looking for some friendly faces in Seattle January 14, 2010 10:02 PM   Subscribe

Anyone in the Seattle area interested in a meetup in the semi-near future?

Been out of the Metafilter loop for a few months and I'm kinda hankerin' for some mefi quality time.
Plus, I kinda miss some of the familiar faces I've seen at past mefi events.

Thoughts, suggestions, ideas for getting a few Seattle peeps together?
posted by silkygreenbelly to MetaFilter Gatherings at 10:02 PM (162 comments total)

I am in favor! I was thinking about making a post very similar to this, but I don't have any particular ideas for places, and my organizer-fu is weak.
posted by hattifattener at 10:25 PM on January 14, 2010


I'm in!
posted by lunasol at 10:34 PM on January 14, 2010


I'm game.
posted by spinifex23 at 11:30 PM on January 14, 2010


I'm interested!
posted by grouse at 11:45 PM on January 14, 2010


I'm in. I came back to Seattle a few months ago after decades away and changed my profile location accordingly. I looked at the "Nearby users" when I updated and it seems a lot of Mefi people live within walking distance of my fridge, which is where I keep the beer. Mostly.
posted by vapidave at 5:46 AM on January 15, 2010


I'm interested! I often flake out, but I'm interested.
posted by The corpse in the library at 7:07 AM on January 15, 2010


I'm in.
posted by dw at 8:19 AM on January 15, 2010


I've been thinking about ideas. I think the meetup when rtha and gingerbeer visited was the most fun one I had been to and the boozing part kicked off at Elysian on Capitol Hill (13th Ave and E Pike St). So that would be my suggestion, as it can handle larger groups pretty easily. And we can always go elsewhere after we know how big the group is. I'd prefer a Saturday personally.
posted by grouse at 8:25 AM on January 15, 2010


We would so be there if we could! But the likelihood is un. We miss you guys. And the beer at Elysian was fantastic.
posted by rtha at 8:58 AM on January 15, 2010


I was actually going to post something this weekend about a meetup.
posted by lattiboy at 9:11 AM on January 15, 2010


I might go if some of the old crowd is there (Spinifex!). And I haven't seen hades and hattifattener since the old Drizzle days.
posted by matildaben at 10:25 AM on January 15, 2010


If I can, will try to attend.
posted by bearwife at 10:45 AM on January 15, 2010


oh hell yes
posted by beefetish at 10:51 AM on January 15, 2010


Man, wold love to make this ... but I haven't got the move to Seattle solidified yet.
posted by Relay at 11:48 AM on January 15, 2010


I'm in, sort of; actually, I'm out in Bremerton, so it's expensive to get to unless it's downtown/easy bus ride from the ferry. But I'd love to come...'cause I've never been to a meetup.
posted by dbmcd at 12:01 PM on January 15, 2010


Yes! Yes! I'll try to attend! (hugs matildaben!)
posted by spinifex23 at 12:26 PM on January 15, 2010


I'm in, in that "always-says-I'm-in-then-flakes-out-and-never-actually-been-to-a-Seattle-meetup" kind of way.
posted by qvantamon at 12:51 PM on January 15, 2010


I too was thinking it has been waaay too long since the last Seattle meetup. I like the meetups that start out non-boozy and end up boozy. Seems like we always talk about bringing family members (ie kids) but no one ever does. I don't have any great suggestions but think 3-2-1 Bounce would be awesome if we could manage to organize it.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 1:01 PM on January 15, 2010


I looked at the "Nearby users" when I updated and it seems a lot of Mefi people live within walking distance of my fridge

Holy crap vapidave, we're neighbors! I bet we've seen each other walking about.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 1:03 PM on January 15, 2010


Defiantely up for it - it's been too long. Recently meetups have all been out-of-range for me or scheduled when I'm out of town.

Downtown/Fremond/Ballard would be my own selfish preferences.

How about Brauers again? All 3-4 people that turned up seemed to like it. Possibly abit pricey though.
posted by Artw at 1:20 PM on January 15, 2010


I would be quite happy for a Brouwer's meetup too. The place gets pretty busy though in the evenings.
posted by grouse at 1:22 PM on January 15, 2010


Yeah, friday and saturday that area can be a nightmare.
posted by Artw at 1:24 PM on January 15, 2010


If you end up having it on a Friday or Saturday, Brouwer's is probably not a good pick. That place is insanely busy on weekends.
posted by Skot at 1:26 PM on January 15, 2010


I'd like to go to my first meetup. I'm in Gig Harbor, but getting up there is pretty easy for me.
posted by ctmf at 1:26 PM on January 15, 2010


I'd be in, if I can make it! There's an Elysian brewery near SODO (even has a nice side room with comfy seating etc), and another near Greenlake. Brouwer's has a great selection but yes, super crowded and loud. Hale's brewery has fair beers and food, and nice couches too. Another personal fave is Naked City in Greenwood. Pretty sure they have the most eclectic beer selection in town.
posted by TochterAusElysium at 1:38 PM on January 15, 2010


SODO one is pretty large isn't it? Might be better for big groups.
posted by Artw at 2:19 PM on January 15, 2010


That said, Naked City is kind of intriguing.
posted by Artw at 2:21 PM on January 15, 2010


The problem with having a meetup in a place called Naked City, is that if someone misunderstands it we'll all end up clawing our eyes out.
posted by qvantamon at 2:38 PM on January 15, 2010


I agree that Naked City has a better website, but the truffle fries and location for Elysian brewery are drawing me in that direction.
posted by bearwife at 2:45 PM on January 15, 2010


I haven't been to one in a couple years and would love to try as well!
posted by vito90 at 2:59 PM on January 15, 2010


The Sodo Elysian (which is right across from the north parking lot of Qwest) has all-ages and 21+ seating. Also, the lobster mac and cheese is tremendous. A bit of a schlep from the Chinatown/International District station compared to taking a bus to Capitol Hill.

I wouldn't mind riding the light rail to the airport for fun afterwards. I've only ridden from downtown to Royal Brougham.
posted by dw at 3:45 PM on January 15, 2010


Tuta Bella in Columbia City has nice Pizza, I rode out there for the novelty one time.
posted by Artw at 3:48 PM on January 15, 2010


Hmm. Naked City is in Greenwood. It's also across from Pillagers Pub and one of Seattle's most pickled and nicotine-encrusted dives, The Baranof. And Gordito's is around the corner, and there's a gyro/shawarma on the other side of 85th.

And most importantly, it's a lot closer to my house.
posted by dw at 3:51 PM on January 15, 2010


Naked City appears to be across from Gary's Games, the nerdiest place I visit!
posted by Artw at 3:53 PM on January 15, 2010


(Not really a recommendation, just warning people as to the extent of my depravity)
posted by Artw at 3:53 PM on January 15, 2010


dw has it right: that lobster mac & cheese at Elysian Fields is DIVINE. (And - bragging - I have art hanging in the current show there). So I vote for them, natch.
posted by TochterAusElysium at 4:21 PM on January 15, 2010


For those who don't already know, the Elliot Bay Bookstore is about to close doors in Pioneer Square and move to Capitol Hill (near the spot where,IIRC, Confounded books went to die). A trip to the SODO Elysium might also be a good excuse to pop over there and pick the corpse say goodbye to that location.
posted by Artw at 4:35 PM on January 15, 2010


Naked City is a good choice, I'll keep wracking my brain for places that are a little less alcohol centric.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 6:49 PM on January 15, 2010


"Holy crap vapidave, we're neighbors!"

Wallyhood represent!
Your house is on my old "Outlook" paper route. I only say that because I hardly ever get a chance to say that.

"And most importantly, it's a lot closer to my house."
I say we all be as accommodating as possible and meet at dw's.

Also, dw, Sir, I am Seattle's most pickled and nicotine-encrusted dive.
posted by vapidave at 7:50 PM on January 15, 2010


I know this is off in the future, but we should also plan on the washington cask brewers festval on March 27th.

This guy will probably be there. He has a shirt with hops on it. (I don't know who he is).
posted by mrzarquon at 9:09 PM on January 15, 2010


also, this hat.
posted by mrzarquon at 9:30 PM on January 15, 2010


I cast an interested eye in this thread's direction. Naked City is far more convenient for me than Elysium Sodo, but I have been epically flake in attending meetups for several years, soooo... make of that what you will.
posted by mwhybark at 10:32 PM on January 15, 2010


It seems the majority of folks here are up in Greenwood area, so I think that might be fun. Also, we can go to the DMV if needs be!

Could we add cheap-ass happy hour to the criteria? I'm a little sick of these goddamn brew pubs (or worse yet "gastro pubs" whateverthefuckthatis) with 4312 beers (of which 5 are good) charging me six goddamn dollars for a fake pint of piss warm pretentiously named bullshit! So yeah, cheap would be good..........
posted by lattiboy at 10:43 PM on January 15, 2010


lattiboy: "we can go to the DMV if needs be!"

Well, we can park there, which is nice, but they closed the branch.


And I just thought of another couple few reasons to go Greenwood: a MeFite arson-recovery stimulus, and, of course, the Greenwood Space Travel Supply Company. Really, add a comic shop, and it would be the perfect neighborhood. Except for the beatings and robberies and the bog, but as this is a boosterish post, I leave the linkies to the critically-inclined.
posted by mwhybark at 10:52 PM on January 15, 2010


There's a comic shop. Not my favourite one, but a comic shop nonetheless.
posted by Artw at 11:34 PM on January 15, 2010


Could we add cheap-ass happy hour to the criteria?

The Elysian in Sodo has a 4-6pm happy hour that doesn't have cheap drinks as much as cheap food. $3 truffle fries, a pint glass full per serving.

Really, add a comic shop, and it would be the perfect neighborhood.

Looks like there's one across from the Bartell's.
posted by dw at 11:38 PM on January 15, 2010


Artw: "There's a comic shop. Not my favourite one, but a comic shop nonetheless"


So there is, in that weird set-back commercial building!
- and as a street-view bonus, witness the end of the Squirrel's Second-Hand Accumulate signage.
posted by mwhybark at 11:44 PM on January 15, 2010


Yay! I flaked out on the last one as far as I know it. I want to meet you guys and find out if any of you secretly live in my building!
I'm pro anything with food, but anti anything that is 100% about beer. Beer shmeer. Greenwood is a little bit scary but if I can stop by Wayward and get me a Minbari Mocha I'm good.
posted by Mizu at 12:18 AM on January 16, 2010


Yay! I flaked out on the last one as far as I know it.

You're not sure if you were at a meetup? That sounds like my kind of party.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 7:59 AM on January 16, 2010 [1 favorite]


I've lurked sporadically for years, but only recently have I started reading/contributing fairly regularly. I would jump at the chance to meet some of you in person. So, count me in.

I'm downtown, so fairly convenient to just about anywhere. Are any of you folks familiar with the Zig Zag Cafe on the Hillclimb behind the Market, between Western Ave. and Alaskan Way? The food is great, and the drinks are some of the best anywhere. The bartender Murray Stenson is a Seattle treasure and one of the country's best. They have a happy hour as well...5-7.
posted by nickjadlowe at 10:28 AM on January 16, 2010


Greenwood is is close to three hours bus time round trip for me, with a stop downtown after dark, if it's late, so I am out for anything out there. Capitol Hill or downtown, anywhere I could walk or bike in a pinch, I can do.

As long as it's not loud. I went into to Cafe Vita on Pike Street with a friend recently and their music was so loud, we couldn't possibly have a conversation.
posted by y2karl at 12:14 PM on January 16, 2010


By the way, there's one of those stealth 'Inspired by' Starbucks, Roy Street Coffee, that is semi-kitty corner from the Deluxe Tavern which serves wine and beer for those so inclined.
They have movies on Wednesday and music on Saturdays but other than that, it's quiet and not totally crowded and it does have wi-fi.

And you can see tkchrist's house from there. People could go bang on his windows if they were so inclined.

I would arrange some sort of reserved seating if people were up for it.
posted by y2karl at 12:33 PM on January 16, 2010


Oh, man, we totally should go bang on tkchrist's windows. Unless it'd make him come out and karate us.

I might be able to make it, depending on date/time, and I'd always vote for quieter and earlier in the day vs. loud and late, but this is because I am old and decrepit.
posted by Kat Allison at 2:23 PM on January 16, 2010


Oh, man, we totally should go bang on tkchrist's windows.

Well, maybe we could have a separate field trip meet up for just that if enough people were interested.
posted by y2karl at 2:58 PM on January 16, 2010


So is there *any* consensus here? I see SODO, Greenwood, Downtown, Georgetown...and no dates. Come on sheeple! Let's get this thing organized! (ha)
posted by dbmcd at 3:11 PM on January 16, 2010


I am old and decrepit.

I feel like the true oldster here as I think I'm the only one on this thread who's been on the planet for more than 50 years, . . . and this would be first meetup for me too. If I get past that, what are people thinking of in terms of date? (Re place, Zig Zag looks good too. I'm not clear that Roy Street Coffee has more to eat than pastry type stuff.)
posted by bearwife at 3:12 PM on January 16, 2010


Well, if Greenwood is an issue for some, I can always pickup people on my way (I'm out in West Seattle).

I really don't know many good places around now that Satellite Lounge in Cap Hill closed :(


SOMEBODY JUST PICK SOMETHING!
posted by lattiboy at 3:28 PM on January 16, 2010


I just moved to Seattle so I guess count me in. I suspect there are better places than Elysian though -- I've been to both the Capitol Hill one and the one across from the stadium but both seem a bit pricey for what you're getting ... so surely there are better brew pubs! This is Seattle!!

I am unfortunately quite busy next Saturday. And probably Sunday though. :(
posted by R343L at 3:31 PM on January 16, 2010


Howabout 2 weeks Friday, 6 onwards?
posted by Artw at 3:32 PM on January 16, 2010


Also I really want to do something kid freindly sometime, but I'm thinking summer will be better. I suggested something last year but I dropped the ball on following it up - this year i'll try to do better.
posted by Artw at 3:41 PM on January 16, 2010


Jan. 29 (2 Fridays onward) works for me. February 5 would be trickier.
posted by bearwife at 3:52 PM on January 16, 2010


That Friday is open!
posted by R343L at 3:54 PM on January 16, 2010


Why not pick a weekend, Sat or Sun? More people have less going on.
posted by P.o.B. at 3:57 PM on January 16, 2010


Friday night? Trying to cut through rush hour traffic downtown or the hipsters on Capitol Hill? No thank you.

The Elysian in Sodo has a lot of space for sitting and shit-shooting. That would be my choice. And it's quiet on early Saturday evening this time of year with no sports teams playing in Qwest or Safeco.

Doing a Greenwood meetup is fine too, but Friday night most of what's interesting would be closed, and there's seriously nowhere to park in Greenwood. It's what Capitol Hill was 15 years ago, back when you could occasionally find a space on Cap Hill within 3 blocks of your destination.
posted by dw at 4:06 PM on January 16, 2010


I'm not clear that Roy Street Coffee has more to eat than pastry type stuff.

I am pretty sure it has sandwiches. I am meeting a friend there in a few minutes so I will report back with details later.

My pick way back when was the Eastlake Zoo--and I know the manager would be more than happy to accomodate such a crew again. It's a by now venerable dive bar with no food but there is a pizza place two doors down with pizza and subs available. And the Carrot Cafe is right next door as well. Ordering food from them is OK with the Zoo. It's not totally quiet but that could be somewhat managed as well, I think. Not kid friendly but they do have the pool tables, a snooker table and one of those shuffeboard games. Not to mention a Simpsons pinball machine.

No liquor served, though, if that is an issue. I thought the meet up was fun but OPMMV.
posted by y2karl at 4:08 PM on January 16, 2010


Oops, that should have been I'm not clear that Roy Street Coffee has more to eat than pastry type stuff. I was quoting bearwife above.
posted by y2karl at 4:09 PM on January 16, 2010


I don't know from personal experience what Roy Street has to eat . . . just didn't see mention of anything other than bakery stuff on website. Look forward to hearing what they've got.

I think traffic is miserable on Saturday nights too. I-5 is certainly horrid then. I'd like Friday if possible to avoid grief from my hubby, but defer to majority rule.
posted by bearwife at 4:17 PM on January 16, 2010


Okay, I feel like a weekend DAYTIME meetup at the Elysian in Sodo is the way to go.

I feel we should just do this and wish for the best. Saturday or Sunday around 12-2PM? The 30th or 31st?

I feel this slipping away if we don't just make up our minds.



PS Again, I have no problem grabbing somebody from Cap Hill or whatever to get them to the destination.
posted by lattiboy at 5:48 PM on January 16, 2010


OK, I will buy into weekend daytime sodo.
posted by Artw at 5:57 PM on January 16, 2010


Let's do Elysian Fields SODO two weeks from today. We can start at 6. That should be early enough to avoid some of the Saturday night problems, but also good for people who are more inclined to going out in the evening. It's also centrally located so there shouldn't be some big imbalance of convenience. They have good beer as well as decent food, and are quite spacious.

6 p.m.
30 January 2010
Elysian Fields
542 1st Ave S
Seattle, WA 98104
posted by grouse at 6:18 PM on January 16, 2010


I don't want to be the negative nelly here, but 6 isn't exactly daytime. I mean it works fine for me but I'm just being aware of what other people suggested.
posted by P.o.B. at 6:22 PM on January 16, 2010


Earlier would be better for me as well. In any case, the Roy Street Cafe, while it does have a small menu with a sandwich or so, a cheese and olive and pickle plate, a soup and so forth, is just not appropriate. The only space that makes any sense at all has high stools and it is too small to hold more than eight people. What was I thinking ? What, because it's only a block and so away ? Oh, yeah.. right...
posted by y2karl at 6:37 PM on January 16, 2010


I just punched it into the calendar - hopw about a 4pm start?
posted by Artw at 6:42 PM on January 16, 2010


If you are driving, you might consider parking somewhere along the light rail route, and then taking the train to International District/Chinatown station. It's then a 10 min walk to Elysian Fields.

I think 4 would be great. Personally, I might not show up until later, but it lets those who want to span the sunset.
posted by grouse at 6:51 PM on January 16, 2010


Seconding 4 p.m.
posted by P.o.B. at 6:57 PM on January 16, 2010


I prefer SODO - I can ride the fancy-schmancy train from my neck of the woods (Rainier Valley) up to it.
posted by spinifex23 at 7:27 PM on January 16, 2010


See? The train *IS* useful!
posted by Artw at 7:32 PM on January 16, 2010


Oh thank god, that shit was getting tiring!

So, it looks like:

4 p.m.
30 January 2010
Elysian Fields
542 1st Ave S
Seattle, WA 98104
posted by lattiboy at 8:07 PM on January 16, 2010 [3 favorites]


cool, I should make it.
posted by jacalata at 9:05 PM on January 16, 2010


"Greenwood is is close to three hours bus time round trip for me,..."
If you're catching the Mars -> Greenwood line. On a bad day. After a galactic disaster. On a Sunday. In a universe where the time-space continuum doesn't obtain and the universe is an active agent of delay.
Also when did Greenwood turn into the Bronx as seen on 70's TV? I missed the memo.
On preview: Elysian Fields and then egg tkchrist's house, egg type TBD.
posted by vapidave at 9:15 PM on January 16, 2010


If you're catching the Mars -> Greenwood line. On a bad day. After a galactic disaster.

Try going from the U District to Greenwood sometime. The last 48 Express passes by UW around 4:15, meaning you're either taking the local 48 that winds around Green Lake for 45 minutes or you're taking the overstuffed 44 to the 355, which is supposed to come something like evey 10 minutes but is more like nothing for 40 minutes and then three buses in a row and then nothing again. Oh, you could try the 67 to Northgate and just miss the 5 and wait 15 minutes for the next one only to wait on the bus for 10 minutes while the driver takes a smoke break and eventually winds its way to 105th and then down to Greenwood, unless you weren't looking and took the 5 that goes to Shoreline.

In summary, Greenwood is one stark example of what's wrong with how Metro's transit funding is allocated. Kirkland has better bus service than Greenwood, and there are fewer people living in Kirkland AND Kirkland is a suburb.
posted by dw at 9:44 PM on January 16, 2010


Does the 5 not take you pretty much to the door?
posted by Artw at 9:51 PM on January 16, 2010


(sorry, somehow glossed over the bit about the 44 > 5 route.

5's a nice bus, IMHO. The 44 is like some kind of medieval plague chariot. Still, it's not the 7.
posted by Artw at 9:55 PM on January 16, 2010


I'm sort of coming to the conclusion that the rule of thumb for metro in Seattle is that North to South is okay, East to West generally is sucky, and any combination of the two is going to be a nightmare.
posted by Artw at 10:08 PM on January 16, 2010


"Try going from the U District to Greenwood sometime."
Hah, this U district boy remembers paying a dime fare to ride route 26 and 16 here. Busted by recent I seem to be.
Still the seats are comfy and the people polite. I do wish it was pay as you enter all the time though.
If you run for office I will not only vote for you but I will see that everyone enfranchised that I know votes for you as well. As to Kirkland, the first woman I ever had sex with was from Kirkland and I think that after all these years I've run out of ways to say "sorry".
posted by vapidave at 10:57 PM on January 16, 2010


Try riding the 358 someday.
posted by P.o.B. at 11:04 PM on January 16, 2010


Anywhere to Downtown is OK, Capitol Hill to the U District is great, Fremont to Ballard is fine, Rainier Valley to the CD is reasonable, North Seattle to Northgate is alright, but anywhere else you're better off driving or walking.

East-west is hard because there aren't a lot of streets that do that and can handle the traffic. Your only way to Ballard from UW/Sandpoint is 45th/44th/Market, which is pretty much just two lanes from I-5 to 15th.
posted by dw at 11:05 PM on January 16, 2010


Rainier Valley is the Best Valley. Why? We have the train.

The rest of you can share in the magical joy of rail-based transit in 5 years or so...
posted by spinifex23 at 11:13 PM on January 16, 2010


The rest of you can share in the magical joy of rail-based transit in 5 years or so...

5 years? FIVE YEARS? Try TEN to Northgate.
posted by dw at 11:30 PM on January 16, 2010


I'm sort of coming to the conclusion that the rule of thumb for metro in Seattle is that North to South is okay, East to West generally is sucky, and any combination of the two is going to be a nightmare.

I have come to the conclusion that downtown after dark on a weekend night is not a place I want to be by myself. Especially at major transfer points like between Stewart and Pike or Pike and Pine on Third. I went down town to catch a bus to the airport a couple of summers past and while I was standing at the bus stop in front of the Macy's parking garage, I watched as some 300 plus pound Pacific Islander kid walk up and slap the living shit out of some frail old man at the bus stop across the street at Macy's. Walked up to him, said something and then, Whap! Whap! Whap! I don't know what was going on but, Jesus--that was some scary shit. And it came out of nowhere. All I could think was that if that was me, I would be paying out of pocket for and feeling the results of it for a long, long time thereafter. I flagged down a cab.

Not to mention the all bus shelters downtown seem to have been removed.
posted by y2karl at 11:52 PM on January 16, 2010


There's a lot to be said for cabs. I work in the financial district, in the bottom floors of the Dexter Horton building, and whenever I work late I'm always amazed at how the area seems to be totally devoid of any normal people.

Oh, and 3rd and Pike and Pine is the home of the lovely eating establishment we refer to as the SmackDonalds.
posted by Artw at 11:59 PM on January 16, 2010


Not to get too deep in the weeds w/r/t downtown, but my absolute FAVORITE thing was how the police and the criminal element have such an amazing little agreement about where you can get away with shit. I think it goes something like:

"Okay, you freaks stay WEST of 4th and SOUTH of Cherry. Oh, and give Pike Place a few blocks of 'less shitty than you'd think' so the tourists keep coming."


Having worked on 4th for quite a few years, the dividing line when going down to 3rd was so stark it still shocks me.
posted by lattiboy at 12:08 AM on January 17, 2010


I'm in (along with my SO). We would also be more than willing to offer a ride to whomever needed one. My schedule is flexible so just let me know if we can help. Memail me for phone number.
posted by nickjadlowe at 12:10 AM on January 17, 2010


Dang, sorry about that y2k. Um, without going into detail I've been there and I hate it. I hope that memory recedes.
posted by vapidave at 12:12 AM on January 17, 2010


Yeah, well, I got mugged once some years back. I found out that you really do see stars if someone jumps on your head. It all took about twenty seconds. It seemed like a lot longer at the time. If I had had some money at the time, it would have been over sooner.

And the memories do recede. I can testify to that.

But that night at the bus stop across from Macy's--I never saw anything like that happen right out on 3rd before. Not with people all over watching it happen.

But this has no relevance here. This meetup I can get to and from without a problem.
posted by y2karl at 12:52 AM on January 17, 2010


Oh crap - I can't make it. I'm going to a metal show that night. For those who are curious, Týr is playing at Studio 7, and they are one of my favorite bands.

Sorry! *throws horns*
posted by spinifex23 at 1:22 AM on January 17, 2010


That's the practically same neighbourhood and doors don;t open till 5:30! You can totally ctahc a pre-gig pint!
posted by Artw at 12:02 PM on January 17, 2010 [1 favorite]


I'll see - but I like to be first in line in order to get a good seat.

Yes. I sit at metal concerts.
posted by spinifex23 at 2:50 PM on January 17, 2010


Yeah! stet and I are in.

Anyone else coming out from Kitsap, let's ... ferrypool?

lunasol and I have idly discussed taking our poor SAD-addled brains to the Pacific Science Center to go to the butterfly room and be warm and sunny. If others are interested we could go beforehand maybe. It's expensive though -- $16 for non-members, or if we get 15 people we get a group rate of $11 each. Not even sure if I can swing that, but I figured I'd throw it out there. Anyone?
posted by librarina at 10:51 PM on January 17, 2010


I'd be interested in checking out the museum but don't need to buy a ticket.

As far as discounted admission to the Pacific Science Center goes, you can get a two-person membership for $60 that includes two guest passes and six regular IMAX films. Only a slight discount, but a couple of people get to go home with the membership. Also, an individual Seattle CityPass is available for $54, and gives you one-time admission to five other attractions until the end of February.
posted by grouse at 8:42 AM on January 18, 2010


I'm in! I'll MeMail Libarina about car-pooling to Elysian, or just walk.
posted by dbmcd at 9:22 AM on January 18, 2010


Wow. This thread was an adventure swimming through. I might be out of town, but if I'm not, I'd love to come. I don't post much, but I'd love to hang out.
posted by soupy at 10:25 AM on January 18, 2010


I believe I will join you folks. At the Elysian, not the SAD-combating butterfly fest.

I've already got sunshine on a cloudy day; when it's cold outside, I've got my trusty 10,000 lumen therapeutic SAD lamp.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 10:42 AM on January 18, 2010


The meetup link in the metatalk sidebar now points to the correct comment.
posted by Artw at 10:42 AM on January 18, 2010


I'm really glad we've set a date and everything! See y'all there!!
posted by silkygreenbelly at 3:56 PM on January 18, 2010


I'll do my best to show up for a pint or two.
posted by Errant at 10:09 AM on January 19, 2010


As far as I know, I'll be there, unless I get penciled in at work. It's also the day before I put in my two weeks at work, so that's exciting, too.
posted by gc at 11:25 PM on January 19, 2010


Sounds fun. I'm going to try and drop in.
posted by dawnoftheread at 8:16 AM on January 22, 2010


count me in!
posted by Glibpaxman at 1:52 PM on January 23, 2010


I still owe Artw beers from August 2008, maybe now I can finally settle up!
posted by blasdelf at 10:34 PM on January 28, 2010


I still have a comic belonging to Tube from 07 or 08! I'll have to bring it along in case he shows.
posted by Artw at 10:36 PM on January 28, 2010


Crap - work came up; can't make it. One of these days I will...
posted by TochterAusElysium at 3:23 PM on January 29, 2010


I'm in! I'm not going to flake out! I'm not! I'm not! I'm not!
posted by The corpse in the library at 4:56 PM on January 29, 2010 [1 favorite]


I'm in still. You'll recognize me as the nervous one that shows up a little late wearing a searching look.
(My mom, who yes, has a son aged 45 living with her* temporarily is even thinking of coming with me which would be as awesome as it is unlikely.)

*I have a room upstairs thank you.
posted by vapidave at 12:30 AM on January 30, 2010


I'm bringing my best friend as bodyguard. He says he's just coming for the food.

I'll have you know I'm skipping a friend of a friend's birthday party for this! Clearly, you all will be more entertaining than a bunch of Amazon employees I've never met, but let it be known that you have a base level of entertainment to exceed!
posted by Mizu at 2:36 AM on January 30, 2010


Small word of caution: Mariners FanFest is this weekend and ends at 4, so there is a slight possibility the area might be crowded (or more crowded than a Saturday afternoon at 4 on a non-game weekend).

Just to be safe, I'm going to call ahead with a reservation for 20.
posted by dw at 10:36 AM on January 30, 2010


Under what name, dw? Seymore Butts. Please put it under Seymore Butts.
posted by The corpse in the library at 11:49 AM on January 30, 2010 [1 favorite]


If I make it, and that as yet remains to be seen, no photos, please.
Just sayin'.
Or typin'--if you wish.
posted by y2karl at 1:22 PM on January 30, 2010


Oh crap. Forgot the Boat Show is happening this weekend, too.

They said they can't promise anything space-wise, but they'll try to accommodate.
posted by dw at 2:12 PM on January 30, 2010


Crap. I might head down early, and buzzard a table.
posted by Artw at 2:20 PM on January 30, 2010


Me too. I think I'll try and get there at 3:30 or so. Hopefully some kind of parking can be worked out.
posted by lattiboy at 2:21 PM on January 30, 2010


Everyone! The boat show, the boat show, you gotta do the boat show...
posted by The corpse in the library at 2:34 PM on January 30, 2010


Hasn't that thing been going on all week? Might not be too bad.
posted by Artw at 2:36 PM on January 30, 2010


Damn. Missed bus stop. On the 5 express. Am in western fucking Seattle.
posted by Artw at 3:37 PM on January 30, 2010 [1 favorite]


Now I'm on the 54, coming back! Wheeee!

On the plus side, I am listening to a very interesting podcast about face cancer in Tasmanian devils.
posted by Artw at 3:50 PM on January 30, 2010


We are here! Look for the comfy chairs.
posted by dw at 4:05 PM on January 30, 2010


SW corner of the bar - no hordes of cigar chomping CEOs from boatshow.
posted by Artw at 4:28 PM on January 30, 2010


Got stuck interviewing a new nanny, am leaving Wallingford now. See you soon.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 4:32 PM on January 30, 2010


Why was I thinking 6? It's now. On my way.
posted by vapidave at 4:36 PM on January 30, 2010


Impresive number of non-flakeouts.
posted by Artw at 10:09 PM on January 30, 2010


I learned two things.
1) Y2Karl is mostly not a bot. Mostly.
2) "Can you take a look at this mole" means something totally different to Slarty Bartfast than it does to me.
2.a.) Blasdelf is an actual fucking Elf and persistently mispronounces his own name.
posted by vapidave at 10:12 PM on January 30, 2010 [3 favorites]


2.a.) Blasdelf is an actual fucking Elf
Yes! This freaked me out on the walk to the bus stop with him. He walks like three times faster than me. This makes perfect sense because his legs are three times longer. I just wanna put a bow in his hands and twigs in his hair or something. The guy obviously needs to move to New Zealand.
posted by Mizu at 10:17 PM on January 30, 2010 [1 favorite]


Hi. That was fun.
posted by Mars Saxman at 10:54 PM on January 30, 2010


I was there only briefly, but I'm glad to have met those of you I did, and sorry I didn't meet the rest. Cheers to a great turnout!
posted by bepe at 11:00 PM on January 30, 2010


Oh, crap, totally forgot about this. Another one in the near future?
posted by lunasol at 11:38 PM on January 30, 2010


Absolutely!
posted by Artw at 11:44 PM on January 30, 2010


Sorry I couldn't make it - I was too busy hanging out down the street singing along to Faroese Viking metal songs.

Maybe next time it won't be scheduled the same day one of my favorite bands in the universe plays a live gig in town :)
posted by spinifex23 at 1:35 AM on January 31, 2010


wow, that was quite impressive! I tried to count at one point and there was nearly 30 people!! Both whycurious and myself had a throughly enjoyable time.
posted by silkygreenbelly at 10:27 AM on January 31, 2010


I had a great time. I would've mingled more, but I had a very comfortable chair and was afraid it would disappear if I got up.

Here is a photo of some pickled herring.
posted by The corpse in the library at 10:50 AM on January 31, 2010


I'm never gonna live that down, am I.
posted by Mizu at 11:41 AM on January 31, 2010


Lots of members in that club Mizu. By the way, as founder and president I'm compelled to inform you that you are late on your dues yet again.

Also I talked to Y2Karl and asked if as a compromise in respect of his request to not take pictures he wouldn't mind if I was to post a drawing of him. He thought that was fine but it turns out I can't draw. I did however find a close approximation which I link here.
posted by vapidave at 1:38 PM on January 31, 2010


I think the Elysian dealt remarkably well with a horde of 30+ librarians/web developers/misc other who all wanted seperate tabs. Though maybe next time we should brave the wilds of crime-struck Greenwood.
posted by Artw at 1:50 PM on January 31, 2010


Though maybe next time we should brave the wilds of crime-struck Greenwood.

My suggestion was going to be that we do a flash mob takeover of the bumper car concession at the Seattle Center and then adjourn to some place in the neighborhood. Like that barbecue place next to the liquor store on 1st Avenue North just down from the corner of 1st North and Mercer. The one with the cow and pig revolving sign. Or rent the bumper car concession after hours and send out for pizza or something. Just as long as bumper cars are involved. I want to T-Bone MetaFilter members in same.
posted by y2karl at 2:26 PM on January 31, 2010


Oh, and thanks to Errant for dropping me off in Phinney - hope you got back ok.

(We pretty much closed things down. I cannot by action or innaction allow another to finish a pint alone.)
posted by Artw at 2:50 PM on January 31, 2010 [1 favorite]


I am all for doing a Greenwood meetup in the future.
posted by grouse at 3:10 PM on January 31, 2010


So, I know that at least two tables were playing the 'Someone just arrived! Could it be Blazecock?" guessing game. Do we have a total number of people playing the game? My best guess for a covert BP was Mars, which is odd considered that I'd met him previously.
posted by stet at 3:18 PM on January 31, 2010


Oh dear.
posted by Artw at 3:32 PM on January 31, 2010


Got back fine, thanks, and thanks for closing the place down with me.

It was fun, looking forward to doing it again soon.
posted by Errant at 3:52 PM on January 31, 2010


that was fun everyone. made me wish i'd started coming to these shindigs sooner. looking forward to the next one!
posted by Glibpaxman at 6:50 PM on January 31, 2010


I brought my friend Susan, who I have known since the Before Blasdelf era, to see what her reaction would be, she being unfamilar with MetaFilter. Afterward, she was blown away. She could not say enough nice things about the folks in attendance: how intelligent and funny, unpretentious and down to earth people were in conversation--no one was phony, no one was on the make and everyone was so interesting. She said that she thought it was one of the nicest social events she had attended in some time. As she is someone whose judgment I trust, it was very nice to hear my own experience confirmed.

It really was the most successful meetup that I ever attended. I only wish I had gotten to talk to more people. But if the ideal number for a party is supposedly 8, I did talk to more people than that, so I guess I did all right.
posted by y2karl at 9:42 AM on February 1, 2010


Hooray! I'm so happy Susan had a good time. She seemed a mite confused when she first arrived (and who wouldn't be on meeting such a crowd) so it pleases me that we, or at least the rest of y'all, won her over.

Also, Blazecock, as regards my previous comment, I hope you read it as intended and as a sincere wish to meet and bullshit each other in person.
posted by stet at 10:07 AM on February 1, 2010


And while were at it, that's an uncanny resemblance to Karl.
posted by stet at 10:08 AM on February 1, 2010


Well, you might get hugged. Terrible, terrible hugging.
posted by Artw at 10:17 AM on February 1, 2010


I think the initial confusion had to do with the seating--we ended up between tables as everyone had gotten there before us. So, surrounded by multiple conversations, it was like the vinegar selection at QFC--too many choices. That meet up was more like three or four meetups at once, albeit not without a modicum of table hopping.

I was very impressed with how the waitresses managed to keep track of everyone's orders.

I did however find a close approximation which I link here.

I think that should have been here.
posted by y2karl at 10:46 AM on February 1, 2010 [1 favorite]


I was very impressed with how the waitresses managed to keep track of everyone's orders.

I get the impression they have a lot of experience in that. When we first got there she explained it was much easier to have each person open a tab than to try and split bills.

I told artw he's replacing mrzarquon as The Person Who Should Organize Seattle Meetups. He swore a lot. But it wasn't cute English swearing ("Oh bloody hell, piss off you yob") but bland American swearing ("Fuck.")

But anyway... maybe we can plan for one a quarter.
posted by dw at 11:43 AM on February 1, 2010


Here's a Lego rendering of y2karl.
posted by dw at 11:49 AM on February 1, 2010


Well, I sort of promised to organize a summer kid-compatible something a long time ago, I should actually go ahead and do that. That could even be a Greenlake thing. Probably shouldn't say fuck so much while I do it, but that's how I roll. You're just lucky you don't work with me/in my vicinity - "Fuck, fuck, jesus fuck, why is that doing that? Work you fucking thing."
posted by Artw at 11:57 AM on February 1, 2010


Well, you might get hugged. Terrible, terrible hugging. (NO HAMBURGER)
posted by blasdelf at 3:47 PM on February 1, 2010


Would we HAMBURGER about a thing like that?
posted by Artw at 3:50 PM on February 1, 2010


You're just lucky you don't work with me/in my vicinity - "Fuck, fuck, jesus fuck, why is that doing that? Work you fucking thing."

So you're saying if we worked together it'd be in stereo?
posted by dw at 4:51 PM on February 1, 2010


"Fuck, fuck, jesus fuck,"...


Now add some medical chart throwing and you know what it is like working with me. This became much more difficult after we went electronic.
posted by Slarty Bartfast at 7:43 PM on February 1, 2010


You work in that hospital inside the Space Needle from Grey's Anatomy?
posted by Artw at 7:48 PM on February 1, 2010


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