Huge thanks to The Islands’ Sounder for including The Viking Voice with its regular edition.

I appreciate the fact that anyone who reads our local newspaper also has the opportunity to read our public high school students’ publication. Here is a recent example from one student, which I wish to applaud.

The mature level of critical thinking, deep understanding and forward-looking vision that Hans Sprenger expressed was inspiring. For anyone who did not read this well-written piece itself, below are a few quotes which illustrate why I was so impressed:

“The assassination of Charlie Kirk: a turning point for our country,” by Hans Sprenger, The Viking Voice, Editorials, October 29, 2025.

“The bullet which ended Charlie Kirk’s life was not just aimed at him. It struck the free market of ideas itself.”

“Although I did not always agree with him … here is what mattered; he allowed the opposing side a voice … he set the mic down and listened.”

“… agree or disagree on his politics, there is not a question on Kirk’s ability to cross lines for open debate and draw politics into the Gen Z mainstream. And that reason, a nonpartisan reason, is why he is mourned.”

“He brought free discourse to campuses nationwide. His death, alongside other targeted political attacks this year, shows what polarization can do to a country. If we respond only by blaming, shouting, and digging in our heels, then his assassin has taken more than just his life.”

“We [on Orcas and in San Juan County] out of the whole country, should not be polarized through his death. We should cross the aisle. Speak with our neighbors. Debate without hatred. Remember that disagreement is not total destruction. The legacy of Charlie Kirk, if it is to mean anything, should not be fireworks and rabid division but to reopen the marketplace, and to talk to one another rather than aiming.”

Jean Henigson

Orcas Island