Earth-friendly activists are trying to stop the sale of nine lots that once housed power substations.

They'd like to see the lots, which are fenced and, in most cases, nicely landscaped, remain as public property. Some would make sweet pocket parks. Some could be lush community gardens. The chances for either will evaporate if they go on the market, as they are poised to do.

Tacoma Power, the city-owned utility, no longer uses them. Since the lots were bought with ratepayers' money, Tacoma power is obligated to sell them at a reasonable price.

Activist Morgan Alexander is mobilizing residents who'd like the city or Metro Parks to offer that price for lots that have recreation, relaxation or green value to the public.

To plug into the campaign, get to the meeting Alexander has organized for 7 p.m. tonight, (Monday, April 20) at the main Tacoma Public Library, 1102 Tacoma Ave. S.
y

Despite a children’s ride accident that injured six people at the Spring Fair in Puyallup Friday night, the event saw a record number of visitors throughout the weekend.

A total of 118,557 guests showed up to the fair during its four-day run, an increase of 33,291 people over last year. The number of guests was 477 more than came in 2006, which was previously the Spring Fair's highest attended year.

“People just wanted to come out during the nice weather,” said fair spokeswoman Karen LaFlamme. “They were sick of being inside all the time.”

Attendance remained high even after the Lolly Swing ride tipped over Friday night, sending six people to the hospital with minor injuries.

All were released later that evening.

An independent inspector is investigating the incident and is expected to release findings to the state Department of Labor and Industries this week, said department spokeswoman Elaine Fischer.

The ride operator, Portland-based Funtastic Rides Inc., has managed rides at the Puyallup Fair for decades, LaFlamme said.

LaFlame said that in more than 20 years she’s worked for the fair, incidents have been few and far between.

“I can count them on one hand and not even use all the fingers,” LaFlamme said. “This happens very, very seldom.”