Can I throw a few more words on the fire regarding the proposed Vashon Allied Arts’ performing arts center? Driving Vashon Highway at least once a day and being peripherally aware, I’ve pondered what the brouhaha is all about. This is an Island-long avenue of hodgepodge architecture that really won’t be affected, influenced or upset by one shiny new building. VAA touches and serves this entire community. They are offering a new venue to provide Vashon more of what we all claim to love: artistic expression.

Is this loggerhead distinctive? Apparently not. I just read that a four-acre, Frank Gehry-designed memorial to President Eisenhower in Washington, D.C., which would replace a concrete swath surround-ed by parked cars, has been held up over design conflicts. So hang in there, VAA. From what I see, it’s not personal, it’s process.

— Margaret Heffelfinger