First Hill News: The Stuff Neighbors Want to Know

We live on a street where there is currently lots of action. Folks walking by will volunteer information or ask if we know what is happening to a certain house. Here's what I know via neighbors, etc. 

A family bought the house where Bruce, who worked at the recycling center, lived his entire life. Bruce reminded me of Boo Radley in "To Kill a Mockingbird". He's a gentle guy who kept watch over the neighborhood. His childhood home became overgrown and fell into disrepair for many reasons; life stuff.

Most of the neighborhood appreciated the house and the renters occupying it after the lifelong owner moved to a retirement home. The renters were a bunch of young guys; embraced by the neighborhood, but not the (they had long hair and drove older cars). They had a going away party a few weeks ago and invited the neighbors. There was a live band in the garage, a keg, and lots of artwork spray painted on the inside and outside walls (the house is being torn down so it was OK). It was a great collection of people! Guests were retirees from the neighborhood whose kids grew up with the owner's kids, our street of neighbors, and a huge group of friends of the hosts. Was it loud? Yes. Was it a great party? Absolutely. We'll miss these hackysack playing guys with the cement Buddha in front of the house. A new family will be building a home soon and we're hoping they will have a keg and a live band!

Next door, a person who grew up on Mercer Island is moving back. The home sold quickly and the new owner is planning on making a few changes, but will maintain the integrity of the home and neighborhood. Every owner of that home has become a great neighbor and friend; maybe it is the home or the people who own it. 

On the other side, the official rental for families on First Hill remodeling their home, was sold. We rented it when we remodeled and know it is a great spot to land when you need it. The new owner has been busy making improvements and is a friendly face to have around. 

We all hope that Kevin Durant will take his home off the market and move back during the off-season. He could be semi-anonymous here and we miss his car going by with the base thumping from the car speakers. And yes, I am still upset we don't have the Sonics in Seattle, but Kevin is having a heckuva season.

Keep sending me your tips and questions! Building community, one post at a time.