Demolition of classic Island homes a tragedy

Thank you for the article about the “Ballard House” house on First Hill. As neighbors we have always appreciated Ralph Anderson’s understated but classic design, but were unaware of the impressive history of the house. It’s ironic that it is just two doors away is another architecturally classic home designed by Gene Zema, one of his first as well.

It was sad to learn from your article that the house will be demolished. Anderson’s appreciation of the land is evident in the design of this house. From inside it feels as if you are in a tree house. The park like landscaping with its carefully chosen native plants was a source of great pride for previous owners.

In addition, the removal of the firs on the northeast corner of the property will mean the end of the eagles we have delighted in watching and hearing each year as eaglets hatch and grow in the nests in those trees. The eagles, like the house, are part of the character of our neighborhood.

Myra Lupton

Terry Moreman

Norm & Elisabeth Sandler

Janis Niwa

Seong & Susan Kim

Frank Phillips

Matt & Amy Shobe

Chris Condrin

Deb Katz

Jeremy Moreman

First Hill neighbors

Find out how to join in relief efforts for Nepal

After reading Taylor Caldwell’s letter to the editor requesting support for the Pitzer College Nepal Relief Fund, I was inspired to act quickly and join the effort. As owner of our local yoga studio, Yogabliss, I am rallying our members and friends to offer financial support to the victims of the recent earthquake. As Taylor pointed out last week, The Pitzer Fund sends all contributions directly to the Nepalese of the mountain villages that were devastated on April 24. We researched the options and chose this as a safe, effective method to send our donations.

We spoke to Taylor about the process and will happily answer any of your questions. Please call us at Yogabliss 206-275-2300. We are collecting checks at Yogabliss to “Pitzer College Nepal Relief Fund” or you can donate directly online at http://bit.ly/1I53lUW. We are keeping a running total of MI’s support, so please let us know the amount of your contribution by emailing info@yogabliss.org.

We want to help and invite ​each​ of you to join our effort​​.​ ​

Maria Bliss

Yogabliss