This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

What makes a hero?

Sat., Feb. 1, 2020

A newscaster at KREM yesterday called Kobe Bryant “one of our greatest heroes.” Is being proficient in your occupation the new benchmark for achieving hero status? If Bryant is “one of our greatest heroes,” what do we call those who actually risk their lives (and sometimes forfeit them) in protecting the rest of us?

Lloyd Hoppner

Colville, Wash.

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

No more than 250 words
We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form: Submit your letter here
Mail: Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email: letters@spokesman.com
Fax: (509) 459-5098
Phone: (509) 459-5403