LESCHI
The Leschi Community Council begins its monthly meetings again in September. The topic for September is a hot one: the tree canopy and development: can we have both?
For all of its professed "greenness," Seattle has an appallingly low level of tree canopy: 18 percent. The average nationwide is closer to 30 percent.
Superintendent Tim Gallagher has said that even if Seattle Parks and Recreation planted all their land in trees, it would not raise the tree canopy to 30 percent; change needs to come from the rest of us - both private property owners and developers.
Guest speakers will be senior urban forester Mark Mead, Senior urban forester, city land-use planner Brennon Staley and City Arborist Nolan Rundquist from the Department of Transportation.
The new regulations about tree removal on private property will be part of the discussion. The meeting is Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 7:30 p.m. at the Central Area Senior Center, 500 30th Ave. S. (one block south of Jackson).
The annual wine tasting returns to the Central Area Senior Center on Sept. 25, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
This event is a collaboration between the Leschi Food Mart and the Leschi Community Council as a fund-raiser for the Central Area Senior Center. Leschi Mart owner Steve Shulman arranges for his wine merchants to supply 60-plus wines for tasting, and he offers healthy discounts for six- or 12-bottle purchases (mix-and-match).
An impressive array of appetizers keeps one from becoming lightheaded, but the scenic view from the patio might make one lightheaded.
The admission of $25 keeps the senior center open and thriving. This center serves seniors from the Montlake cut to the Rainier Valley.
The last outdoor music event at Flo Ware Park (28th Avenue South and South Jackson Street) takes place on Sept. 26, from noon to 6 p.m. The Leschi Community Council partners with the East Precinct to send summer out with a jam session that honors John Coltrane.
But there's more: hip-hop, R&B and salsa music - something for everyone.
East Precinct participation will include police chefs at the grill with hot dogs, veggie and halal dogs.
East Precinct Capt. Paul McDonagh has bravely volunteered for the dunk tank, even though our summer weather may be over by the end of this month.
Children's activities will include face painting, chess and basketball.
- Diane Snell
MADRONA
Everybody loves a good meal in Madrona in September. Diners have several opportunities to enjoy their food and contribute to the neighborhood at the same time.
Sept. 13 is the date for the Madrona Dining & Sipping Society (MD&SS) neighborhood picnic. This casual ad hoc group of Madrona neighbors meets every month to get to know each other and support the local restaurant scene.
The MD&SS summer picnic - in the grassy area across the street from St. Therese on 35th Avenue - is a stress-free alfresco way for families to be part of the MD&SS.
Armadillo Barbecue will cater the dinner, which includes a mouth-watering selection of meats and vegetarian barbecue staples, followed by dessert, to celebrate September birthdays and anniversaries. Tickets must be purchased in advance at glassybaby.
Everyone is welcome to set up blankets or tables and chairs starting at 5 p.m.; there will be a prize for the best picnic arrangement. Food will be served from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; please bring your own beverage.
Sept. 24 is the Winemakers Dinner at Dulces Latin Bistro. The winemakers from two small Washington wineries will be on hand to talk about their creations. Guests will experience them in the context of a special meal designed by chef Julie Guerrero.
Pomum Cellars, located in the Columbia River Valley, will present its wines made of fruit from the western Yakima Valley and Horse Heaven Hills.
Auclair Winery's Charlie Auclair will pour the first release of his stunning Red Mountain sauvignon blanc. Each of the dinner's five courses has been paired with the wines to celebrate their nuances. Call for 322-5453 to make a reservation.
As it has for the last several years, St. Clouds will open its doors for the annual Bread and Water Night in September. The restaurant will donate a significant portion of its earnings for the evening to the Friends of the Cedar River Watershed.
The mission of this organization is to keep our drinking water clean and healthy and safe for salmon and other fish that inhabit our river.
Most of the water for Madrona comes from the water collection site, which includes a world-class education center to remind us all how precious water is.
- Kimberley Herber[[In-content Ad]]
