October 20: Peace in progress, pain at pump, single payer

The selection of Pres. Obama for the Nobel Peace Prize has generated a number of critical comments the world around. Many felt that the committee should have waited until the end of his term to see what will happen. The feeling was that he has accomplished little or nothing in the way of world peace.

I suspect he was nominated for this prize because of the potential he brought for dealing with the world in a new way, potential that was underscored by his resounding election.

Since then, he has not resolved the nuclear crisis with Iran, BUT he has garnered the support and cooperation of Britain, France, and Russia in opposition to Iran -- a notable accomplishment. He has not "disarmed" North Korea, BUT his cooperative spirit has caused China, Japan, and South Korea to work together to resist their nuclear ambitions -- something I didn't think I would ever see! U.S. troops have not yet been withdrawn from Iraq & Afghanistan, but he may be the first President to actually give careful, thoughtful analysis to further troop commitments in a time of war.

On this current trajectory, he may well do more for the cause of world peace than all previous U.S. presidents combined!

- Ronald Nitz

Let reps know you're tired of pain at the pump

I have lived in Anchorage for over 11 years and the more time goes by, the more I wonder about people's integrity. What I am talking about is our government leaders, especially at the state level. How many have been indicted or convicted of doing favors for oil companies or oil service companies?

Right now we are paying the same for gas as we did when oil was $110 a barrel, WHY? It's because they can and no one will do anything to them. There are two oil refineries in Alaska that supply the gas to the gas stations. It makes me wonder if an agreement has been made between them on their prices. I know it is cynical of me, big business would never do anything for profit at the expense of the consumer.

There is also a anti-gouging bill being stalled in committee, why is it being stalled? Is there one or more people still on the payroll of big business in the Legislature?

You people from Fairbanks should ask your representative about that. The more we expose this type of thing, the less it will happen. Everyone start contacting your representatives and let them know you are concerned, unless you like paying $4 a gallon and 3 minutes is too much to spare.

- Gary Beagley

Anchorage

Health care is no place for insurance industry

I want the Insurance Industry OUT of Health Care...I, a US-Alaskan citizen and taxpayer, WANT SINGLE PAYER and accessible basic care for ALL our citizens.

Yes, the health insurance industry will have to change jobs and sell car, boat, pet, jet, home, business insurance - just not sell health! Though they can probably finagle smoker's insurance like the term-life companies. (Then the doctors and nurses will be happier too).

- Kathleen Dunning

Anchorage