18-year-old Seeks Election to Bring Unique Voice to Book Controversy in Howell

Following the huge controversy over a number of books being challenged in Howell County, MI, Phil Nichols, an 18-year-old student sought a seat on the Board of Education.

Nichols, who was 17 at the time of the deadline for filing, and too young to run, was written in by 174 people. Although he came in last of six candidates, he found the experience very positive for a write-in ballot. He plans to study political science and get a degree in teaching and hopes to go into public service, according to a story by WoodTV.

While the idea to run for the Howell school bard started as half-serious idea, the controversy over a number of books being challenged at Howell High School by the Livingston Organization for Values in Education (LOVE) was instrumental in helping him to think seriously about running for the school board. Nichols is opposed to the banning of books at the school but believed that he would be able to bring a unique perspective to the table.

Why Waldo?

The presence of Where's Waldo on the list of banned books has always baffled me. Although I personally find the task of finding Waldo annoying, I don't think that is a good enough reason to keep other people from finding it in the school or local public library. Here is the reason. Instead of looking for Waldo, try looking for the topless woman instead. Remember these are cartoon people.




According to Chronology of Censorship and Anti-Censorship, it was challenged in 1989 at the Public Libraries of Saginaw, Michigan.