If only a sporting event could show how to bring a community together for a common goal
If only...
A sporting event can bring a community together focused on a common love, a common goal.
Boise State’s surprising 35-13 victory over San Diego State at Albertsons Stadium before 35,000 fans, clothed in the colors of their beloved team, was a testimony of what might happen when we choose to come together as one.
Exuberant fans, dressed in blue and orange, cheering for the home team caused numerous penalties for the visiting Aztecs due to the deafening roar of the crowd. The adrenaline enhancing cheers for the Bronco defense contributed immeasurably for the convincing victory.
Reflecting on the enthusiasm of the Bronco fans I noted that other colors, invisible “blues” and “reds,” representing Democrats and Republicans, were also gathered together in mutual support for the local team.
If only that shared enthusiasm at this sporting event be apparent in addressing the divisiveness of a nation torn apart in political conflict.
If only a cheering for civility could be realized in our political discourse.
If only, for the sake of our children and future generations, that we might cheer for the common goals of hope and fairness in a nation so divided.
If only…
Bob Fontaine, Eagle
Arkoosh for attorney general
We had the privilege of working as lawyers for the Idaho Attorney General’s Office for over twenty years under the direction of both Republican and Democratic attorneys general.
We support Tom Arkoosh because of his outstanding legal expertise. The attorney general is the chief legal officer of the state, helping public officials and agencies address a wide array of complicated issues.
Tom Arkoosh has spent his career in law — not politics. He will bring to the office the knowledge, skill, balance and wisdom gained through years of representing clients with many of these same legal issues. We also support Mr. Arkoosh because he is committed to representing all the people of Idaho, not just one political branch. He has support from both Democratic and Republican leaders.
Partisan advice is unworthy of the attorney general, not to mention costly to the people of Idaho. Your tax money pays for legal “mistakes” motivated by politics, rather than an accurate understanding of the law. Please research the candidates and join us in voting for Tom Arkoosh. He is a well-respected Idaho lawyer dedicated to continuing the office’s history of non-partisan legal representation. Idaho deserves no less.
Stephen and Leslie Goddard, Mountain Home
Restraint reform
I am grateful for the Idaho Statesman article: Idaho kids harmed when restrained and secluded in schools and the staff editorial: Standards needed for restraining and secluding. I am that parent, who hopes to bring awareness, create legislation, support accountability and increase skills to every educator in Idaho. I am a supporter of public education; I was a school counselor in Idaho and know first-hand there are better ways to support students who struggle with behaviors.
All behavior is communication. Are we listening? Our most vulnerable students are being systematically abused.
Becca Savransky did a great job at exploring the issues related to restraints and seclusion. This is Idaho’s chance to lead the way toward change. I implore all readers to contact their legislators to demand accountability and transparency regarding this issue.
The Idaho State Department of Education, the Idaho State Board of Education dropped the ball 12 years ago creating a culture of exclusion and abuse by Idaho educators, primarily administrators who candidly state, all students and staff deserve to be safe. They are correct, my children are students. Compassion over compliance will lead all students into a brighter future.
Tricia Ellinger, Emmett