 During Monday's City Council Study Session, the City of Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department delivered an update on the Auburn Ave Theater, a project in downtown Auburn that is no doubt at the forefront of many of residents' minds. The first question -- what is going on with that space? Well it turns out, a lot.
As you probably know, the Max House Apartments adjacent to the theater burst into flames on July 24, 2021 (hard to believe it’s been two years), marking the beginning of the end for the theater, unfortunately. While it was able to reopen briefly, upon the demolition of the apartments in December 2021, the theater suffered further structural damage and was subsequently condemned in January 2022. It's been sitting there while the City continues to work with our partners on next steps. And those steps are coming!
 While I won't get into the cost just yet, as those discussions are still in the very early stages, I did want to share some of the concepts put forth by Parks and our Public Works engineering team. The existing theater spaces is about 7,500 square feet, with a seating capacity of 250, and the proposed layout would up the space to 10,300 square feet, with additional seating capacity around 290-310.
 Seeing how the theater is on a corner already, the new building could have a corner entrance, with a large façade that draws in the eye and screams "welcome!"
 There's also a plan to include overhead string lights along Main Street, which would transition to Auburn Avenue in front of the theater, providing a more welcoming and beautiful downtown experience to pedestrians. We would also upgrade pavement and sidewalks and install new traffic signals at intersections.
 We've heard the community support and we've seen the letters -- plenty of people agree (including the City Council!) that rebuilding the theater is a top priority.
As we continue to plan out the next steps of the project, including demolition, design costs, and building, we'll be sure to share more details. That includes at City Council meetings, where all of this will be discussed in public.
If you've not attended in person or watched one before, we stream each meeting online on YouTube, including Monday's!
 The Lusio Lights Festival at Mary Olson Farm is this weekend, and I think you owe it to yourself to check it out. It's one of the more surreal events hosted by the City of Auburn.
There are light art installations of all shapes, sizes, and formats curated directly into nature encouraging exploration, play, inspiration and art appreciation.
Light Art is sourced from local artists giving them a unique platform to showcase their work in a gorgeous natural setting.
Sounds are curated with a range of sounds from local artists & dj's that will hopefully leave you relaxed and uplifted.
There is something for everyone at Lusio!
It's all free and all ages!
📅 Friday, Aug. 18 and Saturday, Aug. 19
🕐 7 - 11 p.m.
📍 Mary Olson Farm, 28728 Green River Rd, Kent, WA 98030
 The City of Auburn Police Department is working with the Valley Regional Fire Authority in an effort to make a difference for those in need in Maui!  Your support really can make a meaningful difference!
If you're looking to lend a hand, we kindly invite you to contribute funds, common household items such as shoes, first aid, kids aspirin, infant supplies like diapers and formula, toiletries, tents, trash bags, cleaning supplies, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, books, school supplies and more!
Monetary and item donations will be collected through the end of August at the following locations:
Valley Regional Fire Authority, Station 31, 1101 D St NE
Auburn Police Department, 340 E Main St #201
For more information contact Officer Stephanie Bennett, 253-261-0446 or Angel Ogando, 253-398-7301.
 On Thursday, Congresswoman Kim Schrier stopped by the Lake Wilderness Lodge in Maple Valley to chat with Maple Valley Mayor Sean Kelly, City of Black Diamond Mayor Carol Benson, City of Covington Mayor Jeff Wagner and myself.
We discussed transportation funding, mental health, recruitment for the police departments, an update on passports, post offices, and more!. We also discussed auto thefts and vehicle pursuits, along with tools to help our first responders, including more funding for police helicopter units. I always appreciate Congresswoman Schrier’s willingness to get us together to discuss the issues!
Auburn Farmers Market
Head on down to the Auburn Farmers Market! Over 40 farm, food, and craft vendors plus live entertainment! Visit the information booth and check out the Estimation Jar, make your guess and enter to win a prize!
Entertainment Schedule:
11 a.m. - Noon: Acapella performance by Sound Harmony
The Market provides a convenient venue for local farmers and artisans to provide access to healthy, fresh, locally sourced food and products to area residents. The Market serves as a vibrant gathering place where visitors can learn about healthy food choices, and overall health and well-being. View more information on the Auburn Farmers Market webpage.
📅 Sunday, Aug. 20
🕐 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Les Gove Park - 1140 Auburn Way S
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Auburn Community Jr. Players: The Many Disguises of Robin Hood
In merry ol’ England, the townspeople are overtaxed and overwhelmed. Luckily, the mysterious outlaw Robin Hood is giving them hope by stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. With many clever disguises, Robin continually tricks the greedy sheriff of Nottingham, his nasty daughter, Luciana, and the evil Prince John. Among the disguises is a minstrel costume to steal Prince John’s silver plates and excellent cook. Robin also dresses as an old man and enters the archery contest to win the golden arrow. When a young girl from Nottingham joins Robin’s band of outlaws, she discovers Robin’s secret: Robin Hood is actually a woman. Eventually, Robin needs her merry band of outlaws and her childhood friend, the brave Maid Marian, to use all of their quarterstaffs, swords, arrows and wits to save her from the gallows.
📅 Friday, Aug. 25 and Saturday, Aug. 26
🕐 7 p.m.
📍 The Theatre at Mountianview, 28900 124th Avenue SE
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
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 We're putting the finishing touches on our new Postmark Center for the Arts to get it ready for the grand opening ceremony on September 16! Be on the lookout here and our myriad communication channels for updates and invites and save the date!
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