Concerns run the gamut, from education to VAA | Letter to the Editor

Published 11:36 am Tuesday, June 19, 2012

I have a few concerns. Firstly, as young people leave the nest, I hope they receive updated advice. Education is paramount, but investing tens of thousands in a college degree (as a matter of course) is dangerously old school. Please remember that who you are and finding your passion is what matters most.

Secondly, we have Island development issues, which presume this recession is nearing its end. Throwing money at problems and “getting bigger” are old school solutions that may not work anymore.

Thirdly, while I feel sorry for the public outing that Tracy N. Morgan has received, I’m glad people are reminded that Vashon is not 100 percent safe. He’s not the worst our island has to offer.

Fourthly, long before the end of oil, we will face “the end of safety.” The end of safe water, safe soil, safe air, safe food, etc. What comes next? Our fatal flaw, as a species, is our over-adaptability — meaning, if people can adapt to living in Mexico City, where the air quality equals smoking three packs a day, then, is that a good thing?

There is a general assumption that our ability to adapt will save us. But our ability to adapt to

unhealthy things may actually lead to our long-term demise.  It is not enough to “adapt.” We have to adapt intelligently!

Finally, I agree with Laurie Geissinger and Mark Graham. Just like the school bond issue, questioning the current proposal for the Vashon Allied Arts’ performance hall has been misconstrued as a vote against our artistic community, shutting down valuable conversation. Frankly, I had hoped it would look more historic and ooze down the slope, complementing the serene ambiance of its neighboring buildings. I believe the current towering structure plus parking lot will ruin the feeling of the intersection.

— March Twisdale