August 2022

By Patrick Robinson

The blending of facts and opinion has been part of human communication from the beginning. Rumors, especially in politics are part of the fabric. This isn’t hard to understand. Through upbringing, personal experience and even as some studies suggest DNA, we come to our political beliefs and mostly, stick by them. Though it’s also true that the idealism of youth often gives way to the pragmatism of more conservative beliefs as we age.

In the years before the internet the pace of news meant we had time to think, weigh, and even correct our personal expression. Up until 1986 we had codified into our national media something called the Fairness Doctrine in which equal time was provided to both sides of a debate. A vestige of this still remains in the State of the Union address the President delivers annually to Congress. The opposing political party has a chance to provide a response.

As WestsideSeattle reported on Thursday the West Seattle High Rise bridge closed since March of 2020 is set to reopen on Sept. 18.

That opening will depend on the successful completion of remaining work including a final set of epoxy injections and carbon fiber wrapping, paving, installing safety inspection platforms inside the bridge, and robust safety testing. All restrictions on the Spokane St Swing Bridge (also known as the West Seattle low bridge) will end on the same day.

SDOT shared a press release describing the remaining work:

High bridge repair: crack injection and carbon-fiber work continue; sealing the post-tensioning system

As part of their  efforts to focus on digital communication with residents and visitors the City of SeaTac has created their own YouTube channel.

Subscribers to the channel will get notifications of updates via email. Since the City has hired a videographer those will be coming more frequently now.

From recaps of summer events to SeaTac’s BMX track grand reopening, they will be showcasing what the City has to offer. 

The 1ST Ave South Bridge will see lane closures from 5am to 10:30am Saturday morning, Aug. 13.

The two right lanes on the SR 99 First Avenue South Bridge in Seattle will close for grid deck repair by Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) bridge crews

Boat traffic remains normal, bridge can open on weekends 

WDOT warns drivers to expect delays.

Information from the Seattle Police Department

The Seattle Police Department hears the many voices demanding real and lasting change in policing. As a result, the department has launched a first-of-its-kind new training program that focuses on relationships and wellness before law enforcement tactics.

Before SPD’s new recruits attend the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission for their mandatory 720-hour Basic Law Enforcement Academy training they will first attend Before the Badge (BTB). This training, launched in May 2022, immerses all SPD recruits in introspective experiences that will provide them a community-based foundation upon which to build their careers as Seattle Police Officers. 

The West Seattle Nursery Summer Garden Festival is a series of events including an open house, in person classes, and a unique sale all starting Aug. 15.

"It has been 2 1/2 years since we've hosted an open house, and longer than that since we held classes at the nursery. On top of that, we haven't had a chance to formally acknowledge that Marcia Bruno bought the nursery back in October of 2019!"

The open house is set for August 28 with a short presentation to reintroduce Marcia and the followed by a fabulous spread of food for visitors.

From the 15th of August through Sept. 15 they will feature their Summer Clearance Tent Sale with savings of up to 50% off on plants, gifts, and garden accessories.

The West Seattle Chamber of Commerce annual Cruise for Commerce on Aug. 11 had more than 50 local businesspeople come aboard the Husky Deli owner's boat the Baltic Sea for a trip around Puget Sound. Husky Deli did the catering and the fundraiser was assisted by donations from local businesses to be part of the raffle. Funds go to support the outreach efforts of the chamber to assist and enhance the climate for West Seattle merchants.

Here's the list of contributors: