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The Slice: Sneaker brigade not his idea of community saviors
The Slice managed to track down and interview The Spokane Guy Who Isn’t Really Into Bloomsday.
What follows is a partial transcript of that exchange.
You won’t believe what he had to say.
Q: So why are you a party pooper?
A: You know, I’ve just never regarded Bloomsday as compulsory.
Q: Where’s your civic spirit?
A: I demonstrate it in a number of ways. But I don’t think jogging seven miles really addresses any of this city’s crying needs.
Q: So you can’t acknowledge a success if it wasn’t your idea?
A: That’s not it. I have nothing against Bloomsday. I’ve crossed paths with a few of the organizers over the years and some of them are terrific people.
Q: But what if we could harness the magic of Bloomsday to tackle some of Spokane’s problems?
A: That’s the wrong question, and I’m sick of hearing it. Moreover, it is unfair to Bloomsday. A willingness to put on sneakers and shorts isn’t ever going to translate into preventing immature single mothers from leaving their babies with emotionally stunted, substance-abusing boyfriends. It’s not going to heal the rift between the community and the police department.
Q: So you’re one of these people who resent Bloomsday because it isn’t about the arts?
A: Not really. But I don’t think my loyalty to Spokane should be questioned because there are other ways I would prefer to spend my time on that particular Sunday.
Q: Don’t think you could make it seven miles, huh? Don’t look good in T-shirts?
A: That’s not it. I hope Bloomsday thrives and prospers. It’s just not for me and I get tired of the proselytizers who can’t accept that.
Q: Don’t you want to experience that feel-good-about-yourself sensation finishers describe?
A: There are other ways to achieve that. Demonstrating compassion or moral courage, for instance. I aspire to live that way. And I’m just not sure a fun-run is the path to take me there.
Q: But couldn’t you run Bloomsday and try to lead a thoughtful, caring life?
A: Sure. The more the merrier.
Today’s Slice question: Who has crossed over the downtown bridges the greatest number of times?