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Today's Forecast
78º | Sunny | 2% chance of rain | Sunrise 5:12 a.m. | Sunset 9:03 p.m. | High tides 5:44 a.m. and 8:56 p.m. | Low tides 1:19 a.m. and 1:13 p.m.
 
 
A trip down memory lane
People crossing the crosswalk at Yesler Way in Pioneer Square, Seattle on a sunny day
Yesler Way is among some of the city’s oldest thoroughfares. | Photo by SEAtoday staff
The city of Seattle was incorporated on December 2, 1869, 16 years after the first plats were filed, creating the street grid downtown that we know to this day. Now that 150+ years have passed, the city and its streets are chock-full of vibrant history.

In this guide, we’re delving into the history of Seattle’s streets — specifically how they were named.

Pioneer Square

Seattle’s “original neighborhood” had a pivotal point in 1852 when the Denny Party crossed over from their Alki settlement and the lumber industry soon began setting down roots.

Alaskan Way — a title referencing the Klondike gold rush that launched from our waterfront. The city is proposing the honorary name Dzidzilalich (“little crossing-over place” in Lushootseed) to recognize the lands of the Puget Sound Coast Salish People.

Yesler Way — named after Henry Yesler, who established the region’s first steam sawmill.

A car drives through Cheasty Boulevard in South Seattle

Cheasty Boulevard takes you through some of Beacon Hill’s lush surroundings.

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Photo by Joe Mabel via WikiMedia Commons

Beacon Hill

Worth the steep strolls, the verdant South Seattle neighborhood boasts a robust dining scene and well-tended community greenspaces.

Cheasty Boulevard South — nope, not a Bond girl tribute, but rather named for E.C. Cheasty, a former police commissioner who helped establish Seattle’s boulevard system.

Roberto Maestas Festival Street — a block of South Lander Street near 16th Avenue South named after the social justice icon who co-founded El Centro de La Raza.

Reverend Dr. Samuel McKinney holds up a street sign honoring him with Seattle officials, including Bruce Harrell on the far right

Reverend McKinney (far left) had a street named in his honor in 2014 — the councilmember on the far right is now-Mayor Bruce Harrell.

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Photo via Seattle Department of Neighborhoods

Central District

This neighborhood lives up to its name as a bustling hub. It’s an area with extensive Black history and culture, from the Northwest African American Museum to the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute.

Rev. Dr. S. McKinney Avenue — a portion of 19th Avenue near East Madison Street named for the prominent civil rights leader. He convinced Martin Luther King, Jr. to speak at Garfield High School.

Pike Street — named after John Pike, a carpenter who helped build the University of Washington.
 
Asked
 
You have the opportunity to name a street in our city. What do you name the street after?
A. A loved one
B. My pet
C. My favorite athlete
D. Someone who’s made an impact in the community
E. Me, duh
 
Henry Art Gallery
 
Events
 

Wednesday, March 22
  • Big Bad Bubble STEAM Workshop | Wednesday, Mar. 22 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Seattle Children’s Museum, 305 Harrison St., Seattle | $12-$15 | The Seattle Children’s Theatre troupe leads activities inspired by “The Big Bad Bubble” book, which explores decision-making and confronting fears (for ages 3-5).
  • Eradicating Food Insecurities | Wednesday, Mar. 22 | 5 p.m. | Town Hall, 1119 Eighth Ave., Seattle | $10 | Nonprofit Solid Ground hosts a panel of urban farmers, food justice advocates, and other community leaders about how to build a resilient food system.
Thursday, March 23
  • Highland Park Elementary Skate Night | Thursday, Mar. 23 | 5-7 p.m. | Southgate Roller Rink, 9646 17th Ave. SW, Seattle | $5-$10 | Roll with the nearby school’s PTA and staff for a fundraising event.
  • Small Town Murder Podcast | Thursday, Mar. 23-Friday, Mar. 24 | 8 p.m. | Neptune Theatre, 1303 NE 45th St., Seattle | $39.50-$49.50 | Listen to takes on grisly tales from comedians James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman.
Friday, March 24
  • 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament: Regional | Friday, Mar. 24 | 4:30 p.m. | Climate Pledge Arena, 334 First Ave N., Seattle | $23-$63 | The Sweet 16 round starts today with surprising squads like Ole Miss in the mix.
  • “Between Two Knees” | Friday, Mar. 24-Sunday, Mar. 26 | Times vary | Seattle Rep - Bagley Wright Theatre, 155 Mercer St., Seattle | $30-$120 | Inter-tribal sketch comedy troupe The 1491s — known for the TV series “Reservation Dogs” — gives its own take on the history of Wounded Knee.
Saturday, March 25
  • Optimism Brewing Company’s 7th Anniversary Party | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 12-11:55 p.m. | Optimism Brewing Company, 1158 Broadway, Seattle | Free | Enjoy three new specialty beers at the Capitol Hill spot, giveaways, and Optimism’s first Drag Bingo with host Betty Wetter.
  • “As It is in Heaven” | Saturday, Mar. 25 | 2 p.m. | Taproot Theatre Company, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle | $25-$46 | This inter-generational drama about the women of a Shaker community tackles themes of faith, fear, and doubt.
Sunday
We have a calendar filled with events and activities you can plan for in advance. Click the button below to bookmark ideas for upcoming date nights, family outings, and time with friends.

Click here to have your event featured.
 
 
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Finance
 
Average retirement savings by age: Are you on track?
SmartAsset matches you with vetted financial advisors in your area.
SmartAsset matches you with vetted financial advisors in your area. | Photo by SmartAsset
Many Americans worry they’re not saving enough for retirement, and rightfully so. Do your current savings meet the recommended amount for people your age? Find out. 👀

The amount some people have saved may be shocking, but it’s not too late to seek advice. A financial advisor could help increase your returns and alleviate stress. Try this free tool to get matched with up to three vetted financial advisors serving your area.*
 
News Notes
 

Weather
  • 60º | Mostly sunny | 15% chance of rain
Sunrise + Sunset
  • Rise: 7:08 a.m.
  • Set: 7:24 p.m.
Edu
  • Seattle Public Schools (SPS) said this week that it wouldn’t close or consolidate any schools for the 2023-24 year. However, the district is still discussing ways to close a $131 million budget deficit. Officials said that could entail reducing spending, finding new revenue opportunities, or using reserve funds. (My Northwest)
Environment
  • Smell ya later. The Woodland Park Zoo’s popular Zoo Doo program is back, selling compostable poop from animals like hippos, zebras, and other wild animals that can give gardens a fresh glow. You can pre-order now to scoop some up in April.
Arts
  • Downtown’s historic Coliseum Theater building will soon bloom with creativity. Production company XO Seattle plans to turn 500 Pike St. into a temporary space for art installations, paintings, live music, fashion shows, and more. Expect the transformation by late July. (Seattle Times)
Open
  • Need some fancy ceramic bowls? Butter Home just moved from Capitol Hill’s Melrose Market to a new location in Chophouse Row. The housewares shop is known for locally made and vintage items. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily in the area between Marmite restaurant and Wide Eyed Wines.
Community
  • The South Seattle-based KD Hall Foundation will be holding a Women’s History Month conference for girls ages 11-17 on Saturday, March 25. Speakers at the “Rising Together” celebration include Seattle Storm community relations director and retired WNBA player Crystal Langhorne. RSVPs are open for the free event at 100 24th Ave. S. (South Seattle Emerald)
Closing
  • Local fried poultry franchise Bok a Bok Chicken closed its Burien location on Monday after five years in business. The four other outposts — located in White Center, Capitol Hill, U District, and Kirkland — will remain open. Bok a Bok mentioned a “beloved Seattle mainstay” that may take over the Burien space, but did not provide details.
Development
  • Seattle Public Schools and the city leaders announced that they’re looking to replace the 80-year-old Memorial Stadium with a new facility. The city has requested proposals from the private sector to design a sports, entertainment, and cultural venue with at least 8,000 seats and pedestrian connections through nearby Seattle Center. (Seattle Times)
Today Is
  • This evening marks the start of Ramadan, a month of reflection and fasting in Islam. Observe and learn more by attending a community iftar from local groups like Wasat. We wish you all a peaceful month, and we’ll see you on Eid al-Fitr starting Friday, April 21.
Pets
  • How fetching — Seattle’s most popular dog breed is the golden retriever, according to a recent analysis by American Kennel Club. Labrador retrievers came in second place, while the French bulldog, Pembroke welsh corgi, and havanese rounded out the top five. (Seattle Times)
Eat
  • Totally eggsellent — Othello restaurant Bang Bang Kitchen has brought its much-coveted brunch menu back after a three-year hiatus. The New Mexican spot is known for its plump breakfast burritos, stuffed sopapillas, and cornbread pancakes that are best washed down with one of Bang Bang’s killer bloody marys.
Transit
Seasonal
 
Arts
 
Hands-on experience
A lighted, digital floor with a young girl on the left manipulating the shapes with her hand.
Why yes — you can touch the art at the WNDR Museum without getting in trouble. | Photo via WNDR Museum
Seeing is believing — WNDR Museum has brought its trippy, eye-catching, interactive art experience to downtown Seattle as a permanent fixture.

The 13,000-sqft space at 904 Alaskan Way opens today, featuring works from international artists, collectives, designers, and other creative mad scientists. Here, guests can engage with 20+ exhibits that meld unique visions with tech.

Among the displays is a virtual reality installation created by the manga-influenced OseanWorld and a translucent greenhouse from flora&faunavisions, complete with a digitized storm. Also look out for:
  • Hyper mirror | Combines an infinity mirror effect with a digital screen
  • Light floor | Lying on pressure sensors? Seems kinda soothing
  • Starry pumpkin | A fiberglass gourd by legendary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama
The year-round attraction is open daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Prices start at $32 for adults and $22 for children. Look for possible new additions to the museum throughout 2023.
 
The Wrap
 
Today’s Edition By:
Gabe
From the Editor
Who’s gotten into the exciting and unpredictable NCAA Women’s Division I Tournament? This town will be hopping when it comes to Climate Pledge Arena this weekend.
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