>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

I sent the following letter to Dr. Gregg Densmore. I want to share it with your readers to let them know what amazing care I received while in your area:

Dear Dr. Densmore,

I am writing this letter to make you and your staff aware of how appreciative I am for your personalized care. In May, while visiting family in Elgin, I fell and broke my wrist. I was brought in to the emergency room in extreme pain. The ER doctors were helpful but luckily you were still working that evening. Your bedside manner was comforting and you even joked with me a bit to ease my tension. It was determined that surgery was required to mend my wrist. ...

Surgery went well and you were able to fix my wrist with two pins. ... Apparently, there was a chance that you would have needed to put in a metal plate.

When I returned home to San Diego, I made an appointment to see Dr. Steven Tradonsky, an orthopedic surgeon. After viewing my X-rays, he commented that you had done an amazing job. Kudos to you!

I was so fearful when I broke my wrist in Oregon that I would not receive top-of-the-line care. I have lived in San Diego all my life and was afraid that a "small-town doctor" would not be competent enough. I was so wrong and I apologize for that misjudgment.

We are so bombarded with people complaining, so I thought I would take the time to praise you and your staff. Both you and your staff have been amazing to me and I am grateful that I came into your care. In particular, Lori in your office was extremely helpful with billing issues and went well beyond what was expected of her. ... Please know that you have an amazing employee in her.

Cheryl Merriweather, San Diego

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The federally provided smoke impacts on the La Grande area during the week of Sept. 26 were both inexcusable and

alarming.

The renewable energy — at a time of soaring fossil fuel prices — consumed by the prescribed burn could have been burned in EPA-certified woodstoves and heated all the structures in the La Grande area for well more than a year with 80 percent less harmful emissions.

The finest particles from that single smoke impact will be present in the deepest areas of the lungs of every creature exposed to it for up to two years. At no time, to my knowledge, did any government individual alert the population to the imminent threat. When exposed to a smoke impact of this magnitude, people should stay indoors and limit physical activity as much as possible, especially children and the elderly.

Hopefully, this past event won't knock the wheels off the well-established and successful City of La Grande Air Quality program or the Union County smoke management program. The city's air quality program initially was the only such program in the United States. Driven by public education and voluntary actions from its citizens, it brought the city into compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standard two years before Congress officially adopted the program and entered it into the National Register.

I called our senators, the EPA, the DEQ and the La Grande city manager. I think people need to build a fire under the Department of Agriculture. When was the last time you had a personal phone conversation with your mayor, commissioner, senator or representative? Their lack of leadership could simply mean that they have not heard from you.

Grant Darrow, Elgin

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Dissenting wars are not new to Americans; there have always been those who oppose all wars, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, from World War I, the war to end all wars, to World War II. In earlier times those who disagreed with the very idea of war were often called detestable names, such as traitors, both to cause and nation.

Yet those very wars gave Americans their freedoms and have preserved that freedom to this day. Freedom wasn't given to us. It was not a gift, but won with the lives of our sons, our fathers, our grandfathers and our great-grandfathers. Freedom is never free.

Freedom is more like flying a kite. You must continually let out and pull in to keep it alive in the ever-changing winds — so it is with freedom.

Even after the vicious attack by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor, protesters said we should wait and see.

Dissenting government decisions is a game people play. I can tell you I hated the war. I hate the thought of war, but I would hate losing freedom more. I boarded the USS Richmond at Pearl Harbor in 1940, and she left the harbor two weeks prior to December 7, 1941. I served in the South Pacific for two years, leaving only after the Coral Sea Battle. Then I served in the Aleutians, leaving there only after the Komindorskie Bering Sea Battle. And I would not ask for more.

Still, if America needs a man of my age and experience, I would volunteer to help save the free world again.

Orrel B. (Buck) Hayden, La Grande

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I read in the paper that Fish and Wildlife say that cougars have killed 75 percent of the elk calf population. So hire a professional hunter to kill cougars. Draw names and let the local people fill their tags. Then bring in wolves and kill the rest.

Out-of-state people have better chances to draw tags. It gets old when out-of-state people ask, "Where's a good place to hunt?" Auctioning tags shouldn't be allowed — that's outrageous.

One more issue: How can Fish and Wildlife sell you a tag for bear or cougar, but you can't hunt them if you don't draw a deer or elk rifle tag? It's not right to sell you a legal tag but not allow you to hunt if you don't draw a rifle tag. You just ate those tags. Another way for Fish and Wildlife to make more money.

Matt Fisher, La Grande

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I was sorry to read Mr. Morrison's letter stating that he "never stood up nor shook his finger at the mayor." Instead of apologizing for his behavior, he chose to deny.

The citizens who attended the meeting, administrators and other councilpersons have stated that Mr. Morrison did indeed rise from his chair, shake his finger at and yell at the mayor. It's sad that a council member and mayor hopeful would deny he did this when it was witnessed by so many.

Was Mr. Morrison so angry he doesn't recall his behavior?

Linda Boettcher, Union

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Earlier this month St. Peter's Episcopal Church hosted the annual Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Eastern Oregon. The Eastern Oregon University Chamber Choir performed at the convention banquet as part of the program. The choir and the director, Peter Wordelman, gave a delightful performance. The choir received a number of standing ovations from a very appreciative audience.

In addition to enjoying the music, we were especially impressed with the students, who looked like they were really enjoying their part.

The community and EOU can be very proud and honored to have these young people representing the region and the university. We would like to suggest that anybody who likes good choir music should plan to attend a performance of the choir — you will not be disappointed.

David and Nancy Kerley, La Grande

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I will be glad when the elections are over. I was listening to television the other night, and all I ever heard was this person had done that, and this person has done that, so do not vote for them.

I never heard once in the commercials why the candidate wanted you to vote for them and what they would do for us if elected. I do not see why the campaigns always have to be so negative and not more positive.

June Hesse, Union

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As the November election approaches, there are several issues that will be affecting our community directly. Measures 41 and 48 are at the top of the list.

Measure 41: Federal deduction will allow a personal tax deduction equal to total federal deduction for all exemptions to substitute for state exemption credit, obviously reducing revenue to the state.

Measure 48 limits biennial percentage increase in state spending to percentage increase in state population, plus inflation. This measure mimics a Colorado amendment that was dramatically negative to their public services to a point that it was inevitably suspended.

In a nutshell, Measure 41 would result in a decrease in revenue for 2007-2009 of as much as $800 million.

Measure 48, in just its first year, would mean a reduction in state spending of more than $2 billion. Although a few more bucks in my pocket and less government spending are very appealing, the impact on services would be devastating.

If these measures were to pass, the

La Grande School District alone would see roughly $3 million to $5 million less for 2007-09. Not just school systems, but all services sustained by our state funding will feel this effect. These are not good measures for anyone and are absolutely not worthy of a yes vote.

Our local school bond levy on the other hand is a positive vote that can help. Even without the passage of measures 41 and 48, we still suffer (as do all school districts in our state) from inadequate funding. There is a wealth of misinformation out there.

Your vote matters. We urge everyone to look beyond misconceptions and personalities. Get educated about the issues we are being asked to vote on. Do your homework and make good, positive choices come Nov 7.

Jerry Sebestyen, President, LG Education Association, and Keith Walker, school board member

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I am writing regarding the upcoming

La Grande school levy. I am currently opposed to this bond levy and following are a few of my reasons:

Declining enrollment — yet we have an extra administrative position at our high school.

Buildings in need of renovation — according to my sources, the consultant hired by our district recommended closing Island City School due to its poor construction and adding onto Willow.

We passed a technology bond that has eight years left to mature. These monies were invested in all school buildings, two of which are now closed.

In your recent editorial you suggested the business community and district patrons get behind this measure and show that we care about our schools. As a business member and district patron, I do show caring toward our schools each and every time a student walks into my business or knocks on my residence door. I donate time and money so that our children can have extracurricular activities. I pay fees to the schools for my own children for not only extracurricular events but classes they take, sports they play, enrollment fees and on and on.

At this point in time I do not feel that our current administration has shown fiscal responsibility with our tax dollars and will be voting no in November.

B. Brennan, La Grande

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I encourage your vote for Carol Summers.

She is a solid candidate whose only agenda is to see this community grow and be the best that it can be. She has a vision of

La Grande becoming a desirable

destination.

Among the many reasons she should receive your vote is that she will join other council members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each city council meeting. The current council member, who is Carol's opponent, refuses to participate in the pledge. I consider that a direct insult to the citizens of La Grande, especially at a time when our voices of allegiance to this country are so critical. No philosophical reason for this unwillingness to participate in this simple demonstration of patriotism should be acceptable!

Please cast your vote for Carol Summers and place a new voice on the council that will vote independently and share our mutual love for La Grande and the USA

Bill Hermann, La Grande

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Union faces serious problems in the next few years. We have had three years of chaos, and it continues. We hope the voters will opt for serious change so we can end the division and chaos.

The present council paid $5,000 for a management specialist to study our city and advise them. Andy Parks advised them not to make any sweeping personnel changes before the next year. They almost immediately got rid of the city recorder and combined that job with the administrator's job. They have since fired the administrator — in the most degrading and nasty way possible — and, because they have not been successful in replacing him, are hiring an "interim" at a high rate. The council has a lot to learn about employee management and treatment.

Mr. Parks also advised them not to make any charter changes until after this fall's election and to then do so only with much thought and consideration. Their response? There are three proposed (and, in my opinion, poorly thought out) charter changes on the November ballot.

Citizens are increasingly frustrated as to how to get answers about what is going on. When they go to council meetings and ask, all they receive are blank stares — and in many cases, the mayor will not recognize them to allow them to speak.

The mayor and council are supposed to represent the citizens, not rule them or keep them in the dark. It amazes me how they can know what the public wants or needs when they refuse to communicate with them.

There are some bright, intelligent people running for mayor and council — people who have no personal agendas but who want to serve for the good of the city and its citizens. Think carefully about your choices and vote Nov. 7.

Barbara Gray, Union

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Whoever selfishly stole the decorative items from our front lawn, please return them.

Halloween is a very exciting time for children. My 2 1/2-year-old daughter is beginning to experience the thrill that the fall season and Halloween spirit offers. She recently skipped around the pumpkin patch, taking time in choosing the perfect pumpkins to decorate our front yard. She specifically picked out and named two scarecrows to accompany her pumpkins for the neighborhood to enjoy.

Unfortunately, her smile quickly turned to a frown this morning when she saw that one of her scarecrows and a few hand-picked pumpkins were missing. My heart shattered when I saw the tears beginning to well in her eyes.

Whether this was a prank, a dare or an honest mistake, it was devastating for my daughter to see her pumpkins and scarecrow missing. Not only were the material items stolen from her, but also some holiday enthusiasm and excitement. Before you raid from another family, remember the delight and joy you're wrenching from the heart of a young child.

Can you justify robbing childhood happiness and bliss for your selfish thieving thrill?

Keiva Bartel, La Grande

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Never has there been a more urgent need for fresh leadership in Oregon, especially concerning our natural-resource-based businesses of timber, ranching and farming.

All who live in our rural communities have seen an exodus of families due to decreasing local economies that can no longer support family-wage jobs and therefore our schools. Our current governor gives lip service of support to rural Oregon, but in reality he supports expanding the roadless areas in forests, increased regulation of water for beneficial use, and more state government control of resources than even federal mandates. It is imperative that we change direction now.

Just the one issue of increased roadless areas has a three-pronged negative effect: at least triple the time to respond to fire, the damaging impact these catastrophic fires have on our watersheds that we all need and use for our livelihood, and even less available timber for rural employment.

To use a President Reagan question about Jimmy Carter, Are we (rural Oregon) better off than we were four years ago with Kulongoski? The answer is a resounding no!

I urge everyone who wants a healthy rural Oregon, and vibrant, fresh leadership, to vote Ron Saxton for governor.

Curtis W. Martin, North Powder, President, Baker County, Livestock Association

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Facts:

1. All of the branches of our national government are dominated by a single political party.

2. As the majority, this party manages our national affairs.

3. Their management of our affairs has been somewhat inept. (I'm being generous here).

4. This majority in our nation's Congress has, to a great extent, acted as a rubber stamp for our president.

5 This president, by his actions and his signing statements that are attached to newly written laws, has demonstrated a high degree of independence from congressional oversight.

6. Our secretary of defense has stated that this country must change to a more agile government in order to meet the complex demands of the new century.

7. Our Supreme Court is dominated by a majority from this same party.

Facing these facts, we need to consider the chances that our democratic system of checks and balances is in danger of being eroded away.

Don't let this happen.

Don Paul, La Grande

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Has La Grande truly made "great strides," as Mayor Johnson wrote in her recent letter to the editor, "in the areas of economic development, downtown improvement and our quality of life"? I'm not so sure.

Instead of boldly taking the often difficult long steps on the path of growth and progress, perhaps we've just been staggering about in loose circles for the better part of 12 years. Perhaps we just tell ourselves that we're moving forward because talk is cheap and easy.

Real growth and true progress require real work and true communication. Empty words and faint praise are no substitutes for real-world accomplishments.

Take a look at Baker City's collective re-imagination and re-organization over the past 10 years. Baker has become a significant regional destination on its way toward national recognition.

Moreover, pay a visit to Walla Walla and taste the fruits born from its transformative labors of the past 12 years. Now a national destination, Walla Walla will soon be able to accurately boast of its hard-earned and much deserved international renown.

In comparison, La Grande has changed very little and made few, if any, improvements to its economic reality, its downtown identity or its quality of life. The responsibility for these shortcomings lies upon us all, but most of all upon our elected leaders.

La Grande should be the economic center, cultural nexus and natural capital of Northeast Oregon. It isn't any of these things, unfortunately, nor is it any closer to becoming them. La Grande isn't expressing its true potential.

In La Grande, we need a renaissance of imagination, creativity and commerce. We need a renewed sense of community, and we need new leadership to help us get there.

Berkley Scott Summers, La Grande

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Writing a column about a topic such as sports can be more easily cut with a line, whereas the masses, culture and especially music should be left for the people to decide. Harder's article pertaining to a high school student's rendition of "The "Star-Spangled Banner" at a football game as an anti-war sentiment is ridiculous.

As one of the American people, I take offense that Harder thought it even possible to separate the people from the country in this statement. Ultimately, Harder's statement is contradictory, making the article subjective rather than objective.

If Paul Harder does not like the Jimi Hendrix rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner," maybe he would rather sit next to the cannons that shot over Fort McHenry for 25 hours, which he correctly stated as inspiring the writing of the original song by Francis Scott Key.

Is it ironic that a war-inspired song should not be loud and abrasive? Choosing to slaughter a high school student's work in a published paper is unprofessional. Colt Haney is the Union High School ASB vice president and has been playing in his band, Colt 45, for the past four years.

As a supportive community we should thank him for bringing his talent to such events as Homecoming. I am sure that an attack on "The Star-Spangled Banner" was not made. In fact, when I asked Colt his intentions for choosing a Hendrix version, he said, "I did not play a Hendrix rendition. I was inspired by Hendrix as an artist to write my own rendition."

Editors, please keep the sports writer's comments within the lines of the field or court and let the people decide the rest.

Jaime Gustavson, Union High School art teacher

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When President Clinton left office, the national debt stood at $867 billion.

After 12 years of President Reagan and President Bush Sr., the debt had risen to $6.5 trillion!

When Clinton was president for eight years, nothing was added to the national debt.

After six years of the current president, the debt has risen to $8.5 trillion, and by the end of his term it will be at least $9 trillion.

Now, who do you think are fiscal

conservatives?

Please, people, vote for the Democrats and give them a chance to correct this insane mess!

Lon Skjei, Wallowa

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I am writing in response to Paul Harder's editorial in the Oct. 18 sports section regarding the performance of the national anthem during the Union vs. Elgin football game last Friday night.

Mr. Harder wrote that we need to "draw the line" and choose sides for or against these irreverent young hippies who would so notoriously disrespect our National Anthem.

I say that I am on the kid's side of this one. The lad has obvious talent with six strings aided by Mr. Edison's electricity. I did not take offense to this rendition of the Anthem. In fact, I enjoyed it, and I am 50 years old.

This kid is just like those young people serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of whom I am sure would relate to the guitar version of our national song. His version of the National Anthem was not an anti-war protest, and it certainly was not unpatriotic nor meant to disrespect any who have fought and died for our country.

Maybe the Observer should keep the editorials on the editorial pages and the sports writing on the sports pages. If Mr. Harder wants to draw lines, I suggest he buy an Etch-a-Sketch and have a real good time with it.

Dan Fiorito, Union

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We would like to take this opportunity to respond to the recent article against supporting the La Grande School District renovation bond.

In the article dated Oct. 23, Stephen Donnell acknowledged that while much of the proposed bond is necessary, there were areas where he felt things could be done more cost effectively. He gave his opinion on how this could be done. While we respect Mr. Donnell and his opinion, we feel that some factual information and clarifications are in order. His statements:

1. "The school district has not analyzed things as closely as it should have.'' Fact: This has been a two-year process involving citizens, architects, school personnel and others who made the recommendations. Mr. Donnell only recently became involved, so he doesn't know all that has transpired.

2. A new heating system in the east building of the high school is not needed because "most components of a heating system don't wear out." Fact: The current steam system has many components that wear out due to corrosion.

3. He "objects to plans for the addition of air conditioning in the upstairs of the high school and middle school.'' He feels that this can be accomplished with "individual air conditioning units" in the rooms. Fact: Since the buildings were designed with central air in mind, not all current windows allow space for these units. Even if feasible, the noise level and energy cost of these less efficient units would be staggering.

4. "A bond levy of $20 million would serve the school district just as well and save the taxpayers money.'' Fact: Construction costs are rising at 1 percent a month. Waiting adds expense.

5. A possible $10 million in savings without an explanation or specifics as to how this would be done.

Opinions are great. Facts are better. Be informed before you vote.

Michael Frasier, Ken Bruce, Citizens for School Renovation Committee

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In response to Dennis Wilkinson's letter, Cove High School students would like to address some of the concerns raised.

Largely the point brought up by Mr. Wilkinson was that Cove High School has misused funds in hiring a principal and that the bond levy would be wasted money from taxpayers.

Mr. Wilkinson's suggestion would be to eliminate the position of high school principal as an alternative to the levy. It's clear from this assumption that Mr. Wilkinson is not aware of the challenges the high school faced when our principal was part-time. Additionally, following the unfortunate passing of our former full-time principal, our high school was left in a disorganized state. Our current principal has done nothing short of making miraculous progress in our high school. Our principal's selflessness towards improving our high school on every front is evidenced by 12-plus-hour work days, a highly successful FFA chapter and a new wave of student respect.

Currently the position of principal earns an annual wage of $52,500, according to the Wilkinson letter. The unpaid positions assumed by our principal include FFA adviser (according to Penn State college of agricultural sciences this position receives an average of $30,000 to $58,000 each year), assistant varsity football coach and high school guidance counselor (according to the ASCA this position receives an average pay of $44,100 annually). If the position of high school principal were eliminated these duties would fall to the already demanding position of district superintendent. The Cove superintendent already performs the duties of athletic director, technical adviser and the Old Oregon League athletics chairperson.

The position of principal at Cove is absolutely necessary. Without a principal our school would not function properly. The issue at hand is not whether the position of principal should be negotiated, but how the bond levy will help improve the school not only for the students, but for the community as a whole.

Katie Moore, CHS ASB Vice Pres. and Lena McClelland, CHS ASB Secretary

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One of the best-kept secrets about our nation's capital is a privately funded park that honors the policemen and women killed in the line of duty across the nation since the George Washington administration: the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

Dedicated in 1991 by President Bush, the memorial contains a white marble wall with names of courageous cops who died so that others might live, including the names of 157 police officers from Oregon alone. Following Sept. 11, 2001, it took on a whole new meaning. And, sadly, many more will follow as long as anyone is willing to hold the line between civilization and anarchy.

This citizen encourages all fellow Americans to support the memorial with small donations, for truly every little bit helps. And now, more than ever, given the war against terrorism, it is important to support your police any way you can. For truly they cannot help you unless you help them.

Remember always: "For United We Stand, Divided We Fall."

Ron R. Fischer, Elgin

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Remember, the Bible will triumph, not evil.

Let's add some more reasons why the Amish showed that evil would not prevail, and showed 21st-century Americans that not only is hate evil, it is also evil to be selfish, hateful, spiteful and nonbelieving. I pray that the Amish have the attention of more than a handful of people, so that they know what the Amish are really about and how blessed they are from above for their courage to forgive.

Maybe that handful will pick up that unthinkable thing called the Bible and read just a few passages and see that the Amish are only following the Bible's words. Those of us who are true believers, too, can only pray that that handful of people will pick up the precious and awesome book the Bible.

Maybe then they, too, can help others triumph over evil and fear, with love and peace as the Bible teaches. Whether it comes from a peace sign like Dora Cohen wrote or the Bible, it can't happen without everyone believing from the heart. Not through

violence.

Sandy Mendenhall, Cove

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Having known Trooper Larry Purdy for more than 10 years, I cannot, and never will, believe the charges against him. There is no one, trooper or anyone else, that I would feel safer protecting me.

We have been fortunate to have had him patrolling our area the past decade. Larry has demonstrated his dedication to his chosen profession, high moral standards and integrity to me over and over again.

He is trustworthy, honest and loyal.

Wanda Lowe, La Grande

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I'm sure you have already received many letters from angry Union residents.

The reason is the rather upsetting article regarding Paul Harder's opinion of Colt Haney's electric guitar version of "The Star Spangled Banner." Yes, this is not something you would hear on a regular basis. However, the way Harder put it, it could not have been more repulsive than anything else he has heard before. Would he rather have listened to a raunchy and profane song?

I certainly think Mr. Harder took this subject way too far. By saying that Colt butchered the piece, and that Francis Scott Key would have rather drowned than listen to it, Harder insulted Colt and the entire Union High School more than he knows.

One of Mr. Harder's statements was, "Young people today have plenty of ways to express themselves without coming after ‘The Star Spangled Banner.' " Please allow me to disagree with this. For one, Harder makes it sound like by using a modern instrument to play our nation's anthem Colt ripped the heart and soul out of freedom itself. Rather than this being young people just expressing themselves, isn't it more of a call to modern teenagers to respect and love their country?

How many teenagers these days have their hearts stirred by the classical notes of an overly familiar song? Young people would have been drawn to Colt's rendition, and most people I spoke to loved it. Why? Because it takes modern music to stir up the courage and respect in the heart of a young person.

Anna Maxwell, Union High School Freshman

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In an Oct. 17 letter Dennis Wilkinson compared the Cove School District to a child who misspent his allowance and is now asking for more money in the form of a bond levy proposal.

Mr. Wilkinson cites high administrative and associated PERS costs as the main reasons not to support the levy. He suggested that if the school superintendent would eliminate the position of principal, assume his duties and implement a few other unidentified cost-cutting measures, a bond levy would be unnecessary.

If it were only as simple as Mr. Wilkinson suggests. In the past 15 years, having the superintendent perform both functions has been discussed by both the Cove Budget Committee and Cove School Board on more than a few occasions. At one point, the principal position was modified to half-time, but this was found to be ineffective due to the amount of responsibilities. Some of the principal's current responsibilities include supervising and managing the FFA and vocational ag programs, teaching two class periods, attending and managing extracurricular activities (usually on weekends when school is not in session) and serving as the assistant varsity football coach. These duties are in addition to the daily responsibility of managing the high school staff and students.

Mr. Wilkinson also wrote that the district secretary is paid $68,536.60 annually, $24,045.60 of which is benefits. This is incorrect; the district secretary is paid $35,001.35 annually, including benefits.

I do not believe that the Cove School District is administratively overstaffed, that its employees are excessively overpaid or that the district is acting like a child who misspent his allowance and is now asking for more — and as such I have no problem voting yes in support of the proposed bond levy that will expand, improve and upgrade the building.

Scott Johnson, Cove

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The dictionary defines the word "radical" as coming from a root word meaning "dedicated true believer." The radical terrorist Muslims whom the United States is at war with use the Koran as their guidebook. It instructs Muslims how to live their lives.

If you go to the library and get on the computers you can Google on "Quran" or "Koran" and read for yourself what it says in this "holy book." It instructs its followers to eradicate Jews and Christians.

Some of the laws included in their "five pillars of faith" are that if a person steals, he is to have his right hand cut off, or if he curses Allah, he is to have his tongue cut out. Murderers get their heads cut off, and on and on. These laws are carried out regularly in some radical Muslim towns. If a man's wife commits an "infidelity," he is instructed to kill her. If the daughter marries an "infidel," the family is instructed to kill her also. These laws are decreed by their religious leaders.

America, as a democracy, guarantees rights to all men and all faiths, but this radical Muslim faith seeks to kill me, eradicate my faith and destroy democracy. I do, and will always, oppose those who promote it. I vote not to cut and run.

John Petersen, La Grande

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I'm not a politician. I am a person of principle, integrity and honor, who believes passionately that community service is a duty, who loves his country, his community and his family.

Please recall our community accomplishments. I've been a part of: the Cook Memorial Library, the NK West Building, the new fire station, a business park with vital infrastructure, a beautiful urban forest and athletic and recreational parks. I can't claim total responsibility for these things, because many of you were integral in making them happen. I am eternally grateful for that help.

Please think about what I would like to accomplish: steady and workable economic development, family-wage jobs to fill the business park, a new look and feel for downtown and a envisioning process that needs your input on what La Grande should be.

I've made La Grande my home. I've sacrificed time with my family to help this community become what it is. Many evenings my 6-year-old son asks me if I have a meeting. When I respond "no," he gives a little whoop and we settle into a game, a book or watching TV snuggled in the chair. He is, and you are, why I work to make La Grande a great place to live. I need your help to continue that process.

Steve Clements, La Grande City Councilor

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Once our family lived in a home with a very leaky roof. In a heavy storm, buckets were strategically placed throughout the house to catch the streams of rain. The game, of course, was to accurately predict when the buckets were about to spill and replace them before they overflowed.

We are in a similar predicament concerning our schools. While we can keep on replacing buckets, at some point in time, we must accept the responsibility and "put on a new roof."

Now is the time to invest in our school facilities.

We encourage this community to work together to provide schools that are safe, secure and efficient. Let's fix our schools.

Vote yes on the bond measure 31 - 59.

Glen and Vicki Herman, La Grande