This year’s turkeys and heroes are a reflection of the changes the University of Idaho is going through. Then again, some things never change.
Turkeys
State Board of Education: UI students are willing to spend a little more in order to get a little more. Just like last year, the SBOE denied the requested fee increase. Perhaps they should try approving the increase just to see what happens.

Tim White: White has faced and dealt with more than his fair share of controversy during his time as president of the university, which would have put him on the heroes side. A real hero, however, would firmly state his intentions to stay, if he had any.
UI Athletics PR: The UI community wants to read the good stories about athletes even more than they want to hear more bad news. Cutting off communication is not the way to get the good stories out.

Everyone involved with the Life on Wheels situation: It takes only a little miscommunication to drive a summer tradition — and big money — right out of town. Way to go, turkeys.

Heroes
Robb Akey: Sometimes you have to take big risks — such as jeopardizing scholarships — to get a program back on track. Akey made tough decisions during his first year as Vandal football coach and he has earned respect for making them. If nothing else, at least he will be here next year.
Lloyd Mues: The vice president of finance and administration was one of last year’s turkeys. His role in facing the SBOE and in matters concerning the bookstore have helped make him a hero this year.

Dean Throop: ASUI would be a much more effective organization if more senators were like Throop. From fall’s Moscow city noise ordinance hearings, dealing with new parking regulations and an almost hyperactive concern over the bookstore, Throop has been one of the most prominent and concerned members of ASUI ever.
UI track and field: Another of last year’s heroes, the track and field team continues to set an example of on-field excellence and off-field character. When was the last time a story about a track and field team member made the news for breaking the law?

Officer Lee Newbill: Newbill is the only Moscow police officer to have lost his life in the line of duty. It is sad that he had to die for him to be recognized but that is life in law enforcement.
Hopefully, it will be a long time before another officer needs to be recognized in the same way.
Learn from Mues. It is never too late not to be a turkey.
—TJT

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