EMT

I always feel a little inspired after attending the annual EMT CBT instructor workshop. Dr. Eisenberg opens with a review of programs in King County, discusses how far ahead the county is in some areas and areas that need improvement. This is followed by the workshop which is presented using different styles - scenarios, hands-on, round table and my least favorite - a multiple choice test - which are hopefully used by the various instructors when they go back to their departments. Questions are encouraged, treated respectfully, and answered thoroughly.

After the two medical incidents I had in wilderness situations this year I was glad to hear the doctor encouraging trips to the hospital by private vehicle if the situation wasn't life-threatening. The cost is so great to the injured and they often don't expect the bill.

The downside might be a longer wait time to get into the emergency room, but he pointed out a good triage nurse should be able to take care of that.

Viaduct

I sent this letter to the viaduct project today as they are accepting comments:

The Alaska Way Viaduct has always been my favorite drive in Seattle (other than Chuckanut Drive near Bellingham). It has also been the best way to get downtown and to the airport. I cringe whenever I have to take Five as an option!

Recently I have become a tour guide. I now showcase Seattle to the east and our wonderful waters and mountains to the west. I talk out seeing some of Seattle's old and more preserved architecture juxtaposed against the new. Or how the Olympic mountain range is within a national park right on the other side of the Puget Sound and is another great destination.

With Seattle having become so elegant in recent years I would hope the viaduct would be replaced with something modern that has a vision and a mission, similar to the ideals behind the Olympic Sculpture Park - a showcase as well as a highway.

(Image taken with a Blackberry)