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Summer businesses aren't ready for early hot weather

SEATTLE — With temperatures forecast to be in the 80s, Helen Gebreziabher skipped her morning job Wednesday and rented a bike to peddle around Alki Beach.  

"It was nice weather and I have to take advantage of this," she said.

She was lucky to find Alki Kayak Tours open for business on a Wednesday.   

Just down the beach, Wheel Fun Rentals was closed. A sign indicated the company was still hiring, and open only on weekends in April and May if the weather permits opening.  

That's generally the same hours of operation for the Green Lake Boathouse. Its website said it was open weekends only until Memorial Day.  

On Wednesday however, there were paddleboats and paddleboards on the water. Boathouse employees said they have been closely watching the forecast, and not just waiting for weekends to open if it is sunny and warm.

"It's tough because some of the staff is still going to college and school and various other occupations," Thomas Taugher said.

He added that it's been a scramble at times. Some workers have had to pull double duty by serving up coffee at the concession in between boat rentals.  

Taugher was not complaining.   

"It's fun, but it's mayhem at the same time.  You just get used to it," he said.