Letters propose West Bay trail, urge public Port process, offer 4th of July lesson, praise Lacey unity

A pedestrian/bicycle path for West Bay Drive?

I am writing to share my vision for a multi-use pathway along West Bay Drive where the current railroad tracks sit unused, decrepit and overgrown. This path would extend from the base of the Fourth Avenue bridge, follow along the shoreline to West Bay Park, and continue north to the base of Schneider Hill or even West Bay Marina.

Riding a bicycle on West Bay Drive is not a pleasant or safe experience. If you haven’t already, and are able, I strongly encourage you to ride a bicycle along the entirety of West Bay Drive, in both directions. Try this at peak traffic times and the experience is even worse.

Next, if you haven’t already, please take a walk along the unofficial path that stretches along the shoreline and railroad tracks from West Bay Park to the Fourth Avenue bridge. You can appreciate the joy of having waterfront access, the beautiful views of the city, the Capitol and, of course, the bay, safe from traffic. Imagine a pedestrian/bicycle pathway that allows the citizens of Olympia and surrounding areas to have access to this gem.

I know that the city is struggling financially, and is having to make tough budgetary decisions. However, I fear that if the city does not secure and preserve this passageway for citizens and future generations, West Bay Drive will forever be another lost opportunity, a victim of privatization and development.

Valerie Anderson, Olympia

Public process should guide Port Peninsula’s future

I am deeply concerned by the Port of Olympia Commissioners’ decision to move forward with potential development on the Port Peninsula — before the Port Peninsula Master Planning process has been completed. This move by our elected officials disregards the public’s right to help shape the future of this important waterfront area.

The Master Plan was initiated to determine the future of the entire Port Peninsula that includes the Marine Terminal and the log yard leased by the Weyerhaeuser Corporation. Instead, Port Commissioners have effectively suspended the broader planning effort to consider development of a waterfront parcel near Swantown Marina. This premature action by Commissioners Amy Evans-Harding, Bob Iyall, Sarah Montano, Maggie Sanders, and Jasmine Vasavada undermines public trust and cuts the community out of decisions that will impact our shoreline for generations.

Port Commissioners and staff must end their discussions about this proposed development and recommit to an inclusive Master Planning process driven by the input of residents living in Thurston County today.

Carla Wulfsberg, Tumwater

The real Declaration of Independence

President Trump recently called the Declaration of Independence a “declaration of unity, love, and respect.” Wrong! It’s declaration to a tyrannical king that we’re mad as hell, listing grievances over his abuse of power, and saying we have a better idea and want his rule off our shore. Has Trump ever read it?

It states “We the People” have “unalienable rights.” If threatened by abuses and usurpation, it is the peoples “right and duty to throw off such Government.” It lists grievances committed by the king — and now Trump — including:

“He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance … til his assent should be obtained.”

“He has made judges dependent on his will for the tenure of their office.”

“He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people.”

“He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to Civil Power.”

“For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us.”

“For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world.”

“For depriving us … of the benefit of Jury trial.”

“For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offenses.”

In 1776, 54 brave men signed that Declaration to form a new nation at the peril of their life. That Declaration is at threat of surviving because Trump prefers king over country.

Make your voice heard that “We the People” reject his attempt to abandon Democracy and the rule of law. Kings are not wanted in America.

Sterling Leibenguth, Lacey

Lacey shows what America can be

As I sit waiting for ramen at one of my favorite spots here in Lacey, I look around and see people from all walks of life — different ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. Some are alone, some with family, but all seem to be enjoying their weekend peacefully.

That’s what community looks like. And yet, when I turn on the news, I see a very different picture: a country divided, angry, and quick to judge. In my 37 years, I can’t remember a time when we’ve been this divided — not since what we read about the Civil War.

I’ve proudly served this country for 10 years and will continue to do so. But it pains me to see how much we’ve forgotten how to respect different views. We don’t have to think alike — just live together with decency.

If we can do it here in this little ramen restaurant in Lacey, maybe we can do it across the nation too.

(The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the views of the U.S. government, Department of Defense, Army, or any other organization.)

Cristian Acuesta, Lacey