I am writing this letter in response to the outdoor article by John Schandelmeier regarding the wacky bus conservation project (ADN, Dec. 4).I am curious as to the rationale for the University of Alaska Museum of the North’s plan to conserve the abandoned bus junker on the “Stampede Trail.” That is the bus in which a man without outdoor experience died. I see no significant reason for commemorating this bus as a part of Alaska history. Of course, it could be a draw to curious people, which might get them to visit the museum’s site. But that does not make it worthy of a monument.
I can think of no justification for using $500,000 in grant money for this project.
My recommendation: The Museum of the North says thanks, but no thanks. And the staff then politely asks that the organization that was fool enough to consider this proposal as worthy, consider another idea.I also am wondering what granting organization would think this idea was worthy of half a million dollars in grant funds. Perhaps John Schandelmeier can do a follow-up article on this.
— Carol Waters
Anchorage
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