I was disheartened to learn that Richland-Bean Blossom Schools continues its practice of refusing to let Edgewood teams compete against Seven Oaks Classical School athletes.
The real harm here isn’t to schools or administrators — it’s to the kids. Our student-athletes train hard, dream big and look forward to testing themselves against their peers. For many, sports build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. When they’re told they cannot compete simply because they attend a public charter school, the result is confusion, frustration and disappointment. What lesson are we teaching when we close doors on children who just want to play?
Athletics is supposed to model teamwork, character and respect. Instead, this policy teaches division. Rather than showing that rivalries can be healthy and inspiring, it suggests that fear of competition justifies shutting others out. Our community’s young people deserve better. True leadership sets aside grudges and puts children first. It models courage by welcoming challenges, fairness by offering equal opportunities and generosity by celebrating the success of all kids.
It’s time to end this practice. Let’s put kids first, open the doors and simply let the kids play.
Chad Bollhorst, Bloomington
If religious zealots are a danger to our national security, it’s time to designate evangelical Christian extremists with the same label. Nowhere do I see tolerance for other religous ideologies from evangelical Christians. Therein lies the danger: Any group who believes their God is on their side is a danger to all individual liberty.
Jeff Kaden, Bloomington
Regarding a recent billing from UPS for duties and tariffs:
After receiving a package, I received an additional bill from UPS to pay a fee, which is nearly as much as the small jacket I ordered. How does the public know if the fee is legitimate? And how can they keep from being scammed? I feel my purchasing power has been extorted.
I’m sure many are unaware. They, too, will learn that the world is closing around us. Just my opinion. I hope I’m still free to have it in today’s America, where I lose one small freedom seemingly on a daily basis. I’m sending out an S.O.S to all that cherish their freedom.
David Chen, Bloomington
Letters to the editor include athletic competition, religious zealots, tariffs – The Herald-Times
