Living in South Seattle provides plenty of issues to address. We all know that. It feels like there is always something looming, whether it's the possible red light district or the proposed new waste station or the increase in crime. We know about these issues. We hear about these issues, but what we don't often hear about is the people behind the scenes.
Behind every issue we face, there are handfuls of people who are devoting more hours than we can imagine to these topics. I say this from experience because I see the same faces over and over again at meetings. And every time I see a familiar face, I smile and I feel so lucky to have these people working with us and for us.
When the Urban Planning Committee held a special hearing about the proposed red light district, the chamber was packed with neighbors. Though I was impressed by what was said, I was in even more awe with who was there. I left that hearing with one image lingering - Amie, standing at the microphone while holding her baby daughter.
When the Planning Commission called a special meeting to be held in the wee hours one morning, it was a welcome sign to see Julie in the audience and Craig with his notebook in hand.
When an email is sent from Judith saying she is ready to become more involved again, I feel so grateful because I know she's had a heartbreaking year, but I also know we are better off with her speaking out, on our behalf.
The last two years have not been easy as far as policy. We've had issues before us, big issues that involved even bigger agencies. But because of that, our neighborhoods have become even stronger, our communities even tighter and the Sound end is a known power.
While it would be nice to concentrate all our efforts into things like finding funding for a much needed bridge or a new plaza, we don't have that luxury. We fight for our survival with one hand while planning our future with the other.
Is that exhausting? Yes. Has it been worth it? Yes, without a doubt.
I do look forward to the day when I can have a meeting-free week, well maybe one meeting a week. I can't complain too much, for through these meetings I have become acquainted with the most amazing people, many of whom I now consider friends.
There's Joel who manages to get every letter he writes to the editor published. There's Nicole who feels like a longtime friend even though I just met her. There's Brian who is involved with more committees but finds time for more projects. There's Jodie who is a tremendous resource and as nice and approachable as can be; there's the other Joel who just understands and values neighborhood. There's Jerry who continually donates his event space for another pressing issue, and there's Holly, who always goes to the meetings when I know she'd much rather be kicking a soccer ball.
The list can go on and on like an Oscar acceptance speech. There are simply too many people to thank, each worthy of a mention. Our volunteers, our community activists, are an impressive group. We are lucky that we have these people living amongst us, working to make our neighborhood better.
I will continue to smile when I see you at a meeting. I'll continue to be so grateful for the familiar faces. You have given us hours and hours of your time, but the greatest thing you do is inspire and motivate. And because of that there are new faces in the audience, attending meetings, making phone calls, getting involved.
Drop Kathy Nyland a letter at the address or e-dress listed below. She'd love to hear from you.
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