With continued dry weather and concerns about increasing wildfire danger across the region and on the peninsula, Clallam County Fire District 3 is continuing to remind residents that a total ban on any outdoor burning is in effect.  The ban applies to all outdoor burning except recreational fires unless further banned by extreme weather conditions. As a result, Fire District 3 officials say they have been fielding a lot of calls from residents regarding the interpretation of the burn ban rules.  Reaching out to County Fire Marshall George Baily for clarification, they have been advised self-contained Traeger style smokers are permitted, but briquette and wood bar-b-ques are not, Only propone BBQs are allowed.  Permitted propane fire pits are also allowed. The Fire Marshall also says western Clallam County – which is anywhere west of the Elwha River – is currently considered to be at the High Fire Danger level. The East side of Clallam County is now listed at Extreme High Fire Danger.  So, even if using one of those propane BBQs or fire pits, the fire district is reminding residents to be extra careful.

In the meantime, wildfire smoke is continuing to plague areas around western Washington. Forecasters say widespread haze is expected to continue across our region today through tomorrow.

Hello! This rhododendron is getting yellow leaves with brown edges.  Should I remove those leaves, and how should I treat this? I water regularly, it gets lots of afternoon sun and the soil may not be draining that well. We recently dug up all the grass and are starting a garden in this area.  This rhodie was planted last fall.  Also should the wood chips go right up to the plant or do I need to leave some space around it ? Thank you!  Nora

The featured speaker will be the renowned garden guru, Ciscoe  Morris, and he’ll speak at 1PM. There will be a display of historical yearbooks, The Log Cabin will be open for tours and The Cemetery will be open for viewing. Members of the Spinners and Weavers Guild will be giving demonstrations of their craft and there will also be a blacksmith.

Food and refreshments will be available.

More information is available online at: 

WWW.SEQUIM PRAIRIE GARDEN CLUB.ORG.

“The one thing that I heard from most of at least contractors, sub-contractors who worked on this building said ‘This is the most complex building I have ever worked on.  I probably heard that once or twice a day.  And so we know that this is a contemporary, modern, complex building that is to fulfill the needs of Port Angeles as we move to the future.”

The estimated $50 million dollar state-of-the-art 500 seat project at Oak and Front Streets is being hailed as the premier performing arts venue on the Peninsula.  Saturday’s day of celebration and dedication came after long  pandemic related pauses, delays and challenges.     

Cameron Irwin of LMN architect is with the firm that designed the building.

“Very quickly we discovered that it was more than just an art center.  It had to become a space that’s for gathering and for laughter and crying and celebration. But today it has to be a space that – the new building has to be a building that marks the turning point in Port Angeles’ history, this industrious hard-working past and turning it into the cultural destination of the North Peninsula.”

Board President Brooke Taylor said he’s always believed that mission driven non-profits are what drives communities and improves the quality of life for everyone. Field Arts is the ultimate mission driven non-profit checking all the boxes that brings people together and strengthens the community.

“This is without a doubt the most ambitious non-profit project ever undertaken on the Olympic Peninsula. Amen.  So I’m gonna say this. And we have one former president who knows now you have to be careful  about saying this prematurely. But I’m gonna declare “Mission Accomplished.”

The day of celebration was highlighted by the magical dancing of Bandaloop, an aerial troupe suspended off the north wall of the center dancing to choreographed music with three performances dazzling and electrifying hundreds who gathered on the lawn. From here, they will be heading off to England and will dance off the exterior of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.

The GRAND OPENING is here!

Field Arts & Events Hall welcomes Grammy-winning vocalist and pianist Diane Schuur, headlining the Grand Opening Celebration. Tickets for her  matinee performance today are available online at Field Hall Events (dot) ORG.

As part of her 70th birthday tour, Schuur has curated a special music program that reflects her life and career, featuring a selection of songs from her vast catalog.

In addition to Diane Schuur's performances, the Grand Opening Celebration at Field Arts & Events Hall will feature other exceptional headliners, including the Grammy-winning quintet Ranky Tanky and “Unit Souzou” [PRON: “So-Zoh”], a mesmerizing fusion of Japanese Taiko [PRON: “Ti-Koh”] drumming and dance. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy free vertical dance performances by BANDALOOP and local performers on the outdoor community stage.

Ticket information and the complete schedule for the Grand Opening Celebration can be found online at www.FieldHallEvents.ORG. 

Dear Ciscoe, Could you please identify this beautiful visitor to my garden?I have lived in the greater Seattle are my entire 71 year life and enjoyed your gardening shows & tips! Thank you in advance for your help.

Very gratefully yours,  Melaine  

If I pluck my solitary ripe red tomato, would the remaining green tomatoes be more likely to thrive and flourish?

Ooh La La!   Bill in Gig Harbor, Washington