Support the parks

As we approach Mount Rainier’s 120th birthday (March 2), I want to thank 8th District Congresswoman Kim Schrier for cosponsoring HR 1225 — Restore Our Parks and Public Lands Act, along with the lead sponsor 6th District Congressman Derek Kilmer.

This legislation has bipartisan support and would direct dependable multi-year funding to help address the nearly $12 billion infrastructure repair backlog that faces the National Park System — $398 million of that total comes from the 15 national parks here in Washington state.

Taking care of our parks must be a priority. By investing in and fixing our parks we are investing in our local economies, our history and what makes Washington such a great place to live and raise a family.

I urge the rest of the Washington Congressional Delegation and all of Congress to join representatives Schrier and Kilmer to fix our parks.

Colette Dow

Issaquah

Clean energy possible

Throughout my entire life I have found redemption in the great outdoors. When my Dad found a way to connect with his kids, he bought camping equipment and took us outdoors.

I’m very concerned about the effects of climate change, and I am encouraged to see climate action being elevated in Olympia and in Washington D.C. It’s time we pass solutions that move us into the clean energy economy we deserve.

A 100-percent clean energy economy is a practical way to address climate change, and it will have long term benefits for our economy, our people and the natural world that makes Washington state so special. Polling conducted after November’s elections shows Washingtonians overwhelmingly support action to address climate change and to increase clean energy use. Voters who want climate action but rejected I-1631 support 100-percent clean energy policy by a 2-1 margin.

I urge Sen. Mark Mullet, Rep. Lisa Callan, Rep. Bill Ramos to make a 100-percent clean energy future a reality today. You’ll have my support.

Gloria Hatcher-Mays

Renton