Magnolia Voice

Local man takes on plumbing fraud

Sara — Thu, 23 May 2013 21:57:35 +0000

By reporter Steven Smalley

Imagine you have a leak under the sink. You search the Internet and find a reputable plumbing company, or so you think. A guy with “Plumbing” on the truck, in the company name, and on his uniform comes to your door – but he’s no plumber. There’s an 80% chance you’ve happened upon a widespread scam perpetrated on homeowners – unlicensed plumbers.

Evan Conklin, for decades a licensed plumber and business owner in Magnolia, is on a lonely mission. Against the overwhelming tide of fraudulent operators and con artists, he is telling a story you probably haven’t heard. Magnolia Voice was listening.

Start with this, of the major trades, only two are required by law for the individual to be licensed: electricians and plumbers, according to Conklin. Why? Because shoddy work by any of these two trades can kill you. Think about an improperly vented hot water tank powered by natural gas. In no time you have a home filled with deadly fumes. This is just one example.

Other than inferior and sometimes dangerous practices, it’s usually the sales pitch by commissioned employees that causes the most damage – to your wallet. Here is an example. “We installed this pump in a basement for a customer for $500,” Conklin begins. “Years later it needed repair, so she called another company because we weren’t immediately available. They wanted to charge her $3500 for an hour’s work. She said, ‘no,’ but ended up paying them $500 as they walked out the door. We returned to change the pump for $500, not $3500. They charged her $492 to give her a sales pitch. Turns out, this guy was not a plumber…obviously working on commission and trying to get $3500 an hour. That’s a real story.”

Oddly enough, this is also a story about advertising. Because search engines such as Google, charge by the “click” for paid advertising, “It takes as many as 19 clicks to get one contact,” according to Conklin.

“At $30 per click, it costs companies at least $300 to gain a customer,” he says. “Legitimate plumbers cannot afford this. Only the fraudsters who charge exorbitant rates can pay these kinds of fees.”

“So when you search for a plumber, chances are the first thing you’ll find is a scam artist who is lining up to rip you off,” says Conklin. Some of the biggest names who purchase the most advertising subscribe to this unscrupulous business model, he says.

When asked about some of the worst cases he’s heard of, Conklin describes an example of what can happen. “If you call for a kitchen sink stoppage, they don’t want a 15-minute unplug-your-kitchen-sink. They want to sell you a $10,000 sewer job. So they’ll come out, poke around in you’re sink for a few minutes, ‘Oh gee, we can’t clear it with this snake, we are going to have to get the camera out here. Sign here.’ You agreed to pay them $300 for them to bring a camera out with another guy, and he pokes a camera in there. He has the opinion that they have to go out in your yard and dig up your sewer. They make this stuff up. It could be $7000 to dig a hole in your yard to fix your sewer. You either have to send them packing, or say ‘yes’ because you can’t flush your toilet.”

“If you say ‘yes,’ you sign a contract right there on the spot. Then within an hour there’s a backhoe in your yard. When they get to the pipe, it breaks. Then they say, ‘Gee, it’s worse than we thought, we have to replace the whole line.’ It will cost you 20 grand,” Conklin says. “These are the guys who can pay Google thousands of dollars in advertising costs.”

There is more bad news. If you ask who enforces the law, that’s the missing part. There isn’t much in the way of enforcement.

“Unless someone gives (Labor & Industries) an address where the guy is with a wrench in his hand, they can’t do much about it,” Conklin explains. “It’s a consumer issue. Where’s the consumer protection? There isn’t any.”

So, what can a homeowner do?

“Don’t let anybody in your house who doesn’t have a license,” Conklin suggests. “Keep wheeling-dealing-hustling guys out of your house. Simply ask to see his plumber’s license that he’s supposed to have in his pocket.”

But don’t be fooled if they present a contractor’s registration. It’s not the same thing. According to Conklin, anyone can get a contractor’s license by applying for it and obtaining some insurance. Actual plumbers’ licenses take 8000 hours of training and certification to legally acquire.

“Watch for the guy who comes into your house and starts talking big bucks without having a license in his pocket,” Conklin warns. “Plumbers are expensive but not as expensive as a scam artist.”

To bring the message home, Conklin has produced an animated video out of his own pocket to tell the story. It can be seen here.

Support Blaine students and your community on Memorial Day

Sara — Thu, 23 May 2013 21:55:10 +0000

The American Legion Post 123, Magnolia is sponsoring two Memorial Day services in Magnolia on Monday. Many Blaine students have volunteered and will participate in the services:

10am in front of the Post Office in the heart of Magnolia
11am at Fort Lawton Cemetery in Discovery Park

Here is a rundown of the morning’s events:

The Blaine Glee Club/Girl Scouts/Campfire will sing the National Anthem at 10am, and the Boy/Cub Scouts will present the Colors at 10am & 11am. Makenna Ertell will sing the National Anthem at 11am, and Schuyler Lubin will play Taps at 11am. Many students will help put flags in the village and make cards for veterans before the services.

Enter Discovery Park through the east entrance off West Government Way. The cemetery is located about 300 yards west of the park entrance. You are welcomed to park at the cemetery, and parking is also available at the Visitors Center (on the left side of the road approximately 150 yards in the park). There is a short walk up the hill to the cemetery for those that park at the Visitors Center.

In the event of adverse weather the 11am service at Fort Lawton will start immediately following the 10am service in the village.

Come dressed in your scout, sports uniform or any patriotic outfit!

They’re ba-aack…the magazine sellers return

Sara — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:30:34 +0000

By reporter Steven Smalley

The magazine crews have landed on the shores of Magnolia once again. It’s 9pm, Monday night and a knock at the door leads this reporter to confront two young men soliciting to help the impoverished. Before they can speak their rehearsed spiel, a blunt question comes from the homeowner, “Are you a magazine crew?” The answer was a proud, “Yes.”

This reminds me of the revealing article from a few years ago in the New York Times about these very same magazine sellers. The article tells the story of bleak travels from state to state, sleeping three to a room in cheap motels, with the lowest seller crashed on the floor. Throw in drug use and abusive management and you get the grim picture.

Read the article here and (in this reporter’s opinion) show the poor unfortunates the door.

Interbay Eagles football and cheerleading registration open now

Sara — Tue, 21 May 2013 00:13:15 +0000

From Laura at our sister site Queen Anne View

Do you have future football players or cheerleaders in your home? Registration is open now for kids that want to play with or root for the Interbay Eagles.

Kids 6-14 can join one of five football teams, and kids 6-11 can join the cheer squad. The recruiting zone for the Interbay Eagles is broad, ranging from the Ship Canal south to Yesler and from Lake Washington to Puget Sound. All Queen Anne kids are welcome to join in!

Football practice begins in August, five days a week through the end of the month, then going to three days a week during the school year, prepping for Saturday game-days. Practices are held at Interbay Field, across from QFC and just off Dravus.

There are six regular season football games on Saturdays, with the first game set for September 7th, followed by the play-offs and ending the season with a championship game.

Program registration fees are $160 for Football and $150 for Cheer. You can register online or call 206.494.0268 for more information.

Weekend crime watch

Sara — Mon, 20 May 2013 19:41:48 +0000

Thanks to the MV tipsters that sent in these emails. Here are a couple of incidents from the weekend:

GARDEN HOSE PRANKS

My husband happened to be home and heard a faucet go on outside our home that day. He went outside to find that someone had climbed up our front stairs to get our hose. They then turned it on and put it in our trash can. They had done this to 2 other neighbors, as well, so my husband turned off their hoses and replaced them. Folks might want to stow away hoses in a non-visible location for a while.

CAR PROWLERS

While out walking the dog at 5AM today (Saturday 5/18/13), I discovered 2 people, a male and a female, going car to car in the 3600 block of 39th Ave W (ie between W Ruffner St and W Emerson St). If they were able to gain access (doors not locked) then they would climb in and rummage around. I observed the male entering 2 vehicles on the block, but did not see if the female was in any vehicles.

When they saw me on my phone (calling 911) they dropped a white Columbia jacket and a red gas can (see photo below) and proceeded north on 39th Ave W to W Emerson St. Later the male was spotted by SPD on Arapahoe Pl W, but he ran and disappeared into a back yard where he was not found. Both were young – teens or 20′s, white, slender build. The male was approx 5’10″ – 6′, and the female was approx 5’4″. It is now 6:20AM and SPD is still trying to locate these two individuals in the neighborhood.

Update 9:00AM - SPD has caught the male suspect but no sign of the female. He ran from the 3600 block of Arapahoe Pl W, through numerous back yards, and was finally “tackled” at 35th Ave W and W Amour. He has a criminal past – no big surprise there.

Numerous neighbors called 911 to report a male running through their back yards and climbing over fences !!! This enabled SPD to “track” him, and finally nab him when he popped out into the open to cross W Amour at 35th. Way to go Magnolia neighbors…

Please check your vehicles for any intrusion that occurred this morning, and call 911 if anything has occurred. An officer will come out at take a report from you.

As the weather heats up, please don’t speed up…

Sara — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:05:22 +0000

We got this email over the weekend. Please be sure to drive safely in our neighborhood!

We live on 36th Ave. West across from Discovery Park and witnessed quite a scary event yesterday afternoon as a car came careening through the shacane in front of our house at speeds far exceeding the posted limit. The driver of the Volvo XC90 lost control of the vehicle and flew through our fence, our neighbors fence and finally came to a stop after smashing into a parked van in the neighbor’s parking pad. The driver then tried to back out, not realizing that there is a four foot drop into our yard from the neighbor’s where she had come to rest. The SUV ended up hanging precariously over the retaining wall, as can be seen in the picture. This driver was incredibly lucky that nobody was injured. She missed someone pruning our rosebushes by a mere 10 feet, there was a pedestrian walking his dog not 15 feet in the other direction, and the corner right under where the wheel came to rest is my daughter’s favorite digging spot in the yard where she had been playing with a friend not two hours before the incident.

I’m hoping this email and photo will help people remember that this is a residential neighborhood and we must always make safe choices when behind the wheel. As summer approaches and more people are out and about, please slow down and follow the rules of the road. And please, under no circumstances, drive while impaired in any way. Be safe!

Time to take a dip- Mounger is open for business

Sara — Fri, 17 May 2013 03:17:30 +0000

Mounger pool opened on Saturday and will be open through Sept 8!

Click here for the schedule.

Thanks to Kym for the photo

Schubert concert postponed

Sara — Fri, 17 May 2013 03:10:54 +0000

The free concert of Schubert Songs scheduled for Friday, May 17^th at the Magnolia Presbyterian Church is been postponed due to the illness of soloist John Obourn. The event will be rescheduled later. We wish you a quick recovery, John!

Incident at (or near) US Bank in the Village

Sara — Fri, 17 May 2013 01:53:49 +0000

There is something going down at (or near) US bank.

This email (which may or may not be related to the incident) was sent to MV at 6:03pm:

There are currently six cop cars on 31st Ave W, just south of Dravus. Only two officers are in a car and they said they are checking the premises (or perimeter ?) for the block, but wouldn’t comment further.

More info to come. This photo was taken at 6:30pm.

Stellar help at ACE

Sara — Thu, 16 May 2013 22:12:33 +0000

We got this email earlier this week. Nice to know there is still great customer service in our neighborhood!

It’s not often that cashiers are able to take the time to really help a customer, though the folks at ACE Hardware have never failed to help me when I needed it.

Today a young lady (whose name I didn’t catch) helped me get a small flashlight back in action. She was willing to spend the time to clean all contact points, test and retest the light bulb, and bring my flashlight back to life!

Yes, I could have bought a new one, but I’m old enough to remember that we actually fixed things when they stopped working.

It gives me hope that our next generation will be more careful and not only recycle and reuse but also REPAIR!

Many many thanks for all the help! And thanks for being a great example for your generation – from someone nearly old enough to be your grandmother!

Queen Anne and Magnolia housing market remains as hot as the recent weather

Sara — Tue, 14 May 2013 22:01:14 +0000

(A sponsored post by John Madrid with John L. Scott Real Estate)

There are no signs that the current trends of low inventory, rising prices, short sales times and multiple offers will be abating anytime soon.

For Queen Anne and Magnolia there continues to be only about a 1 to 2 month supply of single-family home inventory. This tight inventory can be attributed to continued low interest rates, robust Puget Sound area hiring and a generally improved economy including significant gains in the stock market. Whether the market will become more “balanced” (defined as a 3-6 month supply of homes) will hinge on many more listings hitting the market over the coming months.

Of Queen Anne and Magnolia homes closed in April the average sale price was a little over 102% of the most recent list price. This indicates continued multiple offer situations.

Prospective buyers also should think in terms of at least a minimum of 3-5+ year home ownership horizon and preferably maintain the option to hold onto their home through future downturns in the market. Home seller costs (excise tax, title/escrow fees, sale commissions) of approximately 9% of the sales price should also be factored into any decision to purchase.

Click here for more stats on other Seattle neighborhoods. John Madrid is a Managing Broker with John L. Scott Real Estate – University Village and is a 2005-2012 Seattle Magazine “Five Star” Agent. His clients include both home buyers and sellers. He can be reached at 206-498-1880, john@live206.com or www.live206.com.

Statistics are deemed reliable but are not guaranteed. All information should be verified to the users own satisfaction.

The Path of an Eagle

Sara — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:41:56 +0000

By reporter Steven Smalley

It’s been called the PhD of youth. The highest achievement in Boy Scouts is the rank of Eagle, an honor attained by only 4% of scouts nation-wide. The latest Eagle recipient in Magnolia, Ballard High School junior Jackson Smalley, has a familial connection to this reporter. The oldest child of yours truly was awarded the rank of Eagle at a Court of Honor ceremony April 28 with family, friends, scouts, and leaders of Troop 80 all gathered to celebrate. The formal occasion, at the United Church of Christ, a long-time sponsor of Scouting, included traditional formalities, speeches, songs, and a handsome banquet.

The 124^th Eagle from Troop 80 since the first one was awarded in 1932, Jack was accompanied by his proud parents including his mother, Michiko Smalley, and Scoutmaster Brian Keaton. Also in attendance was special speaker and family friend, The Honorable Mark Chow, King County District Court judge, Magnolia resident, and youngest son of the late Ruby Chow, a Seattle political icon.

As required of all Eagle candidates, a community project was organized and completed. Smalley’s initiative helped restore the Wolf Tree Nature Trail in Discovery Park while simultaneously installing 15 wooden signposts to indicate points of interest along the way – all of which were produced at Ballard High School with permission of faculty. More than 20 scouts and adults helped with the undertaking in Seattle’s largest park last January.

Additionally, a video presentation of the project was shown at the Court of Honor which recently won the first-ever Golden Eagle Award for Best Eagle Project video by Scouting magazine, a national publication. Click here to watch the 3-minute story.

The parents of Jackson Smalley extend their deepest appreciation to the many wonderful people who helped him achieve the rank of Eagle.

EDITOR’S NOTE: We had to twist Reporter Smalley’s arm to get him to do this story, and are very proud of the newest Eagle Scout in Magnolia. Congrats, Jackson!

Smash and grab at apartments on 27th Pl W

Sara — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:16:09 +0000

Gym rats beware… take your bag with you. We got this email over the weekend.

My wife’s Saturn was (a) smash and grab victim last night. It appears they were after her gym bag which was on her front seat. She has always kept it in her car but I guess we will have to think twice about doing this now. Car was parked in our parking spot under Casa Ladaro Apts. on 27th Pl W.

Have you seen this stolen bike?

Sara — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:04:59 +0000

One of our readers is asking for help in recovering her stolen bike. She writes:

My black and yellow Honda motorcycle, a 2003 CBR600RR, was stolen from my Magnolia carport … I called the police as soon as I found out it was missing but I am trying to get word out particularly as it was probably a local…it is my only mode of transportation (and) could use all the help I can get.

-License plate # 981185, tabs exp 5/13

-It has a white dragon decal on the windscreen

-White “CrossFit Interbay” stickers on each of the silver lower side plastics

- The yellow fairings (plastic side pieces) are held together w/ black zip ties

- It’s been lowered about 1 1/4 so the bottom middle of the license plate is bent back a bit.

- Note: this picture is pre-zip ties.

I’m advertising a $100 reward for any tips that lead to it’s recovery.

Thanks again for your

She adds that the thieves may have painted the bike primer black:

I wouldn’t be surprised if they painted it since yellow is a unique color and is easy to spot. The police also told me to let people know if they have a tip to call the non emergency police line which is 206.625.5011 opt 2,8.

Thanks, readers!

Have your say on Interbay

Sara — Thu, 09 May 2013 06:05:51 +0000

By reporter Steven Smalley

What is happening to 15^th Avenue? Lots of changes are under discussion. Now have your say. Here is an invitation to attend the meeting of the Magnolia Community Club at 7PM Thursday, May 9 in the Catharine Blaine lunchroom to give your input on planning.

Should there be more industry or multi-family housing?
How about commercial and retail?
Can existing businesses survive as this corridor grows?
Is it shortsighted to shrink existing industrial zones?
Can traffic congestion on Dravus be alleviated?

A representative from the City of Seattle Department of Planning and Development will be on hand to to present their recommendations and take your questions.

More information can be found on the web: Seattle.gov/dpd/planning/envisioninginterbay

A drawing for door prizes donated by local merchants will be held at the end of the meeting.

Magnolia man wins Tacoma Marathon

Sara — Thu, 09 May 2013 05:45:26 +0000

Photo from Tacoma News Tribune

We were thrilled to learn that Magnolia’s own Bill Condon won the Tacoma Marathon last weekend. He was kind enough to do an interview over email with Magnolia Voice. Here’s what we talked about:

MV: Congrats on your amazing finish in the Tacoma Marathon! What can you tell us about the race?

BC: The race was on Sunday and had about 2,000 runners. It was a great course with lots of supporters. I was running in 3^rd the majority of the race and passed the guy in 2^nd at mile 18 and was able to catch the guy that was running in first at mile 24. That guy had won the past 6 Tacoma marathons. He finished about 2 minutes and 30 seconds behind me. I finished in 2 hours and 43 minutes which is my 2^nd best time. My PR is 2:39.

MV: Where do you train?

BC: I mainly train in Magnolia. Magnolia is a great place to run because of all the hills. I run pretty much all over Magnolia (Blvd, Discovery Park, Viewmont, 28^th, Government Way, Thorndyke, and the Interbay area as well). I have a routine depending on how far I am going that day. I usually run about 70 miles a week.

MV: How many marathons have you run?

BC: 11 ( I started running marathons in late 2010).

MV: How many have you won?

BC: I have won some half marathons but this is my first win for the full marathon. I finished 3^rd in the Coeur d’alene marathon, 4^th in the Seattle marathon, 5^th in the Denver marathon.

Condon was at the Boston Marathon earlier this Spring:

BC: I was in Boston with my dad and 5 year old son. We were having lunch when the explosions happened. We were staying at the Fairmont hotel which was about 2 blocks from the explosions. When we walked back from lunch to the hotel, it was a very sad and chaotic environment. We will definitely be back next year and I will run in the marathon again and we will be there to support that great city. Boston is a resilient city and I know that next year will most likely be the biggest year ever for Boston marathon supporters. I ran the Boston marathon in 2011 and had a great experience. This year I was injured going into the race and ended up having to pull out of the race at mile 12 due to my calf. I was worried about running Tacoma so soon after being hurt in Boston but I started slower than normal for Tacoma and was able to close strong. I was thinking about all of those people affected by the horrific attack in Boston and that was great motivation for me in Tacoma. Boston did not deserve that nor did those innocent people that were caught up in that terrible tragedy.

MV: Any other thoughts you want to add would be great…

BC: Playing football, basketball, and baseball growing up I used to think people that ran long distances were a little crazy but then I started running and became a huge fan. I think that people can get caught up in how fast they are running and they shouldn’t pay attention to that, the key is to get out and challenge yourself and just do the best job that you can do. There is always someone that will be faster than you. There is a great feeling when you train for a race and cross the finish line.

MV: Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions, and congrats again on your huge accomplishment!

Ballard H.S. dance team to host dance clinic

Sara — Wed, 08 May 2013 07:09:02 +0000

Ballard’s dance team is hosting a dance clinic on Saturday, May 11 at the Ballard High School gym from 2-4. Kids aged 5-14 are invited to learn dance and conditioning techniques, leaps, turns, and a combo that will be performed at the end of the clinic (3:45). The team is ranked 12th in Washington State, performs at school and community events, and participates in regional and state competitions. Coach Emily Lubinski is a certified teaching artist who is also a professional dancer in Seattle. Come and see what it’s like to dance at Ballard High School. The cost is $15.

To register, follow this link and click on the registration form at the bottom left corner of the page. The registration form/waiver is required in order for your student to participate.

If you have any questions or would like assistance with registration, contact Laura at quandt4@comcast.net.

Seattle Parks, Citizens for Off-Leash Areas to meet May 8

Sara — Wed, 08 May 2013 06:46:48 +0000

Seattle Parks and Recreation will join Citizens for Off-Leash Areas (COLA) for a general membership meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8 in the Park Board Room, 100 Dexter Ave. N.

Parks and the COLA Board of Directors will celebrate the openings of two new off-leash areas at Magnolia Manor Park in Magnolia and at Lower Kinnear Park in Queen Anne. They will also share important updates and upcoming events and hold a round table discussion.

Topics will include events, fundraisers, marketing, education, volunteers, partnerships, newsletters, and more.

The public is invited to come and learn about the benefits of COLA membership and to join. Member dues help improve existing off-leash areas and communicate with supporters. Donations support the newsletter, postage, printing, phone line and educational brochures and materials.

Citizens for Off-Leash Areas (COLA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that was formed to obtain and maintain off-leash dog exercise areas in Seattle. For more information on COLA, please go to www.coladog.org.

Note: Please leave doggies at home!

Still time to see Magnolia kids in St. Alphonsus’ The Music Man

Sara — Wed, 08 May 2013 06:41:13 +0000

Daniel Wilson and Serafima Healy play Mayor and Mrs. Shinn

With a cast and crew of more than 50 talented middle school students (many from Magnolia), the St. Alphonsus Drama Department presents The Music Man.

Students and parent volunteers have worked tirelessly to put together another amazing show. If you haven’t yet been to a St. Al’s Spring Musical, you will be blown away by the caliber of talent and the dedication of everyone involved to bring such a professional-grade performance to the community, especially one funded primarily by donations.

Remaining shows:

Friday, May 10 – 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 11 – 7 p.m.

Ticket prices:

$13 Adult and $8 Children (14 & under)

Magnolia resident Victoria Lanser has the lead female roll of Marian in “The Music Man”

For tickets or more information, click here. Photos and quote from St. Al’s press.

Heads up! W Galer construction… bus reroutes

Sara — Sun, 05 May 2013 01:15:43 +0000

There is construction on W Galer street this weekend, causing a detour (just before you enter the Magnolia bridge from Magnolia). Please drive carefully. It should be done before Monday’s commute!

Per Metro

On Saturday and Sunday, May 4 and 5, 7:00 AM through 6:00 PM each day, Routes 24 and 33 will be rerouted off of 28th Av W between W Hayes St & W Galer St, due to construction. During this time, bus routes 24 and 33 heading toward downtown Seattle, will travel instead via W Hayes St, Thorndyke Av W and W Galer St to their regular routes, using all posted bus stops along the revised routing. Bus routes heading toward Magnolia will not be affected.

Don’t miss Magnolia Chorale performances this weekend!

Sara — Sun, 05 May 2013 01:07:04 +0000

Village businesses opening

Sara — Fri, 03 May 2013 22:38:38 +0000

By reporter Steven Smalley

Current and Furbish, the latest retail establishment in the space formerly occupied by Cocoa (Correction) and Cream at 3208 West McGraw Street, is about to open its doors for business Saturday. Calling it a soft opening, owners say they plan a Grand Opening later in May. Timing may be right for those who plan to give something nice for Mother’s Day, graduation, or Father’s Day – this new store will feature home accessories, toys, and gifts.

As previously reported in Magnolia Voice, it will offer gently used and new merchandise along with colorful art created by owner, Scott Ward.

Coincidentally, another storefront in the village offering similar items is about to open in May as well. In the space previously housing a fitness establishment just north of Albertsons’ parking lot at 2560 32^nd Avenue West, there is a business not yet open called, Nifty Toy & Gift. At press time there was no further information available.

Plus, add one more to the mix – Realtors confirm a lease is about to receive signatures for the retail enterprise just south of Mondello’s restaurant in the Bellagio complex. Mum’s the word on what it will be.

Best of luck to all.

Mayhem downtown, break-in on Magnolia

Sara — Thu, 02 May 2013 22:23:37 +0000

It seems last night was busy for law breakers all over the city. We received this email from an anonymous tipster on Magnolia Way West:

We have had two break ins over the last couple of weeks. Two weeks or so back one house had been ransacked while the owner was at work.

Last night a blonde girl in her late twenties early thirties knocked on our door asking for someone we had never heard of, then went next door and asked to use the phone the next house was nobody home and was broken into.

The perfect night to break in to home the police are busy downtown with protesters and unable to respond to a home robbery.

Walking School Bus is coming your way in May

Sara — Thu, 02 May 2013 21:43:27 +0000

Lawton Elementary is sponsoring two “Walk to School Days” this month. The aim of this endeavor is to reduce the amount of carbon emissions in our neighborhood, reduce the amount of traffic, build community with neighbors, and to make our community more lively.

Lawton Elementary Teacher Lyon Terry writes

Although our walking school busses run throughout the year, for the month of May we always try and put a big push out to get people on the routes! Staff and teachers will join kids on these days.

Frank discussion about teen drug and alcohol use and prevention at Ballard. H.S. next week

Sara — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:26:52 +0000

Next Tuesday evening, Northwest Seattle Coalition for a Drug-Free Community presents “It’s not MY kid!”, a public release and discussion of the latest data from the Ballard High School and surrounding Middle School Student Health Survey. The forum will also include tips on guiding your teen around drug and alcohol influences:

Every two years, the state conducts a survey among 8^th, 10^th and 12^th grade students that assesses health and risk behaviors. Lisa Sharp from the Seattle School district will present an analysis of the Seattle School’s newest data, including interesting information on kids’ attitudes towards marijuana and alcohol use. Afterwards, Frank Couch from SAMA (Science And Management of Addiction http://samafoundation.org/) will speak to us about how to coach your kids through this landscape, and how to clarify family rules and expectations. Questions and open discussion afterwards. Join us…and pass the word along!

Tuesday May 7^th

Ballard High School Library 1418 NW 65th St

7:00 – 8:30pm

For more information, contact NW Seattle Drug-Free Communities Coalition.

Seattle Animal Shelter hosts “Cool City Pets” event

Sara — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:03:19 +0000

By Ruth Whyman

UW News Lab

The Seattle Animal Shelter welcomed members of the public to its monthly “Cool City Pets” events Saturday, April 20, where visitors could get acquainted with many of the small animals available for adoption.

“Cool City Pets” or “critters” included hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, mice, snakes and even a turtle named Amanda; all animals perfect for apartments and inner-city homes where dogs and cats might not be a viable option. Visitors were able to view and handle animals in a safe, enclosed environment.

The shelter also offers a pet loss support group. It has met every Thursday since one volunteer lost her pet in 2007 and realized that an outlet for people to openly express their grief could be beneficial.

The organization boasts around 400 volunteers and 32 full-time staff.

Sis Odland, a Seattle local, had heard about “Cool City Pets” and went to check out the event. She acknowledges the all-round great work the shelter and its staff does.

“Without [the volunteers] these animals wouldn’t have a home. … They’re all really amazing people.”

Critter Team Lead Killy Keefe has volunteered at the shelter for five years and considers herself a full-time adoptive parent outside the shelter also.

“My life revolves around this place,” she said. “I’m here every day. It’s an addiction.”

The staff’s hard work does not go unrewarded. For every animal they find adoptive parents for, the return rate is a mere 4 to 5 percent, arguably a result of the lengthy adoption process (which includes two interviews) to make sure prospective parents are a proper match for a given animal.

Mavis is a 7-month-old pit bull who came in terribly malnourished after receiving insufficient care as a puppy. She is now “super snuggly and cute,” according to Kara Main-Hester, who has been the volunteer and fundraising manager at the shelter for four and a half years. Even so, she remained in a small percentage that didn’t find the perfect match for adoptive parents.

This is one of the many unfortunate situations the staff has to deal with.

While standing in the doorway of the “critters room,” a dog was led by whose food allergies had gone untreated before being admitted to the shelter. He had been shaved of most of his fur, revealing a red, inflamed rash.

When it comes to animal abuse and seeing distressing cases, “It’s always hard to get your head around,” Main-Hester said. But she insists that “It’s a great place to work. … If I ever have a stressful day and need a break, I come and have a cuddle with a dog.”

As sad as a story might begin, ultimately the animals end up happy, healthy and waiting for love.

Main-Hester weighs in on making the decision to adopt a pet. “Think carefully about your current lifestyle. … Ask yourself what you are willing to do. … Be horribly honest with yourself.”

If you decide to adopt an animal, you’re not just making their day but that of the shelter staff, too.

“Any time you have an animal that finds a home it’s a good deal,” Hester said. “It’s just the right thing to do.”

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(RUTH WHYMAN is a student in the University of Washington Department of Communication News Laboratory.)

Man tries to open front door…but the door doesn’t belong to him

Sara — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:16 +0000

And in the completely bizarre and unnerving category-this was emailed to us over the weekend:

A strange guy came to our front door tonight just before 10 PM and tried to open the door. We live on Magnolia Way West, near Magnolia Bridge. He didn’t knock or ring the door bell. We talked to him on our intercom and he sounded intoxicated. He asked where Magnolia was and I said, “You are in Magnolia.” I asked what he wanted and he just mumbled unintelligibly. He wasn’t claiming to be selling magazines or anything like that, as reported in other parts of Magnolia.

He asked where downtown Magnolia was, and I encouraged him to walk towards W. Galer, hoping he would leave. He was at our door for 10-15 minutes. We called 911 and reported him to the police. While we were on the phone, he finally began walked to W. Galer. He then turned west and continued walking towards the Village. Moments later we saw a police car go in his direction.

My wife thought he was a black guy, but he looked light-skinned to me. It was difficult to see him through our door glass. He was probably 5’10″, slender, and was wearing a black shirt. He may have had a long grey goatee. Again, it was difficult to get a good look at him.

I think he was drunk or on something and I doubt he could remember how to get back to our house even if he wanted to. Very bazaar.

Once again, lock your doors… even when you are home! Please email us at tips@magnoliavoice.com with your experiences and sightings, no matter how large or small.

Lawton students art up at Magnolia Manor Park

Sara — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:28:41 +0000

By Monica Wooton

Over 60 pieces of art done by last year’s fifth grade classes of Ms.Ulmer and Mr. Hubbard, under the direction of Don Rockwell, Seattle Mural Artist and classroom volunteers LuAnn Mitchell and Monica Wooton were hung on a the north fence along a walking path at Magnolia Manor Park this past week. Bees, birds and butterflies and other park themed work adds an artistic touch and a fun aspect to the Park. The fifth graders raised money to get the artwork hung as well as did there own pieces. Plan a visit to the park, let your dog play in the new off leash area or walk around to the brand new P-Patch and for sure, take the art walk!

Are you heading to Springfest this Friday night?

Sara — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:20:50 +0000

Rain or shine, it’s time again for Springfest in the Village. This annual event means the shops stay open a little bit later, and we get to enjoy art, live music, sips and snacks in the heart of Magnolia! Here’s a preview of tomorrow night’s festivities:

See you there!

Nikos Gyros gives to senior center

Sara — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 21:03:31 +0000

By Steven Smalley

Photo by K. Kennell

The final Sunday of the month is upon us this weekend, which means Nikos Gyros, the Greek restaurant in The Village, serves Magnolia in a different way. In addition to their usual menu, Alexandra “Alex” Serpanos, the restaurant’s generous owner, dishes up brunch and gives 100% of receipts, including tips, to a community organization. The recipient for April is the Ballard Senior Center, which serves Magnolia, Queen Anne, and Ballard.

“I knew she was interested in older people, so I went and asked if she would do one for the Senior Center and she said, ‘Yes,’” reveals Kay Kennell, a volunteer for the center. “It’s really quite a remarkable place.”

Open Sunday 11a.m. to 4p.m., Nikos Gyros employees volunteer their time and take no pay for the day, instead donating it to the cause.

Run by King County, the Ballard Senior Center serves 2500 different people every month. With only 30% of their budget covered by the county, 70% must be raised to support programs as diverse as sewing classes and language education. Anyone over 50 can visit and enjoy services. Membership is not required. Lunch, made from scratch, is served daily.

Serpanos says she is surprised by how many people stop by and not only have a nice meal, but also give checks too.

“We encourage everyone from Magnolia to go to Nikos and patronize the event,” says Kennell.

Students who need community service hours are invited to call, as well as others who want to volunteer. Their telephone number at Niko’s Gyros is 206-285-4778.

The Ballard senior center is located two blocks north of the Hiram Chittenden Locks.