NIC ELECTION: Vote for Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman

I attended the Chamber of Commerce forum for NIC candidates and the one sponsored by the Mica Grange. The candidates at the chamber forum were Pete Broschet, Brad Corkill and Tarie Zimmerman. Their opponents were at the Grange. I am voting for Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman. Why? I would characterize my answer as threefold. It has to do with dreams, respect and community.

At the Chamber forum, all three candidates appeared to recognize the fact that college students have diverse dreams. At the Grange, the candidates focused on career technical training and the needs — not of students — but local employers. One referred to students as “products” needed by industry. Teachers, welders, artists, nurses, writers, lawyers, mechanics, accountants — these are only some of the dreams NIC students have. Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman recognize this. The candidates at the Grange did not. I left wondering if they even knew that 80% of NIC students are transfer students.

Respect — the Grange candidates were angry and attacking. Their attack on The Press was so intense that a number of longtime residents of our community surrounded the Coeur d’Alene Press reporter at the conclusion of the evening, thanking her for service to our community. Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman were positive and thankful in their presentations.

Community — I have lived here for 35 years. Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman are all longtime residents of the county. The Grange candidates have lived here between one and three years. Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman truly understand and live our values.

If you believe, as I do, that NIC trustees ought to meet the diverse dreams of NIC students, demonstrate respect for all and truly understand the values of our community then vote Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman on Nov. 8.

MICHELLE LIPPERT

Post Falls