KETCHUM: Best choice for students

I met Mr. Ketchum the year he began working at North Idaho College. I was on several committees with him and soon learned what an enthusiastic worker he is and the dedication he has to improve student's lives. The success of the Workforce Training program and the thousands of people who have benefited from it speaks for itself. He worked with the high schools and the college through the Tech Prep program to begin the dual credit system that is in place today as well as other innovate accomplishments.

Fifteen years ago I visited Anderson County South Carolina and learned what a successful collaboration between the county high schools, the community colleges, the businesses, the public and Clemson University could accomplish.

When I returned to Kootenai County, I wondered if Kootenai County would ever be able to accomplish something close to that model and enter the 21st. century.

It is always about money. But a large part of the equation is commitment and leadership. Mr. Nilson and Mr. Ketchum meet this criteria. The KTEC election passed with a decisive margin. Whether you were in favor or against the project, it is a reality and now we want it to be successful. These two candidates have the experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to make NIC a success.

LYNN SCHWINDEL

Coeur d'Alene