Seattle Ventures Out to Play Table Topics

Table Topic questions are meant to stimulate family and classroom discussion.
Use the questions below after reading,"Getting Out, Just for Fun"

At the turn of the century, the whole town turned out for good times that were cheap and close to home. Seattle still had plenty of undeveloped space but city parks were popular and local government began to make crucial decisions about recreational development. The Centennial Page shows people boating, ice skating, camping, swimming and biking. Which photos could possibly have been taken today and which could not? Today, in our crowded metropolis, city parks have become 'quality of life' issues. What has changed and what remains the same about the way Seattleites play?
Seattle Times publisher Alden Blethen and powerful development interests were opposed to city purchase of The Woodlands. Today, there are more decisions to be made about recreation and open spaces. And usually, the newspaper has an opinion. Where does the paper make its opinions known, and how do you think they're formed? Where do readers have their say? Do you think the opinions of the paper and readers have an impact on how decisions are made?
The Times and other newspapers of the day were perfectly upfront about promoting their own agendas. Today's reporters try to keep story coverage free of personal opinion. Do you think they're successful or not? Select a news story from the paper today and try to determine the reporter's opinion about who or what is right, who should be blamed or credited and what should happen. Do you think you can tell? If you can, is this acceptable or unavoidable?
There were two central controversies over parks: whether they should be used for contemplation or active play; and whether the city should spend public funds on lands suitable for private development. The city council forged ahead with The Woodlands and the Olmstead city park system. Can you think of any current controversies concerning the purchase or usage of our parks? How do we decide these issues now?
The early 1990s were transitional times for transportation. Early in the decade, most people walked, rode streetcars or biked where they wanted to go. By 1910, cars were less expensive and more common on city streets, which changed the landscape and recreation. Look at the map of city bike trails and speculate on parallels to our arterial road system.
Do you think there were conflicts along the way between cyclists and motorists? Consider the impact of transportation on lifestyle. Do you feel any attraction to the quieter, slower pace of 1900? Or do you prefer the speed and convenience of cars and freeways? Cyclists are now venturing back onto city streets. Should adjustments be made to accommodate them?