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Opinion Letters and Comments for May 18, 2009
Letters and Comments for May 18, 2009
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Scott, Patterson, Lehman, Porkorney Student weighs in on banning play To the Editor: I play Picasso in “Picasso at the Lapin Agile’’ being performed at EOU, thanks to the EOU Democrats. As an LHS senior, I’m tired of reading community members’ arguments regarding the play and none by students. The banning of this play directly affected students, not the community. My opinion doesn’t reflect that of the rest of the cast, Mr. Cahill or anyone else at the high school. It’s my own and I feel it’s time it is heard. Since the day I heard someone was trying to tell me what I couldn’t perform at my own school, I’ve been irate. Since the day the community decided to rise up in some sort of morality crusade, I’ve been angry. And since the day of the rejected appeal, I’ve been disheartened. I’ve lost faith in this community. The fact that people who have no connections to the school or haven’t read the play were able to impose their “standards” on my art sickens me. The fact our community is so closed-minded and afraid that they censor me and tell me I can’t perform a part I love, one that has honestly made me reflect upon myself and that I can relate to, depresses me. I don’t see this play as immoral or sinful. It’s comedy — something to be laughed at and enjoyed. It’s challenged me to act in ways I never have before, and not by excessively drinking, cursing the Lord or by objectifying women, but rather by challenging my skills as an actor. In reality, if the “standards” that were applied to the play were applied to everything else in school, we would have no Internet, no Shakespeare and probably no Bible. Those who opposed the play have no idea what’s in my best interest or who I am. Please keep your religious and conservative beliefs out of my school and out of my mind. Richard Scott La Grande
To the Editor: I am writing this letter in support of Ron Bruce for Union School Board. My relationship with Ron goes back 25 years. As a child he showed commitment, enthusiasm and dedication in everything he did. He and his family always had deeply held morals. As an adult he has carried those great attributes with him. This is reflective in the diverse support he and his family have given to the school district and to our community. Ron has stepped up to the plate and coaches wrestling at all age levels. He takes the time to talk with the local kids and the parents, making them feel heard and understood. Along with this he supports local activities physically and financially when possible. As a graduate of Union High School and Eastern Oregon University he carries a passion for Union School District and its future. Ron sends his two young children to school in Union because of the impression that was left with him when he graduated from UHS. He wouldn’t have it any other way. Ron cares about our kids, their future education and the future of our community. In my opinion he has proven he can fill the school board position and make a difference in our community. Best of luck, Ron! Sandra Patterson Union
To the Editor: I am writing this letter in support of Mike Berglund for La Grande School Board Position 5, Zone 3. Mike currently serves as a board member for the Citizen Review Board. I have had the opportunity to observe Mike in a board capacity. Mike is extremely dependable, professional, open and honest. He is not afraid to ask questions that may be difficult in nature. He stands up for his beliefs and will ensure that his concerns have been clearly articulated. Mike also ensures that the needs of the children are being met and will not compromise their needs to appease a bureaucracy. I believe Mike would be a great asset to the La Grande School Board. Toni Lehman La Grande
To the Editor: A community member who wishes to serve on a school board must have the best interests of all students and staff in mind. One such candidate for Position 5, Mike Berglund, has that big-picture view of the job of school board member. I have witnessed Mike Berglund’s good work and solid leadership. Mike has been co-chair of the Substance Abuse Advisory Commission for the city of La Grande, and he has been active with other programs that benefit the children in La Grande. Mike conducts himself in a very dignified way and will tackle issues with a to-the-point, roll-up-your-sleeves attitude. Mike is a devoted father and husband who will serve on the La Grande School Board Position 5 with effective and solid commitment to all students and staff. Elect Mike Berglund for La Grande School Board Position 5. Dan Pokorney La Grande |
