Frequently, while my cross-country/track and field distance runners at Cascade High School have been running in the gym on dark, rainy mornings prior to the start of school, we will find Mike Wilson teaching a student or staff member the techniques of fly-fishing. “Keep the tip of the rod between 10 and 2 o’clock,” I’d hear him say as he whipped the pole back and gracefully cast the line toward the center of the gymnasium.
All the years I’ve known Mike, he has always been an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hiking or simply exploring the wonders of the Pacific Northwest. Following a weekend camping trip, Mike often comes back to school with stories about herds of elk he’s seen in the high Cascades, chinook salmon running one of the “ish” rivers, or night skies blanketed with twinkling stars.
Mike has always been a natural resource advocate. He understands the need for balance between conservation and recreation. Go camping with Mike and you’ll hear — “Leave this campsite better than you found it!” He believes in keeping the environment clean and leaving nothing behind.
Mike will be a strong advocate for environmentalists. He understands the connection between our natural world and concern for the environment. Consequently, the Sierra Club, as well as the Washington Conservation Voters endorses him.
Growing up on a farm in Selah, Washington, led Mike to his appreciation for our rich natural resources. His family practiced sustainable living. In other words, they produced their own food.
Now, it sounds to me like we could use a firm hand in Olympia, a person who wants to leave this state, as well as our parks, better than they found it. Perhaps all politicians should be fly-fishermen. Either way, casting your vote for Mike Wilson as state representative of the 44th District has benefits for all of us!
Steve K. Bertrand
Everett
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