog and we can go from there.

A moment on Tobin Street

Tapestry Saloon - stroll on in

Beer has sadly been missing from the blog for awhile here, so it was time that I ambled over to the Tapestry Saloon on S. Third Street to see what, as of late, I had been missing.

I immediately saw on old friend, besides the ever charming bartender Josh Bauer , and that was the Snoqualmie Brewery's Summer Beer. This is just such a delicious drink for the summer that I just bypassed my all time IPA favorites and started right in. Good to the last drop - no disappointment there! Josh also had a sign that he was making Blue Cheese Martinis. That sounds like a meal in itself. I think I will stick with my beer, please.

I hadn't had the pleasure of eating at the saloon for awhile as well , so I splurged. You can look at the appetizers or of course order anything off of the adjoining Cafe Lure's menu. Calico Cheesecake can be had for desert. I bypassed something small, and ordered dinner. The Prawn Tempura took my fancy and it was amazing. Remember, they also serve a mean french fry here and some other great food. This is a "must try" food stop.

Beers on Tap: Alpine Pilsner Elysian Avatar Lazy Boy Amber Snoqualmie Summer Beer Lagunitas IPA Fishtail Mudshark Porter

Tapestry Saloon
(425) 572 - 5931 Corner of Main/ S. Third Street
Tues - Sat 3pm - Closing
Sundays 9 - 3pm

Fire Sale - a one man band

The Comic Den seems to be thriving in their new locale, the Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes are back to business and the Renton Laptop is open for trade. But some people are still struggling with the fire. Here is John, previous tenant in the now burnt Harries Building. For the last 2 days he has been having his own personal fire sale. There is something new out all the time as he sorts through his personal effects and tried to make a little money and clear out what he can no longer afford to keep.

While I was there, a kind lady was buying the plant that you see above. John had stepped away for a minute to work, and she was arranging to leave him a check for the bookshelves and planter that she was taking home.

Renton is full of warmhearted, well meaning people. I see it all the time. I have heard so many stories of how people were trying to donate to those tenants that lost there home at the fire on Wells 2 weeks ago.

If you are in the neighborhood, and feel like helping out - come by and make a purchase from John. I am certain he would appreciate it.

At the local cafe

The local cafe is the place to see a slice of Renton life and indulge in cafe and conversation. Let a little of the world drift by, or in this case, come to you. Emily Duffy, fellow blogger and artist extraordinaire, was here in Renton after coming up to participate in the Fremont Fair last weekend. Fellow cafe comer, David, brought her by the local hang. More the luck for us - nice to meet ya there, Emily!

Bill Provin doesn't always say that he likes dogs - but dogs are always very fond of Bill. Here's Bill and Ginger on the cafe bench.

Ginger loves yarn, loves knitting, is a great craft lap dog. Here she is with her mommy, Shannon, happily guarding the safety of the knitting.

No, that is not a boy eating a canary - it is Perry Davis just moments after having his loose tooth finally yanked free by his Dad (mouth then stuffed with Mom's tissue to avoid any spillage of body fluids) . Proud moment of passage - ahhh, no front tooth to get in your tongue's way. We all remember what that feel like, right?

Liberty Cafe /top of South Third Street
THE place to be

Poppies

Seasonal Flowers

Why? Because I can....

Everyone says goodbye to Michael in their own way

You might not all be sad, but many people were remembering the music of the recently departed Michael Jackson in our little burg these last 2 days. Deb of Girlfriends Antiques popped around to Mary Clymer's store Happy Delusions (both on S. Third Street) to show the original "Off the Wall" album that she dug up for memories sake. Time to play some tunes and think of the good ole days, pre- Diana Ross, Neverland Michael Jackson when his music was still way hot and his dance moves beyond compare.

Whether you liked his music or not, Michael was and an amazing artist and performer. May he rest in peace.

Plant thieves among us

Actual photo I took a month ago of one of the stolen plants

The planter was taken from right under the window, in the middle of the afternoon and any other time, someone would have been at home.

My friend is heartsick over the theft of some lovely plants that she grew from both seed and little starts herself, this, the first year of gardening for her after many years of failing health. Revitalized by a major surgery, my friend has been working her green thumb everyday. She shares all of her efforts with her neighbors as well as spending hours down at the local P-Patch on N.First Street adjacent to the Renton Senior Activity Center. After consoling her, I encouraged her to call the police. This was the third call that day for this type of theft in the area. The policeman was not without humor - he suggested a booby trap that would cut off the next hand that tried to steal a plant from her.

Once more phone calls were made to neighbors and friends, the link to other articles and thefts of plant life was discovered. I am enclosing links to the articles below and the video that was taken outside the Jahn's home, who are featured in the articles, of a plant thief in action. Even sadder for that neighborhood - it seems that it is a resident in their own area!

We just want things to be pretty around here! Must we padlock the pansies? If you see anyone carrying planters down the street in a stealthy, ne'er do well manner - please call the police. Mention this to your friends and neighbors as a precaution. It was thought that maybe the plants in this instance might be being resold to gain money for other "activities". Keep your eyes open - if you cruise Craiglist, be on the watch out for people trying to make a buck off of someone else's yard labor.

Note: I have been told that about 2 weeks ago there was a feature in perhaps The Times that directly mentions Renton and plant theft. I was unable to track this down. Do any of your know?

UPDATE: Monday 6/29 The thieves were back AGAIN in the middle of the day. My friend came back early from her doctor's appt to find plants pulled to the side and readied for a speedy cruise by pick-up. Damn - she is mad and hurt. If you have had plants stolen, please leave a comment on The Picaroon.

Here in the Seattle Times June 17
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/homegarden/2009347306_planttheft17m.html?syndication=rss

On NPR:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=105724461

Another about the theft on the video below at the Jahns Residence:
http://dailyme.com/story/2009061900004382/rootless-seattle-plants-stolen-yards-parks.html
On Video:

In with the new - a glimpse of the new face at the Renton Reporter

It's amazing what you can see on the corner of S. Third St.
Here is the crew of the Renton Reporter escorting Emily Garland (second from end on right, next to Dean Radord, editor) to her farewell lunch at La Hacienda here in downtown Renton. Emily departs for the wilds of Cambodia to work with the Peace Corps on July 21st.

Emily fades into the background of Renton's reporting scene as Celeste Gracy, on the left, takes her place. Welcome to Renton Reporter's newest addition and safe travels, Emily!

Oh, pleasant progress

The lovely Louisa Building on Wells Ave. S., once the home of our city hall, is just a gorgeous building to behold. Her lovely mint green tiles and unusual shape have often made me want become a building owner. She is a grand dame of structures that deserves a little face lift. Ahhh, so nice that she is getting one.

A couple of months ago the building was purchased by David Smith, and at present, he is having the bricks repointed and new windows put in. That is why you see the great lady without her lovey green makeup on these days. But have no fear, she will be made up to look pretty for us very soon.

This is the type of progress that I love to report here in our beautiful historic downtown Renton.

Renton's Offleash Dog Park needs you!

Ready to RUFF it up this weekend? The supplies have arrived and the gig is on for the breaking of ground/setting of posts this Saturday and Sunday for Renton's Offleash Dog Park. Exciting to be getting this park started, and so soon after the fundraisers that were successfully held at Vino's at the Landing, and the Dog and Pony Grill and Alehouse.

Volunteers are needed to help fill the rooster of helpers for this weekend's work detail. You needn't have any experience, don't need to even own a pet (though leave yours at home - this is not time for play) - so if you are at all inclined, please follow the link provided here, and join in the fun. Beverages and snacks will be provided and they have a list of what you should bring at the link above.

Thanks to Debbie Englund and Kevin Poole for all they have done to make this happen, and of course, the City of Renton.

Directions? Visit the RUFF website here for that and more!

How Cupcakes and Fire Mix

Cuteness over cupcakes continues. I am a girl and therefore, I cannot help myself. The lovely Miss Rachel and Miss Crystal, cupcake mavens of the Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes, were seen delivering 2 dozen assorted frosted yummies to the Renton Fire and Emergency Dept. yesterday afternoon, and we got to take a peek.

I saw Lange, the owner of Common Ground, at the meeting which was held at the Eagles on Wednesday night by the Fire Dept. to discuss the fire that had struck on Wells Ave nearly two weeks ago. He must have overheard them say how good ( so true!) his cupcakes at the shop looked. The firemen must have wondered if their cupcakes prayers would be answered.

I am certain that the guys workout more than the average Rentonite, so it is safe to give them all of those tasty, frosted treats. In my house, I nor the cupcakes would be safe. And that is all that I feel free to divulge at this moment.

Renton after the Fire - community,recovery and gratefulness

First things first - Roy Beeler, Manager of the building that was burnt down in the Renton 5 Alarm Fire 10 days ago, stated it as soon as he could politely stand up and voice it. Rod Stewart, owner of the Country Station Antique Store in the top block of S. Third Street seconded those thoughts when it was his turn. Extreme gratitude and thanks to the Fire and Emergency Dept. of Renton for their incredible help in saving an entire block of buildings. "You saved our businesses - Thank you!"

Last night at the Eagles on Wells Ave.S., the Renton Fire and Emergency Dept. held a meeting to discuss with the community about the 5 Alarm Fire that rocked our downtown nearly 2 weeks ago. Chief Daniels was on hand to lead the talk about what was found that night, why the firemen did what they did, what efforts the city is presently taking and how they are finding ways to get the businesses that were effected back to normal. Putting out the fire is just the first of a long line of steps that take place.

The highlights, you may ask? Kent, Seattle, Tukwila, Auburn and Renton all joined forces to fight this fire - 119 firemen all told. They train together, so they all know the same rules of engagement, follow the same chain of command. Beautiful synergy, no injuries - not one. A fireman dies every three days within the US, Chief Daniels disclosed. We had everyone go home safe, including the building tenants. Wow.

The fire department did make another visit, as I reported two days ago here, to the Harries Building were they found a 5 foot high stack of comics still smouldering. Block Aid and another 1,000 gallons of water were used to treat the situation, as well as stirring the pile of an estimated 30,000 comics. Highly unlikely they will trigger again, but Roy Beeler, Manager of the prior building, will see to it that Howard Wheatly of The Comic Den recovers whatever else he might salvage from the pile and then have it removed ASAP. That was relieving news to all of the businesses located nearby. Hats off to Deb of Girlfriend's Antiques for bringing this issue to The Picarron attention.

In any emergency, we were told, there are 5 phases.

*Prevention *Preparedness * Response * Recovery * Mitigation

Renton is in different phases of recovery right now. Some businesses, like Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes, Renton Laptop Shop and The Comic Den are already back open and serving customers. A-1 Vacs & Locks is working with the city to expedite his permits, has secured a location next to Naan & Curry and will hopefully be up and running soon. The CK Nail Spa and Salon was hit hard with water damage and is still under major repair.

Our community really comes together in a crisis, reiterated Jennifer Davis Hayes of the Renton's Community & Economic Development. As Bill Flora,Deputy Chief - Fire Marshall, reminded us all, the Police Dept., Public Works Dept, Community & Economic Development all played crucial roles in expediting the safe fighting of the fire that Friday night and the recovery after the fire. PLUS our lovely Renton people - who have given of their hearts and their efforts to those afflicted by loss through this fire, every step of the way.

The good news is that the building has been purchased by Howard Ho, owner of the adjacent building housing the Common Ground and business developer. The city, Jennifer Davis Hayes stated, will be watching closely to see that things move along in a timely fashion where the building is concerned. The city had already sent the previous owner, Bob Delancey, a 30 days to demolish or redo letter. But word on the street is that Howard Ho has wanted to purchase that building for sometime and has every intention of rebuilding.

Special thanks to the Renton Fire and Emergency Department for being on hand for this meeting - Renton Fire Chief I. David Daniels, Bill Flora Deputy Chief -Fire Marshall, Mark Peterson Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, Joan Montegary Asst. to the Fire Chief, Jennifer Davis Hayes of the Community & Economic Development, Kevin Hoult of the Renton Small Business Development Center.

I love pretty

Renton Flowers Pretty

Renton Library Vandalized this morning

When James Liston, the courier for the library, arrived this morning at the Renton Public Library , there were already police on hand surveying the scene of vandalism that occurred this morning between 3 and 4 a.m. Apparently some good intentioned Rentonite had seen the broken glass on the staff door at the back of the library as it faces the parking lot and put a call in.

When Laurie Finlayson, Reference Librarian, arrived at 8 am, there were nine police vehicles in attendance, and the detectives were dusting for fingerprints on the numerous plastic tubs that had once held staff food stuffs and were now scattered everywhere. It seems that two young men broke the glass on the side door to the library, went into the Staff room and opened the fridge and began throwing and smashing jelly jars and other food everywhere. Some plastic food bins were found as far away as the playground. A computer monitor was stolen as were DVDs. As far as the staff can tell, none of the books were harmed or stolen (big sigh of relief here!) and the young men had merely minutes within the library to wreck their mayhem, as it was all caught on video feed, which has been submitted to the police for examination.

Outside held some more sad discoveries. The library has a 95 Ford Taurus that they use to haul books from one branch to another and to City Hall. This had all of the side windows punched out, the roof was stomped upon repeatedly and the front windows trashed. It isn't a new, fancy car - but it was serviceable and a necessity for conducting library business. It has been evaluated that the cost of replacing the windows would be $3,000 dollars, not to mention what other damage may yet to be found. The car isn't even worth that amount, but it ran well and only had 25,000 miles on it. Apparently a truck that was also parked in the parking lot suffered broken windows, but was no longer on site when I arrived this morning.

This morning the children's librarian, Jessica Marie, was having the kids gather for the kick off at the library of the Summer Storytime Program. Jessica, I was told by her colleagues, handled the situation with great aplomb. Luckily, all of the glass and mess were confined to the back and side of the building so the children did not have to witness their dear library "beaten up" by bullies.


This sad little apple, once a librarian's snack and now left behind at the crime scene, just tugged at my heart. The library has been coasting along these last few years without any real infusion of money, trying to keep pace with the changing needs of its readers and community and considering joining the King County Library System just so that in years to come, they would be assured of having the financial support that they would need. They really don't need this kind of trouble - you know?

So, I'm thinking -

Anyone have a car they want to donate to the Library? Must be in good running condition. Let's start there for today, shall we?

KIRO News team was at the library just an hour ago interviewing Laurie Finalyson (and asking for her photos) as well as the head librarian, Bette Anderson. They were interviewed by Chris Legeros who said that the story would be featured on the 5pm and 6pm shows tonight.
Wow, Renton on the television twice in less than a month. Is this what has to happen to have the crime scene covered here in our little town of 80,000?

Side Note : Six people were found to be living under the Renton Public Library this morning, as well as at least 10 others under neighboring bridges that span the Cedar River. The library has gone to great efforts to make access to the area underneath difficult to gain access to, but apparently not difficult enough. When speaking with Laurie Finlayson, Reference Librarian, we discussed that the actions of vandalism on the library today did not ring true with a homeless person perpetrating the crime. You would think the food would have been gathered and not thrown, if that was the case. No - this was just a pure act of property violence.

Update: 6/25 The Renton Reporter says that two suspects were taken into custody that very same morning, one found underneath the library and another under a neighboring bridge with incriminating evidence on them - but no one seems to have said if they have been booked on charges for this crime. I asked today at the library about this and will ask again.

Someone took a tumble

Someone took a tumble, sadly, down the stairs on Wells Ave. S. that lead to the walking and bike path that skirts the Cedar River this early afternoon. The firemen and paramedics that were on hand were not a liberty to reveal any details, but a Rentonite on the side of the road told me that is was a woman and that she may have broken something in her fall.

While I was there, gleaning no news from the otherwise very friendly uniformed men on the bridge, we watched in amazement as a Hawk flew down and plucked a fish from the river and flew off with it clenched within its talons. Incredible - we all smiled at one another in acknowledgment that we had shared a special moment with nature and one another.

Life is still good, tumbles and all, on the Cedar.

Let me take you to the Market - week 4

It's that time of the week yet again, folks - and the Farmers Market was looking just as good as ever. Rainier cherries from the Lyall Farm of Mattawa, Wa. are very popular and sell out fast. Every week - same story. Buy those cherries early, is my recommendation.


Roasted Sweet Corn on the Cob has been with the Market a couple of years, thank heavens, because that is a meal in itself. Just ask Elizabeth and Bella here, who were experimenting with the dozen or so toppings that come in shake bottles on the vendor's side table. Butter is only the beginning here.

Pacific Coast Bakery offers some lovely breads and these handmade fruit pies with flavors like Peach/Rhubarb and Marionberry. Local fruits are used and you can choose between a mini pie for $3.50 or an whole pie for $14. Scrumptious!

Plenty of vendors have cold drinks on hand so that when the weather gets hot, you can chill down.

QuilBay Seafood has clams and oysters straight from the beach. Kim here is holding up a 2 dozen bag of of oysters for $12. This company does 27 farmers markets throughout the area - just to help bring fresh shellfish to the neighborhood and let people take an interest in Quilcene Bay, home to the shellfish they carry. Check out their website here.


It is the obligatory photo of the flower bouquet - just one of so many combinations, that is on offer here at the Market every week - for a mere 5 dollar bill.

The Hawaiian Shave Ice stand is ever popular - note the line of people and the happy children's faces ( which will soon be colored in the hues of rainbow ice!)

The fresh produce at the market can make you want to start cooking immediately - or just want to graze from stand to stand.

Both the carrots and the shallots are from Lee's Produce, a family run business located in Redmond where they grow their produce "naturally".

Mary, a regular at the Market, is sporting her "Meet Me at the Market" T-shirt and a great bouquet of flowers. The T-shirts are on sale at the market at a stand near where the announcer, Brian Larson sits. The design is lovely, and worth every penny as proceeds go the the running of the Market.

The children always have a place to play at the market - and it is open to all youngsters until 6 pm on Market days.

This is the end view of the wheeled carts that are used to help vendors carry their products to and from their stalls. Happy painted flowers with cheery dispositions - all because they get to spend time each week at the Market.
You should too.

Next Farmers Market, Tuesday, June 30th
3 pm to 7 pm
The Piazza South Third and Burnett

Saying goodbye to Emily

I just began to know Emily, and now off she goes to Cambodia. But if the Peace Corps need her, I am just going to have to buck up and wish her Safe Travels and hope to have a new pen pal.

This week will be the last one for Emily Garland, reporter for the Renton Reporter, to be writing her local articles. Her plans are to then visit her family, currently living in Canada, and then head back to Renton to prepare for her July 21 departure date for Cambodia with 48 others.

This isn't some new idea to go abroad and teach English part-time and help develop kids programs for the nonprofit "Youth Profit" arm of the Peace Corps. It is a long process. Emily applied last summer and she was nominated for a spot just a little over a week ago. The Peace Corps will send you a special invitation, and if you are unable to take them up on the offer, there is no guarantee that a second one will be issued.

Emily had no plans to go to Cambodia. She initially told the Peace Corps that she would accept a posting anywhere and was initially told to maybe expect Azerbaijan. But Emily's recent foot surgery changed her window of availability, and she never imagined that she would be heading off to Southeast Asia.

Renton will miss Emily, and she assures me that she will be missing Renton. Emily began writing for the Renton Reporter in 2006, when there was still a King County Journal and the Reporter had yet to be purchased by Sound Publishing. As a Mass Communications major in school, she has been writing for a good many years. The change of scenery and work is going to be welcome, if not a little on the exotic and humid side.

There will be at least one person in the Peace Corps group who graduated from Emily's old Linfield College, Oregon Alma mater. But I hope that she remembers that she still has all of us here in Renton. We would love to hear her stories from afar.

Sorry, Emily - seems we still need you to keep writing for us.

Comics still burning on

This afternoon, the old Harries Building that was the site of Renton's 5 Alarm fire saw a little more action. Three firemen, completely suited up and a pair of fire engines, pumping water, paid a visit to the basement of the building that once housed The Comic Den and the A-1 Vacuum & Locks. Seems that there is a stack of smouldering comic books about 5 feet high that bursts into flames about every week, this told to me by one of the firemen, Captain Mike Proulx of the Renton Fire Department, after exiting the building on Wells Ave. S.

As you can see, the building received a little more water and attention. This view is taken from the back of the building where there is a parking area.

I had no idea that comic books could be that tenacious. There is word on the street that Bob Delancey, owner of the now burned out building, is negotiating with a buyer. It would be great to have that space rebuilt and renovated. Let's hope both parties can come to an agreement soon. I will keep you posted.

Watch this space

When one door closes, another door opens. In the very spot that the vintage and decor shop, Feathered Nest, vacated on South Third St. is now to be the home of the first independent music store in Renton. Now that's sounding good. Welcome Tyrannosaurus Records!

The signs are up and we all saw St. Charles Place owner walking Nick, of Tyrannosaurus Records, over to the building last weekend. Seems like the deal has been done and the shop will be opening come August. From what I have gleaned from word on the street - there will be vinyl (this is definitely on the rise again in popularity with indie bands these days) and CDs for sale. A place to hear new and upcoming bands and the the tinkle of music on our main drag - exhilarating.

Keep you eyes on this store front - things are changing mighty fast on our ole downtown thoroughfare. And it's lookin' good!

Tyrannosaurus Records 914 S. Third St.

Meet Marcie

Don't you sometimes wonder about our council members? Who they really are and what makes them tick? Well, I have subjected them to a list of silly, offhand questions and low and behold - I have answers. Today, Marcie Palmer is under the Picaroon scrutiny. Shall we meet the lesser known side of Marcie?


!. Name of favorite pet
Daphne, our Golden Retriever/Collie Mix

2. Breakfast food you eat all the time

Eggs and Bacon

3. Silliest human trick you are known for

Geez- Marcie left this one blank... anyone? Do you know what she's famous for?

4. Worst school moment (if you want to share)

Having to move to Issaquah a month after starting high school in Salem, OR

5. Belly button - innie or outie?

Innie

6. First date was where with the Gary?

My first date with my husband, Gary was at the original Red Robin, by the UW. Our respective college roommates wanted to introduce their new "significant other." My roommate Linda ended up marrying Gary's roommate Mike and Gary and I followed 5 months later.

7. Vacation spot you want to return to

Hawaii

8. Education regret - what do you wish you had studied, even if you would have never had a use for it

Marine Biology. (I've really enjoyed learning with the Kennydale 5th graders this year, including field trips to the Seattle Aquarium, Seahurst Beach at low, low tide (last week!) and 3-Day Camp Seymour outside Tacoma)

9. How do you like your coffee?

Black and strong!

10. Favorite food group
Protein

11. What TV show are you embarrassed to admit you like?

JP Patches (Actually, I'm proud to be a "Patches Pal") Only those that grew up in the Seattle area will understand what I am talking about.

12. What color simply looks awful on you?

Tan. I look "blah" from head to toe.

13. Worst Xmas gift you received - ever?

Can't think of anything, since every gift is given with some personal thought.

14. Worst gift you ever gave - ever ?

Blank - she must give good gifts - but then, this IS Marcie we're talking about!

15. Proudest achievement so far ?

My wonderful little family. Gary and I have been married almost 27 years and we are so blessed with two wonderful boys.

16. Silliest thing you often do (and everyone kids you about)?

Talk loud. People are always saying that they heard me before they saw me.

17. Whose your super hero?

Renton Firefighters and Police!

18. If you were a woman, who would you like to be?

Opps - trick question and Marcie was right not to answer! This was really for the boys.

19. Best household chore that you do?

Laundry, including ironing.

20. How do you get yourself out of a grumpy mood?

Watch "Sister Act" with Whoopi Goldberg. That movie makes me laugh til tears run down my face!

21. Do you still send cards for occasions via snail mail?
To parents/grandparents

22. Your favorite film?
Sound of Music

23. What season is your best?

Spring

24. Hobby you like the most?

Gardening

25. Are you funny?
You'd have to ask someone else if they think I'm funny. I love to make people laugh and to laugh with them.

26. Why do you like being a council member?

I LOVE people and it gives me an excuse to talk with everyone to find out more about them, and often, help them.


Stay Tuned - this is part three of a series I have been working on entitled "Meet the Council". Isn't this fun!?

In the Pink

Hope you're having a lovely Sunday!
(some of you will recognize this plethora of pink and know that the photos came from the b-day bash yesterday at the "Pink Palace")
Happy 50th Gabe!

Rockin' Renton - Block Party

If you weren't at S. Third and Main last night - you should have been, shame on you. It was a Rockin' Renton scene, to be sure, and the turnout was great right from the git go.

Happy Delusions "Meet the Artist" night colluded with Liberty Cafe's Grand Opening Celebration, and the outcome was more like a Block Party, and it was good.

Mary Clymer, Happy Delusions owner, has been trying to get the other businesses on both sides of her block on S. Third to commit to having such gatherings every Third Thursday of the month. Give people a destination out at night to our historic downtown corridor and add some flair to our local "scene".

Now the neighbor's of S.Third can see for themselves what a monthly Block Party would be like, maybe they will be more ready to commit. It was a success and I think would add a greatly needed dimension to out local evening options.

Co-Owners Mike Moscowitz and Johnny Uysal of the Liberty Cafe had a great set-up last night, and the crowds that showed up can bear that out. Scrumptious food from Cafe Lure and Armondos, wine, beer, coffee (a given!) plus DJ Phil Anthony manned the music and occasionally Johnny and friend Matthew played drums. There was even dancing on the pavement outside. When did that last happen in Downtown Renton, folks?

Cancer gets a Pie in the Face!

Caught this on the fly, yesterday afternoon at our downtown Rainier Safeway - that is right folks, Pie in the Face day at Safeway!
For a mere donation of $5 to the Prostate Cancer Fund, you could "cream" a dedicated Safeway employee. Felt like I was at a good ole high school carnival. Fun and gooey and definitely hilarious.

Sorry for the poor camera quality here - I had to use my phone, and in a hurry! for the pies were starting to fly.
Losing someone to Cancer is no joke - but Safeway is great for soliciting funds in such a light hearted manner. Kudos to you, Safeway and your playfully willing employees!

Renton has gone to the flowers!

We have some beautiful homes in North Renton - and some beautiful blooming flowers. Yep, that's right. Back to my old schtick of force feeding you with lovely flower photos!
No more fire stories - back to fuzzy, feel good photos. Don't be a flower hater!

Ruff will be putting you to work soon - just not this weekend

Dog Park Construction is Canceled for this weekend.

Sorry, anxious dog owners and volunteers to be the bearer of this news. Seems that the fence materials have not "materialized" yet, so the poles will not be set tomorrow and Sunday as planned. The hope is that next weekend, fingers crossed, the plan to begin construction will resume. All of this straight from Debbie Englund, RUFF Operations Committee.

However, here is the link to follow if you would like to volunteer. Join the email list and get regular updates. This is getting exciting folks - a new park, for our furry family members. What a great summer treat.

http://www.rentonoffleash.org/

Save a trip to the Dump- Clean Up!

Renton's Solid Waste Utility returns with the popular residential curbside cleanup program.

CURBSIDE LOAD ZONE -HERE'S HOW IT WORKS - Single-family households must place their items at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20th. Please have all material bagged and boxed. Furniture and other items should be grouped together. We will make one pass only along each street to load it up and haul it away.

We accept:

• Furniture, Mattresses, Box springs
• Carpet (4 ft. x 4 ft sections)
• Toys, Bikes, Skateboards
• Styrofoam packaging blocks
• Dishes, Pots, Pans, Small kitchen appliances
• Small amounts of remodeling waste Wood, Drywall, Flooring, Window frames)
• Tools, Garden equipment, Flower pots
• Scrap metal
• Large Appliances by Appointment Only 1-800-592-9995

• We DO NOT accept:

• Bags, Boxes and Branches larger than 4 ft. x 4 ft. and greater than 65 lbs
• Contractor construction waste
• Fluorescent light tubes
• TV's, Computers, Monitors or Keyboards
• Automotive body parts, Engines or Batteries
• Household garbage
• Lawnmowers
• Yard waste
• Concrete
• Tiers
• Household hazardous waste -Visit: ( www.govlink.org/hazwaste/house/disposal )

Renton's Neighbor-to-Neighbor Curbside Cleanup - HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS CLEAN SWEEP RENTON!

This is a neighbor-to-neighbor effort. If you know someone who needs help getting their unwanted items to the curb, please give them a hand for this ONE-DAY-ONLY event

When life gives you fire, you make S'MORES!

So, after the fire next door to the Cupcake Shop, things have finally started to get back to normal at Common Ground. Coffee is being served, cupcakes are being made -

Campfire Cupcakes, with S'More Frosting!

Crystal Roberts, our cupcake maven extraordinaire, says that this Marshmallow Frosting is probably the best stuff to grace the Common Ground's cupcakes to date.

Here is Rachel, the creator of the marvelous Marshmallow Frosting with one of her creations. This flavor sells out as soon as they make it - but have no fear. This is a flavor of cupcakes they intend to keep around awhile.
Because when life gives you get fire, you make S'mores!

Common Ground Cupcakes and Coffee 900 South Third St.(425) 235 - 1717
www.commongroundcupcakes.com

This is really what any good summer should be like - playful time on the banks of the river, sunny side up.

Party at Happy Delusions - Meet the Artist

Friday night - and you should have plans to be on the uppermost western corner of South Third Street. Why? Because it is a night of celebration, food, fun and meeting ARTISTS.

Happy Delusions is hosting a Meet The Artist gathering this Friday from 5 pm till 9 pm, and all of you are welcome. This should be fun, folks!

Mary Clymer, owner of Happy Delusions, has 35 vendors within her store and quite a few of them (15 in total!!) will be on hand to introduce themselves and their wares.

Look for:

Alex Sandlin of the big eyed girl painting, Susanna of Sustudio Jewelery lovely silver jewelry, Mary of Blue Mockingbird Designs cute necklaces, Linda Vidmar of the wonderful pottery, Emi of the adorable plushy toys!

Happy Delusions 924 S. 3rd St. (425)255-6078
www.happydelusions.wordpress.com

The DTR?

Here is fellow blogger, Miss Lynar, from All About Renton, sporting her DTR button with pride. What is DTR, you might ask? Well, that is the new and upcoming acronym for Downtown Renton.

Buttons are available at secret locations and only upon request. On my honor, that is what they told me to tell you.

Party on the Block - Friday night at Liberty Cafe

Friday night and South Third Street in Downtown Renton is the place to be! Liberty Cafe will be hosting their Grand Opening Celebration from 6pm - 9 pm, and all of you are invited!

If you have never been to the new little shop that graces the top of S.Third and has lent a definite "European Cafe" air to the downtown area, please do take this moment to find out what you have been missing and meet some of the town.

Joe Kennedy of Calico Cheesecake will be making some of his infamously good savory cheesecake (I could gorge myself on this heavenly party snack), possibly some Bruschetta from Armondo's, and of course beer, wine, coffee and music.

Mike Moscowitz and Johnny Uysal , owners of Liberty Cafe will be on hand to party with all of us. Don't be shy - come on by!

Liberty Cafe 926 South Third Street
(425) 235 -1400

Get your coffee and your cupcakes!

The sign is out - the doors are open. Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes is ready to serve you up some coffee and cupcakes.

When I cruised by a little while ago, the tempting smells of baked goods assaulted my delicate nose. There was Crystal Roberts, cupcake maven extraordinaire, working her magic in the cupcake kitchen. With incredible effort on the staff of the entire coffee shop and with the immense help of Mike Roberts and his crew from Venturi Clean - things are getting back to normal at Common Ground.

Lang, the owner of Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes was in a well deserved good mood when I ran into him today. He said that, though having been born in Aberdeen, WA and having moved around to different spots within our state, it wasn't until he moved to Renton and opened his store downtown that he has ever felt such a feeling of community, of being home.

You will recall that not too long after he opened his business in downtown Renton 2 years ago, a freak accident occurred where a car ran into the shop's front window one night. A complete stranger came and brought lumber to cover the open window frames and install it himself. Lang is no stranger to feeling the warmth and help of Renton during tough times.

"The more things happen here in Renton," Lang exclaimed, " the more gratified I feel for having chosen to live in Renton and to do business here". Lang recounted how children drug their parent's to the shop's door after the fire just to make sure that everything was okay. "One teenage girl wrapped her arms around my wife, Hang, when she saw her saying "Oh, good! you're alright!""

Happy times - to see people getting back to work again, and seeing businesses bounce back less than a week after that horrible 5 Alarm Fire that took downtown Renton by surprise.
SO - come by, please!

Common Ground Cupcakes and Coffee 900 South Third St.(425) 235 - 1717
www.commongroundcupcakes.com

The Comic Den is OPEN!!

They're back!!! New comics, new location and a happy, returning clientele. The Comic Den has opened their doors today to great success and a huge sigh of relief. Hard work and many laborious hours have gone into getting the store to this place and time. Now that the doors are open, the task will be to get the recovered stock back on the floor and have the shop organized said Howard Wheatly, owner. The plan is that by the week before Renton River Days in the last days of July, the shop will have a grand reopening, and be really situated once again.

Pictured above is Rich Nesbitt waiting on longtime customer Danielle NiDhighe. Both were very happy to have the chance to see one another. Rich still has a job he enjoys to come to and Danielle has an outlet to indulge in her comic reading. This makes everyone happy.

Owner, Howard Wheatly - exhausted, but good.

Please note that the phone number is not working at present at The Comic Den but will be remedied by the following Monday. Please feel free to email them at: comicden@hotmail.com

The Comic Den 822 South Third Street
(425) 235 - 1663 (as of next Monday 6/22)
Email: comicden@hotmail.com

Comic Buyers - Start your Engines!

Today is the day to buy a new comic book. The Wednesday tradition of new comic book arrivals at The Comic Den continues. When last I spoke to Howard Wheatly, the owner, the store would open at Noon Today! Fall out and support Renton!

The Comic Den 822 South Third Street
(425) 235 - 1663 Renton, WA

Let me take you to the Market - week 3

Before we begin this week at the Market, show it your support and love...

Please take a quick moment and click here to cast your vote with the American Farmerland Trust and tell them the Renton's Farmers Market is Numero Uno in your books.You will have to give them your info but you don't have to join or donate, it really is painless.Thank you.

Flowers are still lovely as ever at the Market - and still within range of anyone's pocketbook.


Today, in honor of Mexican Heritage Day, Christopher Anderson served wonderful homemade pickled carrots, onions and jalapenos - South of the Border style. Watch out for the recipe to appear in the near future on the Farmers Market website. Here is Christopher posing with the simple ingredients for the pickles that can be found at the Market - of course!


New vendor, McSweet with jars of pickled yummies - asparagus right here along with lovely olives and other veggies. Check out the Maple Valley business on his website here.


Jessies Berries had the most vibrant and large strawberries around. Strawberry Shortcake for desert anyone?


Local restaurant Bella Napoli began the Market this year selling fresh pasta and sauces. Here is owner, Ciros, lifting can tomato weights to keep in shape to serve you lunch or dinner. Bella Napoli 509 S. Third St. 425-277-8200


Bea and Ivan Nass at the Market. Bea has lived all 85 years of her life in Renton, and Ivan has since at least 1942 when the two married here. Longtime Rentonites loving a day at the Piazza.

There is always music at the Market - and sometimes a good crowd gets to dancing. Like today. Dancing spans generations.

Where would we be without our Farmers Market staff and volunteers? Here is Stefeny Anderson,Renton Farmers Market Coordinator - and her T-shirt says it all. Without the hard work put in by these dedicated people, our Piazza would most likely lay dormant and unloved. (PS thanks for the reader corrections - just a one man band trying my best)

Wonder what is good at the Market? Just look to see what the volunteers are eating. Today it was deep fried egg rolls and Berry Squares from the Little Prague bakery.

Linda Middlebrooks, Farmers Market Volunteer Manager (along with Meri England) and one of three wonderful women who began this whole concern - eating desert and enjoying every bite!

Revisiting an old friend - Burton Brothers Gourmet Handmade Icecream. Lovingly handcrafted one batch at a time in old wooden icecream buckets. Visit them here and be sure to have a cup of this amazingly cool stuff!

Brewing coffee and getting ready to open tomorrow - Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes

Yesterday afternoon, everything related to the making and displaying of cupcakes seemed to be piled up on the sidewalk in front of Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes - one of the handful of businesses that were adversely affected by the 5 Alarm Fire Renton experienced last week.

The plans are today, Hang (above) owner of our favorite cupcake hang, to brew tons of pots of coffee to instill the establishment with that lovely scent of the brew that the customers love so well. And to chase away any remnants of the smoke that recently filled the rooms of their coffee shop. Soon, it will smell the way a bakery of sweet delights should.

The hope is that tomorrow, Wednesday, they will have a soft opening and start to get cupcakes and coffee in all of our bellies once again. You can check their website, listed below, for updates!

Come out and support, Renton. They need your patronage to help overcome the losses of these last few days.

Common Ground Cupcakes and Coffee 900 South Third St.(425) 235 - 1717
www.commongroundcupcakes.com

The man you call after the fire cools down

Smoke, soot, water, mildew, mold - after a fire the size that hit downtown Renton last week, the clean-up process is daunting. It's more than just pushing a mop and wiping down the walls. It takes professional help and care - and fast. If not attended to immediately, the mold and mildew of tons of water that sluiced through your establishment trying to put the fire out will leave their damage.

Luckily Mike Roberts was on the scene even before the fire inspectors were letting the business owners in to inspect their losses. Mike was already keenly evaluating what equipment needed to be brought over, the crew he needed to gather and the first actions he had to take to help Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes, CK Nail Spa and Salon, and the Renton Laptop Computer Store start to clean up.

CK Nail Spa and Salon

Even though these three businesses were not involved in the fire or the building that now lays in ruins, the water used by the firemen to contain the spread of the flames filtered into their shops. From what Mike Roberts tried to explain to me, the firemen needed to cut a trough for the water to run through while attacking the fire. The water then came in a little bit to the Common Ground, a little more to the Computer Store, but unfortunately for the Nail Salon, most of the water then ended up there. When Chi and Kevin, the owners of the salon, first opened the door, at least 6 inches deep of water ran out. It will take a much longer time for the Nail Salon to recover and reopen.

I am mentally rubbing the belly of Buddha, in Asia meant to help the bringing of good luck, that the CK Nail Spa and Salon gets back to giving the best manicures and pedicures around real soon.

When talking to the owners of Common Ground yesterday, Papa Cupcakes (yes, that's what I call him!) says that they wouldn't even be able to think about opening by possibly tomorrow if it hadn't been for Mike Roberts and his team working from the absolute first possible moment to get their place clean and up and going. They thought he just cleaned carpets - they had no idea that he had specialized machinery, fans, you name it, to help in such drastic conditions. It also helped that Mike's wife, Crystal, works for Hang and Lang at the Cupcake Shop. He told me that she was very unhappy about the fire, and Mike firmly believes in "Happy Wife, Happy Life." And Mike has been nearly exhausting himself these past few days to make sure that Crystal, and everyone else, is feeling better after the fire.

Mike Roberts also told me that to get started with his intense work, he was going to need a huge container on site to throw out damaged pieces of building from the fire. Jennifer Davis Hayes heard him and delivered immediately - and the container's cost was footed by the City of Renton. Just another reason to acknowledge - Hey, that's what's great about Renton!

Venturi Clean 206 - 522 - 4444 17660 West Valley Highway, Tukwilla,WA
www.venturiclean.com

It's the little things that count

A spot of color, the random flower pot that greets you on a walk downtown pulsing with greenery and life - it's the little things that count. One of my friends, Ron, thinks all of my flower pictures on the blog are rather "girly". Maybe so - because a handful of us "girls" love these new additions to the face of South Third Street.

It started with a simple pot donated by Sue Moeller to a resident living above the now defunct store, Feathered Nest. The pot was really far to heavy to be moved, and it needed a loving hand to care for it. When gifted to Daniel, it just must have triggered his green thumb. He planted, he watered, he spruced things up with paint. And soon there were two pots of flowers.

On these hot days, Daniel is taking all of the local greenery along his street under his care. I saw him walking up and down the block with his water buckets, making sure all of the plants got a good drink.

I miss all of our lovely hanging baskets that used to beautify our town. Daniel's mission seems to be to bring a little of that back. And all of us girls love him for it.

A-1 Locksmith - Rebuilding a business after the fire

Here just in from Jennifer Davis Hayes Desk:

You’ve asked how else you can help. I spoke to Tom Swanson of A-1 Locksmith and he’s hoping to move into the space on S 3^rd between Naan N Curry & Mroczeck Antiques which is currently leased from Nann N Curry for storage. He would build a wall to make a small area in the front retail space to serve retail key customers. Here’s a list of things that he said he needs to rebuild:

* Wood/material to rebuild shop in new location

* Computer

* Fax

* Printer

* Phone

* Stationary, Supplies

* Labor - Contractor willing to donate carpentry & electrical skills to do work to rebuild space in new location

If you or someone you know can help, please contact Tom directly at 253-740-8872. Relocation assistance donations can still be made for A-1 Locksmith at the Downtown US Bank location. He’ll need money for basics to such things as permit and reconnect fees, as well as loss of business.

Memories - make your own wooden hydroplane!

This just in from the McLendon's store flier:
Saturday, June 20th from 10am to 12pm
Mini-Wooden Hydroplane Building Workshop
Do you remember the days of building a wooden hydroplane to pull behind your bike? In honor of every Seattleite who has this memory, Seafair is partnering with McLendon Hardware to re-energize this longstanding tradition.

Take part in McLendon Hardware Mini Hydroplane building workshop on June 20 at the McLendon Hardware Renton location (440 Rainier Ave. S, Renton, WA 98057), from 10 AM to 12 Noon, and get an extra discount on supplies and tips from our special guest instructor... Hydroplane Racing legend, Chip Hanauer!

Visit any McLendon Hardware store in the Puget Sound region with your Mini-Wooden Hydroplane building instructions and receive a discount on your supplies. The Renton McLendon Hardware (440 Rainier Ave. S, Renton, WA 98057) will also feature pre-cut wooden hydro kit materials.

That's not all...

Once you build your wooden hydro, take a picture with your boat and submit it on seafair.com by July 10 to be one of 60 kids (ages 8-18) selected to ride their bicycles in the Alaska Airlines Torchlight Parade on July 25. Ten of those lucky riders will also win a new bike from the Seafair Clowns!

Sweepstakes runs from June 17 - July 10.



Video of Miss Budweiser Unlimited '96 Driven by Chip Hanauer, second most successful Unlimited Hydroplane racer in history. Video by DanJab

Farmers Market

Well, tomorrow it is Farmers Market Day again here in Renton - yeah!

Live Food Demo: 4:30 Featuring Mexican Food in celebration of Mexican Heritage Day

Live Music: 5:30 Trio Los Latinos

Check out the very lovely website for the Market, here, where you can find recipes, updates and featured vendors.

Renton Farmers Market Tuesdays 3pm - 7pm, The Piazza
South Third Street and Burnett

When there's nothing left - Donating after the Renton Fire

Roy Beeler

5 of the 7 residents that lived in the building that caught on fire last week in Renton have moved across the street to live. Roy Beeler, the manager of both the building that was lost to flames and the one with vacancies to house the now homeless tenants of Wells Ave has been trying to organize situating everyone during this trying time. Problem is - when you have lost everything, their is a whole lot more to "moving in" than you would think.

Think "starting from scratch" and magnify that concept. That is what these people are dealing with today.

Having said that, the call out for twin mattresses for the tenants move was answered immediately by Salvation Army and as you can see in the photo below, already delivered. Red Cross provided each of the former residents with debit cards for $360 so that they could buy some necessities to help reestablish themselves and a bag full of things like toothpaste and a toothbrush. All of these gestures really help.

But, as of today - what can, Renton, still do to help? As of yesterday evening when I spoke with Roy Beeler, he said that a lot of the things that Marice Palmer listed in her letter that can be seen posted here on fellow blogger, Randy Corman's blog, had been secured. But things like sheet sets for twin beds, working TV's with converter boxes (even 13" screens would be okay - remember, the rooms are NOT that large) would be really helpful.

While I was there, talking to both Roy Beeler and peeking in on the beehive of commotion as The Comic Den moved into their new digs in 822 S. Third Street, there was a woman who stood out in her efforts on behalf of these men who lost their homes. Her name is Stephanie, and she lives just around the corner in a neighboring building from where the fire occurred. She is longtime Renton resident, friend to Roy and friend to the displaced tenants of the fire.

"It could have been me. It could've been my house that was on fire " Stephanie told me as she handed yet another bag of bedding, fans and alarm clocks to Roy Beeler. The next thing I knew, she was coming back with bags of shampoo, razors, and other sundry items to give as well. "I get paid tomorrow", Stephanie said, as she leaned her head out of her car window to talk to Roy. "Ask the guys what they need and I will talk to you tomorrow."

Stephanie thought when she saw the billows of black smoke last week that it was her home that was going to be lost. She told me she is just spending the money that she would have had to use to get her own life up and going again on the people who are now faced with that same challenge.

(No picture of dear Stephanie ? Nope - she had more important things to be doing than posing for a photo. You go girl!)

PS: Kudos to Marcie Palmer, who was donating loads of needed necessities from her home while the rest of us were toasting our dogs with beer in hand at the Barks and Brews event. Also, the woman who came down twice with her truck loaded with nice chairs and boxes of clothes. You both, of course, ROCK.

UPDATE: 6/15 1:45 pm
*McLendon's donated the last three fans that were needed - way to go, McLendons!
*St.Vincent de Paul will be giving the tenants VOUCHERS so that they can buy clothes that suit and fit them. Great Idea guys!
*The Mayor's Office has called to ask how they can be of service - Yeah Denis Law!

Contact Roy Beeler :425-227-5433 if you need further clarification.

In honor of Firemen that have already gone

Another blog that I really enjoy visiting, The Quincy Daily Photo Blog, had this posting for Sunday. I felt that in light of our recent fire downtown and our deep,heartfelt thanks to our own Fire Department and the departments in neighboring towns who lent a hand during our crisis, this would be really good to share.

The second Sunday in June is apparently a day of remembrance for Firefighters who have died. This is the Firefighter Memorial in Quincy,MA that resides in the cemetery across the street from their Police Station. Isn't it lovely?

I hope that the author of the this blog doesn't mind me sharing this lovely image with you. Considering what our downtown has recently been through - I think maybe they will understand just how grateful we are today for the help we so recently received.

After the Fire : Renton's Comic Den to reopen this Wednesday!

Even though fire and water are surely no friend to a comic book, Howard Wheatly, owner of The Comic Den, is rebounding with amazing speed and with tons of good spirits. Today, while visiting with him at site of the fire in his old shop on Wells Ave., things were being cleaned and moved and sorted by a team of friends and customers. The owner of the building at 822 S. Third Street, Bob Delancey, is also the owner of the now totaled building on Wells Ave. that was completely ruined a couple of days ago by a 5 Alarm Fire that struck. Howard is now in the process of moving into half of that store presence on South Third with the intention of opening his doors for business on this coming Wednesday at noon. That's right folks - new comic delivery on Wednesdays is back!

Howard is taking everything in stride these days. Approximately 80% of his stock was lost in the fire, but the remaining 20% was the stuff that was worth saving. In it were his gold and silver age comics. There was more to salvage than you would think - because of the plastic sleeves that covered the comic issues which lent needed protection . At this moment, the sorting process is taking place and those that can be recovered are being put into new plastic sleeves and being readied for the store's reopening in just three days.

Howard explained that at least all of his store inventory had been paid for and that most of his business is in new comics, and that is where he derives most of his revenue. Howard is looking at the cup half full these days - I mean, what else can you do? Which is why Howard struck the pose up above in the photo. Living proof that you can make lemonade from sucky situations.

While there I was amazed at the industriousness of everyone who scuttled around the wet and soot filled rooms that once was home to The Comic Den for nearly two decades.

This shot reminds me of Michelangelo's "Hand of God" - except that what we are looking at here is nothing pretty. That is where the ceiling used to be and where all the water from the firemens'
hoses rained down. Side rooms off of the main area were almost a complete write off as far as comics were concerned. Howard said that they would be lucky to scrape together 10% from the inventory in those rooms. I looked into these rooms and all I could really see was blackened and shriveled pages upon pages of books. Yuck.



The new location for The Comic Den is so close - just across the street. Handtrucks and armloads of rescued goods were being taken over as fast as they could be carried. No one seemed to stop to take a breath or take a break. Pure dedication. Determination at it's best.


Someone put this water bottle up against the temporary wire fence that surrounds the building front on Wells Ave. Change has been accumulating as people already start to pitch in and help. The biggest help, however, will be for all of the former customers and hopefully a whole generation of new ones, to come by on Wednesday for the delivery of the new comics with your greenbacks in hand. Now that would make a great start for The Comic Den Recovery Plan.



Ah, Joker - foiled again!! Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, The Comic Den will live to rule another day!

The Comic Den 822 South Third Street Renton WA
(their new digs!)

Does your dog drink beer?

Even if your dog doesn't imbibe ( I know, he Barks - you drink the Beer) - you know what he does like. He likes to run. He does not like to sit on the couch with a brewski and the remote. He likes to kick up his heels and play like the wild thing that he/she is. He wants park time - badly.

See that face there? That is the face of a dog desperately in need of some offleash time running in the grass. And starting next weekend (June 20-21) with the breaking of ground and the setting of poles in Renton's first Offleash Dog Park along the banks of the Cedar River - that is exactly what all of our soon to be ecstatic puppies are going to be getting. (Want to volunteer ? they still need help, my little peeps!)

We, the owners of small furry friends have had our prayers heard. As seen in the schematic above, along side the front gate to the park there will be an area reserved for the small dogs. Thank you, RUFF organizers for hearing out our needs and seeing that they were met.

The 130 tickets for the fundraising event, Barks and Beers, held at The Dog and Pony Grill and Alehouse, were sold out by the day of the event (Sat. 6/13) and the turnout was good. There were adorable table centerpieces, paw print balloons, a table full of "ruffle" prizes and a drawing for a trip to Victoria, replete with food, whale watching,etc. with tickets which were sold for a $5 donation. Dennis Law, our mayor, that's right! won that one. How did he pull that off? I hear that he bought scads of tickets. Wonder if the trip is "dog friendly?"

Christine Taylor (soon to be Christine Rousse) with her prize black lab plushy.

Amongst those gathered in support of RUFF (Renton's Unleashed Furry Friends/Renton Community Foundation), I saw Marcie Maxwell, Rich Zwicker and ever so briefly, Marcie Palmer. There was seating both in the outside beer garden as well as within the pub at The Dog and Pony. The fare was basic hotdogs and hamburgers with the inclusion of a Veggie burger for our nonmeat eating friends, plus a side of potato salad and some chips. There were about 6 beers on tap, all of them donated, and each ticket came with two beer coupons good for a pint of beer or a glass of wine or soda. Examples of the dog-themed beer of the evening were - Laughing Dog Brewery's Alpha Dog (a nice double IPA), and Flying Dog Brewery Double Dog Double Pale Ale.

We had gorgeous, temperate weather for the event. Everyone seemed to be having a really good time. The beer garden this day, alas, was free of dogs. Sorry Fido!

Big Dog Thanks go out to Jay and Kristen Fisher (Jay, pictured here above) for hosting and helping out with this event for such a good cause. Also, a shout out to the following companies who contributed to the successful evening:
Cedar River Composting
Click Distributing
Deschutes Brewery
Elysian Brewing Company
Food Services of America
Flying Dog Brewery
Fuller's Breweries International
Georgetown Brewing Company
Lagunitas Brewing Company
Laughing Dog Brewing
Mac & Jacks Brewing Co.
New Belgium Brewing
The Odom Corporation
Pacific Beverages
SAB Miller
World Class Beverages

Still want more!? Visit www.rentonoffleash.org

And now for a little summer fun

Summer vacations - remember those? It was the long awaited break from school and the chance to be on your bikes, in the park, eating Popsicles for days on end. Sigh.

Yesterday, I met Colby (above) in my picaroonish ploddings in the town we call home. Colby woke up yesterday with a mission - a burning desire to mow the lawn. At 5 am, he knew what yesterday was all about. Lawnwork.

Much to Ms. Nisha, his nanny's credit, by that afternoon he had lawnmower in hand (when you push it it produces bubbles - just the kind of machine after my own heart!) That is one big lawn, but Colby is full of determination. He is the man for the job.

Every once in awhile it's good to take a break. The lawn mower can be a seat on wheels for those inclined to take a moment to ponder the Universe's navel.

This is Phoebe - playmate to the industrious Colby. She wanted to make sure that I got a picture of her too. Fair is fair - she was helping blow bubbles and definitely setting the mood for summer fun.

Renton Fire Aftermath - where do you go when you haven't got a home?

This was the entryway to apartments on the second floor of the building that caught fire last night here in Downtown Renton. The entryway to the home of seven Renton residents, all whom escaped the 5 Alarm Fire without harm, but who now are also without a home.

Roy Beeler, manager of the apartment was there when the he heard the cry for help come from one of the tenants when the fire began. He was there when he opened doors to be met with thick clouds of nasty, cough inducing smoke to try to help people to safety. He is now also there to help relocate these 7 people to an adjacent apartment building that has vacancies (and is owned by the same owner, Mr. Bob Delancey, I believe) and to try to help with the businesses, The Comic Den and A-1 Vacuums & Locks, that lost their livelihoods as well.

People have already begun to inquire as to how they can help - that is the sort of town spirit that I am always proud to report. I have been informed that Red Cross has already met with the tenants and is helping them with their needs. But there are ways that you, Renton, can help:

From the desk of Jennifer Davis Hayes, Community & Economic Development:

There is hope that the two businesses in the building that caught fire can relocate to another storefront on S 3^rd St. Neither of these businesses had fire insurance due to the age of the building (cost prohibitive). A business relocation fund has been set up for A-1 at US Bank and they are working on setting one up for Comic Den at Bank of America. Donations can be made to either to help the businesses rebuild their livelihood.

Donations of twin mattresses for the residents and bedding and other household items are being requested. Roy Beeler, building manager, is accepting donations and can be reached at 425-227-5433.

We are fortunate that no one was hurt in the fire and thank the quick action of the Renton Fire & Emergency Services Department and other local departments for their actions.

The Renton Reporter has an excellent video concerning the fire - and you should check it out here. Great job with that, Dean!

Again - this is what make's Renton GREAT - and I couldn't be prouder.

The Comic Den - the aftermath of the Renton Fire is not very funny

One of the other biggest losses that occurred from the 5 Alarm Fire that struck downtown Renton last night was at The Comic Den - a venerable purveyor of graphic novels and comics for nearly 20 years. I think it goes without saying that a fire and then tons of water being sprayed to put said fire out are not the friend to anything made of paper. I have yet to hear, but I think most of the inventory must be permanently damaged.

I have been informed this afternoon that there is an account for The Comic Den also if you would like to make donations to help. Remember, this was a very old building and insurance would have been prohibitive and unaffordable, so Howard the owner unfortunately, was uninsured. You can make donations at The Bank Of America for The Comic Den (it is being set up right now) to help Howard rebuild and relocate his business. Please help with whatever you can. If we all give a little, it amounts to more than you would think.

This lot of water ridden comics were pulled from on top of the storm drain just at the corner of Wells and South Third. It must have drifted out of the building when the tide of water from the firemens' hoses washed the flames away.

This was The Comic Den just at the beginning of May when the owner, Howard Wheatly, participated in a National Comic Day and gave away free comics to anyone who came to the store, no purchase necessary. There were a dozen or more issues specially designed for the day, May 1st, and Howard had said that the 300 or so people that had come in that weekend was the best turnout he had had for this event to date.

This was one of my all time favorite windows that graced the front of The Comic Den. I am a bit of a Wolverine fan, so I could hardly help myself. I'm so glad, now, that I got this shot in when I did. It was still up last night before the fire struck.

I found this Joker action toy in the gutter near the scene of the fire. The Joker was always know for his notorious acts of violence in the Batman comic series. You know, The Joker is a self-professed Arsonist - and I blame him for this entire situation. And you can tell him that for me personally.

After the Renton fire - CK Nail Salon

The CK Nail Salon which is just around the corner from the building that was the site of our 5 Alarm Fire last night, has suffered some damages and must remained closed until further notice. As you can see from the photo - the ceiling sustained some fire damage and the whole store of course has a heavy smell of smoke. Not conducive to business at all - oh, and add to that the loss of power (which the city is working on as I write this to help reinstate for all of the businesses without it today - yeah Renton !), Chi and her hubby, Kevin, have to go stay closed for the moment. Good news is, when asked - Chi did say they had insurance (note: this is not the same building where the fire occurred, though the buildings did have a common basement it seems).

The great thing is that again, Renton cares. I overheard the first client that came by to check on her appointment and the state of affairs at the Nail Salon, the owner of the Cedar River Day Spa on N. First Street, ask Chi if she needed her and her mother to come by on Sunday and lend a hand in cleaning. Breaks my heart just a little every time I write about these private and caring moments that tragedy in our city brings out in people.

Here is Chi and her daughter on the sidewalk outside her establishment. You can just read her face to see how she feels today.

CK Nails & Spa 900 S. Third St. (425)282-6453

Call to check on when Chi can make an appointment - support our local businesses in their time of need!

After the Fire - what's so great about Renton

Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes has some smoke damage and loss of power after the 5 Alarm Fire that struck the neighboring building last night. And, they also have an order for a bunch of cupcakes for a Renton neighbor who is about to get married. That's right - Wedding Cupcakes.

The woman who placed the order lives right downtown - she heard the news of the fire and saw the damage. But Crystal (employee, cupcake baker) and Hang (owner) called her today and said that they wanted to make sure that her wedding went off without a hitch - and with her order of cupcakes.

This is were the story gets good and our town is, well, Great. The Law Offices of Green & Rousso (corner of Wells and South Third Street) agreed to give Common Ground a space in their offices to decorate the cupcakes today.

This is Crystal, with ingredients in hand as she goes off the make and bake the wedding cupcakes. She told me that she put on her favorite cupcake earrings today to lift her spirits for visiting the store after the fire.

Joe Kennedy, owner of Calico Cheesecake

More great neighborliness is exhibited by Calico Cheesecake, just up the street at the corner of Main Street and South Third, who are letting Common Ground bake the cupcakes in their ovens today. How cool is that!!??

I can never get over how wonderful it is to live in a town where people care. I have lived the anonymous life in great cities here and abroad - and it's kinda nice when you live somewhere that your face doesn't go unnoticed, nor do your troubles.

In this article here, by fellow blogger Randy Corman, it seems that we can hope to see the cupcake shop back soon. Ahhh - what a relief. This is exactly what hard times calls for - a little sweet relief, like only a cupcake or slice of cheesecake can provide. So get take your sweet tooth in hand and help out by snacking in your zipcode and showing that you care.


Common Ground Coffee and Cupcakes www.commongroundcupcakes.com
900 S. Third St. Unit A Renton WA (425) 235-1717

Calico Cheesecake Co. www.calicocheesecake.com
919 S. Third St. Renton,WA (206) 851-2571

A-1 after the Fire - Renton, you can help

A-1 Vacuums and Locks was hit hard last night by the 5 Alarm Fire - very hard. Owner Tom Swanson has no place to go and has a business that he needs to keep going. Renton, I know that you can help.


First off - Tom needs a place to make keys and keep himself financially afloat. The building that he rented in was old - 100 years old. He didn't have insurance - because they just don't give insurance out within the reasonable price range for a building that is so old that it doesn't even have a fire sprinkler system and got "grandfathered" in by the city because of it's "vintageness". So, if you have a little space that Tom could have right downtown to work out of so that he can have a way to keep his livelihood - please contact him and let him know (the number is right up there in the photo, folks)

Secondly - if you would like to help by donating to the good cause of helping Tom, who lost his whole business in the fire folks, you can go to any US Bank and make a donation for the account of A-1 Locksmith & Vacuum. Remember - anything will help, and a lot of little bits help to make a big "something".

Here is Tom Swanson himself - the city and it's members have been johnny-on-the-spot to help all the businesses that were effected by the fire. (This is where I insert a shout out to Jennifer Davis Hayes who gave me the info about Tom and his crisis). So have so many member of our community - we live in a great place, folks - just in case you are new to figuring that one out.

Day after the fire in Renton

This is the view that our downtown Renton peeps are privy to the day after our 5 Alarm Fire in our little burg. Firefighters still on the scene, though the fire was put out successfully last night with the help of over 100 firemen from Renton, Skyway, Kent and Tukwila plus the off duty members that were pulled into duty. They are assessing the damage - and the very little that is left of the building that once housed the Comic Den, A-1 Vacs & Locks and a handful of residents in apartments who once lived there. No one was hurt, mercifully, but the loss is great otherwise.


This is Jennifer Davis Hayes of the City of Renton checking in with the Fire Dept. and getting a handle on what she can do to help - which with Jennifer, is always a lot.



Luckily, you could still get a cup of coffee and come down and look what happened. Coffee is from Liberty Cafe and these locals are from left to right: Phyl Carroll, Ron Hughes, Sue Hughes, Bill Collins and Sarah Iles of the Renton Historical Museum. If you were a steady coffee client at the Common Ground Coffee & Cupcakes, you will be sad to know that their cafe was affected by the smoke and has some damage, so they are temporarily closed. But don't worry - they will be back.

This is Braden - and his great Grandfather, Mr. Anderson, was the owner of the now destroyed building. He is with his Grandmother Delancey, looking at the remains of his family's property and the loss of another piece of downtown Renton history.

This is the back of the building where two fire engines still remain and the firefighters are actively investigating the interior of the building.

Smoke and Flames in Downtown Renton

The second floor of the building that houses the Comic Den, A-1 Vac & Locks (looks like this was hit pretty bad and a mere shell of the building remains) and is a neighbor to St. Charles Antiques (current state unknown)and then Common Ground Cupcakes and Coffee (completely black inside, owner Hang and Lang will have to close for awhile to repair - damn!) caught fire this evening a bit before eight o'clock. This is a 3 Alarm Fire, folks. No - upgrade that - 5 Alarm Fire!

Our firefighters from Renton were joined by Kent, Tukwila, and Skyway firehouses (thanks to you for helping with our dear old downtown, fellas). I counted 5 large fire engines (apparently over 100 firemen) at the scene tonight, not counting Medic Vans and police cars. The turnout was immediate and impressive. Later, as I was writing this and downloading pictures - I heard a huge cry of happiness and clapping from the South Third Street vicinity. We really do appreciate you - you guys!






This is the back of the affected building - there is a small piazzalike parking area, and it was awash in smoke.

Our mayor, Dennis Law was immediately on the scene. I think that big walkie-talkie he is carrying comes with the job. He headed right into the smoke to consult with the firefighter crew.

Already on the scene was a professional photographer and soon after I saw the news helicopter cruising our Renton skies. You can be sure to find this event on the evening news.

Marcie Palmer was over at the South Renton Neighborhood Picnic at Burnett Linear Park this evening, when all of a sudden the firefighters who traditionally come and join the summer eat and greet event left in a hurry. Marcie says they had a good turnout until the fire put a kibosh on things. (That's Jay Hand from the Ancient Arts Tattoo right behind her).

"Try not to breathe this smoke, folks,it's not very good for you". This kind firefighter reminded all of us longneckers at the fire scene that the dark, heavy smoke pouring from the vintage building is probably full of things our lungs would rather not have first hand knowledge about.

Museum night out

Trying to put the "fun" in fundraising is not as easy as it once was. Wallets are a bit stretched and there are many different good causes pulling at our sense of duty and limited resources. The New York Times recently ran an article (here) stating that charitable giving is at an all time low - the worst in 50 years. It makes me sad just to contemplate the implications.

But in our fair city, the Renton Historical Museum has an amazing support system - and they turned out in good number last night for a lovely evening of food and fun.

Larry Sleeth and Don Persson catered a lovely meal (don't know how those guys do it!), a local trio called "The Tuesdays" played some tunes and long tables were full of goodies for the Silent Auction. The Renton Youth Council, comprised of kids from many local schools, helped set up and serve, as well as clean. Now that they are broken in, I figure they are welcome to come back and help any old time.

Councilman King Parker, Chief Daniels of the Fire Department and Renton Mayor Dennis Law and his wife were just some of the esteemed guests that turned out in support of our local gem of a museum. There were many others - please forgive me - I am still figuring out the "Who's Who of Renton", and can't be responsible to recognize everyone just yet.

My favorite little item of the night were the centerpieces that were for sale that evening. Created from lovely and delicate tea cups and saucers donated by Susie Bressan and planted with flowers by Robyn Bachas (both museum board members), I thought these lovelies so cute and crafty. I went home with a pair somehow, and I couldn't have been happier!!

Please note - anytime is a good time to visit our local Renton Historical Museum. Don't be shy - acquaint yourself with a bit of local history. It will be both harmless and fun.

Dog's best friend

You know me - love the wee bit of knittery. Especially when it concerns yarn and dogs at the same time.

A bee's life

Cross pollination is ever so important - even when the flower in question is a little - well, yarny, shall we say...

Our Friends at the Market

For the last three years, Darrell Westover of Westover Farms (seen every week at the Farmer's Market) has hosted a student from the MESA program. This is Maria, who hails from Ecuador, who has come on a mission to Renton to learn more about organic, sustainable farming (and English) and has a budding passion for hydroponics.

MESA - or Multinational Exchange for Sustainable Agriculture, handpicks from a group of applicants every year to work on their college degree in Agronomy abroad, approximately an 8 month stay. Maria had already completed 5 years of studying abroad in Cuba when she came to Maple Valley, so doesn't complain of homesickness but does complain about the cold climate. The last two weeks have been the first time she has felt warm since she arrived in late March.

What does Maria love about her stay in the our lovely burg? In a word - hamburgers.

Let me take you to the Market

Are these really radishes?

Eating at the market got a whole lot better this year - check out these smoked lox sandwiches available from Cap'n Mike's Holy Smoke - I salivate just looking at this.


You can't go to the market without smelling and savoring the hot sugary kernels of Popmaster Kettle Korn - and thanks to the lovely Nicole for modeling a surefire family favorite.


Yes, folks - bouquets of flowers are still a mere $5 dollars, and I see many a hubby scoring a bunch on their way home from work - this always produces a smile from Lady P.


The Hawaiian Shave Ice is a colorful indulgence on a warm day - scratch that, any day.

The cherries from Matawa, WA were unbelievable - and were almost sold out after our stroll through the market grounds today. Lucky for us, we had already shopped!


Fresh within the last week crab legs and halibut was to be had at the A&M Seafood stand - and that's your fisherman standing right there - direct to you from the sea. Aren't they too cute?

What a delicious new find - fresh Bagels! Seattle Best Bagel - made fresh every day, and now here in Renton - it's about time, I tell ya.

You know that the kids know how to have fun on market days - there is a activities center for them and free bubbles to be made.

The creek was a popular cooling off place today - lots of toes did some dipping.

A welcome new addition to the growing vendor list - handmade ice cream, created in oldfashioned wooden ice cream buckets, one batch at a time. Burton Brothers Handmade Gourmet Icecream - amazingly flavorful, scoring lots of lip smacking and smiles with every taste.

In Our Town - Renton in blue skied glory

What could be prettier than some of the sights and scenes of our town in the midst of a lovely summer day!

Much ado on South Third Street

Couple of weeks ago a sagging overhead wooden awning at the corner of South Third and Wells Street became a hazard to pedestrian health. Signs were put up and foot traffic was diverted, but low and behold, a work crew has been putting in hours to just generally improve the face of the old brick building at 812.

Everyday there are new improvements, and the store front that has remained without a tenant for quite awhile and a wherehouse for old computers and bikes seems to be getting a bit of refurbishment as well. So exciting - what other new little addition to our downtown might come in once the beautification has been finished?

Market Day!

It's that time of the week again - Market Day. Ahhh, nothing like seeing all of the wonderful new vendors that have joined us this year, noshing on some of the goodies to be had like the new gyros, or hot/fresh donuts, raising your libido with some fresh oysters or adding to your flower beds.

The Market runs today from 3pm to 7pm, at the Piazza at the corner of South Third and Burnett. The featured restaurant, 4th Street Grill, will be handing out free samples of their fare and Biff Moss will be providing us with some wonderful ukulele tunes (here's his CD).

Please check out the official website for the Farmer's Market, here, for more details.

See you at the Market!

Today's Full Moon

My dear friend, Molly Hall, writes for About.com in the field of Astrology. I always love to read what you she has to say, especially during Full Moons. You can visit her blog here, and here is her closing line from that post:

"The Full Moon reveals what's keeping you from living in the Now, with spontaneity and a sense of adventure. The square to Saturn may feel like taking two steps back -- not unlike truly doing a Spring Clean -- but the purging and purifying, though hard, will bring big rewards in the end"

What, is that music I hear?

I was sad to hear of the closing of Feathered Nest, but Sue Moeller (owner) assured me that she was really looking forward to enjoying retirement with dear Hubby. So when I heard today that as of July 1st, someone new will already be getting the key to this cute and cool location in the DTR (that's "Downtown Renton"), I was stoked!

Anybody down for Renton's first independent music store? Tyrannosaurus Records, where CD's will cozy up alongside the recent revival of bands issuing music on vinyl. Indie tunes, new and newer bands as well as somethings more mainstream is what I heard - but I will try to bring some more definite info in the coming days.

But, hey - that is enough info to get anyone excited!!

Mathmetize me!

What do quilting and math problems have in common? Well, the 9th grade Geometry class at Hazen High School have figured that out - literally. Stop by Happy Delusions on South Third anytime this month and check out the construction paper quilts that hang on view. Each quilt is a creative approach to the students showing a number of math ideas they have learned throughout the year and each quilt has a different take on these instructions.

I applaud Mary Clymer, and her Dad, for having the project on prominent display in the store and for the hours it took for the two of them to get the quilts all situated. I love when two seemingly incompatible areas of interest and study collide. This would have made my math class days far more enjoyable!

Why must it always rain on Swap Day?

Why must it always rain when people are unloading large furniture pieces, cleaning out the garage, being a good swap mate and bringing an unwanted "something" to share with the crowd? It didn't stop the cars from rolling in at a good pace with goodies to donate, nor did it stop the auctioneer with a persistent group of bidders from keeping their spots near the front. But it did continue to rain.

This expectant mother scored some great finds in the kiddie corner. She was smart and came with rain gear. It was just what my Mom would call, "spitting" rain when I arrived, but then it actually got a lot wetter than that, so I said goodbye to the intrepid swappers and left.

t

This was my one and only score of the day - a vintage edition of the board game, Clue. I was proud of this bit of swapping - but I had to be quick, those swappers get pretty territorial and I wasn't prepared to put up a fight without at least one more cup of coffee in me.

Fishing on the Cedar

While some of you are still brushing sleep from your eye, looking for the hot pot of coffee ever at you side, some intrepid fisherman are already out and about -

fishing on the Cedar.

Renton Reuse Day

This Saturday is the day you get to clear out the garage and other corners of unwanted items and then go search around and see if someone else's discard is your new found treasure.

It's Stop & Swap!

The One day Reuse Event at the Renton Memorial Stadium Parking Lot
Saturday, June 6 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
405 Logan Ave. North Renton, Wa

Almost anything that is in good and decent shape/condition and ready to be given away is acceptable.

Things you might bring: household items, tools, furniture, BBQs, vanities, doors and other building materials that are in good shape, hobby supplies, artwork

Leave these at home: garbage!, yard waste, mattresses, fridges, televisions, computers, tires, hazardous waste, windows

Hey - you don't have to bring anything to come - this is a FREE event!!


For an extensive list or swap items do's and dont's visit : rentonwa.gov

Just how hot is it!?

Just how hot is it? you may very well ask ... look at what the sign over on Main Street was saying to me a little over an hour ago - geez - it might even be hotter now!

Pool Time! Deb, over on S. Third at Girlfriend's, is my favorite pick-me-up - she's a comedienne at heart - just look at this pool! (and her feet were in it just minutes later!)

How bright the sun? Very bright it seems - you can see the sun just beating down
( Renton Historical Museum)

Graffiti Wipe Out!

Taggers finally made it into my neighborhood in North Renton - and I was pissed. They tagged the garbage container and the policeman who kindly took a look at it in passing not long after I discovered it said that it was someone he had seen actively tagging in the Renton Highlands.

Great.

I was at the North Renton Neighborhood Association meeting and Cyndie Parks from the Crime Prevention Unit was giving a talk and I asked her whom I should call when this occurs. Cyndie had brought some nifty handouts entitled " Wipe Out Graffiti" - a new program that Renton has become involved in since Dennis Law took office. In the pamphlet, it discusses calling in to the police if you see someone in the act of tagging and that there are Graffiti Removal Kits that are available to people who a victim of this type of crime and may not have the funds or means of dealing with it.

Rich Zwicker, also present at the meeting piped up and suggested that I call Waste Management, since the equipment (the trash container), was in effect, their responsibility. Great call there Rich. I took his advice.

Within a couple of days - the offending words had been sprayed over. Waste Management staff was very helpful and receptive to my call and need for graffiti removal assistance. The staff seemed a little uncertain on how to proceed at first. I may, in fact, have been their first call of this nature. Lucky them!

If you are a business in Renton, you are invited to "Team Up" with the city and become a partner against graffiti. For more information, please consider contacting the following:

Suzanne Dale Estey (425) 430 - 6591

Bonnie Rerecich (425) 430 - 6624

To report existing graffiti, call 425 - 430 - 7373
rentonwa.gov

Hitting the trail

The Cedar River Trail - resplendent with all of its verdant landscape, is the perfect getaway from the heat and still enables you to get a little exercise in. Two for the price of one!

Blackberry bushes are beginning to bud in this heat wave we are having, and the bits of bright color seep through the leaves at the trail's edge.

This is such a well known watering hole over near Riverside Park and in these hours, in frequent use. Doesn't a dip in the cool river water sound just about right now?

More of that crafty, yarn thingy, knit graffiti bits adhered to a bike rack nearby. Cute little coziness with a little color flair.

Let me take you to the Market

Lovely fruits and veggie vendors are back in numbers - and each stall is a little different, and the picking is fresh and inspiring.



It was a very hot one today, so the Shave Ice, Hawaiian style, was very popular - like with Pam and Lee Chiccoine right here. Uh, Pam - can I get a bite of that?


Emily Garland, reporter for our local rag, The Renton Reporter, was showing her Renton love in her T-shirt and getting some fresh photos and fresh goodies.


The lovely vendor with the Russian baked delicacies is back this year - heaven help my hips!


Darrell Westover of Westover Farm down Maple Valley way is back again this year starting off with some fresh salad greens and a big smile.

The Harmony Kings from Federal Way were a lot of fun and well, just plain cute. They even had a couple of youngsters joining them, preparing the way for future singing generations.

Friends Jenny and Jerry both had armfuls of delicate sweet pea flowers and were taking a spin around the crowded Piazza. The turn out today looked good.

I love that you can also find plants for the garden at the Farmer's Market. From this viewpoint, the Piazza grass looks transformed into a colorful garden.

The opening ceremonies had our council prez Randy Corman (though I sheepishly just missed them!) and with him is Rich Zwicker, council member, Randy's fair wife, Kathy and also Don Bressler of the Renton Technical Institute (you know Don is the head honcho up there).

The neighboring children's school on Burnett lead the kids out for a turn around the market - and they all send you out a great big Hi and say - let's make it a date for next week!

Meet me at the Market

Pretty flowers

You know that I can't resist taking these kind of shots - so just don't make me, or complain, or stop wondering if I can find yet another flower composition that I have yet to post yet- you can't.

Oh my, what a pretty bit of yarnbombing

I do love a bit of knitting ingenuity. Adds a bit of whimsy to the landscape, and tends to bring a smile to the face of anyone who happens upon it.

Renton shapes up

They meet every Saturday morning on the jungle gym where the Cedar River Trail meets the southeast corner of the Renton Memorial Stadium parking lot. Carolyn is the defacto leader - though she demurely denied the title when asked. There seems to be a circuit of workout exercises, but someone in the know pairs up with a newbie, and you are good to go. There is great camaraderie here, lots of wisecracks and general bonhomie - and all are welcome. Hey, they even invited me to join!

I apologize in advance if I caught anyone there on Saturday in a compromising position. They were all tremendous good sports and I could see that there were many levels of exercise abilities at play within the group. I think it would be safe to go and give it a try - regardless your gym class proficiency ( or let's cut to the chase - lack thereof!)

After a good sweat, and a lot of groaning ( or so it seemed to me) the newly tuckered out retire to the Common Ground Cupcakes and Coffee Shop on South Third Street to have a cup of coffee and kvetch. It ain't called Pain in the Grass for nothin'!

Farmers Market season begins tomorrow

Don't you just love to stroll through stalls full of fresh fruit and veggies, with your $5/6 dollar bouquet of flowers already in hand, waiting for a free sampling of a local restaurant or cooking school's fare and humming to the sound of some live music in the background? This is exactly the experience you get when you make shopping at the Renton Farmer's Market on Tuesdays a part of your summer routine.

The Farmer's Market is held on South Third Street at The Piazza from 3pm to 7pm. This Tuesday, June 2nd, The Renton Technical College's Culinary Arts Program will be handing out free samples of their cooking efforts ( I believe at about 5 pm) and The Harmony Kings will be providing music for our listening pleasure.

I love the Farmers Market. Even if you don't plan on cooking anything this week, come and buy some lovely eats and treats. Personal favorites are the roasted ears of corn and the locally made chocolate truffles. Never can get enough of either.