‘With malice toward none, with charity for all’

by Kurt Thigpen | Aug 30, 2020 | Memo from the Middle

'With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and...

As Washoe schools reopen, put students first, unions later

by Kurt Thigpen | Aug 16, 2020 | Memo from the Middle

"It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends." — J.K. Rowling, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" Ditto that to what new Washoe County School Superintendent Kristen McNeil must...

Is political tribalism, loyalty crippling Nevada?

by Kurt Thigpen | Aug 2, 2020 | Memo from the Middle

This opinion column was submitted by RGJ columnist Pat Hickey, a former member of the Nevada Assembly. Out of many, one. The Latin phrase "e pluribus unum," was adopted as the country's first motto. The Founders' idea of pluralism was reflected in...

Nevadans’ resilience will save us

by Kurt Thigpen | Jul 29, 2020 | Memo from the Middle

Make no mistake — we're in a war. Bombs and bullets aren't attacking us. Instead, it's an invisible enemy we haven't quite figured out how to fight. Opposing armies of Germans, Japanese or even Confederates would be easier to beat on the...

The Legislature lost its ability to dance

by Kurt Thigpen | Jul 26, 2020 | Memo from the Middle

This opinion column was submitted by RGJ columnist Pat Hickey, a former Nevada assemblyman. It does take two to tango. It's that exotic dance that requires partners moving in relation to each other, sometimes in tandem, sometimes in opposition. Just like...