Leslie's Blog

Protest Rally, Thurs. July 24th -- "Against" Proposed Two-way Mercer Street Transit Plan and "For" Elevated Viaduct

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:10:19 -0500

There is going to be a protest rally tomorrow from 3-4 p.m. on the Seattle City Hall steps regarding the proposed two-way Mercer Street Transit Plan and to show support for an elevated viaduct. If either of these subjects interest you, please tell your friends and show up! The City Hall is at 600 4th Avenue.

Most people I have spoken to while campaigning want to keep an elevated viaduct. They feel like it is vitally important to the health of the city. You can read all about the subject on No Big Dig.

My campaign website is: www.blossforthe36th.com

Queen Anne, Magnolia, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

Did You Know That Wisteria Can Create Problems if it Grows on Your House?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:26:22 -0500

We all love our Wisteria. What you may not know is that it will grow right into your house. If you have it climbing on your porch or up the side of the house you need to be aware of this. Whenever I go by someone’s house that has this lovely plant in these areas I have the urge to knock on their door and tell them how much damage they may eventually get.

I've Been Thinking about Energy Options

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:15:52 -0500

A friend was telling me about an article he had read about mini nuclear reactors so I found information on it. "Mini Reactors Show Promise for Clean Nuclear Power's Future," by Phaedra Hise, published in Popular Mechanics on July 15, 2008. They talk about NuScale Power that has been developed by the engineering department at Oregon State. The containment unit is 14 ft. The whole unit sits below ground and can be manufactured cheaply. Each 45-megawatt electrical unit would generate enough power for about 45,000 homes.

A few weeks ago I rode over to Spokane with another friend and while driving in eastern Washington he asked why can't we put windmills in the area between the freeways here? It is something to consider.

Also I found an article about classes for electric vehicle conversion workshops. These were at South Seattle Community College in the Continuing Education Department at West Seattle. This particular class was taught in June but maybe they are scheduling more.

We need to get the price of electricity down!

If you Wonder if Washington State Needs to be More Fiscally Responsible Read This!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:21:06 -0500

The front page of the Sunday Times had an article "How state spending rose $8B under Gregoire" by Andrew Garber. "Already, the state Senate Ways and Means Ciommittee projects a $2.7 billion shortfall when the Legislature meets in January to write the next two year budget."

When Washington has this kind of spending problem wouldn't it be nice to have the tax income from the tribal casinos that Gregoire has decided that we do not need? In The Seattle P.I. article "Tribes give big to Gregoire, avoid sharing casino cash" by Chris McGann you can see how much money the tibes have been making and it doesn't look like it was really a hardship for them to pay the taxes.

BY THE NUMBERS: INDIAN CASINOS AND COMPACT WITH STATE

Twenty-one tribes in Washington operate 27 casinos under a compact with the state. Unlike some states where the tribes and the state have agreed to share revenue, Washington state receives no tax money from Indian gambling.

Annual revenue of tribal casinos in Washington state:

2005: $1.02 BILLION

2006: $1.19 BILLION

2007: $1.34 BILLION

FROM 18,225 TO 27,300: Total number of gambling terminals allowed in Indian casinos before latest compact and then afterward.

FROM $5 TO $20: Wagering limit on certain machines before latest compact and then afterward (15% of machines).

$604,131: Contributions to state Democratic Party from tribes since 2004.

$1.6 MILLION: Contributions to Gov. Chris Gregoire's campaign from Democratic Party since 2004.

$49,000: Direct contributions from tribes to her since 2004.

Sources: Washington state; Public Disclosure Commission

Remember when you go to vote in the Primary on August 19th try to vote for someone that is fiscally responsible--I'm one of those!

My campaign website is: www.blossforthe36th.com

See the Positive Things the U.S. Army Has Been Doing in Iraq!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:50:08 -0500

This morning a friend of mine, Lena Hunt, sent an email talking about how she and her husband “had the pleasure of hearing Col. Debra Lewis talk about all of the projects that are going on in Iraq. You do not typically find this in the media–it is a good tool to pass on to people that think we are occupying this country blowing up buildings and people and taking their oil.” I was really happy to take a look and thought it was important to pass it on.

The website is from the Gulf Region Division of the Army Corps of Engineers. The link is: http://www.grd.usace.army.mil/index.asp

My campaign website is: www.blossforthe36th.com

Fremont Oktoberfest (Seattle, Washington)

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:21:34 -0500

I attended the Fremont Chamber of Commerce meeting today. Seattle Council Member, Nick Licata was there talking about the Mercer Street Plan. After that there was information given about the upcoming Chamber of Commerce's Fremont Oktoberfest. "The mission is to promote the Fremont neighborhood, area merchants, and to provide funding for local art groups, schools, and community events."

The Fremont Oktoberfest, "was voted as one of the Top Ten Oktoberfests in the world by USA Today." They do some serious microbrew beer tasting!

Check out the link for more information and click on the little Oktoberfest icon. By the way, they are looking for "adult" volunteers.

People will find these activities much tamer than the Fremont Street Fair. They mentioned that the "Kids Area" is probably for kids up through 4 years of age:

Friday, September 19th

Stranger Microbrew Garden

Saturday, September 20th

Stranger Microbrew Garden

11am -12am

Kids Area/Food Booths/Beck's Beer Garden

11am-6pm

Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving Contest

1pm

Sunday, September 21st

Brew HA-HA 5K Run

10:00am

Street Scramble

10:30am

MOViN Rehab Party and Award Ceremony

10:30am-1200pm

Stranger Microbrew Garden

11:10am-6:00pm

Kids Area/Food Booths/Beek's Beer Garden

11am-6pm

Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving Contest

1:00pm

CityDog Cover Dog Model Search

3:00pm

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website

I Received Three Endorsements Today

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:15:59 -0500

I did receive three endorsements today:

State Senator Bob McCaslin, King County Council Member Jane Hague, and The WISH List. The WISH List is the nation's largest political fundraising network for progressive Republican women. It has been a good day!

In the future if anyone wants information on running for office--I would be happy to talk to them. It will have to wait until after the middle of November though.

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website

ENDORSEMENT FROM SEATTLE-KING COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®--NOT

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:30:22 -0500

I received the letter from SKCAR:

On behalf of the Seattle-King County Association of REALTORS®, we thank you for meeting with our candidate interview team. We congratulate your decision to run for election and appreciate your interest and time in discussing important issues relating to real estate and land use with our members.

The candidate ratings (numeric scale with 100 points representing the maximum or highest rating) as listed below have been approved by the Seattle-King County Association of REALTORS®:

36th District, State Representative, Position 1:

Reuven Carlyle, Endorsed, Candidate Rating = 95

Leslie Bloss, Candidate Rating = 86

John Burbank, Candidate Rating = 69

While the interview team did not recommend an endorsement for your campaign, the decision was reached only after considerable discussion. Your qualifications, knowledge, and the articulate manner in which you discussed the issues made a very favorable impression.

So, do you think I came in second because they compared how much money he has raised or his connections? I understand...but I am like "the little engine that could."

I believe when people listen to my message of wanting to save the viaduct; opposing a state income tax (which both of my opponents want); fix our schools; and eliminate traffic congestion; along with the fact that I am liberal with social issues--but fiscally responsible and that I want to represent the voters and give them a voice--they will start paying attention.

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website

Public Nudity in Seattle--UPDATED

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:12:14 -0500

Did you know that public nudity is not against the law in Seattle? Indecent exposure was found to be unconstitutional. There is only an arrest if there is a disturbance created or a formal complaint. I thought this was very interesting.

Here is the Washington State Law (RCW) that speaks to nudity in public. Also, I have attached a link about an article that was written about this very issue. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/323940_naked17.html Thank you for contacting the Customer Service Bureau

Virginia Swanson 7/14/2008 9:44 AM: Shana, here's the language from Law Department that may be helpful: (1) A person is guilty of indecent exposure if he or she intentionally makes any open and obscene exposure of his or her person or the person of another knowing that such conduct is likely to cause reasonable affront or alarm. The act of breastfeeding or expressing breast milk is not indecent exposure.

(2)(a) Except as provided in (b) and (c) of this subsection, indecent exposure is a misdemeanor. (b) Indecent exposure is a gross misdemeanor on the first offense if the person exposes himself or herself to a person under the age of fourteen years. (c) Indecent exposure is a class C felony if the person has previously been convicted under this section or of a sex offense as defined in RCW 9.94A.030 ( http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9.94A.030 ).

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website

We Need to Save the Alaskan Way Viaduct!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 14:33:01 -0500

One of the major transportation issues is the Alaskan Way Viaduct--I want to see it repaired! It can be repaired and it can be made safe. So much commerce begins with the Port of Seattle and many businesses would be irreparably harmed if there was down-time on SR 99 (Aurora). We cannot afford to do without it at this time-and we do not need to if we start listening to the engineers that have the voter's interest at heart rather than the politicians.

One of my opponents wants a surface street solution--I do not see that as a viable solution. Can you imagine all of those trucks going through downtown Seattle? What a nightmare that would be!

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website and the campaign blog is: http://emeraldcitytalk.com/wordpress/

Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

Are You Registered to Vote In Washington State?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:33:34 -0500

Haiden running in the park--remember the old "Clairol" Commercials?

You may call this post a public service announcement. I received the following information regarding voter's registration from the Secretary of State website. I think people should be involved in what goes on in their State and not just the Presidential elections--they may be amazed at how much impact they can have at the local level.

Voter Registration:

• Voters have until July 19, 2008, to register to vote or update their registration for the August 19 Primary.

• Citizens not currently registered in Washington State have until August 4, 2008, to register in-person at their local election office.

• Washington has a statewide voter registration database that screens the voter rolls for duplicate registrations, felons, and deceased persons.

Seattle, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Greenwood, Phinney Ridge and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

The Washington State Budget & Policy Center

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:14:43 -0500

I love The Washington State Budget & Policy Center I think it is a very good resource and feel everyone should receive and read their updates. I became aware of the organization last Summer.

The following is their Mission Statement:

"Our mission is to use research and analysis to advance the well-being of Washington communities, improve the economic security and social opportunity of all Washingtonians, and support the essential role of government in promoting a just and prosperous society."

Here are some of the things they have recently written about that are on their website:

"A Working Families Credit for Washington State"

"On Point: Better Choices for Economic Security"

"House Budget Maintains Commitments but Misses Opportunity to Invest in Economic Security" by Jeff Chapman & Remy Trupin

"Governor's Budget: Important Investments, Long-Term Challenges" by Jeff Chapman & Remy Trupin

The Washington State Budget & Policy Center is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization registered in the state of Washington. Their organization is fully funded through the charitable contributions of individuals, foundations, and organizations.

Their website is: http://www.budgetandpolicy.org/, go there and read up on some of these important issues.

I am all about educating voters. Leslie Bloss: www.blossforthe36th.com

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website and the campaign blog is: http://emeraldcitytalk.com/wordpress/

Mercer Mess and Streetcar Network Information

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:38:31 -0500

Today, I spoke with Nick Licata of the Seattle City Council. He is the one lone member of the Seattle City Council that is being vocal about what a bad idea the proposed fix for Mercer Street that Mayor Nickels has been pushing. I called him to tell him that I think there should be a State Referendum on the ballot. I need to do some research regarding that.

Anyway, Councilman Licata had some information sent to me regarding the streetcar network and the Mercer Project and some information on forums that will be coming up soon. He'll be speaking at the Fremont Chamber of Commerce meeting at noon on the 16th.

Below are the dates of the forums, and the link to the news release:

Tuesday, July 8th - Proposed Ballard/Fremont Line at Nordic Heritage Museum, 3014 NW 67 Street, 4-6pm

Wednesday, July 9th - Proposed U-District Line at University Heights Center, 5031 University Way NE, 4-6pm

Tuesday, July 15th - Proposed First Hill Line at Yesler Community Center, 917 E. Yesler Way, 4-6pm

http://www.seattle.gov/council/newsdetail.asp?ID=8599&Dept=28

The following is an email that Councilman Licata is sending out to Ballard and Crown Hill folks regarding the streetcar network:

Streetcar Network Forum Tuesday, July 8 4-6 p.m. Nordic Heritage Museum, 3014 NW 56th

I am e-mailing you as a resident or business owner in Ballard, Crown Hill, and nearby areas regarding the potential for a streetcar network in Seattle, how that might be funded, and how it might affect bus service in your neighborhood on routes 17, 18 and 28.

City Councilmember Jan Drago will be hosting a forum on a potential Fremont-Ballard Streetcar line on Tuesday, July 8 at the Nordic Heritage Museum.

The Seattle Department of Transportation is proposing a potential Fremont-Ballard Streetcar line that would run along from Downtown on Westlake to the Fremont Bridge, then over the bridge to 36th, then head westbound on 36th and Leary Way NW, then turn onto NW 46th, on to either Leary Way or Ballard Avenue, with a turnback adjacent to the Ballard Commons at 22nd NW and NW 57th.

Cost: the estimated cost of the line is $135 million. As with the South Lake Union Streetcar, likely around ½ the cost would be funded by nearby property owners. In order to fund 50% of construction, property owners near this line would need to pay approximately 2.2% of the assessed value of their property. For a $300,000 property, this would total $6,600.

The estimated annual O&M cost is $5.4 million. In order to fund operations, the Network Development Report proposes cuts in Metro service that could affect bus lines 17, 18 and 28.

There are no specifics at this point, but the preliminary operating cost summary assumed that 14,000 of the 80,000 hours in bus service on these lines would be cut. Any streetcar replacement would likely provide fewer hours of service, because streetcars cost 50% more to operate than a Metro bus. On the South Lake Union Streetcar, around 11,000 hours of service are provided at a cost of $2 million annually. 16,500 bus hours could be provided at the same cost.

As a Ballard/Crown Hill area resident, I thought you would be interested in knowing about this meeting, and encourage you to attend, find out more, and express your opinion.

I am going to post three attachments from him on my other blog: “Mercer Project Environmental Assessment Transportation Report , Summary of Key Points;” Letters to the Seattle Community Council from the Queen Anne Community Council and the Magnolia Community Club discussing their opposition to the 2-Way Mercer Transportation Project; and “STREETCARS AND MEETING SEATTLE’S TRANSIT NEEDS,” by Council Member Nick Licata

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website and the campaign blog is: http://emeraldcitytalk.com/wordpress/

Seattle, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

P.S. The picture is of Collin my youngest grandchild born December 17, 2007.

What's New With the Aurora Bridge?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 15:23:39 -0500

Some of you may have not kept up-to-date on what is being planned for the Aurora Bridge. WSDOT (Washington State Department of Transportation) is planning a fence to line the Aurora Bridge. “The Washington State Legislature approved design funding for the Aurora Bridge fence project in the 2008 legislative session. Design work is under way on the fence, with construction starting in spring 2010.”

You may be wondering “why?” Since its construction, in 1931, the Aurora Bridge has been used by approximately 250 people to attempt suicide. Unfortunately, few of them realize Aurora is over nearly as much ground as water – and more and more people work, live or simply travel beneath the bridge.

The group “Seattle F.R.I.E.N.D.S.” organized to get a safety barrier constructed on Aurora to keep the people beneath the bridge safe as well as the folks attempting to jump to their deaths. The Seattle F.R.I.E.N.D.S. web site has links to three studies that show barriers do deter suicides.

When the Aurora Bridge was built, over 75 years ago, perhaps 100 people lived and worked beneath it. In late 2008, another office building standing in the shadow of the bridge will finish construction and bring the number of people living and working beneath Aurora closer to 2,000. Several residents and employees have spoken with horror about encountering a death, of the trauma of being witness to a jump. So far though, many people feel fortunate – no one has been physically hurt or killed by a body falling from the bridge deck.

Other options have been considered instead of a barrier, or fence.

A safety net slung beneath the bridge, to catch jumpers, would cost similar to a barrier in construction, according to Washington State Department Of Transportation (WSDOT) estimates, but more in maintenance, cleaning (as it would catch litter) and frequent replacement.

Removal of pedestrian/bike access on the bridge was the first consideration of Seattle F.R.I.E.N.D.S., and it was quickly removed from the table. Both the City of Seattle and WSDOT have gone on the record stating their absolute determination to maintain all forms of transportation on the bridge. WSDOT analysis has shown sidewalk removal could lead bicyclists to use the vehicular surface, which could lead to an entirely new form of tragedy. Finally, this option does not deter those contemplating suicide from driving onto the bridge deck and pulling over.

The option of an enclosed walkway underneath Bridge, running the half-mile of the bridge surface and attached beneath it, was proposed in 2002. The project came estimated at $29 million, which today works out closer to $50 million. Representatives from FRIENDS have voiced safety concerns about an enclosed structure with limited access, where crime could breed.

A barrier built onto the historic structure won’t meet approval of all. The bridge is owned by Washington State and falls under management of WSDOT. However, the City of Seattle held a public workshop and design open house to discuss design issues. They’ve also done extensive outreach, to try to provide a platform for concerns among those who live and work closest to the bridge.

Many hold concerns about the historical nature of the bridge. The bridge structure is on the National Register of Historic Places, the Washington Heritage Register and is a designated landmark by the Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board. Design of a barrier within these guidelines, and one that neither detracts nor overwhelms the existing structure isn’t going to be easy to do.

Without a final design, barrier construction is estimated at $4.3 million. That price includes physical costs, traffic control, permits (including those needed to make changes to a historic structure) and design. In March 2008, the State of Washington House and Senates passed a transportation budget that included $1.6 million dollars of this money, as authorized by Governor Christine Gregoire, to begin design and construction.

A very good article about this was written entitled "A matter of life and death" VIEW FROM THE KIRB/Kirby Lindsay 01/24/2008 for the Pacific Publishing Company.

For more information, check out www.seattlefriends.org., or check their MySpace and facebook pages. Also, you can read more about the issue from under the bridge at http://www.pacificpublishingcompany.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19228896&BRD=855&PAG=461&dept_id=517907&rfi=8 And WSDOT Projects has information on their website.

Hey, Did you know my grandmother is running for WA State Rep.?

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my campaign website and the campaign blog is: http://emeraldcitytalk.com/wordpress/

Be Careful Whom You Vote For!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:11:03 -0500

I've been busy with my campaign for Washington State House Representative in the 36th District. Some of that time has been spent participating with my opponents at different locations in question and answer forums. It has been very worthwhile. It gives us all an insight into where our opponents are coming from.

Both of my opponents want to have a state income tax. I am vehemently opposed to this. I feel we need to spend our tax money more wisely. You would be impressed by how Reuven Carlyle and John Burbank deliver their messages—they are very fast talkers and quite smooth—I would like that same kind of delivery. But to me what is important is the message (not the delivery). I am much more direct and without much fluff—and certainly much more fiscally responsible!

I am the moderate Republican. If you want to go to my website it is: blossforthe36th.com

P.S. I have changed this post because what I thought I heard Reuven Carlyle say about a "Citizen's Legislature" is either not what he said or meant.

GAO is taking another look at the $35 billion Air Force tanker contract

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:19:11 -0500

There is an article "GAO Favors Boeing In Tanker Contract Dispute" from KIROTV.com that just came up. It says "The Government Accountability Office said Wednesday that it found "a number of significant errors that could have affected the outcome of what was a close competition between Boeing and Northrop Grumman."

This is very good news for The Boeing Company.

If you are interested is seeing the website for my political campaign (I am running for Washington State House Rep. 36th District, Position #1) it is blossforthe36th.com. It has been very interesting, lots of fun and I will be an expert at campaigning by the time this is all over!

Well No the New Picture Doesn't Make me Look 15 Years Younger

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:56:54 -0500

I was over due in updating my picture. Since the campaign regulations say that a picture cannot be over 5 years old--oh darn and oh well--had to do it. This is getting to be quite a project. I had to go out suit shopping before I went to an important meeting with constituents--did I mention I only like shopping for plants, cookbooks, kitchen items and stocks.

Well, as you can see I found one, mom hemmed up the sleeves and pant legs (since I am vertically challenged) and I had the picture taken. Now, my advisor said that the background needs to be changed. So, I went suit shopping again to see if I could also find something not as stark. Those Nordstrom and Macy shopping assistants are so very helpful--especially to someone that cannot put colors together.

For those of you that do not know, I am running for the 36th District, House of Representative Seat, Position #1 in the State of Washington. "To know me is to love me" (LOL). Check out blossforthe36th.com to read about my views on the issues. I am still working on a new blog.

The Seattle City Council is Having the Transportation Talk About Working on Mercer Street --View it Live

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:23:36 -0500

The Seattle City Council is meeting this morning. The meeting started at 9:00 and I am unable to attend because I have an appointment at 10:00 that I cannot miss. You can view this live right now. Why this is important is that they will be talking about working on Mercer Street (we know it as the Mercer Mess). I heard about this on the KOMO radio this morning. They said that it is not going to relieve traffic problems--it will be benefiting Paul Allen's Lake Union project.

If you are reading this post too late here is the link to the Seattle City Council home page.

Blossforthe36th.com is the link to my new website for my campaign for the state house seat I am still working on a new blog site.

Wow – I had a Great Meeting With Suzie Burke (President of the Fremont Dock Company)

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:02:56 -0500

On Thursday, I called Suzie Burke of the Fremont Dock Company and told her that I was going to be running for the State House Seat, Position #1 in the 36^th District. She said “Why don’t you come over and we will talk about it.” So Friday, I spent a few hours in her conference room listening to her concerns and ideas. I wish I had brought a tape recorder.

We talked about transportation which included the “Mercer Mess” (which is a pain for so many of us) and how she feels we could fix it by starting from Elliott and going east. When Aurora is reached, a lid could be put over it or a tunnel could be bored under and then connect to Mercer. One of the most important things she said is that this work needs to be done before any more condos are built!

We also discussed the Alaskan Way viaduct. I mentioned that I had heard that only a section of the viaduct had a large a problem and Suzie said it is actually only four pillars. She went into more detail and suggested I speak with Gene Hoglund. I spoke with him yesterday and he sent me the following information:

The easiest web address to use for promotion is www.wffes.org <http://www.wffes.org>

Please bookmark this address, and remember when you tell others.

The No Tunnel Alliance campaign web site has been closed, to save hosting cost. The NTA blog remains - the web address, www.notunnelalliance.com <http://www.notunnelalliance.com> now loads the NTA blog.

Gene is a member of the stakeholder advisory committee and sent me this information also:

April 24, 2008 Meeting

Meeting agenda
Potential SR 99 Building Blocks overview
Public comment summary (from March 15 to April 10) – also available online on the meeting materials page
(www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/Viaduct/library-meetingmaterials.htm <http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/Viaduct/library-meetingmaterials.htm> ) or you can directly link to it at:
www.wsdot.wa.gov/NR/rdonlyres/40F981C9-65B3-4D36-805F-418FAD4C7D9C/0/SAC_public_comments_AprilSAC_FINAL.pdf <http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/NR/rdonlyres/40F981C9-65B3-4D36-805F-418FAD4C7D9C/0/SAC_public_comments_AprilSAC_FINAL.pdf> (please note that if you use a Mac you will need to copy and paste the link into the browser)

The viaduct is what the service trucks use and the thought of shutting it down for any length of time is frightening. She gave me a very large number of cars that daily utilize the viaduct but I didn’t capture it. If the viaduct can be retrofitted and safe, why don't we just get on with it—we have much better places to put our money!

Suzie mentioned “Bridging The Gap” and explained how bonds were voted on to do certain projects and the money is not going for what it was supposed to be spent on and guess what—they will be coming back for more bond money. Suzie said “What will they call it next time?”

I mentioned that schools are a very important issue to me as it is with Suzie. She pointed to how successful F. B. Day is and attributes its success to the excellent work being done by the principal. They operate on about $4,000 per child.

I mentioned that when the schools get 50% of the tax money (which they are supposed to according to the State Constitution) that I feel Seattle should be having excellent schools all around. I would like to see a performance audit on the Seattle Schools to see if the money is being spent as wisely as it can.

Her next “hot button” was utilities. I need to look into how money collected from our water bill is being spent. Susie pointed out that there is not a breakdown. Often money is placed in the “General Fund” and then can be spent anyway someone wants rather than how it was intended. Susie asks “why is it that when Washington State has so much water that generates electricity—why should our water and electric bills keep going up?”

She suggests making a reduction in the water and electric bills—this would give immediate relief to pocket books that have to spend so much more for food and gasoline.

Regarding gasoline, another thing Suzie brought up was about people retrofitting their cars to run on electricity. It is great for our environment but the cost of electricity is very prohibitive. She also pointed out that the battery packs used when a car is retrofitted are small and not so damaging to the environment when they need to be disposed of.

I also met two of Suzie’s daughters. Her daughter, Kirby Lindsay, told me about all the businesses that are along the Burke-Gilman trail. “High paying jobs that some people may feel are noisy.” We need to be mindful that the city needs those jobs!

There was so much more that came out of the meeting that I want to research before I share. I plan to go to other areas of my district and, hopefully, find other’s like Suzie Burke and her daughter Kirby that are willing to take the time to share their concerns and ideas on important issues.

Anti-Auto Interests Hijack Viaduct Process

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 05 May 2008 03:27:48 -0500

Now I am getting a little ticked off with the Governor, Mayor and the King County Executive--I guess they were not listening when the voters said they didn't want the viaduct torn down. There are engineers that will share facts and data about how there are only four pillars that are a problem--and that they can be fixed. We are being led with scare tactics to convince us that we need to go along with their plan. SDOT is going to have meetings to explain to us how they plan to proceed. Check out SR 99 - Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement and read all about it.

WSDOT, King County and the City of Seattle are hosting three viaduct open houses in May - on May 8 in downtown Seattle, May 13 in West Seattle, and May 15 in Ballard. Come learn about our progress and the plan to take down the viaduct by 2012. Visit Public Events for more information.
View photos of the recent viaduct inspection and public tour.
The next Stakeholder Advisory Committee meeting will be held May 8. Check Public Events for the meeting time and location and the Library for meeting materials.

Someone suggested to me to look at soundpolitics.com for an analysis of the tunnel option vote: The better Viaduct opinion poll gives a very interesting post. Within the post is a KING-5/SurveyUSA poll that is worth reading.

Now is the time to say "ENOUGH"!!! The City, County and State cannot afford to do this work, the businesses that rely on the viaduct to provide the service transportation would not survive the downtime, let alone there not being a workable solution to move all of that traffic. That viaduct was built to relieve the downtown area of the traffic in the first place. Are we to go backwards?

Are you as tired as I am of public officials not listening to us? If you agree with me--please pass this on.

By the way, I am running for the house representative seat for the 36th district--my website is nearly complete blossforthe36th.com I hope to have my campaign blog site ready soon.

The University of Washington is Going to Do a Good (and Right) Thing!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:22:11 -0500

On the front page of The Seattle Times this morning is a very good story entitled UW DEGREES COME AFTER A 66-YEAR WAIT, by Nick Perry. The University of Washington is going to give honorary degrees to all of the Japanese Americans that had been forced out of the university soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor—there were 344 of them. “It’s an unprecedented move for the UW, which has issued just 11 honorary degrees since 1885.”

The story tells of how in 1942, “President Roosevelt issued an executive order giving the military broad powers over anyone considered a security threat. The military banned Japanese Americans from the West Coast.”

Just for a minute think how you would feel if you were told you had to leave your business and your home and could only take with you what you could carry. This was your country—how could they do it to you? One thing I hadn’t realized was that the men were sometimes drafted into the army.

The article interviews Mitsuye Mihara and she tells how she was treated so horribly by other students and even strangers on the street after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Ryo Kumasaka talks about how a government truck arrived at their house to take him, his youngest brother and their parents away. They ended up at the “Tule Lake camp in California—the highest-security internment camp, with barbed wire and armed patrols.”

The Japanese internment is one of those stories that should never be forgotten and one of the biggest shames of United States history along with slavery and how we didn’t help more during the holocaust. I only hope that how we treat Muslims in this country doesn’t become another.

Seattle, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

Write About Your Passion (but keep it clean here)

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:52:25 -0500

I am writing this in response to Jessica Horton’s Posts “Affirmations in the Rain - 04-21-2008 and Affirmations in the Rain - 04-28-2008.” She is saying write about whatever we want and write in localism. Jessica is my broker now and I am going to do as she suggests--I did anyway, she has just not given me permission!! Okay here goes.

This weekend I started my first “door knocking” to let people in my legislative district know that I am running for the State of Washington, House of Representative, 36th District Seat, Position #1. I would mention that my issues are education, traffic, safety and fiscal responsibility. They would then start talking about their concerns (because these are "hot topics" here and I would listen. I must say that I enjoyed it very much. I also told them that I am a real estate agent and hand them my card.

If you have read my posts for any length of time you saw that my writing was getting more and more issue driven. I want to go to Olympia to make a difference and show my district that I for one do listen to what the public wants.

I have been telling people that what ever affiliation they may have--do participate, it is very interesting and you can make a difference.

Edible Plant Sale -- Seattle Tilth, May 3 & 4, 2008

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 09:58:39 -0500

I was at a local nursery two weeks ago and bought some tomato plants and planted them. Well, now I find out I put them in the ground too soon and need to replace them. So what is a person to do? Seattle Tilth to the rescue. They are going to be having their Edible Plant Sale Saturday from 9 AM - 3 PM & Sunday from 11 AM - 3 PM. May 03, 2008 - May 04, 2008 in the Meridian Park in the Wallingford Neighborhood (4649 Sunnyside Ave. N.) This is a very popular event and I would advise you to come early.

The Seattle Tilth Edible Plant Sale offers “the largest selection of organically grown heirloom vegetable starts in Seattle for the discerning vegetable gardener, including over 50 varieties of tomatoes and 20 varieties of peppers. These plants are hand-selected by the Seattle Tilth experts to perform in our Pacific Northwest climate. An extensive selection of culinary herbs, edible flowers, drought tolerant and disease resistant perennials will also be for sale.”

If you have not been to the Meridian Park, it is a great place for kids and picnics. If it is a warm day, the park has a pump turned on that runs water above a large sand box. Little kids love this but dress your children accordingly.

Federal Government Apparently Likes "Katie's Law"

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:24:52 -0500

MSNBC news has an article about how the Federal Government wants "begin collecting DNA samples from all citizens arrested in connection with any federal crime and from many immigrants detained by federal authorities, adding genetic identifiers from more than 1 million individuals a year to the swiftly growing federal law enforcement DNA database."

This is essentially "Katie's Law," that I have been trying to get passed in Washington State except for the part of gathering DNA from immigrants. The article "U.S. seeks to widely expand DNA database" was written by Ellen Nakashima and Spencer Hsu of the Washington Post. The article does go into the fact that if the person has not committed a crime their record can be expunged.

It is very important to remember that the information that is taken via a cheek swab and placed into the CODIS data base is only the same identification that is taken from a fingerprint (only more accurate). A fingerprint is always taken upon arrest. I always maintain, if someone is innocent what do they have to worry about? This is a law to get criminals off of the street and clear the innocent.

I received an email the other day that the Federation of Republican Women want support in getting the law passed in every one of the states. I am glad for support from any one and feel this should not be a political issue.

Sitting at Your Computer All Day is Not a Good Idea--Do You Want to Know What is?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (Brio Realty) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:42:26 -0500

Have you heard of John Medina? He is a Seattle molecular biologist that has written a new book "Brain Rules" which consists of 12 rules he believes "can be applied to our daily lives to help us to better teach, learn, conduct business and parent. Just what we all want!! His rule # 1 is Exercise Boosts Brain Power.

If you go to his website, brainrules.net, you will see him on a video talking about two of his rules—rule #1 “Exercise Boosts Brain Power” and rule #7 “Sleep.” It is a very engaging video and worth your visit. Medina says “What we know is that it (the brain) was designed to solve problems related to surviving in an unstable outdoor setting and do so while we were in near-constant motion.”… If you wanted to design a learning environment that was directly opposed to what the brain is good at doing, you’d settle on a traditional American classroom or one of those cubicles people have to work in.”

It really makes you think doesn’t it!

You can read The Seattle Times article "12 rules to boost your brainpower” by Richard Seven. Another thing is that he will be part of Town Hall’s Seattle Science Lecture Series on April 10th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5, sold at the door only.

Seattle, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont and Redmond, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.