Metiva shouldn’t be slighted

I have worked with and interacted with both Marty and Cheryl Metiva since they arrived in Wasilla a few years ago.

I know them both on professional and personal levels. I have seen the time and effort they put into making this community better. I know that one of their personal criteria for accepting and continuing in a job is that it makes a positive difference in the community. It just so happens they found more such opportunities in the nonprofit sector. I have seen each of them individually step up to the plate and take on community issues and events requiring action when no one else could or would.

They both have done phenomenal jobs in their current positions and, in my opinion, have more than earned their paychecks. Considering their individual qualifications, I’m sure both of them could make more money in the private sector than they do now.

Although they understand that being in the political arena makes their private lives public, it is always disappointing when information is taken out of context or without explanation and used to tarnish their efforts and intentions unjustly.

By his own admission, Mr. Newman (”Profit or nonprofit?,” Oct. 21) has never personally known anyone who was active in nonprofit organizations. What other source of expertise has he drawn upon to make derogatory remarks and inferences about the Metivas? If he has concerns about the Metivas’ financial situation, has he spoken to Marty to get an explanation?

Not only is Marty a candidate for Wasilla mayor, but he has also been a Wasilla city councilman for three years. He accepts inquiries from the public all the time, and I’m sure would be happy to address Mr. Newman’s concerns if they were presented to him.

I know both the Metivas have spent much time considering the outcome of the mayoral election and its ramifications. They are aware of the importance of appearances and are firm believers in the transparency of government at all levels. Accordingly, they will do what they feel is right.

Perhaps Mr. Newman has been jaded by other less-scrupulous people and politicians. It’s not often that someone as decent and ethical as Marty Metiva will brave the challenges of local politics. I am thankful that he has. If there were more Marty Metivas in this world, we’d all be better off.

Vicki Wehe

Wasilla