The American experiment is essentially this: can we the people be trusted to govern ourselves? Throughout our history the answer has been yes, we can. But self-governance takes work and it requires leaders. Leaders to help us confront issues and work out answers so that we may make good decisions for ourselves.

Lovel has a rare combination of talents that make her an excellent leader for these times. She is very organized and thoughtful, inclusive and collaborative in her approach, and she is a proven problem-solver.

I was first exposed to Lovel’s extraordinary capabilities when working with the Grange on a difficult issue. She was able to clarify the disparate opinions and distill them into clear options. When we got bogged down in talk and worry she would have a proposal or resolution to keep us moving. She had a way of gently pushing the agenda forward to get us from thought to action.

These talents would be good to have on the County Council.

Recent oil supply shocks and the convulsions of the credit crunch illustrate just how quickly things can change. Such times call for leaders who can respond intelligently to new conditions, rather than glib politicians with predetermined answers. Lovel has a demonstrated ability to work with people to find solutions where none are obvious, and to lead them to constructive action.

So vote for Lovel if you haven’t already!

>b>Roger Ellison
Friday Harbor