Secretary Of State Visits Waitsburg

WAITSBURG - After more than 40 years work- ing in Washington State government, 23 of which as an elected official, Sec- retary of State Sam Reed is ready to retire. But before his replacement is sworn in on Jan. 16 next year, Reed took one last tour of the state he spent his career serving.

Reed toured the Bruce Mansion Wednesday, Sept. 12, during his visit to Waitsburg and said small towns are often underap- preciated.

Reed said his experi- ence in the political system gave him an appreciation for everyone who is part of it.

"I came out of (time in office) impressed with the overall quality of elect- ed officials," Reed said. "They're dedicated hellip; even though I don't always agree with them."

Retirement won't be all leisure, as Reed has already been recruited to be a Harvard Fellow.

Reed said he would give a series of seminars at Har- vard University talking to students about what it's re- ally like to work in politics.

"It's a big honor," Reed said. "I'm pleased to be asked."

Reed said he also signed an agreement with Wash- ington State University to set up a Sam Reed Distinguished Professorship.

Reed said he hopes to spend his retirement with his two young grandsons and playing tennis with his wife. He said he also will visit a cabin on Lake Wenatchee that his family owns.