Kudos to Elise Patkotak for defending Mr. Whitekeys. Here's part of a May letter to Alaska magazine about this:

We're upset at the decision to remove Mr. Whitekeys from Alaska Magazine. Further distressing is your explanation that his work isn't in line with your purpose to "promote Alaska for Alaskans and those who might visit."

A final insult: "This Is Alaska." You call this "a new monthly feature in which real Alaskans reflect on what life in this incredible state means to them." To date these are poorly written, self-promoting fluff pieces that seem condescending rather than enthusiastic.

Come on! Give readers credit to discern and separate fact from fun.

It's OK, even healthy, to laugh at ourselves. A recent study shows self-deprecation leads to being upbeat and promotes a good mood. Admitting foibles shows a firm grip on reality. It takes honesty and humility. It's not wise to take ourselves too seriously.

Friends Outside read the magazine. They say Whitekeys demonstrates Alaska has a cadre of characters that makes life interesting in the Last Frontier.

Try to laugh at yourself and not become a laughing stock.

-- Don Gomes

Anchorage