February 2006

Homeless population grows

A new survey of homelessness found that Ballard had a 26 percent increase in the number of people living on the streets, compared to the last such street count, in 2004.

The survey, done in the early morning hours of January 27, found 364 people homeless in Ballard compared with 289 in 2004 and 253 in 2003.

The total survey area covered six regions of King County.

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Where skate Woodland?

The Seattle Parks Commission board listened to testimony about a proposed skate area in Lower Woodland Park last Thursday night. Most of that testimony contained two themes; that neighbors were unaware of the proposal, and that the proposal was flawed.

An audience of more than 70 people crowded into a small meeting room at the Parks Department office on Dexter Avenue on Thursday, January 26.

Neighborhood
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Flame on - Golden Gardens likely to continue beach fires

A Seattle Parks Department study of beach fires at Golden Gardens and Alki Beach recommends continuing to allow such fires, at least through 2006.

Just two years ago, parks department staff had recommended closing both locations to recreational fires because of safety and air quality issues.

According to Adam Cole, an environmental stewardship coordinator for the Seattle Parks Department, the recommendation was made because of a significant drop in illegal burning in both parks.

Neighborhood
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Final fight for playoffs

With the regular season winding down and a playoff spot on the line, the Ballard Beaver girl's basketball team faces a mighty challenge in their five remaining opponents.

Early last week, Ballard (10-6, 5-5) was in fifth place in the KingCo Conference. If they can finish the year among the top eight teams, they'll be in the playoffs.

Last week they lost the first of those five games, 63-45 to a dominating Inglemoor (14-2, 8-2) team, led by the Vikings Ashley Brown and her game high 30 points.

They have games left on Feb.

Neighborhood
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