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 "Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going."
-- Sam Levenson --
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 It's time -- a winner-takes-all basketball game between the Auburn Police Department and Valley Regional Fire Authority, an annual spring tradition more important than bunnies and chocolate. The only thing on the line is bragging rights and perhaps the most important piece -- walking away without an injury! The way these two teams have played in the past, I'm going to keep my fingers crossed.
 In all seriousness, this Sunday, March 29 at 4 p.m., members of the Auburn Police Department will take on our friends at the Valley Regional Fire Authority for a friendly basketball game at Olympic Middle School. Last year, VRFA came out on top, so our team in blue is looking to even the score this time around!
This annual game is much more than that -- it's also a food drive and fundraiser with proceeds that directly benefit our Blue Auburn Resilience Foundation, an APD-managed organization dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial well-being of our officers.
No matter the winner or loser, Auburn will come out on top, and that's what really matters! I hope to see you there, whether you're cheering for the red or the blue. Let's have some fun!
📅 Sunday, March 29
⏰ 4 p.m.
📍 Olympic Middle School | 839 21st St SE
(Photo courtesy of PepsiCo)
On Monday, I had the honor of joining the PepsiCo team, community members, and partners in Auburn for this year’s Rolling Remembrance ceremony, a moving event that reminds all of us that honoring service means more than remembering sacrifice. It also means showing up for the families left to carry that loss, and making sure they are met with real support, real opportunity, and real care. That is exactly why the work of Children of Fallen Patriots matters so much. It helps turn remembrance into action, and compassion into something lasting!
 One of the most powerful moments of the day was hearing from Jamila Owens, whose story brought that mission into clear and deeply personal focus. Jamila shared about growing up as the daughter of U.S. Army Sergeant Anthony Owens, the pride she felt in her father’s service, the heartbreak her family experienced through loss, and the strength and values her father instilled in her along the way. Her remarks were thoughtful, heartfelt, and incredibly moving -- not only because of what she has endured, but because of the grace, purpose, and resilience with which she continues to move forward.
Jamila Owens (Photo courtesy of PepsiCo)
What struck me most was Jamila’s journey from uncertainty after her father’s passing to becoming a college graduate and now working for the very organization that once helped lift her up. With the support of Children of Fallen Patriots, she was able to continue her education, graduate from California State University, Long Beach, and build a future that honors her father’s legacy in such a meaningful way. That is the kind of story that stays with you. Jamila is an extraordinary person, and Auburn was fortunate to hear from her. Her courage, her heart, and her commitment to helping others are a beautiful reflection of the very best of what this work can do.
I hope you’ll take a moment to read Jamila’s full remarks. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every act of service is a family, a legacy, and a future worth investing in.
 I also want to thank all of the organizers of this annual event for inviting me to speak, and to my friend and colleague Senator Claire Wilson for joining us this week!
(Photo courtesy of Auburn Little League)
Spring also means baseball and softball -- I know, it feels like the season just ended yesterday, right? With the Mariners back in Seattle and playing a handful of games a week, that also means here in Auburn, our little leaguers are dusting off their bats and mitts for another season at the park.
I hope you can join me on Saturday at the Auburn High School Little League field for the first game of the baseball and softball seasons!
The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. and the first pitch is around noon — wish me luck getting the ball over the plate — now let's play ball!
📅 Saturday, March 28
⏰ 11 a.m.
📍 Auburn High School Little League Field | 711 E Main St.
 peaking of police, I don't think anyone at the City was expecting this heartwarming story of one of our officers to be picked up by People Magazine -- but we aren't complaining!
On Monday, People published a story on Officer McNabb, who rescued a German Shepherd after responding to a scene and seeing the pooch in distress. It was very clear, officers noted, that the dog had been left outside tied to a fence post for more than 24 hours in the rain.
 Quoting the Facebook post our police released about the incident, the story goes that McNabb made sure the dog, which he later named Zeus, got the proper care and attention he needed -- and the best part? After it was all said and done, Officer McNabb adopted him.
"We're happy to share that Zeus has found his forever home… with Officer McNabb, the very person who rescued him!" the Auburn Police Department wrote on Facebook.
Anyone reading this story not from Auburn probably doesn't realize that this level of service and compassion is pretty normal around here!
Thank you Officer McNabb and congratulations to the Auburn Police Department for getting this story in front of hundreds of thousands of readers! I hope I get the chance to meet Zeus in the near future!
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Comedy at the Course
Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only.
📅 Friday, March 27
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)
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Cultures of the Valley Family Day
Free Family Event!
Learn more about some of the cultures that call the valley home in the first of two Family Day programs during our exhibit Shaping the Valley. Join us as we explore Japanese and Marshalles cultures through fun activities and crafts.
Be sure the visit again in May to learn about more cultures that make the Valley great!
All ages welcome!
View more info at www.wrvmuseum.org.
📅 Saturday, March 28
⏰ Noon - 4 p.m.
📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE
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Make and Mingle @ Postmark
Stop by the Postmark for our Make & Mingle session! Join us for a cup of coffee with whatever art project you might be working on. A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to gather... you can talk with other artists, ask for feedback or critique from on-site staff if available, bring your sketchbook to work out ideas, or just quietly draw in the gallery or work on your art! Intended for ages 18+.
📅 Wednesdays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Drop-In Drawing @ Postmark
Come stop by for our new Drop-In Drawing sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to drop-in to draw from a still life or the gallery. Stay for whole two hours or only 10 minutes. Bring tools to either shade or color with, and your own sketchbook or drawing pad. There will be on-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.
Ages: 15+
Registration: $0
Instructor: Postmark Staff
📅 Fridays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Drop-In Painting With Amy Sie @ Postmark
Amy Sie is offering Drop-In Gongbi Painting sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for you to start a new painting, or work on an old one. Please bring your own tools and materials for watercolor painting. On-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.
Ages: 18+
Fee: $0
Instructor: Amy Sie
📅 Fridays
⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Peter Cotton Trail
Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6
Hop through Auburn's parks and trails in search of the elusive bunnies who will be hidden in various locations around Auburn. Find 10 bunnies, submit a scorecard, and get entered for a chance to win some awesome prizes! This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages, including seniors and those in the specialized recreation community. It's a great way to get outside, stay active and enjoy the outdoors!
More info on auburnwa.gov.
📅 Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6
⏰ Dawn to dusk
📍 Various parks
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Gotta Catch 'em All Spring Break Drop-in Days
Create your own set of Pacific Northwest Pokémon cards! Each day we will learn about native creatures from our area and create new Pokémon cards. Be sure to visit each day as we focus on different animals each day!
📅 Wed. April 8 - Fri. April 10
⏰ Noon - 4 p.m.
📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE
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Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra
Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library.
Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes.
This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.
FREE | ALL AGES
📅 Saturday, April 11
⏰ 10 - 11 a.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Second Saturdays - Print Studio OPEN HOUSE
Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events!
Join us for an interactive afternoon of printmaking demos, studio tours, snacks, and giveaways to celebrate the opening of our new print studio!
Our newly renovated lower-level art studios have added around 2,000 square feet of dedicated artmaking space.
Beginning April 1, 2026 artists will be able to enroll in a monthly studio membership and work on their personal projects in our brand new studio space! Stop by the open house to learn more.
This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required.
📅 Saturday, April 11
⏰ Noon - 4 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute
Are you a Swifty? Then we have the show for you! 13 Til Midnight is the Taylor Swift Tribute Band! Performing songs from a wide range of Taylor's albums and eras, from the hits to fan favorite deep cuts. They have something every Taylor Fan!
📅 Saturday, April 11
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St.
💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Blood Drive at Auburn City Hall
Be someone's hero today and donate blood. The Bloodworks Bloodmobile will be located outside City Hall.
- Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience.
- Same-day appointments available at most locations.
- Photo ID required.
- For safety, we kindly request no visitors under 16 at our donation sites.
- Eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donation.
Book your one hour appointment at bloodworksnw.org/giveblood
📅 Tuesday, April 14
⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main Street
🎟️ Register
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Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Class Registration
Class will be held on Wednesday evenings April 29, 2026 through June 13, 2026 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
There will be two Saturday Drills:
May 23, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
June 13, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
CERT training is designed to teach community members how to help themselves and the people around them during and after a disaster. The Auburn CERT class is offered free of charge. Class graduates will receive a backpack, hard hat, a reflective vest, safety goggles, and other gear to keep. Participants are asked to provide their own work gloves and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Register for the class here: www.auburnwa.gov/CERT For more information please call 253-876-1925 or email emergencyprep@auburnwa.gov. Cost: $0
Full info available at www.auburnwa.gov/CERT
📅 Wednesday, April 15
⏰ 6 - 9:30 p.m.
📍 Auburn Emergency Operations Center | 1 E. Main St.
🎟️ Register
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Closing Reception | AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence
Join us for the closing reception of AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence at Postmark Center for the Arts! Visit the gallery and take a last look, enjoy light snacks, and listen to artist talks.
📅 Thursday, April 16
⏰ 5 - 7 p.m..
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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AT Large
Join us for a night of wonderful music with these two award winning musicians from Sequim, WA. This duo combines Amanda Bacon’s amazing vocals with Todd Ortloff’s musical talents on the piano. Amanda & Todd will dazzle you with their flawless harmonies and fabulous stage presence. Come spend and evening with AT Large!
📅 Friday, April 17
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)
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Clean Sweep
Auburn’s 2026 Clean Sweep will be held Saturday, April 18. This event is held in honor of Earth Day. Projects will focus on clean-up, environmental restoration, and beautification efforts in and around Auburn. Volunteer groups will work on light clean-up and maintenance; landscaping, painting, weeding, and planting in and around downtown and at various park sites; and a handful of other projects as needed
Volunteers can either choose to participate in a specific project or can ask to be assigned to any project, in which case your group will be assigned where the most volunteer support is needed. Service clubs, social service agencies, faith-based groups, scouting troops, businesses, families, and individuals are being asked to come together and work on these projects.
Please plan accordingly to bring your own source of water for the 3-hour event.
The morning agenda for Saturday, April 18 is as follows:
7:30 - 8:30 AM …… Optional Check in - Auburn Community & Events Center
7:30 - 8:30 AM ……Optional Welcome Breakfast - Auburn Community & Events Center
8:45 - 9:00 AM ......Check in at project location - emailed in advance
***Be sure to bring your own water to your project***
9:00 - 12:00 PM ......Volunteers commence project tasks
Online Registration closes Wednesday, April 15 at 5:00 PM.
Registrations will not be accepted April 16 or 17. Volunteers interested in participating but have not registered, can register on-site at park locations TBA.
Important Links:
📅 Saturday, April 18
⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon
📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St. SE
🎟️ Register
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Comedy at the Course
Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only.
📅 Saturday, April 18
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)
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Winning Her Wings: Living Voices
Free Program | Appropriate for ages 12 & Up
Who were the first women to fly for the United States military? How did sexism, racism and antisemitism shape the wartime experiences of minority women?
Developed in partnership with the Museum of Flight, Museum of History & Industry, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Boeing.
RSVP to attend - Register Online
📅 Saturday, Apirl 25
⏰ 2 p.m.
📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE
🎟️ Register
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Auburn Symphony Orchestra - Old and New
Step into a world where baroque elegance meets contemporary color. Old and New blends the timeless charm of trio sonatas by Bach and Quantz with the rhythmic sparkle of Ilja Hurnik and the meditative beauty of Hilary Tann’s Shoji, inspired by Japanese paper screens. Auburn Symphony musicians Wendy Wilhelmi (flute), Shannon Spicciati (oboe), Olga Ruvinov (cello), and Lorenzo Marasso (harpsichord) bring this luminous evening to life.
📅 Saturday, April 25
⏰ 7 - 8:30 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Tickets ($36 regular, $12 student)
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Chicago Tribute Authority
Chicago Tribute Authority - brings the legendary sound of Chicago to life with an ensemble of 11 of the Northwest’s most skilled and versatile musicians. With a powerful horn section, dynamic percussion, and outstanding vocal talent, this tribute band delivers a high-energy, authentic performance that captures the spirit and precision of the iconic rock band. Experience the music of Chicago like never before, right here in the Pacific Northwest!!
📅 Saturday, April 25
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St.
💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Our Faces, Our Futures: Auburn Headshots Project (1 of 2)
The Auburn Headshots Project provides free, professional-quality headshots to Auburn residents, photographed by Andy Perkovich. This project supports job seekers, students, and small business owners with a vital career resource while fostering community connection.
This event is free for Auburn residents. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.
Check in with staff upon arrival. Please note that the photographer will be taking individual portraits only, no group photos.
FREE | ALL AGES
📅 Thursday, April 30
⏰ 4 - 7 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Bell Bottom Blues - Tribute to Eric Clapton
Founded in 2019, Bell Bottom Blues quickly became a name in the Tribute scene of the Pacific Northwest. Honoring the extensive catalog of the great Eric Clapton - including Cream & Derek and The Dominos - Bell Bottom Blues' lineup has evolved over the years and continues to thrill crowds from theaters and casinos to wineries and private events. Front man JUSTIN KAUSAL-HAYES (lead vocals and guitar) brings years of experience as a performer and bandleader, striving to recreate Clapton’s sound and feel with every note. Paired with the unmatched guitar skills of co-founding band member SCOTT DONALDSON with his own decades of expertise, they are dedicated to the timeless melodies, driving rhythms, and masterful guitar licks of the iconic artist. Rounding out the band are some of Seattle's most accomplished pro musicians. Their combined talent and passion for this classic music is evident every time they take the stage.
📅 Saturday, May 2
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St.
💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)
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Ranger & the "Re-Arrangers"
Seattle "Gypsy Jazz" band Ranger and the “Re-Arrangers” evoke the spirit of a Paris cafe and the raucous energy of a Romani campsite with their version of Hot Club Swing. At the heart of their sound is tight interplay between two great soloists. Their repertoire includes vocal swing standards, traditional European melodies, the music of Django Reinhardt, and unique originals.
📅 Friday, May 8
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)
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Free Paint Recycling Event
Please register ahead for your preferred drop off time.
All paint recycling is FREE and UNLIMITED! 5-gallon or smaller containers. No need to dry out your paint before you drop it off. Spread the word and invite your friends and neighbors to join in. Together, letʼs make a positive impact on our community and the planet. Donʼt forget to mark your calendars for this exciting event!
PaintCare: What We Can & Can't Take
Before you load the car, check this list! We only accept products designed for "architectural" use—essentially, things you’d use to paint or seal a house.
✅ YES: We Accept These (House & Home)
Products must be in their original containers (5 gallons or smaller) with a readable label.
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House Paint: Interior and exterior (Latex, Oil-based, Enamel).
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Deck & Floor: Deck stains, floor paints, and slip-resistant coatings.
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Preparation: Primers, sealers, and undercoaters.
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Wood Finishes: Stains, varnishes, shellacs, and lacquers (single-part only).
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Waterproofing: Clear sealers for wood, concrete, or masonry (like Thompson's).
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Metal: Rust-preventative paints and metal coatings.
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Sports Fields: Paint used for grass/lawns or sports fields.
❌ NO: We Cannot Accept These
If it’s for a car, a boat, a craft project, or a roof, we likely can’t take it.
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Construction Materials: Stucco, grout, plaster, joint compound, and cement-based products.
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Aerosols: Anything in a spray can.
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Chemicals: Paint thinners, mineral spirits, solvents, and deck cleaners.
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Adhesives: Glues, caulking, epoxies, and 2-part resins.
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Vehicles: Auto paint and marine (boat) paint.
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Roofing: Tar, asphalt, bitumen-based sealers, or roof patch/repair.
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Industrial: Road-marking paint or heavy industrial coatings.
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Small Projects: Tiny bottles of craft or art paint.
For all events, we ask that attendees stay in their cars. Event staff will direct you to drop-off lanes where we will unload everything for you. This ensures a safe and efficient process.
For questions, please email events@greensheenpaint.com
📅 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Pioneer Elementary School | 2301 M St. SE
🎟️ Register
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Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra
Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library.
Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes.
This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.
FREE | ALL AGES
📅 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 10 - 11 a.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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Second Saturdays - Calico Dress #9 Workshop (1 of 2)
Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events!
1PM - 4PM
Calico Dress #9 Workshop with Jen Treese (1 of 2)
Kirstie Macleod's Red Dress Project started an international movement of community-created garments, and in 2025 Seattle started it's own dress! Join facilitator Jen Treese and participate in a community embroidery event held over two sessions, on May 9th and May 30th.
Participants are invited to add their own piece of hand embroidery to a shared dress. Through embroidery, the stories and cultures of Auburn will be captured on fabric to be shared and celebrated for years to come.
No prior skill is needed and all materials will be provided! Jen is happy to provide instruction to those interested in learning more about embroidery.
This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.
FREE | ALL AGES
📅 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 1 - 4 p.m.
📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.
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How could Officer McNabb NOT adopt this???
 Auburn is rich with history — from historical Main Street to the artifacts preserved throughout White River Valley Museum — I am excited to share these stories with all of you each week.
(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)
Auburn Police taking part in a Valley SWAT team training near B Street NW, 1994. SWAT (Special Weapons And Tactics) teams are trained in using military equipment and tactics to respond to unusual crime and safety concerns, including bomb threats, mass shootings, hostage situations, and drug arrests. After the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act in 1990, the Department of Defense began providing surplus military equipment to local police departments and SWAT teams to assist in drug- and terrorism-related law enforcement. Valley SWAT, also called VSWAT, is a multi-department SWAT team made up of members of the Auburn, Kent, Des Moines, Federal Way, Tukwila, Renton and the Port of Seattle police departments.
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