That Got My Goat!

July 23, 2009 - Cool New Opportunity!

2009-07-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

Friends, Washingtonians and Countrymen (and Countrywomen):

Exciting news, and just had to share it with you! I am now officially a citizen journalist. My new blog, “Forthright with Sue Lani Madsen,” has been added to the Seattle P-I on-line news page at http://blog.seattlepi.com/forthright/ .

I comment on current events from my eclectic background and broad range of interests combined with a lifelong love of books and history, and hope to open new insights into who we are and where we are going as a society. Most of all, I hope to spur people to participate in our government of the people, by the people and for the people. Our system of government only works if people show up.

My architecture practice and our ranching operation are both doing well, and continue to make first demands on my time, but my love of writing gives me the energy to also pursue this new opportunity. My old blog at That Got My Goat (loved the name, but the P-I insisted on a one or two word title) will remain on the web for now, but I am not planning to keep it updated. I hope you can drop in and check it out this week, and maybe even bookmark for future visits!

July 4, 2009 – The Spirit of ‘Seventy-Six

2009-07-03T23:22:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, my father gave me his favorite reference book as a teacher of US History – “The Spirit of ‘Seventy-Six – a story of the American Revolution as told by participants,” edited by Henry Steele Commager and Richard B. Morris. It has been well-thumbed through, and I am sure provided the source for many an extra credit test question.

Dad taught me to always question the source, to understand the context, and gave me an appreciation for going to original documents. This book includes letters, memoirs, journal entries and other original source materials as written by our founding fathers and mothers. It documents the philosophical revolution behind the physical revolution, It was the birth of a nation “destined to fix the character of much of modern nationalism.”

I pulled the book off the shelf today to look for something sentimental to say about the Declaration of Independence by going to contemporaneous sources for context. I was fascinated to discover only one instance of highlighting in the entire 1,296 pages (plus Acknowledgements, Bibliography and Index). It is in a portion of the second paragraph of the final draft of the Declaration of Independence, right after the familiar part about our unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and “That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” Here’s where the highlighting starts:

“That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is
the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new
Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers
in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and
Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established
shall not be changed for light and transient causes;”

He skipped highlighting the part about experience proving people will tolerate a bad situation for a long time before acting to change that to which they have become accustomed, then the highlighting picks up again with:

“But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same
Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their
right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government”

The Declaration of Independence is not a sentimental document. It is a call to armed revolt, and it emphasizes the ongoing role each of us has to play in our government. Here is today’s extra credit question: What will you tolerate before you will act to create change? Use as your case study the following bi-partisan situation from yesterday’s Washington Post “Breaking News” alerts:

OBAMA ADMINISTRATION TO INVOLVE NSA IN MONITORING GOVERNMENT NETWORKS
Under a Bush-era plan, the National Security Agency will help the Department of Homeland Security screen government computer traffic on private-sector networks, according to three current and former government officials. The plan has provoked debate within DHS, in part because of uncertainty over whether private data can be shielded from unauthorized scrutiny.

Maybe this passes your personal liberty test. The intent appears to be to screen government employee communications, and we certainly want to see transparency in our government. On the other hand, once the NSA camel gets its nose in the tent and starts monitoring computer traffic, it will be hard to keep from peeking at the whole network. Social networking continues to break down the barriers between public and private information – does this NSA policy go too far, or is it hardly worth worrying about given the new context? What do you think will be the best arrangement to support your safety and happiness? Do you give your consent to be governed in this manner, and if not, have you made your desires known to your duly elected representatives?

Re-reading the Declaration of Independence is a good reminder that we are called to be vigilant participants in, not just observers of, the spirit of ‘Seventy Six.

July 3, 2009 - Focus, Focus

2009-07-02T23:50:00.000-07:00

Every day we are faced with innumerable distractions, multi-tasking like crazy, a condition that has been called "continuous partial attention." In fact, as I write this , I am attempting to listen to a podcast interview of a colleague in Colorado and have the emergency scanner running on open channel to monitor the holiday weekend traffic.

My colleague is discussing his run for city council in his hometown, and what he learned from the experience. Although unsuccessful, he found that it was an excellent way to build relationships throughout the community. He is saying that he no longer uses the term politician, but rather elected officials, to refer to those who have been elected to serve all of us. The scanner says one of the occupants of the vehicle that just got pulled over has a felony warrant, or maybe it wasn't a warrant, I didn't catch all of it. Ah, the e-mail is dinging at me, tempting me to check the new message, probably junk mail, but you never know, so better go look . . . . now what was that on the podcast again?

Oh yes, building relationships. It takes focus to build a relationship, and focus is in precious short supply. We all need to shift into campaign mode more often, holding a single minded focus on one objective or one person or one task at a time. The podcast is over, the scanner is off, the e-mail can wait and its time to close the day the same way I started it - relationship time with God. Time to focus.

June 19, 2009 – Mr. President, I Agree

2009-06-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

I have plenty of political and philosophical differences with President Obama, but today I heard him speaking at a special White House Event and agreed with every word. The subject was the importance of fathers in every child’s life. He spoke from the heart of his own abandonment and the hole left in his life by a missing father.

We’ve all heard that part of the story, what made this speech special was what came next. He quoted the statistics on children in homes without fathers, statistics that are bad for white kids and horrible for black kids, and delivered what may be the most important message for the future of America. We need fathers to take responsibility for raising their children. Having an absent father or an abusive father is no excuse but even more reason to step up and do better yourself. He is in a unique position to deliver this message to black America, to lecture without the perceived condescension a white messenger might be chastised for. His visible delight in his own active fatherhood makes him a great role model for young men, and especially young black men in the inner cities.

If he can turn the horrible statistics around, if he can redefine fatherhood for today’s young men, it may be worth putting up with his politics for four years. Better fathering for a generation will do more for the country than any political program over the next four years.

P.S. Happy Father’s Day, Dad. You did a good job, thank you for your guidance, love and support.

June 16, 2009 - Stacking the Deck

2009-06-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

When I was in the 6th grade I was given a "Learn to Play Bridge" tutorial game, a pre-computer interactive plastic and paper contraption, and I worked at learning the rules. My mom, dad, aunt and uncle played bridge regularly, and I decided to put my newfound knowledge to work. I meticulously stacked a deck so that everybody would get a good bidding hand but in different suits, just to see how high and heated the bidding would go. I strolled into the room and casually handed over a deck, assuring them I had already shuffled it. My family humored me and dealt the hand, but figured it out pretty quickly. I realized later my plan lacked subtlety. I should have made the hands less than perfect to be more believable. It was a childish stunt.

Ahmadinejad needed to learn a little subtlety before he tried to pull a similarly childish stunt in the recent Iranian elections. If all you knew about any national election anywhere was it had a record 85% voter turnout and used paper ballots that have to be counted manually, would you believe final results announced 2 hrs after polls closed? Would you believe reports of a candidate losing his home precinct, where previous elections showed a pattern of strong tribal/regional loyalty, by a steep margin in favor of an outsider incumbent? Even Walter Mondale managed to hold onto Minnesota in the face of the Reagan landslide. Now we know Ahmadinejad is not only a tyrant, he isn't smarter than a 6th grader either.

June 14, 2009 - Property Rights, Property Respect

2009-06-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

Craig is currently out on targeted grazing projects for the summer. He is hired by property owners to bring in our herd of 240 goats as weed and brush cutters to manage noxious weeds in eastern Washington and invasive species on the west side. Our clients are a mix of private individuals, private homeowner’s associations, and the public (i.e. government owned property). On a recent assignment, the target is primarily Himalayan blackberries which have invaded a former pasture. The goal is to reopen the pastures as part of a working model farm.

Folks often ask if we are worried about predators when our herd is out in the field. Four legged predators haven’t been a concern, it’s the two legged kind we mostly worry about. In urban sites, it’s the 12 – 14 year olds with nothing to do on a Friday night except dare each other to try goat wrangling. On this project, it’s a semi-rural area where the problems are both urban (homeless campers) and rural (ATV riders). Both are trespassing.

Craig visited with the campers to explain that our fences would cut off their access to their temporary home at some point during the project. They were cooperative, and understood they were trespassing. They were good neighbors while they were there, alerting Craig one evening to a possible problem with the fence. They moved on without complaint.

The site is criss-crossed with illegal and unwanted ATV trails. They’ve been handy for the project, providing an easier access through the blackberries for fencing. The trails, or more specifically the trail users, will continue to be a challenge for the property managers as they work to restore the pastures and livestock operation.

Craig heard the sound of an ATV headed up to where the goats were grazing, and figured he’d best go check out the situation. A teenager with his little brother along was parked on the trail, watching the goats. Craig told them they were trespassing, and the teenager asked if Craig owned the property. Craig answered no, and turned the question around and asked. “Do you know who owns the property?” The boy answered that he didn’t, and that he thought nobody owned the property so it was okay for him to use it. His upbringing and his schooling leave something to be desired.

I know we have kids who don’t know their Constitutional history, but how hard is “No Trespassing” to understand? How can you value personal liberty if you have no idea what personal property means? Rights require a respect for responsibility and a respect for what is NOT yours, and this young man lacked both. To top it off, he’s a great example of why ATV riders find land blocked off to them – disrespect for others.

June 2, 2009 - Weaning Day

2009-06-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

We have a commercial goat ranch operation and have about 100 does (mama goats) kidding (giving birth) each year in March/April. When a doe abandons one of her kids, we end up bottle feeding it 3 to 4 times a day for about two months. We had nine bottle kids this season, with all the scheduling and mess that goes with the process. Our bottle kids were weaned last week, and in a way I’ll kind of miss the bottle routine. The kids push against your knees, looking for the bottle, and always seem to want more. There is something satisfying about having a young animal eagerly seek you out and greedily enjoy the sustenance you provide. .

It’s always hard to decide exactly when they are ready to stop the bottle. The last three had been out of the pen off and on, doing a pretty good job of sampling the alternatives (as the bedraggled state of my raspberry bushes can attest!). As their foraging improved, they were less pushy at bottle time, interested but not desperate. We found a buyer for the trio, and they wanted them weaned, so that decided it. We mixed one last batch of milk replacer and they got get weaned when the milk ran out.

No doubt the kids will still feel entitled to a bottle for a few more weeks, and they’ll keep nuzzling around for a handout, but over time they’ll move on. It’s for their own good. We can’t afford to feed them forever and it wouldn’t be healthy for them. They need their independence.

How does this parable relate to politics? Just like the kids needed us as a safety net to survive a bad start, we often ask government to intervene in our lives for all sorts of reasons. The problem is that rarely is there ever a weaning day. Instead we have generations depending on the existence of some subsidy, program, incentive or other type of support. The entitlement mentality is a lot harder to address at a government level than in the barnyard. No politician ever got re-elected on a platform of weaning us all off the government bottle, and it’s much more satisfying to hand out the milk.

Republicans from Conservative to Mainstream and everything in between will tell you that we believe in the following (from a Reagan era Republican National Committee creed):

I believe the proper role of government is to provide the people only those
critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private
organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.

Republicans need to be honest in assessing how well we have lived up to this creed. Independent voters often point out how both parties have contributed to the growth of government and the creeping sense of entitlement. Hypocrisy leads to political apathy and disdain for the entire system. One clear way for Republicans to differentiate ourselves is to start living up to our beliefs. We need leaders who will ask tough questions about the Constitutional basis for specific programs and proposals. We need leaders who will not be swayed by the nuzzling of special interest groups and powerful individuals. We need citizens to step up and admit that every one of us has some little bit of government support that we’d hate to give up, but we might just have to when the milk runs out. Given the rate of deficit spending, the milk is going to run out sooner rather than later.

Let’s reposition the Republican Party, not in a new direction, but back to basics. In that spirit, here is the entire Republican creed:

"I AM A REPUBLICAN BECAUSE . . . .

I believe the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.

I believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed sex, age or disability.

I believe free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.

I believe the proper role of government is to provide the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.

I believe the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.

I believe Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.

I believe Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.

Finally, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideas into positive and successful principles of government."

The Republican Party grew out of the abolitionist movement, a party founded on ideals and believing that positive change from the status quo is possible. If we can break the stranglehold of 19th century slavery, we can break the stranglehold of 21st century slavery in the form of burdensome regulations and intrusive government.

May 21, 2009 - Keeping the Dog at Bay

2009-05-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

On May 12th, a group of livestock producers met with representatives from Department of Ecology to discuss water quality issues. The meeting was a follow up to letters sent to 10 local producers indicating a DOE field rep had observed indicators of poor water quality (also known as cows or sign of cows in the vicinity of a stream). Water quality data was not used, the problem was inferred from the indicators. There may be no visual indicators per DOE’s checklist on 364 days out of 365, but if the DOE field rep drives by on the 365th day, a producer may be judged to have a problem and be sent a letter for follow-up.

There are eight best management practices (BMPs) listed by DOE as appropriate responses, one being fencing creeks and the other seven addressing operational BMPs. The producer group raised good reasons why the visual indicators may not relate to actual water quality, why objective criteria should be used to tailor actions to the site, and why fencing creeks is a bad idea for most producers. Unfortunately, the DOE field rep had no way to respond other than to repeat the parameters of the current program. Monitoring management practices over time is a difficult proposition for one field rep covering a huge territory, observing a fence in place is simple. DOE’s preferred solution relies heavily on providing government grants to subsidize building fences on creeks as a clearly visible indicator that “something” has been done. The message came back clearly from producers – fences and government money with government strings attached are not solutions.

DOE did admit fencing can be a last resort, if the other seven BMPs address the visual indicators. Changing management practices may be an opportunity to improve both water quality and profitability, but it is hard to be objective about your own operation. It is even harder to listen to someone from DOE tell you “I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.”

There is an alternative - to work with two or three other producers to give you an objective viewpoint from folks who are walking in your shoes, a kind of “value engineering” process. As an architect, I work on public projects which are required to go through value engineering. A team of architects and engineers with a fresh perspective review the design documents and prepare a Value Engineering report identifying areas of problem or potential improvement. The report provides good information to an open-minded design team on where they might fine tune their project. I’ve been on both sides of the process, and learn something every time to improve my own practice. Every operation has room for improvement. If there is enough interest, I’ll work with the Lincoln County Farm Bureau to organize an informal value engineering process for livestock producers.

If we want to make fencing a last possible option in Lincoln County, we need to be creative in implementing the other seven BMPs in a way that reinforces their value and work to establish realistic objective measurement criteria. The current letters have put 10 of our neighbors into “technical assistance mode” with DOE. There were no enforcement letters or fines (yet). While it is necessary to keep pressing DOE about the scientific parameters of their program and the principle of respect for private property, those are separate from how to handle the immediate challenge. If you saw a powerful dog approaching a toddler, you’d act first to get her out of harms way and talk to the city about a leash law at the playground later.

For those who’ve already received letters, the best choice is to call the DOE field rep for a meeting and invite our Lincoln County Conservation District folks along as advisors. Pursuing legislative and administrative change to the DOE program is a long term effort, one that groups like Lincoln County Farm Bureau, Cattlemen’s, CPOW and others will continue to pursue. The immediate goal is to stay in technical assistance mode, and keep the powerful dog at bay. Building individual relationships is our best first shot at avoiding building fences.

May 16, 2009 - How's Business?

2009-05-17T16:38:00.001-07:00

“How’s business?”

It’s probably the most common greeting between Americans, right after “How are you?” Neither question is typically meant to be answered. After all, you don’t really want to hear about every little ache and pain, we all know the polite answer is “Fine, and how are you?” The exception – when you know that your neighbor is facing serious health problems, and you really do want to know if the therapy is working. Likewise the polite answer to “How’s business” is “Great, and how about you?” This is an exceptional time, and the old, polite whitewash has been dropped. We really want to know.

I’ve noticed that ever since the 2008 election and the stock market nose dive, this question leads to self-disclosure that would have been unthinkable a year ago. RIF (Reduction in Force) has become the acronym of the year for employees and employers alike. When asking “how’s business,” I’ve heard the following recently:

An experienced timber company employee in the northwest who just survived a significant RIF at his company: “I’m thankful I have a job.”
A self-employed distributor of equipment to grocery stores: “Sales have dried up, we’ve cut hours and cut salaries to keep things going.”
An architect in Los Angeles: “We’ve dropped from a staff of 100 to a staff of 40, and I’m doing the work of 5 people. I almost wish I’d been RIF’ed.”
A self-employed specialty farmer who ships globally: “Sales were off by 40% last winter. Bad timing - we just expanded the farm so the kids could come back home and join the operation, and now we’ve had to refinance $400,000 in debt.”

These blunt admissions of trouble are as good an economic indicator as any professional survey. Business is struggling, and when business struggles, the country struggles. Calvin Coolidge is quoted as saying “The business of America is business.” Some consider his statement to be a sign of the overconfidence of the 1920’s, and certainly it was a reflection of the times, but that does not negate the truth behind it. Scholars still argue about the root causes and cures of the Great Depression and whether it was the war, or the New Deal or other factors that brought us out of it. One thing the history scholars agree on – the Great Depression wasn’t over until the business sector had recovered the vitality of the 1920’s.

We are not in a Great Depression, but we are experiencing a serious recession and looking for healing. A group of Congressional Republicans has recently launched a new initiative to look for those elusive solutions. The National Council for a New America (NCNA) is a forum for all citizens to share concerns, insights and solutions with a national focus, yet acknowledging that what works in one state or community won’t necessarily be the best solution for everyone, everywhere. You can read more about this new effort on Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodger’s political website at: http://www.cathyforcongress.com/SignMyPetition.aspx.

Predictably, the spitballs have already been flying on the internet from both left and right. I scanned through several screenfuls of comments on the cnn.com Political Ticker at: http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/04/29/gop-set-to-launch-rebranding-effort/ Clearly the negative voices are the loudest, and we need to be sure that this opportunity for grassroots input is not shouted down by the so-called liberal voices of “no debate” or the rigidly conservative voices of “no compromise.” The Republican Party needs to pull together to find common ground with everyone from sincerely conservative activists to conservative-leaning independents, and find the 80% of agreement Ronald Reagan pushed us for in the 1980’s.

We have to refocus our party on our core values of limited government and fiscal responsibility, values which slipped by the wayside as the deficit grew these past few years. We lost credibility, and it will take time to earn it back. There are no shortcuts. The National Council for a New America is a good start, even if it does lack a catchy acronym.

We need positive Republicans to participate in the town hall meetings and forums, making this a meaningful exercise in figuring out “how’s business.” Go to: http://republicanwhip.house.gov/WeThePeople/ and nominate your community to host a forum. Keep checking for a forum near you, and participate. Fight off cynicism and bring your most positive ideas forward to build national and party unity. We must follow the wisdom expressed in the famous quote attributed to Benjamin Franklin:

“We must, indeed, all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately.”

(First published on Facebook at Positively Republican)

May 11, 2009 - Vikings or Polar Bears?

2009-05-13T06:55:00.000-07:00

Polar bears are amazing animals, superficially like our familiar land based brown bears but adapted to living on ice floes and pursuing their prey through the water. Lately there’s been a lot of hand-wringing over how they are losing their familiar habitat as the seas warm and the Arctic sea ice melts. The Obama administration recently stepped back from using its authority to declare the Endangered Species Act as the appropriate tool to address climate change and its impacts on specific species, but that hasn’t stopped the handwringing. Polar bears make a cute and cuddly looking poster child for victims of climate change.

Inconveniently for global warming alarmists, the “bear population has more than doubled since the 1960’s,” according to a May 9, 2009 Associated Press report. The report cites a coming crisis based on a projected loss of Arctic sea ice, currently a key part of the polar bear’s habitat. But is it really the polar bear’s preferred habitat?

During the years 800-1200, Greenland was settled by the Vikings. The Vikings developed a thriving agricultural community on the open plains, before cooler temperatures returned with the Little Ice Age. The Vikings failed to adapt, and the settlements were abandoned. The polar bears clearly adapted quite well to the cooler temperatures and advancing sea ice. My question – what was the polar bear’s preferred habitat during the 400 years of the Medieval Warming period? It couldn’t have been the sea ice - if the ice had retreated far enough to allow European style farming in Greenland, then the conditions in the Arctic must have been different. Clearly the polar bears survived and thrived.

Polar bears should be the poster child for successful adaptation, surviving both global warming and global cooling. We can choose to fight climate change like the Vikings of Greenland or adapt to climate change like the polar bears. The polar bears were clearly more successful.

April 27, 2009 - Great Expectations

2009-04-29T00:52:00.000-07:00

Technical writing for a construction specification is a specialized kind of writing, where the object is to:

Describe what you want built for people with the skills and good intention to carry out the work
Protect against problems from people with less skills or bad intentions, and
Define the rewards for meeting expectations and the penalties for screwing up.

It’s a type of regulatory writing, establishing the laws and rules to govern a project. On the other hand, the art of essay (aka blogging) is about exposing people to a new point of view or delivering a message, often with a call to action. Since I have spent the last two weeks focused on technical writing, I had to set aside the blog for a time. I missed having an outlet for the running commentaries in my head as the Legislative session painfully wound to a close. Last night was an almost all-nighter to meet my deadline, just as the Legislature stayed in Session to the last possible moment. The difference is my deadline was for a 95% complete check set; the Legislature was assigned to hit 100% done on major issues facing the state – like setting a solid budget for the next two years. I got my work done, but the Legislature didn’t.

Our state Legislature was distracted from good governance by an excess of partisan spirit and a dearth of statesmanship. Political partisanship led the Democrats, who have solid control of the House and the Senate as well as the governorship, to take advantage. They refused to bring their Republican colleagues to the worktable to help develop a balanced budget, not just fiscally balanced but also politically and socially. Their exclusivity will deservedly come back to haunt them, as they have nobody to blame but themselves for the results. The Democrats voted to waive the rule requiring the state budget to be released 24 hours prior to the final vote, giving the minority party a chance to read and comment before voting. When the Democrats did release the operating budget, a source at the legislature reports it came out 25 minutes AFTER the 3:00 pm cut-off for amendments. The Republicans are primed to take back control in the next election cycle, the negative ads will practically write themselves.

Notice how that previous paragraph makes the legislative session sound like a game to be won or lost by one side or the other? When governance becomes gamesmanship, the loser is the people of the state of Washington. President George Washington, in his Farewell Address after his second and final term in office, warned of the dangers of political parties run amok. He noted the spirit that leads to parties is inevitable, a result of a human tendency to pull together into groups of like perspective. We naturally choose to work with people with whom we share values and concerns.

I am member of the Republican Party, active at a variety of levels, and proud of the work accomplished and grassroots connections made. If you believe in our core values of limited government and fiscal responsibility, then I urge you to join us. I encourage all citizens to seek out like-minded people of good character to work together for the good of your community and your country. However, I am keenly aware of the danger of focusing on party to the detriment of clearly weighing broader values of constitutional commitment, good character and ability to compromise that lead to statesmanship instead of gamesmanship.

President George Washington was one of the earliest to warn us of the dangers to the republic in the “spirit of party.” Revenge, dissension, seeking of personal power, jealousy, animosity, foreign influence and corruption – President Washington didn’t tiptoe around the subject. It was his letter to the future, setting forth expectations and consequences for carrying forth the life of the Republic. Read his own words, from his Farewell Address:

"I have already intimated to you the danger of parties in the state, with particular reference to the founding of them on geographical discriminations. Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party, generally.
This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its root in the strongest passions of the human mind. It exists under different shapes in all governments, more or less stifled, controlled or repressed; but in those of popular form, it is seen in its greatest rankness, and is truly their worst enemy.
The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. The disorders and miseries, which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of Public Liberty.
Without looking forward to an extremity of this kind, (which nevertheless ought not to be entirely out of sight,) the common and continued mischiefs of the spirit f party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of wise people to discourage and restrain it.
It serves always to distract the Public Councils, and enfeeble the Public Administration. It agitates the Community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms; kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which find a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and will of one country are subjected to the policy and will of another.
There is an opinion, that parties in free countries are useful checks upon the administration of the Government, and serve to keep alive the spirit of Liberty. This within certain limits is probably true; and in Governments of a Monarchical cast, Patriotism may look with indulgence, if not with favor, upon the spirit of party. But in those of a popular character, in Governments purely elective, it is a spirit not to be encouraged. From their natural tendency, it is certain there will always be enough of that spirit for every salutary purpose. And, there being constant danger of excess, the effort ought to be, in force of public opinion, to mitigate and assuage it. A fire not to be quenched, it demands a uniform vigilance to prevent it bursting into a flame, lest instead of warming, it should consume."

We need to go back and rediscover the specifications for the country. We were blessed with a first president who served his country with integrity and insight, eschewing kingly titles and perpetual power for the good of the nation. Re-read President Washington’s entire Farewell Address, you can find it on Wikipedia and any number of websites and books. I know it’s an old fashioned writing style, persevere and read it anyway, and heed his advice. He did absolutely the best technical writing on the subject of maintaining the republic that you’ll ever read, describing:

What we can achieve as a people with the skills and good intention to carry out the work
Dangers to be avoided, and
The rewards for meeting his hopes and expectations for the republic for which he sacrificed so much.

Political parties will always be with us. They are a useful way to organize people to work on problems with a common goal. As you work with the party of your choice, make sure that you are working for the common goal of the good of the country, following in George Washington's footsteps. Expect your elected representatives to do the same, and remain vigilant lest the fire of party spirit consume us.

April 13, 2009 - Countdown to Tax Day

2009-04-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

Budgets can be built in one of two ways – decide what you need to buy and find the money to pay for it, or decide how much you have to spend and prioritize spending within the available income. In the first kind of budgeting, you may need to get a better job, or a second job or use some other tactic to increase income that doesn’t involve buying lottery tickets. In the second kind of budgeting, you will have to determine the difference between needs (tithe, food, transport to work, shelter) and wants (toys, imported Swiss vs. Tillamook cheddar, used car vs. new, rent vs. buy a home). The 2009 budgets proposed by the President and our Governor are of the “let spending set the budget” type, and we all know how government increases income to meet a spending budget – by taking more of our income.

As we approach Tax Day, let’s take a look at the question of needs vs. wants. Think back to your first real job and your first real bills, not just paying for your own pizza and movie tickets but grown-up bills like electricity, rent and insurance. You made it through that first year, wished you had more money, but life was okay and you survived. You worked hard, and the next year got a promotion and a raise. If you were an average young American, your “budget” went up as well, meaning you spent whatever you made. If you were really average, you got a credit card or two and spent a little bit more than you made, because next week, or next month or next year you were sure you’d have more money and pay it off. There was always something more to buy. Did you need it, or want it?

Now think back just four years. In April of 2005, were you generally satisfied with the services being provided to you by the state of Washington? The budget was balanced, and income projections showed enough income to cover current commitments and produce a surplus. Instead of using the surplus to pay off debts like the skipped pension fund payments, the legislature acted like a 20 something kid with his/her first real job and good prospects for the future, and went out and committed to expanding government, adding employees and starting more programs. Priorities of government went out the window and budgeting slipped from what do we need to where can we spend.

We need to exercise restraint on our personal budgets, and ask our elected representatives to exercise that same restraint with the public purse. Don’t roll over in resignation. Send a message to Olympia and Washington D.C. by writing your representatives, attending a Tax Day Tea Party Rally, and encouraging others to join you. We still have a government by the people and for the people, but only if we, the people, will speak up.

April 8, 2009 - The Least of These

2009-04-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

There was nothing unusual about the chance encounter in the parking lot, but something made me turn back. Panhandlers regularly ask for money in downtown Spokane, and my response is usually to smile and sadly shake my head. This man was hanging out next to the alley behind Rocky Rococo Pizza where the restaurant workers take their smoke breaks. He was smoking a cigarette. I walked by without even a smile as he said softly “Ma’am, could you spare some change? I haven’t eaten today.”

I walked towards the stairs, thinking about all I needed to get done that afternoon. I think it was guilt about not at least acknowledging him with a nod that turned me around. He had gotten almost all the way down the alley when I called out “Excuse me!” He hesitated, and I thought maybe I was off the hook, then he turned. “I won’t give you any money, but I’ll buy you a piece of pizza.” He started back and I turned to lead the way to the restaurant.

As we walked through the dining room, I could smell the nights on the street wafting from his clothes. He followed three steps behind, and said still more softly, “Just one of those pieces already boxed would be nice.”

I pointed to the display behind the counter, where the freshly cut slices rested on a warming rack, each stack neatly labeled with the type of pizza. “Which kind do you like best?” I asked.

He paused. “I can’t read,” he whispered.

My throat choked up. I cheerfully read off the choices, and he selected sausage and pepperoni, but I kept thinking about what he’d said moments before. “I can’t read.” People who should have been there for him as a child, to make sure he mastered such a basic skill, had let him down. I paid the $4.23 for his pizza and pop, and gestured to a table, bidding him to “enjoy.” He said thanks and walked quickly out the door, back to the world that was home for the homeless.

I didn’t do anything particularly magnanimous. My parking bill for the day was three times what I spent on his meal. What the whole incident reminded me of most of all is the story of the little boy and the old man walking along the seashore at low tide. There were dozens of starfish stranded on the beach, and the little boy kept stopping to pick one up and throw it back into the water. The old man told him there was no point, he couldn’t possibly throw all the starfish back into the ocean and it wouldn’t make any difference. The little boy stopped to pick up another starfish and replied, “But it will make a difference to this one.” Today I picked up one starfish, at one low tide. I wish I could have done more to break him out of his prison of illiteracy and homelessness.

This week, as we walk through the events leading to Easter Sunday and the glorious reminder of all that Jesus Christ has done for us, it is fitting for each of us to try and find our starfish. It is the least we can do as we await His triumphal return. Jesus' words are directed to us as individuals in Matthew 25: 31 to 46, saying:
“. . . Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of
the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”

April 2, 2009 - Personal Community Investment

2009-04-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

A nice young man called today and asked if he had reached the Madsen Ranch, and would I agree to participate in a university survey on barriers to small farm success. There was a bummer kid bleating in the laundry room and I needed to get on the road to a local Chamber of Commerce meeting, but I agreed to his promised 15 minute survey. My sister-in-law works for a company that contracts for surveys on natural resource issues, and I know what it means to get a willing participant on the line.

I was also curious about the questions. How survey questions are phrased and the range of responses allowed will color the results, and I wanted to see what bias I could detect. The surveyor was open to fill in the blank answers, diffusing the most glaring biases, other than to “do something.” Humans seem hard-wired to want to “do something.”

Several questions focused on marketing and distribution. We sell quite a few goats directly to local individuals who value fresh goat meat and do their own butchering. My biggest marketing problem is that I don’t speak Hmong or Burmese. As for distribution, our biggest barrier to retail markets is lack of access to USDA slaughter facilities for small carcass animals. It’s pretty ridiculous that local goat and lamb can’t compete economically with New Zealand imports.

There were a few questions about insurance, and I confirmed it was difficult to find coverage. Only one insurance company would write the kind of commercial coverage we needed for our unique custom farming operation. Insurance competiton in Washington is squelched by a system that emphasizes regulation over competition.

The last series of questions centered around transportation and delivery barriers, focusing on what kinds of equipment we used and distances traveled. Then it took an interesting turn, with a question about borrowing equipment. Yes, we do occasionally borrow equipment from neighbors or trade labor, the usual neighborly favors people do in the country. No, we don’t have any formal agreements, it’s all on a handshake. Then he asked how much time per week we spent “managing” these kinds of cooperative arrangements. The question seemed to be fishing for justification for a formal co-op, with managers and grants and a bunch of paperwork.

The neighborly system works just fine, thank you very much, and the worst thing we could do would be to institutionalize it. We operate on trust, shared values, and the natural interdependence that exists in rural communities. It works because that’s how you live in the country, but I figured he needed a more university style explanation. I asked if he’d ever heard of the concept of an emotional bank account, a metaphor developed by Stephen Covey, author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” We don’t spend time “managing” a co-op, but we do invest time in our community, as do our neighbors. We look out for each other and lend equipment because we all have a personal investment at stake in the health and survival of our community.

I asked for a copy of the final survey results, anticipated later this summer. I hope it doesn’t become a justification to scratch that urge to “do something,” for yet another stimulus program to convert volunteering into a paid profession. That truly gets my goat, but that’s a subject for another blog!

March 27, 2009 - The View from Flyover Country

2009-03-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

It’s a balmy 5 degrees F in Minot North Dakota this morning, a bright sunny day with a gorgeous blue sky. There are rumors of another blizzard next week, meanwhile we’ll enjoy today. I traveled here on the Empire Builder, Amtrak’s service from Seattle to Chicago. We left Spokane shortly after 1 am, which brought us to beautiful Glacier National Park in time for breakfast. We crossed Marias Pass and the Continental Divide mid-afternoon and headed out onto the Great Plains.

I’ve traveled on the ground through “fly over country” many times. We passed abandoned farmhouses and stubborn little towns on the prairie, a few deer and a herd of antelope, and dusty pickup trucks waiting at train crossings. The wheat fields were barren and snow dusted. The landscape reminds me of home except with the hills of the Palouse flattened out. It is an alien culture to many folks from urban/suburban America, a place where it is 200 or more miles to the nearest freeway and the Blackberry service fades in and out.

It occurred to me that a trip like this should be required for anyone aspiring to serve in a federal position in Washington D.C. The wide open skies and long distances have to be experienced firsthand, and a quick fly in to Boise or Butte doesn’t do it justice. Anybody in a position to write or influence legislation and regulation needs to understand firsthand the broad range of micro-cultures and climates across the United States, to meet real people who live in places named Curlew and Cut Bank and Shelby and Minot.

Federal agencies are big fans of sending staff to “diversity training.” The biggest diversity gap we face in this country is between urban and rural culture. Leaders from the back country and the open range necessarily learn to navigate in the city centers of power. Leaders from the coastal megalopolises and metropolitan centers need to experience why the world looks different from places called the Great Plains or the Horse Heaven Hills. How about a few new requirements for a Cabinet level position – not only do you have to pay your income taxes on time like an ordinary citizen, but you have to spend at least 24 hours on a train crossing the country by land, then drive a couple hundred miles from a whistle-stop station to a small town with no cable internet service, and spend a week experiencing life off the fast lane.

It’ll never happen.

March 24, 2009 - Save the Electoral College and Fix the Real Problem

2009-03-24T15:52:00.000-07:00

The Washington Legislature is currently considering a bill (SB5599) to abolish the Electoral College in favor of direct popular vote. This is the kind of idea that sounds superficially good, but on further reflection will cause harm to our system of government. We rely on a delicate balance between very large and very small states to hold the union together. The Electoral College is a part of that balance, and has been from the beginning of the republic. It has worked well, with isolated instances of popular vote varying from the Electoral College results. It does not need to be fixed.

What will really move to fix the inequities we see in current national campaigning is the regional primary proposal from the National Association of Secretaries of State. The Rotating Regional Presidential Primaries plan allows each region to have a turn at being the first up in a presidential year. Coordinating primaries within a region will allow candidates to focus their message and spend time in smaller and less populous states. Supported unanimously by all 50 states, the plan is on line at http://www.nass,org/. This carefully thought out proposal addresses the underlying causes of perceived inequities and unfairness of the current system. National popular vote is a superficial reaction to a larger problem.

Urge you representatives to REJECT SB5599.

March 15, 2009 - Cops and Citizens?

2009-03-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago, I was called to jury duty. There is an automatic exemption available to volunteer firefighters in recognition of our service to the community as first responders, but I was curious to learn about the system from the inside. I was selected to hear a trial and seated on the jury panel. It was an honor to serve with a random group of citizens, all trying to do our best to reach a fair conclusion based on the case as presented and the instructions as given. My first reaction was guilty on the 2nd count, not guilty on the 1st count. In the end we convicted the defendant on the 1st count but acquitted on the 2nd count on the grounds that there was a reasonable doubt as to whether he had knowingly violated the terms of his release. We did our best.

I am willing to assume that the jurors in the Jay Olsen/Shonto Pete trial did their best under the conditions placed on them by the court system. For those of you unfamiliar with the front page of the Spokesman-Review, here’s the opening line from Saturday’s story on the case:

“Suspended Spokane police Officer Jay Olsen was acquitted of first-degree
assault and reckless endangerment Friday for the shooting of Shonto Pete in the
head and firing four bullets in Peaceful Valley on Feb. 26, 2007.”

I choose to write about the case today because two neighbors brought it up to me on Saturday. These neighbors are not knee-jerk bleeding heart liberals coming to the defense of the downtrodden Native American. I would not be surprised to hear politically incorrect stories out of their mouths, and the only bleeding I might associate with them would be at the end of a successful hunting trip. They are ordinary folks, the kind of neighbors who would stop and help a stranger change a tire without a second thought, who have served their communities quietly for many years, and who know what hard times are about.

The first neighbor caught up to me networking the old fashioned way, at a community event over coffee. “That Shonto Pete didn’t get a fair trial,” he said. He particularly objected to the jury finding Olsen shot in self-defense, when the press reported Pete was hit in the back of the head. It sounds fishy to me too, but I wasn’t at the trial and I’m not going to second guess the jurors' decision. What they heard in the courtroom and what we read in the paper are not necessarily a match. The ironic thing about his comment is that Shonto Pete wasn’t on trial, Jay Olsen was on trial. Officer Jay Olsen clearly had a good lawyer.

The second neighbor found me on Facebook and sent a plea to do something. I’ll quote from part of his message:

“Let me ask why is an officer allowed to have alcohol and a weapon in his possession at the same time??? If cops drink they need to remove the weapon, poor judgment due to alcohol is going to get someone dead!!!! Laws need to be in place to make it a felony for an officer to carry a weapon with BA of more than .OOO.”

There is no holier-than-thou in his plea for justice, Bill knows from personal experience that alcohol misuse has consequences. I understand “there oughta be a law” is an easy way to let off steam, but I think Bill is on to something. We reasonably expect more from our first responders. We grant police officers necessary leeway to exercise professional judgment, and in return we are justified in demanding higher standards of conduct.

I’m not in favor of passing laws that will be ignored just to say we did something, but in this case I pledged to my neighbor to “do something.” First step will be to forward these citizen concerns up the chain of command and determine if a new law is necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare. Was the Jay Olsen case an aberration? How do we build public confidence in a fair system, one that isn’t rigged in favor of the police over the common citizen? How do we give police officers the operational latitude they need to protect us, without it being turned against us? We need to be sure the game is Cops and Robbers, not Cops and Citizens. Stay tuned.

March 8, 2009- A Text Message From God

2009-03-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

My daughter convinced me to add text messaging to my phone service, which gave me the idea for the Time for Children lesson during worship this morning. I started by asking the kids if they knew any texting abbreviations, and of course they did. They rattled off LOL (Laughing Out Loud) and OMG (shyly translated as Oh My Gosh by kids who are sitting on the dais of a church). I had a few more on a poster board which they also recognized: BFF - Best Friends Forever, L8R - Later, and BRB - Be Right Back.

Then we moved on to the next line on the poster: MVEMJSUN(P). Scott recognized the acronym as My Very Educated Mother Just Sent Us Nine Pizzas and as the old way to remember the order of the planets orbiting the sun. He was correct, and I pointed out we’d need a new sentence since Pluto got demoted. We decided My Very Educated Mother Just Sent Us Noodles would do.

We often use a sentence or symbol to help learn lists and lessons. During Lent, it was a common practice for people to spend the 40 days of the season studying for baptism on Easter. One symbol used as a study aid was a special acronym using the word “fish,” spelled IXTHYS in anglicized ancient Greek on the next line of the poster. Each letter of the word stood for a special lesson on the core beliefs of all Christians:

I (iota) Iesous = Jesus
X (chi) Christos = Christ
TH (theta) Theos = God’s
Y (upsilon) Yios = Son
S (sigma) Soter = Savior

The fish was a way to remember the lesson “Jesus Christ, God’s Son, our Savior.” I added a fish outline around the letters on the poster. Drawing the fish symbol was a quick way to remember the lesson. Legend also says the symbol served as a recognition code in the ancient world, in the times and places when it was dangerous to be a Christian. When you met someone and weren’t sure if it was safe to talk about your faith, you could draw a curved line in the dust of the road. If the stranger added another curved line to complete the fish, then you knew it was safe to talk.

And finally, the closing lesson. At the bottom of the poster was the following acronym: OMG – JCGSS!

It may not read as a fish, but it still stands for Jesus Christ, God’s Son, our Savior. God’s action on the cross, starting at one particular place and time, with a small number of witnesses, has spread around the world. Starting from a small worship service in a small church in a small town, we’ll see if we can spread JCGSS around the world. We’ll use JCGSS in our e-mail signatures, text messaging, and on social networking websites. Each time someone asks what it means, it gives us an opportunity to start the faith discussion and share the Good News.

JCGSS!

March 7, 2009 - Work Party

2009-03-07T10:42:00.000-08:00

After making a dozen phone calls this morning to successfully recruit a vounteer work party for our church remodel, I was feeling pretty good about our work ethic in this country. Then I read the following quote forwarded by my uncle:

Quote of the Day The late Dr. Adrian Rogers (1931-2005) offered the following
observation several years ago and it bears poignant significance
today: "You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the rich
out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person
must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody
anything the government does not first take from somebody else. When
half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other
half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that
it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work
for, that my dear friend is about the end of any nation. You cannot multiply the
wealth by dividing it."

We cannot depress the incentive to work without truly pushing this country into a depression. While I fundamentally disagree with Ayn Rand on the subject of God (she was an ardent atheist, I am an evangelical Christian), she had a few things right when she wrote "Atlas Shrugged." The entrepreneurs, farmers and business owners of this country don't have to create wealth and jobs, we can shrug it off and just look after our own. If we lose the engines of real job creation, not government job creation, then government will collapse. We are losing our balance. We need a new Work Party to pull us back on track. Where is John Galt?

March 4, 2009 - "Invest in What Works"

2009-03-04T15:53:00.000-08:00

From an article by Dina Cappiello of the Associated Press, as printed in The Spokesman-Review on March 2, 2009:

The focus of the story was on the difficulties faced by the House of Representatives as it tries to make the Capitol Power Plant "green" and reach a net zero emissions profile. Investments have been made to improve the energy efficiency and to switch a portion of the load to natural gas in lieu of coal. In addition, the House has been purchasing carbon offsets, the same carbon offsets that would be part of a cap and trade system. To quote the article:

"The House spent $89,000 in 2007 and 2008 in part to cancel out the remaining portion of its carbon dioxide emissions at the plant. But on Friday the House said it would no longer purchase offsets because there was no way to verify whether the investment actually results in carbon neutrality."

President Barack Obama, in a sound bite moment on CNN today, talked about improving government contracting and saying it is time for America to "invest in what works." Apparently the House of Representatives has concluded that cap and trade doesn't work.

March 2, 2009 - Heretics, Skeptics and Politics

2009-03-02T23:01:00.000-08:00

Ever heard of J. Harlen Bretz and Joseph T. Pardee? They were the scientific heretics of the early 1900’s who posited the theory of a glacial Lake Missoula and a mammoth flood shaping the channeled scablands of Eastern Washington, washing an area stretching from Montana to the Willamette Valley. It was considered a preposterous hypothesis. The consensus of the scientific community was that such a large and earth shaping event was inconceivable, as it violated the accepted principle of Uniformitarianism (holding that “past geological events can be explained by forces observable today,” Glacial Lake Missoula and the Ice Age Floods at http://www.glaciallakemissoula.org/story.html).

It took over 30 years and the development of new technological tools (including aerial photography) to finally convince the scientific consensus to accept an inconvenient truth – a single cataclysmic flood event on a scale never witnessed by man. The consensus has continued to change, as more and better research has pointed to a series of floods over thousands of years. Research and questions continue. New information continually shapes our understanding of the events of the past.

Recent blogs and my brief letter to the editor on climate change science drew lots of responses, both “atta girl” and “how dare you.” Some of the e-mails came from folks as vehement in defending their faith in cataclysmic anthropogenic climate change as William Jennings Bryan defending his faith in literal creationism at the Scopes trial.

Science cannot be determined by consensus. Science is about asking questions and accepting the answers as the basis for more questions. As new information continually shapes our understanding of the past, new information must continually shape our understanding of the future. Current climate change models are limited by the technology and information available to them, and are rightly subjected to rigorous and continuous testing by skeptics, as all good scientists must be skeptics.

Read the testimony of Dr. William Happer before the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works committee, chaired by Sen. Barbara Boxer. A transcript is available at:

http://epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Testimony&Hearing_ID=864d3319-802a-23ad-46a0-15d3b819178d&Witness_ID=7e0930c4-f99f-48fd-bdd2-df4ae79f27ef .

If you have trouble with the link, e-mail me at suelani@gotsky.com and I’ll send you the pdf. He lays out his own scientific understanding, as a physicist, of atmospheric gases and their interaction with visible and invisible radiation, He also provides his analysis, as a former Director of Energy Research at the Department of Energy, on the interaction of politics and science.

As you read, ask yourself if perhaps the late Harlan Bretz and Joseph Pardee would advise more curiosity and less consensus as the path to better science. We are in an age of a new Uniformitarianism, holding that future climate events can be explained by forces observable today. Skepticism is not scientific heresy.

February 25, 2009 – Earmark Control

2009-02-26T11:45:00.000-08:00

The rationale for earmarks has been their usefulness in getting federal money turned loose for small local projects that would otherwise be bogged down in bureaucracy, acting as a safety valve to fund deserving local needs. This begs the question - why was the money sent to DC in the first place - but I’ll set that aside for now. If eliminated by law or Executive Order in 2009 they'd sneak back in some form by 2011. The pressure won't go away.

The reality is there will always be needy constituents or their representatives lined up in the lobby. Earmarks are currently too readily used as political rewards by unethical representatives. They become a political hot potato for a principled representative feeling pressured to tap the money for the good of his/her constituents because "everyone else is doing it."

Suggestion - institutionalize earmarks in a way that controls the unethical without penalizing the responsible, and takes a baby step toward reducing if not eliminating. Allot an amount to each congressional district (total to be less than the total amount currently devoted to earmarks) and establish it as a grant program within each district. Design a consistent process to fairly evaluate proposals on their merits - urgency, readiness, matching local funds, alignment with federal constitutional responsibilities to the states, and local district priorities. The primary goal needs to be to increase local ability to respond to local needs, sustainably.

I once participated in a conference call between one of my clients and a pair of DC lobbyists, who were coaching my client in how to present the case for an earmark. The earmark requested (and later granted) was for updating the ER of a rural hospital, pretty basic stuff, not too extravagant and not a teapot museum. What I remember most clearly was that it had to be $1.5 million. Less than that wasn't worth the time, more than that wouldn't fly. It really might as well have been a grant request, only it lacked the dispassionate review of a good grant program.

A smart and ethical representative would use a local district council to develop district goals for the grants, de-politicizing and involving grassroots folks in setting priorities. Including a system of accountability to each other in Congress would encourage everyone to act smartly. By starting steps to control the amount, by bringing the process into the daylight, it will eventually be possible to address the larger question of why the local money had to go all the way to DC before coming back to serve local needs and wants.

February 20, 2009 - Cap and Trade and Smoke and Mirrors

2009-02-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

It's been an intense week on a couple of e-mail list serves discussing cap and trade. For today's blog, I suggest we agree to set aside the debate on how to read scientific papers related to climate change data. We are not likely to reach consensus any time soon. For purposes of discussion, I agree to stipulate that anthropogenic carbon in the atmosphere is more than a trace gas and that reducing it will actually have an impact on a process recently described by a noted climatologist as irreversible (couldn’t help getting in one last little dig!).

Focusing on cap and trade, the manipulation of the cap and trade process for financial gain rather than actual impact on carbon in the atmosphere must not be understated. A pivotal conversation for me was hearing from a former DC lobbyist who found himself working with a multi-national energy company which was positioning itself to take full financial advantage and to manipulate the future market for trading carbon offsets. The lobbyist quit after three months (thus, being a former lobbyist). The company was Enron.

Financial manipulation is real, encouraging trading of offsets without reduction of carbon. The basic problem is that unlike other kinds of contracts, where the two parties have an inherent interest in holding each other accountable, cap and trade lacks that basic link. The company that buys a credit is best served if it simply assumes that the seller is carrying through, the value lies in the credits and not in actually accomplishing the underlying goal. The seller has no incentive to notify the buyer if it turns out that the projected sequestration is not being realized.

Carbon is different than other kinds of pollutants for which cap and trade systems were successfully used to reduce emissions. Carbon dioxide is not only ubiquitous in the atmosphere from both natural and anthropogenic sources, it is a necessary component of the atmosphere for sustaining plant life. The very commonality of carbon dioxide makes monitoring for results impossible. In contrast, the financial and public relations motivation for manipulation of the process is high.

If the goal is to reduce carbon in the atmosphere, this is not a way to be successful. If the goal is to feel like we are doing something, with money flowing and paperwork growing, this fits the bill.

February 16, 2009 - Cap and Trade Flunks Triple Bottom Line

2009-02-16T22:20:00.001-08:00

A basketful of legislation is being pushed across the country this year with the plea that we must do “Something” in the face of climate change. Susan Solomon, a respected climatologist speaking on NPR on January 27th (and widely quoted in the main stream newspapers) said that based on her most recent research on climate change, global warming and carbon/greenhouse gas impacts are irreversible and inevitable, and “Nothing” can be done to reverse them. Yet there is still a very human instinct to want to do “Something” when we are told there is a problem, and Ms. Solomon expressed that very human instinct when she said “I guess if its irreversible, to me it seems all the more reason you might want to do something about it.”

Not every issue is a problem with a solution, sometimes an issue is a dilemma to be managed. Climate change is inevitable, whether affected by human actions or not. It is a dilemma to be managed with reasonable actions that do not add to the dilemma with unintended social, environmental and economic consequences. I am enclosing two quotes below to explain why we should not take drastic action such as instituting cap and trade programs in the name of doing “Something” about which “Nothing” can be done:

From “A Brief History of Time,” by Stephen Hawking

“Any physical theory is always provisional, in the sense that it is only a
hypothesis: you can never prove it. No matter how many times the results of
experiments agree with some theory, you can never be sure that the next time the
result will not contradict the theory. On the other hand, you can disprove a
theory by finding even a single observation that disagrees with the predictions
of the theory... Each time new experiments are observed to agree with the
predictions the theory survives, and our confidence in it is increased; but if
ever a new observation is found to disagree, we have to abandon or modify the
theory.”

From a peer-reviewed article “Solar Modulation of Little Ice Age Climate in the tropical Andes,” published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, June 1, 2006, by University of Massachusetts Professor P.J. Polisar et al. A summary of the article indicates that research results show man is not the culprit in the melting of the Andean glaciers, and argues that “climatic change in the Venezuelan Andes is linked to changes in solar activity during the Little Ice Age” and says the data “suggest that solar variability is the primary underlying cause of glacier fluctuations.”

According to Stephen Hawking, when a new observation disagrees with a theory, it is necessary to “abandon or modify the theory.” Human caused global warming is a conclusion based on climate change theory, and there is both supporting and contradictory evidence for the underlying theory. Science is science, and it ceases to be science when it ceases to consider contradictory evidence or to allow questions. Climate change is not a sound theory to use as the basis of drastic social, environmental and economic policy.

The unintended consequences of basing policy decisions on an unexamined belief in global warming are far reaching. For example, cap and trade systems such as the one proposed as HB1819 in the Washington state Legislature seem quite simple. The reality is much more complicated and open to market manipulations. The only people guaranteed to make any money off this will be the brokers, with no guarantee of decreased emissions. This should a serious concern whether you believe we need to reduce emissions or not. We need to look at the lessons of Europe, where there are concerns about unintended increased emissions and serious economic repercussions resulting from current European Union cap and trade systems (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/04/08/AR2007040800758_pf.html and http://www.businessgreen.com/business-green/news/2213702/europe-cap-trade-scheme-hand )

In addition, Washington HB1819 is broad and vague in its scope and powers. The state Department of Ecology is given enormous discretionary power, and required to enforce strict adherence to the Western Climate Initiative (WCI) decisions. The WCI advisory council is largely made up of unelected bureaucrats, thus negating the basic principle of our country’s longevity – representative government by the people, for the people and of the people. Washington would be abdicating its responsibilities and rights as a state to this unelected regional coalition. There are no checks and balances in this proposal.

In a biennium where Washington is facing a budget deficit of more than $6 billion (last I heard will be $8 billion after the next economic forecast), we are not in a position to be the first state in the nation to take this giant step. We have no capacity to accommodate unintended consequences. Even if the science were without question, such a political decision fails to adequately pass the triple bottom line test of balancing environmental, social and economic responsibility.

February 11, 2009 - Don't "Do Something"

2009-02-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

President Barack Obama held his first national press conference on Monday night. I tuned in towards the end, catching him right in the middle of stating how important it was to set an example of good behavior for our youth, and teach them that actions have consequences. It became apparent that he was talking about baseball. Regrettably, he was not talking about fiscal responsibility.

The lesson we are teaching all our citizens is that if you make bad loans and bad business decisions, or if business just isn’t working out like you think it should, stick your hand out and ask for a government bailout. If you take on a loan that you can’t repay, wait for a government program to save you from the consequences. As someone who makes conservative business decisions and is faithfully repaying a home loan I can afford, when do I get my reward?

The most important part of the stimulus package debate isn’t how to spend the $825 billion, it should be how much debt can we afford to pay back. We already threw money at the problem, with little effect. The irony in the situation is tragic – we are taking on loans we can’t repay in order to stimulate an economy gone sour because we pushed banks to make loans to people who couldn’t repay. The banks took on too much risk and were bailed out, but who will bail out the United States Treasury? The rules of debt repayment are as immutable as the law of gravity.

We need Democrats as well as Republicans who can withstand the easy urge to take dramatic action in the face of a volatile stock market. The situation reminds me of old-timers advice on how to survive a bear encounter in a wild mountain meadow. Running is the worst thing to do. The hardest thing to do is the best thing to do - drop to the ground and lay motionless. Many of these representatives and senators may sincerely think they are doing the right thing in creating short term motion, when restraint would better serve our long term interests. On the cynical side, to do nothing and wait it out doesn’t allow many photo ops or ribbon cuttings.

Ask Congress to exercise the political courage to stand fast. Tell your representative and senators to resist the urge to “do something,” and set an example for our youth of fiscal restraint. Urge President Obama to expect as much accountability from Congress as he expects from major league baseball players.

(Also posted on Facebook at the "Positively Republican" page. Please join us on line!)

February 7, 2009 - Difference Between a D and an R

2009-02-08T18:24:00.001-08:00

Q. What is the difference between a Democrat and a Republican?

A. A Democrat identifies a need, defines it as a problem, and looks for a government solution. The Republican identifies a need, defines it as an opportunity, and expects a market solution.

Let’s look at an example from a Republican point of view. My aunt died suddenly in December, leaving no will and no instructions. Since then I have spent a lot of time with my sister and our husbands sorting papers, packing mementoes and hauling furniture. We spent three days the last week of January cleaning out her apartment in Seattle, traveling from our homes in Oregon and eastern Washington. We had to move fast, and tried to make sure as much as possible was recycled or donated appropriately. We muddled through as best we could in on-the-job training mode, and if/when called upon to do this again, we’ll be a lot sharper at it.

As we took a break from packing, we agreed how lucky we were to have the flexibility to make time to do this ourselves. It would be tough for a lot of folks to take time off from their jobs or away from their business. My sister observed the business potential for a “green” estate management service, cleaning out households with an assurance to busy and far-flung families that accumulated stuff was sorted and recycled, building contacts with non-profits to find useful outlets for everything and reporting back to the family to ease their minds. I suggested adding a mediation service when old family dynamics complicate decision making. My brother-in-law, ever the instinctive entrepreneur, started describing a business plan with franchising across the country, adding legal advice specific for each state. We talked about writing a do-it-yourself book for families who couldn’t afford to pay for a full service, interviewing a variety of families for their experience and advice. It was free market brainstorming at its best. It’s the Republican approach to filling a need with a market based emphasis, encouraging entrepreneurs to take a risk and try new approaches. Encouraging entrepreneurship is real economic stimulus.

From a Democrat point of view, the problem might be defined as lack of mandatory paid family leave for any and all family obligations, not enough free legal aid and counseling services, need for better public recycling programs, and a new agency to coordinate non-profit donations. It’s the Democrat approach to filling a need with a new government program, at the risk of suppressing entrepreneurship and innovation. Government solutions are not necessarily bad, but they do require money. Government’s only source of money is business, either directly through corporate and small business taxes or indirectly by taxing employee’s income. If entrepreneurs avoid creating jobs, if employees are laid off because a business can’t make a go of it in the face of regulatory overload, government kills the goose that lays the golden eggs. Creating government dependency instead of rewarding business creativity is a drag on the economy.

Our money collected by the government to repay loans from foreign banks does not stimulate our economy. The $800+ billion “stimulus package” was supported only by Democrats in the House is because it was designed from a Democrat point of view, with more emphasis on pork-barrel programs than healing our ailing infrastructure. Investment in infrastructure is investment in a healthy economic climate, freeing business to provide the goods and services people need. President Obama did the right thing when he consulted with Congressional Republicans, too bad he didn’t listen to their concerns. Republicans are finally turning back to their roots, emphasizing limited government, self-reliance and fiscal responsibility. I am proud to be positively Republican!

February 3, 2009 - Priorities and Christmas Trees

2009-02-03T11:56:00.000-08:00

Good news for me today, I got my first by line with a guest editorial published in the Seattle P-I. If you'd like to read my suggestion for saving the state $2,795,000 and getting a better grip on what priorities of government should mean, then I invite you to read along at:

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion/398437_womenbiz03.html

I'm blogging now, but I've been writing letters to the editor for over 40 years. My very first letter to the editor (I was in the 5th grade) was also a suggestion on how government could reconsider priorities and show some fiscal restraint. I suggested the federal government plant a tree to be the National Christmas Tree instead of cutting and shipping a large tree at great expense each year, thereby saving both money and trees. I copied the letter to Congressman Tom Foley and Sen. Warren Magnuson, who both sent respectful and encouraging replies. I was hooked, and have been writing letters to the editor ever since.

In an interesting twist of fate, my first roommate in traveling with my AgForestry class was a Christmas tree farmer who is justifiably proud of having once supplied the National Christmas tree from her family's farm, Bear Canyon Tree Farm. She produces a renewable crop, creates jobs in an economically depressed rural area and cares for the land. I'm now convinced there are good reasons to have a new National Christmas tree each year, and although I've decided that's not the place to save a few dollars or one tree, I'm still working for fiscally and environmentally responsible government.

Evaluating decisions for economic, environmental and and social sustainability is more complex than I realized in grade school, and it is still the toughest part of government. Our legislature has to stick with the typical campaign pledge to "go through the budget line by line" and do it with a critical eye, knowing that every decision will make someone unhappy. We can't afford a budget decorated like a Chritmas tree with pet projects and programs. Our responsibility as citizens is expect the job to be done carefully, following our state constitution as our collective mission statement for government, and understanding we might have to give up a few things we've been accustomed to. That's what setting priorities of government is all about.

January 31, 2009 - And Now for Your Neighborhood Weather

2009-01-31T13:34:00.000-08:00

Tuesday night on NPR, someone introduced as a climatologist stated that based on her most recent research on climate change, global warming and carbon/greenhouse gas impacts are irreversible and inevitable, and “Nothing” can be done to reverse them. Sea levels will rise and agricultural patterns will change as the earth warms. Then she went on to say that because “Nothing” can be done, we need to do “Something.” However, doing “Something” to try and impact a process that climatologist(s) say cannot be impacted only delays the inevitable. That doesn’t sound like good stewardship of natural, economic or social resources. We would be better off to invest in building a robust society where rising sea levels and agricultural pattern shifts are can be accommodated and adapted to.

Or the climatologist cited could be wrong, and the shifts will be different, sea levels may fall and agricultural patterns will still shift as the earth cools or bobbles or whatever it does. in that case natural, economic and social resources invested in a robust and flexible society will still be useful. Either way, investing resources into doing “Something” to change “Nothing” is poor stewardship.

There is an idea for legislation being floated around to allow neighborhoods to create Climate Benefit Districts in order to do “Something.” It needs to be squelched as a waste of resources.

January 23, 2009 - Junk Food Nation

2009-01-23T18:13:00.000-08:00

In the 1950’s, school lunch programs became a national priority - too many draftees in the 1940’s washed out because they were under weight and malnourished. The Great Depression limited the quantity of nutritious food to many growing children, and was countered by federal subsidies to school lunch programs. Food commodity distribution became big business, and nutrition slowly dropped by the wayside under pressure from industry.

According to tonight’s NBC Evening News, Army volunteers are now washing out because they are out of shape and overweight – under-exercised couch potatoes malnourished on an American diet of high fat treats and over processed junk food. The food commodity programs haven’t helped either, providing too many high fat/high starch products and limited access to fresh vegetables. Basic training has been redesigned to provide "remedial PE" for recruits who don't even know how to run properly, and the mess hall menu revamped to support weight loss.

Any bets on how this will shape the next round of USDA commodity policies and food programs from the new administration? How about changes in Dept. of Education requirements for PE programs, maybe to require a more literal, physical interpretation of "no child left behind?" Wish I could believe the federal government will bow out and let us/expect us to take responsibility for our own diet and exercise, but I suspect not.

January 20, 2009 - Dear North Dakota

2009-01-20T12:33:00.000-08:00

Dear North Dakota Legislators,

We're in Minot, North Dakota for a few days visiting our daughter, son-in-law and grandson at their new home at Minot AFB. We drove here from Washington (state) via I-90, I-94 and US Hwy 2 to deliver a car stuffed to the roof with odds and ends of luggage, a computer, a dog, and a cat. We spent yesterday entertaining the grandson and the dog while United Van Lines delivered a truck load of furniture. Thanks for turning up the temperature for our visit, we understand 26 degrees F is a heat wave around here in January.

I like to watch the local news when we travel. I heard a report about the North Dakota Assembly and their budget struggle with a growing $1 billion surplus. Our legislators in Olympia, Washington are struggling with a budget problem of their own. We have about a $6 billion budget deficit, and the projected deficit is growing by the day. Want to trade problems?

My research on the background of your “problem” turned up an August 25, 2008 Bismarck Tribune article http://www.bismarcktribune.com/articles/2008/08/05/news/topnews/161689.txt) with an interesting quote:

"The news [of a growing surplus] touched off a round of proposals about what the Legislature should do with the money, with Gov. John Hoeven suggesting he may support cutting the state income tax.

Democratic governor candidate Tim Mathern, who is opposing the Republican incumbent's bid for re-election, said Monday the bulging surplus was a sign of mismanagement by the Legislature's majority Republicans."

Apparently ND voters didn’t buy the “mismanagement” charge and liked your incumbent Governor’s balanced approach better, voting him back into office with over 74% of the vote. His proposed 2009-2011 budget proposes restrained investment, a tax cut and building a substantial reserve. Unfortunately, all the ND legislators who got camera time on the Bismarck news sounded as eager to spend the money as a hyper-excited lottery winner.

Our last election in Washington featured an incumbent Democrat governor who kept insisting there wasn’t a deficit in WA, and a Republican challenger who thought we ought to face reality. Our incumbent won too, but we still have to face reality. Our legislature is cutting bone as well as fat, talking about tax increases in a faltering economic climate, and the reserve is long gone.

Have you ever watched a friend making a dumb decision, one that you know isn’t going to turn out well? You know she won’t listen, but you try and warn her anyway. Hey North Dakota, take a look at your neighbor on the west end of US Hwy 2 and don’t start spending on unsustainable programs and projects. While you’re at it, give the hardworking taxpayers of North Dakota a break. And don’t forget a healthy rainy day fund, we’re having a monsoon in Washington.

There is one road improvement project I’d heartily support after driving US Hwy 2 from Williston to Minot on a mildly windy winter evening. You need markers at the edge of the highway shoulders, the kind we put up along US Hwy 2 in Washington with reflectors to keep drivers oriented in blowing and drifting snow. Come on out west and I’ll show you examples in eastern Washington, and while you’re at it you can look at the painful cuts we’re going to be making to fix our deficit. Better to avoid a crash when you see one coming, don't you agree?

Thanks for your hospitality last weekend, and stay warm. We look forward to visiting more of your state over the next few years. Hope to hear from you soon, be glad to show you around. The high temperature today in Reardan is 21 degrees F, you’ll feel right at home.

January 18, 2009 – The Savvy Consumer

2009-01-18T20:30:00.000-08:00

Last week an old barn roof collapsed on a small elk herd near Metaline in Pend Oreille County. Volunteers from the area turned out to salvage the meat for a food bank. Elk meat is highly nutritious, heart healthy, lean and tasty. The volunteer crew of skilled hunters field dressed the six elk. The Department of Fish & Wildlife made the sensible decision to allow the volunteer crew to keep two of the elk carcasses as a reward for their hard work, while the other four were donated to the Loon Lake Food Pantry. Volunteers at the food pantry will grind the meat to provide a ground meat product for the 1,100 families served by the food pantry each month. This was a perfectly legal series of events because the animals in question are wild game.

Just before Christmas, we had several representatives from an immigrant Hmong family visit our ranch to buy three young goats for holiday feasting. Goat meat is highly nutritious, heart healthy, lean and tasty. They surveyed the available stock and selected their preferred animals. The men borrowed my husband’s field dressing knife to slaughter the animals before returning home. They will prepare the meat for their own families and friends. The transaction was in a gray area legally because the animals in question are domesticated.

Can anybody explain to me why it’s safe to shoot an elk, field dress the carcass, spend a couple of hours carrying it out of the woods, toss it into the pickup and spend a couple of hours driving home, butcher it and prep for the barbecue and the freezer – but not treat a goat the same? We can slaughter a goat at the ranch, prep it for the freezer and toss it in within an hour – as long as it’s for our own use. Maybe we just need to knock down a piece of the fence and let our customers shoot them in the field. Then we can call them wild game.

Agreed - we need good regulations in place on feedlots and mass slaughter facilities in the interest of protecting the general public health, safety and welfare. But let’s put a little science to it. Savvy consumers, like skilled hunters, deserve the opportunity to take responsibility for their own families and gain direct access to nutritious, tasty and locally produced meat direct from the producer.

January 10, 2009 – Excuses, Excuses, Excuses . . and Grace

2009-01-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

If you were looking forward to another edition of That Got My Goat last week, and wondered what happened, here’s my excuse – there is no excuse, I just didn’t take the time to sit down and write. It was my choice to drop blogging in priority for the week, my responsibility.

The subject of taking responsibility has been on my mind since last Friday morning, which I spent filing my aunt’s estate for probate at King County Superior Court. The morning was filled with examples of ducking and shifting responsibility, starting with signs prominently posted at every desk warning that court staff cannot provide legal advice or help you fill out forms. In spite of that handicap, let me compliment the staff for efficiently getting me through the process in 3 hours. My mother thought it would easily take 3 days or 3 weeks, given King County’s reputation for red tape.

My stack of various papers had to be turned in to the Clerk of the Court on the 6th floor for processing, then to the 3rd floor for review and signature by a Superior Court Judge, then back to the Clerk’s office on the 6th floor for filing. The Clerk’s staff managed to get the point across when I had something missing by asking carefully emphasized questions, like “are you sure you want to submit this without a signature here?” When I had successfully filed with the Clerk of the Court’s office, paying the extra fee for expedited service, I asked what expedited meant. The Clerk was edgy about giving me a straight answer, saying it meant they would walk the paperwork down to the courtroom immediately but warning they weren’t responsible for it after that, it was the Judge’s responsibility. Finally he told me it could be 30 minutes or they had up to 24 hours to deliver expedited service, and re-emphasized it wasn’t his responsibility. Fair enough, why would I hold him responsible for the Judge’s action or inaction?

I went to the courtroom to see if it looked overwhelmingly busy or if they might get to my paperwork. Two people were just leaving, and there was no one there but the Judge and his Clerk. The Judge left and his Clerk lectured me that there was nothing for me to do in the courtroom, that they would get to the paperwork as soon as they could after receiving it, but then it would go back to the Clerk of the Court’s office and he was not responsible for their actions. Why would I hold him responsible for someone else’s actions? Why is everyone around here so eager to duck?

Back to the Clerk of the Court’s office and a hard bench in the hallway outside the door. I had a good view of the people coming and going. A young woman sat down on the bench next to me, pulled out her laptop and started a cell phone conversation. She had been there as long as I that morning, visiting various counters with papers in hand. I took her to be a junior lawyer, or perhaps even a law student. She was working on a foreclosure case on behalf of an associate named Michael who was at his father’s funeral. In the course of several pleasant conversations she managed to shift blame to Michael (“this is all on Michael’s head if this doesn’t work out) and to the person she was calling for advice (“I’ll have to tell them you told me to sign the affidavit”). Never did I hear her say she would take responsibility for any action she was contemplating.

Perhaps she was right, it wasn’t her responsibility. Perhaps the Clerks were right, they had been relieved of responsibility. Sitting there in the courthouse, a temple of justice, it struck me that the only reason we need courts at all is that we are all so quick to duck responsibility. We do it without even thinking about it, blaming the weather or the traffic or the kids for our lateness. We blame fast food joints for making us fat and easy credit for making us broke. We blame the other driver for making us angry and the other guy for starting the fight. We’ve been shifting blame ever since Adam said “Eve made me do it” and Eve said “the serpent made me do it.” It’s in our souls.

Fortunately for us, God knows that we will fall short, and sent His only Son to carry our sins and the Holy Spirit to bolster our courage. We are still responsible for the consequences of our actions, but it is God’s promise of infinite grace that turns hopelessness into hope.

January 1, 2009 – To Preserve, Protect and Defend

2009-01-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

I am a native Washingtonian and have always lived in the northeast corner of the most northwest of the 48 contiguous states. As a child who only watched football during bowl games, I had a very simple way of deciding who I would root for. I sided with the university located farthest west. If both were from the west, the tie-breaker was which school was farther north. If it was WSU Cougars vs. UW Huskies, then go Cougs! It was a simple, childish tribal impulse of hometown allegiance applied to something that is essentially meaningless (sorry about that, sports fans, but its only football!).

My senior year in high school, as the Vietnam War was winding down, two popular cliques planned demonstrations, one supporting the US government and one opposing the war and our country. As a long time member of the band and science fair geeks, I was momentarily impressed at being asked by the popular kids to take a side. On the appointed day, I proudly wore my US flag armband to school. When my father saw it at home, he sat me down and drilled me on my reasons. Knowing he would not be impressed with a response based on popularity, I had to dig deeper in my own psyche as to why I made my choice. It wasn’t mere tribalism, it was the lessons I had learned from studying our country’s history and traveling with my dad, the constant history teacher. I love this country, and the values and principles it was founded on. We fall short sometimes (perhaps too often), but to me the flag symbolizes the best of our aspirations and our history. We have an unenviable foundation and a responsibility to maintain the structure of our republic out of respect for those who have worked and sacrificed before us.

A columnist for the Los Angeles Times, Joel Stein, recently wrote in a column headlined in our local paper “GOP Blinded By Love” that he has come to believe conservatives are right – we do love our country more than liberals. He does not think this is a good thing. He theorizes the conservative’s love of country is an unthinking, undeserved tribalism of birthplace, while he personally would have felt equally blessed to have been born in any wealthy democracy. He fears the absolute extremism of love (our country is better than yours) as a dangerous thing.

I’ve traveled and talked with enough people around the country and the world to know there is a grain of truth in Joel’s analysis. There is a tribal component to love of country that comes when you have roots in a place and culture, but it’s not the whole story. A mature love of country, the kind that conservative Americans are willing to express, is broader and deeper and founded on common principles and shared values. We are a country of immigrants who left their place and culture to come here and claim America as their own because of what we stand for. We invented a new kind of government – of the people, by the people and for the people - and we’re still working on getting it right.

Republicans aren’t blinded by love, we’ve made a conscious commitment. Ironically, Joel Stein understands what he’s missing but just can’t make the commitment. He ends his column by saying he’ll never experience the joy of patriotism because he’s always wondering if some other place or system is better, and “as I figured out shortly after meeting my wife, that is no way to love.” How sad for Joel and liberals like him who cannot make a commitment. It takes real commitment to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.

December 30, 2008 – New Year’s Resolution & the Right Golden Rule

2008-12-30T16:46:00.000-08:00

Today I had an efficient, surprising and cordial transaction with a voice mail system and a bureaucrat employed by the Social Security Administration. The only annoying part was when I looked on the SSA website afterwards and couldn’t find any place to send a complimentary message!

Anyone in a service profession, retail business or politics knows that dissatisfied clients/customers/constituents will tell 10 people about their bad experience, but hardly anyone talks about efficient service. Admittedly I did not have a complicated problem with my aunt’s account, but given the horror stories I’ve read (remember those talkative dissatisfied constituents?) I was prepared to spend most of the day on the phone doing battle. At first it didn’t sound promising – the voice recognition portion of the mail system insisted when I tried to “say and spell “Carolyn” that I was saying “Darolyn.” The efficient part was it had the good programming to stop asking me to repeat myself after the second try and moved on to the next question. Way to go, programmers!

After gathering basic information for the transaction, the automated system naturally assured me that calls were answered in the order received, and warned my wait would be over 10 minutes. The surprise was when I was given an option to leave a call back number and assured I wouldn’t lose my place in line, or I could continue to hold. It was hard to hang up and trust a call would come, but it was easier to trust than enter voice mail limbo and listen to a repetitive recording assuring me my call was important. Surprise again when I did receive a return call, within 15 minutes, from a cordial bureaucrat named Carol who understood why I had called and answered my questions cheerfully. Yay, Carol!

As we head into the New Year and the new legislative session in Olympia, I resolve to remember to compliment as often as complain, and if a complaint exists then to bring it forward with a solution. Isn’t that how we’d all like to be treated? Amazing how the golden rule would really make life much more pleasant and productive.

For the cynics, that would be God’s golden rule, not the one about he who has the gold makes the rules! That may be true, but it sure doesn’t contribute to improving our quality of life, our economy or our government. To paraphrase Hill Street Blues - let's be positive out there.

December 27, 2008 - What Tax Breaks?

2008-12-27T13:52:00.001-08:00

When it comes to budget crunches, conservatives traditionally tout increased efficiency and eliminating unnecessary spending as the first solution. According to the State Auditor, performance audits have identified 574 specific recommendations for $4.1 billion in short and long term cost savings. It’s now a proven strategy.

Tim Welch of the Washington Federation of State Employees says WSFE is suing the state because the Governor’s proposed budget doesn’t fund annual raises. Mr. Welch says not having enough money is no excuse, the state should find the money with the old liberal call for eliminating tax breaks for business. What tax breaks is he talking about? Is it the “tax break” that requires retail operations to play tax collector for the state without compensation? Requiring businesses to pay taxes on gross income whether they make a profit or not? Extending sales taxes to new categories of business? Does he really mean eliminating tax breaks or adding new taxes? Be specific, Mr. Welch.

Our businesses already bear a high tax and regulatory burden, stifling business formation and success. Mr. Welch had best be careful what “tax breaks” he’s talking about, before he kills the golden goose that pays for his union featherbed.

December 24, 2008 – Let It Snow

2008-12-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

As the wind and snow pick up the pace outside my home office window this afternoon, it is becoming increasingly clear that we will not be attending Christmas Eve worship this evening in Reardan. A 25 mile round trip in 4WD with chains doesn’t make a lot of sense. We will miss the opportunity for community worship with our church family, but it will provide us a new opportunity to create worship time together at home. We can decorate the potted Norfolk pine in the corner of the living room, spend time in Bible study and share in a little Yuletide baking for a festive dinner for two tomorrow.

As an empty nester, the old holiday traditions are not as important to me anymore. Our gift exchange list with other adults has dwindled by mutual agreement. We all have enough, and are trying to pare down possessions that are weighing us down. I’d even wager that one of the reasons for the drop in consumer spending is that so many of us baby boomers are downsizing rather than accumulating. We enjoy creating opportunities for presence more than exchanging presents. We value time to be with family and friends even more when snowy roads and stormy weather prevent us from having it!

I’ll write a commentary on the instability of an economy based on ever increasing consumerism and over-blown gift-giving on another day. May you and your family enjoy a safe and happy holiday, snug at home with loved ones and giving thanks to God for the priceless gift of His Son.

December 23, 2008 - Future of Farming

2008-12-23T16:10:00.000-08:00

Since traveling to Zimbabwe in 1999, the country has held a special place in my heart. I keep in touch with a contact in Harare by e-mail and subscribe to a daily Zimbabwe news briefing service (http://www.zwnews.com/). Here’s a quote from a recent news posting:

"Zimbabwe's economic collapse began when its agricultural exports shrunk after
Mugabe started seizing land from 4 500 productive white commercial farmers in
2000. The "new" farmers have failed year after year, despite massive state
subsidies, to grow even 20 percent of Zimbabwe's pre-land grab harvests.”

I would change the italic emphasis – it should be the new “farmers.” Farming does not mean waving your hands over the soil and effortlessly producing corn or wheat or a healthy herd of dairy cattle. State subsidies do not make land produce. Farming is a skilled profession, requiring knowledge and nerve.

Taking the land amounted to illegal eminent domain even by Zimbabwean judicial standards, but set aside that injustice for a moment. If Mugabe had grabbed the land and given it to black farmers, Zimbabwe could still be the breadbasket of Africa, a net exporter of food. Instead Mugabe suffered from the same misconception many Americans have, that food magically appears on shelves in the store and farmers are quaint country folks beaming serenely over their bountiful fields, flocks and herds. Farmers have to know business, diesel mechanics, marketing, and oh yeah a specialized body of agricultural knowledge too if they are going to make a profit and be ready to do it all again next year.

We need to be concerned about where the next generation of farmers is coming from. The WSDA Future of Farming report to the Legislature recently came out with a 20 year strategic plan with 9 priority statements. Priority #3 is critical To increase farmers entering the business. All of the other priorities, all of the research or subsidies or new market development, will mean nothing if there are no skilled farmers to coax production out of the soil. It’s a lesson we can learn from Zimbabwe.

While we’re in Africa, let me also throw in a lesson learned from my cousin, serving with the Peace Corps in Tanzania. She was curious about the CIA Factbook listing that over 90% of Tanzanians are employed in agriculture, when she knew that substantial numbers live in towns. She figured it out when she saw that nearly everyone is a farmer regardless of any other occupation, raising produce, chickens or pigs even on small city lots. Land and food are a source of economic and food security. That’s another good lesson for us here in the USA.

Do you know where you food comes from?

December 22, 2008 Wants and Needs

2008-12-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

It’s the time of year when visions of sugarplums and Christmas songs get stuck in your head. Here’s what’s been playing in my head for the last three days (with apologies to the Rolling Stones):

You can’t always get what you want,
You can’t always get what you want,
You can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometimes
You just might find
You get what you need.

We’ve spent most of the last three days recovering from one storm, working outside during the last storm, and getting ready for the next. We had to get up a new shelter for the goats (easy to assemble kits just aren’t, especially when it’s 5 degrees outside) and then sort out the goats we wanted to bring closer to home and get them loaded. It was only a 10 mile haul, but we lost the open window in the weather and had to deal with drifting snow across the last 1/8 mile of road. Craig dug out the road by hand while I put chains on the truck. And did I mention there were two frozen pipes to deal with? One thawed successfully, but there is an ominous dripping sound inside the wall between the laundry room and the garage. That will be one of today’s projects.

Now you can see why “you can’t always get what you want” keeps going through my head. The last big news flash out of Olympia before I became consumed with snow was the governor’s budget and the proposed cuts to make expenses balance with revenue. There are and must be cuts into things we want in order to focus on things we need. Over the years we have asked government to do a whole lot of inherently good things that aren’t core functions of government.

We have asked for all of our wants as if government and Santa Claus were synonymous, as a child insists on a pony for Christmas. At the Greater Spokane Legislative forum, one audience questioner noted that children will ask for everything, and a good parent knows when to say no and stick to it. Sen. Lisa Brown rejected the analogy and kept putting the responsibility for the budget problems back onto the people, saying that the legislature was just responding to the people’s requests. Sen. Linda Parlette had a much better response –like a good parent she is ready to make the tough decisions to separate needs and wants.

You can’t always get what you want, but we just might find we can get what we need – if our legislators stick to conservative principles and exercise fiscal discipline.

December 16, 2008 - Eulogy for Aunt Carol

2008-12-17T10:59:00.000-08:00

So many opportunities for a knife edged blog this last week – million dollar bonuses for CEOs who can’t manage a business, people behaving badly at the state capitol CHRISTMAS display, political corruption aka business as usual in Chicago - but I let them slip by. My week was overshadowed by the passing of our very own globe-trotting, eccentric, and stubbornly independent Aunt Carol.

Aunt Carol was almost a mythic figure to me as a child. She lived in New York City, traveled around the world, went to Broadway plays and the Metropolitan Opera. She never married, and I admired her exciting single life. Somehow she never managed to travel to eastern Washington until I was a teenager, but she made quite an impression with her sophisticated gifts for her two nieces at Christmas – woven bags from Greece, real gold jewelry from Portugal, and our very own matched luggage for my sister and I. She was our role model of an independent career woman, and my love of travel is at least partly due to her postcards and photographs of exotic places. In addition to the usual European tour, Aunt Carol traveled (always alone) to India, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Iceland, the Middle East and much more. She said traveling with a companion would slow her down.

A few years after her own parents retired and moved west to be closer to my dad (her little brother) and our family in Spokane, Carol left NYC and followed. Spokane couldn’t hold her (I think it was the lack of an opera company that was the last straw), and she moved on to Seattle. There she found the opera she craved, and a job at the University of Washington. She was a capable and efficient executive secretary and office administrator, and had always been able to find a job wherever she landed. I remember hearing one story about how she ran out of money in Australia, and had to get a job and stay for awhile before she could come back to the United States.

When she retired from the UW, Aunt Carol decided to take advantage of the hot real estate market in Seattle, sold her bungalow and moved to Kingston to try small town life. The Kingston-Edmonds ferry connects to the end of the Seattle bus line and an Amtrak station, both essential since Carol never had a driver’s license. By this time she was having a hard time walking and was legally blind, so naturally she bought a 2nd floor walk-up condo a few blocks from the ferry terminal to make sure she got enough exercise. She traveled, solo as always, to Finland for a special operatic extravaganza performance of Richard Wagner’s “Ring Cycle,” returning by way of Germany and leaving England by ship on the QE2. As recently as three years ago she took a cruise around South America.

I first got the news a week ago in a phone call from one of her friends, who had been trying to contact Carol to offer a ride from Seattle to her Kingston condo to meet her new tenants. Carol moved back to the city just over a year ago so she would have better access to the opera she dearly loved, without having to leave early to catch the last ferry. She hadn’t really settled in to the senior apartments and met the neighbors, said it was full of too many old people. Carol would have turned 84 in January. For the last two years she’s been talking about a trip to Machu Picchu as soon as the condo sells. I knew she was slowing down when she actually asked me to me accompany her on the trip, not because she was getting old but because she needed a driver.

My sister and I spent last weekend reliving Aunt Carol’s life as we sorted through stacks of clippings, correspondence from friends across the globe, and boxes of photographs and postcards. While her vocation had been office administration, her avocational interests were focused on the arts, philosophy and architecture. She lost her fiancé to cancer when she was a college girl, had a couple of other opportunities to marry, but preferred to keep her independence to the end. There will be more sorting and reminiscing this weekend. Maybe when the estate settles, we’ll plan a memorial trip to Machu Picchu in Aunt Carol’s honor. I think she’d like that.

December 8, 2008

2008-12-10T17:19:00.000-08:00

This morning the Seattle Times reported that the requirement for the state to have a balanced budget, as widely proclaimed by both Democrat and Republican legislators, is a myth. The legislature doesn’t have to pass a balanced state budget, the governor just has to present one as a starting point. The final budget can use the long term borrowing power of the state to cover short term operating expenses. State Treasurer Mike Murphy is quoted in the Times as saying even though it’s a bad idea, the Washington Constitution "does not prohibit you from doing something that's not too bright."

This is exactly the kind of temptation that gets families in trouble with credit card debt. It’s so easy to put those bills on plastic, convincing everyone that next month is sure to be better, we just need to hang on a little longer. In the end, it doesn’t much matter if a credit card is carrying non-essentials like Friday night pizza and videos or quarterly taxes and this month’s heating bill, it’s a first step toward bankruptcy and foreclosure.

My husband is leading a Sunday School class this month on stewardship and budgeting, of money, time and other resources. One interesting discussion these last two weeks has been the difference between secured debt (for example, for a durable investment like a house or a car) and unsecured debt like credit cards. There is a Biblical basis for secured debt as a wise investment in the future. The state government takes on secured debt when we borrow to invest in roads, buildings and other long term tangibles. I’ve got no problem with public debt (within reason) for capital investment.

However, unsecured debt is the way into slavery for individuals and families, and for governments. It may relieve the pressure on the current body of legislators by reducing the pain of cutting budgets and programs, but it puts future generations into bondage. Our federal government has already slid into this trap, with over $1.4 trillion in debt owned by just three countries – Japan, China and the United Kingdom (Source: Parade Magazine, in an article published November 9, 2008 quoting statistics from U.S. Department of the Treasury/Federal Reserve). And that was before the bailout started spending more money we don’t have!

We cannot afford to let our great state of Washington fall into the same trap. Write your legislators and tell them you want a balanced budget, no long term borrowing for short term expenses. Tell them you understand there will have to be budget cuts, you know it won’t be easy but you’ll respect them in the morning if they stand on principle. And practice the same wisdom in your own financial life, following some wise words from Thomas Jefferson:

“Never spend money before you have earned it.”

December 4, 2008

2008-12-05T13:56:00.000-08:00

There’s a new Blackberry in my pocket – now my phone and my e-mail will follow me everywhere. As part of the purchase I had to sign in three places and initial in 5 or 6 more, I lost track. It was the kind of legal paperwork my father taught me to read before signing, but honestly these kinds of agreement forms are so ubiquitous and lengthy that for most of us our eyes glaze over. Renting a car? Downloading software? Getting prepped for surgery? Sign here and initial there. Does anybody read it all anymore?

Feeling a little guilty about my neglect of the paper forms at the store, I actually read the user agreement on the mobile screen before clicking the “I agree” button. The bulk of the terms are basic common sense that should go without saying –the company is not responsible for damages if you use the device in the commission of a crime, you are responsible for what you download, etc. The company will also collect your personal data and pretty much do what they want with it. I have to agree to the user agreement, but the company reserves the right to change it whenever they want, and it’s my responsibility to check their website every once in awhile to see if anything has changed.

When did we become a society that silently accepts the necessity of signing off on obvious divisions of responsibilities and signing away our rights to object to our treatment? Do all those user agreements and release forms really do anything to make life better, more fair, safer? I doubt it, and yet, I go along. I fear the next generation won’t even think to stop and think about it. Sigh . . . . .

November 30, 2008

2008-12-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

The media is full of stories about spending on “Black Friday” and consumer confidence or lack thereof. What happened to giving thanks for everything that we have, why does our culture focus on wanting more? Where are our priorities?

For today’s Children’s Sermon, the object lesson was the Thanksgiving Day newspaper. The headline for Thursday’s local daily (under “Happy Thanksgiving”) was “Enticements to Buy,” with a highlighted quote from a department store spokeswoman: “There’s no question. This is one of the most challenging times we’ve seen in our history.” Really? She couldn’t think of a few more challenging times? We’re talking about shopping, for heaven’s sake. Ah, but there’s the problem. Heaven is a foreign priority in a consumer culture, as demonstrated in today’s worship service.

The kids came forward as usual and assembled on the dais steps for the Children’s Sermon. First I pulled the four news sections out of my special blue and white bag. After pointing out the front page headline to the kids, I turned the bag upside down and dumped out the Thanksgiving advertising inserts, along with a pocket Bible. The outline for my talk said that at this point I was going to point out the difference in volume between the mass quantity of advertising and the actual news (about a 3:1 ratio), and ask them to look for the real (truly heavenly!) good news.

As usual, the children didn’t follow the “script” and gave an even better demonstration of our nearsighted cultural focus. The younger kids pounced on the advertising, scrambling to find the toy and electronics sections. It looked like a door buster opening at the mall! One boy found the Bible and handed it to me as if I must have accidentally left it in the bag. A girl took an ad back to show her parents what she wanted. It took awhile to regain their attention! I’m not sure the littlest kids got the message as I read Romans 8:5 (paraphrased – if you focus on the things of this world, you get the fruits of this world - stuff. If you focus on the Holy Spirit, you get the fruits of the Holy Spirit.), but the older kids and adults sure did. Our focus and our priorities do matter! We have to choose wisely.

Our country, our state and every level of government face serious budget challenges in the coming year, and our leaders have started discussing the priorities of government. We have to trim expenses, yet we have special interest groups of all kinds pressing for more, or at least making the case for why they shouldn’t be cut. To be honest, all of us belong to at least one group that has some special interest in this debate, whether it is 4H, Farm Bureau, your local school district or your business. We have met the special interests, and they are us.

The dilemma facing the legislature is that there are good (from at least somebody’s point of view) arguments in favor of everything the state is doing or we wouldn't be doing them. Therefore, before focusing on specifics, we need agreement on how to judge which cuts we make, recognizing there are likely good reasons not to make any one specific cut. We need to establish the yardstick objectively before we start measuring, and acknowledge that the results are likely to be unpopular. The most basic of yardsticks is to go back to the state constitution and work from there. Once we have fulfilled our basic obligations, then we can look at opportunities to spend on lower priorities of government. And it may be hard to accept for some citizens, but there are good things the state is spending money on that government just has no business doing and should be cut altogether.

Tax revenues this next biennium will be higher than last biennium, but spending obligations have risen faster. Like the kids pouncing on the ads, the Democratic majority succumbed to pleas for more and jumped on board. The Republican minority has vainly sounded the warning - we have to pay for it. Hopefully both parties understand new taxes are not an option in this fragile economy. Both have to work together to set priorities and stick with them in the face of unpopular reaction. Priorities matter, for individuals and governments, and we can’t afford to have partisan grandstanding interfere with good government.

November 25, 2008

2008-11-24T17:55:00.000-08:00

The pace of change is indisputably increasing, but it’s now officially gone over the edge. There are reports of schools, streets and even a mountain peak being renamed in honor of President-elect Barack Obama. It used to be that naming honors were reserved for after someone’s death, then we started honoring people at the end of a career as a reward for years of service. Sometimes honors are bestowed earlier in a career, recognizing a significant achievement without waiting until retirement. Now we’re talking about changing the name of a mountain for a President-elect, not even a President yet. It would be prudent to wait and see how his career plays out. He might be really good at this President gig, or he might disappoint greatly. It’s too early to tell.

Remember Winnie Mandela? She was a heroine of apartheid, patiently waiting for her husband Nelson’s release from prison, bravely carrying on in his name. The Huxtables’ twin grandchildren on the Cosby show were named Nelson and Winnie. Shortly after Nelson’s release, Winnie Mandela was implicated in the kidnapping and murder of a 14 year old “informant.” Nelson and Winnie separated and divorced, and Winnie was later convicted on fraud and theft charges. It is no longer cool to be named after Winnie.

I bear no ill-will towards our President elect because I don’t wish ill for any human being. We are charged to pray for our leaders, and I will do so. I love my country and want us to thrive and be safe whether it is because of or in spite of our leaders. I realize the historicity of Obama’s election as a mulatto man in a race conscious society, but it would be better to wait and see if he can live up to the hype surrounding his campaign before scheduling his lifetime achievement award dinner.

We need the perspective of history to accurately judge the impact of a president. Obama’s skyrocketing approval ratings may thud to earth when faced with the reality of daily economic decision making, a successful domestic terrorism attack or a mis-handled natural disaster. George Bush’s low ratings may fade from memory as we look back at a time when domestic terrorist activity was thwarted for seven years of peace on our home soil. Let’s not rush history.

November 24, 2008

2008-11-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

Quote from a NWCN top story report on Obama’s economic policies (calling for another $175 billion dollars we don’t have and asking Congress to act before Inauguration Day):

We don't have time to waste here, " Obama senior adviser David Axelrod said. "We want to hit the ground running on January 20th."

A couple of weeks ago, the Mythbusters series on Discovery channel conclusively proved that “hitting the ground running” is SLOWER than starting from a standing start because of the additional friction caused by the motion of one body relative to another. I’d like to bust this myth in political speak as well. Have you ever belonged to any kind of committee or group for a long time and then had a new person come in and start telling you how to do things their way? Did it create friction in the group or smoothly increase progress? If you answered friction you are exactly right, it can create enough friction that pretty soon everyone’s wishing the newcomer would just go back where he/she came from. Wouldn’t it be refreshing to hear a politician say he/she was going to thoughtfully review the situation, build relationships, and lead from the middle to develop workable solutions? Hitting the ground running is more likely to start a wildfire, and in the current economy with its unpredictable Santa Ana like financial winds, that’s not a great idea.

November 21, 2008

2008-11-21T23:36:00.000-08:00

With the Christmas season coming and holiday advertising replacing the political barrage, I received an appropriate essay from a friend today that said in part:

"We Americans are being distracted by progressive secular materialism. Karl Marx said "Religion is the opiate of the masses." Materialism is becoming the "religion" of America. Fortunately, Christianity is not a "religion," it is a way of life. In fact, it is The Way." William R. Mann, Davenport

I can tell you after doorbelling across northeast Washington that we Americans have no shortage of material stuff, and I am no different. In fact, blogging tonight is a way of putting off de-cluttering the office! We are in danger of being swallowed up by secular materialism as a way of life.

During the recent campaign, there was an interesting exchange in the Omak newspaper over just what is a conservative way of life. I was quoted in a news article saying “I’m a conservative Republican with an open mind, just not so open that my brains fall out.” What that means to me is that my foundational conservative values are strong enough to listen to other folks’ point of view and ideas without being threatened by them. A follow-up letter to the editor claimed that I didn’t understand that conservatism is a way of life. She was correct, I do not believe conservatism is a way of life. To me, conservatism is an expression of our obligation to God to be good stewards of the blessings He has entrusted to us. Jesus Christ is the only Way of Life.

I am committed to a healthy and conservative Republican party, a limited and effective government, re-establishing the link between individual freedom and personal responsibility, and finding a way to continue working on these goals with common sense even if I am not in the Legislature. We need to be the party of bold ideas and integrity again, with confidence in our conservative roots, able to listen to other points of view and new approaches to solving problems. The silver lining to the state’s budget crunch is that throwing money at problems is off the table and prioritizing spending is unavoidable.

November 15, 2008

2008-11-16T15:44:00.000-08:00

Months ago, my husband Craig and I registered for a Family Life Today "Weekend to Remember" marriage conference in Coeur d'Alene, knowing that however the election turned out we needed to put first things first. What I expected was a nice little get away, and maybe we’d learn a few marriage communication tips. What we got out of it was way better. The afterglow is still there a week after the conference!

First of all, in the current culture, it is rare to find oneself in a room with over 1000 people who are all committed to the sanctity of marriage as a valuable and attainable goal. Our culture tells us that marriage is not about "for better or for worse," but rather "for now or until something better comes along or you really start to get on my nerves." Just check out the magazines in the grocery checkout line and look at all the articles about which celebrity just changed partners with some other celebrity.

Second, it was FUN! I laughed so hard tears came to my eyes as the speakers used humor to point out the truth of coping with real, every day relationships. We had time for reflection as couples, for discussion in small groups, and for individual study and prayer. We did get those practical communication tips that I expected, and had a good time doing it.

Third, it was enriching to a degree I hadn’t imagined. Craig and I have good relationship, and last weekend took it deeper. I recommend the Weekend to Remember program to everyone from engaged couples to the long-time married, whether you are a committed Christian or still seeking. There’s always room to grow. Check it out here.

As we grow closer to God, we grow closer to each other.

November 7, 2008

2008-11-08T11:01:00.001-08:00

As of this afternoon’s vote count, Shelly Short has a clear lead. I made the traditional call to congratulate Shelly on her win, and wished her well as she and her family prepare for the next Legislative session. The results are disappointing, but my greatest consolation is that I am in good company this year with John McCain, Sarah Palin, Dino Rossi, Doug Sutherland and Allen Martin. To paraphrase a line from Dino Rossi’s concession speech, I am comfortable in the business world and will refocus on the private sector. I look forward to the new opportunities the Lord has in store for our family.

Many of you have already written or called with your condolences on the loss and congratulations on a hard fought campaign, and I have tried to respond to each of you individually. Your support has made this a great experience, and I am grateful for the new friendships and connections. I can’t thank all of you enough for the envelope stuffing, phone calling, doorbelling, sign planting, cookie baking, postcard mailing and your hospitality along the campaign trail.

I plan to keep on blogging through my blogspot link at http://slmadsen08.blogspot.com/, you can sign up for RSS feeds if you’d like to stay in touch. Let’s all keep working together to make Washington the best state in the country to start a business and keep northeast Washington a safe and healthy place for our families!

November 5, 2008

2008-11-05T14:07:00.001-08:00

The election night results are of course disappointing, we’ll see if they hold up through the final count. I have had many calls and e-mails today with congratulations for a race run honorably and encouragement for the future. I can’t begin to tell everyone how much I have appreciated all of the cheerful volunteers who have helped with this campaign, your support has been priceless. As for future plans, it is summed up best by Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” I will wait on the Lord to see what unfolds for me in His service. Meanwhile, today I’m cleaning the house!

November 4, 2008

2008-11-04T15:44:00.000-08:00

I have had messages of encouragement from so many friends today, and each one helps me to let go a little more and leave the outcome in God’s hands (where it was all along, anyway!). I want to share with you a portion of a meditation sent to me by a friend, which he received from Pastor David Jeffers:

Do you know why we forget that God will be exalted throughout the universe no matter what? Because we are too busy running our mouths and pontificating on every subject to just stop, shut up, and listen to God. We cannot even sit silently in the morning reading God’s word without our minds wandering off thinking about the upcoming day. Sometimes my mind races so much that I have to read out loud to shut off the racket in my brain.

The Hebrew word for “be still” is rapa and it is very picturesque; it gives the vision of something “hanging limp,” “sinking down,” “of being feeble.” It can even mean “being lazy.” In other words God expects us to be motionless, almost to the point of paralysis in the knowledge that He is God and I am not, that He is in control and I am not, that He will be exalted and I will not. Can I do that? Can I actually go limp and let God be God? Sometimes I seriously doubt it.

But I will begin trying today. I will not fret, fear, or fuss about this election. I will trust God with the outcome. That is the least I can do to actively live out my faith in Jesus Christ. Look at what Psalm 46 says:

“There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn. The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted.” (Psalm 46:4-6)

When is the last time the last time you truly realized God’s ability to make the earth melt with His voice? Or when is the last time you lived the truth of Psalm 46:7?

“The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah”

Beloved, I am going to fast today, not of food but of fear, fretting, and fussing. I am not going to do it for the outcome of the election or our nation, but for me and God. It is my devotional to the Lord today to for at least 12 hours show that I can leave the outcome in His hands. Who knows, it might actually become a habit for me!

If I truly trust the Lord, I will truly trust Him today. Will you? Can you? I pray it is so for you.

Pastor David’s words are particularly appropriate as we face this historic election. The e-mail came with a link to sign up for Pastor David’s devotionals on a regular basis. Please click here and use "Please add to Devotional List" as the subject. God’s will be done.

November 2, 2008

2008-11-03T14:10:00.001-08:00

Today I volunteered to be the adult chaperone in the Nursery during worship. It turned out to be an easy assignment – Nathan (the teenager in charge) played blocks and ate pretend food with Ashley, Alexis and Portia while I sat at the table and followed along with the sermon coming in over the speaker system. Pastor Bill was speaking on Romans 6:1-21 and describing his conversation with the youth group on defining sexual purity. He said the kids tended to start from a legalistic standpoint by wanting to figure out how far they can go without crossing “the line.” The lesson Pastor Bill has been pushing is that when it comes to sin, it is not about drawing a line, it’s about what direction you are pointing.

The same lesson applies to integrity. Integrity is not about drawing a line, it’s about pointing in the right direction, staying focused on what pleases God and on accountability to God. Or as it is often defined in the secular world, integrity is about doing the right thing even when no one (on earth) is looking. Our Father, who is in heaven, is always there for us to strengthen us and hold us accountable. Individual responsibility is the core of a healthy society.

October 30, 2008

2008-10-31T04:48:00.000-07:00

It is down to the wire, and the voters will soon have their say on what kinds of education and experience are most important for effective representation for the 7th District. I’ve had a few phone calls and e-mails about specific issues as well, and it has been my pleasure to respond to each one. I truly appreciate it when citizens take their civic duty seriously and do their research.

One last time, for the record - I support the 2nd amendment in its original meaning – the individual’s right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. The introductory part about a well regulated militia is an 18th century turn of phrase, and since the entire Bill of Rights speaks to individual rights, so does the 2nd amendment. What I told an NRA rep is that I couldn’t agree to abolishing ALL current laws until I found out what that meant. I have to admit that I don’t know what ALL the laws are currently on the books beyond the laws about getting a concealed carry permit and felons losing their right to bear arms. Felons lose other kinds of rights as well, and losing the right to bear arms may be an appropriate consequence for particular crimes. Society can remove rights (for example, locking somebody up in jail and removing the right to free association) when sanctions are called for. The first half dozen NRA members I asked about this issue all had some version of “we need to abolish the laws, except maybe _______” (fill in the blank with different points of view – registering machine guns, or felons, or licensing owners but not registering the guns, etc.).

I hope the voters would not want to support a representative who would give a blank check to a lobbyist for any organization. If I had said yes, I’ll support abolishing ALL laws, I would have to mean it and do it. I won’t make a commitment to an absolute statement like that without meaning it or understanding the consequences. If anyone is filling out their ballot this weekend and has any questions on this or another issue, I welcome your e-mails or phone calls. I’ll give you a straight answer.

October 29, 2008

2008-10-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my opponent and I each faced an important question – what would be the focus of our newspaper ads for the last weekend before the ballots are due? I struggled with this one, since I was handed an armory of ammunition I could have used against my opponent in the form of the October 22nd Spokesman-Review article. It was tempting. Negative ads work, or so they say. I wrestled this one with God in prayer, and finally had to accept the answer as reinforced by a multitude of friends and strangers along the campaign trail – stay positive. The day after I accepted the decision, these verses jumped out at me from my daily devotional reading:

II Chronicles 20:15b, 17
15b. . . Thus says the Lord to you, “Fear not, and be not dismayed at this great multitude; for the battle is not yours but God’s. 17 You will not need to fight in this battle; take your position, stand still, and see the victory of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem. Fear not, and be not dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.”

My opponent reached a different decision, and has run a negative ad with a misleading and false statement about my beliefs on gun law issues. It is clearly a scare tactic aimed at 2nd Amendment voters. It makes it hard to “take [my] position, stand still, and see the victory of the Lord” when my human tendency is to want to take action, to strike back. I took it to the Lord in prayer, and found peace of mind and a direction to take action, using this as an opportunity to witness. So here is my witness – I will take and hold my position, staying positive to the end, knowing the outcome is in God’s hands. May God’s will be done.

October 28, 2008

2008-10-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Last week I made a new on-line friend, Kathrine. She is a student at Colville High School , and I was her social studies report subject. She asked me in an e-mail to please describe what I am for and against, and what I would do if elected. She had to represent my side in a debate while another student represented my opponent. Kathrine excitedly wrote back to tell me she earned a 100% score! Here’s what I sent to Kathrine:

For and Against are pretty broad categories! I’ll give you a brief list and see if that works for your report.

I am FOR following the state and federal constitutions. These are sound, proven documents and we need to refer to them more often as we think about what the duty and priorities of government are intended to be.
I am FOR balancing next biennium’s state budget without raising taxes. The state takes in enough revenue, the problem is that too many promises have been made for spending it. This means clearly identifying the priorities of state government and being willing to cut out programs that are not serving those priorities.
I am FOR implementing the findings of the performance audits as identified by the State Auditor. There are always efficiencies to be found in any large organization, and we will have to find those as well to balance the budget.
I am FOR respecting private property rights as intended by the state constitution, and tightening the law further to prevent misuse of eminent domain.
I am FOR individual initiative and personal responsibility, and getting the government out of the way of a healthy and competitive business climate.
I am AGAINST social engineering through the tax system. Taxes should be collected in a fair manner for the purpose of providing just enough (and no more) money to pay for the priorities of state government.
I am AGAINST state sponsored gambling, but recognize that we have it and have to provide a fair playing field for non-Indian and Indian owned facilities.
I am AGAINST funding the renovation of Husky Stadium with public money. The Cougars are renovating their stadium with private money, as have the regional universities. Let the Huskies take the same responsibility (and I’m not just saying that because I’m a WSU graduate!). This is not a priority of government.

If elected, I will pledge to serve all of the people of the 7th District as a strong advocate for northeast Washington. Key issues I would like to work on are improving the business environment (including agriculture as a business), getting competition back into the health insurance market, pushing for an evaluation of the Growth Management Act so we can stop doing things that aren’t working to reach the stated GMA goals, and finding old and unnecessary statutes to clean off the books.

October 27, 2008 (e-mail response to NRA question)

2008-10-27T13:43:00.000-07:00

The following is from an e-mail reply I sent to a neighbor who asked about the NRA national office postcard, sent in an attempt to influence the 7th District race. Hope it helps straighten out the situation for others also:

Thank you for coming to me for a straight answer, I know it’s a touchy subject. Having traveled in the Baltic states recently, where the fear of a Russian invasion is real and pride in past resistance to the Germans is still fresh, I understand what keeping and bearing arms means.

The NRA postcard is flat out lying. I have NOT expressed support for firearm registration and licensing requirements during this campaign, and they know it. He (the regional rep) based his original rating on a conversation 4 years ago at a barbecue in Chehalis, before I had really studied the matter much. Guns were my husband’s thing, not mine. After the 2004 election, I took up pistol shooting and made a study of the issues around the 2nd amendment. What I DID say to the regional NRA representative just a few weeks ago is that I can’t understand the basis for firearms registration and licensing requirements, given the simple and clear meaning of the 2nd amendment. That became even more clear to me when I was applying for my own concealed carry permit. Why should I have to get a permit to carry a tool that I am entitled to own?

The problem is that I was honest with him, and wouldn’t just tell him what he wanted to hear. I went on to say that I could not pledge to work to abolish all registration and licensing requirements until I had consulted with the sheriff’s and prosecuting attorney’s of the 7th District to understand how we got to where we are today. I am not ready to start a revolution without understanding the lay of the land. I am also not going to apologize for refusing to bow to a lobbyist, no matter what he is lobbying for.

Friends, when you elect me you will get an independent voice for the 7th District.

October 27, 2008

2008-10-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

The following questions and answers were published in the Newport Miner newspaper as part of their series of candidate interviews. Although the questions were specific to Pend Oreille County issues, some apply broadly across the 7th District, and the answers will give you insight into my approach to solving problems.

Q. The U.S. Congress recently renewed the Secure Rural Schools county payments program for another four years. Only in Washington state do schools not receive the federal money directly. Instead it is filtered through OSPI, and each district's state funding is reduced dollar-per-dollar with what the Secure Rural Schools law brings in. Would you work to change this, and what strategies would you use?

A. This money is intended to make up for the impact on a school district when a large percentage of the district area is in federal hands and therefore not contributing it’s share in local property taxes to pay for bonds and levies. The money should go directly to the school district, rather than being used to reimburse OSPI for fulfilling its obligations for basic education. I will work to change this by first working with the superintendents of the affected districts to establish the value of the lost revenue, then organizing a summit meeting with the Superintendent of Public Instruction to present the case. The value of the lost revenue needs to be based not on the lost timber tax, but on the impact of federal ownership on the tax base. In addition, I do not expect this program to be renewed again in four years, and we need to lay the groundwork now for a new approach to hold the federal government accountable as a landowner for impact on counties and local school and other service districts. I have already contacted Rep. McMorris Rodgers regarding the need to establish a new relationship between federal lands and the local taxing districts, with an effective Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program that flows to the junior taxing districts such as fire districts who bear a particular burden for first response to fires yet often receive none of the PILT payments.

Q. Pend Oreille County is once again without a resident fish and wildlife officer after the most recent officer was let go. He had filled the position that had been empty for nearly two years. What could you do, as our representative, to help make sure that position is filled and stays filled?

A. I have contacted the Dept. of Fish & Wildlife officer in charge of recruiting and training, Lt. Steve Crown, to find out the status of re-filling the position yet again, and am satisfied that he is working on it with all deliberate speed. If all goes well, there will be a new officer in place as a lateral hire by the end of the year, unfortunately too late for this year’s hunting season. I have Steve’s office and mobile numbers, and I believe he is also convinced that I will be calling him weekly to check on progress. As for retention, I plan to follow up on the personnel policies within the department to verify if the local rumors about difficult personalities in some positions up the chain of supervision are contributing to the local difficulties in retention. As a business owner, I know how critical good human resources policies and implementation are to finding and retaining highly qualified employees.

Q. The Usk Bridge is one of only three bridges in Pend Oreille County that crosses the Pend Oreille River, and some say it is in dire need of replacement. How could you help the county receive the funding necessary to replace that bridge?

A. As an architect, I am well aware of the price jumps in construction materials over the last 6 years that have left the county in the position of not having an adequate budget to fund replacement. The Pend Oreille County Public Works Department is on track for a Major Maintenance Project to buy an additional 10 – 15 years of time to plan for replacement. I have talked with the County Engineer and reviewed the WSDOT minutes from the project kick-off meeting, and it appears that the plan to complete design and permitting for construction occurring in 2010 is realistic. The Usk Bridge is a perfect symbol of the infrastructure problems throughout the 7th District and the state of Washington. It is too easy to operate on a crisis basis, and now is the time to be planning for the major repair or replacement of the Ione bridge as well. The County Road Administration Board (CRAB) needs support from the legislature to prioritize repairs to our aging bridges and roads before they need replacement when possible, and to plan for replacement with adequate time to set money aside. The legislature needs to take as much interest in decidedly “un-sexy” repair projects as it does in new projects with an opportunity for a photo-op at a ribbon cutting. We can’t keep building new infrastructure if we can’t afford to take care of what we already have.

October 26, 2008

2008-10-26T17:06:00.000-07:00

My opponent has let loose with another one of her long and rambling “short notes.” In one paragraph she maligns my character and accuses me of being a liar, and in the next paragraph she sanctimoniously swears “I have not and will not negatively attack my opponent.” I don’t know about you, but that sure sounded like an attack. I’ll address a few of her more relevant comments here to set the record straight, using a simple question and answer format:

Q. Your opponent has endorsements from current legislators, why don’t you?

A. Because I didn’t ask any current legislators for endorsements, nor accept them if offered. I agree with Sen. Bob Morton’s point of view, as we discussed it before the primary – currently serving legislators should not make endorsements in contested partisan races of their own party. See my Endorsement list for retired elected officials who have given their support. I have a 30 year record of working with professionals on multi-disciplinary project teams, and am confident of my ability to work as part of the legislative team.

Q. Why did the NRA give you a B rating, and why did they change it to a C??

A. I was curious about the original rating as well since my opponent and I are both NRA members and I believe the 2nd Amendment protects an individual right to bear arms. I called the NRA regional rep when the ratings first came out and asked. The original problem - I got a “B” because I refused to pledge to support abolishing ALL registration and licensing laws without first taking the time to consult with law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys in the 7th District. He said they’d change it to an “A” if would do that research and make that pledge. I ran this by several other NRA members, all of whom said they don’t want to abolish all registration and licensing laws, so I guess the NRA isn’t as monolithic as they’d like to think of themselves. I have no idea why they decided to change it to a “C,” they never bothered to actually talk to me so are getting their information second hand. It makes me wonder about their process, how it is influenced and why a national group is taking such an interest in a state legislative race.

Q. Do you have ties to the Spokesman-Review?

A. To the reporters/newspaper itself? No. To the building? Yes. In the early 1980’s as a young project architect, I had the privilege of working on the new newspaper office building as well as the renovation of the Chronicle and Review buildings. It was a great project team. I was responsible for writing the technical specifications and contracts for all three parts of the project. It was the largest project the office of Adkison Leigh Sims & Cuppage had worked on until that time, over $20 million in 1980 dollars for the first phase alone. I was honored at the trust that Tom Adkison, FAIA, placed in me and I learned my first lessons about my responsibility as an advocate for my clients on that project. It was the start of a long and fulfilling career in architecture. I am ready to take those lessons to serve my 7th District neighbors as your state representative.

Q. Are you a liberal, downtown Spokane type or a country girl?

A. I’m a conservative Republican, have lived in Lincoln County for over 30 years, started my own business so I could escape the Spokane commute too many of us put up with daily, raise 200+ head of livestock each year in partnership with my husband, Craig, and was delighted to receive new muck boots for Christmas. We are well rooted in our community and moved from Reardan to the “suburbs” of Edwall because Craig thought Reardan was too big of a town. You decide.

October 22, 2008

2008-10-22T13:37:00.000-07:00

My mother always said “if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” Sometimes that kind of politeness is a disservice to the voters. In a legislative district as large as the 7th, there are several different media markets, and it takes a long time for news to spread from one valley to another. The Spokesman-Review has been closely following all of the legislative races in eastern Washington and exercising their journalistic responsibility to dig past the candidates’ websites to check out the facts. Here is link to today’s Spokesman-Review article on the 7th District (article). I was surprised to learn how clearly my opponent does NOT have experience we can trust. It is difficult for her to run on a platform of transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility when her personal finances are in such a shambles and her first reaction is to duck responsibility when questioned.

I have no skeletons in my closet, I have solid backup at home from my business partners and my husband, and will be able to focus on serving the 7th District rather than wrestling personal dragons. I encourage anyone with any questions about my experience or my views on issues to contact me by e-mail or phone. I’ll give you the straight scoop.

October 20, 2008

2008-10-21T22:55:00.000-07:00

Campaign Q & A – To answer a few random questions I’ve fielded this week:

Q. What is the main difference between you and your opponent?

A. Education and experience. I bring proven leadership in business, have been accountable for multi-million dollar budgets on public projects, and am accustomed to being responsible for making my own decisions and accepting the consequences. I can speak with authority from first hand experience when it comes to business, health care, public safety, capital budget and agriculture issues.

Q. Will this be your full time job?

A. The State Constitution envisioned a body of citizen legislators with significant responsibilities in their farms and businesses to keep them personally tied to the concerns of the people. I believe we need to honor this intent. Like any small business owner, I have never worked only a 40 hour week in my life, so I really can give 130%. I will attend to legislative business full time and keep my hand in my professional business and our family ranch part time.

Q. Your opponent has endorsements from current legislators, why don’t you?

A. Because I didn’t ask any current legislators for endorsements, nor accept them if offered. I agree with Sen. Bob Morton’s point of view, as we discussed it before the primary – currently serving legislators should not make endorsements in contested partisan races of their own party. See my Endorsement list for retired elected officials who have given their support.

Q. Who are you beholden to?

A. I am not beholden to anybody or any organization. My focus is on representing the voters of the 7th District, and I will always put the issues and people of the 7th District first.

Q. Do you think two years as a legislative aide gives your opponent a head start?

A. No, this is a marathon and not a sprint. The legislature will be transformed with the results of this election because of changes in committee assignments and shifting power relationships within the body. All freshman will go through the same orientation and assignment process, regardless of experience as an aide. Serving as a legislative aide is not a requirement for being an effective legislator, the positions require different skill sets.

Q. You are clearly more qualified to serve as a legislator. How will you work with Rep. Joel Kretz when elected, since he endorsed your opponent?

A. I met with Joel in Olympia last spring to discuss this very question, and he told me if I was elected he would show me the same professional courtesy as Rep. Bob Sump had shown him and we would work together as a team for the good of the 7th District. I have no reason to doubt his word is good, and look forward to developing a positive working relationship. My years of working on project teams is good preparation for the legislative process. No one person can take credit for success of a piece of legislation, it takes teamwork.

October 18, 2008 (evening)

2008-10-18T23:11:00.003-07:00

Interesting goings on today on the campaign trail. Craig and I headed out early for the Avista Generating Plant at Kettle Falls to attend the 25th Anniversary Open House, then went on to join the Stevens County Republican Central Committee for a rally in the park in Chewelah. We ended the day with the Spokane County Cattleman’s Association dinner, auction and dance. It’s been ages since we’ve been dancing, a delightful evening.

While we were out, there was a flurry of activity on the e-mail. For the record, I don’t coordinate, edit or write letters to the editor (LTE) for folks who want to support me or complain about my opponent. If you read such a LTE about the 7th District campaign, it is the writer’s own opinion.

Here’s what I found in the e-mail in-box when I got home. This morning my son-in-law, Jeremy, sent a LTE to the 7th District newspapers asking pointed questions about a San Francisco based, Democrat supported PAC contribution that showed up on my opponent’s Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) report. By late afternoon he had received a reply directly to his e-mail address from Mitch Short, who apparently got a preview copy of Jeremy’s letter from one of the newspapers. Jeremy was boiling that the newspaper was providing a preview copy to my opponent, but one of the papers may have felt a legitimate need to get a reaction to the charges from her campaign. I’ll cut the unknown newspaper some slack and assume it was forwarded from an abundance of journalistic ethics. I suggested to Jeremy that he might want to tone down his letter and resubmit, but like I said before, I don’t write letters for people.

What happens next? It will be interesting to see. My opponent may try to dredge up some old misinformation spread during the 2004 election, but I have the PDC data to back me up so am not worried about that kind of a late hit. I am sure she understands the hypocrisy of complaining about my accepting contributions from Democrats when she is doing the same thing. In a two Republican race, it makes sense that independents and Democrats who have an interest in who is their next representative might want to support a favorite.

October 18, 2008

2008-10-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

The key issue in this race is experience – what kind of experience gives a legislator more resources to solve problems, more authority to speak on behalf of her constituents, more credibility to work on the state budget. Let’s compare each of those areas:

Problem Solving: My profession as an architect is all about problem solving. Although the school of hard knocks can be a good teacher, a solid university education and 30 years of professional practice provide me with a greater breadth and depth of resources to bring to the conference table.

Authority: Those who have actually “been there and done that” have more authority to speak on a subject than those who have listened and observed. As a successful small business owner, I have more authority to speak on behalf of the business community than my opponent who has no successful business experience. As a long time rural health care advocate, as recognized by my election to leadership on the Washington Rural Health Association Board and appointment to the Empire Health Foundation Board, I have real authority to speak on health care issues.

Credibility: I have managed major project budgets, been accountable for public and private money, and have real life experience in trimming budgets to fit the revenue available. That’s just the kind of experience we need when the state is finally going to have to face up to all of its program commitments and entitlements in excess of projected revenue. My opponent’s experience with budgets? She and her husband have a Superior Court judgment against them for non-payment of over $12,000 in credit card debt. She had a good job at the time, they just weren’t paying their bills. Folks have been asking me the same rhetorical question for the last two months - why would we send someone to Olympia to work on the state budget when she can’t manage her own money? She has no credibility to speak on fiscal responsibility.

Simple statements of fact are not negative campaigning. The “negative” part of that last paragraph has already been reported in several newspapers, so repeating it here is merely providing readers of the blog with the same context as regular newspaper readers. The choice in this race does come down to which kind of experience you can trust – the proven leadership of a long time successful private business owner or a short career as a government aide catering to and carrying out the directions of others. The 7th Legislative District deserves proven leadership.

October 17, 2008

2008-10-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

After listening to the two presidential candidates spend way too much time during the third debate on what negative campaigning is and who was doing more of it, it became clear that what we need is more focus on issues and less on the delivery. After all, almost any statement can be taken the wrong way if one is determined to take offense.

This morning my opponent and I had a debate at the Greater Spokane AgriBusines Council Meeting. The most interesting questions were the last two, when we each had the opportunity to ask the other a question. I asked Shelly to tell us about her family business experience, understanding that she and her husband had owned a business which had closed. I was curious to hear the answer since I have heard so many rumors in her hometown over what happened when the business failed. There was some risk in giving her a platform to talk about positive lessons learned from business failure, but curiosity got the better of me.

I was surprised by her answer – she insisted that first of all it was her husband’s business and not hers, and second that it was still operating. She insisted she had no business experience. On the Enterprise Washington survey she stated that she and her husband bought the business and she has claimed ownership in other venues as well. The business is definitely closed (building shuttered and taken over by the landlord), and the business license account closed in March 2006. This makes no sense, what’s going on? She went on to ramble about how you don’t actually have to be in business to know about it.

Her question to me was an interesting choice – she stated that knowing that I testified against the Y2Y bill in the 2008 legislature, how would I protect agriculture from the Y2Y coalition in the 2009 legislature. I first gave the safe, short answer - that this is a bad bill for northeast Washington and needs to be stopped for the sake of our communities, agriculture and business. I went on to actually answer the question of “how.”

Last year as I prepared my testimony, knowing that we needed to convince the Democrats on the committee to vote against the bill, I worked on exploiting a weakness I saw in the justification of the bill’s sponsor, claiming this call for a wildlife corridor had local collaborative support. I called local environmental groups and the three tribes in the 7th District and verified that indeed they had not even been contacted, much less involved in any collaborative efforts. One regional environmental leader told me he had tried to get the bill killed before the session, but was unsuccessful. Unfortunately, he was also unwilling to go public with his opposition. The environmental groups are tighter than the Mafia when it comes to keeping silence, and we need to break through that code of silence and get our local environmental groups on board with us to block this bill. Without a broader base of opposition, this bill will keep coming back and coming back like a bad weed that didn’t get the roots pulled out the first time.

I’m sure that answer will show up in a short note somewhere claiming I want to “collaborate with the enemy.” That’s the kind of isolationist thinking that would keep my opponent from being an effective legislator. I call it taking care of business.

October 15, 2008

2008-10-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

My opponent is crowing all over the place about how she got an “A” rating from the NRA and I got a “B”. We are both NRA members. Want to know what the difference is? I did, so I called the NRA regional rep and asked. The problem - I refused to pledge to support abolishing ALL registration and licensing laws without first taking the time to consult with law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys in the 7th District on the repercussions of such a bold step. I got a “B” because I insist on thinking problems through instead of going for the easy sound bite. When I told this story to folks I had met at the Friends of NRA banquet in Stevens County, the group consensus was they were glad I got the “B”. Guess not all NRA members think the same way. It would be so much easier just to let lobbyists do the thinking for me, but I think for myself.

October 14, 2008

2008-10-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

The following went out via e-mail as a campaign update, but it’s worth posting to the blog as well:

Ballots are out this week, time to knuckle down and complete your pre-voting homework! In addition to the official Secretary of State’s Voter’s Guide mailed out this week and available on line, there are several other websites offering a comparison between candidates. Project Vote Smart, linked from my last blog, is one such website. Enterprise Washington is another. Enterprise Washington is a network of private sector leaders who are committed to economic prosperity for all Washingtonians, and their home page can be reached at http://enterprisewashington.org/.

Enterprise Washington has developed the GROW program, Growing Roots for Our Workforce. The GROW program is a non-partisan pro-business website allowing you to compare candidate responses to a series of business focused questions. You can reach their on-line Voter Guide for all state-wide races through the home page, or go directly to the 7th District race by clicking this link:
http://www.growwa.com/php.asp?g=washington&page=Candidate_Guide&legdistrictid=6706

As of today, my opponent has still left several questions on the GROW “test” blank, including the following:

Is there anything in your background that, if publicized, would prove an embarrassment to you or the organizations endorsing you?
Realizing that you may be serving in the legislature next year, what one thing, more than any other, do you want to see accomplished?

Interesting questions to leave blank. You may draw your own conclusions.

October 10, 2008

2008-10-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the campaign, a friend said she would be praying for me to be clearly understood, knowing that others would attempt to twist my words. My opponent recently posted a “short note #2” on her website, also to be distributed by e-mail, attempting to twist my words to suit her liking.

My opponent has taken information from the Political Courage Test on the Vote Smart website at http://www.votesmart.org/ out of context as a pathetic attempt to define as me as other than a conservative business owner. I encourage you to take a look at the Vote Smart website, read the questions and answers in context, reach your own conclusions, and contact me if you have any questions. I would have posted a side by side comparison here, but my opponent has failed to complete the Political Courage Test and we can’t tell what she might do.

Interestingly, she also deleted the “Comparisons” tab on her website that has said “coming soon” for the last few weeks. In order to run side by side comparisons she’d have to commit herself to taking positions on issues that move beyond mere general talking points. She would have to recognize the complexity of real world decision making outside of a government office. I challenge her to take the Political Courage Test.

And for the record – her first “short note #1” uses the same style of misleading misquotes and mudslinging. She knows she’s misquoting me because I pointed it out to her last week. I really hoped we could have a clean race. I’ll keep it clean on my side, and use this blog to set the record straight as needed.

September 29, 2008

2008-09-29T14:55:00.000-07:00

Just finished reading the WashingtonPost.com breaking news update on the economy, and I’m glad the $700 billion bailout bill failed. We got into this mess not only from Wall Street ethics of greed, or deficient government oversight but from the ham-handed meddling in the market that forced banks to take on bad loans in the name of increasing home ownership. Most folks don’t realize the Community Reinvestment Act of the 1980’s was changed in 1995 to require banks to extend credit to otherwise unworthy credit risks, or face significant fines. Yes, the banks and mortgage lenders made mistakes, but we asked them to get into the sub-prime market because we didn’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings by denying a loan. The rejection of the bailout was bi-partisan. These were my two favorite quotes from the Washington Post website (WP Site):

Arguing that the country was on a "slippery slope toward socialism," Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Tex.) urged his colleagues to oppose the bill because of the "unintended consequences" to come. "If we lose our ability to fail, we will soon lose our ability to succeed. If we bail out risky behavior, we will soon see even riskier behavior," said Hensarling, the leader of a conservative caucus.

"It's not sustainable and we know it won't solve the underlying problem," said Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.).

Do you think those homeowners who were drawn into an unsustainable loan are happier than if they had simply been able to find decent market rate rental housing at an affordable price? Home ownership is a good thing for many people, but not if you’re paying interest only on an adjustable rate mortgage. That’s a cruel illusion, and turned out to be a set up for failure. Congress needs to go back to the drawing board. We don’t have $700 billion just laying around to throw at the problem.

September 28, 2008

2008-09-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

I was listening to CNN this afternoon, following the breaking financial news, when the CNN Special Investigations Unit came on with a couple of interesting reports.

First, there has been derisive reporting on the Road to Nowhere in Alaska that leads to where the Ketchikan Airport Bridge (aka Bridge to Nowhere) was supposed to be built. CNN reported that the contract for the road had been signed before Gov. Palin took office, and under the rules governing the transportation money, Alaska was stuck with the road construction. That says more about why earmarks are bad business and why government contracting rules need change more than it says about the State of Alaska or any of its recent governors. Gov. Palin did cancel the bridge.

Second, the reporter expressed surprise that Sen. Joe Biden has been pushing the bridge as a campaign issue when his own record is not so clear of targets. In the last fiscal year, Sen. Biden requested 116 earmarks totaling $342 million. The earmarks include the Indian River Inlet Bridge connecting Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach to avoid forcing tourists having to take a 35 minute detour. The two small Delaware communities currently have a bridge, but it is safe and there is time to put the project in line behind more urgent needs - unless you are Joe Biden and you want to jump to the head of the line. I could show the Senator a few old bridges in northeast Washington that need replacement because they are about to fail, with severe load limits posing a threat to public health and safety.

Oh, and by the way, Sen. Biden and Sen. Obama also voted for the transportation bill authorizing the Bridge to Nowhere. They also voted to oppose re-directing the money from the Ketchikan bridge to repair a bridge in Louisiana damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Sen. McCain wasn’t in the Senate that day, so we don’t have his vote on the record, but he has a very clear record of opposing earmarks.

People who live in glass houses need to be careful before they start pitching stones. That’s a lesson worth remembering for anyone in a hot political campaign.

September 22, 2008

2008-09-22T18:39:00.001-07:00

I’ve aspired to be an author since Mrs. Ryder in the first grade set up an “Author’s Table” for a few of us precocious early readers/writers. My contributions to the Washington Rural Health Association Newsletter have been published regularly since 2001, an outlet for my passion for rural healthcare issues as well as for the fun of writing. The August issue is posted to the web, and my article is at http://www.wrha.com/August 2008 Newsletter/guested808.html. You can go into the site through the home page at www.wrha.com and find out more about how WRHA is working to support rural communities throughout the state. You might even consider joining!

September 21, 2008

2008-09-22T03:37:00.001-07:00

One of the pleasures of my life is preparing the weekly “Time for Children” message for our worship service at Reardan Presbyterian. It challenges me to examine my faith and focus on a single concept that can be taught in 5 minutes. The adults also call it the “Sermon for the Short Attention Span.” Today’s lesson was a good one to share on a political blog, so here is the story of today’s Time for Children.

“Does anybody know what special day we remembered on September 17th?” You never know what kind of an answer you’ll get from the kids, the most popular answer was “Talk Like a Pirate Day.” James shot his hand up and answered correctly “Constitution Day,” commemorating the ratification of the United States Constitution. We shared high fives!

My devotional reading over the summer has been in the Old Testament in I and II Samuel and continuing on into I and II Kings. I described how the Israelites pleaded with God to give them a king, just like all the other countries, and God said “okay, but you’re not going to like it.” I pulled a jeweled crown, usually reserved for a wise man in the Christmas pageant, out of my special blue bag reserved for the day’s object lesson and placed it on James’ head. His face immediately turned into one of giddy greed, as he rubbed his hands together in anticipation of power. I couldn’t have arranged a better reaction for the object lesson! “That’s why God said we would regret asking for a king, see what happened to James as soon as he put on a crown?”

I explained why our Constitution set us apart from all the other countries, we reserved the power for the people and not for a king. Next I read the Preamble to the kids:

We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution of the United States of America.

We talked briefly about what the old fashioned phrases mean to us today. I described for them how the next 44 days there will be lots of advertisements and phone calls and mail about the elections, with lots of different opinions and arguing and accusations, and asked what will happen on Election Day. Got a great answer from one of the kids (I love it when the lesson is Spirit led!): “It will stop.” She was right - all the rhetoric and arguing will stop, and our country will get on with life. Our Constitution gives us confidence that power will be handed over peacefully, as it has been for over 200 years, quite different from the ongoing battles of the Old Testament kings.

The Constitution was written by men who believed we could not have an earthly king, because we already have a heavenly King. Our Constitution is our best attempt at a “more perfect” union, not a perfect union, and it has served us well. We ended by thanking God for our Constitution and the men who wrote it, and for God as our perfect King who offers us a perfect union in His Kingdom.

Worship restores the soul. I’m ready for another week on the campaign trail!

September 15, 2008

2008-09-16T03:35:00.000-07:00

I’m working late tonight to wrap up a final draft of a Study & Survey for a local school district, which is a formalized capital facilities report to the Office if the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). It is a required submittal as part of the process of developing a building project and applying for state matching funds for construction and remodeling, and it asks for all sorts of demographic data that has little to do with whether the roof needs to be replaced or not. I was on the OSPI website looking for a particular form summarizing the district-wide minority population census and came across a checklist for evaluating a school district for compliance with racial/ethnic diversity and sensitivity. What struck me was that the list represented the tyranny of the minority. One of the positive factors to evaluate for is “Honoring Muslim students’ need for a place to pray during the school day.”

I have no problem with honoring our Muslim students’ need for a place to pray, but why don’t we recognize the need for Christian students to pray as equally worth honoring? Why must the majority keep silent? George Washington would be disheartened at how we have lost touch with our roots.

September 11, 2008

2008-09-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

My opponent has unleashed a ludicrous personal attack via a fundraising e-mail. For anyone out there who is still wondering, here are my positions on the hot-button test issues for conservatives. I am unapologetically:

1. Anti-abortion and pro-life
2. Believe the 2nd Amendment to the US Constitution protects an individual right to bear arms
3. Will never vote to support gay marriage

Now let’s get on with the business of running the state. We need experienced business owners in the legislature who understand economic development because they have actually created the jobs that generate the taxes that pay the salaries of government employees. We need a representative who knows how to work well with others to find solutions to the common problems facing northeast Washington. We need a strong, independent woman with small-town values who understands rural issues, and who is not afraid to say what she thinks. My record of proven leadership in business, in the community and as a project architect and team leader demonstrate the truth. I look forward to earning your vote in support of common sense, compassion and integrity in the legislature.

September 1, 2008

2008-09-02T03:05:00.001-07:00

I was blessed with two successful and safe campaign road trips over the Labor Day weekend. A friend from church, Becky, joined me on Friday/Saturday for a trip north to work at the Ferry County Fair. I always appreciate a chauffeur, and it’s the best (only?) way to spend time with friends during a busy campaign season. We had a great time sign planting, doorbelling and otherwise making use of the two days. Becky was interested in a dog she had seen on Craig’s List in the town of Orient, and she was able to make contact with the owner on our way to Republic.

The second trip was especially joyful, as my daughter and grandson joined me for a Sunday/Monday holiday. We left after worship service Sunday morning for a trip that included Sunday dinner with family, overnight at the Blue Moose Cabins, the annual Labor Day Parade and Lions Club barbecue in Northport, and a stop to offer congratulations at the Konzs’ 50th wedding anniversary celebration at the K Diamond K Ranch south of Republic. Although it was another great trip from a campaign standpoint, the best part was the privilege of sharing a “first” with grandson Gabriel. He had his first ferry ride on the Martha S. at the Keller Ferry. Gabe gives me the opportunity to see the commonplace through new eyes, enjoying the simple fun of a playing with a balloon at a party and the sheer pleasure of being out on the water near sunset.

May we all remember to get our priorities straight - God, family and friends come first. Prioritizing is critical to keeping politics in perspective, and to competing in politics with a clear conscience.

August 29, 2008

2008-08-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

Exciting news this morning - Sarah Palin is an inspired choice for Vice-President! She’s a strong, sensible woman who has shown that she is independent of entrenched politics by taking on the Alaska establishment and passing a tough ethics reform bill. She has executive leadership experience as a mayor and a governor, balancing John McCain’s legislative experience. Announcing the morning after the Democratic convention ended is a great strategic choice for John McCain. Her youth balances the ticket and is a great strategic choice for John McCain. She’s an energetic maverick, and we can’t overlook the fact that picking a woman is an great strategic choice for John McCain. Did I make it clear that I think John McCain is a great strategist? That’s what we need in the next president and vice-president – independent, strategic thinkers.

I was confident Senator McCain plus a governor as VP could beat two senators; McCain/Palin will beat Obama/Biden hands down. With her Sandpoint/University of Idaho connections, Sarah Palin might even carry the Pacific Northwest!

August 24, 2008

2008-08-24T18:01:00.001-07:00

The "top two" in the primary is definitely decided and I’m in, although who goes in first place has turned into a nail biter - won’t know for sure until the last counts are in on September 3rd. What is clear from the results is where I need to focus for the general election. With low voter turnout in several counties, there are a lot of voters out there looking for a candidate, and with 5 candidates in the primary, there are a lot of voters out there looking for a new candidate.

The feedback from conversations with folks at three county fairs this weekend (Northeast Washington Fair in Colville, Lincoln County Fair and Pend Oreille County Fair) confirms my message is on target – we need to send a representative for northeastern Washington with a strong background as an entrepreneur. Voters are eager to see basic business common sense brought to bear on the looming state budget crisis and on improving the business climate. Voters are looking for honesty and integrity in government. Government experience is a turn-off, successful hands-on business experience is what folks are excited about, and therein lies the key difference between me and my opponent.

To all my supporters – thank you for all you do and on to November!

August 19, 2008

2008-08-21T12:04:00.001-07:00

It was a hard fought campaign and the early results are in. We are in the lead 4909 to 4851 over Shelly Short, with Mike Davis in 3rd place at 3283. As the campaign heads into the general election, I am grateful for the support of folks all over the 7th District and will be working hard to prepare for a strong finish in November.

Next ballot counts for Lincoln, Pend Oreille and Spokane counties will be Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 pm. Okanogan, Stevens and Ferry won't update again until Friday. It will be interesting to see if the later ballots trend differently than those mailed earlier, given the unfortunate late breaking news related to the Short family. Our prayers are with them as they face a difficult situation.

We will continue to focus on running a positive campaign and getting our message out - the Legislature needs more representatives with hands on business and agriculture experience. The Spokesman-Review endorsement editorial summed up the message nicely - "Madsen is a solid choice with ideas and common sense." Their assessment is borne out by the lengthening list of endorsements from business and professional organizations, updated regularly on my website. These groups carefully review the qualifications and positions of candidates, often with a personal interview, before making a decision to offer their support. It’s a great process in a democratic society.

August 8, 2008

2008-08-08T23:02:00.000-07:00

In Chinese society, 08-08-08 is a very auspicious date. Three very good things have happened today. My husband, Craig, arrived home for a two week break from his summer schedule of grazing projects, our fire district had a lightning strike fire that was witnessed and called in so quickly that a disastrous hay fire was averted, and the Spokesman-Review endorsed me for the 7th District Position 1 race. It is an honor to be described as a solid choice with ideas and common sense, I’ll take those adjectives any day.

August 8, 2008

2008-08-08T03:31:00.001-07:00

It’s getting harder to find time to blog as we accelerate towards the primary election. I’ve doorbelled in all 6 counties in 10 different communities, and have a long ways yet to go. People keep asking me if there are any polls that will give a hint at the outcome. Without the expensive polling of the “big” races, the informal sources of feedback have been from the audiences after candidate forums or standing on somebody’s front porch introducing myself. I’ve heard “I liked your presentation,” or “we see your signs all over,” but the most common and most gratifying comment has been “oh yes, I just got my voter’s pamphlet, I have to sit down and read it.” I predict a new high turnout for the primary this year because of the primary voter’s pamphlet. I’ve also had a few e-mails and phone calls from voters getting ready to fill out their ballots, asking about one hot issue or another, and I’ve answered them all. It’s great that so many voters are doing their research and voting thoughtfully, that’s all any candidate has a right to ask.

July 27, 2008

2008-07-28T03:24:00.000-07:00

A simple thought on a Sunday evening . . .

What society needs is a good grasp of the concept of "enough." Enough shoes, enough clothes, enough food, enough house for each of us. Does anybody really need 24 pairs of shoes in the closet, 48 souvenir T-shirts in the drawer, more sugar calories in a bottle of soda pop than is wise to consume in one day or a 10,000 sf house for a family of four? Religious faith leads to recognition that we as individual humans are not the center of our universe. That understanding is essential to grasping the concept of sustainable living - we are to be stewards, not consumers of God's creation.

July 18, 2008

2008-07-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

I was working from my home office this afternoon when my fire pager went off in the middle of a phone call. My neighbor’s house caught fire after he left a pan on the stove, and in spite of our best efforts it was a total loss. We saved the outbuildings and kept it from spreading with the 20 mph wind to the nearby fields, but otherwise quite a dispiriting afternoon and evening. The only blessings were that no one was hurt and it wasn’t two weeks later with the wheat field fully ripe and ready to explode into flame.

It’s not the first time I’ve had to tell a client “I’m sorry, I have to go now” with multiple pager tones sounding in the background. My rural clients understand a fire department call without explanation, I’m not sure this client understood. I’ve sent apologetic e-mails to my client as well as the organizer of a BBQ that I missed this evening. That’s life in the country.

The fire call reminded me of another motivation for improving the rural economic climate. There was way too much gray hair on the fire ground today. We have a few younger folks joining up, and they are much appreciated, but the pool is just too small as employment opportunities shrink. Volunteer fire departments rely on self employed entrepreneurs as a major source of recruits, people who have the ability to control their time and prioritize community service high on their list. We need people who live and work in the same rural area rather than commuting many miles away. We need more economic opportunity in the countryside, and a healthier business climate for more successful start-ups.

July 7, 2008

2008-07-07T18:17:00.001-07:00

No surprise - more parades and community events over the 4th of July weekend. Suncrest Community Day at Lakeside Middle School on July 4th was a low key event, a nice day out in the sun visiting with neighbors. Conconully Independence Day Parade on July 5th was a blast, literally, when I participated in the Firefighter’s Challenge after the parade. The object is to use a blast of high pressure water to propel a ball hanging high on a cable across your opponent’s goal line and prevent him from getting it across yours. It was a good hot day to get soaking wet! Check back for photos in a week or so.

The most emotional event was the Deer Park Independence Day Concert at Perrin Field just prior to a spectacular fireworks show on the evening of the 4th of July. I joined the choir from the Baptist Church to augment the alto section, and we presented a collection of patriotic songs as a backdrop to a series of carefully selected historical readings. I was moved to tears. We have so unwisely disconnected our country and our culture from the foundation of faith that is – or was – our strength.

It was in the back row of the choir at Reardan Presbyterian Church over 20 years ago that I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior, understanding for the first time that I had to surrender all to receive everything. It was in the back row of the Deer Park Baptist choir on the 4th of July that God tapped me to speak publicly about my faith while I am campaigning. It’s a daunting assignment for a quiet Presbyterian. It feels a bit like I just agreed to walk on a high wire without a net, but I know God will be there with me.

June 25, 2008

2008-06-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Neighbors –

30 years ago, I graduated from Washington State University with a degree in architecture and no relevant work experience. My resume of part time college jobs made me well qualified as a movie projectionist, mail room clerk, audio-visual technician or teaching assistant. I really enjoyed my undergraduate years living in Pullman, but the job opportunities in the field of architecture were limited. With the founding of the WSU branch campus in Spokane, today’s students have opportunities to blend work experience and theory in a way that strengthens both the academic and the business communities.

My partners at Madsen Mitchell Evenson & Conrad and I are committed to providing internship opportunities for WSU students in architecture and interior design. We have benefited from the students’ enthusiasm, energy and technology savvy, and in turn we strive to provide interesting work experience and insights into classic common sense principles of practice. We look for interns with creative problem solving skills, graphic design aptitude, a willingness to pitch in where needed, and the ability to write clearly.

Take note – the last two characteristics are more relevant to K-12 schools than to graduate school. Every business in the state is looking for employees with good basic skills in reading and writing. Small businesses don’t have the time and resources to run remedial English classes for new hires. We need a system that provides accountability, and the WASL is filling that niche for now. After talking with teachers, administrators, parents and school board members, it is clear that the WASL needs change but we do need a testing system that expects our students to perform to high standards. We need to improve on the efficiency (primarily in the cost and time to administer) and effectiveness (teachers have cited the length and the lack of useful individual feedback as issues), but now is not the time to discard what has been learned and start from zero.

Small business is dependent on the quality of the public education system for the quality of employees. In turn, small local businesses support our local schools by sponsoring academic excellence programs, clubs and organizations, music and sports events, and drama productions. Small businesses often provide those first entry level jobs where kids learn the importance of showing up on time and a willingness to pitch in, traits that should be reinforced in our schools. As a business owner, I am proud to support our local schools so they can support our local businesses.

June 23, 2008

2008-06-23T20:05:00.001-07:00

More good news! I just received a phone call informing me I have received the endorsement of the Washington State Nurses Association. This one is very meaningful to me because I did not agree on their questionnaire with every position the WSNA has taken, but we agree on the principles. We agree that the healthcare system needs healing. We agree on the need to work collaboratively with all parts of the health care system to make it come about. As an EMT, I share nurses’ passion to keep the focus on high quality, compassionate care for our patients. I am honored by their trust.

June 21, 2008

2008-06-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

Good news to share! The National Federation of Independent Business/Washington state Save America’s Free Enterprise Trust (NFIB/WA SAFE Trust) today endorsed my campaign, saying in part:

“By receiving the endorsement of the NFIB/WA SAFE Trust, you have proven your willingness and ability to fight for small business in Olympia. Your efforts show that you understand the importance of small business to our state’s economy. You have also shown that you will fight to protect our free enterprise system and we appreciate your efforts.”

The NFIB endorsement follows on the heels of recently announced endorsements by Secretary of State Ralph Munro (retired), State Senator John Moyer, MD (retired), and State Representative Duane Sommers (retired). The campaign has also received a letter of personal support from Wayne McMorris, long time Republican activist in NE Washington (see endorsement page for links to Wayne McMorris’ letter and the NFIB press release).

June 16, 2008

2008-06-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

I thought we hit a high point on June 7th when the Madsen Campaign was represented in three parades in three counties, but we topped that one on June 14th. Last Saturday was a great campaign day, four parades in three counties and our campaign covered them all! Special thanks to my parents for representing me at the Colville Rodeo Parade. Mom drove, and I understand the announcer caught my Dad relaxing in the passenger seat and announced “I see someone snoozing.” That’s one way to draw attention to the campaign car! Also thanks to my neighbor Joan H. for driving the Sprague Days Parade for the Madsen campaign as a last minute fill in, really appreciate the way you stepped up, Joan. And last but definitely not least, thank you to the “Madsen Air Force” and Tom G. for giving me a lift between Wilbur and Republic, making it possible for me to walk both the Wild Goose Bill Days and Prospector Days parades, accompanied by drivers Nancy J. and Virginia S. with the signs and crepe paper streamers. It’s great to have depth on the bench, and it was even better when Tom let me take the yoke and fly the Cessna. Thanks for your vote of confidence on the take off from Curlew, very cool!

June 1, 2008

2008-06-02T05:24:00.000-07:00

The Omak-Okanogan Chronicle published a letter to the editor questioning my understanding of the health insurance crisis in the United States, after I had submitted a letter along the lines of my March 28, 2008 blog. The best part of the letter is that he got my name spelled correctly as well as the position I’m running for – it’s all good. I wrote a letter to the editor tonight to assure the Tonasket writer that I do indeed “get it” that many individuals and families cannot afford the premiums for private insurance. Employers who offer coverage as a benefit in lieu of paying higher salaries are also finding it difficult to afford rising premiums.

There are two possible responses when something is expensive – find somebody else to buy it for you or find a cheaper alternative. In the case of health insurance, our Democrat controlled state legislature and elected Insurance Commissioner (also a Democrat) have all but eliminated a competitive health insurance market in the State of Washington. All insurance policies have to include coverage for over 50 mandated conditions or treatments whether the individual wants them or not.

When we rely on government to buy anything for us, we pay for it in higher taxes with less control over what we get for the money. Government has no money that did not first come from you, me and your neighbor next door.

The Tonasket writer stated that the state does offer medical coverage for legislators, implying I would naturally accept such coverage and then he could label me a hypocrite. However, I will refuse to accept this coverage and will continue to purchase my own. After experiencing the freedom of being my own boss for the last 11 years, I am not relinquishing control over my health insurance to the state of Washington.

As an employer, I know how hard it is to select an insurance plan that fits the needs of our staff of 14 and our dependents. Any plan we select will be not quite right for somebody, but at least as a business partner I have a say in the decision. The State of Washington and the federal government cannot design a plan that fits all citizens. Our safety net programs of Medicaid and Medicare serve a good purpose, but cannot carry the entire population. These programs do not pay the full cost of care delivered, and rely on the private market to subsidize their costs. For Medicaid and Medicare to survive, we need a healthy private health insurance market, one that is competitive and allows individuals to choose from multiple plans they can afford.

Hopefully, the country and the state will turn away from the higher taxes and lower patient satisfaction typical with socialized medicine by electing John McCain for president and Dino Rossi for governor this November. Now if we could also elect a new Insurance Commissioner...

May 18, 2008

2008-05-30T05:53:00.001-07:00

With so many campaign obligations heating up along with the weather, it’s going to be hard to keep up blogging as an independent activity. For today’s entry, here is a link to the most recent (April issue) of the Washington Rural Health Association newsletter: http://www.wrha.com/currentissue.htm. My article is titled “Organizations and Associations Matter,” highlighting the value of voluntary philanthropic and charitable organizations in American culture. The inspiration for this article came after attending the Mount Carmel Hospital Foundation Fundraiser, where a lot of good people got together to make a difference in their community. Thank you, God, for volunteers!

May 5, 2008

2008-05-12T15:52:00.000-07:00

Wildfire season 2008 officially began on April 15th. Are you and your community ready? Local fire districts train year round to respond to timber and rangeland fires, structure fires, and everyone’s worst case scenario of wildland-urban interface fire. Have you prepared your house for wildland fire season by:

Removing dead branches hanging over power lines or roofs?
Removing leaf and needle accumulation?
Pruning branches 6’-10’ above ground and removing ladder fuels?
Making sure your generator, pump and hoses are in good order?
Checked your road signage so emergency vehicles can find you quickly?

As a 20 year fire district volunteer, I participate regularly in training to respond to other people’s emergencies, but that doesn’t mean I do a perfect job of keeping my own home fire safe. Knowing and doing are two different things. We deny a catastrophe will happen to us, we may make plans but other priorities demand attention. It’s a matter of determining your household priorities and getting those dead branches pruned and the pine needles raked. Make a plan, set aside the time and just do it.

State government is no different – denial, deferral and delay are universal human traits. We will be moving into the 2009-2011 budget process facing a deficit every bit as daunting as facing a wildland-urban interface fire. We need to take the same approach to facing both – get a good size-up of the situation, make a plan and carry it out. Determining priorities is a key part of the fire size-up, and determining Priorities of Government (POG) will be a key part of the budget size-up. The POG approach is defined as “budgeting based on results, without raising taxes” (see the Evergreen Freedom Foundation web link at http://www.effwa.org/budget_taxes/pog.php for more information). With a good POG size-up, we can handle the budget and face down the deficit without raising taxes.

As I’ve been listening to 7th District voters at open houses, community meetings, and doorbelling, I’ve heard your frustration. We wonder if we are getting value for our tax dollar. We want safe and secure communities, good schools and a vigorous economy with decent jobs. We want roads and bridges in good repair. We hope that the services we rely on will be there for us. We want the freedom to enjoy the fruits of our own labor. We’re tired of studies that too often result in more paperwork, less freedom and no better quality of life. We want accountability and results. We need to get our priorities straight, make a plan for budgeting based on results (without raising taxes!), and just do it. I’m ready to take on the challenge, and look forward to a successful campaign!

May 1, 2008

2008-05-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I graduate from the Washington Agriculture and Forestry (AgForestry) Education Foundation Leadership Program. It has been a wonderful opportunity and an invigorating journey. My classmates and I have covered over 30,000 miles and listened to at least 300 speakers on a wide variety of policy, leadership development and natural resource industry subjects. The program is currently seeking accreditation at a Masters level, but I’d recommend the experience to anyone contemplating a future in public service, with or without the extra credential. The Foundation works hard at striking a balance in each class between agricultural producers, forest industry workers, fisheries and shellfish producers, and natural resource agency staff. It’s not just about the individual learning, the network is becoming so well connected that applications are now coming in from commodity group staff and environmental groups. It is always a struggle for those of us who are self-employed producers to participate, and the Foundation is working hard to attract more producers into the program to maintain the focus and balance. We spent time today brainstorming ways to get the message out – the AgForestry leadership program is an awesome opportunity!

April 18, 2008

2008-04-19T05:07:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I spent most of the day working on my laptop from a hotel lobby. It made for a great office – view of a lake, comfortable furniture, completely connected with wi-fi and cell phone as if I were at home but without the distractions of other projects tumbling across the desk. I overheard the desk clerk quoting room rates for various groups of travelers. When the rate is $118 for the average business traveler, why is the “government rate” $76? Why does the government get a price break that isn't available to the average citizen? It occurred to me that the differential between the government rate and the basic rate represented a hidden subsidy for the government. On paper, the government looks like a thriftier purchaser of hotel rooms compared to private enterprise.

There is a similarity with Medicaid and Medicare. Neither government healthcare program pays the full cost of the care being provided. The difference between the cost of care in the marketplace and the amount paid by the government is a hidden subsidy of government health care, and makes any comparison of which system is more economically efficient nearly impossible. The arguments in favor of a nationalized healthcare system fail to take into account who is going to pay when we abolish the golden goose who pays the subsidy.

Every time we accept subsidies like this, we hide the true cost of government.

April 9, 2008

2008-04-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

In honor of the upcoming 7th District Lincoln Day Marathon Weekend (four Lincoln Day dinners in three days), I’m going to take this opportunity to highlight a few of my favorite quotes from President Abraham Lincoln:

On Conservatism: “In all that the people can individually do as well for themselves, the government ought not to interfere.”

On Ethics: “Some things that are legally right are not necessarily morally right.”

On Honesty: “I have always wanted to deal with everyone I meet candidly and honestly. If I have made any assertion not warranted by facts, and it is pointed out to me, I will withdraw it cheerfully.”

On Injustice: “The best way to get a bad law repealed is to enforce it strictly.”

On the Republican Party: “Republicans are for both man and the dollar but in case of conflict the man before the dollar.”

That last quote is an excellent opportunity to remember that the Republican Party was founded as a break away abolitionist party, asserting that all men are created equal in God’s sight and deserve an equal opportunity to succeed or fail on individual merit and initiative. Now if we could just get the government to stop interfering in that which we can and should do individually for ourselves . . . .

March 28, 2008

2008-03-29T11:22:00.001-07:00

The rest of the story of John Doe (see March 26, 2008 blog):

As I expected, the negative publicity surrounding John Doe’s plight bought him an exception from the insurance company. After denials in the first two rounds of appeals, a higher up functionary looked at the bad press and said yes.

For anybody who thinks it would be different under Canadian style nationalized coverage, think again. The Canadian press frequently has stories about hard luck cases similar to John Doe, and the ending is often similar. A government bureaucrat is embarrassed or pressured into changing the rules that create waiting lists and a scarcity of the highest tier treatments.

Sometimes the story ends differently – our Canadian John Doe travels to the US for treatment. If we have nationalized health care, where will we travel for our treatment when the line is too long? The only way the healthcare system functions rationally is when the people seeking treatment are empowered to manage their own access to care.

March 26, 2008

2008-03-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

Today’s Spokesman-Review is a perfect case study of why employers should NOT be responsible for buying health insurance for employees. The employee (let’s call him John Doe) is very ill with hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. He has a 10 year old son, a loving wife, and a meaningful career as a drug and alcohol counselor. He changes lives every day. John has just risen to the top of the list for a lifesaving liver transplant. John’s employer just renegotiated the company health insurance plan. Since they changed carriers to get the best plan at the best price, there is now a 6 month waiting period for a transplant to be covered. John can’t wait 6 months. John will die.

If John and his family were in charge of purchasing their own insurance, knowing their own needs, this would not happen.

We need a competitive individual insurance market. We need to get people out of the habit of giving control over their health insurance coverage to their employer. Employers can’t ask employees about their health care needs. Employers buying health insurance without knowing their employees health needs makes about as much sense as if the boss bought your car for you without asking how many kids you have to carry, does your driveway require 4WD in the winter, or can you drive a stick shift.

Employers purchase health care for employees because of wage controls initiated by FDR during World War II. Employers had to compete for a limited labor pool in some way, and started offering health insurance. It doesn’t have to be this way, we can change. The tradition is barely 65 years old. It’s time to retire the old tradition and let us be in charge of our own health care and health insurance. First step – challenge the Insurance Commissioner to do his job right and let us have access to a competitive market!

March 14, 2008

2008-03-28T18:57:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy campaign week, next week will be busier, and after that it will accelerate! All the more reason to take the afternoon off today and spend it at 49 Degrees North. My company (Madsen Mitchell Evenson Conrad) takes a break once a quarter to have fun together, and winter quarter 2008 found the team on the mountain for a day of skiing. Craig and I joined them after he finished morning chores at the barn and I attended the annual Spokane County “State of the County” breakfast in Airway Heights. The expanded runs off the new Sunrise Quad Chair #5 were great fun, and we concluded we need to get on the slopes one more time before the season closes. It doesn’t look like March 14th, more like January 14th!

We chose to try rental equipment because our skis and bindings are out of date and out of tune, and no shop will touch them for fear of liability. The new skis, bindings and boots were great, and I was sold on the improved performance of the new style fat skis in the first 100 yards off the lift. The new poles, however, just weren’t the same as my old ones with the mismatched baskets and the leather straps. They perform fine, and there is no reason to replace them. We’ll look for a good end of season deal on boots and skis, and keep the old poles - a simple choice of common sense over chasing style.

I’ve tried writing a couple of endings to pull this blog back to some big, philosophical conclusion. I’ve concluded there isn’t one. Even while taking an afternoon off, I ended up campaigning on the chair lift, in the lodge, at the gas station and at the hardware store. The campaign trail will be all consuming for the next eight months. Game on!

March 7, 2008

2008-03-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

In the 1980’s I belonged to the Reardan Town Ladies Softball Team, nicknamed the JG’s (for Jay’s Girls, since Jay Garber graciously sponsored the team every year). We were more enthusiastic than talented, but it was a great opportunity for a group of young mothers to play outdoors and cement friendships. I filled in a variety of positions, including first base, right field, and an occasional inning at pitcher when we were truly desperate. My favorite was the year I played catcher, because both of our regular catchers were pregnant. It was all about teamwork.

Last week I sat in the Gallery at the House session on Tuesday and watched the Republican caucus execute a debate on E2SSB 5278 with great teamwork. The subject of the bill was removing the prohibition on using public funds to finance political campaigns for local office, as imposed by Initiative I-134 in 1992. The Republican team offered 8 amendments, attempting to make a bad bill better by providing guidance to local districts on appropriate rules for such a use of public funds. Here’s an example that was voted down – to require that materials printed with public funds say “Printed with Taxpayer Funds.” Republican members rose to speak, each making a different part of the argument, to no avail. Most interesting was the Democratic response to all arguments, which was that the Legislature shouldn’t micromanage local affairs, and should trust local government to use good judgment. What a great argument for abolishing Growth Management Hearing Boards and letting local government use their own good judgment!

But I digress, today’s subject is team work. Now that we have a clear winner and a gracious second place finisher in the Presidential primary, Republicans have another great opportunity to show our teamwork. We need to pull together for the good of the country as well as the good of the GOP. Whether you supported McCain, Romney, Huckabee or Paul, now is the time for all good Republicans to come to the aid of their party. Many of the Paul supporters are new to the team. We need their idealism and enthusiasm to help us stay on track with our principles regarding the proper role of limited government in American life. On to Minneapolis and success in November!

February 29, 2008

2008-03-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

Below is an article from yesterday’s Olympian. It is the first time since Gregoire’s first year in office that the Democrats are talking openly of raising taxes. The article notes that the state is looking at a $2.4 billion budget gap for the 2009-2011 biennial budget, which is adopted next year. This is similar to the size of the budget deficit the state faced in 2003. That year, the budget was balanced without raising taxes (thanks to Dino Rossi). In 2005, the legislature and governor increased taxes by about $500 million. The argument in 2005 was that increases were necessary to offset revenue losses from a court decision voiding the state’s inheritance tax. As it turned out revenues were spiking and, in retrospect, the tax increase was not needed to balance the budget. Since then, spending has increased by about 33%. Revenues have increased by about 16 or 17% during the same time frame.

A lot will be riding on the economy and which party is in control of the majorities and the Governorship when the budget is written. If the budget projections are accurate (and they usually are) we will have to be on the watch for bills proposing new or increased taxes. We need to make up ground in the legislature and regain the Governorship in 2009. All Republicans need to pull together this year and support our candidates. We need to be the party of leadership, willing to face up to the budget deficit without raising taxes, willing to ask the tough questions and focus on the constitutional priorities of government. We need solid business common sense – in the Governor’s office and in the legislature. It won’t be easy facing up to a budget deficit and facing down the Democrats push for new taxes, but I’m up for the challenge!

Published February 28, 2008

WA House speaker: Taxes possible to shore up next year's budget

CURT WOODWARD

Washington's powerful House speaker has acknowledged the possibility of tax increases to balance next year's state budget, but adds that Democrats want to avoid such a step if possible.

Thursday's comments from Speaker Frank Chopp, D-Seattle, are the strongest signal yet that Democratic leaders think higher taxes could be needed to balance the 2009-2011 budget, which will be written by next year's Legislature.

Chopp's statements also seemed to confirm months of Republican warnings about the need for tax hikes or spending cuts to deal with a looming state deficit, recently pegged by nonpartisan Senate staff at nearly $2.4 billion in the next biennium.

Senate Democrats telegraphed the need for more taxes earlier this week, when they tucked a nearly $10 million liquor tax increase into the Senate's proposed state budget. If approved, the money would be split between substance abuse treatment and drunken driving enforcement programs.

That liquor tax increase may soon come up for a vote in the Senate, but it would need to get support from two-thirds of the Legislature to become law because of the recently passed tax limits in Initiative 960.

Asked Thursday about this year's proposed liquor tax and the prospect for further increases, Chopp declined to rule out higher taxes in 2009, saying he had to withhold judgment until the next budget cycle's economic picture becomes clear.

He then added: "We'd obviously rather not do that. But we've done that in the past when we've had good justification for it, and when we've needed to make investments."

Chopp also said that recent state tax increases - particularly the gas-tax hikes dedicated to road and bridge construction - have been a boon to the overall economy by firing up the construction industry.

"We have literally invested more than the vast majority of other states in these infrastructure projects, on a per capita basis," Chopp said. "And those investments have paid off for the economy."

Asked about Chopp's comments, Senate budget Chairwoman Margarita Prentice, D-Renton, sounded a similar note: "Obviously, we'll take a look at anything. But we'll have to look at the circumstances then."

For Senate GOP budget chief Joseph Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, the acknowledgment that taxes are in the mix for 2009's two-year budget sounded familiar.

Republicans have consistently sent that warning, saying the past four years' 33 percent increase in state spending can't be sustained in a slackening economy.

"The bottom line is, there's two ways to get out of a deficit, and that's to cut spending or to raise taxes. We all know that," Zarelli said. "Our argument has been, let's not get to that decision."

February 24, 2008

2008-03-28T18:51:00.000-07:00

My last blog was printed as a letter to the editor in the Wenatchee World and the Spokesman-Review. The Seattle Times seems to have ignored it. The most interesting response was in the Spokesman Review from a writer in Ferry County, who said (and I quote):

“Ms. Madsen doesn’t want wildlife to be able to move in our area.”

Where in heaven’s name did he get that idea?! I am under no illusion that wildlife give a fig what I think about where they move. Considering the many moose sightings in the metropolitan Spokane River watershed over the last two weeks, the moose seem to be moving around just fine. Common sense tells me the moose, bears, cougars, wolves, deer and elk don’t need a Y2Y Eco-Region sign to tell them where to move.

My critic goes on to say that of course the West Siders are ignoring us because our legislators vote “no.” Voting no on a bad idea is good thing. In fact, it is such a good thing that I am headed to Olympia this week to testify against SB 5318 in front of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. The trick will be putting the case into words the West Siders can understand, since respect for private property rights and common sense doesn’t seem to sway them.

February 18, 2008

2008-03-28T18:50:00.000-07:00

Letter to the Editor (Seattle Times):

Tell our state legislators to vote against Senate Bill 5318. It requires state fish and wildlife officials to establish regulations to protect the Y2Y (Yellowstone to Yukon) Eco-Region. What starts out as merely voluntary usually accumulates regulations. Since this bill would make it mandatory (not voluntary) for fish and wildlife to “do something,” you can bet they will.

Nobody asked the opinion of residents of northeast Washington, yet the proponents claim to want active local participation. Speechifying on the Capitol floor is a bad way to get local input.

When the National Register of Historic Places was first developed, anybody could place a property on the list, without consulting the property owner. The rule was soon changed under pressure from urban populations to require the property owner’s permission to add this special designation to the property. Sometimes it adds restrictions, sometimes the designation is merely honorary or brings with it increased tourism or tax credits, but it is a voluntary designation. Don’t force the Y2Y Eco-Region on our rural areas just because there are fewer residents to complain.

February 10, 2008

2008-03-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

It’s been a long break in the blog stream, and for good reason. I had the honor of traveling to Latvia, Lithuania and Russia with my AgForestry Leadership class on a 2 week “citizen diplomacy” tour at the end of January/early February. Citizen diplomacy means we had a tightly packed schedule of tours and home visits related to agricultural production and processing, local history and culture. I’ll be sharing insights from this trip over the next few weeks.

“It doesn’t matter if you have enough food if you have freedom,” said our guide in Riga. Would we trade second helpings of pizza and hamburgers for freedom?

“2 million people stood in line on August 23, 1989 , holding hands from Estonia through Latvia to Lithuania, demanding the Russians go home,” said our guide in Klaipeda. “The line was supposed to go all around the Baltic Sea, but it wasn’t as important to the Scandinavian countries.” How many Americans take the time to participate in demanding/protecting/appreciating freedom?

“I stood in the line for the Singing Revolution, and my son was at the barricades at the TV station when the Russian tanks rolled in, and his best friend was killed,” said our guide in Vilnius. Are we willing to risk our lives or the lives of our children for freedom?

Freedom is a tangible asset in the Baltic countries of Latvia and Lithuania, not a vague concept suitable for a bumper sticker. They only regained their independence in 1991, after 45 years of Soviet domination. Their sense of national identity survived deportations, collectivization, and brutal suppression by the KGB with the unifying elements of language, culture and songs.

Check out Wikipedia at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singing_Revolution for more details. The Baltic countries have been traded between empires for a thousand years, yet never lost sight of the value of freedom. The United States has stood for a little over 200 years, and we give away pieces of our freedom every day when we turn over responsibility that should rest with the individual to central government. On our last evening in Russia we reflected on lessons learned during the trip. It wasn’t beautiful architecture or good food or productive farms that came at the top of the list – it was the realization that our freedom is so fragile, and we don’t appreciate all that we are blessed with in the United States.

January 21, 2008

2008-03-28T18:47:00.002-07:00

Last Saturday I attended the Stevens County Cattlemen’s Wolf Awareness Meeting in Colville. It drew attendees from all over the 7th District, including one County Commissioner each from Pend Oreille, Ferry and Okanogan counties plus two from Stevens. The fears are real and substantive – loss of livestock and resulting economic loss, reduction in hunting related tourism income, loss of pets, danger to recreationists and those who live in the woods. Although I signed the petition to oppose wolf reintroduction, the wolves are introducing themselves from Canada and Idaho without any human assistance. I rather doubt the wolves will read the petition.

In an environment with no humans, the predator and prey species would reach an equilibrium naturally. We choose to raise livestock (prey) for our own uses, artificially boosting the availability of prey. Therefore, we have a responsibility as good stewards to artificially limit the quantity of predators to match the availability of their natural prey and keep them away from ours.

Wolves have proven themselves capable of surviving and thriving without another predator to counterbalance their population. Without human hunting, they will move aggressively into areas of human habitation. Wolves need to be managed the same way as cougars moving into conflict with humans – by active hunting to teach them where we stand on the food chain.

The economic loss is another big question. Paying ranchers for confirmed wolf kills seems simple, but has flaws. First, Defenders of Wildlife has set unrealistic requirements for precautions to prevent conflict between cattle and wolves. If the requisite lights, whistles and horns have been provided, finding the carcass soon enough to preserve the scene and getting an investigator there as quickly as necessary to have positive confirmation provide additional high hoops to jump through. The hassles and limitations of reimbursement lead directly to “shoot, shovel and shut up” as the best of a batch of bad choices. If the Defenders of Wildlife really want to see wolves active in the wild, they should be paying for numbers of wolves alive instead of numbers of cows dead. Give ranchers a financial incentive to co-exist instead of begrudging them reimbursement for losses. Pay ranchers to manage wolves sustainably on their land, including hunting the ones that develop a taste for beef, horse, lamb, or goat and lose their fear of humans.

I’ll bet some smart producer would take the money and start marketing local, sustainable, free-range, grass fed, wolf friendly beef! If dolphin friendly tuna can become a marketing gimmick, maybe wolves have the same potential. Or maybe not, there’s always that Little Red Riding Hood image and all the bad publicity from Peter and the Wolf performances for children’s music programs. Not quite the same as swimming with dolphins!

January 13, 2008

2008-03-28T18:47:00.001-07:00

We had dinner with my parents last Friday and spent the evening with a Scrabble game going for Mom and I while Craig and Dad sorted a box of maps. There were carefully saved USGS maps of all the hikes and backpacking trips we took when I was a kid. Dad had carefully noted the times and trail conditions, with an occasional comment about the suitability for kids. Mom said they were good maps, and we never got lost. Dad said my sister and I were good hikers - we always made it to the top, even on the steep pitches like the Lake Louise glacier hike when I was 10 and my sister was 7. We were tenacious.

I’ve heard that word a lot this past year by people who have been seeking to define my attitude toward politics and campaigning. Tenacious. I like that word. It describes an attitude of confidence, strength and determination. It also describes knowing where you are going, having a good map and a good plan. We saved all the maps from hikes in the 7th District. Mom suggested a plan for them – frame them and hang them in a future office in Olympia. Not a bad plan, Mom.

January 6, 2008

2008-03-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Blogging took a holiday over Christmas and New Year’s. Many events have occurred, the most important of course being celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, with family and friends. We were able to travel to central Idaho to spend time with Craig’s family over the holidays; our visits there are too few and too short.

On this trip, we also met with a trainer of border collies to interview candidates for the job of replacement for our experienced herd dog, Mac. After she sized us up, she must have decided we were okay folks, and she brought out one of her favorites who has since become ours – Harvey. He is a 2 year old and ready to go, yet with a calm disposition that is well suited to the kind of situations Craig works in on the west side. When we practice agriculture in urban settings, we need a dog who can handle lots of people without getting defensive, who obeys commands promptly and who looks the part of rugged sheep (and goat) dog.

We take our responsibility to care for our animals seriously whether anyone is watching or not, but there is extra pressure when untrained eyes are watching. For urban folks whose primary connection with animals is as pampered companions, livestock handling is a mystery. Mac is starting to show a little “hitch in his git along,” and has earned the right to retire to the farm. He’ll be handling lighter duty with my few head of sheep and enjoying house privileges while Harvey takes over on the road in King County and points west.