Suggestions for a new NMHS gymnasium

I know it is early to start thinking about what will replace the gym at North Medford High that collapsed, but I have a couple suggestions that might even raise some money for the school.

When they build the new gym, offer the public and alumni the chance to have their names and graduation years carved in a brick that they could buy and then put these bricks in the new lobby area of the gym on the floor where the old concession area was and around the new trophy case.

Also, sell 1-foot squares of the old gym floor to the public, if it can be salvaged, as I am sure there are people interested in having something to remember the old gym from. I think both of these would be popular as I would participate in this if it was available and the school could make some money off it to help replace lost items from the collapse of the roof.

It won’t make a ton of money but it would be better than nothing and give the community a connection to the school and show the current students they are in our thoughts.

Medford School District, if you are listening, at least give it a thought.

 Bruce Clemans / Snohomish, Washington

Take action against age discrimination

I am writing to urge action against age discrimination in Oregon’s workplaces and to call for updates to our outdated laws.

I am a senior who is very active in this community volunteering with several service groups. I am a healthcare professional with decades of experience, and I know older workers like me who have valuable skills to contribute to the workforce. Yet, right here in Oregon, we older workers face age discrimination and that isn’t fair.

I have listened to the stories of many older workers, who have reported experiencing or witnessing age discrimination. I have learned that in Oregon, 55% of workers over 40 have made these reports and that age discrimination severely impacts women and people of color. Older workers take longer to find jobs. Some are pushed into early retirement or forced into lower-paying jobs. Health statistics show that people are living longer. Most people will need to work longer to be secure, but age discrimination is threatening the financial security of many.

More than 10 years ago, a U.S. Supreme Court ruling made it tougher to prove age discrimination. Oregon courts have followed this stricter approach, leaving older workers with limited options for legal help.

Workplace age discrimination has no place in Oregon. Let’s fix the law so all workers are treated fairly based on their qualifications, not stereotypes. I urge readers to support legislative efforts in 2025 to strengthen protections for older workers. Let’s take a stand and give them a chance.

Dr. Geneva Craig / Medford