C. Larson, Apr. 3, 2005

Editor....

First, let me say, I have read everything on the website and reached several conclusions, the most important of which is that I feel you are fair and balanced. I don't sense as much of a "mission" as I do the willingness to seek information. That's encouraging. So, I want to share some additional thoughts with you.........

I have reached a point, where I feel both sides have some solid credibility. I have to say, the aginers are more suspect in that they don't seem to have much reason or logic...........but, the "fors" are seemingly are just for "tradition". so, in my mind, neither have a real strong position. Let me offer some additional thoughts:

One, all over this Country we have everything in sight named with an Indian name or derivative. Are they all wrong. I'm not sure, but I think most would be happy to continue to call Pestawanai Peak, just that. Sure it's named after an American Indian....but to honor her service....not to insult her. And, the same is true of States (shall we change several States names) or Cities....or rivers, or highways, or streets, or regional areas, or landmarks, or buildings, or who knows what else. So, I conclude that the naming and affiliation with an Indian name is generally "OK".

Now, to "Mascots". Well, if it's Barney Bear...or the Monkey....or the Gorilla....or whatever. And, they are primarily a "joke".......also a slam dunk, they are frivolous...jokes. Lets don't use Indians or any ethnic affiliation. In my opinion the Chief isn't much of a Mascot. He doesn't' do all the crazy things, other Mascots do, at games. He isn't very funny.....he doesn't play to the audience the way the "clowns" do. He is a symbol...he is dignified....he has poise....he is impressive.....all the characteristics of a "symbol"..........none of a "mascot"

As a Mascot, the Chief, rates a 1
As a symbol, the Chief rates a 10

So,

We're making progress.

Now, Chief Illliniwek.......is he improperly garbed......well, he's a lot better than Wade Churchill. Or a lot of other folks who have "stood up" for the Native American movement. Is he a dirty-mouth........hummmmm, not really. He doesn't speak. Does he do inappropriate things..........not really. He is dignified, restricted and actually a pretty good symbol.

As a mascot, the Chief struck out. He ain't so good. give him a 1.4

As a symbol, the chief is on top, he's the best.........give him a 10.

Ah, ha........."symbol". maybe that's the answer Let him be a Symbol....but not a mascot. Develop rules/parameters that must be adhered to and allow him to continue, as a symbol Resolve all the leg mate complains (if there are any) by establishing strict guidelines.

We've already agreed the use of a name an affiliation is "OK" if properly done. Lets rework the chief, as needed, to accomplish that purpose. And, with the exception of some "Politically correct junkies" who will stop at nothing to be "PC", we'll have a solution for the ages.

Thanks, for your good work

Charles B. Larson Scottsdale ax larsoncb@earthlink.net

C. Larson, via email.