CONFIRMED RALLY
Posted on Friday, March 7th, 2008 at 11:16 pm by Brian Robinson
UPDATE: We really need commitments to this one! This isn’t as much a rally as simply a show of support. Unions do it all the time taking 15-20 members in their T-Shirts and holding signs down. We won’t be doing much other than demonstrating our presence. Still it is important to get a crowd. If you know anybody who lives down south ask them to come by.
URGENT RALLY: Sonics fans gather in Support of Current Legislation at Washington State Legislative Building
Where: Legislative Building, Olympia, WA
When: Saturday, March 8, 10-11am
What: Supporters of the legislation to fund a Key Arena Renovation package proposed by Seattle Mayor Greg Nichols and supported by new potential tean ownership will gather at the steps of the legislative building encouraging members of legislature to pass the proposal during the current legislative session.
Participants are encouraged to wear Sonics logo clothing and all participants will receive a complimentary Save Our Sonics T-Shirt.
Contact: Questions regarding this event or RSVP’s to attend should be forwarded via e-mail to brian@saveoursonics.org
Directions to the Legislative Building
1143 CAPITOL WAY S, OLYMPIA
Take exit I-5 #105/STATE CAPITOL/CITY CENTER/PORT OF OLYMPIA
onto 14TH AVE SE toward #105A/STATE CAPITOL/CITY CENTER -
go 1.2 mi
Turn Right on CAPITOL WAY S - go 0.1 mi
Arrive at 1143 CAPITOL WAY S, OLYMPIA, on the Left
Please RSVP in this thread and SPREAD THE WORD!
March 7th, 2008 at 11:22 am
James Donaldson Committed to coming
March 7th, 2008 at 11:22 am
WTB Fatty sized SoS tshirts!
March 7th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Dammit! I’m going to be in New York!
I’m there in spirit, whatever that’s worth.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:29 am
You know what… I live in Lynnwood…
BUT DAMN IT DUDE.. I AM DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
COUNT ME IN!
March 7th, 2008 at 11:30 am
I can’t make it as I am working. But I will do my part in posted this on all the message boards I can.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I’m there.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:33 am
DANG!! Can’t make it, working then birthday party. I’ll be sending you guys good vibes. I’ll spread the word to my people.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:34 am
I will be out of town but wish you all good luck and safe driving.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:38 am
Count me in, plus my daughter.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:46 am
I will be out of town as well dealing with family matters. But will be back in the thick of things on Monday morning bright and early.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Parking link is not working for me.
I’ll try to get the wife and kids to come with me tomorrow. We can tag team.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:48 am
ANybody know a bus route from Lynnwood to Olympia? I’m having trouble finding a way to get there
March 7th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Please send announcement email to SOS members about the rally.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Softy just announced live on the radio the details of the rally! Way to go Softy, get the word out!
March 7th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Do 30-40 people want to go in on a bus for the day?
At least that way we can have a beer infested road trip on the way home!
March 7th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Softy is going to air David Locke’s radio interview in Utah with Jazz owner Larry Miller. Apparently it’s a good listen as in the beginning Miller isn’t too keen on the idea, but once Locke gives him all the new info, he sorta changes his tune.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
GP, send me a PM, I live in the U District and am trying to go. I may have family things to deal with instead. I’ll keep ya updated.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Nice, KJR is announcing the rally during their updates.
Ian Furness who was on with Softy talking about the Locke interview said that this Miller thing is a big issue. That most of the owners only know the story that they’ve been told by Bennett and Stern. And that if we can properly inform them of what is going on here, they might change their opinion of the situation.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
I’m two time zones away so you guys will have to stand in for me… but I did just make a donation in honor of the event. Now go freak out the squares!
March 7th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
KJR is really stepping up..
Where is KHHO? heh.. The worst decision ever.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
No.. worst decision ever is selling to Bennet - but I agree KHHO is pretty bad
March 7th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Funny how Miller kept saying “Kingdome” as to where the Sonics play. Uh, Larry, they haven’t played in the Kingdome for, oh, quite a while. Or don’t you remember losing the 1996 Western Conference Finals in Key Arena??
March 7th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
That was a very encouraging interview. Man, I miss David Locke!
March 7th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
While I like the end result of the interview (with the facts, owners can change minds)
I am disturbed at all the missinformation that the owners have. I am sure Griffin’s group is sending all of these numbers to the owners.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Just listened to the Larry Miller interview. Wow.
He had no clue what is going on besides what Bennett has been saying. He basically thought that “Seattle gave the baseball and football team stadiums and said heck no to the NBA”. But once Locke set him straight and told him that this current group is the first to have put forth a $ number from their end and when he told him the overall # of the plan, Miller said, “boy, that changes things.” He then went on to say that teams shouldn’t move just because they want to, and that they should value the loyalty that the cities give them.
I don’t know how it gets done. But I wouldn’t be surprised if most owners are in the exact same spot. They only know Bennett’s spin job. And while we’ve always said that the owners don’t want to block a move, so they can move in the future. I do think that a good deal of them aren’t too keen on the idea of teams moving, as Miller put it, “willy nilly” just because the owner wants to.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Does Locke still have a blog? Does he still talk about seattle issues?
March 7th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
“Do 30-40 people want to go in on a bus for the day?
At least that way we can have a beer infested road trip on the way home”
sure thing if we can organize that.
I have to drive back up to smoky point to work at 5.. that will be 200+ miles of driving for me tomorrow
March 7th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Is this Rally in replace of next week’s rally? Or is that still on?
March 7th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
I just called the governor and there was no wait. Flood the damn lines!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Lets go
March 7th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Directions to the Legislative Building
1143 CAPITOL WAY S, OLYMPIA
Take exit I-5 #105/STATE CAPITOL/CITY CENTER/PORT OF OLYMPIA onto 14TH AVE SE toward #105A/STATE CAPITOL/CITY CENTER - go 1.2 mi
Turn Right on CAPITOL WAY S - go 0.1 mi
Arrive at 1143 CAPITOL WAY S, OLYMPIA, on the Left
March 7th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Hey GP, I can pick you up man, send me a PM or Eric a PM and he’ll hook you up w/ my phone # / email
March 7th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Just called the hotline. Only had to wait 2 minutes. Let’s keep it up.
March 7th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
http://housedemocrats.wa.gov/rosters.asp
March 7th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
^ Actually you can just go straight through the light to get to the Capitol. No need to turn right, unless you are parking that way.
It is very easy to get there:
Take exit 105 (stay left to the left no matter which direction you come from) and head straight to the Capitol. You can’t miss it.
In another thread, somebody asked me about food. Here it is again:
Breakfast -
Hawks Prairie Inn (Exit 11 right off I-5)
Wagner’s European Bakery (a few blocks north of Capitol Campus on Capitol Way)
Lunch -
Meconi’s Italian Subs (a few blocks north on Capitol Way)
Happy Teriyaki (6 blocks north on Capitol Way, next to park)
Oyster House (4th Ave just west of downtown core)
Budd Bay Cafe (on boardwalk near market)
Anthony’s Homeport (near boardwalk next to market)
Ramblin’ Jacks (4th Ave just E of downtown core)
Old School Pizza (Washington St. between 4th and State)
Pepper’s Mexican Restaurant (Legion Way, a few blocks E. of Sylvester Park (townsquare)
McMenamins Spar Cafe (4th Ave downtown)
Falls Terrace (above Tumwater Falls. Take Deschutes Parkway S.)
March 7th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Be sure to call, text, make fliers, whatever to spread the word about tomorrow! We need to flood Olympia!
If they can spend $80,000,000 on a horse arena in Winlock, they surely can authorize King County to get $75,000,000 by having the Safeco Field / Qwest Field funds expire on time.
This should be really easy. Where is the leadership in Olympia?
March 7th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Softy is the man. Good stuff from him today.
Unfortunately doom and gloom Groz is up next.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
I talked to the folks with The Olympian regarding the rally. Hopefully they will put it on their website and on the front page of the South Sound sectionn tomorrow morning. They have posted information about anti-war rallies and union rallies at the capitol, so I hope they can extend the same courtesy to us sports fans.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
help me out.
Where is the link to the Locke interview?
March 7th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
I’m from Utah. Larry Miller is old friend of the family. Trying to get in contact today so I can hook him up with Brian. I am actually thinking about flying in to attend the rally though I am a Jazz fan.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
Just went and bought poster board for my signs. What signs are people bringing? I’m trying to think of something clever and short …
March 7th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
Just called Dave Locke. Finding out where to get downlond of the interview.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
I’m from Utah. Larry Miller is old friend of the family. Trying to get in contact today so I can hook him up with Brian. I am actually thinking about flying in to attend the rally though I am a Jazz fan.
Rockin if this is true btw.
OH…and a word of worning…the legislature numbers are floating around the OKC websites..I sure hope the phone switchboard can dump those people quite quickly.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Thanks khyde65, make it happen!
March 7th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
We’d like to see you Kent. I can pick you up. Give a call.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Thank you Groz, For giving up on the team already
god damnit.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
I would really love to go. Unfortunately, I’m coaching my daughter’s volleyball class and we have a game at 9 in Bellevue. There’s no way we can make before the rally ends.
Sorry you guys, but my family will be with you in spirit.
SAVE OUR SONICS.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
If Okie trash is calling the hotline saying they are against it, they deserve very bad things.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Groz said that the BOG committe consists of the owners of LA, GS, NJ, IND, PHI, AND SAN ANTONIO! Count one vote for Clay regardless.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Nice to hear Groz a tad bit more upbeat than usual.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
damn man, I’m workin, good luck though
March 7th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
How do you know about the Okies? I sure hope they have caller ID.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
You’d think their hillbilly accents would be a dead giveaway.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Count me in with two friends
March 7th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Do you think we can email KJR and ask them to interview with all the owners of the BOG, and talk about the new deal?
March 7th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Question - has anyone from the 36th Leg. District (Queen Anne) been contacting their Reps? You would think they would help take the lead on this issue?
If not - you can find their contact info here.
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder/results.aspx?District=36
All politics is local. Don’t just write your reps…tell them you want their position on the matter. Demand accountability. My missive to Chopp just left via email.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Five
Softy has already put in requests to all of the owners for interviews and they declined.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
GP hook up with Griff or Eric or someone.
Getting there on all public transit that early Sat. morning isn’t possible. Earliest you could there would be about 11 am (if you got good connections on at least 3 buses- I didnt look that far as it didnt seem promising enough)
Greyhound maybe but a straight ride would be easiest for you.
March 7th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Larry Miller with Locke might be embedded in this piece by Elise & Ian
http://tinyurl.com/38e8g6
March 7th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Would it be possible to take a big group of kids from a boys and girls club or something?
March 7th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
Matt Griffin is on Dori, for those that want to listen.
March 7th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Griffin was on NPR this morning too, and Derek Wong kept hounding him about parking revenues. WTF? He was really hung up on that, it was a little bizarre.
March 7th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
locke blog and audio can be found here
http://www.thefansports.com
March 7th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I know Ian played that Miller clip last night so KJR has it.
March 7th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Is there a link available for locke’s interview with Larry Miller. I haven’t heard it and would like to. Thanks
March 7th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
The guy above is not me. lol. Just to prevent confusion.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Anyone have some info on how to get a hold of BOG owners (or their handlers) so we can enlighten them as to local support around here? It worries me that they’re only source of info is Bennett/Stern
March 7th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Try the kfan site i linked to above, the latest fab5 at 5 podcast between Locke and Miller might have it. I was having trouble with my media player so I can’t confirm if it is in there or was stripped out as not about the jazz and not a priority to podcast there
But basically he said he starts out against team moves but then drifted into ‘wasnt impressed by local action here’ as he understood it but then Locke gave him some details and some push and so he said of recent efforts to retain team something like “well that certainly clouds the waters” and gave impression that he will review the facts even-handed.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
kdizzle i listed 6 NBA team contacts in some earlier thread yesterday.
but go to any nba official team site and just hunt around for “contact us” or “feedback” button
March 7th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Sorry guys, wish I could be there, but flying from SLC to SeaTac just aint gonna happen. Noone wants to be there more than I do, but we are just getting into spring ball and I just can’t afford to leave. But-granted this sounds cheesy-I will be there in spirit, cheering you guys on from Provo. Good luck.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Understandable.
The rally will get a presence and numbers arent as important as it happening and the chatter about it happening in the papers.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
I find it really discouraging that some of these ignorant, pompous legislators are treating this plan as if it were NO DIFFERENT than Clay Bennett’s plan last year. This is just insanely discouraging to think that people who don’t know what they are talking about are going to lose us our basketball team.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Anyone know how legislators such as Adam Kline and even Chopp voted on the Seahaws or Safeco issues (assuming they were around when those issue came up)?
I ask because a really subte issue here in my mind is that we are talking about basketball and not football or baseball. If they voted for those but not this they are being hypocritical.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
maybe we can mail all the owners packet summaries of the situation as it stands now, including relevant articles and interviews. Get the word spreading among the NBA elite…
March 7th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Guys, none of the getting the other owners up to speed on the situation in Seattle matters if the plan doesn’t exist due to the total irresponsible leadership we have in Olympia.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Its getting extremely difficult to be pleasant with some of the legislators, its getting to the point where I am starting to feel a little combative.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Anybody know how much direct lobbying city and investors did today?
March 7th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
I’ll be there, probably go to the Oyster House for lunch after.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
jonesy, abrajam sent a letter to owners with blessing of SOS previously but perhaps another effort following will still be a good idea immediately before vote
It is a reasonable part of a multi-front strategy in my view EJ.
March 7th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
I’ll be there with a friend.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
EJ, I think that is a great idea and have wondered it myself.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
McCoy I think Chopp was in legislature for both votes but I havent found which way he voted. Kline was not in at the time.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Sonics issue coverage in eastern Washington here
http://wsufootball.blogspot.com/
March 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Tugboat Annie’s for lunch! That’s where I’m headed.
Oh, and I rounded up one friend who already lives down there.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Never been to Tugboat Annie’s, where is it?
March 7th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Man. Wish I could go. Sounds like it is going to be a good effort on our behalf. Maybe I should ditch work? lol.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Count me In. I will show up in my big silver van with my 2 year old, decked out in Sonics gear. see you tomorrow
March 7th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
Anyone watching the game?
March 7th, 2008 at 5:08 pm
Sonics interior defense poor today too. Delembert has 16 and I believe that Reggie Evans has 9. (at half) What does that tell you?
After watching the Sonics get killed inside by the Bucks and now the 76ers, I truly believe it might be time to bring back Sene and give him meaningful time.
March 7th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
way to go everybody.just faxed the gov and told her to quit being concerned w/ bennett telling her he wasnt selling.that we get leverage at bog and more strength for a good dealio.and that we need leadership.
g
to work sat.so remember the narco’s spirit is w/ you all
March 7th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
Where is Silverman83 and his huge van from TAcoma… this could help get some more folks there!
I’ll be there. Free I may see you at the Oyster House.
March 7th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
I have put up a game thread.
March 7th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
I’ll look for you at the rally Speed, call me, I’ll have my phone.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Well go look on seattletimes website. Does not look good at all. Looks like the Gov. just gave up on it for this year because Clay said there is no way the team is for sale. Great!!!!! I am glad she had the fight in her. Dino Rossi just got my vote. She doesnt even want to put pressure on the NBA. She is so lame I can not even tell you.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
I’d love to go, but I’m in Ellensburg and have to work early in the morning. I’ll wear my Sonics shirt to work though!
March 7th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
“Gregoire See No Hope”
“If there’s no opportunity for them to buy a team at this point, there’s no point for the Legislature to do anything this session.”
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004268191_websonics07m.html
I am afraid we have misjudged the Governor. Certainly she understands that the arena plan must be in place before the BOG meeting. She just does not want to do it. This is all just political lip service from someone who does not want to spend any money on pro sports.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:28 pm
(sigh)
March 7th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
“Gregoire sees no hope of keeping Sonics — but maybe their name”
Since you give up us and the Sonics, I give up on you.
New headline…
“Gregoire sees no hope of keeping job”
March 7th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
What’s Bennett’s excuse for leaving at this point?
The Sonics fans don’t care? uncheck
There’s no arena plan with good financial support? uncheck
According to his criteria and holding him to his “good faith” word, there’s no reason the Sonics should leave. The only thing holding back that show of “good faith” is a man named Clay Bennett. He should tell that guy to cooperate and get the deal done, right?
Anything else would not be “good faith” and should make it obvious to the rest of the nba that this owner is a stain on the league.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
There is no deal that will get past this Governor. The Mayor said he has been discussing it with people in Olympia for months. I suggest the reason Ballmer raised his offer from $75 million to $150 million is because she turned down $75 million. The reason Ballmer and the Mayor waited this long to go public with the plan is they hoped to get her support. Time was running out so they gave the plan to the public. She will do all she can to pretend to support keeping the team here but clearing she is the one preventing it from happening.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
I have an idea. How about Balmer and Co. skip the state and kick in the extra $75m (maybe even the whole $300m) and own the arena outright? Then rent it to the state/city at “special” prices to make the money back.
If the state is spineless then let the new owners (Balmer) fleece em.
Ok, not gonna happen but one can dream.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Perhaps our Rally tomorrow should shift its chant from “Save Our Sonics” to “Recall Gregoire”.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
“I have an idea. How about Balmer and Co. skip the state and kick in the extra $75m (maybe even the whole $300m) and own the arena outright? Then rent it to the state/city at “special” prices to make the money back.
If the state is spineless then let the new owners (Balmer) fleece em.
Ok, not gonna happen but one can dream.” {Laporbo}
Why don’t these potential owners quit asking for corporate welfare via the Washington State Legislature and, in turn, fully fund the construction of a privately owned state-of-the-art multi-purpose facility somewhere within King County?
It’s because they’re rich, greedy pigs who want a handout.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
It is hard to understand exactly where things stand and how much the proposal announcement realistically expected or hoped to achieve. Looks like it was a total reliance on talks with leadership and they for whatever reason couldnt - as of this moment at least- get agreement to go forward with voting on the bill.
But the push from fans was noticed and should help in whatever happens next.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
Do we have two different governors in this state? The P-I is reporting something different.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/354199_gregoire08.html
March 7th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Why does it have to be 300 million? Why can’t 225million work? Or 250 and the city and Balmer split the final 25 million.
I don’t see how a 225 million dollar renovation is worse than the 121 million dollar renovation in OKC.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
Dino Rossi is a total big business whore, but he can have my first vote, that I have EVER/ considered, {shudder} for a Republican.
All he has to do, right now, is come down on my side, and not Clay Bennett’s.
There is only so far this state will go to the right no matter who is the Governor.
Now, speak up and do something if you want my vote, either of you.
I never, ever, thought I would consider it, but there it is.
Now I have to get a response for my reps in the house, to see if they want their jobs too.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
The Governor’s words appear contradictory and I can’t figure out what she meant thru yesterday and today.
Could they do something besides pass the $75 million?
She has been contradictory and off base in talking to the press about where she stands and what she is doing on this issue before.
I hold her responsible for a continuous pattern of contradiction and confusion and mostly the lack of visible actions and results to back her words.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
That said she might still surprise in whatever this next phase holds.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Nickels and the investors still have to react to whatever happened today. Maybe it will shed some light on what happened or where things go from here.
They can visibly move forward with their relationship and their case to the NBA making statements about what they are doing thru this month, next and beyond or they can go back behind the scenes. I’d be in favor of the former but they will play it however they want. They’ve already proved that with waiting til now.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Perhaps they will consider that suggestion Eric E.
If they are committed to making something happen that would seem to be only one step from the ideal and perhaps fixable later with future state action.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
The Governor was forced to make a statement today by all of the e-mails demanding her leadership. She talks out of both sides of her mouth because she doesn’t want to be blamed. If she supported the proposal she would have come on TV yesterday to pledge her support. She wasn’t at the Mayor’s press conference. Politicians love taking credit and making public appearances. Her absence yesterday is all we need to know. She is against it and would rather spend money on more important things.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Here is some publicity:
http://www.theolympian.com/breakingnews/story/381981.html
Rally Saturday to keep Sonics in Seattle
An organization called Save Our Sonics is planning a rally at 10 a.m. Saturday at the state Capitol in Olympia.
A group of investors announced Thursday it would be interested in investing in the longtime NBA franchise to keep it in Seattle. They support a $300 million renovation plan for KeyArena.
Current Sonics owner Clay Bennett has shown interest in moving the club to Oklahoma City.
For more information on the rally, go to brian@saveoursonics.org.
March 7th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
“If there’s no opportunity for them to buy a team at this point, there’s no point for the Legislature to do anything this session.”
This pisses me off because there is nothing unclear about this quote. She does not care and does not understand that the BOG can force them to stay. To bad she does not understand this. I hate my life right now!!!!!
March 7th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Good work on getting that publicity kingdome.
And Yoon (I believe) with the p-i.
Lots of self-starting useful contributions by many.
March 7th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
She understands the BOG can force them to stay. She has been talking to Slade Gorton and the Mayor for months. The legislation is on her desk. It was prepared by the Mayor’s staff. Ballmer and the Mayor are tired of dealing with her. It is up to the public to call her out on it.
March 7th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
You may be right Patches.
At a minimum there is a gap between the City / Investors and Gregoire on timing or a lot more.
If there was unity the last 2 days would have gone different as you say.
March 7th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
I understand how you feel Paul. It really hurts to have your hopes up when the dream team of local owners come out to basically do us a favor and Gregoire and her cohorts in Olympia shoot their idea down. I am really surprised she has taken this stance. I really believed from her previous statements that she wanted a solution for the Sonics but I realize that she’s playing a double game to avoid either sides wrath. Laporbo, mentioned Balmer and compnay picking up the $75 million. They have done a lot already but what if? Honestly, Balmer himself could easily put up the extra $75 million and say to the heck with Olympia. Maybe that’s a pipe dream. I like the idea of maybe trying to move forward with $225 million but I suspect that would be too far of a step back from what they envision doing to Key arena. All I know is we are so close to the finish line and we shouldn’t throw in the towel because of the stone wall Gregoire and the legislators in Olympia put up today.
March 7th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Patches if you are right that “Ballmer and the Mayor are tired of dealing with her”.
Then they have a choice:
1) grin and bear it and fight on to get better agreement, more action, more unity,
or
2) it really is up to “them” to call her out on it.
The public can suspect and call her out as they think appropriate but they “know” or at least know how they feel given what they know that the public doesn’t.
“patch it up” or “lay it out”
March 7th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
or option 3 as dmason reminds is go without her and the state.
The city and / or investors have an important choice.
Will they discuss it and come up with a mutual decision or is one driving the other and which one is in charge?
March 7th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
“If there’s no opportunity for them to buy a team at this point, there’s no point for the Legislature to do anything this session.”
Along with Patches, Paul, and dmason, this comment blows my mind because it is simply 100% untrue and inaccurate, and makes her appear as if she has no idea of what is going on. I don’t know how you can read that statement and not get mad if you have been following the whole situation.
As bad as that comment is, we can’t stop fighting until the BOG meeting in April.
BTW - I don’t understand how Gregoire is “upbeat about the Sonics” as reported in the PI. So frustrating.
March 7th, 2008 at 10:17 pm
Perhaps someone should see if they can get Dino to show up. Have him holding a sign (a la Sharpton or Jesse Jackson) that demands action from the Governor. He needs to “call her out.”
March 7th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
I have an idea for you guys going to the rally. I can’t go because I’m working. Anyways, put signs up in your car windows with the phone #’s of the Governor’s office and the Legislature to Save the Sonics. Alot of people should seem them when your on the road.
Also, at the rally, make sure you call out the Governor and tell her that she doesn’t understand. Good luck tomorrow. I wish I was there. I hate lawmakeres.
March 7th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
Her ‘upbeat about the Sonics’ comment is a statement she put out there to appease the Sonics fans. The Time and PI are basically contradicting each other with how they are portraying Gregoire’s stance on this matter. I think she has made it pretty clear though that she has no interest in doing anything this legislative session. But like we all have been saying, it has to be NOW. We have to do this before the April vote by the BOG. That’s the whole point and how, after talking with Gorton and Nickels, she does not get that I don’t know.
As fans, we should do what we can by rallying and making it known to the legislators that this matters to us and it is good thing for the city. If they can’t get that into their narrow minds, hopefully Gorton and Nickels have some kind of plan to get this to work without the State/King County. We need a solid arena plan that’s set in stone without any ambiguity to present to the league office before April the vote.
On another note, the Jocklahoman makes me sick. Mayor Cornett said that their March 4th was not Sonics specific but intended to showing the NBA that they are ready for a team. There NBA in OKC page has several stories linked to the Sonics like: “Sonics no longer Northwest”, “Seattle indifference”, “Sonics Q&A”, “Getting to know the Sonics”, “Sonics a certainty?”, “Sonic boom”. I guess I can’t blame them for getting excited but just the way they are parading their March 4th victory and already calling the Sonics their own pisses me off. It would have awesome if the state to approve this proposal, which would essentially sink Clay and OKC’s party boat. Hopefully there is still a chance for that.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
Have a good rally!!! In Oregon at a basketball tourney and checking on you guys. Make it big and I look to see you make the news down here. Save our Sonics!!!!!
March 7th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
“Perhaps someone should see if they can get Dino to show up. Have him holding a sign (a la Sharpton or Jesse Jackson) that demands action from the Governor. He needs to ‘call her out.’” {Andre}
Why would Dino Rossi want to anger fiscal conservatives — who are his constituency base — by advocating this type of corporate welfare? That doesn’t make any sense whatsoever.
As someone who voted for Libertarian Ruth Bennett during the 2004 Washington gubernatorial election, I’m apathetic toward both Rossi and Governor Christine Gregoire. Now, with that noted, my unsolicited advice to both Rossi and Gregoire is that ambivalence is the solution.
In this case, inaction prevents backlash from Rossi and Gregoire’s main supporters; plus, it doesn’t allow undecided voters to swing the other way.
March 7th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
“Why would Dino Rossi want to anger fiscal conservatives — who are his constituency base — by advocating this type of corporate welfare?”
Wanna take a flying stab at where some of his biggest supporters in the state side on this issue? Like say John Stanton and Steve Balmer?
March 8th, 2008 at 12:05 am
I keep hearing various trolls bitching about this proposal being another example of “corporate welfare.”
Dear Trolls and Idiots: please explain to me exactly how this is an example of corporate welfare.
The $150 million investment by Ballmer & Company is a GIFT to the City and Key Arena - if anything, that $ qualifies as PUBLIC WELFARE.
The City’s share of $75 million is derived directly from USER FEES from Key Arena itself - you go to an event there, you pay the User Fee. That’s not corporate welfare.
The State’s share of $75 million is derived from the same hotel, rental car, and restaurant tax which is already in place and set to expire in 2016. If that money is not contributed to this project it will simply go away - vanish - because it’s already earmarked to pay for the stadiums. It’s not like it will suddenly go to roads, or schools or whatever else. That’s not corporate welfare either.
So I ask you once again: since you’re the idiots shooting off your mouths here and in every other public media forum about corporate welfare - please explain exactly where the welfare is in this situation.
I’m waiting…
And as for the question of why Ballmer’s group doesn’t want to build their own arena, here’s a suggestion: maybe you should spend less time parading your idiocy in the various newspaper forums and more time reading the actual articles in the fucking newspaper - THEY’RE TRYING TO SAVE THE SEATTLE CENTER.
March 8th, 2008 at 12:29 am
“Corporate Welfare” in action:
Ballmer: “I’m in for $150 million. Are you in?”
Legislators: “Hey, wait a minute - what’s the catch? We can’t just jump up and take $150 million every time someone makes us an offer! We need time to THINK about this! We need time to TALK about this! You don’t even have a team! Maybe we’ll look at this NEXT YEAR!”
Ballmer: “So you in?”
Legislators: “This is all happening so fast! Whoa - our heads are spinning! We can’t move this fast! You’re only giving us a week to THINK about this offer?!”
Ballmer: “Never mind - I fold. I thought you needed my help, but I guess you’ve got this thing figured out. Good luck with that idea of getting a team later on - I’m sure you can find another ownership group. I’m done. SEE YA.”
March 8th, 2008 at 12:48 am
Maybe Stern was half-right after all: although there is a “White Knight” willing to step up and save the Sonics, as Stern noted, the State legislators are so completely and utterly clueless that they don’t care - they’ll blow the deal out of sheer idiocy.
The thing that’s priceless is that Ballmer and his group actually prefer to keep the current Sonics team and the 40+ years of history rather than trying to get another team later - but that sense of history is somehow completely lost on the politicians.
March 8th, 2008 at 4:42 am
“Wanna take a flying stab at where some of his biggest supporters in the state side on this issue? Like say John Stanton and Steve Balmer?” {Scott}
That’s a fair point, as country club conservatives from the Eastside are probably Dino Rossi’s biggest financial backers.
“Ballmer: ‘I’m in for $150 million. Are you in?’” {courtsense}
Unless Steve Ballmer and his buddies fork over enough money to finance the entire amount that’s needed to renovate the Key Arena, it’ll ultimately take some form of corporate welfare from the state government to help subsidize the project.
While I’m not against the issuing of municipal bonds — which’d be purchased by Washingtonian citizens who are willing to cover the remaining costs — it’s against my principles to advocate something that forces disinclined taxpayers to partially fund a nonessential entity like the Key Arena.
All right, that’s my stance.
“The thing that’s priceless is that Ballmer and his group actually prefer to keep the current Sonics team and the 40+ years of history rather than trying to get another team later - but that sense of history is somehow completely lost on the politicians.” {courtsense}
I’m still pissed off that Howard Schultz jewed us fans, but Clay Bennett seemingly wants to relocate at all costs. With Bennett’s riches at the disposal of the Professional Basketball Club, LLC, the Supersonics should be able to bleed money for two-’n'-half more years without denting the company’s finances.
That sucks for us.
From my perspective, we’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. Regardless of any political implications at both the state and local levels, I don’t see how anyone — including a multi-billionaire such as Ballmer — can pry the Supersoncis away from Bennett’s grubby hands this late in the game.
Now, my bleak pessimism might eventually turn out to be premature on my part; yet, it’s still my gut feeling in this case.
March 8th, 2008 at 6:38 am
RALLY! RALLY! RALLY!
March 8th, 2008 at 7:05 am
FYI
The Governor will be at Wilson High School in Tacoma this morning attending a National Board Certification workshop for teachers. From about 9 to 11am or so. Anybody who cannot make it to Olympia maybe can chip in and go to Tacoma.
March 8th, 2008 at 7:15 am
Is there two different governors running this state, or the seattle times and the seattle p.i getting one of the stories wrong. One paper has the governor all gloom and doom, and the other has the governor upbeat.
Well I don’t care which is wrong and which is right, all I know is we need to show up at the rally and show we haven’t given up!
March 8th, 2008 at 8:00 am
unknown,
Do you know when she will return to Olympia? We could meet at the Governors Mansion.
March 8th, 2008 at 8:02 am
Me and my daughter will be there this morning!
March 8th, 2008 at 8:18 am
Assuming that Ballmer or Stanton support one party over another is wrong. I do know that Sinegal has been a major contributor to the Dems.
BUT…..
This is no time or place for anyone here to try and make a point for their own political views. The fact is there are people on both sides for or against this proposal.
Here, today, right now, we are Sonic fans doing everything possible to keep the team. Villifying either political party is just plain stupid.
March 8th, 2008 at 11:30 am
Im not able to make this today - im just about to head into work but I hope everything was sucessfull.
March 8th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
ak1947, take your antisemitic usage of “jew” as a verb and stick it. i’m not jewish, but that is pathetic. you go wash your mouth out with soap and leave the sonics until your done.
March 8th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
I’m still pissed off that Howard Schultz jewed us
Watch the slurs, jackass.
Admins, care to explain how that got through moderation?
March 8th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Just got back from the rally. I would say it went really well. I’ll let Brian fill in better though.
March 8th, 2008 at 5:28 pm
FYI - AK your post has been removed and take this as an official warning. Its a terrible comment and you should know better.
March 8th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
Brian R….. (Or others too)
I read the Seattle Times Front page today and am really discouraged by the governor’s response.
Tell me - Is there any realistic hope here?
My observations:
1. She is clueless when she says that when Bennett says “I won’t sell” this is important. This is not relevant at this time - of course he will say that - who cares - remember seattle is in a lawsuit with him - why is she giving this comment credibility? He wants to move the team to OKC so of course he will say this to discourage this new arena deal from flying to he can get approval from NBA owners in April for the move. Unreal - how clueless is she?
2. She & other legislators say…. “There is no time” - This is ridiculous - a lame excuse - this is a time to get it done - not make excuses. She can say… “I’m supportive of this - I’m calling a speciall session in 1, 2 or 3 weeks for a few days to address this.” Does she not realize the obvious that - As Slade G. says so well - THIS IS DO OR DIE TIME RIGHT NOW. We can’t wait until 2009.
3. I may be missing something - but is any statle legislature leader standing up and clearly saying…. “I’m 100% in favor of making this deal happen - let’s get it done now - or have a special session. This is a great deal - and important issue - and like it or not we HAVE to deal with it NOW - so let’s get it done.”
What am I missing -it sounds like our Olympia leaders are just giving up - there is no leadership for making this happen when it is such an outstanding deal that would put legitimate pressure on NBA owners in April to not approve a move. We would be throwing our situation right back in Stern’s face and saying… “OK - Seattle is stepping up and giving you exactly what you have said for several years you have wanted - a new arena - now - back up your words and support us. Tell Clay to match the deal or sell because this is about more that what he wants - this is about all the stuff you have been saying for years about NBA & cities partnering together etc.”
Help me understand - It’s not just the Govenor being a wimp about this - I do not hear any member of our legislature standing up and saying…
March 8th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Should add at the end… “This is a great opportunity - Let’s get this done!”
Sorry - My discouragement is making me sloppy!
May 20th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Jessie
May 31st, 2008 at 10:38 am
Clothing Shop
Nice, related material and information rich. Looks great even doh it s kind a general theme and a lot of can be discussed in about. Thanks for sharing this information. regards