Editorial: Proud to wear the purple and gold

I had the opportunity last week to attend the Jefferson Valley Community Foundation Grantee Tour and much like last year walked away impressed with all the local organization does for this community.

One of the stops on the tour was at Whitehall High School, who was the recipient of a grant that was used for the Shakespeare in the Schools program. As is the case most times I walk into the building, I witnessed a bunch of students wearing Whitehall Trojans apparel. I can say the same thing happens on a visit to the elementary or middle schools. Witnessing this never gets old. I’ve covered a lot of schools and many of them don’t have the same level of school spirit. I’ve also found the smaller the town, the better the spirit. The stands are packed with a large percentage of the community and it is something special.

With this being Homecoming week in Whitehall, I think this is a great time to say job well done to all the students, staff, parents and community members who proudly wear the Purple and Gold, not only on game day, but throughout the year.

It’s so much more than cheering for a football or basketball team, it is a sense of pride in the community. People honestly care about where they live and can wear the colors proudly, not only because they support the Trojans, but also because they support the community.

The week of Homecoming brings memories many students will cherish for a lifetime; it also brings the community together. With the community divided on a variety of issues in late 2015 and 2016, perhaps Homecoming is a great time for everyone to come together and remember just why they enjoy living here --- that’s what should matter the most.

GO TROJANS!

JHS