Moving on stronger after DUI charge | Letter

At some point in our lifetimes some of us may make that one big mistake or really bad decision that might result in some type of life-changing event. After years of denial, I experienced that life-changing event earlier this year when I was charged with driving under the influence. I thank God no other lives or property were involved. This was a wake-up call I needed.

October 9, 2015 6:33 pm

Editor,

At some point in our lifetimes some of us may make that one big mistake or really bad decision that might result in some type of life-changing event.  After years of denial, I experienced that life-changing event earlier this year when I was charged with driving under the influence.

I thank God no other lives or property were involved. This was a wake-up call I needed.

Soon after that painful, mind-numbing experience I checked myself into a highly regarded treatment facility. After several weeks of intensive, valuable therapy I was released with a satisfactory completion.

On Sept. 29 the DUI charge was deferred and will be dropped upon completion of a rigorous counseling and therapy program and no further offenses. I need to emphasize that my actions in no way involved Island Transit vehicles or property and were not on Island Transit time.

This is a personal matter which I am addressing as prescribed and is unrelated to my role and performance as interim executive director.  Additionally, I will maintain my duties as interim executive director for six months to provide for a seamless leadership transition as worked out with the board of directors.

I provide this information to you as my open apology for actions I regret and are inappropriate for a person in my position, or for any person for that matter. I am deeply remorseful for my poor judgment and saddened by the hurt I may have inflicted upon other individuals around me.

On a positive note, I am and will continue to be grateful for the valuable assistance provided by many treatment professionals and have been backed by a strong caring support system of family and friends.

Also, I love the work I do on the island and am committed to continue working closely with the Island Transit Board of Directors, all transit employees and the Island County community.

Finally, through all of this I intend to move on as a stronger individual by learning from my misfortunes and to help others avoid the mistakes I have made.

Thank you.

Ken Graska

Interim Executive Director

Island Transit