Museum at Keewaydin is worth preserving. We should save it | Opinion

Keewaydin is vital and worth saving

We are asking the city of Kennewick to save the Museum at Keewaydin.

As 45-year residents, our deep commitment to Kennewick prompts this urgent concern regarding the proposed city hall plans, which would drastically shrink the museum from 5,000 square feet to just 500 square feet. A 90% reduction is not a relocation; it is a dismantling. A room smaller than a two-car garage cannot adequately preserve our history.

The museum is vital for several reasons:

• Global historical significance: As the discovery site of Kennewick Man (The Ancient One), our region deserves a robust, dedicated space to educate global visitors.
• Educational foundation: Stripping 4,500 square feet eliminates essential space for school field trips, interactive exhibits, and youth education.
• Safeguarding physical archives: Most historical artifacts, photographs, and textiles will be locked away or lost, breaking a promise to the families who donated them.
• Economic and tourism draw: A vibrant museum drives downtown revitalization and cultural tourism, boosting local businesses.
• Civic pride: Our history informs the future.

Civic progress should not erase our heritage. We urge the City Council to reconsider and integrate a dignified, properly sized museum space into the new development.

Murray Kuhns and Brad Kuhns, Kennewick

Who’s telling the truth?

I understand that Trump endorsed Jerrod Sessler two years ago. Sessler lost to Dan Newhouse anyway. Now Trump has endorsed Amanda McKinney, but Sessler is still running and claiming to have Trump’s endorsement. Who’s talking truth or is it spinning untruth?

I recently asked a Sessler campaign worker to provide evidence of the endorsement, allegedly from Dec. 9, 2024.

He told me it can be seen in a Sessler online video, but only a portion of it, not the entire text of the endorsement. Not a big surprise. I’ve noticed that, Sessler is a pro at using the tiniest bit of fact to fabricate the biggest-sounding propaganda.

A small-time race car driver from decades ago who has no known headline checkered-flag finishes, who has no elected office experience of any kind, whose sum total record of community service as a volunteer or supporter of nonprofit organizations such as food banks, homeless shelters, Girl Scouts, right-to-life groups or the like is unknown or zero.

He has not provided any references from prior employment or educational institutions from which he received college degrees. He says he’s a rancher while personally eschewing it (for health reason) any food that contains beef, pork, dairy products, tree or vine fruit, and vegetables that are not organically grown.

Candidate Sessler has failed to assert any relevant life experiences that would qualify him as an electable member of Congress for the 4th District in Washington state.

Yet, he’s trying to slide into a MAGA home plate on Trump’s coattails, not realizing they’ve already been yanked. Why should I believe Sessler’s word that an unverified 2-year-old endorsement is still valid? Sessler is a former small-time race car driver with the pedal-to-the-metal heading to a what I expect will be a three-time loser finish.

John Trumbo, Kennewick councilman and lifelong Republican

Schram good for Walla Walla sheriff

I proudly endorse Richard Schram for Walla Walla sheriff.

Schram is a natural-born leader, and I’m very fortunate to work alongside him. He’s a strong communicator, a kind and empathetic man, and a man of his word. His dedication to this agency and upholding the rights of the communities we serve is unmatched.

When Schram sees a problem, he develops a realistic solution and addresses any challenges thrown his way in a professional manner that reflects the agency’s core values. I’ve personally observed Schram leading with thoughtfulness and intention all while taking the communities concerns into account. He is truly the beating heart of this agency.

Just two years into my law enforcement career, I cannot imagine working anywhere else largely because of the culture Schram has helped build within this agency. He goes out of his way to support and show appreciation for me and my colleagues. Schram genuinely cares about every member of this agency and encourages us to be the very best we can be for the communities we serve.

I have no doubt that he will continue to lead with integrity, care, and professionalism as the next Walla Walla County Sheriff.

Lauren Parks, Pasco, Patrol Deputy, WWSO

Proud to vote for Schram for sheriff

I am proud to endorse Richard Schram for sheriff. I first met Richard in 2022 when I became interested in working for the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office. From our first interaction, it was clear he was the kind of leader who is hard to find.

During my time with the Sheriff’s Office, I had the privilege of being mentored by Richard. He leads by example every day, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, servant leadership and a genuine commitment to both his deputies and the community. He sets a high standard and inspires those around him to do the same.

While attending training and law enforcement events throughout Washington, I was often asked if Richard was truly as good to work for as his reputation suggested. I was always proud to answer yes. Richard leads without ego, stays involved with the Patrol Division, and is committed to the health of the agency. He also makes time to attend community events and is always looking for ways to strengthen relationships with the people we serve.

Richard has the experience, education and character to be an outstanding Sheriff. I encourage the voters of Walla Walla County to support Richard Schram for Sheriff.

Seth Hansen, Kennewick