Throughout the past year, I have written a lot about how I have witnessed Central Washington come together in times of crisis. The challenges of a global pandemic are certainly unprecedented, but individuals, families, healthcare providers, and local businesses have stepped up to the plate to provide support for our communities.

As we enter the tenth month of the COVID-19 crisis, I find myself looking forward to this Christmas season. Festivities and celebrations will undoubtedly look different, and some traditions and customary gatherings may not be feasible this year – but holiday spirit is just as important as ever.

As the world finds itself, now 8 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes increasingly difficult to find hope in restoring a sense of normalcy.

From turkey and mashed potatoes to parades and football games, there are many family traditions that signify Thanksgiving, but none are as important as the opportunity to reflect on all we have to be grateful for and give thanks.

On November 11, we celebrated Veterans Day to honor the men and women who have served our nation in the Armed Forces. Though this annual day of remembrance and appreciation is an important tribute, the sacrifices our veterans have made in service to their country cannot ever be adequately repaid – certainly not in a singular day. I encourage the people of Central Washington to join me in making the mission of Veterans Day a daily and ongoing practice.

In Central Washington, we understand all-too-well the frustrations that come from feeling like rural communities are being ignored.

Over the past few months, catastrophic wildfires raged – once again – throughout Central Washington and across the West. Smoke blanketed the Pacific Northwest, and whole towns were essentially wiped off the map.