Jun 08 2009
The Perfect Storm: The Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm embarked on their tenth season on Saturday, June 6th, with a victory over the Monarchs in Sacramento. SWEET! On Sunday, June 7th, I had the opportunity to read a proclamation before the tip-off of their home opener, declaring it Seattle Storm Day. I was joined on the floor by my colleague, Councilmember Jan Drago. The energy in the Key was electric as the Storm went on to win the game 80-70. More than 9,000 people attended the game. They let their voices be heard, as they expressed their adoration for the team. When I watch the Storm, I am always very impressed with their selfless style of play and the crowd’s die-hard enthusiasm.
I cannot say enough about the impact sports has in Seattle. Let’s not underestimate its importance on morale, business generation, mentorship, revenue and our sense of community. It was my pleasure to honor the Storm. I look forward to another exciting, successful season. Go Storm!
View the proclamation (left image) that was read by Councilmember Drago and I before the game.
Photo credit: Aaron Last/Storm Photos
The Huskies are still dancing in the NCAA tournament after defeating Mississippi State this afternoon in Portland. Great defense played by the Huskies! 
I am writing today, not about City Hall or politics of any sort. I am writing today to share my thoughts and excitement of Ken Griffey Jr.’s return to the Seattle Mariners. Lord knows that we were in dire need of a good sports story in our town. Our basketball team has been relocated after being part of our culture for decades, the Seahawks only won four games, the Mariners lost 101 games last year, and Husky football fell off the face of the earth. Baseball fans of Seattle needed this. I remember the Spider Man catches, the sweet swing, and the smile and obvious love of the game he showed. Sure, he is 39 years old and is not the player he once was, but that sweet swing is still there, along with his natural ability to knock it into the seats. The Mariners are a team that is not projected to do well this year, but the return of Jr. gives us a reason to pay attention. We all know what a single swing of his bat can do.
