Home 
Opinion Letters and comments for July 9, 2008
Letters and comments for July 9, 2008
|
Geyer, Perren, Jones The recent incident in Joseph involving the desecration of the front yard of Don and Evelyn Swart should be a call to all Wallowa County residents to denounce this form of destructive behavior. We certainly respect the passion (on both sides) that many residents and local merchants felt about the proposed special event ordinance. At the same time, we should be aware that what we say is very powerful and can feed the flames of conflict, confusion and hate. We should be able to disagree in a way that does not encourage anger or judgment. We should be able to resolve conflict in a manner that brings about understanding and connection. We must strive to develop relationships that are based upon mutual respect, compassion and cooperation. Our goal must be to resolve conflict peacefully, whether personal or public. Our community has been given an opportunity to move beyond communication of fear and misunderstanding toward a path of nonviolent communication that can help us meet the needs of all people and create a shared relationship between all parties. Chris and Christina Geyer Lostine I'm saddened by the actions of someone who burned a swastika into Don and Evelyn Swart’s lawn. I admire and love both Don and Evelyn. They are truly Wallowa County’s “unsung heroes” who deserve respect and thanks for all that they do. Wallowa County’s image has been hurt by this thoughtless act. However, it can signal a new beginning if we can all agree to disagree without being disagreeable. Jerry Perren Enterprise Thank you for noting my retirement in a recent Observer article. Certainly each retiree has a story worthy of coverage. If there is anything I’ve learned in 32 years teaching, it’s that nearly every teacher has an amazing impact on different students. (One of my daughters is still in touch with her kindergarten and second-grade teachers!) It doesn’t take an astronomy teacher to see that it takes all kinds of “stars,” both off and on the main-sequence, to radiate the multitude of colors and wavelengths needed to light up all the young eyes who come to school. It has been my honor to work among a constellation of brilliant and colorful stars in both Union and La Grande schools. The work I have witnessed others doing daily in public education truly brightens the planet. I feel fortunate to have stood in the light cast by these stellar individuals — many retired, many still teaching. What they all share is a call from the heart to help our children learn. Chas. Jones La Grande |
