Parnell's decision disappoints

Just when I was starting to think that Gov. Parnell was actually an improvement over Part- Time Palin, our president Barack Obama stops in Anchorage and Parnell decides it's not worth his time to change his schedule a little and meet with the president. Talk about partisan politics! I wonder if Parnell could have found the time if Rush Limbaugh had stopped in Anchorage instead of President Obama.

-- Bill Kornmuller

Willow

President snubbed Alaska

Obama's two-hour stop was not out of his graciousness to chat with Alaskans, but a matter of necessity. Air Force One needs gas, period.

By requirement, Obama had to make a speech, especially after the Fort Hood tragedy, in an appearance and environment of political neutrality. Obama made it clear he was not meeting any elected officials. Unbeknownst to many civilians, invitations go to many party members for these activities and the audience is set to be very friendly and partisan.

Whether by design or coincidence, I tip my hat to those Republicans who did not show up to this routine event, because in Obama's speech, he said he finally visited his 50th state. Alaskans, you were snubbed.

-- Paul Bauer Jr.

Anchorage

Alaska's governor put people first

People, lay off the governor. The governor already had obligations to the people of our state. The president was only here to refuel. I now support the governor more than before because he put the people of the state first. A great leader always puts his people first.

-- Deborah Richardson

Anchorage

Cutbacks at club will harm kids

I volunteer at the Mountain View Boys and Girls Club Community Center. This center expects to lose $50,000 in its budget this year. I am frustrated to see how services provided by the center are taking a hit from the budget cuts: early-bird care, transportation to/from school, and a staff position.

The center has over 800 children enrolled in programs. As a single parent who works, I am not able to drop off and pick up my child from school. I have checked and there are no transportation options from day cares in the area. The center is a place for the kids to play, learn and have fun while learning to be respectful and stay safe. What will happen to these children being affected by the cutbacks?

I strongly urge you people to e-mail Assembly members before they vote at the Assembly meeting tonight at: wwmas@muni.org.

-- Tasha Hotch

Anchorage

Don't let alcohol abusers drive

How can someone who has a lengthy history of alcohol abuse including multiple DUI violations -- like Lori Phillips -- still be able to get behind the wheel of a car? Her daughter was unavailable and that "forced" her to drive herself? Has this woman not heard of telephones and taxis?

We need a solution akin to the ankle bracelets the courts sometimes require parolees and people out on bail to wear -- something that would totally render a car inoperable anytime someone wearing it got behind the wheel. Short of that, we can only hope our paths do not cross with someone like Lori Phillips.

-- Bonnie Thomas

Anchorage

We need to bring our jobs home

Loss of American jobs through outsourcing has caused our biggest problem. If we wish to rebuild America to its former greatness, then we must return those jobs to Americans. I cannot believe that we don't even hear talk about doing this.

-- Harry F. Deuber Sr.

Anchorage

Why not free gym memberships?

America has an obesity problem. Many in our population are overweight, especially our children.

It is clear that the gyms in our nation have failed us. The gyms are making outrageous profits at the expense of our health. It is obvious; just look on the street! They have failed to provide affordable memberships, adequate care and the facilities needed to recreate.

What is needed is a complete government overhaul of our gym system. All private gyms need to be consolidated and run by a government agency with oversight and authority to solve this problem. Memberships should be free. We all need to pay for it. We'll raise the taxes on the populace and implement a tax on junk food businesses and the media. We need to punish those with memberships, those who are forcing us to eat junk food and those forcing us to sit and watch their programs. It is their fault, not ours!

Sound absurd?

So does a government-run health plan!

-- Bryce Purcella

Anchorage