Beach Drive Blog

Cruise Line Cleans Up

This contribution is from BDB neighbor Susan Dippery.

Just saw the following info on a travel blog that I subscribe to.  The Zaandam cruises between Seattle and Alaska during the summer.  It's nice to know that they are working to reduce the toll that the cruise ship industry takes on the environment.  Here's the scoop:

Last spring, Holland America's Zaandam was outfitted with a system designed to reduce pollution caused by engine emissions. The Krystallan scrubber, developed by a subsidiary of BP Marine, uses seawater to reduce sulfur dioxide and particle emissions from diesel exhaust.

Holland America launched the $1.5 million scrubber project with the assistance of several North American environmental regulatory agencies. The company is hopeful that the scrubber technology--if proven effective--can be expanded throughout the cruise industry and the larger maritime industry.

Initial results released by the Emissions Research and Testing Division of Environment Canada are encouraging. According to the agency's report, the Krystallon scrubber reduced sulphur dioxide emissions by 75% and cut particulate matter by 57%. Additional testing and measurements are planned.

For a list of upcoming cruises on the Zaandam, click here.

Happy Memorial Day

Scenes from Last Night's Sunset

Yesterday's weather and sunset was a real gift.   Mother Nature surprised us with a beautiful sunny day while we were expecting a cool grey weekend...I would not want to be a Weatherman in Seattle!    Will Mother Nature surprise us again today?   I sure hope so. 

Enjoying the Sunny Weather taking a Dip at Emma Schmitz

Message from Larry: Land Use Meeting Tonight

What: DPD meeting to hear public comments on project at 59th Ave and Stevens St

When: This Thursday, May 22nd, 6:30 PM

Where: Admiral Public Library, 42nd Ave and College St

Who: Alki residents interested in keeping our Alki Playfield out of the shadows.

Apologies for your late-arriving Beacon with a Page 3 story on the impact that the proposed new construction could have on our park and the safety of our children. Most members in 98116 Zip should get their Beacon today after a bag was lost in the mail for over a week. 

Most of our ACC members pay their dues in May, so take a look at your Beacon and send in your dues if your label says May08 above your name. Many thanks for your loyal support.

SW Precinct Public Safety Newsletter

Download southwest_precinct_public_safety_newsletter_may_21_2008.pdf

Click on the above link to get the most recent issue of the Southwest Precinct Public Safety Newsletter.

Mark your calendars for Seattle Night Out which will be August 5, 2008.   Last years event was a lot of fun--I know I really enjoyed getting to better know our neighbors.

West Seattle Blog has other "safety" event dates here.

Staring into the Bathroom Window

From my neighbor's roof top and into our upstairs bathroom.

This is the second day I've noticed this feathered fella.

Sound Scenes from Yesterday

You don't mind us driving where you're fishing do you?

Not as long as you don't mind us fishing above where you're diving.

Bob the Seal checks out the dude walking on water.

Smile kids, you're on Beach Drive Blog!

Sunset...from last night

We may not have a nice sunset to "ooh and ahhh" over tonight...so here's a photo from last night.

What are you doing Thursday night?

What: Alki Community Council Meeting

When: This Thursday, May 15th, 7:00-8:30 PM

Where: Alki Community Center, 58th and Stevens

Who: All Alki residents welcome. Bring a friend or neighbor.

Topics:

• Update on proposed multifamily zoning changes by Gary Ogden
• Update on site development at 59th and Stevens by Steve Cuddy

Questions? Contact Larry.