Second of two parts
Re “Off With Their Heads”
I think School Board member Steve Gourley actually believes it when he says that he always tells the truth.
But don’t they all?
Just as the latest well-known biblical scholar prophesied the apocalypse was coming on May 21, Mr. Gourley probably believes that he, too, is spreading the gospel truth.
… And Nothing but the Truth
Does Mr. Gourley really expect David Mielke, as a union rep and union president, to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth when speaking publicly?
That’s crazy!
That’s not Mr. Mielke’s role as the union public rep and president.
Just Doing His Job
Just as Mr. Gourley should understand that a good attorney will attempt to represent his client in the most favorable light in a court of law, so, too, it is Mr. Mielke’s job to represent his union members’ views in the most favorable light in the court of public opinion.
Both reps are expected, by their clients, to filter what is presented in each court so that a favorable decision comes about by those seated in judgment, whether it is the public, a judge, a jury, or a School Board.
Tunnel Vision
I wonder in his single-minded, personal vendetta against Mr. Mielke whether Mr. Gourley has even given any consideration to the fact that when he says that the Teachers’ Union president is lying, that he is also saying those members of the Teachers Union whose views Mr. Mielke represents are lying?
This rogue member’s self-serving, public posturing can only lead to even more bitter negotiations between the Board and the Teachers Union.
Don’t Get Me Wrong
During negotiations, I don’t expect the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth from either organization. Both sides have shaded the truth during past negotiations. They probably will continue to do so in the future. And for what? All for the appearance of having won a slight negotiating advantage in public. How is it that other school districts seem to go through the same kinds of negotiations and theirs end amicably, without all the public drama we have seen played out in our district?
Caveat Emptor
So you might be asking yourself, “Whom can I believe?” When it comes to negotiations, let me put it this way: I wouldn’t put any more trust in what either party says publicly than I would if I were buying a used car from Cal Worthington.
Mr. Laase may be contacted at gmlaase@aol.com
