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SATURDAY December 6, 2003 - Subscribe - Contact Us Valley&State Backpage O&E Sports Archives Classifieds Faith&Beliefs Obituaries Revels November 21, 2003 Goldschmidt has enough power to help with schools Gov. Ted Kulongoski has backed up his words in support of higher education by appointing Neil Goldschmidt to the State Board of Higher Education, with a prod to the soon-to-be new board to make Goldschmidt the chairman. The governor has asked five board members to resign, though Goldschmidt will fill a position that's already vacant. There don't appear to be any burning issues between Kulongoski and the current board - just the belief the board needs a stronger direction and better connection to the Legislature. He should get it from Goldschmidt, one of Oregon's strongest political figures. Goldschmidt, an attorney and international trade consultant, probably fills the same role among Democrats that retired Sen. Mark Hatfield does among Republicans. Both former public officials are tremendously influential, even beyond their party affiliation, though neither holds elective office. Goldschmidt was elected Oregon governor in 1987 and chose not to run for a second term. He left the office by choice, not by voter dictate or under a cloud of scandal. Even though he is a Democrat with the party's traditional ties to labor and liberal causes, Goldschmidt bridged the gap to Oregon's business community. Kulongoski feels higher education needs a more forceful presence with the state Legislature. That fits in with his - and Goldschmidt's - belief in the importance of education to Oregon's economy. Goldschmidt's impact should be felt throughout the system. - The (Klamath Falls) Herald and News DailyTidings.com Home Page Valley&State | Backpage | O&E | Sports | Archives | Weather | Classifieds Columnists | Faith&Beliefs | Obituaries | Revels | Subscribe | Contact Us Copyright 2003 Ashland Daily Tidings and Ottaway Newspapers All Rights Reserved Site Search: .:Advertisements:. RESOURCES - Road Cams