We conducted a couple of regional and nationwide searches a few years ago. The problem is you get to meet someone, but you really don't get to know somebody.

We've also had the opportunity to work with Dr. Long for six years. We've seen him grow professionally. I have the utmost confidence that Dr. Long is the right choice for this job.

(Dr. Long) has assured us that educational leadership has to be a top priority. It is our priority. We believe it is his priority. I hope that we can embrace this choice.

I believe that a year from now we will be discussing the same level of confidence we have here tonight, and the community will feel the choice was a good one, as does this board.

He clearly still harbors a very personal grudge from the December negotiations. And that doesn't augur well for the near future.

Kiss is a Fourth of July fireworks show with a backbeat.