Thirteen people applied for the vacant Position 6 left by the untimely death of Councilman Joe Brennan. Thirteen people interviewed for Position 6. Twelve didn't even have a chance.

Not being an applicant, I still took the time, on

Tuesday the 2nd, from my day (6 hours worth) to cheer on my favorite city volunteer Pam Fenald and conscientious planning commissioner Rick Forschler.

With long resumes of city committee participation and volunteerism, I thought either would be a shoe in for this position.

As the interviews went on and others stepped forward, I thought maybe this was not as easy as I previously surmised.

Former councilman and planning commissioner Mike Seifkes also applied and interviewed quite well, also.

The night went on and the audience waited with baited breath while the council deliberated till after 10 p.m. They had completed the interviews at around 9 p.m.

We have a winner. Rick Forschler with one vote and four for Barry Ladenburg (president of the Angle Lake Shore Club and fireworks organizer.) Huh?!

Me being me, I thought I would look this gentleman up. Come to find out he is former Pierce County Executive, John Ladenburg's brother (who just lost to Rob

McKenna for attorney general.) Further research found that now 5 out 7 of SeaTac's council members live within 1,000 feet of each other in SeaTac's upscale neighborhood of Angle Lake with King County Council member Julia Patterson in the middle.

Why do we need a council chamber at City Hall? The overwhelming majority of our Council members can just take a brisk walk to each other's house and decide the fate of 26, 000 SeaTac residents over tea and crumpets.

Thanks to all the residents who applied for this position and it is unfortunate Santa did not have a political favor in his bag for you this year.

Earl Gipson

SeaTac