Port Townsend, WA

Port Townsend Changes Rules on "McMansions"

The Port Townsend City Council is working on a resolution that would limit the size of homes according to the lot size and floor -area ratio. The idea is to prevent "McMansions" . A 5000 sq. ft. lot would be limited to a 2500 sq. ft. residence, or 50% floor-area ratio. A 14,200 sq. ft. lot would be limited to 38.5% or a maximum of 5500 sq. ft.

The new ordinace would increase the number of historic structures subject to design review and protected from demolition. As of now, only commercial properties have been under this rule. Properties currently zoned R-lll will be changed to R-ll.

This is a double edged sword! The people who want to keep Port Townsend a small rural seaport village are in control. I do love the village atmosphere and charm of Port Townsend, but it is not practical to deny property owners the right to use their property as they see fit to the highest and best use. Not to mention new development and tax revenue. Stay tuned for the outcome.

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This weekend in Port Townsend, July 24,25 & 26th. What a great venue for some outstanding music! Presented by Centrum as the culmination of a weeklong workshop for about 500 students of all ages, and experience. Some are young teens, and some are experienced performers coming to hone their craft with some great musicians from around the world.

This will be the 10th year I have attended and I think around 30 years for Centrum. Main stage shows are in the McCurdy Pavilion at Fort Worden, Friday and Saturday nights with an afternoon concert on the grass on Saturday. The performers then will be in 8-10 club venues in Port Townsend, later in the evening. For $20 you get a ticket to all clubs and you can wander from one to another until the wee hours. There will also be 2 venues for those under 21.

Musicians playing for diners at Dream City Cafe in Port Townsend

The Artistic Director is John Clayton, who always gives a great perfomance on the big stage as well as in the clubs. This year he will be leading the Big Band Concert , and the Clayton Brothers Group.

For a complete list of performances and ticket information go to: www.centrum.org/jazz

Bud Shankand Big Band 2002

Jazz Festival / McCurdy Pavillion 2002

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Port Townsend Boat Haven

Located in central Port Townsend on the waterfront, this is a hub of activity full of interesting ships, marine related businesses, a few funky restaurants and a brewery. There is also a popular walking trail that is part of the Larry Scott Trail that goes past the mill and for many miles into Cape George.

Some very large and expensive ships are built, repaired, or restored at the Port Townsend Boat Haven. There are many marine related businesses, large and small. Used boat equipment, a full marina, laundromat, bathrooms and Coast Guard nearby.

Shop for used boat equipment Port Townsend Brewery

Blue Moose Cafe

Port Townsend is a haven for artists, craftsmen,and writers. You can practice your craft, take lessons, or just enjoy the work of others.

The Gallery Walk is a favorite of local residents and visitors alike. Held the first Saturday evening of every month from 5:30 pm 5to 8 pm, it is sponsored by the many galleries and venues and artisans in Port Townsend. You just arrive downtown and start your tour. This is a very short and easy walk, about 2 blocks along the downtown waterfront of the Historic District. The galleries showcase local artists and offer refreshments, information and special displays. It is not unusal to see watercolors by your favorite podiatrist, or sculpture offered by your next door neighbor.

Some regular participants include:

Gallery 9, Port Townsend Art Gallery, Williams Gallery, Earthenworks Gallery, Artisans on Taylor, Max Grover Gallery.

Port Townsend has a great Whale Watching tour from April through September, which leaves from Point Hudson aboard the "Redhead". This is a trip you do not want to miss!

The orcas live in pods and travel around the San Juan Islands in their quest for salmon, which is the mainstay of their diet. The naturalists in the area have studied these whales for years, know their numbers, give them names and recognize them by their dorsal fins and other markings. There are 3 pods in this area and are named by letters, the only one I can remember is J Pod. Unfortunately they appear to be dwindling in numbers and the crew is very careful to disturb them as little as possible. Sightings are guaranteed and usually plentiful as you can tell from my photos.

Naturalists study the pod and keep track of their numbers by the markings on the dorsal fins.

Dorsal fin Seals on the island

Friday Harbor on San Juan Island

The "Redhead" departs early morning, travels across the channel and heads to Friday Harbor, a wonderful destination in itself. There is a 2 hour stop for lunch and a leisurly stroll around the small town.

Along the way you see the many orcas, porpoises which play with the boat and an island where there are seals sunning themselves on the beach. There are also sightings of river otters, puffins and eagles. Also seen is the Humpback Whale and the Grey Whale.

The "Redhead" moored at Point Hudson, in Port Townsend

The "Redhead" is a very comfortable craft, with comfortable seating at individual tables, a very friendly and accommodating crew, and a great snack bar. For sailing schedule:

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