On Nov. 5, 2023, my wife and I were driving from Redmond to Newport, going over the pass. We were east of Detroit Dam, and it was raining profusely, rocks tumbling off of cliffs. Because of traffic in front of her, my wife did not see the rocks on the highway, and we received a huge front tire blowout. My wife managed to pull over without any further damage.
Another car pulled in front of us to check his car and noticed we needed help. Being 80 years old with a bad back, this was very much appreciated.
This man, Simon Pickett, who works for the Detroit Ranger station, helped us get our tire changed. This included getting the tire out from underneath the pickup, which was not easy, and getting the jack in place, which was difficult because there was very little room. Thank God I had a small shovel so he could dig out the gravel and dirt, and get the jack in proper position. The rest was now easily accomplished.
The rainy downpour was so, so bad. We had no umbrellas. We were all totally soaked by the time we finished – totally soaked. And it was getting dark.
What was do paramount about this? This man stopped and took the time to help two elderly strangers solve a problem. We tried to pay him but he refused. Yes, we are still in America, where people do help each other.
Remember what President John Kennedy said – “It is not what your country can do for you, but what can you do for your country.” Be nice and helpful to each other.
So when you see Simone Pickett, tell him thank you for helping these two elderly strangers fix a flat tire in a downpour rain on the pass.
Thank you, Simon. It is so appreciated.
John and Jill Pavlicek, Redmond
