Build an army of Addises

Some kids get to go out for ice cream when they bring home good grades.

Katie Waltar, a senior at Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy? Her reward is a brand new car.

That's because a guy who wears Hawaiian shirts and khaki shorts even in the dead of winter apparently takes his wardrobe savings and invests it instead in education. Tom Addis, owner of Lake City Ford, has for 13 years been giving away a car to help motivate area high school students to excel, and Ms. Waltar is lucky winner No. 13.

To qualify, seniors from six high schools must be among the top 10 percent in their class. Anything less, they're not in the drawing.

Through the program Addis builds goodwill with future customers, but the businessman's ultimate goal is to encourage students to be their best. He has long been one of the area's most outspoken advocates for excellence in public education, but unlike many others, Addis puts his money where his mouth is.

We hope readers keep people like Tom Addis in mind when they complain about what's wrong with public education - and do nothing themselves to improve it. While most people can't afford to offer a new car every year as academic motivation for an entire class of high schoolers, many can contribute their time or something else of value.

We encourage you to check in with a local public school near you and find out how you might help. Hawaiian shirts and khaki shorts are encouraged, but optional.