Above: Mapes Creek Banner by Roberta Hoffman

Jim Mapes Creek Concert and Poetry Event Gone Wild!

by Jim O’Halloran

On Sunday, June 8th Cascadia Poetics hosted a free event in South Seattle, near the Southern edge of the city limits. The event was to write postcards as part of the summer postcard event which Cascadia has done for many years.

The location was at the mouth of Mapes Creek, known in Lushootseed as Mapes creek begins near Kubota Garden and flows (sadly much in pipes underground) until resurfacing in Be’er Sheva Park on the shores of Lake Washington. Near the outlet there are two stage areas, one on each side of the creek. The creek itself has been cleared of invasive species, cleaned, and replanted with indigenous vegetation. It is a beautiful and calm setting.

The event drew poets, residents of the surrounding community, and passers-by. Music was provided by Jim O’Halloran on alto flute, and Susan Pascal on vibraphone.

The tune list included a traditional Yoruba song for Yemanja, the goddess of water, a tune by former Seattle resident and legendary bassist Gary Peacock, a tune by Jack DeJohnette, and a tune by Jim Pepper.

The day itself was gorgeous, sunny, warm verging on hot, and filled with the sounds of happy people of all ages.

Above:Jim O’Halloran and Susan Pascal