The Klickitat County News, Goldendale, WA., December 20, 1934, page 5

POOR FARM CONTROVERSY
Lumijarvi Explains Original Statement Regarding the County Farm at Cliffs

                                                                                    Centerville, Dec. 17, 1934

Editor, Klickitat County News
Goldendale, Washington
Dear Sir:

            In last week's issue of The News I read a report of the committee appointed by the taxpayers league to investigate conditions at the County farm.  The remarks I made concerning the poor farm sometime ago, were formed from my own opinions and have evidently caused some offense, so I wish to make an explanation as to how I formed my conclusions.
            The trip to the County Farm was purely a result of my curiosity.  The disappointment was caused at my not finding this place as I had pictured it to be in my mind.  Being as it is, is so far removed from the beaten paths of travel, I felt that isolated was the best descriptive word of the location.  It is like coming to the end of the trail; nothing to do but retrace your steps.  In truth it is the end of the trail for many.
            The remark regarding the lack of modern conveniences was occasioned by not finding a modern lighting system, for instance.  After being surrounded with these conveniences one is forced to admit that their availability results in a greater feeling of contentment.  I have other reasons also for believing that some of the inmates are discontented, but cannot state them publicly.
            From a casual survey of the place I could not see much invisible income from the farm.  Possibly with an abundance of water and heavily fertilizing it could be made very productive.  As to the inmates being mistreated and not being served any good, wholesome food, I made no such statement, not being in a position to do so.
            Besides well acquainted with the personnel of the investigating committee, I have the greatest respect for their truthfulness and feel that no one should doubt their statements as regards courteous treatment, good dinner, plenty of available houses, etc.
            I am not dismayed at the criticism, neither do I glory in the favorable comments of my article occasioned.  In writing about the farm I was aiming at no one in particular and was influenced in no way to do so.  It was just my way of saying that in my opinion the present farm is a white elephant on the hands of Klickitat county.

Respectfully,

(Signed) MARTIN LUMIJARVI