Viewpoint: Forget the harm principle -- just ask if it's wise

In his well known essay “On Liberty,” the 19th century utilitarian-libertarian philosopher J.S. Mill famously wrote that “ … the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community against his will, is to prevent harm to others … in [whatever] merely concerns himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign … .”

Feb. 1 letters to the editor: Pulkrabek case problems, caucus attendance encouraged

City shouldn’t let Pulkrabek court case fade away Help define new direction for government next week District’s strengths makes Porter contract decision even more puzzling Reinstate Porter, recognize missteps What happened to our School Board?

OUR VIEW: No sign of sour grapes at District 834

You’ve got to hand it to the folks at the Stillwater Area School District.

Jan. 25 letters to the editor: Kudos for 'classy' Woodbury kids, plastic bag concerns, more ...

Woodbury hockey players were a northwoods class act Ban or restrict plastic bags in Washington County School Board meeting ought to be packed with concerns about decision

Soucheray: The hardest part of being a pet owner

What do we do when a beloved pet is sick and must be euthanized?

• Talk about this topic

Jan. 18 letters to the editor: Porter fallout continues, scout salutes martial arts

Was Porter contract decision politically motivated? Her children attend District 833 because of Porter Martial arts is a real kick for this kid

Jan. 11 letters to the editor: Transplant program praised, School Board criticism continues

New Minnesota transplant option worth your $2 District 833 board members should either reconsider decision — or their jobs Porter an outstanding leader and asset to District 833

Viewpoint: School Board can, should reconsider Porter decision

I have characterized this action as “the worst decision the Board has made during my 16 years of service.” After a month of reflection and feedback from hundreds of citizens, I now believe my characterization understates the damage this decision will have on the quality of education we provide for our students.

Viewpoint: Streamlining ahead in the ‘New Normal’

A phrase you may hear in 2012 is “The New Normal.”

Jan. 4 Letters to the editor: Roundabout safety, teen bullying, superintendent contract

Questions still surround pedestrian safety at roundabouts Wake up to teen depression issues District 833 School Board’s decision held in ‘disdain’

Our View: Make wise choices in 2012

What a year it was.

Dec. 28 letters to the editor: School Board criticism, tax system questioned, more ...

School Board’s decision sends a concerning message Can families, like lawmakers, also change budgeting rules? Thanks for going to bat for Gary Where are board’s transparency, fair play standards? Voters won’t forget board’s decision Superintendent move baffling, disappointing School Board should revisit Porter action Schools got worse in one fell swoop

Dec. 21 letters to the editor: Porter decision criticism, tax system promoted, more ...

Porter decision lacks transparency, vision School Board should not refuse to discuss Porter contract issue New market value exclusion provides residents tax relief Special interests have a right to influence

OUR VIEW: School Board owes public explanation for Porter decision

District 833 residents received surprising news last week when School Board members voted 5-2 not to renew Superintendent Mark Porter’s contract.

Viewpoint: Decision gives corporations more rights than average citizens

Thomas St. Martin unwittingly makes the case against his own argument ("Ditch the hammer and nails approach," Dec. 7) when he states: “unless one speaks through an organizational megaphone, corporate or otherwise, one is likely to become just another voice crying in the wilderness.”