EJ has been through his trials and errors – like we all have. He grew up poor and tripped a time or two but he didn’t let that hold him back. He stayed focused on school, sports and the Army as a way to work himself through childhood challenges.

The thing that impresses me the most about EJ is that he’s truthful, accountable and courageous, qualities I can get behind in a leader.

Knowing what the right thing is and having the courage to do it are two different things. EJ’s the kind of person who will study the pluses and minuses and then take the risk.

He did that when he first became chairman of the Robinson Rancheria. At the time, things were pretty bad. But EJ was up for the job. He showed courage when he took a stand to reverse previous disenrollments of members. It was a daring thing to do, not everybody was on board with it. But it was the right thing to do and he got it done.

When I think about EJ I think of the saying, “ain’t no shame in his game.” EJ does what’s right and doesn’t worry so much what others will say about him.

Seems to me we have a chance to elect a leader who will do what’s right – even if he has to take a risk and maybe get criticized.

I want that kind of leader so I’m voting for EJ Crandell for supervisor.

Terri Rave lives in Nice, Calif.