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(Editor’s Note: Views and commentary, including statements made as fact are strictly those of the letter writers.)
Thank You!!
Valley Girls Quilt Show Committee would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to those members of our community who have helped us expand out quilt show to be bigger and better this year! We couldn’t do it without you!
A Special thanks to: Bigfoot Printing and Copy, LLC, Cave Junction, Iv Quilters, Cave Junction, Country Quilts in Jacksonville, Jordan Fabrics, Grants Pass, Illinois Valley News, Cave Junction, City of Cave Junction, Haley Aranzubia for designing our flyer, Sharon from Benchmark Physical Therapy, Cave Junction, Doc Stitches, Grants Pass, Country Register, Sights and Sound Unlimited, Inc., Grants Pass
In addition, there are so many behind the scenes volunteers for various duties before, during and after the show. That includes the groups that we support this year!
Thank you to all,
Valley Girls Quilt Show Committee
Cave Junction
Commissioner West and “Commander” Barnett
I recently read of the connection between Commissioner West and candidate Chris Barnett, who presents himself as “Commander” on his Realty Executives page. As a retired Army officer who commanded a company, this title caught my attention.
I checked Barnett’s credentials and found that he is a retired Chief Master Sergeant from the Oregon Air National Guard, a senior non-commissioned officer rank (E-8). While this is a respected position within the enlisted ranks, it’s distinct from the role of a commissioned officer, who typically holds leadership positions such as Lieutenant Colonel. In the Air Force, the term “Commander” is generally associated with a commissioned officer rank, such as O-5, and carries specific command authority.
It appears Barnett is using a title that may give the impression of being a commissioned officer, which he is not. As someone who earned the privilege of commanding an Army Company and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, I hold honesty, transparency, and integrity in the highest regard. These values were fundamental to my military service and are equally important in public service.
Does Chris Barnett uphold these same values? Is this the leadership Josephine County deserves?
Lieutenant Colonel Charles “Bill” Ertel,
Retired U.S. Army
Williams, Ore.