Turkey Trot 2012

If you are looking for something to do in Seattle for Thanksgiving, bring the family out for the annual Turkey Trot.  Costumes are encouraged in this 5k walk/jog event that is done every year on beautiful Seaview Avenue in Ballard.  Signup fees to register are as follows:  Adults $30, and children (10 and under) $15.  All money raised is donated to the Ballard Food Bank to help those in need.

Turkey Trot started in 2007 as a group of friends looking to enjoy a morning jog on Thanksgiving Day.  But every year, the assembly grew significantly and now thousands of families come out and enjoy the fresh, crisp air of the Seattle coast.  All those who register will receive a “Turkey Trot 2012″ t-shirt (sizes vary from Men’s, Women’s and kids).

The event takes place on November 22 at 9AM!  Volunteers are always needed!  http://www.seattleturkeytrot.org/about

 

Dine Around Seattle

It is time for, yet again, the biannual “Dine Around Seattle” event that invites residents to come out and support local business and restaurants around our great city.  From November 4th-29th, there will be a wide selection of great deals and discounts at various locations around Seattle.  Most restaurants are offering “3-Course Dinners for just $30″ and some are even including “3-Course Lunches for $15.”  Come out and enjoy exclusive deals and seasonal dishes from the top chefs every Sunday through Thursday throughout November.

The event is put on by the Seattle Good Business Network.  They are in their eleventh year of hosting by stressing the strengthening of our community through the support of local businesses.  One of the top-rated businesses is located in our very own, Magnolia, is that of the Palisade’s Waterfront Restaurant.

Located in the heart of the Elliott Bay Marina, the Palisade, displays cultivating views of the water and sea-craft that port there.   Even with beautiful outdoor views, there is still an aesthetically-pleasing interior that gives off a soothing feeling to its visitors.  First, it is hard to miss the large water tank, near the entry, that keeps the Dungeness crab extremely fresh.  Secondly, they have a saltwater pond, filled with live Steelhead, that guests are able to walk over with a bridge conveniently located in the center of the restaurant.  Lastly, they have a mixed variety of seafood, steak and sushi that can meet expectations as restaurant-goers can taste the time and effort put into each dish.

Price Drop on Magnolia Townhome: $382,000

It is difficult to find this low of a price point in this neighborhood of Seattle!  This three-level townhouse is available in the beautiful neighborhood of Magnolia.  This area is known for its family-friendly environments and beautiful views of Puget Sound.  Only minutes from downtown, this three bedroom townhome is in a prime location.

One of its unique features is how every bedroom contains its own bathroom and there is also an extra powder room on the main floor.  Also, the kitchen is completely updated with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and cherry cabinetry.

The backyard is completely fenced off and offers a cozy patio.  It is a perfect area to start a garden as it receives great sun exposure.  There is an abundance of street-parking around the unit, not to mention the one-car garage that is attached.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity.  If you are interested in viewing this unit or getting more information, please visit www.ewingandclark.com.

Mixed Reviews on New Inspection Regulations

The city of Seattle has recently approved a program that would require an inspection on all rental property.  Landlords would be required to register their properties with the city, which allows them to keep track of all rental properties in the county.  The program would begin in 2014 and has received mixed reviews from the community.

One aspect that has received some buzz is that of the landlords having to pay for this mandatory inspection.  There is a large discrepancy between landlords who are more hands-on and take better care of their properties compared to those who don’t.  Those that take pride in their properties feel they are getting punished even though they are doing everything possible to make their rental livable and safe.

Another issue at hand is that of the inspection fees.  Tenants are worried that the landlord is going to pass off the inspections costs onto them.  This has come as some concern as Seattle’s rental prices are already high.  With so many losing their homes to foreclosures and short sales, this inspection fee may be yet another cost for those looking to rent in the Seattle area.

Regardless of the complaints, the inspection program has been passed by the city and will take effect in 2014.  Landlords need to take the necessary precautions to make sure their property is up to code.  Whether that is being more involved or spending on improvements, landlords should be aware of hefty fines if they do not pass the inspection.    With the rental market at an all-time high here in Seattle, there may be more regulations coming soon.

Seattle Seahawks Big Win

The Seahawks entered yesterday’s game, as underdogs, against the Dallas Cowboys.  They left the field as victors over the group otherwise known as “America’s Team.”

The Cowboys had just come off of a huge victory over the reigning Superbowl champions, the New York Giants.  Tony Romo led the offensive charge with three touchdown passes and only one interception.  The Cowboy’s defense effectively shutdown the powerful offensive attack of the Giants, allowing only one TD pass from Eli Manning and mediocre yardage from their running game.  But unlike the Giants, the Seahawks came prepared for their match up against the Cowboys in week 2.

The Seahawks came out guns blazing as their defense sparked a 10-0 jumpstart after a blocked punt was returned to the house.  Their defense continued to trifle all of the Cowboy’s offensive opportunities and frustrated their leader, Tony Romo.

In the second half, it was all about the Seahawks rookie quarterback, Russell Wilson and running back, Marshawn Lynch.  This dynamic duo effectively managed the clock by moving the chains down after down.  Russell calmly threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to tight end, Anthony McCoy, in the third quarter.  While Lynch finished out his 122-yard day with a touchdown in the middle of the fourth quarter to seal the victory.

The Cowboys continue to disappoint as they have the talent to become a top-level team, but they proceed to have these unexplainable losses.  Whatever the case, they were not in sync on any level yesterday and the Seahawks took advantage.  Seahawk fans beware, their week 3 match up could be their toughest one yet, as they are set to face the Green Bay Packers.

Greek Cuisine in Magnolia

If you are looking for Greek cuisine in Magnolia, Nikos Gyros is the place.  Located at 2231 32nd Ave W, this restaurant is minutes away from the Magnolia Bluff.  It’s best to attend on a sunny day, order to go and take in the beautiful scenery on one of the benches on Magnolia Blvd.

This restaurant is known for its cost-effective meals for all ages.  They are known for the family environment and strong sense of community, but most of all their food.  Favorites include the Greek fries, the chicken souvlaki, pita bread, and of course the original gyros.

Their portions are large, so if you are considering sharing, feel free. The friendly staff makes for an enjoyable experience for anyone.  They are a family-owned business with a wide selection of fresh menu items.

If you are looking for a casual evening out while staying within your budget, Nikos Gyros in Magnolia is a great choice. Don’t forget to try the Greek fries, a little zest and feta will make you come back again!

2 People Shot in Discovery Park

Many people venture to Discovery Park, one of Seattle’s biggest tourist destinations, to catch a view of the city, or go for an afternoon hike in the Magnolia neighborhood park. But last Thursday evening, along with the tragedy of the Batman Premiere shooting in Aurora, CO, Discovery Park had another shooting occur that same evening, injuring a 16 year old boy, and a 17 year old girl.

According to the Seattle Times, police made a statement claiming the boys friend’s took him to the hospital to be treated for an arm injury, and the girl didn’t know she had been shot until she got home and realized her leg was bleeding. Police are on the lookout for three teenage boys who are said to be responsible for the boy’s injury, and apparently the boy knows who the shooter is. Gang investigators are looking into finding those responsible, who are at large in Seattle.

Mother’s Day is Right Around the Corner: Best Gift Ideas!

Do you find yourself stumped every year, scrambling around to try and find the perfect gift for your Mother, who seems to already have everything you can imagine? Do you wind up getting something safe and uninspiring year after year, resorting to a 99 cent card and hand written poem you have stored on your computer’s hard drive?  I can safely assume we’ve all been guilty at one point in time of last minute shopping when we’re down to the wire and wind up with an impulse buy, maybe something that you yourself would enjoy a little more than Mom. This year it might be time to plan a week or two ahead, and get your Mother something unexpected. Here is a list of things you might find inspiring to get for her this Mother’s Day weekend:

1. Is she a fabulous cook? Whether she needs it or not, a cooking class from Seattle Hipcooks in South Lake Union might be the perfect treat.

2. Does your mom love jewelry and recycling? why not get her a recycled sterling silver necklace from Uncommon Goods.

3. Is she a tech whiz? If your mom has had her new Ipad 3 longer than you have, get her a new Mother’s Day inspired Ipad case!

4. Is she hopelessly in Love with Seattle? Get her something personally homemade from Etsy!

5. Is she remodeling? The new West Elm in Seattle is full of inspiring decor she’ll love, or grab her a giftcard.

6. Every Mom appreciates a good musical; take her to the theatre! The 5th Avenue’s summer schedule is out now.

7. Does she have a green thumb? Whether she does or not lend her a hand! Help her garden grow by getting her the best fragrant plants in her garden.

8. Still stumped…check her pinterest account and see what she’s pinning these days, or if she has a wishlist board waiting for you!

9. Or if you’re on a budget, here is a list of free Mother’s Day activities from CBS that you can take her to and enjoy a day just the two of you.

Community Pool Closing September 18th

The Mounger Pool in Magnolia is staying open an extra week this month, keeping your kids entertained until Sunday, the 18th.  The public pool, at 2535 32nd Avenue West, is open daily for a number of activities including lessons, play, and water exercise.  For more information on Mounger and too see a full schedule, please visit their page at seattle.gov.

Village Auto Show Happening This Weekend

The 7th annual Magnolia Village Auto Show is happening this coming Saturday, August 20th between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.  Residents and former residents will line their cars along West McGraw between 32nd and 34th Streets for your admiration.  The show is free and the weather forecast is looking up, so come and see a collection of vintage cars that are sure to impress any car enthusiast.  Planners predict to see over 60 cars this year.  For more information, please visit the official website.