ALLRED: Three reasons to vote

North Idaho voters have an opportunity to vote for Keith Allred, a gifted leader, a fifth generation Idahoan, and a person worth crossing party lines for on Nov. 2.

I am voting for him for three reasons:

1. The economy, which Keith will help revive by eliminating politicized tax exemptions and by helping small businesses that generate 80 percent of new jobs. This will also lower Idaho's overall tax rates.

2. Education: Gov. Otter cut K-12 education funding by $128 million, although we will realize more than $80 million in increased revenue next year. Also given additional staff, the tax commission could net $60 million in increased revenue by going after tax deadbeats.

3. Conflict resolution: Throughout his education and career, Keith's goal has been to bring people together - Republicans, Democrats and independents. He has taught conflict resolution and leadership and has resolved disputes involving public land use, hydroelectric dams and tribal issues. He has worked for corporations, federal and state agencies, and governments.

If you are tired of hostile, partisan politics this is the man who can bring us together. Vote for Keith Allred on Nov. 2.

MURIEL DOUGLAS

Coeur d'Alene