Kent Vander Kamp for sheriff

I support Kent Vander Kamp for county sheriff because he clearly demonstrates competence, sound judgment and a strong posture of civic responsibility.

His opponent, William Bailey, no doubt has good qualities but he has willingly accepted the endorsement of retiring Sheriff Shane Nelson. Normally, this would be a mark in his favor. But Nelson, who comes across as a bully, has been involved in costly conflicts with subordinates and who I think has involved himself in unethical partisanship in the current campaign by mounting an unjustified smear campaign against Van Der Kamp — at county expense. If Bailey had the sense to decline Nelson’s endorsement or put more distance between himself and Nelson, he might have warranted a second look. But the prospect of continuing Nelson’s controlling, vindictive and costly management style, disqualifies him.

Deschutes County needs Kent Van Der Kamp for sheriff.

— Eileen Harrington, Bend

An eerie feeling

Is beginning to creep up again just as it did in 2016 leading up to November 8th with Hillary Clinton losing the Electoral College election to Donald Trump despite a victory by 2.9 million votes in the popular count. And all that with Hillary having a prediction by Fivethirtyeight polls of 71.4% over the 28.6 for Trump. That election night, which was to be a celebration of American democracy, instead became that “hangover” month after. Conclusion was that Hillary was extremely qualified but not a good communicator. And she was a woman!

Fast forward to today, just a few days before we choose a president again. Kamala Harris, extremely well prepared academically and professionally having entered the contest with tremendous energy, joy and a great performance on the only debate, almost immediately assumed the lead. The polls pointed to a possible victory in electoral and popular votes, albeit by much smaller difference than 2016. The positive assessment was likely due to several of the battle ground states leaning toward Kamala and Tim Walz. But as so often the case, polls cannot be as accurate as the actual votes. So many variables. Trump’s attacks, this time more vicious and untethered to reality as ever may actually pick up disenfranchised voters. And Kamala’s with support by African American men and Latinos waning, has seen polls tightening and hence this eerie feeling.

And considering Kamala being black and a woman, can racism and sexism combined still be a lethal combination in this country?

— Carlos “Charlie” Wysling, Bend

It’s a wonderful time for a beer

Here we are in November already! We’ve celebrated fresh hop season, hoisted our steins to Oktoberfest, and now, a hearty cheers to a month of celebrating the Bend Ale Trail. There’s no better time to celebrate an iconic industry that can use our support. Between the lingering effects of the pandemic, the rising cost of ingredients, supply chain issues, and attempts to raise beer taxes, our beloved industry has taken a beating.

You don’t have to be a native Oregonian to grasp the significance of beer here. According to the Oregon Brewers Guild, Oregon is home to about 400 breweries, brewpubs and taprooms, creating 50,000 jobs and generating close to $9 billion in economic activity for the state.

But don’t let these large, impressive numbers fool you — they don’t represent “big business.” Most members of Oregon’s craft alcohol community are small, independent companies that have invested their lives into creating something unique and beloved in our communities. We are local businesses that provide jobs, contribute to tourism, and play a vital role in the cultural fabric of Oregon.

All points above combined with the fact that this industry is the third largest source of revenue in Oregon at $17 billion, it’s hard to believe there are still legislators who want to increase taxes on beer. Our government officials should be supporting an industry vital to our state’s identity and economy and the thousands of Oregonians employed by it, not using us as a punching bag.

Oregon beer is a state treasure. Set off on the Bend Ale Trail this month and taste the riches of our roots. Together we can preserve and protect it!

— Kevin Caranna, Bend

Editor’s Note

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