Editorial hurtful, off target

It is sadness, loneness and isolation that I feel as I write this response to Sunday's Coeur d'Alene Press editorial regarding the HREI and KCTFHR. In my 41 years in Idaho and Coeur d'Alene, I cannot recall an instance in which I publically criticized the Coeur d'Alene Press but on numerous occasions at press conferences and other public venues thanked and praised the newspaper for their support of our human rights work as well as their coverage of such programs as the NIC Popcorn Forum. But on a far more important level, I am heartbroken at the possible damage this editorial could do to our constant struggle to eradicate prejudice and bigotry as well as hinder our work in preventing the ongoing problem of hate crimes as we serve as allies to the victims. It is with no anger or retribution that I share with all of you my grief over the setback this editorial could do to the advancement of human rights. I know from a lifetime of commitment to this cause that the peddlers of hate would like nothing better than to have human rights organizations and activists become silent. As long as God gives me the strength to be active, I will not remain silent. Today I did a silent prayer asking God to give me the strength, wisdom and kindness in making the proper response. I find no examples in history that silence resulted in a victory over the forces of prejudice, bigotry or the eradication of hate. The conservative columnist for the Washington Post, Kathleen Parker, stated it most eloquently in her column when she wrote: "When you choose to remain silent, consider yourself complicit in whatever transpires."

Moving to a STEM focus at Fernan Elementary

What's in a name? Gertrude, Agnes, Microsoft and the Banana Slugs offer different thoughts when imagining the focus of the corporation or individual owning the title. A kind and mature woman of strong focus might one imagine when thinking of the name Agnes. Microsoft offers thoughts of Bill Gates, computers, a megacorporation and philanthropy while the Fighting Banana Slugs of the University of California, Santa Cruz, bring a chuckle and possible dismissal of the school's academic prowess.

FAITHFUL OBSERVATIONS: Open Arms and Young Lives

As we approach Mother’s Day on Sunday, don’t be surprised if you see baby bottles at many of the area churches for the annual “Baby Bottle Boomerang” campaign to support the Open Arms Pregnancy Care Center and Real Choices Clinic in Coeur d’Alene.

Take a moment (or more) to pay tribute

The barbecues might be blazin’ this three-day holiday weekend while campers stretch their legs in the hills. Memorial Day Weekend is the traditional shotgun start to summer — but it commemorates a very somber reality.

LETTER: Spencer shoots, and misses

I find myself in an unfortunate position of having to respond to a letter submitted by Larry Spencer concerning the refunding of the Kootenai County impact fees. In it, Mr. Spencer more than alluded to Timbered Ridge Homes extorting our customers for the forthcoming refunds by refusing to sign off on them. The only request we have received has been from Mr. Spencer himself asking for us to sign his contract with our customers in which both he and the customers are to split the refund. None of the money being refunded was ever intended to be given to Timbered Ridge Homes and none of the refunded impact fees for any of our customers ever will be. The county and the individual districts who received the impact fees are voluntarily returning the fees directly to the home owners and not to the home builders. Timbered Ridge Homes has not, nor will not, receive any refunds on any home we constructed for our customers. That is a matter of public record.

Alpaca sweaters make the perfect gift

Looking for a unique, memorable gift? Alpaca Direct in Hayden has the answer with a large selection of Alpaca sweaters to keep your loved ones stylish, cozy and warm this winter. We offer a large selection of Alpaca sweaters at factory direct prices. Alpaca helps make the perfect cold weather apparel since it is five times stronger than wool and it won't pill like cashmere, yet its hollow core fiber is extremely warm due to its natural insulation capabilities.

DEMOCRACY: It's in voters' hands

Julie Harney asked what is a Democracy? The lines are so blurred in America today who can really say? We were actually given a Republican form of government by our founding fathers. We were also given a Constitution. Our government is supposed to be “Of the people and for the people.”

CRIME: Kudos to the boys in blue

In response to Janie Hansen’s letter questioning the effectiveness of our local law enforcement, judges and District Attorney; there are several issues that need to be taken into consideration. I am surprised you did not question the Public Defenders, criminal attorneys and the options of any type of rehabilitation offered to incarcerated offenders, who may have serious addictions that drive their crimes.

OBAMA: Rally to block treaties

Obama and Clinton are entering into negotiations over or seeking ratification of five treaties that could radically limit our national sovereignty. “International Criminal Court,” Clinton has reversed Bush’s policy and entered into negotiations over U.S. participation in the court. Specifically, the intent is to create a new crime of “aggression,” which is essentially going to war without the approval of the United Nations. This of course would give Russia and China a veto over our military actions.

Live a life worth following

A wise gentleman I knew once said that, "We should live a life worth following." When I heard this profound statement, I stopped to ponder the depth of its meaning. Do we all live a life worth following? How does that relate to the way we live and work in our daily lives? Would our children and grandchildren want to follow in our footsteps? Would we want them to?

Sweat can fulfill dreams

Let it be known that on Ironman Sunday, thousands of locals turned out to cheer for family, friends and complete sweating strangers.

The importance of county fairs: Celebrating 200 years

As you admire the draft horses or eat the elephant ear you've longed for at the North Idaho Fair this year, you should know that you are a part of history. 2011 marks the 200th anniversary of the Agricultural Fair. Quite a celebration, considering the changes our great county has seen over two centuries. The story of civilization is abounding with references to fairs, and, as something many have grown up with and still cherish, it isn't surprising that the county fair has stood the test of time.

SCHOOLS: Then, now not same

"OK, I've had it with these Teacher Unions and the teachers who belong to them." This is what Jim Blake, who is retired from the Navy, has to say about teachers... and to be honest, "I HAVE HAD IT!" My colleagues told me not to respond; however, it is time!

Patient satisfaction: Proactive vs. reactive health care

We all want health for ourselves, our family, friends and loved ones and most of us try to go about getting it the best we know how - doing research, trying to eat right, sleep enough and get the right amount of exercise.

De Vries seeks seat of retiring Harwood

Benewah County businessman Ken De Vries is running for the Idaho House seat currently held by state Rep. Dick Harwood, who has announced he's retiring from the state Legislature.

2013 Best Investment Consultant

IB's hidden agenda is anti-American

As an American I stand for the principles of freedom and liberty on which our society is erected; no enemy whatsoever can destroy such foundation as it is laid through the hearts of patriots.As a veteran I am bound to the defense of that foundation through a solemn oath to bear true faith and allegiance to our Constitution.

SCHOOLS: Parents, need your help

North Idaho is a special place and her peoples are special! We say this is a great place, because we have traveled and worked in different places on this Earth; but North Idaho is our home.

DRIVER: Tragedy narrowly averted

Every one of us at one time in our lives has done something stupid while we have been driving. Not paying attention and running a stop sign you didn’t know was there and thanking God that there was no one in the intersection… Paying more attention to our kids than the person in front of us and almost hitting them. There are thousands of scenarios.

REGAN: He's got this mom's vote

I have had the privilege and honor over the last year to really get to know and work side by side with Brent Regan as a Kootenai Republican Precinct Committeeman and as an everyday citizen in regards to county property rights,