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• Goodbye to new friends and old in the coming year

  Goodbye to new friends and old in the coming year

  Readers might have noticed a new face and name Friday in our annual Christmas reflections.

  But they probably missed the wistful look on a familiar face in the editorial board's group photo.

  The newcomer, Kayla Pratt, is the board's first reader representative. We started her on a three-month trial last spring, and we've been fortunate enough to talk her into an extended stay.

• West Ricland council: Hayden

  West Ricland council: Hayden

  Recently, the Tri-City Herald editorial board suggested I "log more hours working on municipal issues" before running against the incumbent for West Richland City Council, Position 6. While I respect that suggestion, part of my campaign is to provide West Richland with a fresh perspective in dealing with the issues that are problematic.

  Just last year, when Shon Small challenged long-term incumbent Max Benitz for Benton County commissioner, you the editorial board wrote, "Yes, experience is important. But so are energy and enthusiasm and fresh perspectives." And by the way, Commissioner Small who has known me for several years, has endorsed me for city council.

  But back to the board's recommendation. I was surprised, and quite frankly disappointed, that the editorial didn't report on any of the ideas I shared with your board -- ideas for growth, the budget and for keeping our community safe.

• Thursday refreshes

  Thursday refreshes

  The Tri-City Herald depresses me. I do realize this is not your fault as you do not create the news (mostly), you simply report the news. It is depressing to read about the problems of the world. The shootings, burglaries, drugs, robberies ... that are going on.

  I have enjoyed reading the letters to the editor on Thankful Thursday. It has been refreshing to read about the good things that happen in our communities. It is good to hear about people helping people whether it be friends family or complete strangers. Keep it up.

  Mike Dixon, Kennewick

• 2011 Best of Thankful Thursday: Thursday refreshes

  2011 Best of Thankful Thursday: Thursday refreshes

  The Tri-City Herald depresses me. I do realize this is not your fault as you do not create the news (mostly), you simply report the news. It is depressing to read about the problems of the world. The shootings, burglaries, drugs, robberies ... that are going on.

  I have enjoyed reading the letters to the editor on Thankful Thursday. It has been refreshing to read about the good things that happen in our communities. It is good to hear about people helping people whether it be friends family or complete strangers. Keep it up.

  Mike Dixon, Kennewick

• Opposed to Kennewick club

  Opposed to Kennewick club

  Traditionally, the Tri-Cities has been a conservative community, so it's important that the citizens have a clearer understanding of the Gay Straight Alliance's agenda. What many don't realize is that the GSA is more insidious than "just another club." Their primary goal is to force their way into our children's curriculum and will use bullying tactics if needed. Ironically, this tactic is exactly what they oppose.

  However, this isn't a political issue, it's a spiritual condition. No one has addressed whether the GSA is morally right or wrong. We must take a stand on our ethical convictions. In order to do that, we must be able to discern truth from lies. We must put an end to the moral schizophrenia of "relativism" that has overwhelmed the American culture. We must make principled decisions and not use feelings-based reasoning that says, "Do whatever feels right for you."

  I am asking Christians and the ethically-minded in our community to take a stand for what's right. The next Kennewick School Board