Last evening, you showed what a committed and caring community can do. Between 400 and 500 of you took the time to express your frustration at the lack of neighborhood engagement and outreach by the city on the Mayor’s plan. Thank you!!!!! If you watched the evening news, you know that our community meeting was the top story across the Pacific Northwest. It surely got the attention of city hall. You made Ballard proud. You blew away all expectations. You were passionate, thoughtful and engaged in demanding the open public process we deserve. We have set up a Facebook Page for Speak Up Ballard. To stay informed and continue the conversation, take a moment to “Like” the page at facebook.com/speakupballard. We heard a promise from Councilmember Mike O’Brien that this isn’t a done deal and that he is willing to consider a better alternative site if it can be found. That’s a start. Unfortunately, the work isn’t finished yet. There was an empty seat on stage last night. We held it open just in case Mayor Ed Murray changed his mind. He didn’t. Mayor Murray’s office has scheduled a meeting next Wednesday, Aug. 12 at Leif Erickson Hall. Will the mayor show up, or will we again be left asking,“Where’s Ed?” This is our next big chance to make our voices heard. If everyone who turned out last night can spare one more evening for a community meeting, it will strengthen our demand that Ballard has a say in this important decision impacting our community. Mark your calendars. Speak Up Ballard!