Leave people’s money alone
Gov. Walker is a thief, not a hero. Legislators who represent the people told the governor that the dividends were off-limits. If he wanted them so badly, he should've asked the people to vote on it. He is essentially stealing from the people. The dividends are for the people to put back into the economy, not for the governor to squander away wastefully.
And all this baloney about the Permanent Fund disappearing if nothing is done. Really, only if the government is allowed to completely steal the people's money from them. Just give us the whole dividend of $2,058 and let us put it back into the economy where we see fit and leave the people's money alone, or ask us first in the form of a vote. Don't be a thief about it; things like this are why the trust in government is at an all-time low.
— Jon Eric Thompson
Anchorage
Patriot offended by Trump
This is in response to the comments from M.J. Koskovich, "These folks aren't offended."
I am a "hard-working, taxpaying, patriotic American who believes in the rule of law" offered by our Constitution. I stand at attention during the national anthem, respectful of ALL those who have helped make our nation the free and great nation that it is. I want to offer that during this election campaign I have felt disgusted, angry, credulous, sad and yes — offended by Mr. Trump. I am a woman and a Christian who believes we need to try every day to understand and be tolerant of all people, regardless of the color of their skin or the religion they practice. My constant prayer and mantra these days: Please don't let this man, with his bigoted thoughts and statements, represent and shame our nation.
— LeMay Hupp
Anchorage
Kneeling protests will pass
So another bunch of high school players kneel in protest of the U.S. flag and the song, which in the end will go by way of the water bucket challenge, losing its initial effect.
First, kneeling, in essence genuflecting, is a sign of respect or servitude, so it's contradictory.
Second, the high school states it's an expression of free speech — so say that to the number of students and coaches reprimanded for a prayer prior to a game.
Isn't that also protected free speech?
Third, as a first-born American who happened to serve in the military (21 years), I am not so much offended as disgusted at these so-called Americans. We clearly have a problem with a few jittery police officers around the country, but the vast majority are good, dedicated people. So next time you have a "problem," call on a free-speech person instead of the police or military. See how far that gets you.
— Liz Forsman
Anchorage
Plaudits for Abbe Hensley
I was delighted to read Deborah Bonito's letter recognizing Abbe Hensley's critical leadership role in the success of the Best Beginnings program.
I have known of Abbe's commitment to education since I first met her in the early '70s and she has always been a strong advocate for improving education at all levels.
Abbe has always found ways to support education by working for the Legislature, being involved with her own children's education, serving as the chair of the Alaska State Board of Education, and providing the direction and guidance for Best Beginnings.
I consider Abbe Hensley one of the most outstanding leaders of education in Alaska.
— Dr. Terry Stimson
Anchorage
The views expressed here are the writers' own and are not necessarily endorsed by Alaska Dispatch News, which welcomes a broad range of viewpoints. To submit a letter under 200 words for consideration, email letters@alaskadispatch.com, or click here to submit via any web browser. Submitting a letter to the editor constitutes granting permission for it to be edited for clarity, accuracy and brevity. Send longer works of opinion to commentary@alaskadispatch.com.