Capitol Hill Murder Leads to Mental Evaluation

One of the most recent incidences to be dominating headlines in Seattle is the November 22nd murder of Joseph LaMagno, who fell victim to a fatal attack in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. LaMagno was attacked on 14th and E. Union Street by a stranger, Michael LaRosa, who approached Lamagno and struck him in the head with what was described by witnesses as a pick-ax. SPD later determined the weapon to be a hatchet when it was found nearby. The 26 year-old LaRosa, who had left a grocery store at the same time as Lamagno, attacked him around 10:30 am that morning. LaRosa fled before police tracked him, finding him in an alley near the scene. Although there were numerous witnesses, whether or not there was a verbal exchange nor the length of the attack could not be determined. LaRosa had been previously booked three times this year under charges of assault and domestic violence, the latter in connection with a recent ex girlfriend who now has a restraining order. According to the ex-girlfriend, LoRosa has a history of mental instability which coincidentally is now his biggest defense in this latest case. LoRosa’s defense attorney has requested the arraignment to be postponed until he is mentally evaluated by state health experts. LoRosa’s half-brother told The Seattle Times that Michael was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia over ten years ago and was no longer being medicated when the attack took place. LaRosa was also on probation, but the Seattle Municipal Court declined to comment on probationary supervision. LaRosa’s arraignment date is rescheduled for December 28th.

See one of many articles on LaRosa from The Seattle Times here.

Seattle Public Schools Releases District-Wide School Rankings

Public schools are often a consideration for buyers when they are looking to purchase a home in Seattle, Mercer Island, Bellevue or anywhere across the country. Seattle Public Schools recently released a district wide report on state test scores and yearly improvement rates. Eighty-two schools were involved and rated from 1-5, one being low passage rates and little improvement and a 5, the contrary. Twelve schools in the district got a perfect score, but almost just as many received a 1. District leaders have said that if these rankings don’t improve in the next couple of years, replacing the staff or closing schools may both be possible consequences. Schools will be provided funds to carry out improvement plans, and those with the lowest scores will get the largest dollar amounts. Hopefully, this increases the emphasis put on the importance of education in our communities. To get more details of schools where you own your Seattle home, or are looking to buy a home, please click one of the following Seattle neighborhoods: Madison Park, Madrona, Mt. Baker, Capitol Hill, Lake Union, Belltown, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, Ballard, or West Seattle.

Halloween Happenings

Below is a list of Seattle and Eastside neighborhoods hosting Halloween events. Have fun and make sure to follow the links for full details!

Capitol Hill

If you live in the area, or want to experience Broadway in all its spooktacular glory, the Capitol Hill Seattle blog has posted a “candy forecast map” showcasing the best places to find your treats, and in this case, some tricks!! They’ve highlighted the best door-to-door trick-or-treating that can be found in the neighborhood whose homes offer goodies and ghoulish displays. Hauntedbroadway.com also offers a guide to activites from parades to costume contests. Make sure to take a look at the post on capitolhillseattle.com if you want enjoy Halloween on Haunted (Capitol) Hill!!

Madison Park

Just a bit east, in Madison Park, a ghostly gala will be taking place as well!! The Madisonparkblogger.com gives their vampy version’s details, which will take place on Saturday with most businesses participating in the trick or treating. Click the link above for more information.

Madrona

Madrona is also hosting a spooky spectacle dubbed the “Halloween Extravaganza” which will be at the Madrona Playfield. With candy, storytime, games, drinks and a carnival, you won’t want to miss it!! Click the link above for more information.

Queen Anne

Queen Anne was recently voted one of the best neighborhoods for trick or treating (zillow.com). So if you have kiddies, take a stroll through Queen Anne and look at their map to find the best treats! Courtesy of their blog, Queenanneview.com, they’ve listed a few other frightful festivities for you to enjoy including the Halloween Carnival, a special Farmer’s Market, and a Halloween party at Queen Anne Manor. Follow the link above for more details on how you can participate!!

Ballard

For you Ballard residents, Holman Road will now be hosting a trick-or-treat event. Carkeek Plaza and Holman Road Square businesses will be handing out candy on Halloween day. Many of the stores will have specials and free services, like face painting and massages. Follow the link for more information!

West Seattle

Will you be in West Seattle this Halloween? If so, check out this unique celebration. This year, the 4th Annual Skeleton Theatre, a famous animatronic outdoor production has a rock n’roll theme. With Free entrance and some ‘bone’ chilling performances on Sunday and Monday night, you’re sure to have a good time. See more above by clicking the link!.

Bellevue

It looks like Bellevue businesses will be taking part in the trick-or-treating also! Old Bellevue is hosting the event on Halloween day from 2:00-5:00. Bellevue Square is having it’s own funfest on Sunday complete with tricks, treats, clowns, and fun for kids. For you grownups, the 520 Bar & Grill has it’s Halloween Party on Saturday nights. Enjoy some creepy cocktails and dance the night away! See downtownbelleve.com for more information.