Tonight:

Damali Ayo's new book, Obamistan! Land Without Racism, is a funny, confrontational book that satirizes Obama-era sentimentalism by (sarcastically) envisioning a nation without racism.

The book sounds funny, but it's also an opportunity to check out the new Elliott Bay Books, if you haven't yet. It doesn't have the feeling of vastness the old store had, but it still has a ton of books, as well an ideal location: next to a big record shop, around the corner from an ice cream shop, and across from Cal Anderson Park.

Tonight at 7 pm, at Elliott Bay Books (1521 10th Avenue).

Tomorrow Night:

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is holding an open house on the viaduct and seawall replacement tomorrow. (This summer, WSDOT plans to dismantle the southernmost portion of the viaduct).  Their plans have come under fire from critics, including the People's Waterfront Coalition, who say WSDOT failed to adequately consider the risks of building the tunnel portal in Pioneer Square.



WSDOT managers will field questions and present exhibits from a hearing last week at the open house.

Tomorrow night at 6 pm at Madison Middle School (3429 45th Avenue SW).

Tomorrow's Full Calendar:


Paramount Duty is a film about the state of public education in Washington State, made by Peter Vogt, vice president of the Northwest Film Forum board of directors, and Nick Hanauer, president of the League of Education Voters. The film's debut, which includes a Q&A with "state and city leaders" and Tom Ahearne, the lead attorney in a case charging the state with violating its constitution by failing to adequately fund education, is tomorrow at the Northwest Film Forum.

Tuesday at 7 pm, with a Q&A at 8 pm. Northwest Film Forum (1515 12th Avenue). Free.


Sherwin Bitsui and Sherman Alexie are two poets; I know for a fact that at least one of them is fantastic. They'll read from their new work tomorrow at Elliott Bay Books.

Tuesday at 7 pm, at Elliott Bay Book Company (1521 10th Avenue).

The World Affairs Council presents "Culture Through Cuisine," a dinner followed by discussion and lecture on Turkish cuisine by food writer and cooking instructor Sheilah Kaufman.

Tuesday at 6:00 p.m (registration) at Bistro Turkuaz (1114 34th Avenue). Tickets are $35 members/students, $50 non-members.