Youth Affairs

["William K. Medlin" <dev-plan@moscow.com>]

Dear Editor Steve:  We've noticed an increase (other than in the 
sports section) on reporting/news about youth in the last couple 
weeks, and hope that our expression of interest in that community 
segment being better covered may have had some influence. I'm sure 
the kids will feel good about this. Now, if you could find a space, 
weekly or monthly, for a write-in column just for youth, to attract 
more attention to their concerns, that would be great. Why not call 
the student counsels for their reaction as to the idea and to putting 
it in motion?
    Three cheers also to Tina for her excellent piece on Dr. Benner's 
tremendous effort at building self-esteem among school kids. Data do 
show that self-esteem heads downward consistently after elementary 
grades. He's doing a yeoman's job in raising some kids' expectations.
    These are fine examples of community education and do a lot to 
improve our quality of life, and at such little cost! Thanks to you 
and all your staff for responding so well to this need!   Ken M.