What’s the real story on earmarks, those amendments or notes attached to spending bills in Congress, and what they’ve done for Washington state? Pick up a copy of Seattle Weekly, Oct. 13-19 at Enumclaw City Hall or possibly the library. You can’t miss the “picture” of Patty Murray on the front. Or go to news@seattleweekly.com.

According to Alan Schreiber, a WSU agriculture-researcher-turned-Pasco-farmer and conservative-leaning eastern Washington voter, a vote for Patty Murray is a good thing. Writer Laura Onstot goes on to give many examples of the good that comes from these local earmarks.

Contrary to what Dino Rossi may say, there has been transparency in earmarks since 2006. They are sponsored by name and listed on legislators websites. The Taxpayers for Common Sense website lists all earmarks since 2008.

The majority of Patty Murray’s earmarks have been relatively small, several hundred thousands of dollars not millions of dollars. About 82 percent have benefitted local groups throughout the state that can’t afford lobbyists or political donations. Is that working for the “little people” or what?

After reading the article, wonder why you would vote for a nationally unknown politician like Dino Rossi who will spend his term learning the ropes in the other Washington versus a proven senator like Patty Murray who can hit the ground running on Day One, 2011, and continue to work for this Washington as well as for America.

Sharon Sawhill

Enumclaw