The faded CAPT MADISON sign shown in the photo has been attached to the side of a blue house in Silverdale for decades. While photographing it during my bike ride today, I wondered yet again who or what Captain Madison was.
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A Mysterious Old Sign
Stairs to Somewhere
A long flight of stairs (see photo) that connects Oyster Bay Court to Kitsap Way might be one of Bremerton’s least known, and least used, shortcuts. Located just behind the Family Pancake House, the stairs have been there for years, possibly decades. Although I have ridden by the upper entrance hundreds of times on my bike, it was only last week that I stopped to take a closer look.
Continue readingIn-Something-Out
Think of the care In-N-Out Burger has taken to build its brand. Despite a cult-like demand from potential customers in unserved areas, it has expanded slowly, only adding franchises at a rate that allows it to maintain the quality of its burgers, fries, shakes, and service. But even with corporate advertising, splashy media coverage, a great logo (see screen capture), and my own customer experiences, until last week I was spelling and pronouncing its name incorrectly.
Continue readingA Green December
During Black Friday and Cyber Monday retailers try to lure shoppers in with big sales and massive discounts. Reef Cannabis in Bremerton (see photo) also wants to cash in on the holiday shopping season. Reef is having a sale that lasts for the entire month. Perhaps the owners are hoping for a green December.
Continue readingIn Praise of Frozen Beef Stew
Before last week I couldn’t have written a post like this one. Not because frozen beef stew should be avoided, but because I hadn’t tried it.
Continue readingTJ’s Greeting Cards
Stamping is a hobby where talented artists create elegant greeting cards for every occasion. But if stamping isn’t your thing and you need that perfect card for a special person or event, the next best thing is to visit the card rack at Trader Joe’s (see photo). It’s my go-to place for greeting cards.
Continue readingLocal Rite-Aid Closure
The black plastic covering the word Pharmacy (see photo) confirms it: This Rite-Aid has closed. That and removal of “Rite-Aid” from the brick-front siding that flanks both sides of the front entrance. Black is for funerals, right? I was left pondering two questions: where will I get my flu and covid shots this fall and what’s next for the corner of National Ave & Kitsap Way in Bremerton?
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Easiest Dryer Repair Ever
A few weeks ago my GE dryer died overnight. One day it worked; the next day it wouldn’t start. The resulting repair, professionally done, might approach record territory for its speed and simplicity. Although I’m out almost $200, I’m happy with the result.
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Wild Horse Closure
This isn’t a secret. The PSE Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility and Renewable Energy Center (see photo), located near Ellensburg, Washington, has been closed for at least month and perhaps longer. Recently, though, the message on their web page became more specific and made me realize that the visit I had been planning is a no-go—for 2025 anyway.
Continue readingWestside Pizza Lottery
I don’t mind promoting Westside Pizza in Belfair. Like the other Westside franchises, they make great pizza, and I’m a frequent customer. This week Westside held a pizza lottery. The prize: a free one-topping medium pizza. Let’s look at the odds of winning.
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