Letter to the Editor

I read Eric Maier’s editorial (4-19-12 edition of The Record) and I agree with him. I think there are a few points that could be added to the list of items he stressed. All a person has to do is look at the history of Eastern Washington and we see that our railroads became a part of our lives because of the need to ship farm products. These products, when sold, brought new money into the towns. This money was spent, and the cycle of money created more jobs.

This still happens today, as farmers’ needs for their farming operations put money back into the communities. These same farmers pay large sums of money in taxes that support our schools, roads, cemeteries etc. Their taxes make up a large portion of the money that is raised, while they are a small percentage of the voters.

Another important fact is that, because the number of farms has decreased, the federal government often sees them as not being as important as they were 50 years ago. The Grange was a very vocal voice 50 years ago but they lost membership, and their voice is not as loud in Washington D.C.! Our nation is facing stern financial problems and cuts must be made! If we don’t speak up for the agriculture community, there is a chance that Congress will see them as an area for more cuts.

The squeaky wheel gets the grease!

Gerald W. Ray

Spokane