The overly-green Seattlite

While you're in Seattle...and I hope it is for a long period...you'll inevitably come across that not-so-nearly-as-rare-as-they-should-be overly Green Satellite.

Not that there is anything wrong with being overly green.  There is nothing wrong with pre-packing lunch in your reusable self-made-upcycled lunch bag to cut back on waste and cost. 

There's nothing wrong with carrying your clean coffee mug with you everywhere and making sure the coffee you drink is organic-shade-grow-fair-trade-arabica-bean-and-song-bird-friendly by asking the Barista before you pay. 

There's nothing wrong with walking or taking the bus everywhere. 

There's nothing wrong with only shopping at fair-trade or made-in-America ma and pop stores for everything you can.

There is, however, a problem when you not only live this life but advertise it to the utmost.  And here is where the overly green satellite comes in.



Now, how can I stop and ID an OGS so easily?  I used to be one.  And I'm trying to be one again...



Now, I'm a big advocate of green living and immersing yourself into the local culture as much as possible when traveling or living in a new area.  With this in mind, I'm going to give you some tips on how to be as obnoxious as I was when I was an OGS to truly experience Seattle from a perspective even most Satellites won't approach.




1) Reusable everything!  Reusable bags, cups, mugs, lunch bags, sandwich bags, bread bags, produce bags, water bottles, and to-go containers are a must.  If you can replace something non-reusable with something reusable, do.  If you find something that can't be recycled or reused, don't get it. 

2) Avoid plastics and aluminum at all costs, in favor of glass, cloth, and stainless steel.  Apart from the massive amount of pollution that comes from the production of plastics and aluminum, there are a ton of chemicals leeched from plastics, and aluminum has been linked to several different disease (including Alzheimer's, which is hereditary in my family) and is a known neurotoxin.  Plastic is also more difficult to recycle and eventually has to be down-cycled.  Glass, on the other hand, is easier to recycle and uses fewer resources in general and, usually, doesn't leech chemicals.  Cloth can be grown organically and recycled and upcycled easily.  Stainless steel doesn't leech weird chemicals (as far as I know, please correct me if I'm wrong).

3) Go Vegan or Freegan and advertise the benefits to ANYONE who will list, and most who won't. 

4) Refuse to eat at restaurants that serve on non-reusable plates; this means that all taco-trucks, fast-food restaurants, and many sit-downs with disposable plates and cups are off limits.  Good luck!

5) Shop exclusively used, American-Made, and fair trade.  Good luck finding a professional suit that looks half-way descent.  Good luck finding electronics that don't suck-up electricity and that work properly.  And good luck with underwear...

6) Share your lifestyle as much as possible.  Tell anyone who will listen about it, no matter how irrelevant it is to the current conversation topic...

7) Champion local businesses.  I'd personally like to promote Elliot Bay Book Company, Twice Sold Tales, Value Village, Cafe Vita, Cherry Street Coffee House, Red Light, The Feed Bag, and Travelers tea shop.


There is more, but I'm falling asleep...night!

Little Pig Book: Pacific Supply Hardware Store

Welcome to another addition of my Little Pig Book series...Today's special is the Pacific Supply Hardware store on Capitol Hill along 12th Ave.

This photo retrieved from here.

In short:
     Pacific Supply
     1417 12th Ave, Seattle Capitol Hill
     (206) 322-1717
     Monday-Friday: 8-6
     Saturday: 9-5
     Sunday: 10-5

And more stuff...

    My first association with Pacific Supply (PS) was when I started riding my bike from 6th and Yesler to my work at Seattle University, and school as Seattle Central Community College.  First the breaks were broken, so I nipped into Velo Bikes for the brakes, and then into PS for actual wrenches and such.  Then the seat needed to be adjusted.  Then the lights added.  Then the chain changed. 

Every time I could come to PS and know that a) they would be really helpful and patient with me while I explained the issue, b) they would take a look at the bike with me and help me figure it out, and c) that the trip would be affordable. 

What struck me each time I went in there was how friendly and helpful everyone was.  I wish I had taken down names because I want to thank them individually, but there wasn't a single unhelpful store associate there, and since I went there about 30 times over the last 3 month period I lived in Seattle, I'll assume I met at least most of them.

The greatest thing for me, however, was knowing this was a small, independent store.  The store associates were working for their bread and butter, rather than a meager paycheck from a corporate middle-man, and they knew their store inside out.

Anywho, point; if you ever need hardware supplies or such in Seattle, Pacific Supply is the place to go. 




Rules of Seattle: Pacific Supply Hardware Store

Rule #1: Be polite
These are Store associates that love their job and work their butts of.  They know what they're doing, they know what they're talking about, and deserve respect.

Rule #2: know as much about the product you need as possible
It will just make things easier for everyone.

Rule #3: don't gawk at the prices
The prices are pretty good in general, but if you find that one product that is a little more expensive than Ace or Walmart, don't give them grief; it's an independent store that needs all the support it can get.

Rule #4: ask for personal suggestions and advice regarding the product or issue
If you're looking for a specific set of wrenches (is it obvious by now that I don't know much about tools?), ask the associate if they recommend one over the other.  If price is an issue, state that first.  Usually, they'll work within your limits.

Etiquette in Seattle

Depending on where you go in the world, there will be different rules of etiquette for different situations.  For example, in the US, it's perfectly acceptable to tell a homeless person to f**k off (unfortunately), but try to pull that in England and you'll get mugged (so I've heard from my grandfather living in England who tried to tell a homeless man to f**k off).

The point is, social etiquette varies from one place to another, and frankly, it varies in how frequently it is actually employed by the general public. 

Unfortunately, social etiquette in Seattle seems to only take place in situations where it is absolutely necessary, where as in comparison, in So Cal, people in general are polite and friendly all of the time.

I'm going to provide some examples so someone can get an idea.

Person "X" walks back into a store to return something:
CA: "Good morning, "X", how can I help you.
WA:   *ignore you for a few minutes while the coffee kicks in.  "...Yes???"


Person "X" orders an espresso from a cafe:
CA: "Good morning, "X", what can I get for you?" (X enters order) "Would you like soy milk/ low sugar syrup instead?  Can I get you anything else?"
WA: "What can I get 'cha?" (Put in order) "OK, we'll call you when it's ready" *Never hear anything...retrieve your coffee when it's already starting to cool*


Person "X" passes by someone walking their dog while jogging/walking:
CA: "Morning"
WA: *Desperately tries to avoid eye contact*


Person "Y" walks out of the washroom with toilet paper trailing from the bottom of their shoe, and person "X"...:
CA: *Quickly pulls the individual aside to a discrete place and says* "Pardon me, but you have something on your shoe."
WA:
X:"Excuse me"...*Person Y avoids eye contact*
X: ..."Excuse me"...*Person Y avoids eye contact even more so, tries to walk on other side of road if possible.  By now person X chases Y down. 
X: "EXCUSE ME.  You have toilet paper on the bottom of your shoe..." *Person Y no longer paranoid that the person is trying to mug them.*
Y: "Oooohhh....Thank you..." *walks away quickly o save face*


I know these are stereotypes and hasty generalizations, but the fact of the matter is that during the 3 years I lived in Seattle, I noticed customer service was almost non-existent, an 'aggressive aloofness' was very popular, and people's unwillingness to recognize other people were around them were very rampant.

That isn't to say, however, that most or everyone in Seattle is like this, but a great deal of them are. 

I found the only time people really employed standards of social etiquette that was popular elsewhere was during times that were pre-established social events.  For example, parties, suppers, dinner parties, and so on were always a time when people were on their best behaviour. 

When you go to Seattle, just remember that if ever you come upon someone who isn't right-out polite, it's not you, it is almost certainly them.

My little Pig Book: Seattle Art Museum

This is the second part to my many-part series of "Little pig book".  The little pig book was a book I put together while I lived in Seattle that had a list of my favorite places in Seattle for work, school work, coffee, food, and shopping. 

Today's focus is the ever-wonderful, ever-engaging, ever stocked Seattle Art Museum.  Call it SAM.

In short: 1300 1st Ave
       Seattle, WA, 98101
       206. 654. 3100.
       Monday-Tuesday: closed
       Wednesday and Sunday: 10-5
       Thursday, Friday, Saturday (maybe Saturday): 10-9.
       $15 adult, $9 student
       Camera: No Flash, Tripods, or Movie/Video Camera's.       

There are actually two main parts to the museum: the actual outdoor garden along the Seattle Waterfront...

photo from here.

And the SAM proper, along 1st Ave, just down the hill from Pike Place Market.

Photo from Here.

The Seattle Art Museum has unusual hours (see above in the "in short" section), but as it is a small museum, it's easy to become acquainted with the museum in an hour or so. 

Among the more memorable displays at the museum are the Dog-Tag Chain-Mail (for the record, I've been told by several curators that these are not official dog tags, as in they were not taken from soldiers).

Photo from here.

The museum is just as much about actual art (mostly modern) as well as culture.  There are Egyptian, Native American, Pacific Islander, African, and other cultures with examples in the museum.  And there are examples of art from several different eras in the US and Europe. 

One of the cultural displays I was partial to was the fine china room; a room filled top to bottom with extremely fine examples of fine china. 

Photo from Here.

However, my favorite room is one that's a little hidden.  It literally took me 3 visits to find it, and it's by far and away the best jewel in the museum.  It is...the Italian Room...

Photo from Here.

Photo from Here.

The room, if I remember correctly, was actually cut out from a renaissance Italian Mansion and rebuilt board for board in the little nook of the SAM, including the original window, and features examples of Italian pottery and art in it.  It's tiny but you can spend hours in it.

So!  The RULES part.

Rule #1: Do bring a CAMERA (not a camcorder or such) without flash!  You will find an art piece that you want to remember, or inspiration for a tattoo, and there's nothing worse in these scenarios than being without a Camera.

Rule #2: Do pack light.  I don't know why people feel the need to bring tons of stuff to the SAM.  Luckily, there is a bag-check area on the first floor, make good use of it.

Rule #3: everyone there is a volunteer.  Be nice: if I remember correctly, the Sam is run by the Seattle Gov. Everyone there is a volunteer, and they're there out of the kindness of their heart.  Be good to them. 

 Rule #4: DO NOT CHEW GUM!!! It's a disgusting habit anyway.  Unless you're trying to quit smoking and you're going to explode unless you smoke, do NOT chew gum; it distracts from the atmosphere of the museum.

Rule #5: Do keep your voice down.  Unless you're teaching a class, there is no reason why your moment of euphoria should affect anyone else's.

Rule #6: DO NOT answer your cell phone:  Do not want to hear your conversation.  Just...do not.  It's the biggest sign of poor breeding or rearing to talk on your phone in museum, restaurant, or any other place were the contents of the area should demand your attention over the phone.

Rule #7: Do eat at the SAM: It's catered by my old employer in Seattle, Bon Apatite Management Company.  The food is sustainable, organic, flavorful, healthy, and excellent.  You won't regret it.

Seattle and you're internet addiction...

photo from Here.

Everyone has a couple of addictions; shopping; food; alcohol; the media; Internet in particular...  I know that almost everyone can sympathize with that last addiction.

The Internet is the go-to source for everything; amature car mechanics trying to learn their chops from YouTube; Community College students working last minute on their 10 page essay; and those of us just desperate to look at the latest kitten photos.

In Seattle, in general, there isn't too much of an Internet problem; it's usually pretty reliable.  However, on certain days when the weather is just way too bad, the Internet tends to fail, and you'll be required to seek out an alternate source (usually an Internet cafe...their Internet is always good, and it's a damn conspiracy, I tell you!).

So, when you go to Seattle, unless you'll be there for longer than a month or it's an obvious business trip, I have some obvious tips that people tend to over-look.

Rule #1: Do locate the closest Internet cafes near your hotel.  Most hotels in Seattle have free wifi now, but even their Internet connects can fail, and when this happens, I can guarantee you the cafe down the street will still be fully functioning.

Rule #2: Do leave your laptop at home: If you're spending your vacation hours surfing the net for cute kitten photos, you're either taking a well deserved break from an 18-hour day of adventure, excitement, and discovery in the heart of Seattle...or you're doing it wrong.  There should be no need for your laptop.  This is also another good excuse to go to the Internet cafe and grab a good cup of coffee and use one of their computers.

Rule #3: Do set up a drop-box account: On the distant possibility that you may actually take photos or such, you want to secure in an email or a file.  Drop box is excellent for storing documents, articles, and photos that you take on vacation and want to be able to save to a computer back at home.

Rule #4: Do avoid facebook for a few days: This has nothing to do with visiting Seattle, I just want people to spend less time on facebook...

My little pig book: Salumi's

I recently found my little pig book of Seattle.  (see above)

While living there I bought this book from Elliot Bay Book Company, and ended up turning into a "places to go" book, where I wrote notes about the best spots to take guests to, the best coffee places, places that sold specific hard-to-find supplies for henna or such, and so on.  Most of them are places that I frequented or that guests always asked me about.

I figured there's no better place to share this book than here.

So here's the (ironically fitting) first entry: Salumi's in Seattle's Pioneer Square.

In short:  309 3rd Ave S
               206. 223. 0817.
               Tuesdays-Fridays 11-3:30
               *It's all good, but if it's nice outside, go to waterfall park (@ 219 2nd ave Along Main St).

WARNING: If you're vegetarian (like me) or Vegan, just skip this entry.  Unfortunately there's nothing for you here except some excellent cheese...

Photo from here.

photo from here.

Salumi's located on the corner of 3rd Ave, Main St, and the extension of 2nd Ave is a Seattle culinary hot spot.  There aren't too many culinary things Seattle does well in particular, but Gravlax, Espresso/Cafe, Sourdough bread, and Salumi's are a different story.

If I understand the Salumi story correctly, Salumi's was the hatched-retirement-nest-egg of a retired Boeing employee, Armandino Batali, who is also the father of renowned Seattle Chef Mario Batali.  After a 30-year run with Boeing, he went back to Italy to study that art of curing meats and, might I say, he did everything correctly.  The beauty of Salumi's is that it's all made in house, and it truly is a form of art; the consistency and flavor is just remarkable.

Photo from here.  This is how I know Salumi's.

If you're in Seattle for more than a couple of days, be sure to come here at least twice.  The first time, you really ought to try their sampler plate.  It's not the best thing on the menu, but it's a good introduction to the wonderful world of Salumis, and you'll get an idea of the variety of flavor available. 

The second time you come, ask the server what they suggest, and get that.  Trust me, they know what they're talking about.  If someone can work at a place and recommend a sandwich that hasn't gotten old yet, it's gotta be good.

Unfortunately, Salumi's (while I still lived there) had weird hours, so if family or friends are visiting and this is a must-see spot (nothing wrong with loving food this much), then make sure you put a whole day aside dedicated to Salumi's.  The last time I checked, their hours and days were Tuesday through Friday, 11-3:30.  It may not seem like a lot of time, because it isn't.  And there have been many days when they've had to close early because all of the product sold before closing time.

I wish I was kidding.  This place is just that good.

Fashion in Seattle

Photo from here: an appropriately named blog called "Hipster Fashion"

I heard it from my piercer, his room mate, my best friends brother, and a professor before I moved to Seattle: Seattleites are not as hot because they don't dress up.

This is frankly BS.

California's are used to either always dressing up and looking good, or always being casual and looking good.  Seattleites...are the same.

There are a few key differences between Seattleite looking-good and CA looking-good.  CA pairs clothes that look good and keep the wearer cool, and tend to not give two schticks about where their clothes were made or bought from.  Seattleites always look good while staying warm (or cool) and actually care where their clothes come from.

The most recent fashion trends I saw in Seattle (in September, 2011) were as follows:

Photo from here.

1. Anything American Apparel: AA is made in the US, so nerd points for that aspect.  And the fashion of AA is very similar to the staple fashion of the US in the 80's and 90's.  If you're in Seattle and want to wear clothes that no one will have a beef with, wear AA.  And be prepared to dish out $300 a purchase.

Photo from here.

2. A flashback to the 80's: You might think this photo was taken in '87.  Nope.  It was taken 3 days ago outside of Seattle Central Community College by my coworker Linda (she's the one behind the camera). 

      OK, I'm lying, but everything you see in this photo is back in fashion in Seattle, in moderation.  I'm pretty sure I bought that purse on the far right hand side about 8 months ago from Value Village on Capitol hill, but because I paired it with a skin-tight contemporary red dress, it was a hit at the bar.  And the whole low-cut shoes with high-cut socks look?  As long as the shoes and socks don't match, you're a fashion icon in Seattle.

     Scary, hu?

Photo from here.

3. Thrift store fashion: The best fashionistas in Seattle appreciate how much good schtick you can get at a thrift store or a 2nd hand store; how else can you get the most authentic 80's-looking purses or shoulder pads?  Top hits in Seattle include Buffalo Exchange on Capitol Hill and University District; Value Village on Capitol Hill; Life Long Thrift Store on Capitol Hill; and Atlas Clothes in Fremont.

If you're going to Seattle for a vacation and want to fit in just a little more, don't leave home without these staples:

1. Small purse, preferably a thrift store find.

2. Sun glasses; don't kid yourself, it does get sunny in Seattle.

3. A high-fashion coat or jacket (in case it gets cold)

4. Tight skinny jeans

5. tattoos.  Just do it.  You know you want to.

6. Men, grow a mustache.  The more epic, the more drinks you'll get at the bar.

7. Women, short flared skirts.  Again with the drink thing.

DO NOT, above all things, DO NOT WEAR A FLANNEL and expect to not be mugged in Seattle. 

Photo from here.

If these men were in Seattle, they'd be lost.  It doesn't matter how epic their mustaches or beards are, or how tight their jeans are, or how good the beer in their hands are, or where they got their tattoos.  The flannels cancel out any coolness involved.











Seattle Libri

Photo from here.

Seattle is a bit of a Mecca for nerdy readers.  It's nothing compared to New Yorks' library, or even the libraries of England, France or Italy, or the traders of Timbuktu (used to be one of the best cities to seek old and rare manuscripts).  But for those who love a good book store or a lovely library to curl up in and spend a few hours reading, Seattle is a small but happy home.

There's a couple of reasons for this, but most notably, Seattleites almost inherent hatred for big-box stores and love for Ma-and-pop shops.  Seattle may be the home of Amazon and Costco and Kirkland, but the book stores that thrive there are Elliot Bay Book Company, Inner Chapter books, Twice Told Tales, and anything else around the corner that doesn't have a big-store-name.

Seattleites inherent dislike of bog-box names is so strong, while I was at SCCC, the student government discussed trying to remove the school book store from the patronage of Barnes and Nobel.  And I can't remember a single class where a professor didn't say something along the lines of "consider checking out Elliot Bay Book Company for this book...support your local shop."  It was refreshing, frankly.

So, for the nerds out there thinking of nerding it up on their trip to Seattle, I suggest a couple of destinations.

1. Seattle Public Library, Down Town location: located along 4th and Madison/Spring St, this impressive example of contemporary architecture is as much fun to navigate as it is to patronize (you read me).  To be frank, there are two main reasons to come here; 1. the presentations (there's always a free book reading or free dance show) and 2. trying to figure out how to get to the 6th floor (there are 7 floors but the last floor is reserved for library staff).  You'll want to take your time trying to WALK up to the 6th floor.  Be sure to get off at the 4th and 5th floors and walk around to see how the floor plan changes over just a few feet.  For those who can compare it, it's a little bit like being in the Winchester Mansion.

2. West Seattle's Public Library: make sure you go to the one near Alki beach (address 2306 42nd Avenue SW), the building used to be a Carnegie building, and is a great example of early 1900's architecture.  the selection isn't so good, but the architecture is pretty good.

3. Elliot Bay Book Company: located on capitol hill along Pike St (ask anyone walking in the area, they'll know where it is) it's not very interesting or imposing on the outside.  Once inside, however, it's almost enlightening.  The wood floors are almost art in and of themselves, but the stained glass just adds to the je ne se qua of the building.  The selection is great, the magazine section is almost a book store in and of itself, and the prices are pretty good; they tend to be more affordable than Barnes and Nobel. 

If you do go, take the time to check out the odd fellows cafe next door.  Try to make it for "happy hour" or brunch. 

4. Inner Chapter books: A new and used book store, the ambiance in and of itself is pretty fun; if you remember the chic-90's vibe, it's a cross between that and current Seattle hipster.  But you can't beat the prices and the espresso rocks.  Whatever you do, make sure you skip the open mic (it used to have)...

5. ask a Seattleite: I'm rusty on my bookstores.  It's been a full 6 months since I moved back to CA.  I can't recall all of the awesome book stores throughout the city (including one along 1st Ave and close to Seneca), but if you ask a Seattleite, they'll be happy to point you towards a good one.


Don't forget Seattle Rules.

Rule #1: DO NOT read a twilight book in Seattle.  The Twilight saga is a divisive issue among Seattleites who care.  They either love it (because it has to do with Washington) or hate it (because it's a terrible series).  Either way, play it safe and don't read this in public.  Keep it to yourself.

Rule #2: Do mute your cell.  There's nothing more irritating than trying to read a book in a book store or an area dedicated to reading, and having to deal with the schmuck with a inferiority complex who needs ton constantly feed his ego with unnecessary phone calls (or schumuck-ett).

Seattle Central Community College: decaying institution of education

Photo from here.  This is the front of the main building, on the corner of Pine and Broadway.

In Seattle, I finally went from taking my education for granted to becoming engaged in my education and where it was going to lead me.  So when I found out the best school I could go to was Seattle Central Community College (SCCC), located almost right next Seattle University (my work), I was thrilled.  I'd read article after post after decree that SCCC was the best Community College in Washington State, with higher success rates, better programs, better professors, and better funding than any other.

What I didn't take into consideration when this was read, was how truly awful the general state of CC was in Washington...



Most of the praises I'd read were before 2007.  In 2007, it genuinely was the best school in WA.  By 2008 when I arrived, everything had dipped.  Essential classes were cut from 4 or 5 offered every quarter to 1 every other.  Overcrowding was an issue.  Every room in the main building had mold, leaks, or other structural issues.  Students couldn't used the balconies because they were so unstable, we were actually told by the janitors that they could fall down (Oh heck!).  One particular school official was remove in 2010 for monetary issues (embezzlement or mismanagement), but not much was heard about it (I won't discuss it here because I don't know all the details, just what I was told by some school officials).

Despite the title of this post, and all of the things I listed above, the school had a lot of redeeming qualities; teachers who, despite the issues were overly dedicated to their work (including Ms. Jewel, Mr. Niebler, Ms. Wendy Rockhill, Mr. Pete Knutson, a lot more that I can't remember). 

If it hadn't been for the help offered to be by my professors regarding almost everything, from counseling (academic) to help with my assignments, to the occasional professor willing to listen to an idea for a career and offer feed back, I'd be completely lost in the school system. 

With this rant still festering, let me take the time for a few more rules when dealing with SCCC

Rule #1: Do not speak to the councilors at SCCC and expect them to be knowledgeable about what they're talking about.  Unfortunately you'll have to speak to these councilors at least once while your there.  Before you go, research your questions and concerns as much as possible, and be willing to speak to two councilors (An SCCC councilor and a transfer councilor) to get a clear, accurate answer.

Rule #2: Do not expect the clubs to be overly active.  A lot of the clubs on campus aren't actually very active, particularly because (from my own experience) Seattleites don't seem to really know how to work together on issues or projects, or how to be assertive about their goals.  If you do become active in a club, be willing to do most of the work yourself. If you become lucky, like I was, you'll end up working with some of the few really driven students on campus.

Rule #3: Do not eat in the cafeteria. trust me; I worked in food service for 3 years, I can tell an unhygienic kitchen from a hygienic one, and that particular kitchen was not hygienic.

Rule #4: DO eat at the schools restaurant.  The school's culinary program is EXCELLENT, and provide themselves on sustainability, quality, and precision.  What's more, their kitchen is cleaner, the food is better, and you can't beat the price; I bought a full-priced salad for $2.50, and a full sized pasta for $4. 

Rule #5: Do go to the 5th floor of the main building.  The view from the 5th floor is spectacular, and the 5th floor balcony is the only balcony not falling apart, offering more opportunities for a better view.

Rule #6: Do not use the restrooms unless you must.  Between 2008-2011, the same three toilets were out of order.  By the time I left, they'd just begun to fix them.  General quality of the rest rooms was pretty bad.

Rule #7: Do Check out the green house.  It's a little difficult to find, but ask someone the way to Mama Mia's Pizza, then head down the neighborhood towards the parking structure.  It's hidden just behind there.  You'll be amazed at the prices for their plants (VERY affordable) and the projects they having going on there.

Photo from here, the blog for SCCC's Plant Sciences Laboratory.

Don't Pick on Our Homeless...

Photo from here.  Mayor Nickles was known for his inactivity and counter-productive measures during his 2 terms as Mayor in Seattle.

While in Seattle, I was struck by something my previous-urban existence didn't have to deal with too much; blatant homelessness.  

I know it's a weird way to phrase it, but there is a difference between having all the homeless individuals who happen to walk into your area of town shipped off to another (like they did in my "native" Anaheim, CA), and walking past them as they sleep in the corners of my building on a daily basis.  Frankly, I was sheltered from the cold hard depression that comes with acknowledging the issue and seeing it daily.

Seattle, like any major city, has a large homeless population.  According to this flyer, "A Realistic Look At The Need" (complied by Seattle/King County Coalition on homelessness) On January 28 2011, there were 8,824 homeless people in Seattle outside, in shelters, or in transitional housing. 

Seattle is responding, however; Seattle has something called the "Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness."  A big goal, to be sure.  According to the link,

"The plan, introduced in March 2005, has been approved by the Metropolitan King County Council and endorsed by cities representing 85 percent of the county's population, as well as by dozens of social organizations and faith communities countywide."

The plan is divided into 5 sections, including preventing homelessness (incorporating affordable housing options as well as well as increasing community services access) and securing 9,500 units of housing for homeless individuals.

While an ambitious plan, it was unfortunately formed while the economy was still decent in 2005.  Since then, there has been a large outcry regarding not only the success of the program, which is debatable, and concern that the money is being put towards something that isn't as pressing as, say, public education or public transportation.

Unfortunately, from what I gathered from the few homeless people I spoke to in Seattle, things only became harder and harder as the years went on.  That's not to say that there isn't still help out there; but it is to say that it's harder to access it, a lot of programs don't take different types of homeless individuals into consideration, and generosity from the general public has shrunk.

There is a specific way that a lot of Seattleites address, treat, and consider the homeless. 

So I'd like to take this time to point out the rules in Seattle when a homeless individual is concerned.

Rule #1: Do not belittle the homeless.  Seattleites are not the most protective of individuals, but a lot of Seattleites respect that it's difficult to get back into the "normal life" once one has become homeless.  If you take the time to tell a homeless person they're scum, or to tell them to "get a job," be prepared to have a small mob of angry citizens chasing you up 1st Ave (I've seen it happen).

Rule #2: Do not tell the homeless to "get a job."  First off, there are a ton of Seattleites who are not homeless who cannot find work, even with the benefit of access to hygienic rituals, computers, the Internet, printers, help with resumes, suits, clothing, and a bus pass.  It's harder when you're homeless and don't have access to these things.  Second, there's almost always a legitimate reason why they're homeless, unfortunately often times a medical issue is involved.  Third, unless you're willing to hire them, you have no real authority to tell them this.  Finally, if you do, you're just a douche.

Rule #3: Be willing to give out a buck or two on occasion.  This is more of a personal decency thing.  If you're of a major religion, there are spiritual reasons to this.  If you're of a social nature, there are cultural reasons for this.  And if you're of a stingy nature, there is a humbling reason for this.  On top of that, the more money you give, the more prestigious you'll be in the eyes of the few Seattleites who see you.

Rule #4: Have a conversation with them.  I know how scary this can be, but often times a homeless individual knows the best way to a particular location or where a certain building is.  They also make for a frighteningly-enlightening portrayal of Seattle and life in general; you'll learn more about life and Seattle in a 2 minute conversation with a homeless individual than with a business man.  And in general, its good Karma to help remind someone that they're human and that we recognize that.

Rule #5: if you have take out or a doggie bag that you can spare, spare it.  The best way to do this is to drop it off to someone who is sleeping, or to ask someone who is pan handling 1. are you allergic to anything?  and 2. would you like this.  (BTW, don't give them the food if there is something in there that they're allergic to.  Just had to write that out.)

Rule #6: don't take shit from them.  I was hit on by more homeless individuals in 1 month in Seattle than I care to mention; one even offered to take me to the local soup kitchen as a first date.  And many an individual became aggressive when hitting on me.  So don't be afraid, if they don't get the first polite hint, to tell them to "F*** off" or find a way to obviously insult them.  This is more of a general rule of thumb in Seattle when dealing with an unwanted pick-up line, but I personally found it applied even more so with the homeless men I had to deal with than the men I met at bars or parks. 



Seattle University: good views

This is the student center.  Photo from here

I had a really depressing dream about SU last night; I received a full scholarship including room, food, and a stipend, but because I accepted it 3 months too late the offer was rescinded. 

For those of you who don't know SU, SU is a private Jesuit University in the heart of Seattle on Capitol Hill.  It was established in 1891 and has a long tradition of excellence and acceptance. 

I worked in the student center, shown above, for 3 years (2008-2011) as a lunch lady for Bon Apatite.  Because I walked through SU every day from home to my school at Seattle Central Community College, I knew a lot of the structures throughout the school.  Here are some of the cooler ones...

photo from here 

Above is the inside view of Saint Ignatius Chapel in Seattle.  What I always found amusing was that Saint James Cathedral, the main cathedral of all of Washington state, had a priest that could not compare in sympathy, activity, or enthusiasm in worship to the priest of SIC.

Photo from here

This is a view of the chapel from the outside.  The architecture is very natural in its inspiration and coloration, but modern and refreshing and...oddly inviting.

Photo from here

This is the centennial fountain.  It wasn't really the highlight of SU for a lot of people but it's nice all the same.  The tree in the background is really massive; I couldn't appreciate how large it was until I was riding my bike up the hill and had to swing out of the walk way onto the grass.  The tree is literally so large that it sometimes prevents passing on the designated walk way.  The prettiest sight in Seattle around Christmas time was this tree; they'd professionally string it with lights.  It's also a bit of a controversy on campus; the campus is officially devoted to trying to be as ecologically friendly as possible, and every year there's always some assembly of students trying to prevent the lights for that year.

photo from here

The stairs on the inside of the new section of the library are more fun than they should be.  The stairs connect between the 3rd floor and the 2nd floor, the top one actually housing most of the books and a lovely magazine-reading room.  The second floor houses the computer room and a cafe.

Photo from here

The image above is a generated image of the new library.  Construction started just after I started working in 2008-2009.  It was done by 2010 or 2011, and it was worth every penny (according to the students I talked to).

OK, the things that can't be substantiated by photos; the attitude of SU.

Frankly, there are 3 attitudes in SU amongst the students:

1. The Rich A**hole: this accounted for a small but vocal and active population of the student body.  Only about 10% of the students were afflicted with this condition, but they did quite a bit of damage in the process; spending thousands of mommy and daddy's money on temporary fashion trends and cars and unnecessary classes; stealing tones of food from my employers; skipping classes and tests to go to the latest high-rise club; coming into the cafeteria every Saturday morning reeking of alcohol, vomit, and stupid...The symptoms are endless.  However, while difficult, this condition is curable; a quick dose of reality is usually the trick.

2. The Nerd: I use this term in the looses manner possible; even the nerds in Seattle look good.  But these were the students who would make a burrito last all day because they were so deep in their studies in the lunch room.  These were the students who typically balanced full time school, academic activity, and charity work all in the same hour.  And these were the best students to deal with.

3. The in-between: The student who managed to get in but didn't know what they wanted to do with their education or life.  However, by Junior year, every one of them knew they path and had quickly converted to being a nerd.

The general atmosphere of SU is pretty good; the faculty and staff are VERY accepting of all students, regardless of political leanings, race, religion, sexual orientation, blah blah blah...what struck me as being particularly wonderful was the way the school embraced and protected its LGBT community on campus; gay clubs, awareness of the issues, and they would take bullying very seriously.  I had some openly-gay students tell me they felt safer on campus than they did back at home.

The school in general, while catholic, is pretty liberal; there were sex-ed weeks, tree STD testing, condoms given out, and the school nurse would even recommend people to see Planned Parenthood if it was needed.  In general, SU was a school with values...one of those being to not persecute people for their differences.

It cannot be stressed enough how excellent of a school SU is.  If you're ever in Seattle, check it out.

My Seattle: Lincoln Park

 Lincoln Park, located in West Seattle (just catch the #54 bus, you'll stop right by it) is another example of Seattleites love for outdoor activities.  On any given day, regardless of rain, you'll see countless runners, walkers, joggers, mums with kids, doggie parents, and a ultimate frisbey competitors.  This is just one of the many lovely walks throughout the park...

 The prk is situated on something similar to a small penninsula.  This is one of the many views of the sound.  I wish I had a macrolense to better show you how this looked... 

Just another example of the view from Lincoln Park...

 ...another one...

I'm pretty sure this is a view of Alki beach from the park...

 If you're not scared of squirrles, you'll learn to fear them once you get to Lincoln Park...the squirrles will climb up your leg to get to whatever you'll offer them...

this is actually a photo of the only wading pool in all of Seattle.  During the summer of '09 I tried to find a pool I could go to and the only one was the one at Lincoln Park, which had severly limited hours.  This wading pool, which was never open during that time, was all of 6 inches deep...









I wish, again, I'd taken more photos.  I wish even more I had an appropriate lense and filter system for my camera to show these images correctly. 

Anyway, if you ever get the chance to visit Lincoln Park, you'd be wise to do so.

Honeymoon tips

Photo from here

I recently went to the wedding of a neighbor-friend; He'd been friends with my family, especially my brother, since he was about 10-12 and Sam (my brother) was about 8-10.  For the last 7 years or so we kept hearing about this girl named Christine and all of these wonderful things about it, and finally, they decided to tie the knot.  And I know this is overly sappy of me to say, but they are a wonderful couple and I wish them the best in life.

Now, to the post: At the reception as the Bride and Groom were going around to the tables and thanking everyone for attending, the Bride mentioned that they were going to Seattle for a few days after they camped in the Orcas Islands, and a few other locations...of coarse, they were speaking my language.  I mentioned that I'd lived in Seattle for 3 years and gave them a few ideas for places to visit (they had the clever idea of leaving little booklets at the tables to write tips and advice for a happy marriage in, so I left a few locations).

Of coarse, as soon as I get home, a million ideas came swimming into my mind.  Specifically, ideas for a newly married couple that had never been to Seattle that had a love for sea food and nature.

So here it is; the list I wish I had prepared for them.

1. Check out the Waterfall park in pioneer square.  Grab take-out from Salumie's and afterwards run around and check out the lovely architecture.  Be sure to check out the Seattle Aquarium, about a 15 minute walk along the "shore" from Pioneer square (at most).

2. Make a small half-day trip to University of Washington's Seattle campus.  Just pack a small snack and a filled water bottle and camera and take some lovely photos.  If you go around this time of year (spring/summer time), you'll find so many of the trees and flowers in blossom, it'll be impossible to have a bad photo.  After, head to University Way for some nice shopping and eating.

3. Seward park.  Actually, you may want to go here first to get your Nature on!  It's one of the few sections of Seattle that still has old-growth forest.  Ask locals about the Bald Eagle nest, and consider renting a Kayak or stand-board and exploring the banks a little more.  Again, no such thing as a bad photo op.

4. Do the Downtown tourist thing.  Check out Cherry Street Coffee House for some excellent coffee and Gravlox (Salmon Lox).  Afterwards, head along 1st ave to Pike place and spend a little time running around there.  Don't miss the french bakery or Piroshki Piroshki.  Afterwards, head to 3rd and pine and do a little of non-local shopping (yeah, you read me), or head on up to Capitol Hill and spend some time along Broadway admiring all the colorful characters you'll meet.

5. West Seattle.  Definably go now when the water taxi is still free to use to get to Alki beach (genius idea for tourists) and MAYBE dip your feet in the water (may want to check the water quality before you swim in it), afterwards head to Alaska Junction and have supper at the Indian restaurant and check out the Husky deli for some excellent ice cream.

I could come up with a million other ideas, but for the couple I have in mind, I wish I had given them this list...

Why Seattleites like to argue...

When I moved to Seattle, I was told a lot of things about the people.  One of the warnings I was given more frequently than others was that Seattleites love to argue...which is excellent, because I do too.

And when I moved to Seattle, I was astounded by how well versed and well informed a large population of the city (or at least the people I encountered) were regarding various topics; pollution, Puget sound, global warming, the G-20, fair trade verses free trade, so on and so forth.  And since I moved to Seattle, I've been under the distinct impression that Seattleites tend to be well educated or at least well informed and curious.

I was right.

According to Stats given by at seattle.gov (actual link here), the percentage of Seattlites with a BA or higher by age 25 is 56%, and the percentage of Seattlites who graduate from High School or achieve the equivalent of a high school diploma by age 25 is 95%.  These stats are the highest out of a total of 10 major US cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Boston!

Go Seattle!

Seattle Rules: Photo taking

This is a photo of my old apartment complex, right next to a 7-11.  Excellent for midnight munchies...

I was going through my photos of Seattle and slowly realized...I had not taken nearly enough.  And as I was looking back, I realized I had committed a few faux pas and had missed a lot of opportunities.

SO!  To continue the rule game...

Rule #1: Take lots AND LOTS of photos!  Even if you think you've taken too many of the same thing, if you have a digi cam, snap just a few more.

Rule #2: Invest in more camera batteries.  Do not ever turn your camera off, things happen quick everywhere, and so much so in Seattle where everyone is double-fisting cappuccinos.

Rule #3: Carry light!  Carry a wallet, coffee mug, cell, and camera and nothing else.  This is more of a general rule of thumb, but the idea behind it is you'll always be ready to snap a photo.

Rule #4: Snap the finer things.  Seattle has tons of sites to see, like any other city.  But don't concentrate on the big picture; the beauty of Seattle is in the details.  When you go to the library, don't snap photos of the whole building, but the weird book-ladder on the first floor book-return drop.  Or the written words in the floor.  Or the vaulted ceiling on the 3rd floor.

Rule #5: Try not to get any Seattlites in the photo.  If you take a photo of a public place and there are Seattlites in the photo, some of them might get offended that they're in it (I tried to take a photo of the wrong Starshmucks coffee place in Pike Place and was nearly mugged!).  If you can, try to pose the photo for a moment or two so people know to get out of the way.  Or try to time it when as few
people as possible will be in the photo.  And if someone poses...just snap anyway.

Rule #6: Be semi tasteful.  This ties in with the whole "Don't buy something with "sleepless in Seattle" written on it" thing.  People, when they come to Seattle, for some reason want to pose outside the first starshmucks, or pose with the Pike Place pig, or Pose with the Space Needle...this in and of itself is not tacky.  But, for all that is good and holy, do NOT pose with the gum wall...

Rule #7: Be more than willing to disregard any of these rules if they don't go with the flow of the moment...

Loving Hut Links

http://lovinghut.us/seattle/
    The Loving Hut Seattle location

http://lovinghut.us/
   Loving Hut's main site

http://www.yelp.com/biz/loving-hut-seattle  
     Loving Hut Seattle Yelp reviews

Loving Hut, Seattle

Yes, this is Vegan.  And it's probably DAMN good.  Photo from here.



It might be gathered by now that I'm vegetarian, and am rather fond of the Vegan/Vegetarian lifestyle.  So when I heard of Loving Hut in Seattle, I instantly assumed it would be everything I loved.

It was...an experience I didn't repeat on purpose.

First and foremost, the location was ok-ish; its in the middle of the back-section of the International District, and if you try to drive to it, you're going to pass it at least once.  Which is ok.  You might want to keep going.

Second, the food was pretty bad.  The Flavor was excellent...if it was thoroughly cooked and not cold in the center (Microwave, anyone?).  And the advertisement of "buy lunch, get free dessert" was not a bandaid on the wound of terrible food.

But, thirdly, and by far and away the most facinating and nauseating aspect of the whole thing, was the TV in the back playing a specific religious-propoganda channel. 

I wish I could quote verbatum some of the things the TV said, but if you've ever seen the episode of "The Simpsons" where the cult members are thanking The Leader for this glorious day...it was something along those lines.  I'm under the impression that the main center of worship is centered in Australia (based off of the accents on the TV), it's based off of the life, poetry, and teachings of someone from either Korea, Japan, or China (again, could be wrong), and that while a very peaceful faith, it's also a little creepy from the exposure on the TV.

I would love to know more about the faith mentioned there, so feel free to email me information on it or comment on it or something.

Loving Hut has locations in California as well, I think Fullerton of Costa Mesa included, and other people have had excellent culinary and cultural experiences at their local Loving Huts.  But that's them, and this is my blog.  (grrrrrrr....)

Anywho, Loving Hut...in my opinion, worth driving past.

For More information on Totoro

visit the following link...

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096283/

Photo from here.

Setting the scene straight...

photo from here.  And yes, I have a small amount of shame for my love of Totoro.



OK, I know the stereotype: Seattle is always raining.  And when I first visited and moved there, I anticipated many a-rainy walks home.

But it's a huge misconception; just ask a Seattlite,

You can find more information from here.  In fact, I'm ripping off most of my information from the previous site and the Wikipedia page on Seattle.

The fact is Seattle only recieved about 38 inches of rain a year.  Thats less than New York (47 IPY), Atlanta (50 IPY), Jacksonville FL (51 IPY), and New Orleans (64 IPY). 

The difference, if you ask any Seattleite, isn't how much rain, but how it's distributed.  Where as NY may have rain for 100 out of 365 days, Seattle will recieve a light drizzle for about 200 days a year, and then real rain on the occasion.

Oh this is just sad

http://www.peta.org/mediacenter/news-releases/PETA-Names-Seattle-One-of-the-Most-Vegetarian--and-Vegan-Friendly-Cities.aspx

According to this report (by PETA), "PETA Names Seattle One of the Most Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Cities"

Granted, I knew a lot more vegans and vegetarians in Seattle than I know here in CA.  And if PETA was talking about sheer population, I'd be inclined to agree.

But anyone who has tried to go Vegan/Vegetarian in Seattle and eat out regularly knows how hard it can be, especially if you're vegan.  Now, what's nice is that a couple of the Vietnamese restaurants I went to (Green Leaf, Lemon Grass) and my personal favorite Anapurna all had vegan/vegetarian options, and Indian/Ethiopian restaurants tend to have a vegetarian splatter you can order.  But no one wants to eat Indian, ethiopian, and vietnamese exclusivly for the rest of their life (well...).

I remember going out randomly into Seattle to find a new restaurant with my ex and eat, and we had to skip several because the only vegetarian options any of them had was a salad, hold the beef. 

This article leads me to two possible conclusions; either PETA didn't do their homework on Seattle, or the US is really lagging behind in the vegetarian culture.

More information on the Danny Woo Gardens

http://www.interimicda.org/index.php?/sustainable_communities/danny_woo_garden/

My Seattle: Danny Woo Gardens

 Here's more of my Seattle, featuring the largest P-patch in Seattle that I'm aware of, the Danny Woo Gardens.  As you can see to the left, there are regular tours of the gardens, which have existed since 1975.

 This central piece to the top of the gardens is called the Kobe Terrace Lantern, as the top section is called Kobe Terrace (I didn't know that...a year and a half next to the damn thing and I never knew that)...

This is my favorite view from the gardens.  Its towards the top, where there is a gentle split in the road.  Take the one farthest to the right and you'll come across  this little wooden ladder-bridge.  Take some time to take in the view.

This photo to the right is of the entrance to the little wooden bridge-ladder thing I mentioned above.  The section in the forefront is the entrance.

Some of the allotments.  If you enter the gardens from the bottom, and feel adventurous, try to stick as far to the right of the gardens as possible; they're not as well maintained and typically you'll find allotments that haven't been tended for years or you'll find the remains of a homeless camp. 

 Just thought these flowers were pretty...

This was the part that brought out the squeamish, vegetarian, animal-loving nerd out of me.  Chickens.  They're found in a tiny little coop at the bottom of the hill.

Most of the chickens are adopted as chicks.  Here they are!

Hey!  More Chickens!