Author: Carl Setzer

Lesser Seattle and Other Thoughts

Carl Setzer

I grew up reading Emmett Watson (a key part of Seattle’s literary history), and decided to revisit some of his writings. Currently, I’m working my way through Emmett Watson: “My Life In Print” (affiliate link). This book has a whole section about his, somewhat tongue-in-cheek writings about a somewhat fictional organization: the Society for Lesser Seattle.

The ideology of this came as a counter to the relentless boosterism for growing Seattle. If you loved the city, imagine how annoying it would be to continue to hear how to “fix” what you cherish.

Now, to be fair, the global city that Seattle is today resulted from that boosterism. But there were elements of that growth mindset that were truly mindless. Growth for growth’s sake is not wise or healthy, in my view.

Change is a part of life. It’s crucial to evolve. However, I find deep value in spending time assessing:

  • Who you are
  • Who you want to become
  • Then evaluate the opportunities which present themselves

All three are important. I can’t imagine anything more sad than “evolving” into someone you hate.

The same is true for cities, and any type of community.

“Know thyself”, a line I’ve heard bantered forth occasionally, seems apt here.

With communities, a challenge: dealing with divergent answers of those questions. Democracy can get ugly at times.

Let’s explore all of this, shall we?

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What a lovely day, thunderstorms and all 

Carl Setzer

Today’s weather was certainly quirky. Earlier in the afternoon, it was nice enough in Marysville to get a 20 minute walk in. 

Not too much later the thunderstorm rolled through. My son and I planned to hit the gym, but the weather knocked the power out there. So, we went out for a little ride. 

Now, it had cleared up as we were gearing up. But it started to pour as we headed out. We opted to keep going. It was my son’s first real rain ride. 

I’ve become a fair weathered cyclist over the years. So it was nice to get out and get wet on the road. I love riding so, and need to get back in the saddle more. 

I want to push my fitness higher again. Not get my fitness back. Rather, adapt and create a new life, with a solid center of fitness. 

Besides riding, I want to get into kayaking. I’ve a fair amount of experience…and I want more. 

Also, during the winter I want to get deeper into cross-country skiing. That’s one I really miss. 

Congrats to the good folks at Canlis on it’s James Beard Award

Carl Setzer

This is fun news for Seattle foodies: Canlis Takes Home Its First James Beard Award. (Seattle Met Magazine)

I’ve not dined at good ol’ Canlis. Mainly, I’m a northend guy, and making my way down there is a bit challenging. And then there’s the price tag…
Anyway, all the best to good folks at Canlis!

 

 

May is Muppets Month in Seattle!

Carl Setzer
  • First off, on May 13th, the Seattle Public Library will host Jim Henson Con at the Central Library. Running from 10 am to 5 pm, this all ages event will have such activities as crafts, costumes, and, my favorite, a Labyrinth Sing-Along!
  • Then starting on May 20, MoPOP will be hosting The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited. Growing up under the influence of muppets, this exhibit thrills me.

It’s May Day: Expect Wacky Traffic In Seattle Today

Carl Setzer

Came across this article and thought it worth sharing, even though I won’t be going into the city and sharing in the misery.

onthemove.seattle.gov – Sue Romero – Apr 27, 10:17 AM

SDOT advises travelers that on Monday, May 1, a number of demonstrations and rallies are expected to significantly impact traffic around the city throughout the day. Please plan ahead for delays due to larger than normal crowds along demonstration…

Moving Day

Carl Setzer

Moving day 

Changes arrived

Blending excitement 

Within sadness 

Transitions leave some 

Behind while 

Potential is birthed 

Southbound I-5 Silver Lake rest area to close Wednesday, April 26

Carl Setzer

You know that little rest area on I5 south, right by the truck scales south of Everett Mall? If you don’t, well, fret not…I know many people who’ve lived here their whole lives who are oblivious to it’s existence. I’ve stopped there a handful of times. But, since most of my driving in this area is commuting, I usually don’t have need.

Anyway, it’s good that it’s there, and I’m glad the state is keeping it up.

Southbound Interstate 5 travelers should plan ahead if they wish to use the rest area between Marysville and Olympia.

Contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will close the southbound I-5 Silver Lake rest area just south of Everett from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 26, for maintenance work to the area’s RV dump station. This closure may roll over to the next day if work cannot be completed in the scheduled time.

Other rest areas

Drivers have other rest areas on southbound I-5 to choose from, including:

  • The Smokey Point rest area is located 19.5 miles south of Mount Vernon and offers restrooms, telephones, drinking water, vending machines, visitor information, RV dump station and picnic areas.
  • The Maytown rest area is located approximately 12 miles south of Olympia. Services include restrooms, telephones, drinking water, vending machines, visitor information, and picnic areas.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day This Saturday

Carl Setzer

Perhaps you, like me, has a medicine cabinet filled with expired medications you have had no idea what to do with. The garbage, as well as the toilet, we know are terrible.

So, here’s a solution: the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day this Saturday, April 29th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

In south Snohomish County, we can head to Mountlake Terrace’s police department located at 5906 232nd St SW, Mountlake Terrace.

If you don’t live close to Terrace, this link will help you find a closer participating location.