In Tribute to and Remembrance of Don Harkins

 I was very sad to hear about this loss - to all of us - of a major truth-sayer, one of the true heroes of our times.  
 
I began subscribing to the Idaho Observer some years ago, recognizing it as one of the few real newspapers still published in America.  Occasionally, I would call the newspaper to check on an issue or place an order, and gradually got to know Don and Ingri through these calls.  
 
In 2005, Don wrote me a personal letter thanking me for the work I had done in Sacramento in helping to see that a Resolution in opposition to the Patriot Act  was passed by the Sacramento City Council http://www.bordc.org/detail.php?id=92 .  I posted Don’s inspiring letter on my wall and it remains there today.  
 
About three years ago, at a 9/11 Truth conference in Chicago I saw a stack of Idaho Observers on a table in an open area of the hotel where the conference  was being held.  I struck up a conversation with the lady at the table, and was happy to learn that I was speaking with Ingri Cassel, who I recalled from our phone conversations.   A few moments later, a pleasant-appearing man approached; we introduced ourselves, and sure enough, it was Don Harkins!    We all then shared the joy of actually meeting one another face-to-face, and Don and I engaged in a brief and stimulating conversation, sharing ideas and creative concepts.  
 
Meeting Don and Ingri on this occasion is for me a treasured memory. I have described this meeting many times to friends, mentioning the special warmth, understanding and inspiration that Don and Ingri projected in person.  
 
Every month I looked forward to reading Don’s observations in his editorials and articles, and will sincerely miss his commentary.  Don told it as he saw it - forthrightly and courageously.  He was a man of integrity, committed to the truth and - caring deeply about the human condition - he shared his deep knowledge and insights, borne of much research, with many others.  He will always be an inspiration to those of us who carry on this important work. 
 
Thoughts and prayers are with you, Ingri.