A minority of islanders choose ignorance over understanding and wish to make those voting “no” to any more taxes feel ashamed or guilty. Many islanders have already left because of a failed economy and have given up on their dreams of living here. Businesses have closed their doors and employers who remain fortunate enough to keep their doors open have cut hours, for example Country Corner and Island Hardware. There is no joy in voting no, it is not win or lose but necessity they base their decision on. Groceries, fuel and rent for those who work hard for a living are already inflated in comparison to wages, and continue to inflate while wages continue in the other direction. Our economy was not caused by those who get vilified for trying to live within their means but by a government which doesn’t, and if you wish to apply guilt apply it to those responsible and not to those who aren’t. Turn your comments to those who put us in an illegal war, blame those who believe living beyond their means is the American dream.

My wife and I moved here when the island celebrated their diversity, but when my wife went to the senior center she heard a comment that “If you can’t afford to live here you should move” and then that person went on to say “Especially the illegals that can’t speak English.” Those standing around remained silent and complacent until one person, my wife, spoke up. Like so many times, it takes only one to speak up before others finally join in. Well, our voice still remains with our vote and if the economy is the problem make those responsible feel the guilt. Those who vote no, such as myself and the majority of voters should not have the burden of guilt that you so easily apply and we will continue to say no until the economy turns around. This paper has mentioned the homeless increasing and our local food bank seeing an increase in those who need their service, so your ignorance is by choice. It is up to us to bring back the American Dream that if you work hard you will succeed and tell those responsible we will no longer be silent. If you wish to continue writing letters, send them to those responsible.

John Cook

Orcas Island