In support of an outstanding local institution, I would like to shout “Hallelujah!” The contributions Columbia Gorge Community College makes to our local residents is worth every penny we allow it.

I’ve been taking courses there for some time. On the whole the instruction has been just great. I say this on the basis of comparison with two state universities I attended years ago.

Most especially, I commend the students. Over and over again, I meet young men becoming EMT’s in hopes of a better life for their families; I meet divorced women who hope to support their kids by becoming nurses or accounting technicians.

I meet young men learning the techniques for maintaining wind power windmills. I meet kids finishing high school in an environment more suitable to their needs as well as adults with disabilities learning a new trade.

Some of these people have spent their lives in the trenches of spousal abuse.

They are liberating themselves. Husbands desert them, wives die, bodies are injured, but they go back to school where they work like dogs. I am so much more inspired by these people and what our local college does than I ever was by the privileged kids with whom I attended college many years ago.

Hurray for our college. Hurray for these amazing people taking advantage of an opportunity. Hurray!

Thanks to parks

Thank you Hood River County. On behalf of the families living in the Upper Valley, I wish to thank the Hood River County Parks for helping to keep our kids safe by installing the fence along Tollbridge Park.

Old Glory time

It’s Old Glory Marching Band time again. Time to get re-acquainted with your first love ... okay, maybe not but it is time to dust off the reeds, mouth pieces, drumsticks and come out and play in the “Old Glory Marching Band” at the July Fourth parade.

Two rehearsals, to be announced but probably on two Tuesday nights in June. Now I know what you are saying ... “Oh, I am not good enough,” — yes, you are! Junior high, high school, adults, no tests, no pre-qualification, just playing some music, doing a little marching and having a good time.

Call me at 490-0343 or e-mail me at ceo@gorge.net. Let me know what instrument you play please.