When I think back to last year's election for Carbon County Commissioner, quite frankly I am stupefied that neither one of the Republican candidates for that position bothered to display their educational records.

One did however make a humorous statement along the lines that he didn't go to college because people form this area didn't go to college back then. I think he graduated from high school sometime around 1980.

The fact that some don't seek a higher education in their younger years, doesn't make for an excuse for not pursuing one later in life, especially if you want to be taken seriously for a leadership position.

Things aren't all rosy in the halls of academia—the marketplace of ideas where, as a student, you must present your views to professors and classmates alike. When I think about it, the reason I pursued education is to learn something. That means allowing others to challenge you, no matter what your political persuasion. This is essential in forming your world view, and can only make you a better, more-qualified professional.

I just finished taking a course at Kutztown University that qualifies me to work as a domestic and sexual violence advocate. I enrolled in the course to build on my conflict resolution skills and training. I have been steadily expanding my professional training and education in this area over the years, and I feel that expertise in conflict resolution and problem solving, especially within diversified groups, is invaluable.

Taking the domestic and sexual violence advocate class was a great experience. Participants in the class shared their life stories. I learned a lot from the women in the class who were victims of domestic violence. I also learned some very valuable "life lessons" from those who have risen out of poverty to pursue their education. About two-thirds of the students in the class were Hispanic.

When I started in policing, I remember potential employers saying they were seeking candidates with life experience or educational experience in working with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I used to get offended because I felt that that was just a stealthy way of saying that they wanted minorities over whites.

I have learned that this is not true. Actually, the principle experience or life skill that any professional can bring to the table, is practicable experience in solving problems and working with persons from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

When you engage others intellectually, you find out that the persons on the other side of the political aisle are really not much different from yourself.

When are the voters of this County going to demand a slate of candidates that maintain diverse life experiences, different ideas and no loyalty to political dynasties or over privileged unsophisticated white people?

Where is our hope and change? No more good ol' boys in Carbon County!

Steve Armbruster