Letter to the Editor: Honor more than the athletes, says writer

As the 80th alumni banquet nears, you’re about to honor 20 of Odessa’s most talented athletes! As a member of the class of ‘67, I’m compelled to write about the “intense” bullying a group of us endured by a few members of the class of ‘66! The constant bullying started in the sixth grade [and continued] through high school, PE and sports events! It left me with lasting scars and a struggle to attain a positive self-image. You know who you are bullies. An apology to me and the others would be nice!

I understand that anti-bullying rules are now in place in Odessa. I hope the school staff understands and enforces them.

The irony of Donald Trump, “the ultimate bully,” running for the Republican nomination for president, and nearly 80 percent of Lincoln County Republicans voting for him, tells me that rule though fear and intimidation is still your preferred method of political control in the 21st century! When we boomers left Odessa, the job and business opportunities left with us! Life would never be the same as it was in the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Remember when we had six different gas stations to choose from! First and foremost, businesses exist and move to foreign countries to maximize the profits for their shareholders! High tech also eliminates jobs. Globalization happens so factories can produce the cheapest products you insist on at Wal-Mart, etc. Please don’t scapegoat minorities for lack of work. You may even have to move to the city and live with them!

As you recognize athletic talent in a few weeks (any women on the list?), please take a moment to reflect also on alumni with academic and social talents needed to live in the larger world!

Bruce Porter

Honolulu