ACRL College & Research Libraries News

College & Research Libraries News

Seattle ’84

Kiana Lodge on the Kitsap Peninsula.

One of the pleasures of attending a national convention is meeting with your colleagues in an informal setting and exchanging news and ideas, as well as making new friends. Seattle ’84 has several special events planned to provide you with an opportunity to enjoy each other’s company and sample a little of the cultural life of Seattle. The conference will feature a reception and private showing of the “China: 7,000 Years of Discovery” exhibition, an “Evening on the Town,” and a ferry ride to Kiana Lodge for a salmon bake on the beach.

The opening night reception is scheduled after the exhibitors’ new product seminars and the opening of the exhibits. A catered, private showing of “China: 7,000 Years of Discovery” should provide conference participants with a memorable first evening. The display was seen by over one million people in Toronto in four months, and its appearance in Seattle will be the only one in the Western United States. The exhibition is a collaborative effort of the governments of Canada and the Peoples Republic of China. It examines many of the important innovations of ancient Chinese science. The display consists of over 500 artifacts divided into twelve major categories including medicine, papermaking, printing, astronomy, and architecture. Eighteen Chinese artisans will participate in the exhibition, practicing the arts of traditional Chinese science and technology. Conference participants will be able to mingle with the artisans, trying their hands at calligraphy, carving their own seals, pumping water with the dragon bone irrigation pump, and experimenting with other ancient crafts. “China: 7,000 Years of Discovery” demonstrates that much of the history of science is written in Chinese.

Thursday evening will be a chance for everyone to choose their own entertainment. A selection of athletic and cultural events will be offered, and conference participants will be given information for ordering tickets as well as a list of fine restaurants adjacent to each event. This “Evening on the Town” is also designed for those participants who like to explore a city on their own or with friends, and for those who simply wish to pass an evening with good food and good friends. In addition, the hospitality booth at the convention will have lots of information for those who wish to “freelance” on Thursday evening.

Seattle ’84’s special events will be capped with a sunset ferry ride and a salmon banquet. Friday evening will begin with a ferry ride across the Puget Sound to Kiana Lodge on the Kitsap Peninsula. After arrival at the Lodge’s dock fresh steamed clams will be served on the beach and there will be dancing and music by the Cape Fox Indian Dancers. This group is known throughout the Pacific Northwest for their skill and expertise in presenting authentic productions of Northwest Native American dances, music, and legends. Kiana Lodge, built in 1920, was originally known as the Seattle Beach and Country Club. It is a traditional log structure with stone fireplaces, wood carvings, a large collection of Northwest Indian baskets, and an old bar with a piano. The Longhouse, a short walk from the Lodge, is a beautiful atrium-like dining area where the banquet of salmon baked over open alderwood fires, salad, baked potato, rolls, dessert, and beverages will be served. After the banquet participants may want to explore the over ten acres of grounds or visit the Kiana gift shop which features a wide assortment of Northwest Indian handicrafts. The ferry ride back will provide a beautiful view of Seattle’s skyline at night. ■ ■