This is an open letter is to the voters, residents and business owners of Maple Valley.

Apparently there has been a whisper campaign against me recently in Maple Valley. Guess what, I did file a personal bankruptcy earlier this year. What you don’t know is why. This letter isn’t about making excuses but about sharing the facts.

I worked for T-Mobile for over 13 years making a great salary and receiving amazing benefits. Five years ago, my husband, Michael, who also worked for T-Mobile, decided to follow the American dream of owning his own business. He left his job, took courses and opened Pinnacle Home Inspections. After two years in business, working hard to save money so I could also follow the dream of self employment, I left my job and we purchased a franchise, EnviroSpect Northwest.

Shortly after opening the business our franchisor closed their doors due to the failing economy, leaving us without the benefits and support we paid for and expected. The eight months of reserves we had diligently set aside very quickly diminished leaving us in a bad situation. When you own a business you have to take risks, sometimes they pan out and sometimes they don’t.

It isn’t about not being able to manage a budget or balance a checkbook.

Now I am not telling this to you to gain your sympathy but to tell you that I know first hand what it is like to face adversity and struggle during the tough economy, not too much unlike so many Americans.

Golden said, “The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work” and that is what I have done and what I pledge to do for our community. This experience gives me a unique perspective and makes me a better candidate for City Council. The silver lining in the story is that we have adjusted and adapted to this economy and we were able to keep our business which is stronger than ever, our house and transportation were also saved through the process.

Each of us is only one decision, one major medical problem or unexpected loss away from losing everything. It isn’t about getting knocked down, it’s about getting back up.

I will walk through Maple Valley with my head held high knowing that my experience does not define me. I find comfort and solace in taking attention off myself and directing my time, talents and efforts to helping our community and others. I hope you want a leader who has been through adversity who has walked in your shoes and understands your challenges.

During all of this I have been a proven leader for the Maple Valley Chamber of Commerce as president leading from the front. I have also been a community contributor for several local organizations and spent the last weekend walking 60 miles in the quest for the cure of breast cancer in the 3-Day.

As you can see I am not a politician and I am not perfect. I am, however, a mom, wife, grandmother, homeowner, business owner and tax payer. I am just a real person, working hard to bring this community together and serve the residents in the manor they should expect. I am saddened to see that this campaign turned negative and personal. I can only hope that people will see through the political rhetoric and see me for who I am and how I will represent you.

Karen Crowe

Maple Valley