People of principle
Dear Editor:
America is still a great country, despite our openly racist and profoundly sexist president and a Republican party that fosters and condones his behavior. Marching at the Women’s March in Omak was one reminder. Seeing reports of similar, much-larger marches across the country was another.
Another reminder, almost unimaginable just a few years ago, took place on Jan. 13 at West Point military academy. Two male officers — both Apache helicopter pilots — were married in the chapel. That’s what I call “the real sound of freedom,” not the noise of their helicopters. (Followers of the Methownet bulletin board know what I’m referring to here.)
Until recently, the 24-year-old “don’t ask, don’t tell” rule was our national policy on gays in the military. Now we can just move on with allowing basic human rights to prevail. Or, as ultra-conservative senator Barry Goldwater once said: “I don’t care if they are gay or straight as long as they can shoot straight.” That should have been obvious, common sense all along. Unfortunately it wasn’t.
We have already seen a government shutdown this month. At issue among other things are basic human rights, including our willingness to accept people of different beliefs and ethnicity. The party in power opposes these principles. A majority of good, American people (including many Republicans) support them. I am proud that the Methow has shown itself to be filled with these good people.
Randy Brook, Twisp
Other plumbers
Dear Editor:
Thank you for the Jan. 24 article on the Methow Investment Network. We’d like to make one small correction: the article implies that, because Dwight Filer “was the only plumber available in the Methow Valley who focused entirely on service and repairs” (as opposed to new construction), his successor will also be unique in that capacity. Such is not the case. Both Thor Johnson (High Mountain Plumbing) and Russ Thomas (Columbia Cascade Plumbing) have done excellent work at our house.
Steve and Anne Peck, Winthrop
A great time
Dear Editor:
A fun night at the “Dance the Night Away” party was had by all. There was great entertainment, food, decorations, dancing and much camaraderie. It was a way to “get people out of the house” this winter.
Many thanks to Kirsten and all her wonderful volunteers, Methow Valley Community Center, and Cascadia for hosting. Thanks also to Terry Hunt and his fine group of musicians, which included Laura Love, Nancy Zahn and The Family Dog band.
Betty Wagoner, Twisp
