Worries about the new Vashon Allied Arts performance space are understandable, but I think the future will prove it to be an economic plus for the Island, providing jobs as well as entertainment, bringing people here who will spend money at Island businesses, because the Island is, among other things, an arts magnet.

As for the issue of economic sustainability, I hope that anyone planning a construction project — the VAA board, the Vashon Library or an Island homeowner — is talking about employing Islanders for demolition and construction. Those dollars should be earned and spent on-Island to the greatest degree possible.

— Deb Dammann