Nice and noteworthy in North Idaho

Editorials that criticize can bring about positive results.

Even better, at least in times when the nation is gripped in the clutches of a pandemic, a harsh winter and paralyzing political divide? A kind word or two.

So:

THE READERS ALWAYS WRITE/THE READER'S ALWAYS RIGHT: Dealing with more letters to the editor than there's room for in The Press is challenging — and a real blessing. Our community has an oversized share of citizens who care enough to sound off in front of a big (and critical) audience and sign their name to it.

A CLASS ACT: This editorial page was produced before Thursday's special Coeur d'Alene School Board meeting, but it's clear there's momentum building for a return to students attending class in person five days a week. Limiting exposure to the virus was wise. Getting all the kids back in class soon is now the right answer.

ADVANCING WITH VACCINE: After a rocky start receiving and administering COVID-19 vaccines, many North Idahoans are singing a different tune lately. Their experience signing up for and receiving what could be two life-saving shots is getting rave reviews. Sure, there's still a long way to go, but the road is neither as long nor as daunting as it was just a few weeks ago. Well done Panhandle Health District, Kootenai Health, Northwest Specialty Hospital and Heritage Health.

PAT'S TRAVELING SHOW: Three cheers for Pat Krug and her subtle, respectful campaign to encourage courtesy among drivers. Pat has produced a bumper sticker reminding folks to be kind when they're behind the wheel, noting that this is Idaho — not the rat race place they might have come from. The bumper stickers — Be Kind/You're In Idaho Now — are available for free at The Press, 215 N. Second St. in downtown Coeur d'Alene.

SPEAKING OF WHEELS: Thursday's assault from Ma Nature put driver patience to the test. Some who were out and about noted numerous cases of people helping each other, and that includes efficient crews trying to keep our streets navigable despite heavy snowfall through the morning.

AND MORE WHEELS: Cooperation linking public and private transportation services in the form of an app will be a godsend to many who don't have other alternatives. Well done to all involved.

BRAVO, MR. NILSON: He's conservative. He's Republican. He's a Trump supporter. And he's encouraging everybody in Kootenai County to vote "yes" on their school district's levy. So what are you waiting for? Turn to Page C1 and see what Ron has to say. Then vote yes!