Letters to the Editor
(Editor’s Note: Views and commentary, including statements made as fact, are strictly those of the letter-writers.)
* * *
Typed, double-spaced letters written solely to this newspaper and/or Website are considered for publication. Hand-written letters that are double-spaced and legible also can be considered.
Cards of thanks are not accepted as letters.
* * *
Need for natural habitat espoused
From Sue Norman-Jones
Cave Junction
Weeks ago I was honored with seeing a bald eagle in Takilma. So surprised, I had to pull over and watch this graceful and strong creature rise higher and higher, then dash across the sky over the mountains.
The sighting awakened a place of awe in me. I have only seen one eagle in 25 years of living here. Are they making a comeback?
As this eagle is rare, so are many species. Endangered species need our protection before they become extinct. Natural habitat is diminishing. This wilderness needs to stay as close to untouchable as possible.
Not only do old-growth forests slow global warming by absorbing the excess carbon dioxide, they also provide places for other beings to live and thrive.
Extinction is forever. I believe that global warming is real. Let us protect what is left, before it is too late. This is a public forest; it belongs to all living things.
Mother queries school rule on zero tolerance
From Anna M. Hurt
Cave Junction
I am writing out of pure frustration. My son is one of the finest young gentlemen you will come across; full of love, respect and kindness.
While he was talking to his friends at Lorna Bryne Middle School, a kid came from behind and poked him in the back, hard enough to break the skin. My son turned around, and saw that he had a doorstop.
Not your usual one, it had a screw that was at least 2 inches long and as big around as your pinky finger.
When this other child was not putting it away, my son ran -- out of fear. The kid ran after him with his hand raised and stabbed him in the back. The reason for this is, “Just because.”
The principal’s words were that he was just being squirrelly. I thought there is supposed to be zero tolerance in school. Maybe for some, not for others. Which should be for all.
Maybe he didn’t bring a weapon, but he found something to use as a weapon. This kid got only three days suspension for being squirrelly. This is a serious situation. It was absolutely not appropriate behavior.
My son is fine; had to go to a doctor and get a tetanus shot, miss school, and we are both wondering why the heck is this OK. Our children are supposed to be safe in school, not worrying about those who want to assault, or being squirrelly in the eyes of the principal.