I struggled this week with a focus for my message. I originally thought of hodgepodge because my mind continued to bounce from one idea to another. I looked to Hank, my grandson to get me back on track this morning. He spent the night with us as his parents were busy with work. At six am this morning he stood up in bed and said to his Oooma—I want up. A diaper change and some milk and he is headed back to dreamland. Hank is a happy person without many cares in his expanding world. This week was filled with real world issues and information. I am hoping that Hank can grow up to lead the league in civics and civility.
I heard from a long time business associate and friend this week. Bob had read the Classic message and made a comment and took the time to reconnect. Bob also shared for my input a letter he had written about political leadership and his view of the need for change in leadership. I won’t go into further detail but I agreed with him that we all need to be involved to reverse the slide of collaboration and civility in our system. I encourage those of you who read the Friday message to keep me grounded and informed.
I mentioned the hodgepodge and it started with education topics. I attended an Idaho Business for Education breakfast where we reviewed the progress that Idaho has made on the K-12 education initiatives. Getting Idaho to a 60% “go on” rate is a stated goal and supported by the State School Board, the Governor, the business community and the IBE. The jobs of tomorrow will require that our students attend post secondary education today. There is some very good data that directly links the education levels in a State to the economic vibrancy. I want Hank to be fully prepared to enter college and then be able to find a great job in Idaho in the field of his choice. Progress has been made and there is still a long journey ahead to transform the education system.
This week the Wild West Auction is held in Boise and we expect nearly 1000 people to attend. This is a primary fund raiser for the Boys and Girls Club of Ada County. The Club continues to serve the youth of our area with a safe place to learn after school and a source of hope for their futures. If you haven’t had a chance to tour the facility in Garden City or the new facility in Meridian, I encourage you to stop by and see the kids as they learn life skills and develop leadership and collaboration skills. I always think of Mayor Ted Ellis and the difference people can make in a community. Ted helped start the Club and the impact he expected has been realized. Today Mayor Tammy DeWeerd carries on that legacy with her unfailing work for the Club. Check out the silent auction if you can’t get a ticket to the event.
I continue to spend some time at St. Luke’s as a volunteer on their Board. I mentioned last week that I spent some quality care time in the Emergency Room. I have also talked about my brother Jeff, his recovery continues and he is now at the St. Luke’s Elks Hospital under their supervision. I have likened the rehab process to my daily work out routine. Many days I do not want to go but I know the importance of wellness and to stay the course. I am fortunate to have Sara my trainer and my daughters-Katie and Megan to encourage me and keep me going. Each of us can and should provide words of encouragement as our friends and family pursue their personal and business goals.
Sandra Day O’Connor was in Boise in recent years to talk about civics and our rights and duties as citizens of this great country. iCivics is an on line resource for teachers and students as they learn about our government and how to get involved. I mention this as a closing pitch for each of us getting involved in the education and participation that has made our country great. The best thing that has come of this wild election process has been people talking about candidates and issues and getting out to vote in primaries and caucuses. If only there were some civility in the discourse at the candidate level we would all benefit.
“The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don’t give up!”
and finally
“Today will never come again. Be a blessing. Be a friend. Encourage someone. Take time to care. Let your words heal, and not wound.” Words of wisdom Mahr
Retirement is only stressful when I think about tasks to do and not enjoying each moment.
Have a great week end — Mike