Weekly Columns and Op-Eds
Throughout the past year, I have written a lot about how I have witnessed Central Washington come together in times of crisis. The challenges of a global pandemic are certainly unprecedented, but individuals, families, healthcare providers, and local businesses have stepped up to the plate to provide support for our communities.
As we enter the 10th month of the COVID-19 crisis, I find myself looking forward to this Christmas season. Festivities and celebrations will undoubtedly look different, and some traditions and customary gatherings may not be feasible this year – but holiday spirit is just as important as ever.
Without the systems and infrastructure we have built to harness the power of the mighty Columbia River, the Pacific Northwest as we know it would cease to exist. Dams along the Columbia provide countless benefits to our communities – from reliable, affordable electricity and flood control to irrigation, navigable waterways, and a clean energy grid second to none in the country.
Earlier this year, our economy and our way of life was rocked when the COVID-19 pandemic caused small businesses to shutter their doors.
Native American history is engrained in the culture of the Pacific Northwest. Throughout our region, we are reminded of Tribal culture and heritage which greatly influence our way of life. November is Native American Heritage Month, and in Central Washington, we have a rich, storied Tribal history that should be recognized.
From turkey and mashed potatoes to parades and football games, there are a number of family traditions that signify Thanksgiving, but none are as important as the opportunity to reflect on all we have to be grateful for and give thanks.
In Central Washington, we understand all-too-well the frustrations that come from feeling like rural communities are being ignored. Large cities and urban areas seem to suck all the air out of the room, leaving those of us in rural America feeling we do not have a voice.
Over the past few months, catastrophic wildfires raged – once again – throughout Central Washington and across the West. Smoke blanketed the Pacific Northwest, and whole towns were essentially wiped off the map.
I have often said that small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and that could not be truer in Central Washington's rural communities. The owners and employees of Main Street businesses are integral to the well-being of our communities, and the support for small businesses I have witnessed during my travels throughout our district is inspiring.