The City of Des Moines is starting a Youth Sailing Program that will offer sailing experiences to boys and girls ages 11 to 18, with the first session beginning Monday, Aug. 2nd.

The program will offer on-the-water sailing instruction in 14-foot sailboats and dockside learning activities. The sessions will be held at the Des Moines Marina and are designed for kids with little or no sailing experience.

The course will cover safety on the water, sailing basics, sailboat nomenclature, wind awareness, rigging, rules of the road, and boating etiquette. Instructors in power boats will accompany the students in the boats while they are on the water.

The fee for a one-week session is $130 and some scholarships are available. Registration forms are available at the City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 South 220th Street in Des Moines. The Phone number is 206-870-6527.

Students need sneakers, appropriate clothing and a Coast Guard approved life jacket, preferably the kayak type. Students will also be required to take a float test on the first day of class. The test will be conducted at Mount Rainier Pool.

Session dates are:

• Session 1: August 2 – 6 Start time 1:00 pm
• Session 2: August 9 – 13 Start time 1:00 pm
• Session 3: August 16 – 20 Start time 5:00 pm
• Session 4: August 23 – 27 Start Time 1:00 pm

To download registration documents, click here (Word .doc file), or call Des Moines Parks at (206) 870-6527.

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The National Weather Service issued a “Heat Advisory” for the northwest on Tuesday (July 6), as the summer season gets “switched on,” with temps predicted to hit highs around 90 degrees or so toward the end of the week.

First, the weather service’s advisory in its full glory:

Statement as of 3:23 PM PDT on July 06, 2010

… The first stretch of hot weather is expected across western Washington this week…

The cool and moist onshore flow pattern which dominated western Washington weather through the Fourth of July has come to an end this week… as a strong upper level ridge and offshore develop over the area. Offshore flow will increase tonight and Wednesday helping maximum temperatures to rise into the 80s to mid 90s the next few days.

Latest computer models indicate that the upper level ridge will weaken this weekend and onshore flow will return. This is the more typical onshore flow we see during the Summer that helps to moderate the warmest weather patterns. Although temperatures will cool down a little this weekend… they will remain warmer than normal.

Temperatures in the 80s to mid 90s can cause some heat related health problems even in western Washington. As temperatures climb into the 90s… sunstroke… heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity. This is especially true for the elderly. Some precautions that will reduce the risk of heat related illness include but are not limited to… reducing strenuous activity… wear lightweight and light colored clothing… and drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic fluids. Also… never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles during hot weather.

***The following are the record high temperatures and year of occurrence for select locations. Refer to the forecast for the expected high temperatures on these dates.***

Wednesday /Thursday /Friday

Sea-tac 88 (1953) 87 (1985,52) 91 (1985)

Olympia 95 (1953) 94 (1952) 95 (1985)

Bellingham 88 (1953) 85 (1952) 85 (1979,52)

Quillayute 80 (1996) 82 (1968) 85 (2007)

Hoquium 81 (1996) 87 (1956) 83 (2002)

Sandpoint 82 (1996) 82 (2006) 81 (2003)

And now, some ways to beat the heat in Des Moines, along with some common sense tips:

1. If you don’t have air conditioning, find a cool place to hang out. Beaches are almost always cooler (and FREE), plus dipping your toes in Puget Sound will most definitely cool you off; all King County Library branches have air conditioning, as does the Senior Center and numerous other publicly-accessible buildings around the area.

2. Red Cross Safety Tips:

With temperatures expected to rise this week, the American Red Cross encourages individuals and families to take the necessary precautions. The very young and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the heat, so it is important that families and friends check on them regularly.People with chronic health issues are also at greater risk and need to take special care to stay healthy in the heat.

Prevent Heat-Related Illness:

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing (light colors reflect away some of the sun’s energy) and plenty of sunscreen. Wear a hat or use an umbrella to help shield you from the sun.
• Carry water or juice and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Make sure to check on youth and elderly to make sure they have enough fluids.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
• Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do something physically demanding, try to do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m. Take regular breaks to cool off.
• Stay indoors as much as possible.
• Be vigilant about water safety if headed to a pool or beach. Never leave a child unattended near water and keep lifesaving gear handy.
• Watch for signs of life-threatening heat stroke. The person’s temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.
• Signals of heat stroke include hot, red, and usually dry skin, changes in consciousness, rapid, weak pulse and rapid, shallow breathing.
• If you or someone you know experience symptoms, call 9-1-1 or your local EMS number. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the body by wrapping wet sheets around the body and fan it. If you have ice packs or cold packs, place them on each of the victim’s wrists and ankles, in the armpits and on the neck to cool the large blood vessels. Watch for signals of breathing problems and make sure the airway is clear. Keep the person lying down.
• Don’t forget to protect your pets.
• Limit exercise to the coolest part of the day, typically early in the morning. Even in the coolest part of the day, watch for signs of trouble. Glassy eyes and frantic panting indicate a dog needs help.
• Make sure your pet has constant access to shade and an endless supply of cool, clean water.
• Never leave a pet in a car – even for a few minutes.
• Be vigilant for signs of heat stroke, which is deadly for pets. Symptoms include sluggish and non-responsive demeanor, bright red and/or dry tongue and gums, vomiting or diarrhea and/or unusual breathing patter, heavy panting, or high heart rate. If your pet displays these symptoms, get emergency medical attention.

Des Moines Parks & Recreation is running a new baseball camp this summer called the South Sound Diamond Skills Camp, which is aimed at helping local ballplayers.

The lead instructor is a former UW Husky and current Northwest Regional Supervisor for the Milwaukee Brewers, Brandon Newell. Brandon is sought-after on the camp circuit, providing instruction from here to Calgary.

Darren Rawie, from Mt. Rainier High, will also be involved.

Here’s some text from the city’s website on the camp’s philosophy:

Professional level skill development at recreation prices is the goal at South Sound Diamond Skills Camp. Campers will be surrounded by enthusiastic coaches, passionate about teaching ballplayers skills and love for America’s Pastime. Camp is structured around individual skills improvement as well as game situations and contests like Camp Olympics. Our high energy coaching staff boasts two professional scouts, champion coaches and instructors that have mentored next level talent. But, above all, the staff is excited to bring their expertise to the South Sound to teach another generation about what makes baseball a lifelong love. Parents can expect their young ballplayers to learn how to perform skills and drills the right way with coaches that make baseball fun.

Pricing & Registration:

Days & Dates:

• Mon-Thurs, July 26-29, 2010

Times:

• 7-11U/9am-12pm
• 12-15U/1pm-4pm

Location:

• The Yard at Mt. Rainier High School, 22450 19th Ave S., Des Moines, WA 98198

Pricing:

• $150/Des Moines resident
• $170/Non resident

Group Rates:

• $20 off each registration with a group of 5 or more
• $40 off each registration with a group of 10 or more

Group rates are a great way to get first rate instruction for your team or league! See registration form for details.

Information:

• Registration Form
• Camp Flyer

For more information, check out www.desmoineswa.gov/diamondcamp.

by Brenda Anders

It is that time of year again – time to start planning for our community summer events.

As you may or may not know, the current economic situation and major construction projects within the city of Des Moines have dictated that many events be cancelled this year, including:

• Classic Car and Wooden Boat Show
• Italian Concourse Car Show
• Waterland 5k Run
• Waterland 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

The good news is that there will still be many fun things to do in Des Moines this summer. There are many groups busily planning events for you and your families to enjoy, including:

• Fireworks over Des Moines! Brooks Powell / Powell Homes is dedicated to making this event happen and is seeking additional funds to privately cover the costs of city staffing needs
• The Des Moines Farmers Market, every Saturday (June 5-October 30), south end of the marina
• Waterland Music Series, dates and times TBD, Des Moines Arts Commission
• Des Moines Parks and Recreation’s Camp Khaos (Kids Having An Outrageous Summer), new location due to construction, Des Moines Field House Historic grandstand and ball field rededication, Des Moines Field House
• Missoula Children’s Theater, July
• Trash to Treasure (swap meet style), August, hosted by Des Moines Senior Activity Center

The Waterland Parade has NOT been officially cancelled. Yet.

There is a group of people, led by Anna Bjorneby, dedicated to making it happen with help from donations and private funding. The question is this:

Will residents and the business community support a parade?

Council Member Carmen Scott had this to say:

“This information is needed quickly by the people who would be putting on the parade in order to secure support and entrants. It is important to know if the parade is important to our residents. What does it mean to them? Parades require a level of staff support from the city. Your comments and response to the blog poll and/or email to council@desmoineswa.gov will give council members a good update on what importance the Waterland Parade has to our community.”

Here is where you can help. Parade planners and city council members need to know where the community stands on this. Due to time constraints, this is perhaps your only opportunity to be heard regarding a 2010 Waterland parade.

Please vote using our non-scientific Poll below this story, or on the sidebar. Feel free to also share your thoughts about the parade and what it means to you, your family and traditions by leaving a Comment below:

[2009 Waterland Parade Photo by Gene Achziger; buggy photo courtesy Des Moines Historical Society; 2009 Photo courtesy Carmen Scott]

Courtesy WLB Reader Deb Reed comes this great photo that perfectly captures the local summer season – fisherfolk fishing on the Des Moines pier as the sun sets:

Click on image to see larger photo.

by Dr. Leslie Kasper, DVM
Companion Animal Medical Center

Boy it’s hot out! Ninety-plus degree weather and no real rainfall in months; Des Moines residents haven’t seen weather like this for some time! But I guess now they understand the real meaning of “The Dog Days of Summer.”

I mean really, you think you got it bad?! Don’t forget about us – imagine wearing a fur coat and not being able to sweat other than through the pads of your feet (unless they are hairy too) and by panting! Yuck, Dry Mouth! So just as a kindly reminder from some of your fuzzy four-legged friends, here are some tips to help make keep us cool and comfortable too!

Cars + Pets = Death!
Think I’m being dramatic? Hundreds of pets die every year from being left in cars during summer heat. Yes, I know it’s just a quick errand and you left the windows cracked or even down, but in 80+ degree heat outside, the inside of a car can easily reach over 100 degrees in about five minutes. Best course of action is to just leave me at home! Really, you will only be gone a few minutes…

Shade or Shelter
If some of your four-legged friends spend a majority of their time outside during the day, make sure they have an adequate amount of shade to protect themselves. Doghouses can be helpful, but like your house or car, if it’s in the sun all day they can hold heat and provide little comfort. If the roof is detachable try lifting it up slightly or setting it off kilter to allow for airflow and heat escape. Having a second shelter or shaded area allows for options as the day and temperatures progress. If your pet has a light skin colored nose or ears (areas with little to no hair) a bit of sunscreen may be warranted as well.

Fresh water at all times!
Inside or out, all pets need access to fresh clean water. If possible when outside keep it in the shade, then it is bearable to drink and doesn’t evaporate quite as fast. Multiple bowls may be needed as we will go through more water than usual. But even inside, with all the fans and a/c going, the air becomes dry, and a good drink would feel great on that panting tongue. And ice cubes make fun toys!

Oh, and on the subject of mouths…
Don’t be surprised if the appetite falls off a bit! Sometimes it just doesn’t sound appealing to eat in this heat. Oh, and of course, sometimes heat can cause imbalances in the intestines, so soft stools can occur also!

Emergency Situations
Okay, we all know you are great pet-parents, but sometimes it’s just too hot! If you notice any of these symptoms, please call my veterinarian right away for evaluation or advice:

• Difficulty breathing, especially in cats or dogs with short noses (like pugs, pekes, bull dogs, and others)
• Pale gums, nose, eyes, or inner ears which are normally pink.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of food/water intake
• Shaking, seizures, or unresponsiveness when stimulated.

Okay, now go out and be safe!

Sincerely,
Rover and Tiger

(Courtesy of WLB Advertiser Companion Animal Medical Center, 206-878-0405)

The City of Des Moines Monday opened a free “Cooling Center” for all residents at the Activity (Senior) Center, located at 2045 South 216th Street, through Thursday from 11am to 9pm.

The shelter accommodations are minimal (but we believe there’s air conditioning). Water will be provided at the shelters but no food will be available. Small pets in carriers will be allowed but the owner is responsible to provide food, water and bowls for the animals.

There are other numerous places around with air conditioning that you can take advantage of; here’s a list (more listed at the King County website):

DES MOINES:

• City Cooling Shelter at the Activity Center (Senior Center)
  2045 S. 216th Street, Des Moines
  Open for Des Moines and Normandy Park residents, Monday-Thursday this week from 11:00am to 9:00pm. The shelter accommodations are minimal, water will be provided at the shelters but no food will be available. Small pets in carriers will be allowed but the owner is responsible to provide food, water and bowls for the animals. Pets will be required to remain in their carriers will inside the shelter. An information phone number with recorded information has been set up at (206) 870-6719.
• King County Library – Des Moines branch
  21620 11th Avenue South
  Des Moines 98198
  Phone: 206-824-6066
• King County Library – Woodmont branch
  26809 Pacific Highway South
  Des Moines 98198
  Phone: 253-839-0121
• Beaches! Puget Sound!
  Nothing beats the heat better than being in the cold natural waters around us. Just use common sense, and be aware that the waters are still cold enough to cause hypothermia. We recommend just wading or dipping ones toes in whilst eating an ice cream cone.
• Mt. Rainier Pool
  22722 19th Ave South
  Des Moines 98198
  Phone: (206) 824-4722
  Fees are $3.25 per hour (seniors) and up

BURIEN:

• King County Library branch on SW 152nd and 4th SW (as well as any KCLS branch in the area)
• Any bar/restaurant/coffee shop that doesn’t have its windows open (your first clue to A/C use)
• Stores – stay cool by going from store to store around town!
• The myriad of beaches around town, especially Seahurst Park Beach

TUKWILA:

• Tukwila Community Center
  12424 42nd Avenue South
  6:15am. – 9pm (Monday – Thursday)
  Phone: 206-768-2822
• Tukwila Aquatic Playground
  12424 42nd Ave South
  Tukwila, WA 98168
  Website: http://www.ci.tukwila.wa.us/recreation/recbrochure.html
• Southcenter, where “it’s always a beautiful day” (and a cool one this week)
• Tukwila Pond (go ahead and jump in, it’s not just a swamp…)

SEATAC:

• SeaTac Community Center
  13735 24th Avenue South
  SeaTac, Washington 98168
  Phone: 206.973.4680
• Angle Lake
  Pacific Hwy South at S. 195yh
  Free swimming in a real lake!

FEDERAL WAY:

• Federal Way Community Center
  876 S. 333rd Street
  5:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. (weekdays)
  7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Saturday)
  10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Sunday)
  Phone: 253-832-6900
• Wild Waves Water Park (cost involved)
  36201 Enchanted Pkwy
  Federal Way
  Phone: (253) 925-8000

AUBURN:

• Auburn Senior Center
  808 9th Street SE
  8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Thursday
  Crated/caged pets welcome.Some pet cages available for those who don’t have them.
  Phone: 253-931-3016

• Auburn Library
  1102 Auburn Way S
  10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Monday – Thursday)
  Phone: 253-931-3018

• Auburn City Hall
  25 W Main
  8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Thursday
  Crated/caged pets welcome. Some pet cages available for those who don’t have them.
  Phone: (253) 931-3033

For all you weather nerds out there, here’s a link to a new UW website called “probcast.com” that will do customized forecasts based on zip codes; we did one for 98198, and the predicted high for Wed. is now 103!

An Excessive Heat Warning will remain in effect until 6pm Thursday, July 30th; this means that a period of dangerously hot temperatures is expected which can lead to heat related illnesses. Anyone can be overcome by extreme heat, but some people are at higher risk than others. They include the elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases

Signs and symptoms of heat related illness may vary but can include:

• heavy sweating
• paleness
• muscle cramps
• tiredness
• weakness
• dizziness
• headache
• nausea or vomiting
• fainting

Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability unless treated immediately. Symptoms of heat stroke include an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F); red, hot, and dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; nausea, confusion and unconsciousness.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is urging people to take precautions and monitor themselves and others for signs and symptoms of heat related illness and call for medical aid as necessary.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and stay in air-conditioned buildings such as public libraries and community centers, malls and movie theaters. Check on relatives and neighbors, particularly those with health issues. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows rolled down.

More hot weather safety tips are available at www.kingcounty.gov/health/BeatTheHeat

Looks like the much-hyped “Hotpocalypse ’09™!” is finally hitting, with temps forecast to be in the 90s over the next several days, prompting local health officials to issue the following common sense tips:

“Protect yourself and your loved ones from heat exhaustion and heat stroke by following these recommendations:

STAY COOL:

• Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting a mall, movie theater or other cool public places (ie: Southcenter, where “it’s always a beautiful day”)
• Go down to the water! Take advantage of this city’s beaches!
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
• Dress in lightweight clothing.
• Check up on your elderly neighbors and relatives.

DRINK LIQUIDS:

• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

WHILE OUTSIDE:

• Limit your direct exposure to the sun.
• Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
• Avoid or reduce strenuous activity.
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Avoid sunburn by using a sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

Check with your physician if you are concerned about heat and the specific medications you are taking. Certain medications may increase sensitivity to the heat. Do not take salt tablets unless directed to by a physician.

Heat can lead to serious medical problems, particularly for older adults, young children, people with chronic illness, and people with weight or alcohol problems.

“The danger for heat–related illnesses rises when outside temperatures are very high,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Fortunately, all of us can prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke with some simple steps.”

RECOGNIZING HEAT STROKE:

Overheating occurs when people’s bodies are not able to cool themselves quickly enough and can lead to symptoms of heat exhaustion, including muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you notice someone with signs of overheating, move the person to a cooler location, have them rest for a few minutes and slowly drink a cool beverage. Seek medical attention for them immediately if they do not feel better.

In severe instances, people can suffer heat stroke, which can cause can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Nausea, confusion and unconsciousness

For more tips and resources on staying cool in hot weather, visit www.kingcounty.gov/health/BeatTheHeat.

The National Weather Service issued a “Special Weather Statement” late Thursday afternoon (July 23rd) warning about a heat wave that will begin this weekend and last into next week, with projected highs in the 85-95 degree range.

Here’s the official warning:

… Hot weather beginning this weekend and lasting into next week…

The hottest weather of the year is likely to occur this weekend and early next week. High temperatures will be in the 85 to 95 range. Overnight lows will be in the 60s. All areas of western Washington could be affected.

The first really hot day will be Saturday or Sunday. The hottest days look like Sunday through Tuesday. At this time models predict the hot weather could last into Thursday or beyond.

Unlike many previous hot spells… this one could also affect the coast and other places near the water. Also it is rare to have many hot days in a row in western Washington… but this heat wave could last several days.

Western Washington is having a dry Summer… and no rain is in the forecast for the next week or so. Fire danger will increase during the hot weather. There is also a risk of air stagnation during this period.

The National Weather Service will issue more statements about this event over the coming days.

And according to meteorologist Cliff Mass:

“I took a look at the long-range forecasts and was shocked.

The temperature climbs through the weekend…into the lower 90s on Sunday and mid 90s at least on Monday and Tuesday.

Too far out to be sure now….but be ready for real heat.”

BTW, Cliff also adds that:

“2009 is the driest 20 May-19 Jul period on record using the combined SeaTac/downtown observations”

So…have a great weekend, but stay cool, slathered up, and be sure to check in on elderly neighbors/relatives and drink plenty of water!

EDITOR’S NOTE: To see photos from Des Moines’ 50th Birthday & Waterland Parade (on 7/18/09), click here. To read our firsthand account of being in the parade, then hanging out with the Seafair Pirates, click here.]

The sun is shining (well, most of the time…) and summer has officially arrived in the Northwest!

And to celebrate the season and its 50th birthday, the City of Des Moines is (as most folks already know) hosting a series of family-friendly events on Saturday, July 18th, which will include:

• A visit from the tall ships Merrie Ellen and W. N. Ragland
• A wooden boat exhibit
• Strong man competition
• Classic car show
• Children’s fun zone
• Sock hop
• Seafair-sanctioned parade featuring the well-known Seafair Pirates

Des Moines has been a regional destination for the Puget Sound region since 1904 when Redondo Beach was the Northwest’s premier resort, drawing thousands visitors annually. Today, that beach town feeling still exists. Visitors can smell the sea air, dip their toes in the water, stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the area’s charming shops and restaurants. To celebrate its 50 year heritage (Des Moines officially became a city on June 17, 1959), the city is hosting a series of events throughout the summer, including the Seafair festivities, to capture the feeling of the nostalgic getaway.

Need more evidence of the city’s fun and quirky personality? Look no further than this year’s strongman competition in which feats of strength will be demonstrated by both men and women via a tire flip (100 feet total distance), axle clean and press, farmer’s walk (max weight carried for 200 feet) and keg loading (minimum 4-5 kegs loaded on to a 50 inch platform within 60 seconds). Last year, 40 competitors competed in five events and anticipation is high for this year’s competition.

Visitors will also be treated to sailboat races, a 50th birthday fun run, and performances from the Wenatchee Youth Circus – considered to be one of the top four non-professional groups in the country. Most events will be free, including the classic car and wooden boat show, Seafair parade, and the strongman competition. Minimal costs are associated with other events, such as tours of the Merrie Ellen and W. N. Ragland ($5) and tours of a new 68 foot Ocean Alexander yacht.

Festivities include:

FRIDAY, JULY 17th:

• Wenatchee Youth Circus (Des Moines Field House; adults: $7, kids: $5; 5 pm)
• Dinner & Tour of Tall Ship Merrie Ellen (Des Moines Marina; adults: $20; 7 pm)

SATURDAY, JULY 18th:

• Strongman Competition (South Marina; Free; 10 am-3 pm)
• Waterfront Farmers Market (South Marina; Free; 10 am-4 pm – look for The Waterland Blog’s booth!)
• Classic Car & Wooden Boat Show (North Marina; Free; 10 am-4 pm)
• Children’s Crafts & Activity Station (South Marina; Free; 10 am-4 pm)
• Clowns Unlimited Fun Zone (North Marina; $10 all day; 10 am-6 pm)
• Food, Community Vendors & Beer Garden (North Marina; 10 am-9 pm)
• Tours aboard the Tall Ships Merrie Ellen and W.N. Ragland (North Marina; $5 each; 10 am-4 pm)
• Wenatchee Youth Circus (Des Moines Elementary; adults: $7, kids: $5;10:30 am and 2 pm)
• Carfitti Teen Car Painting & Car Raffle (North Marina; 11 am-3 pm)
• Offshore Boat Races (North Marina; Free; Noon)
• Sailboat Races (North Marina; Free; 2 pm)
• 50th Birthday Fun Run & Walk (Run: Highline Community College, Walk: Marine View Dr. S; starts at 4:30 pm, participants check in at 2:30 pm)
• 50th Birthday Seafair Parade (Marine View Dr. S; Free; kid’s parade: 5:30 pm, main parade: 6 pm)
• Entertainment Stage featuring Pony-Boy All Star Band and Danny Vernon’s Illusion of Elvis (North Marina; performances at 11 am and 1 pm)
• Sock Hop Dance (North Marina; Free; 7:30-10:30 pm)
• 10th Annual Federal Way Symphony Garden Tour featuring speaker Carolyn Jones (Local Gardens and Des Moines Beach Park; tickets at www.federlwaysymphony.org; lectures at 11 am and 2:30 pm)

Many more community events are scheduled throughout the summer such as a Jazz & Blues Series (7/22-8/19), and the Jobies Community Carnival (8/15).

For more information, call (206) 870-6527 or visit www.desmoines50th.com.