Food & Drink

Oil Rigs, Cuddle Clubs & More News

The top Seattle news stories you should be reading today

By Alene Bouranova May 13, 2015

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If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it: Pronto Cycle Share announced Monday that self-serve helmet bins will become a permanent part of its bike-sharing system. Previously, the helmet bins operated on the honor system; riders will now have to enter a code to receive a helmet. Annual Pronto users will be able to access helmets for free while 24-hour and three-day users will have to pay $2 per pass period. Pronto is the first bike-share company in North America to provide helmets at every station. For more information visit prontocycleshare.com

Seattle vs. “Seattle”: Amazon’s “Life in Seattle” recruiting video is viral thanks to local efforts. The Northwest-is-best video is the subject of two parodies: one by Sub Pop Records and the other by Seattle rapper Spekulation. The orginal paints Seattle as a quirky, easy-going utopia full of smiles and sun-drenched outdoorsiness. The parodies are a little grungier. “If you’re rich in Seattle, you’ll love it!” says a Spekulation voiceover. Sub Pop’s version is particularly Seattle-esque: “The stress levels here are suuuuuper chill,” says one woman, taking a drag on her vape pen. 

Harbor Wars: Royal Dutch Shell is parking two Arctic oil drilling rigs in the Seattle harbor, according to the Associated Press. The Noble Discoverer and Polar Pioneer will come to Terminal 5 despite protests from residents and concerns over appropriate use permits. The Port of Seattle leased Shell’s parent company, Foss Maritime, 50 acres of space in Terminal 5 in early January. However, city officials argue that the terminal’s permit only allows for cargo operations. Shell is parking the rigs regardless; both should arrive within the week. 

Good news for soccer and LEGO fans: Toy company OYO Sports is now selling Sounders FC mini-figures. For $12.99 you can purchase a collectible “Mystery Fan” figure, complete with a miniature Sounders scarf, water bottle, and team logo stand. Each MLS-licensed package contains one of three figures. Collect all three at Amazon, Lids, or OYO Sports (heads up- they’re cheapest if you buy directly from the manufacturer!).

No more free hugs: West Seattle now has its very own Cuddle Club, according to King 5. Professional cuddler Lashanna Williams opened The Cuddle Club on Fauntleroy Way to create a space for people to feel safe and nurtured. Women’s Health Mag says cuddling can lower stress, raise serotonin levels, and even strengthen your immune system. If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, you can come and cuddle with Williams starting at $45 per session. For more information or to book an appointment visit cuddleclubseattle.com.

 

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