One of Washington's most powerful politicians has been returning campaign contributions. That might not mean much at this early stage, but the Seattle Democrat, who chairs the powerful House budget committee, won't say she's definitely running again, either.
Politicians are poking their heads up from the foxholes a little bit, when it comes to keeping the Sonics in the region. King County Councilman Pete Von Reichbauer, who often plays honest broker in these sports deals, is slightly encouraged. "Nothing indicates any change," he says of recent (non)developments, "but change could happen." Rather zen comment, but also true.
All the factors that made such a strong case for rail in 1968 are much weaker now. Jim Ellis, the architect of the dream, recalls how the crusade began and why Seattle seemed the perfect city for an extensive rail system.
A wide range of companies is taking chances in repertoire and bold approaches. It's paying off in some indelible performances and young audiences. Here's a survey of the past year's highlights.