The community council is in need of funds to repair the totem pole at Baker Park. As you may know, the pole is the major artistic element on the west edge of the park, sited near Mary Ave NW. It was carved from a dying monkey puzzle tree that otherwise would have to be removed when the park was created.
Unfortunately over the summer it was discovered that the base of the pole had extensive insect damage and dry rot. It was in danger of falling and had to be removed, and this had to be done quickly if any of the pole was to be saved from the infestation. Whittier Heights developed a plan to replace the stump of the tree with a new base and to have the original artist refubish the pole and replace it. This will restore the beauty of the west side of the park and the new base will ensure the pole will be safe and secure for many years to come.
We need your help to pay for the restoration. The total cost to the council is $1450, and we are hoping to pay for most of that from community donations, the rest coming from the general fund. Andrea Faste has been gracious in fronting most of the cost so the artist could begin work, and we need your generosity to repay her.
In order to make your donations tax deductible, we have arranged for Groundswell NW to be the agent of record for the work. They are a federally recognized charity. Groundswell NW was the original fiduciary agent for the entire Baker Park project, and we thank them for their continued interest in the success of this park. Please send your donations directly to them, checks made out to "Groundswell NW" with "Baker totem" on the memo line. The address is:
Sean White
Groundswell NW Treasurer
2810C NW 85th St.
Seattle, WA 98117
Thank you very much for helping to keep Baker Park vibrant and viable, a place we can be proud to have as a neighborhood park.