Fed shutdown forces Tri-Cities families to lose paychecks and meals | Opinion

Shutdown hurting Tri-Cities family

The recent government shutdown is more than a political standoff; it’s a hit to hardworking Tri-City families.

Behind every “nonessential service” are parents missing paychecks, children losing meal access, and small businesses waiting for contracts to restart.

I’ve seen the effect this shutdown has had on the Tri-Cities as many families are starting to lose meals and paychecks every single day.

It’s time our officials remember that it’s about serving. Stability should not be a bargaining chip. The people of Tri-City deserve consistent leadership that prioritizes community over conflict.

As almost 18,000 Tri-Cities workers are working for the federal government or a contractor. As 1-in-6 Tri-Cities families rely on SNAP food stamp benefits to make ends meet and have food on the table these SNAP food benefits are gonna run out with the government not funding them.

The government needs to see what this shutdown is causing as many families are starting to run out of food and money to support their families.

Mayce Davis, Kennewick

Benton District 4 thanks its voters

As a fire commissioner for Benton County Fire District 4, I want to remind residents that our budget process is public, and your participation matters.

The district is governed by a Board of Fire Commissioners elected by the community. Like me, board members are residents who volunteer to help ensure the district operates efficiently, transparently, and in the best interest of those we serve.

Board meetings are open to the public and held at Station 420 (2604 Bombing Range Rd.) on the first and third Thursdays at 5 p.m. We welcome residents to attend, ask questions and take part in the conversation about your fire and emergency medical services.

Right now, we are working to address rising costs while maintaining the level of service our community expects. Essential expenses have increased sharply in recent years — fuel up 92%, technology and cybersecurity 94% and 911 dispatch services 78% — all of which affect daily operations.

Despite these pressures, the district maintains a balanced budget and has not asked voters for a tax increase in three years.

As we plan ahead, we will consider responsible funding options to support reliable emergency response. Please join us at an upcoming meeting to learn more.

Garrett Goodwin, West Richland

Holiday Blues: You’re not alone

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to joyful traditions — children writing wish lists, festive gatherings and reconnecting with loved ones. Yet for others, this time of year can bring stress, sadness or a sense of isolation. For individuals impacted by crime, the holidays may be especially difficult.

Changes such as relocation, financial strain, disrupted family dynamics or court proceedings can alter cherished traditions and increase emotional burden. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that it’s okay to set boundaries. Declining invitations, creating new traditions or sticking to a modest budget can help ease the pressure.

Homemade gifts or simple exchanges can be just as meaningful. Prioritize your well-being — physically, emotionally and spiritually. Rest, take walks, listen to music or talk with someone you trust. Acknowledge your feelings, and don’t hesitate to accept support.

If you’re struggling this season, you’re not alone. The Support, Advocacy and Resource Center (SARC) is available 24/7 at 509-374-5391 to offer help, hope, and healing.

Anna Hahn, Kennewick

Complacency aids others’ evil acts

President Donald Trump performs significant evil acts. He violates the Constitution, murders foreign nationals for suspected drug-running without exercising due process, fires federal employees without just cause and with malice based on retribution, pardons felons who support his illegal causes, etc. Don’t expect any future limits.

Congressional Republicans are complicit, in that they either support Trump’s evil acts — as like Rep. Dan Newhouse — or allow him to proceed because they support the objectives of Project 2025.

Congress is failing to comply with the provisions of the 25th Amendment to remove Trump, although he violates the Constitution and performs unlawful acts against U.S. citizens and foreign nationals. He is the convicted felon who carries out their objectives.

The Supreme Court is performing evil acts when its Republican majority allows Trump’s evil acts to prevail. They circumvent the Constitution to allow Trump and Republicans to execute the objectives of Project 2025.

U.S. citizens satisfied with their current personal well-being and who allow complacency to overtake patriotism are supporting the evil that has destroyed our democratic government. Their inaction and/or continued voting for Republicans is aiding evil.

Don’t trust the Democrats to solve national problems other than ending evil government; but that is our best choice for the return of government by the people and for the people.

Jim Tow, Richland