Readers respond to an Idaho man not convicted of a hate crime after yelling racial slurs at a group of teenagers in a Coeur d'Alene McDonalds:
RICHARD ROLLAND: This guy should do time. His sidekick, too. This is not the Idaho I grew up in.
TOM HEARN: I wonder about this verdict but I also have a huge respect for the jury system. They had more information than the general public and I assume that they had a good reason to acquit him of the more serious charge.
JEFF FERGUSON: What's the point in having a law if you don't enforce it? How much [more] hateful did he have to be? Those kids will never forget that day for the rest of their lives. As he, I'm sure, has already moved on to hate again.
Readers respond to a story about Gonzaga's president denying any knowledge of criminally accused priests being housed on campus:
KELLI CRAWFORD: Didn't ask, didn't check. What an embarrassment to our community.
DAN KERNS: This is a huge embarrassment to the university. A further investigation needs to be done. Emails looked at from everyone involved. Including the university president. Pretty messed up.
The So-Called 'Happy Holidays'
My wish for this holiday season, all the time really, is that we be kind to each other. All of us have problems, many of which may not be visible. Even the most prosperous, happy-seeming person could be suffering from depression, grief, loneliness or other pain. It could be someone you know. A kind word, a smile and an affirmation can help lift spirits and possibly even save a life.
My idea of the best gift possible is to reach out to others, let them know you see them and care about them, and spend time with them if you can. The so-called "happy holidays" aren't happy for many people. Kindness can help turn that around. So please, offer a little extra kindness to strangers and to your own family members, friends and co-workers. Whether they are in pain or not, you will help brighten their day. Best wishes for a peaceful holiday season.
Karen Shill
Spokane, Wash.
