LETTERS ON BC SEWAGE

---------------Professor says "it is a load of crap"---------------
Dear Sir:

The 15 July 2008 Victoria Times Colonist reported that Victoria's sewage disposal has become a potential political issue in the San Juans as it has done here. It is solely a political issue. There are no pressing scientific or engineering reasons (other than possible energy recovery) to object to our current treatment- discharge of finely screened effluent into deep, cold, fast flowing, well oxygenated, saline water, a natural primary treatment system. Combined with current and effective point source controls, the system is effective and adequate and does not pose a threat to the environment. Any solid waste appearing on San Juan beaches does not come from the Victoria sewage system, but probably from local sources, possibly from boaters.

Political perception based on ill-informed public opinion rather than science and engineering frequently determines the system of sewage treatment. Through the 1980s, some 32 Washington State sewage treatment plants in Puget Sound and in Juan de Fuca Strait (Port Angeles across from Victoria) applied tro the Environmental Protection Agency for discharge waivers under Section 301(h) of the US Federal Clean Water Act. The waivers would have permitted less stringent treatment where local conditions allowed. All petitions were denied, not on scientific grounds , but purely on a regulatory basis. Politics and bureaucracy, not science.

San Juan residents may be assured, sewage treatment is coming to Victoria. Our politicians scent votes in our sewage, they love spending money, and they love photo ops. However, in the mean time, don't worry about the sewage it's not doing any harm. Frankly, the whole fuss is a load of crap. After all, it's politics.

M.R. Barr
Chemistry Professor Emeritus
Royal Roads Military College
---------------Wholeheartedly Agrees!---------------
Editor:

An article appeared in the Times Colonist, " Victoria's sewage raising a stink on San Juans" (July 15th). While I find it a bit of a stretch to assert that Victoria's sewage is arriving on your shores, as a Victoria resident, I wholeheartedly agree with the import of your article.

As you may be aware, our Premier Campbell originally mandated that Victoria provide secondary treatment for it's effluent. However following research investigations in Sweden , firstly privately by a local engineer and subsequently by representatives of both the Victoria Regional District comprising a number of Municipalities and The Provincial Government, it appears that there is agreement that we should provide the latest in tertiary treatment, which will virtually remove all offensive sewage material from entering the Juan de Fuca Straits, and will be far superior to secondary treatment.

This will involve the establishment of numerous small plants, scattered throughout the greater Victoria area. The planning and execution of this project is obviously very complex, and as a lay person, I fully understand that it will be several years before completion.

I believe that in spite of the time lapse this is a good decision and one that will not be deflected by groups who have a " do nothing " point of view. While there are obviously more serious forms of pollution of our waters, the health of the ocean is critical to it's many inhabitants.

David Shillington
Victoria
---------------"Noting Can Be Done About It??"---------------
Editor:

I'm a little confused by the County Council candidates saying "there's nothing we can do" about Victoria's/B.C.'s raw sewage discharge.

1. We can ask our Congressional representatives -- 2 Senators and our Representative -- to lobby our State Department to intercede with the Canadians concerning this issue. We can also ask our state representatives to lobby our Congressional representatives in the same vein. We do have an Embassy and Consulates in Canada, don't we? It wouldn't be the first time a squeaky wheel got some grease.

2. We can make this a state gubnatorial election issue by asking the Governor to issue an executive order directing the Washington State ferries NOT to sail to B.C. during the tourist season; this would have a direct economic impact on Victoria and B.C. It also would have a more tangible sub-benefit of providing an extra ferry for service in the San Juans or in the ferry system at-large, during a time when we're short 4 ferries.

3. Provided we can PROVE that we have been damaged by the discharge of raw sewage, we can sue the Victoria/B.C. government in a U.S. Court. It will be expensive and take years, but probably not longer than the current Canadian time-table of 2016. U.S. citizens have in the past sued the Cuban government in U.S. courts and have attached Cuban assets within the United States, so this idea is not so far-fetched as it might first appear. We obviously can also sue them in a Canadian court, if we choose. Proving "damage" is the key, however -- not merely proving "disgust."

4. International Law is a complicated but fascinating subject. Historically around the world, it is amazing what has from time-to-time been accomplished via law suits across international borders. Rather than simply responding "nothing can be done," at least one of the council candidates ought to be saying "we should do a little research and see what can be done..."

5. There may already be a bi-lateral (Canada and the U.S.) or multi-lateral treaty (think NAFTA here) forbidding one country from allow noxious substances from industry or government to affect a neighboring country. It doesn't take too much of a stretch to define "noxious" as including untreated sewage

John Chessell
San Juan Island
---------------(Editor's note: The following courtesy copy was sent to us by a reader from BC)---------------
Editor:

I have just read the article in the Victoria Times Colonist regarding where your local election candidates were questioned on the sewage problems of Victoria and Vancouver.

I would like you to know that some of us Canadians also feel the same way. To tis end I have attached a copy of a letter I sent to the Globe and Mail newspaper over the very same topic. It appears to have fallen on deaf ears. However, feel free to quote any part of it if it will be of use to you.

I just thought you would appreciate other people having the same concerns.

Thank you
John Wood

Patrick Brathour - Bureau Chief
Globe and Mail,
750 Burrard Street, Suite 300
Vancouver, BC
V6Z 1X5

2010 Winter Olympic Host - B.C.’s Deteriorating Public Health Protection!

Dear Mr. Brathour,

Please take a moment and read the enclosed material as it throws light on some very questionable records for British Columbia. What started out to be a relatively insignificant incident in the larger scheme of things (though not for me personally - I own a $25,000 condemned, failed new septic system), now looks to be a part of a very large environmental pollution problem.

British Columbia - Canada’s winter Olympics host has a slew of reports that they would not like to be known. How safe is British Columbia with this sort of track record? What does it take for another polio epidemic to start or get established?

British Columbia likes to portray itself as the perfect pristine environment - “the best place on Earth”, as being the perfect place to hold the winter Olympic games. What British Columbia does not do is tell the world about their very questionable environmental record - which will eventually lead to this province becoming a very real public health concern. A public health concern that the world should know about given that a very large number of overseas visitors will be attending for the Olympic games and very little will be done to address the problem by the games due date. These visitors will continue to visit after the games and will continue to add further to the already overloaded sewerage problem. These visitors will only compound the situation and make it worse - please read the enclosed material and you will see why.

British Columbia’s Provincial Government (Ministry of Health, Ministry of Environment) is down playing the local situation and acting as if there are no serious problems. The apparent lack of concern by many people including the Provincial and Federal governments (in law and regulation enforcement) as noted in the Vancouver Sun story, shows just how bad the situation has become - and it will continue to grow while the governments of the day do nothing. Serious environmental damage is also being caused by outdated forestry practices, increase in mining, increased oil exploration etc. Sea, lake, river and water pollution in general, continues to be a major health concern. From local leaking septic systems contaminating ground water, to cities like Vancouver and Victoria pumping raw sewage out to sea. Most of the serious pollution in this province is preventable if the government is interested enough to be concerned and get involved. The government is supposed to ensure “Public Health Protection” but instead, it is illegally gambling with the well being of all British Columbians by failing to enforce the rules to prevent pollution.

I would ask that you (Globe and Mail newspaper) give some consideration to this problem as there needs to be full public awareness before things get out of hand. Public awareness will encourage/demand the government(s) to take action and do something to prevent serious, irreversible damage.

Finally, given that 2008 is the United Nations International Year of Sanitation, British Columbia’s record so far has been a disgrace and an embarrassment for Canada.

Yours truly,
John Wood
Encl. Vancouver Sun Story
Victoria Times Colonist Story
PG Citizen Story - J. Wood
- D. Redford
Coalition Ministerial Address
UBCM
Canada Wide Survey
Nathan Cullen MP - letter to Victoria
Letter to George Abbott 220508

Reader Responds To Smoking Story

To the Editor

Re: "Tobacco Costs to Employers and Employees"

I don't really see what the point of the 25 foot law is if it is not enforced. If you look at the front door to the grocery store, the pharmacy, the tavern, almost anywhere I see people standing right in front of the door smoking away.

My favorite is the people who set their lit cigarette next to the door while they go in and shop so they can recover it off the ground when they come back out.

25 feet has become a nominal 25 inches at most. I watched my mother die a horrible death, stuck in bed for 10 years thanks to smoking and I sucked in second hand smoke for the first 20 years of my life. If people want to smoke that is their choice - just don't make me or my children have to "enjoy" it with you.

From what I can tell the State leaves it up to local Health Departments to enforce the law. My questions would be how many citations have actually been issued in San Juan County since the law was passed? Has the County Health Department made a concerted effort on all islands to get signs posted about the law in places where violations are frequent - the signs are available from the State website?

Tom Tillman
Orcas island

LETTERS ON COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION

---------------------------------------Voters Urged To Vote For Petersen
To the Editor:

I have had the privilege of knowing Gordy Petersen for the last six years. During this time, I have had many opportunities to talk to Gordy about the issues that confront us here in San Juan County. He has shown me that he has a solid grasp of the facts behind these issues, as well as how the possible solution to these problems fits into the larger scheme of things. His many years of experience and record of accomplishments have been mentioned by others. But one thing which has always impressed me about Gordy is that he truly listens to the opinions of others.

One thing I want in a County Commissioner is the ability to listen to their constituents. As Woodrow Wilson once said, "I not only use all the brains I have, but all I can borrow." I believe Gordy will take advantage of all the knowledge and skills of the people here in San Juan County.

I urge you to vote for Gordy.

Vince Dauciunas
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Lovel Is Dedicated
To the Editor:

I think we, the constituents of SJ County Dist #1, are very fortunate to have 4 terrific people vying to represent us on the county council. I like Gordy Petersen and Lisa Guard very much. Daniel Miller I see around town but don’t know. And Lovel Pratt, I seem to run into multiple times a week at community functions .

That said, I have decided to support Lovel because of her long track record of community service and getting things done. I have known Lovel since our children were in pre-school together and have observed over those 12 years her constant dedicated involvement in community projects. She has been a strong advocate and dedicated proponent of local agriculture, affordable housing and education.

Lovel is and has been active in local agricultural development for years, from Farmer’s market development, to family CSA, to WSU Coordinator, and Agricultural Guild. She has actively participated in schools and the SJ Public Schools Foundation. Lovel has been a strong proponent of affordable housing and served as executive director of the Home Trust, worked on the SJC Planning commission, and in 2003 was named “Citizen of the Year” by the SJ Journal. Lovel has shown over and over her dedication to community improvement through service both as a team member and a leader.

For example, this past weekend, it was announced on very short notice that Gov. Gregoire would be speaking on Orcas and be available for questions afterword. While other candidates appear to have been putting signs all over the roadsides, Lovel went to Orcas and spoke with the Governor 1 on1, discussing ferry system concerns and our acute lack of State funding for education. That’s the person I want working for me to get things done in SJ Dist #1. Lovel will work tirelessly on behalf of our community on many issues -as she has been doing for years. Her only shortcoming as a candidate may be she doesn’t advertise herself enough, but I’m one voter who doesn’t need a campaign sign or ad to realize who the best person for the job is. Please join me in voting for Lovel Pratt for San Juan County Council, district 1.

Drew Dawson
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Lovel has exceptional leadership
To the Editor,

Vote Smart, Vote Lovel

We are very excited that Lovel is running for County Commissioner. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in many ways in our community. Some of her accomplishments are:

• County Planning Commissioner, two years as chair

• Executive Director of the Community Home Trust, named by The Journal as 2003’s Citizen of the Year

• Leader in the agricultural community through her work at WSU and the SJI Agricultural Guild

• Strategist for the San Juan Public Schools Foundation, including the very successful Save Our Schools Campaign that restored much needed school programs and services.

In each of these successes, Lovel has exhibited the highest ethical standards and values respected in our county. For example, we are very impressed that she is choosing to handpaint just a few campaign signs using recycled materials (http://www.electlovel.com/campaign-signs.html).

Lovel’s talents and expertise will be an important contribution to the County Council.

Vote Smart, Vote Lovel

Ann Harris
Luanne Hoeller
Mary Kingland
Paul Le Baron
Pamela Williams
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Join Us For Gordy Petersen For Council
To the Editor,

We strongly urge everyone in San Juan District 1 to support Gordy Petersen for county council. Gordy is a small business man who loves the quality of life here in San Juan County but he also understands that the county must operate using sound business practices.

Gordy is running for council with a thorough knowledge of the issues that face our county. He served as a freeholder and, out of concern for the quality of life here, has been attending county meetings for years.

While we may not always agree with Gordy on every issue, we know that he will listen and will make decisions based on sound reasoning rather than emotion.

Our county council can do better in many ways and Gordy Petersen is the man to make that happen. Gordy is not asking for your financial support. He believes we all pay too much money for the too much government already. All he needs is your vote on August 19.

Don’t just take our word for it. Go to www.gordyforcouncil.com and check out his positions on the issues. You will be convinced that we need someone with his knowledge and willingness to tackle the tough challenges. Sign on as a supporter of Gordy Petersen even if you don’t live in his district.

Remember to vote for Gordy on August 19.

Jim & Minnie Knych
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------Gordy Is Already Hard At Work Doing Council Work
To the Editor,

Gordy Petersen was interviewed last evening on Victoria’s leading news radio show. The subject was B.C.’s raw sewage, and for those of you who didn’t hear the interview Gordy was �" as usual �" terrific.

In the nicest possible way, Gordy made it clear to our Canadian neighbors that pumping their raw sewage into the Strait of Juan de Fuca just isn’t something they ought to be doing. And he warned Victoria’s tourist industry that unless this problem gets resolved, it’s likely that fewer Americans will want to visit their lovely city and spend their money there in hotels, restaurants and shops. (Would that our own State Department could speak to our allies as clearly and concisely as Gordy.)

Isn’t it obvious that Gordy Petersen ought to be on our County Council? He’s already accomplished more as a candidate that most of our Council members have accomplished in office.

Herb Meyer
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------Gordy Helped Write The Charter & Comp Plan
Dear Editor:

I am writing to urge voters to cast their ballot for Gordy Petersen in the upcoming San Juan County Council election. He has an extensive background in County matters, volunteering his time to serve on the committee that drafted the Comprehensive Plan and Unified development Code and to serve on the San Juan County Planning Commission. Most recently, Gordy was elected to serve on the committee that drafted the San Juan County Charter.

Gordy was the leader who stopped the unwanted mega-marina development in Orcas Village, was instrumental in securing the award winning sewer system for Orcas Village and directed the development of the village water system. In other words, Gordy knows how to get things done! He will do the same as a Councilman for citizens on San Juan Island.

I have known Gordy for over 20 years. He is forthright, impeccably honest, has a strong sense of community and is blessed with plenty of good old-fashioned common sense. He understands the quality of life we wish to maintain in the islands.

Gordy voted for the Charter. In doing so, he also made a clear statement that the Charter was going to increase the cost of County government. He was criticized by some for his honest assessment of the Charter’s impending financial cost. As it turns out, Gordy’s analysis was certainly correct.

As a voter, I greatly appreciate a person with Gordy’s strong business background and who understands budgets at a time when the County is headed for serious financial difficulties. Having a person with Gordy Petersen’s experience on the Council, an elected official who will “tell it like it is” and who is not beholding to special interests will benefit all of us.

Sincerely,

John Evans
(Commissioner Evans served as a San Juan County Commissioner for 12 years)
---------------------------------------Gordy Has 20yr History of Service to SJC
Dear Editor:

We are 40 year property owners on San Juan Island and full time residents since 1993. During these years, we have observed Gordy Petersen and appreciated all that he has contributed to San Juan County.

We are disturbed by the number of flashy activists who arrive on our Islands, push their personal agendas and then simply move on leaving behind unsolved problems and wasted taxpayer dollars.

This is certainly not the case with Gordy Petersen. Gordy has dedicated his skills and energy to San Juan County for over 25 years leaving a long trail of visible, successful and enduring accomplishments. He is known and respected on San Juan Island and Orcas Island as a community leader and honest businessman. Simply walk up Spring Street to admire the beautiful half block of stores and offices he rebuilt after the devastating fire of 2002.

Just three months ago, when the Washington State Department of Natural Resources pushed to establish a 90 Year Aquatic Reserve throughout San Juan County, Gordy Petersen stepped forward to organize county citizens against this unnecessary restriction to our Island waters.

San Juan County needs the qualities of vision and proven leadership demonstrated by Gordy Petersen. Thank you,

Kare & Ross Brown
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Gordy For County Council
I have known Gordy for 15 years and until my store Friday Harbor Grocery, burned to the ground, he was my landlord. During the years that I have known and done business with Gordy I have never met a more sincere and honest person and it has been a privilege knowing and working with him.

Gordy’s experience working on many different local Committees and Boards and his dedication to our community is unsurpassed. Unlike his competitors in this race, Gordy brings a vast amount of knowledge, experience and a sense of humor that our County Council has been lacking. While our current Council continues to spend much of their time on national issues that are not relevant to our local problems and spending our tax dollars like drunken sailors, I am convinced that Gordy’s ability to reach consensus with others will steer this group back to the problems that we all face locally.

There are many issues that need to be addressed and resolved. Reliable and affordable ferry service, affordable housing, sustainable farming, ever increasing taxes, secret meetings, just to name a few. Gordy’s experience and vision will be invaluable to the future of our community and the future of our children.

I strongly urge you to VOTE for GORDY, County Council Position #1.

Respectfully,

Ray Bigler
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Fralick Best Choice For Council
Editor:

Next month voters in San Juan County will be selecting the final candidates for County Council in the primary election. I recommend that voters mark their ballots for Richard Fralick. Richard has a long history of service to the community, going back as far as the Orcas School Board in the late 1980's and early 1990's. Richard and I served on that board together. His presence on the board was an asset to its members and contributed to the progress the school district achieved during that time.

Richard listens before he speaks. He has a scientific mind that looks at all the facts, analyzes a problem, and then works out a solution. He always completes his work with professional thoroughness, and he knows how to work cooperatively with others and bring out their best. I believe he will be a positive influence on the County Council.

Joyce Pearson
Orcas Island

Letters On Superior Court Election

---------------------------------------No Mud Slinging In Our County Please
Editor:

There were two letters concerning the upcoming election for our Superior Court Judge in the July 9th issue of the Sounder. One which commented favorably about our Prosecutor Randy Gaylord, the other was a mean-spirited attack on our Superior Court Judge John Linde. The former is the appropriate way citizens should express their opinion and support for any candidate running for elected office. The latter was nothing but character assassination and an attempt to interject partisanship in a non-partisan election.

Vitriolic political statements are disheartening. Such accusations and comments are why voters become disillusioned about politics and citizen candidates ponder the personal price of running for office. I expected better from the voters of San Juan County. The mudslinging typical of state and national politics not only fails to inform, it demeans our democratic process and, in my opinion, has no place in our local contests.

As to the “mistake” made by our governor, she interviewed both candidates, sought advice from members of the judiciary and legal profession, looked into the qualifications of both men, and chose John Linde to be our first Superior Court Judge. By choosing the most qualified person Governor Gregoire exercised leadership and judgment, certainly not the usual party politics. How refreshing.

San Olson
Lopez Island
---------------------------------------Retain Judge Linde
Editor:

I am writing to encourage you to vote to retain Judge John O. Linde as Superior Court Judge.

Governor Gregoire made a thorough examination of the candidates and obviously chose the most qualified for the position. I hope you will do the same.

Prior to working for the County, I worked at the Linde Law Firm. It was a pleasure to work for Mr. Linde then and I am proud to be working with him today. I respect and trust his abilities. Judge Linde has the knowledge, the patience to listen well and make a decision based on the laws that govern our Court.

I hope you will follow the Governor’s choice and mine and vote for Judge John Linde on August 19th.

Joan P. White
San Juan County Clerk
---------------------------------------You're Invited to Vote for Gaylord
To the Editor

I would like to invite you to join me in voting for Randy Gaylord for Superior Court Judge.

On the Fourth of July I had the opportunity to walk in our parade in support of Randy. Since then, I have had various people ask me why I am supporting Randy. For me the bottom line is that Randy is both a great listener and caring person.

I have personally known Randy for the past few years. I have found him to be a very compassionate man and leader, thoughtful, intelligent and highly qualified to be a Superior Court Judge. Often times when I have met Randy walking down the streets he has always taken the time to talk to me, asking about work and family - really listening to what I have to say. From observing his successes in his role as County Prosecuting Attorney, I would say that his understanding and comprehension of the law is very impressive and very well rounded. His dedication to public service is just another example of his caring for others attitude and I believe that being a Superior Court Judge is about caring. Caring for the law and caring for the people.

Randy's legal experience is not to be taken lightly. Being our County Prosecuting Attorney has widened and expanded his qualifications to be Superior Court Judge. I would encourage you to visit www.rgaylord.org and learn more about Randy's experience and about who he is as a person. I urge you to vote for Randy for Superior Court Judge.

Sincerely,

Clark Gilbert
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------Linde Is Uniquely & Exceptionally Qualified
To the Editor

I am writing to express my support for John Linde in the election for Superior Court Judge for San Juan County.

John is currently serving as Superior Court Judge, having been appointed to that position by Governor Christine Gregoire after extensive investigation of the two applicants who applied for the appointment. Now it is time for the citizens of San Juan County to participate in an historic election -the very first election of a Superior Court Judge in the newly created San Juan County Judicial District.

Indeed, Governor Gregoire was so impressed with Judge Linde that she is acting as his honorary campaign chair for this election.

I believe Judge Linde’s experience and background make him uniquely and exceptionally qualified to serve as Superior Court Judge. He has been in private practice in San Juan County since 1972 and is regarded in the legal community as one of the best attorneys in the county. He served as San Juan County’s District Court Judge for 21 years and prior to being appointed as Superior Court Judge had extensive experience as a Superior Court Commissioner.

I have observed Judge Linde in the courtroom and he has always demonstrated respect and compassion for those appearing before him, while applying the laws consistently and fairly. John demonstrated the same qualities of respect and compassion in his private law practice along with a superior knowledge of the law. He is a skilled and extremely competent attorney and is an excellent judge.

I would urge the voters of San Juan County to join me in voting to retain John Linde as Superior Court Judge.

Chris Kenady
Orcas Island
---------------------------------------Reasons To Vote For Judge Linde
Editor:

When you cast your vote for Superior Court judge, I urge you to vote to retain Judge John Linde. There are many reasons to vote for Judge Linde. I offer three for your consideration.

1. At the time that Governor Gregoire filled the newly created judgeship for San Juan County, she gave careful thought before she chose John Linde over other candidates, including Judge Linde’s current opponent She had more information concerning each applicant than any of us could possibly have. Since nothing has changed between the appointment and now, her decision still stands as the best choice, namely Judge Linde.

2. Judges hold a non-political office. We expect our judges will make their decisions as neutrally and fairly as possible without regard to political consequences. That is why we speak of an independent judiciary. By challenging a judge for no reason other than someone wants his or her job, we make it much more difficult for that judge to avoid taking the popular or political views into consideration when making tough decisions. Therefore, challenges should be reserved for situations of malfeasance. That is most assuredly not the case with Judge Linde.

3. Judges are called upon daily to make instantaneous rulings on evidentiary and procedural issues during the course of a trial. The more in-court trial experience an attorney has before assuming the role of a judge, the better equipped he or she is to make the correct or appropriate ruling. Judge Linde had substantial trial court experience over his 35 years as a lawyer before Governor Gregoire appointed him to the bench.

In making these comments, I do not mean to denigrate Judge Linde’s opponent. Rather I want to emphasize why voters should be sure to vote for Judge Linde.

Fritz Kraetzer
Orcas Island
---------------------------------------Retain Gaylord and Linde
Editor:

Randy Gaylord has served our community well for many years as Prosecuting
Attorney. John Linde has served as Judge for more than 20 years with
integrity and impartiality. Why in the world would anyone want to change
this? Retain Randy as Prosecutor! Vote John Linde for Judge!

Gordy Petersen
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Linde Endorsed By 30 Judges

My husband, Bob, and I are voting for John Linde to retain his position as Superior Court Judge of San Juan County. Our reasons are many. For purposes of brevity, however, one reason stands out: he has 21 years experience as a judge and is endorsed as the only qualified candidate by over 30 sitting judges from through out western Washington.

That's why John Linde is our choice this August 19th.
Susan Wingate
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Enthusiastically Wholeheartedly Support Judge Linde

Dear Editor:

I supported John Linde for Superior Court Judge in the Governor’s appointment process. I wrote a letter of support and met with Richard Mitchell, General Counsel to the Governor, when he came to Friday Harbor to interview local citizens as a part of the appointment process. That process included interviews before 4-5 minority lawyer associations, interviews of 30-40 local citizens, and interviews with both the Governor’s General Counsel and the Governor. We know the outcome of that process. I continue to enthusiastically wholeheartedly support Judge Linde in this, the County’s first election of a Superior Court Judge.

First, John was an elected District Court Judge for five terms in a small county where contention is a way of life. If he had acted in any way other than honestly, he would never have been elected five times.

Second, he has demonstrated a passion for objectivity, listening to both sides, rendering decisions which follow the law and not a personal judicial philosophy.

Third, despite his experience, he has retained a life-long commitment to learn more. He has attended Washington Judicial College. His life has been one of constant work to improve, to know more, to be the best that he can be.

Personally that is what I want in a judge. I hope that you will join me, the Governor and her General Counsel, 30 judges in the north Sound region, the two judges who served as Superior Court Judges for San Juan County previously and support John Linde for judge.

Also, please remember to vote in the August election -there will be no general election for this position.

Respectfully,
Ralph Hahn
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Linde a Judge For 21 yrs
Editor:

As always, Lee Sturdivant is an entertaining read.

Actually, we get to make a choice concerning who should be a judge in many elections.

Basing one's decision on what one knows about the candidates' careers seems sensible to me.

Both candidates have been in private practice; one for a limited time in multiple firms in multiple places, one for over three decades in San Juan County.

Both candidates have been in public service in San Juan County; one for 14 years as an attorney, one for 21 years as a judge.

Who is more qualified? Hmmm, you be the judge.

Chris Clarke
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------Gaylord Works For Public Interest
Editor:

How do we pick a judge? It is such a serious choice -not one we get to make very often.

Both of our candidates for superior court judge are well-educated lawyers; both have approval from various bar associations; both are known for working in support of young people in their local communities.

For me, the decision comes down to looking at how they have spent their careers. Randy Gaylord has worked for 14 years as a publicly elected county prosecuting attorney. Always, always, working in the public interest.

Randy did an excellent job making sure this county was the first one in the country to keep jet skis away from our shorelines. He has worked tirelessly to uphold our land use rules; to help us maintain the openness and natural beauty we so value here on the islands.

His opponent has worked just as tirelessly in the interest of private developers; to repeatedly challenge land use laws, always seeking that wedge to interpret the rules in favor of the private client. Of course we need both types of attorneys, but I would rather vote for a judge who has spent his career working primarily in the public interest. I will vote for Gaylord.

Lee Sturdivant
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------Judgeship to be Decided August 19
Editor:

It is important to note that the Primary Election on August 19, not the General Election in November, will determine who will be our Superior Court Judge for the next four years.

One year ago, both candidates for our county’s Superior Court Judgeship competed in an extensive interview and vetting process conducted by Governor Gregoire and her staff. It was after this process that the Governor chose to appoint John Linde over his competitor. Not only has John the respect of the Governor, he is endorsed by former San Juan County Judges Hancock and Churchill, San Juan County District Court Judge Stewart Andrew, State Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander, and numerous Judges from across the state.

Just as the Governor decided, Judge Linde’s experience qualifies him hands down for this position. Judge Linde was elected five times, served 21 years as the County’s District Court Judge, conducted approximately 100 jury trials, and has practiced law in the County for 35 years. John’s impeccable integrity, standards of ethics and fair-mindedness have earned him the trust and respect of the citizens of San Juan County

It is for these reasons that we are confirming the Governor’s decision by voting to Retain Judge John Linde on August 19.

Jane and Dave Cable
San Juan Island
---------------------------------------Judges Support Judge Linde
Editor:

One thing I find glaringly obvious in the early stages of the contest for superior court judge, is the overwhelming support Judge John Linde is receiving from the judicial community.

Judges ranging from the chief justice of the state supreme court to over 30 superior court judges from throughout western Washington are encouraging the voters of San Juan county to retain our quality incumbent. These endorsements are not given lightly and speak volumes of the respect and reputation Judge Linde has among his peers in the judicial system.

In addition, the two clerks of our courts have endorsed Judge Linde’s election. These two women are on the front lines of the judicial system on a daily basis and are extraordinarily will qualified to pass judgment on who should sit on our superior court bench. That person is Judge John Linde.

Judge Linde sold his 35 year law practice in January to dedicate his time to our superior court. I urge all of you to vote to retain the one individual who has the respect of those who are truly in a position to know who is the qualified candidate for superior court judge.

Even Governor Christine Gregoire has agreed to become the Honorary Chair of Judge Linde’s campaign.

David Moorhouse
San Juan Island

---------------------------------------Honored to Support Judge Linde
Dear Editor:

January 1, 2008 was an auspicious day as it marked the beginning of John O. Linde’s appointment by Governor Gregoire as San Juan County Superior Court Judge. The depth of John’s professional and personal experience was a critical factor in his appointment.

We need a man of John’s caliber to continue to represent us as our Superior Court judge. Indeed when Judge Alan Hancock received the news of John’s appointment he recognized the wisdom and the thought that went into the governor’s choice as he said, “The people of San Juan County deserve the very best and John is the very best.”

I’m honored to be part of the team who recognize how fortunate we are to have Judge Linde as our San Juan County Superior Court Judge and urge you to make August 19th another auspicious day with the news that Judge Linde has been retained and will continue the excellent service and dedicated work that he began in January.

Check out his website - http://www.judgelinde.com and when you mark your ballot think LINDE for his -
L - legal and judicial experience and his ability to listen
I - integrity and impartiality
N- name - it’s one you can trust
D- dedication and dependability
E- ethics, enthusiasm, excellence

Please join me in adding your name and vote to the long list of supporters who are pleased to work to make Judge Churchill’s prediction a reality as upon learning of Judge Linde’s appointment in January, she said, “ John Linde is an excellent choice for the historic occasion, the 1st judge of San Juan Superior Court. John will serve the citizens of San Juan County with honor and distinction for many years to come.”

Sincerely,
Carolyn Haugen
Member of the Retain Judge Linde Committee

---------------------------------------The Governor Picked The Right Person
Dear Editor:

I would like to voice my support for retaining John Linde as superior court judge. Judge Linde and I have lived here for about the same amount of time. Judge Linde and I come from distinctly different sides of the political arena. With all this history I am absolutely comfortable that Judge Linde is the best choice by a substantial margin.

Judge Linde has demonstrated expertise in the management skills necessary to operation of his "Department". All of his years in private practice and continuous re-election as District Court Judge provide ample demonstration of his managerial skill. This management skill and understanding of the law will not lead him to propose costly and illegal venue adventures such as those proposed by his opponent.

In the course of my residence here I have had quite a few occasions to use the services of the legal industry. I have used a variety of counsel in these situations. I have yet to meet a legal professional who does not speak very respectfully of Judge Linde's professional management of the District Court.

Law and Justice expenses in San Juan County are almost a runaway expense. We desperately need Judge Linde's managerial expertise to keep these costs down as much as possible while still providing quality in this most essential service of our governance structure.

Our Governor, being the ex Attorney General, has all of the qualifications to do a quality job of selecting San Juan County's first Superior Court Judge. There is a reason why Governor Gregoire chose Judge Linde. I'm proud to support Judge Linde and to urge all of you to do your homework as you make this most important decision.

Superior Court is the primary venue where the disputes of society get their hearing and resolution. Judges are the embodiment of the third leg of the governance tripod that provides the system of law that allows our orderly society to exist. We must make the absolute best choice and that choice is Judge John Linde.

I am proud to volunteer on his committee!

Thank You,
Jim Slocomb
Friday Harbor
---------------------------------------

Letters On Fireworks Ban

REVISED "Sparklers & Civil Rights: Letter(Editor's note: The following letter was sent in by Mr. Rosenfeld after his original letter [printed below this one] was challenged by Mr. Petersen as being unsupported by the facts. As a result, we received this revised letter that deletes comments on the content of Mr. Petersen's past columns) and includes this statement from Mr. Rosenfeld: I deleted the last sentence of the 1st paragraph over my misunderstanding of Gordy’s sarcastic style in one of his previous columns. My apology to Gordy.)

To the Editor,

Revised Response to Gordy’s FIREWORKS BAN Column:

Is it really more important to wrap yourself in the flag over the right to burn a sparkler one day a year, than be concerned with the assault on many of our basic civil rights these past 7 ½ years by the Bush Administration?

Many of the 4th of July fires I’ve been on here were caused by visitors. Even if we were responsible for our own kids, the problem would still be there. San Juan County joins many other, apparently unpatriotic Puget Sound counties, totally banning fireworks.

We have so much to lose. I’m reminded of one 4th of July fire on Mt. Dallas. We contacted the owner by cell phone to let him know we were protecting the house. He said, “Hell, with house, I can replace that! Save the trees!” We did.

Howard Howie Rosenfeld
Friday Harbor
ORIGINAL LETTER: Sparklers & Civil Rights
To the Editor,

Response to Gordy’s Fireworks Ban Column:

Is it really more important to wrap yourself in the flag over the right to burn a sparkler one day a year, than be concerned with the assault on many of our basic civil rights these past 7 ½ years by the Bush Administration? Which, if you check Gordy’s past columns, he not only supported the administration, he specifically supported the warrantless wiretaps!

Many of the 4th of July fires I’ve been on here were caused by visitors. Even if we were responsible for our own kids, the problem would still be there. San Juan County joins many other, apparently unpatriotic Puget Sound counties, totally banning fireworks.

We have so much to lose. I’m reminded of one 4th of July fire on Mt. Dallas. We contacted the owner by cell phone to let him know we were protecting the house. He said, “Hell, with house, I can replace that! Save the trees!” We did.

Howard Howie Rosenfeld
Friday Harbor-----------------------------------------Booo on Firework Ban
My public safety peers and the County Council have made a disheartening decision to ban all fireworks. As a public safety employee, I am perplexed as to why this issue is at the forefront of public safety concerns. While I sympathize with the issues related to fireworks--unsightly garbage, distressed critters, occasional injuries and uncontrolled fire--I am unable to agree that banning them is the answer, and I am concerned that real issues are being ignored whilst this non-issue is being addressed.

As for priorities in public safety, of the thirteen deceased friends and family of mine, none were caused by fireworks. In order, vehicles, unhealthy lifestyle, cancer, alcohol/drug abuse, homicide, drowning and suicide (gun), were the killers in my circle—so far. I can only think of one time when a friend was injured by a firework and it was unarguably a really dumb mistake and only mentionable because of that. This leads me to ask a direct and serious question: Is our public safety administrators and County Council providing this policy for their own interests or for us, the people?

I will take the liberty (as you took mine) of pointing a few things out; First, be tolerant (July 4th is 1/365th of the year). Second, don’t be grumpy (I have little respect for those whose inner-child is all growed up). And third, if you are sincere about your concerns of noise and safety, lead by example and walk. Vehicles, boats and planes are far more detrimental to humanity than 2000 degree sparklers.

My fireworks days passed many years ago, but I have been looking forward to my five year old daughter’s delightful expression when I light her first fountain, hand her a burning sparkler or flee from an out of control spinner, and thus, passing on a tradition that was passed to me.

A firefighter for fountains,

Noel Monin
Friday Harbor-----------------------------------------
Reader Resents Fireworks Ban
To the Editor:

I am really going to resent it if I can't buy fireworks this Fourth of July. As long as I can walk into a store and buy cigarettes, alcohol, hand guns and drive a car all of which are more likely to hurt me than a sparkler, I am skeptical of the goal of making me safer through this ban.

Sure, if handled carelessly fireworks can hurt you but so can alcohol, handguns, and cars. I don't know that there is any safe way to use tobacco. So why choose this way to make our community safer. Maybe because the people who sell fireworks don't have the clout of the tobacco lobby?

Margaret Thorson
Waldron, WA

"Thank You!" From SJ Public Schools Foundation

---------------------------------------incredible generosity of our community!To the Editor:
The San Juan Public Schools Foundation is so grateful for the incredible generosity of our community’s response to the Save Our Schools (SOS) Campaign. We are more than half way toward meeting the “challenge gift” of $300,000!

Through the SOS campaign over 450 families have donated $94,270 and pledged $6,920. In addition Valmark’s gift of $50,000, a gift of $10,000 from Rich and Joan Komen, and $10,000 from Roche Harbor makes the total of “matching gifts” to date over $170,000.

Now it is imperative that we raise the final $130,000 in order to match the remaining challenge gift. This will restore the athletic program (including boys’ soccer, girls’ volleyball, boys’ tennis, golf, track, and wrestling), restore support for students struggling to learn to read, and restore essential secretarial and custodial services. Pledges can still be made on the SOS hotline at 370-7925 or donations can be made on line at www.sjpsf.org. Your donation will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling your contribution!

We want to thank our Superintendent, Michael Soltman, for his leadership and the quick response of his team in identifying next year’s funding crisis before most districts in Washington even knew there was a problem. This early outreach to the community, clearly communicating the gravity of our situation, gave us the time and opportunity to respond proactively. And the overwhelmingly positive response has been possible because of this very caring, supportive, and generous community.

We want to thank the community for this initial response to the school funding crisis. We continue to be inspired by this community’s resolve to Save Our Schools!

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation

---------------------------------------What an awesome community we live in!To the Editor:

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation is tremendously thankful for the incredible community response to the Save Our Schools – SOS – phone appeal. We had an amazing group of volunteers we want to thank including many parents, school staff, FHHS students, and community members. And thank you to Kings Market for the refreshments!

Most important was the positive response from all of you who answered our calls! Over $65,000 was pledged in addition to the gift of $10,500 for the Friday Harbor Labs Science Outreach Program!

The challenge gift of $300,000 has been extended, and pledges can still be made on the SOS hotline at 370-7925 or donations can be made on line at www.sjpsf.org. Your donation will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling your contribution!

We want to thank the community for this initial response to the school funding crisis. We are inspired by this community’s resolve to save our schools!

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation

WA Schools Underfunded by $2 B A Year

Dear Editor,

It’s astonishing, infuriating, stupefying: in a wealthy state whose Constitution proclaims the education of our children its top priority, our schools are underfunded to the tune of two billion dollars a year.

On San Juan Island, that deficit works out to $600,000 a year, this year, next year and into the foreseeable future. On the table for cuts, every educational program you hold dear: AP classes, special education, ESL, marine science, the entire sports program, art, drama, music, plus the entire bus system, the school lunch program, teachers, custodial staff, administrators. If we, the citizens of San Juan Island can’t come up with this money by May 15th, something important will be cut. Not fluff, not fat, but the meat and bone of our public school system.

This is a crisis, not of our making but courtesy of our legislators in Olympia. Their solution is that we sue them – no joke - to get their attention. Our solution was on display at a May 1st public school board forum I attended at the Middle School Commons. Superintendent Michael Soltman and Board Chair Boyd Pratt explained cuts that have already been made and potential cuts now being contemplated. They asked for ideas. San Juan Islanders were brimming with passion for our public schools and with solutions both to the immediate crisis and our chronic problem. Many of the attendees were parents with a stake in the system. It was also heartening to see that citizens without children in the public schools were also in attendance. All recognized the value of public education to our society and our future. Many found the will to do what our state legislature will not: by the end of the evening Islanders had donated $3610 to the San Juan Public Schools Foundation.

Only $596,390 to go. Surely in the wealthiest county in Washington state, we can come up with that. Then we can sue the Legislature to uphold the state Constitution and fully fund the education of our children.

Bryn Barnard
Friday Harbor