A relatively large crowd of about a couple of hundred people gathered outside, in this town of 10,000 people, to attend the opening day festivities of the Newcastle Library, today, before filing into the brand new structure, complete with green energy elements. Several dignitaries/politicians, such as Mayor Rich Crispo, "Blue Dog" Democratic Congressman Adam Smith (Smith officially becomes Newcastle's next congressman in January, taking over from Dave Reichert as the result of redistricting), County Executive Constantine's right-hand man, Fred Jarrett, State Representative Marcie Maxwell and others were there, including various King County Library officials. The Girl Scouts and the Cub Scouts helped in conducting the Flag Salute and the Pledge of Allegiance, but one man in the throng was grumbling about all the showy patriotism and others were grumbling about too much speechmaking, which lasted for a little less than a half-an-hour before the library actually opened close to 10:00 A.M. At least one critic, who witnessed the event from the other side of the street, said the whole endeavor was a waste of taxpayers' money as Newcastle didn't need a library. Most people seemed to enjoy the showmanship and patriotism, however, and of course supported the library. The library looked snazzy and good-looking, and coffee and cookies were being served to anybody who wanted to partake. The mayor checked out the first book, among hundreds checked out presumably, as classical musicians helped ring in a very busy first day.
No comments:
Post a Comment