Knowing the territory

One great advantage of conservatism is a focus on local decision-making. Yet Mike Baumgartner’s campaign seems to think an ideological, one-size-fits-all approach to governance will serve Spokane better than a seasoned, independent understanding of our community.

John Charleston’s letter (July 10) makes it seem as though a little education and experience in another country can solve Spokane’s problems. But it takes a legislator with a seasoned knowledge of his district to create solutions that truly benefit it. How can someone who spent less than one adult year living in Spokane know what is best for our community?

Chris Marr ran a small business in Spokane and knows the challenges our businesses face. He knows the importance of projects like the Riverpoint campus and the north-south freeway to our community, and has a proven record of moving these projects forward. He knows the dangers of a one-size-fits-all approach to governance and has opposed taxes and regulations that don’t work for Spokane. It takes more than a year to know Spokane’s needs and to be able to craft solutions for our community – let’s elect a senator with the experience to advocate for Spokane and the wisdom to reject governance based purely on ideology.

Jordan Johnston

Mead

A few days ago while visiting another city, I decided I would visit the local Humane Society there, hoping to find replacements for my beautiful Misty and her handsome brother Winchester. Walking up and down the aisles I saw many beautiful creatures, all expecting I would take them home. But my mind only centered on the one breed that I new best.

I returned home alone. But I was suddenly so very ashamed. Ashamed of only wanting that “pure-bred.” Let’s hope I can return there soon – and welcome a couple of needy mongrels to a simple loving abode.

Nancy Holmes

Chewelah, Wash.