The request from my spouse was for this week’s message to not discuss politics. It is a reasonable request since we have changed most of our daily habits to avoid the news cycle. I may have cheated a few times to make sure the “Gaetz” was going to close on one nomination. So without further ado.
The City Club of Boise held the Annual Stimpson Award for Civic Engagement on Thursday night. The rainy, blustery weather did not deter the sell out crowd from attending the event. Ed and Dottie Stimpson believed that “things happen when people start talking and listening.” The group they founded “brings people together for non partisan conversations, rooted in civility, about local, state and national issues that matter.” Just a reminder, civility is defined as “professional, ethical, respectful, and courteous interactions.”
This year’s honorees are Esther and Skip Oppenheimer. The tribute to their legacy for service to community, advocacy, and philanthropy was highlighted by friends, family, and the former Governor of Idaho. I could have offered my own testimonial. Working with Skip at St. Luke’s, Idaho Business for Education, the Boise Chamber and others, I can attest to the humble, insightful, and magnetic leadership he provides. Esther is a pillar of the art community and a beloved role model for many in Idaho. Esther and Skip are truly a dynamic duo. Cheers to them.
My daughter Katie was a very impressive “flyer” in her high school and college careers. It has been a few year since she did a toss Cupie, one-arm extension Liberty, Double down, Switch kick Double Twist basket, or Arabian layout—thank heaven. This fall Katie talked her Sister, Megan, into getting involved in an adult cheerleading camp. My forty something children are Cheerleaders. I had to miss their performance last week end but I am in possession of the video, they were quite amazing. Not to be political, but these are Mom’s who are gainfully employed, raising enlightened children, and finding a bit of time for themselves. Shockingly, they both have a cat!! Hurrah for them.
The kids do not laugh when I chant my granfatherly cheer—Ro ra ree—kick them in the knee—Unfortunately they no longer finish the deal with ro ra ras-kick them in the other knee. From my college days, a call against our team led Tiny the cheer squad guy to exhort us to scream “elevator, elevator, we got the shaft.” I could go on but will not.
I fear for the future of our country—extremism abounds. Harriet Tubman engineered the Underground Railroad to rescue family and friends from slavery. As dark as those days were Tubman reminded us “if you get tired—keep going; if you are scared—keep going; if you are hungry—keep going; if you want to taste freedom—keep going.” In the pursuit of protecting our nation we must—keep going!!
Cheers to Hank, he turns 11 on 11/22, that will not happen again!! Happy Birthday to the amazing Hank Wonderlich. We plan to enjoy the snow this week end at Brundage. Mike