Letter writers take on Heritage Foundation over oil, endorse candidates for Port, county jobs
Climate disaster is the real cost
I am writing to express my dismay at the editorial written by the Heritage Foundation, and published by this newspaper, that launches a partisan attack on the Biden administration’s energy policies. While right-wing think tanks might exist in a world where climate change does not exist, the rest of us aren’t so fortunate.
This summer, Spokane experienced the worst natural disaster in its history, as the Gray and Oregon Road fires turned 21,000 acres of land to ash and razed at least 366 homes. This example could easily be multiplied, as the entire planet has experienced the hottest summer on record and the onslaught of environmental devastation that has come with it.
But a passing acknowledgment of the public health disaster that climate change is causing isn’t worth a mention in the Heritage Foundation’s campaign on behalf of oil companies. Instead, the editorial’s proposal is more carbon pollution, not less, and extracting oil from one of our planet’s most environmentally and culturally significant areas, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
If Mr. Antoni thinks paying for gas is expensive, he might consider the cost to our Spokane neighbors of having their lives quite literally burned to the ground.
Climate disaster is a policy choice, and it isn’t cheap. No honest discussion of oil prices can ignore this cost — which Washingtonians are paying right here, right now — nor the enormous debt imposed on future generations through unchecked carbon pollution. Our communities, our children, deserve better than facile “solutions” that ignore reality.
Michael Bradley, Olympia, Vice President, Thurston Climate Action Team
Gundersen is the ideal choice Port commissioner
As the Port of Olympia Commission election approaches, it’s crucial to recognize Rose Chiu Gundersen as the ideal candidate due to her outstanding credentials and unwavering dedication. Rose’s remarkable work in combating human trafficking sets her apart. Over 14 years, she has immersed herself in policy research and co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention, demonstrating a deep understanding of the issue.
Rose’s commitment to preventing human trafficking is evident through her support for youth, offering training to professionals and educating youth about healthy relationships. Her collaboration with other jurisdictions highlights her understanding that this issue transcends boundaries, affecting every community, including Thurston County.
In these times of pressing social issues, having a candidate like Rose, with both knowledge and dedication to addressing human trafficking, is essential. Her leadership on the Port of Olympia Commission will undoubtedly prove invaluable. As a concerned community member and retired police officer, I urge fellow citizens to support Rose’s candidacy. Together, we can create a safer and more vigilant Port.
Steve Barclift, Olympia
Clouse is best choice for County Commissioner
If you haven’t met Emily Clouse yet, you’re in for a treat. The Democratic candidate for the new District 5 County Commission seat will disarm you with her intellect, authenticity, and commitment to public service.
The former military analyst founded and serves as executive director for CARE, a social services agency that helps previously incarcerated youths re-enter the community. All this at age 28!
Since I met Emily last April, I have watched her grow as a candidate with remarkable speed. She is thoughtful, caring, and engaged on the issues that matter most: affordable housing and homelessness, public safety, and the environment.
She has done a tremendous amount of research into county issues and campaigned tirelessly. That hard work paid off with a first-place showing in the Aug. 1 primary.
During a recent regrettable incident in which two elected officials were caught removing her campaign sign while installing their own, she conducted herself with dignity and professionalism. Contrast that with her opponent’s loud and repeated nonsensical demands that the Lacey City Council protect his campaign signs from vandalism and theft.
Emily shows professionalism, thoughtfulness and poise when talking about issues such as access to health care and responsible land use.
Her opponent, a constant and vocal critic of Thurston County Commissioners, irresponsibly calls for the county to defund Planned Parenthood and to abandon federally mandated impact studies for proposed development projects.
The choice for District 5 County Commissioner couldn’t be clearer. Please join me in voting for Emily Clouse.
Carolyn Cox, Lacey
McGregor has best experience for Port
Bill McGregor, a candidate for the Port of Olympia Commission, stands out as the ideal choice for the role, especially during this crucial period of change within the Port. With extensive hands-on experience in port operations spanning decades, Bill’s qualifications are unmatched. His concrete track record demonstrates his significant contributions to Thurston County’s Port.
Bill has actively worked to create family wage jobs, pioneered environmental initiatives, and successfully led county outreach efforts. It’s essential to recognize that the Port’s impact extends beyond Thurston County, affecting neighboring regions like Mason, Lewis, and more. Bill’s collaborative approach has forged connections with various municipalities, including Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Bucoda, Tenino, Rainier, and Rochester, underscoring his dedication to actionable outreach.
Moreover, Bill possesses an in-depth understanding of the Marine Terminal and its cargo capabilities, setting him apart in this election. Experience is the pivotal factor here. Voters should choose the leadership of someone with both business acumen and a genuine community focus. Vote for Bill McGregor for Port of Olympia District #1 Commissioner.
Jim Amador, Shelton
