Some #RealEstate Thoughts on the #CFPB

We in the real estate business have been hearing TONS about the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB) lately. The biggest piece for us has been the changes in the required disclosure documents that will be launching “soon”. Mainly, the required documentation has been cleaned up/made less confusing (and I think they’ve done a reasonably good job at that part). (More details in the video below.) However, I do have some concerns.

As a fan of federalism, I am not too keen on this organization being (relatively?) clear of Congressional oversight. I highly value the mission and role of the org, but also deeply value governmental transparency and accountability. I would like to see more of that with the CFPB, even considering the partisan and often grandstanding nature of Congress. But that’s another issue.

Relief is in Sight

Puget Sound weather week of 7-6-15

This delights me significantly. I’m not a fan of the 90s, weather-wise at least. For me, the 80s are hot, so this is very, very welcome. Yes, I’m solidly a Seattlite.

Puget Sound weather week of 7-6-15
Puget Sound weather week of 7-6-15

 

 

Resisting Infirmity

Yesterday, while out on a walk, I saw an older man struggling with a walker. A young woman (my assumption; his daughter) worked hard to help him into her car. Seeing such drives me; resist infirmity with vigor!

Currently, my fitness regimen is a blend of taekwondo, walking, cycling and weights. I want to add kayaking and cross-country skiing. Oh, and hiking, which can tie to walking. This region has such lovely places to do all these, it would be sad not to.

I’m seeking to combine strength, flexibility and balance. These are the critical elements to prevent infirmity. I envision myself as an old man, robust and healthy, surrounded by friends and family. A worthy goal, methinks.

An #Edmonds Kind Of Fourth Of July Eve

Today we wandered a bit. Downtown Edmonds’ “Where’s Waldo” campaign is going strong. As we set out our chairs for the parade, I saw my old favorite gelato place, Canario. It’s now on the Fifth Avenue side of Old Milltown. I was worried they’d gone under, so was delighted to see the new space. That’s where we first found Waldo. Then the Edmonds Bookshop called too loudly to ignore. Oh, the power books have over my psyche! I’m looking forward to Oliver Sacks’ latest. And we found Waldo there as well. Found him in several other Edmonds shops, too. Bonus: talked with old friends, bought a few books and sundry things. A lovely day.

Friendly Reminder – Fireworks Are No Longer Legal in #Lynnwood

City of Lynnwood Logo

As I hear another stray boom, and earlier saw some teen boys talking with Lynnwood’s constabulary, it’s time for a reminder from our friends at the City of Lynnwood.


City officials would like to remind Lynnwood residents that discharging fireworks, even the ‘safe and sane’ variety, is no longer legal in Lynnwood city limits. In addition to being illegal, this year’s unusually dry weather conditions make fireworks extremely dangerous, even a small spark could ignite a fire. The Lynnwood Fire Department and other local fire departments have already battled numerous fires caused by fireworks.

Both the Lynnwood Police Department and Lynnwood Fire Department will have extra patrols and crews available on and around the holiday due to an expected increase in call volume. Residents are reminded to call 911 in case of a police or fire emergency or to report fireworks violations. 

On June 17, 2014, the Lynnwood City Council adopted Ordinance 3066 which prohibits the sale and discharge of fireworks in the city, effective in 2015. Unlawful use and possession of fireworks will result in confiscation and/or criminal charges.

Ordinance 3066 pertains only to properties within Lynnwood City limits. To check if your property is within city limits, use our interactive map Do I Live In Lynnwood?

City officials are urging resident to enjoy a local firework show hosted by one of our many neighboring cities. Visit our events calendar for a listing of local shows at www.ci.lynnwood.wa.us/events-and-meetings.

 

Free Dance Performance by Cuidad Interior – Sun. Jun 28 at Lynndale Park

City of Lynnwood Logo

This hit my inbox and I thought this was too awesome to not share. Come and check out the renovated Amphitheater!


The Lynnwood Diversity Commission & Lynnwood Arts Commission Presents

cuidad

Ciudad Interior Contemporary Dance Performance

Sunday, June 28, 4pm
Lynndale Park Amphitheater (18927 72nd Ave W)
FREE


More Information

Ciudad Interior is a contemporary dance company founded by the Mexican choreographer Alejandro Chávez. They are based in Querétaro, México, and have toured extensively in the United States. They use different artistic disciplines of contemporary dance as their language to celebrate the human spirit and also comment on societal problems and concerns. They have earned rave reviews for their technique and impassioned performances that create an instant affinity between the audience and the dancers. They will present a series of choreographies especially created for the outdoors called Dancing through Streets and Squares.

My Sustainability Resource List

I’ve either worked directly with each of these organizations, have a relationship with or have solid knowledge about. This isn’t an all inclusive list, but my eventual goal is to craft the most comprehensive list possible.

 

 

 

#Edmonds Arts Festival | Going On Right Now

Edmonds Arts Festival logo

I feel bad that, in the flurry of activity that sums up this weekend for me, the Edmonds Arts Festival slipped from my attention. This is one that I simply adore. The Frances Anderson Center is a great venue, and the organization pulls together an delightful show. Of course, knowing several of the talented kids who have work on display helps motivate me, too.

I was able to spend the late morning there today, and plan to head back this afternoon. It runs today until 6:00 pm.

Hey #Seattle Area #Geeks: This Weekend’s Northwest Tabletop Expo

Just found out about this.  If you’re a fan of tabletop gaming, this looks  like lots of fun.

Evergreen Tabletop Expo
Evergreen Tabletop Expo

Unfortunately, advance tickets are sold out. However, there will still be some available at the door.

Last days

Sixth grade graduation fills my gaze, upon the edge of these last moments of elementary school. Then this building, about to transform, getting erased and re-written; radical transition. Changes. Our lives, constantly evolving. Sometimes these changes challenge, stress, inflicting pain.

My life brings me to this place of acceptance, I see the change as good; at least inevitable. Children excited, feeling the possibilities within their grasp. Perhaps adults long for that time of undefinedness: possibility felt boundless. Perhaps the illusion of boundlessness is preferable to the doom of definition. Only when we forget our gifts, though. Losing sight of what we give, what our community needs fills us with sadness and pain.

This future excites me, even watching elements of my youth vanish. Time absorbs all things, given enough time. Expanding over all, gently at moments, explosively at others, it always wins. Tranquility exists within, awaiting the patient grasp.