In gratitude

Andrew Ridge was born in New Braunfels, Texas, on March 28, 1984. He died doing what he loved — flying helicopters — in East Wenatchee on Tuesday. Andrew left us far too early, but he lived with an undying curiosity and zest for life that gave him experience and wisdom far beyond his 28 years. He tried out life like he tried on shirts — when one role didn’t feel right, he would try something else, until he found one that fit. He found his fit in a passion for flying, and he pursued it with a fierce determination and an inner strength that led to his certification as a commercial helicopter pilot and instructor.

Andrew had many great passions in his life — his family, his love of flying, and the love of his life, Sarah Treanor. He would go anywhere and do anything for a friend, and would lend comfort and a wisdom borne of his life experiences to those in need. If he wasn’t in the cockpit of a helicopter, he could often be found in the outdoors, on his mother’s property in Seguin or his father’s in San Angelo. He was a good, loyal, and fair man, and will be greatly missed by many.

His parents join in thanking the kind people of East Wenatchee and Wenatchee, who cared for and comforted him so soon after the accident. To them we send our love and eternal thanks. To all of Andrew’s many friends, we can only say that we can all remember that great smile, that way of attacking life head-on with optimism and a curious and open mind, and that great and caring heart that we will miss so much.

Douglas B. Ridge

On behalf of the parents

and family of Andrew Ridge,

Austin, Texas

For Hawkins

I support Brad Hawkins for state representative, 12th District. As a 20-year employee of the Eastmont School District, I first had the opportunity to become acquainted with Brad Hawkins through his commitment to our district as a board member and president. While serving our schools and community, he used his multitude of skills as an organized, efficient and knowledgeable leader. Our district was in a financial crisis. Brad spent countless hours, outside of his role on the board, to seek input from the school employees, parents and community members. I can speak personally to Brad’s willingness to listen. Brad continued to serve our district and helped lead us to solid fiscal ground with replenished cash reserves, by reducing spending and maintaining important programs.

Brad was raised in our valley and graduated from Wenatchee High School. After continuing his education he returned to Wenatchee to marry and raise his family. Maintaining the qualities that we love about this area and serving this community are his motivation to run for this position.

Brad is no stranger to the legislative process. He served as a staff member in Olympia in the House of Representatives and as an intern in the Washington Senate during multiple sessions. I encourage you to log on to his website at www.bradhawkins.org to learn more about his energy and experience.

Brad Hawkins is prepared to successfully serve our 12th District.

ReeAnn Williams

East Wenatchee

Wishy-washy all

What happened to politicians actually taking a side on something? I’m so tired of everyone being so wishy washy. All they ever do is try to be middle-of-the-road kinds of people, and end up flip-flopping on the issues at heart. It gets so old hearing them try to please both sides. I don’t care if you’re Republican or Democrat, but at least stand up for what you believe in and stop trying to please everyone. I would be more willing to vote for someone if they were honest and just told us how it is. I’m sick of both presidential candidates trying to be the middle-of-the-road guy. I’m at the point I don’t care to vote for either one. What happened to the presidents of the past who actually had an opinion and stuck with it? What happened to people actually having an opinion and not just trying to please people to get votes?

Nickolas Riker

Wenatchee

Think of health

In a recent article concerning the Colville Tribe (The Wenatchee World, June 7), I read where a $193 million settlement has been reached with the government, which is great.

Then another article mentions the poor health of Colville tribal members and how a dedicated tribal member, Andy Joseph Jr., is trying to get improved programs for the Colville and other Native Americans in our country (The World, June 9).

In the settlements article the council is trying to figure out how to allocate the money. It does seem with unemployment being what it is, each tribal member should have a fair share. When the amount is agreed upon, set aside a percentage for restoration of forests and natural resources, but not the 80 percent being considered.

The well-being of the tribal members should be of prime importance. Help Mr. Joseph and his goal of improved medical care for the tribal members and set aside at least 50 percent of the settlement to provide for their health needs.

Barbara Pittman

Wenatchee

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