Tucson speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Mar. 25, 2022
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Arizona Daily Star.
- Victor Panizzon, Northwest side
I find it difficult to believe that the United States is not opening its arms to the abundance of immigrants leaving Ukraine. They are truly victims of war crimes and in need of our help. While Biden has essentially opened our southern borders to just about every individual regardless of their past, he has turned his back on the victims of the worst humanitarian disaster in my memory. He is not alone in this slight, Congress has no problem approving a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine but hasn’t addressed this issue. We should treat the Ukrainian people at least as well as our southern neighbors. They are victims of verifiable war crimes.
Victor Panizzon
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
The GOP and Republicans are hell bent on changing the ways Americans cast their votes in elections, while making it more difficult for the officials in charge of counting and certifying everyones vote. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we have been voting early by mail for decades, now all of sudden it’s wrong and change is needed according to the GOP and Republicans. There has been no proof whatsoever of any wrongdoing in the way votes have been cast or counted. Surely there are more important matters that will help our nation that the GOP and Republicans can investigate and enact changes on. One thing is for certain, no obstacle or voting change will prevent me from voting and I won’t be voting for the party that starts with “R”. Thanks for making my ballot selections easier.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
There is a political technique that has been used in this country that has been used in the past by several leaders of foreign countries. It involves the creation of an unreal menace that is used to frighten and anger followers of a political party. This fear and anger is weaponized by the leader for political gain. This created menace is usually something that runs totally contrary to patriotic beliefs and therefore causes outrage, victimhood and vengeance. The purpose of created menaces is the manipulation of thinking, division of political stances and the rejection of other political ideas. Trump’s claim that the 2020 election was stolen is an example of this technique. There was outrage and anger, and vengeance was taken. The rioters on Jan 6th felt that they had to correct a wrong, but the wrong they were correcting was a phantom. Creating menaces was and is common in fascist politics. It behooves the electorate to be able to detect this treacherous technique before it metastasizes.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Willie Dickerson, Northwest side
Re: the March 14 letter "Time to ditch fossil fuels."
Dear Editor,
Thanks to the letter writer for reminding us of this critical time to take action to battle climate change. Indeed, this is a perfect time, with the world coming together to battle Ukraine’s invaders, Congress working together to pass a bipartisan budget, and the pandemic shining a light on the equity crises we face. In addition to bringing the free world together to support Ukraine, the President also announced hosting this year’s funding conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria. The Global Fund works with middle and low income countries to strengthen health care systems, save lives, and battle pandemics, including COVID. Last year’s increase to the Child Tax Credit showed we can cut domestic poverty if we take action. So speak up to those who represent you and let’s move Congress to battle all of these current challenges, the time is now for this combined “moonshot."
Willie Dickerson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Felicia Chew, Midtown
I am a teacher. Here is why and how I keep on teaching: I do the Dory: "Just keep swimming."
I took time off from teaching: worked as a substitute, in customer service, as an independent consultant, ran for political office.
I realized the best place for me is in a school, understanding the spheres of control, influence, concern, and bubbling up (setting healthy boundaries).
I remember my intent and purpose. I know the standards; I explain how my teaching uses evidence-based instruction; that I teach the standards, and help students become effective communicators, complex thinkers, self-motivated learners.
I remember these Truths:
- "We plant seeds as educators."
- "It takes time for people to learn."
- "People learn in different ways."
I keep teaching.
I press on, in spite of the ugliness of the world.
If you haven't read it recently, check out Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise".
I believe in humanity, so I press on.
Felicia Chew
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Battle over
the ballots
The Republicans are hellbent on changing the ways Americans cast their votes in elections, while making it more difficult for the officials in charge of counting and certifying everyone's vote. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we have been voting early by mail for decades, now all of sudden it’s wrong and change is needed according to Republicans. There has been no proof whatsoever of any wrongdoing in the way votes have been cast or counted. Surely there are more important matters that will help our nation that the GOP and Republicans can investigate and enact changes on. One thing is for certain, no obstacle or voting change will prevent me from voting and I won’t be voting for the party that starts with “R”. Thanks for making my ballot selections easier.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Talk, talk, talk
on education
Regarding recent Republican wrangling of school funding.
If you ever want to know what a society truly holds important, don’t listen to the rhetoric. Ignore the wish list. Skip the speeches to the big cheering crowds. Blow off all the “I believe” statements made by politicians and general public alike.
To learn what a society holds important, what it really holds near and dear to its heart, look at what that society actually pays for. When we search our collective couches, where do we send our change? That is the No. 1 priority of a society. Anything else is just delusional lies.
Signed, a teacher that has had enough of hearing about how important education is.
David Reynolds
East side
Actual victims
of war crimes
Re: the March 20 article "These refugees have an easier go."
I find it difficult to believe that the United States is not opening its arms to the abundance of immigrants leaving Ukraine. They are truly victims of war crimes and in need of our help. I think Joe Biden has essentially opened our southern borders, but he has turned his back on the victims of the worst humanitarian disaster in my memory. He is not alone in this slight, Congress has no problem approving a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine but hasn’t addressed this issue. We should treat the Ukrainian people at least as well as our southern neighbors. They are victims of verifiable war crimes.
Victor Panizzon
Northwest side
Improve slate
of candidates
All his life he wanted to be president. When he got the job he wasn't up to it. Almost no one has been. Only four or five have been, none in this century. The same can be said about every incumbent, in any and every office in the land. Look what we, and most other states, have for governors. And attorneys general. Most particularly, state legislators. And senators and House representatives. It's to laugh, when not crying. And being embarrassed. The villain is self-selection: Who asked any of them to run?
We need a process by which voters ask people if they want to run for office — every office. Those who are willing then do a primary when necessary, to select those to be the final candidate when necessary, in the general election. Hopefully, we minimize the ego-driven, those with an agenda, those with a power need. We might actually get service.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
No time like
the present
Re: the March 14 letter "Time to ditch fossil fuels."
Thanks to the letter writer for reminding us of this critical time to take action to battle climate change. Indeed, this is a perfect time, with the world coming together to battle Ukraine’s invaders, Congress working together to pass a bipartisan budget, and the pandemic shining a light on the equity crisis we face. In addition to bringing the free world together to support Ukraine, the president also announced hosting this year’s funding conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and malaria. The Global Fund works with middle- and low-income countries to strengthen health care systems, save lives and battle pandemics, including COVID. Last year’s increase to the child tax credit showed we can cut domestic poverty if we take action. So speak up to those who represent you and let’s move Congress to battle all of these current challenges, the time is now for this combined “moonshot."
Willie Dickerson
Northwest side
Hopeful teacher
presses forward
I am a teacher. Here is why and how I keep on teaching: I do the Dory: "Just keep swimming."
I took time off from teaching, worked as a substitute, in customer service, as an independent consultant, ran for political office.
I realized the best place for me is in a school, understanding the spheres of control, influence, concern and bubbling up (setting healthy boundaries).
I remember my intent and purpose. I know the standards, I explain how my teaching uses evidence-based instruction, that I teach the standards, and help students become effective communicators, complex thinkers, self-motivated learners.
I remember these truths:
- "We plant seeds as educators."
- "It takes time for people to learn."
- "People learn in different ways."
I keep teaching. I press on, in spite of the ugliness of the world. If you haven't read it recently, check out Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise." I believe in humanity, so I press on.
Felicia Chew
Midtown
Independents
hold the key
Re: the March 20 article "State GOP to voters: How dare you?"
I have known for years that the only way to stop playing whack-a-mole with the bad bills at the Legislature was to get different people elected. But how? Lynne Hudson in her recent op-ed had a brilliant idea: Get moderate Republicans to run for office and convince independents to request a Republican ballot for the primary. Bingo! We would get the extremists out so real dialogue could take place at the Capitol. Thank you, Lynne! If this actually happened we could stop spending our time getting petitions signed and sit back and enjoy life in our beautiful state.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Weaponization
of fear, anger
There is a political technique that has been used in this country that has been used in the past by several leaders of foreign countries. It involves the creation of an unreal menace that is used to frighten and anger followers of a political party. This fear and anger is weaponized by the leader for political gain. This created menace is usually something that runs totally contrary to patriotic beliefs and therefore causes outrage, victimhood and vengeance. The purpose of created menaces is the manipulation of thinking, division of political stances and the rejection of other political ideas. Donald Trump’s claim that the 2020 election was stolen is an example of this technique. There was outrage and anger, and vengeance was taken. The rioters on Jan. 6 felt that they had to correct a wrong, but the wrong they were correcting was a phantom. Creating menaces was and is common in fascist politics. It behooves the electorate to be able to detect this treacherous technique before it metastasizes.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
The U. S. is in the middle of a supply chain nightmare. Shelves are bare everywhere. There’s still a large number of container ships waiting to enter the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Currently, the US reports a shortage of around 60,000 drivers. Meanwhile, we have to endure these freedom convoys in Canada and the U.S. causing loss of jobs while workers miss out on millions of dollars in lost wages, all because of vaccine mandate protests at key U.S.-Canada trade crossings. It’s uncertain if any of these truckers are aware of this, but several companies in the U.S. are coming out with autonomous self driving trucks. Tusimple is currently testing their trucks in Tucson and another company, Aurora is set to launch a driverless commercial by the end of 2023. Are these protesting truckers part of the solution or part of the problem?
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Michael Perdue, Vail
Re: the March 22 letter "Political weakness."
To respond to your requests to answer your two questions, I tried to locate the “Association of Far Left, Green, New Deal Democrats” to get a statement on why they are controlling our President, but couldn’t locate their website for some reason? As to why President Biden is “so weak”, maybe you could send a note to Mitch McConnell who thinks that other than his not providing a few used fighter planes to Ukraine, he is doing a “pretty good job” there. Maybe he should start some useless and frivolous trade wars with our NATO allies to prove his strength!? I wonder if the Russians and Chinese agree that he is “so weak”?
Michael Perdue
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Toni Kane, Oro Valley
Re: the March 22 letter "Teach, don't indoctrinate."
I agree with the writer on only one opinion, the Republican Party is not responsible for the "dying" of public education. Many citizens are responsible for the squashing of the system.
Other opinions generated by the writer, no consensus. First, teacher unions advocate for the rights of teachers--right of greater pay, the right of smaller class sizes, the right to honest curriculum, the right to provide an honest education, not indoctrination. Second, school boards function as management, as do principals and others in management. Third, the Red for Education was a movement to draw attention to some of needs of public education. One, I particularly support is greater salary compensation. It seems the more that you make, the more you are respected.
The very conservative writer needs to be caught up on education lingo: math is taught, not arithmetic.
As for vouchers: many parents believe that the grass is greener on the other side. They believe they understand education because they, themselves, went to public schools.
Toni Kane
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Smith, Foothills
Re: the March 22 article "Being Republican vs. being conservative."
As an 81 year old lifelong liberal I was fascinated by Lynn Schmidt's article listing the 15 principles of Conservatism from the Principles First Summit. The only principle listed that I question is #12 - "Civic associations, faith communities and families should be. the primary engines of our culture- not the state". I'm not sure what a culture engine is but certainly it's not the state. Who can argue against basic principles like "Integrity, character and virtue matter" or "Equality of opportunity, not equality of outcomes". If these are true conservative values liberals and conservatives may not be that far apart in our core beliefs. Our divisions may be driven by political party dogma.
Morton Smith
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Miller-Pinhey, Foothills
One simple question and I welcome a response. Why is Vladimir Putin the only person on this earth that Donald Trump (Insult slinger in chief) has never dared criticize?
Susan Miller-Pinhey
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kathleen Dubbs, West side
Two recent opinion pieces in the Daily Star mentioned the double standard we seem to have with refugees. Americans welcome Ukrainians asking for asylum at our borders, but turn away brown-skinned people who experience similar trauma. Maybe we need to examine our thinking a little closer and make our opinions known to those who have the power to change things.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sheldon Metz, Northeast side
Americans must understand we will have to fight Russia at some point in time. Unfortunately, Western Powers have coddled Vladimir Putin to a point where he believes we are weak and ineffectual in stopping him, much like any bully on a school campus. The lesser the defense, the greater the power.
George W. "looked into his eyes and saw a soul…." But he also saw, at the very same time, "He is a very aggressive person who wants to reinstate Soviet influence, even though the Soviet [Union] no longer exists, and therefore, I always felt it was very important for the United States to be very forceful in dealing with Putin. Not belligerent, but forceful." Obama lightly sanctioned Putin but wasn't powerful enough to cause fear in Putin to encourage him to curtail his aggression. Trump gave Putin the appearance of our being hands-off. He supported and still braces his fellow authoritarian. Putin is aware of Trump's popularity amongst fascists in America. International pacts tie Biden's options somewhat.
Sheldon Metz
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Double standard on who we let in
Two recent opinion pieces in the Daily Star mentioned the double standard we seem to have with refugees. Americans welcome Ukrainians asking for asylum at our borders, but turn away brown-skinned people who experience similar trauma. Maybe we need to examine our thinking a little closer and make our opinions known to those who have the power to change things.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Centennial Hall restroom issue
Open letter to Robert C. Robbins, President, University of Arizona:
President Robbins: When I was at the university back in the 1960s, enrolled in the newly accredited College of Architecture, I remember the restroom situation at Centennial Hall was woefully inadequate, particularly for females. Today, the situation has not changed, with long lines at performance intermissions.
With the money being spent on new construction, is there not enough to enlarge Centennial Hall for adequate fixtures to accommodate full-capacity performances that last 180 minutes? The people attending these performances represent a cross section of Southern Arizona public as well as alumni.
With all due respect, your response to this question in this public forum would be most appreciated.
Roger Ulrich, architect AIA CSI NCARB (retired), class of 1970
Northwest side
A tax dividend, not a flat tax
Arizona has a tax surplus, so the Arizona Legislature continues to explore a flat tax. With a 2.5% flat-tax plan, Gov. Doug Ducey’s office says the “average taxpayer” will pocket on average $350. Some taxpayers (the wealthy) receive thousands of dollars while others get less than $50.
As an alternative to a flat tax that benefits the rich, how about a tax dividend that is refunded to all taxpayers instead? Same amount for each.
Advantages of a tax dividend compared to a flat tax include:
1. Everyone benefits equally.
2. The dividend can increase or decrease depending on state revenues. In good years we get more, in lean years we get less.
3. The state isn’t locked into a tax cut that will harm state services if revenues fall short.
4. The whole state gets a big economic shot in the arm when we receive our dividend checks and spend them.
I like the idea of a $350 dividend per taxpayer if revenues support it. Send me my check!
Tony Kuyper
Foothills
For the love of the arts
What a joy it has been to experience the return of live theater to stages throughout our special community and across the country. During the pandemic, talented performers who commit their lives to providing entertainment to others have experienced immeasurable hardships. During last weekend’s performances of Jersey Boys at Centennial Hall, signage and announcements stated that “for the protection of fellow patrons and performers, masks over the nose and mouth must be worn at all times.” It was disheartening to see fellow patrons ignore this requirement, even when approached by security personnel. I wonder if these individuals noticed that band members — and any other cast member without a line or a song — were wearing a mask, even while on stage. The moment the performers departed the venue from the stage door, each wore a highly protective KN95 mask. Their passion, livelihood and the joy they provide remains contingent upon the protection we provide them — and our fellow human beings … for the love of the arts.
Tracy Shake
Foothills
He sure doesn’t look weak to me
Re: the March 22 letter “Political weakness.”
To respond to your requests to answer your two questions, I tried to locate the “Association of Far Left, Green, New Deal Democrats” to get a statement on why they are controlling our president, but couldn’t locate their website for some reason? As to why President Joe Biden is “so weak,” maybe he should start some useless and frivolous trade wars with our NATO allies to prove his strength. I wonder if the Russians and Chinese agree that he is “so weak”?
Michael Perdue
Vail
Party dogma keeps us apart
Re: the March 22 article “Being Republican vs. being conservative.”
As an 81-year-old lifelong liberal I was fascinated by Lynn Schmidt’s article listing the 15 principles of conservatism from the Principles First Summit. The only principle listed that I question is No. 12 — “Civic associations, faith communities and families should be the primary engines of our culture — not the state.” I’m not sure what a culture engine is, but certainly it’s not the state. Who can argue against basic principles like “Integrity, character and virtue matter” or “Equality of opportunity, not equality of outcomes.” If these are true conservative values, liberals and conservatives may not be that far apart in our core beliefs. Our divisions may be driven by political party dogma.
Morton Smith
Foothills
Putin has Trump seal of approval
One simple question and I welcome a response. Why is Vladimir Putin the only person on this earth that Donald Trump has never dared criticize?
Susan Miller-Pinhey
Foothills
Clarifying some education issues
Re: the March 22 letter “Teach, don’t indoctrinate.”
I agree with the writer on only one opinion, the Republican Party is not responsible for the “dying” of public education. Many citizens are responsible for the squashing of the system.
Other opinions generated by the writer, no consensus. First, teacher unions advocate for the rights of teachers — right of greater pay, the right of smaller class sizes, the right to honest curriculum, the right to provide an honest education, not indoctrination.
Second, school boards function as management, as do principals and others in management.
Third, the Red for Education was a movement to draw attention to some of the needs of public education. One I particularly support is greater salary compensation. It seems the more that you make, the more you are respected.
The very conservative writer needs to be caught up on education lingo: Math is taught, not arithmetic.
As for vouchers: Many parents believe that the grass is greener on the other side. They believe they understand education because they, themselves, went to public schools.
Toni Kane
Oro Valley
- Kim Mathews, East side
It's good to hear a sane voice to counter the voices of the escalationists who suggest that there exists some form of limited nuclear war that can be survived or even won. They believe we can have a few "tactical" nuclear strikes here and there and somehow be o.k. That's magical thinking at its most delusional. True, destruction of the entire planet might not be immediate, and we older folks might not live to experience the worst effects of nuclear war. Our children, however, would be doomed to a brutal struggle for survival in a barren world as imagined, I think accurately, by Cormac McCarthy in his novel "The Road." Is this what we wish for those we love, or for anyone? A change of course is still possible, and absolutely necessary.
Kim Mathews
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Nancy Jacques, Northeast side
Thank you, Tim Steller, for “These Refugees Have an Easier Go.” We're horrified watching attacks on Ukrainians. Some might realize their reaction to bombing Syrians was different. Steller was tactful calling out our prejudices and immigration policies. Responding differently is what’s important today. In the past we’ve hated Irish, refused Jewish refugees during WWII, deported 400,000 to 1 million Mexicans AND Mexican American citizens in the Depression. Let’s be honest: Why does cartel crime exist? Is the US ever involved in Latin American politics? Are refugees a “burden?” Who does yard work in Tucson, cleans houses and takes care of our parents in long-term care facilities? Who washes restaurant dishes, builds, paints, lays roofs in desert heat? Plus, the US has been THE major contributor of climate change emissions already causing conflagrations and diaspora. Are we not responsible for receiving some percentage of the climate refugees our lifestyle choices cause? Isn’t it time to acknowledge our past and plan honestly for major immigration revisions?
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
One of the earliest examples of a Buyback program occurred in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1974, Baltimore police paid residents US$50 per firearm, collecting roughly 13,500 over a two-month period. In a year, Australia purchased about 650,000 firearms from private residents, estimated to represent about 20 per cent of the country's privately owned guns. This would be a win-win scenario, as American cities would be reducing the number of guns in their towns and counties while sending them to Ukraine to fight Putin's army instead of melting them down. On another note, since Putin's army is using cluster munitions and vacuum bombs on Ukrainians, which are banned under the Geneva Convention, then why can't Ukraine in turn now use flame throwers and Napalm on Putin's 40-mile convoy heading towards Kyiv. The U. S. and its allies were very innovative during World War II. Help Ukraine.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Deb Klumpp, Oro Valley
The letter "Lies of Russia" talked of Putin's egregious lies to the Russian people regarding atrocities in Ukraine. It warned Americans not to fall for these lies from Russia or from other countries. That really made me pause, thinking of just how many Americans bought, swallowed, and still embrace Donald Trump's lies, including the Big Lie that the election was stolen. Both Trump and Putin (who is an object of Trump's hero-worship) prey on, and count on, people accepting their lies. Both are serial liars. One difference - in America, the truth is readily accessible to anyone who wants it and who happens to believe that the truth matters.
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Deb Klumpp, Oro Valley
How heartbreaking the photo of the wounded pregnant woman being removed from the bombed maternity and childrens' hospital in Ukraine. What a horrendous symbol of Putin's "genius" - Trump's assessment of Putin's invasion. The usually "all day, everyday in your face" ex-president is uncharacteristically laying very low, strangely silent now. The situation in Ukraine and resulting world-wide outcry and damnation is creating a dilemma for him - how to transition from Putin hero-worshiper to international relations tough guy? All Americans should review the video of Trump's performance in Helsinki, as he took Putin's word over his own intelligence experts and cozied up to the dictator on the international stage. A stunning and glaringly revealing portrait of Trump that all should reflect on and remember.
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
The White House position is that America can buy oil pumped out of the ground in foreign countries but will not tolerate drilling in the US.
If this makes sense to you, then you are a Democrat.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Get to know the homeless
I recently adopted a cat I saw in the Arizona Daily Star and I thought — it seems we do more to help homeless pets in Tucson than we do to help ones experiencing homelessness. Maybe if one of your reporters went out once a week and talked to some of the homeless and every week wrote a story about one of them. If they could tell a little bit of their story in their own words maybe we would all be moved to do something for them. I know that many of them have made bad choices but often they are homeless just because of rotten luck. Maybe if we knew their stories it would help to get something done — surely homeless people are at least as deserving as homeless pets to get a second chance.
Nancy Silberschlag
Foothills
White House is incompetent
To all you Tucson Trump bashers: How do you like your $5 gas price? How do you like your Southwest Gas and Tucson Electric bills? Are you enjoying what you’re paying for groceries and anything else you’re spending your shrinking paycheck on? You’ve elected the most incompetent president and vice president in the history of this once great country. Open borders, critical race theory, white supremacy, Trump as a puppet to Putin. The entire Biden family is in Putin’s pocket.
When he shuts down our petroleum resources but gives Russia carte blanche for theirs while Biden sends Putin billions of our dollars and begs them for more without any reasonable way to convert us off fossil fuels except for us to pay through the nose to get us there. That’s just incompetence at the highest level.
Tom Roberts
Northwest side
Initiatives fly under the radar
Re: the March 18 letter “Government by, for the people.”
I am a volunteer with the current Arizonans for Fair Elections petition drive, which seeks to reinstate Permanent Early Voting, allow voting anywhere in the county where a person is registered, increase funding for Clean Elections candidates, and prevent the Legislature from overriding the voters in a presidential election. As Merrill Eisenberg wrote, Arizona’s Constitution was designed to promote democracy through popular referendum and initiative, as well as through our elected Legislature. But referenda and initiatives, which now require hundreds of thousands of signatures to get on the ballot, don’t get the kind of press coverage that activities in the Legislature get. Citizens may not hear about the referendum or initiative until it’s too late for them to sign it or organize an opposing effort. Newspapers like the Star could help to solve this problem by running a regular listing of signature-gathering efforts, with information about where and how to contact them.
Robert Wallace
Oro Valley
Teachers’ unions brought this on
The education bills passing through the Legislature will not break the public’s trust in government schools, but are a result of the complete forfeiture of trust that has already occurred. The argument against HB 2808 blames the students for their schools’ failure. There are proven public/private options that successfully educate the same children. I think the bills calling for more transparency in curriculum are a result of the teachers’ unions. I think it is the teachers’ unions along with their progressive allies who want to convince children that their parents are their enemies and threaten arrest if you object. I am also tired of the complaint that prohibitions on CRT-inspired teaching that tells white children they are evil based on their color alone are unnecessary.
Helen Moulton
Foothills
Escalationists living a fantasy
Re: the March 20 letter “Nuclear war or nuclear ban?”
It’s good to hear a sane voice to counter the voices of the escalationists who suggest that there exists some form of limited nuclear war that can be survived or even won. They believe we can have a few “tactical” nuclear strikes here and there and somehow be OK. That’s magical thinking at its most delusional. True, destruction of the entire planet might not be immediate, and we older folks might not live to experience the worst effects of nuclear war. Our children, however, would be doomed to a brutal struggle for survival in a barren world as imagined, I think accurately, by Cormac McCarthy in his novel “The Road.” Is this what we wish for those we love, or for anyone? A change of course is still possible, and absolutely necessary.
Kim Mathews
East side
On immigration, let’s be honest
Re: the March 20 article “These refugees have an easier go.”
Thank you, Tim Steller, for this article. We’re horrified watching the attacks on Ukrainians. Some might realize their reaction to bombing Syrians was different. Steller was tactful calling out our prejudices and immigration policies. I think responding differently is what’s important today. In the past we’ve hated Irish, refused Jewish refugees during WWII, deported 400,000 to 1 million Mexicans and Mexican American citizens in the Depression. Let’s be honest: Why does cartel crime exist? Is the U.S. ever involved in Latin American politics? Are refugees a “burden?” Who does yardwork in Tucson, cleans houses and takes care of our parents in long-term-care facilities? Who washes restaurant dishes, builds, paints, lays roofs in desert heat? Plus, the U.S. has been the major contributor of climate-change emissions already causing conflagrations and diaspora. Are we not responsible for receiving some percentage of the climate refugees our lifestyle choices cause? Isn’t it time to acknowledge our past and plan honestly for major immigration revisions?
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Steller visits my street family
Re: the March 9 article “Tucson should open sanctioned homeless camps.”
Tim Steller came to our camp between Congress Avenue and St. Mary’s. He interviewed Outbak (William Greenaway III) and me. I would like to thank him.
Four days ago, I was handed the key to my apartment from my caseworker, Selene. She is a housing coordinator who works for Community Partners Inc. I believe it was his article that led to me being housed, permanently. I also have to thank Alex Mendoza of the Pima County Housing and Outbak, as well as the rest of my street family, for helping me survive up till now.
I hope Steller continues to speak to those living on the streets here in Tucson, he was very kind, and we enjoyed talking to him. After reading his article, we realized there are a lot of people who are trying to help. We didn’t realize the amount of money that could be received from the federal government. May Tucson, Pima County, and Arizona be able receive this money and use it wisely.
Michelle LaLone
South Tucson
Disabled need absentee voting
Re: the March 21 article “Bill would end early voting, require hand count.”
I support a hand count of ballots within a 24-hour period. However, the proposed limitation on absentee voting is unfair to the many seniors with permanent disabilities making it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to participate in future voting. Restricting absentee voting to people who are “physically unable to go to the polls because of being hospitalized or in a nursing home” is too limiting. My 93-year-old husband served in the Caribbean Defense Command during WWII. Three years ago, he fell and broke his leg at the hip and has problems walking, standing and maintaining his balance despite physical therapy and constant use of a walker. I provide care for him on a 24/7 basis at our home. He is not in a nursing home, nor is he hospitalized. Absentee voting makes it possible for him to continue voting. HB 2289 needs to be amended to include all Arizona citizens with physical disabilities who cannot easily vote in person; regardless of where they reside.
Gail Gesell
Tubac
Why are private schools exempt?
Re: the March 15 article “Bill expands parent-teacher involvement.”
Our legislators are concerned about the transparency of what is being taught in public and charter schools. With the introduction of SB 1211 they hope to address this concern. The bill intends to make what is being taught readily available to parents and the public. A laudable goal since this information is often available already. But as with other education issues, private and parochial school are exempt. Why? Since some hold them up as shining examples, then I think what they teach should be available to us all also. I say the Arizona Legislature should include private and parochial schools in SB 1211.
Gary Benna
Midtown
- Walt Johnson, Foothills
2 Simple Questions and look forward to reading a response: 1. Why is Joe Biden so controlled by the far-left Green New Deal Democrats'? 2. Why is Joe Biden so weak? Looking forward to seeing the responses.
Walt Johnson
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ken Wolfe, Marana
- Updated
I am a 80-year young Conservative, and have always voted Absentee. Democrats are trying to eliminate all impediments to voting, and Republicans are trying to change procedures to eliminate cheating. Election boards have given accurate, secure elections low priority as evidenced by substantiated examples of dead, unqualified, out-of-state people voting, incomplete ballots and illegal ballot harvesting. They have resisted allowing oversight at local polling locations. Secure, accurate elections SHOULD be the goal of every American to maintain our republic democracy. I believe all political goals can be accomplished while maintaining the ability to vote Absentee. It requires a Voter ID number combined with a robust system to maintain accurate voter records. At election time, ballots with the ID would be compared to the database, and only legal ballots accepted. The privilege to vote should include some responsibilities including the accurate completion of a ballot. Inaccurate ballots should be discarded. Requirements need to be implemented so that election results are known within 24 hours from polling closure.
Ken Wolfe
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tim Peterson, Northwest side
It’s time we call out Putin’s threats. The Russian government needs to understand there are consequences to threats of nuclear or chemical weapons use.
NO nation should be able to make these threats and not realize consequences for such. If not, then any nation with nuclear weapons will be able to do whatever they want knowing the rest of the world will stand back and watch.
Does this risk an all out war with Russia? Yes it does and that thought is unthinkable, but if not now when? How many more times will all other stable nations be held ransom to some dictator’s threats of nuclear or chemical retaliation? What will we do when China claims Taiwan? When North Korea claims the south? Iran?
The thought is scary as hell, but shouldn’t a stand be made the first time it happens instead of the third or fourth time?
What use is the UN if not to stop the unwarranted slaughter of a sovereign nation?
Tim Peterson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Matt Somers, Midtown
Marie Yovanovitch, Former US Ambassador to the Ukraine, was born in Canada. Fiona Hill, Former Senior Director for Europe and Russia at the United States National Security Council, was born in England. Alexander Vindman, Former Director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council, was born in Ukraine. These three people came to this country from elsewhere and have defended the United States against its enemies foreign and domestic while under pressure from Republicans.
Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican US Representative from Georgia, was born in the state of Georgia. Lauren Boebert, Republican US Representative from Colorado, was born in Florida. Madison Cawthorn, Republican US representative from North Carolina, was born in North Carolina. These latter three have used the First Amendment's Freedom of Speech to undermine the standing of the United States nationally and in the world.
Wouldn't it be nice if those representing the United States in Congress would actually support the United States, especially during Russian government's immoral invasion of Ukraine.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
As a result of the Russian attack against the Ukraine, gas prices have exploded globally. Arizonan drivers are suffering from the additional costs like everyone else, but Gov. Ducey refuses to help, blaming the Biden government as the culprit due to its ban on the Keystone XL pipeline since 2021. Ducey seems not to know anything about global energy politics and the basic economic factors. The Keystone pipeline would have shipped dirty oil extracted from Canadian tar sand down to New Orleans and from there to China, which would have had no impact on oil supplies in Arizona. The US imports only ca. 3 % of its oil needs from Russia, which is now cut off and could be easily substituted by our own production. The price explosion is hence not justified, and gouging of the consumers. Gov. Ducey could bring some assistance to the consumers, but he prefers to politicize the actual situation to the detriment of all Arizonans.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Janet Heetland, Green Valley
Please consider these comments the next time you hear Trump and his followers, without a shred of evidence, lie about a “stolen" election:
Repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth.
A lie told once remains a lie but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth.
The bigger the lie, the more it will be believed.
If you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it and you will even come to believe it yourself.
Propaganda works best when those who are being manipulated are confident they are acting on their own free will.
Wondering who made these comments? They are attributed to Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda Joseph Goebbels and demonstrate a law of propaganda known as “the illusion of truth”: Repetition makes a thing seem more true, regardless of whether it is or not.
Janet Heetland
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Marvin Montez, Oro Valley
The reason public education is dying is not due to the Republican Party but the policies and actions of teachers’ unions, “woke” school boards and the Red for Ed movement. You may not want to think it but public education is trying to sell a product, your kids’ education. These three groups have so polluted the reading, writing and arithmetic concept that droves of parents are looking for something else and that is private schools that meet their needs.
If the public school system is so excellent, why the max exodus when vouchers are offered? And those especially wanting the vouchers are the poor! Many realized how public education have utterly failed them. Public school officials and teachers are to blame for their failure to keep students in their schools.
We were the envy of the world until the Marxist took over the system. This is what a socialist system produces and most parents aren’t blind. Teach, don’t indoctrinate!
Marvin Montez
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Clyde R. Steele, Oro Valley
The article in Sunday’s Digest about a Federal Judge who ruled Kentucky clerk Kim Davis violated constitutional rights of same-sex couple by denying them a marriage license left off something about Ms. Davis. She was married four times. In applying for her many marriage licenses, what if the clerk on religious grounds refused to issue her a marriage license because she was divorced three times. Would she go to court on this? I wonder how far would she have taken this? Would she claim that God was on her side in getting married a four time? If Republican County Clerks start claiming religious freedom on every issue, can we then expect perhaps denying a marriage license to gun owners? One could only hope!
Clyde R. Steele
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Political weakness
Two simple questions and look forward to reading a response: 1. Why is Joe Biden so controlled by the far-left Green New Deal Democrats? 2. Why is Joe Biden so weak? Looking forward to seeing the responses.
Walt Johnson
Foothills
Teach, don’t indoctrinate
Re: the March 7 letter “Slow death of public education.”
I believe the reason public education is dying is not due to the Republican Party but the policies and actions of teachers’ unions, “woke” school boards and the Red for Ed movement. You may not want to think it, but public education is trying to sell a product, your kids’ education. These three groups have so polluted the reading, writing and arithmetic concept that droves of parents are looking for something else and that is private schools that meet their needs.
If the public school system is so excellent, why the max exodus when vouchers are offered? And those especially wanting the vouchers are the poor! Many realized how public education has utterly failed them. Public school officials and teachers are to blame for their failure to keep students in their schools.
We were the envy of the world until the Marxists took over the system. This is what a socialist system produces, and most parents aren’t blind. Teach, don’t indoctrinate!
Marvin Montez
Oro Valley
Adoption and Republicans
Having worked as a registered nurse for 38 years, I would like to know which one of you who identify as Republicans will adopt an uncared-for child, or care for a baby who has major health and behavioral problems, or fund a lifetime of medical care for a genetically compromised child?
Jerry Weinert
Midtown
It’s time to draw a line
It’s time we call out Putin’s threats. The Russian government needs to understand there are consequences to threats of nuclear or chemical weapons use.
No nation should be able to make these threats and not realize consequences for such. If not, then any nation with nuclear weapons will be able to do whatever they want, knowing the rest of the world will stand back and watch.
Does this risk an all-out war with Russia? Yes, it does and that thought is unthinkable, but if not now, when? How many more times will all other stable nations be held ransom to some dictator’s threats of nuclear or chemical retaliation? What will we do when China claims Taiwan? When North Korea claims the south? Iran?
The thought is scary, but shouldn’t a stand be made the first time it happens instead of the third or fourth time?
What use is the UN if not to stop the unwarranted slaughter of a sovereign nation?
Tim Peterson
Northwest side
Show support for home team
Marie Yovanovitch, former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, was born in Canada. Fiona Hill, former senior director for Europe and Russia at the United States National Security Council, was born in England. Alexander Vindman, former director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council, was born in Ukraine. These three people came to this country from elsewhere and have defended the United States against its enemies foreign and domestic while under pressure from Republicans.
Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican U.S. representative from Georgia, was born in the state of Georgia. Lauren Boebert, Republican U.S. representative from Colorado, was born in Florida. Madison Cawthorn, Republican U.S. representative from North Carolina, was born in North Carolina. These latter three have used the First Amendment’s freedom of speech to undermine the standing of the United States nationally and in the world.
Wouldn’t it be nice if those representing the United States in Congress would actually support the United States, especially during the Russian government’s immoral invasion of Ukraine?
Matt Somers
Midtown
Pleased by demise of Prop. 208
I am an Arizona independent, and I am delighted that Prop. 208 has been found unconstitutional.
I do not believe in class warfare, which is what I think Prop. 208 would have imposed. Class warfare is divisive in itself, and it is largely the high achievers who would have been punished by the tax surcharge.
I thank God(!) for Gov. Doug Ducey, whose sense of fiscal responsibility has brought Arizonans tax relief while increasing teacher salaries and otherwise maintaining sound schools that among many other good things, do not teach critical race theory.
Dr. James Stewart
Foothills
Elections
I am a 80-year-young conservative, and have always voted absentee. Democrats are trying to eliminate all impediments to voting, and Republicans are trying to change procedures to eliminate cheating. I believe election boards have given accurate, secure elections low priority. Secure, accurate elections should be the goal of every American to maintain our republic democracy.
I believe all political goals can be accomplished while maintaining the ability to vote absentee. It requires a voter ID number combined with a robust system to maintain accurate voter records. At election time, ballots with the ID would be compared to the database, and only legal ballots accepted.
The privilege to vote should include some responsibilities, including the accurate completion of a ballot. Inaccurate ballots should be discarded. Requirements need to be implemented so that election results are known within 24 hours from polling closure.
Ken Wolfe
Marana
The Big Lie
Please consider these comments the next time you hear Trump and his followers, without a shred of evidence, lie about a “stolen” election:
Repeat a lie often enough, and it becomes the truth.
A lie told once remains a lie, but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth.
The bigger the lie, the more it will be believed.
If you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it and you will even come to believe it yourself.
Propaganda works best when those who are being manipulated are confident they are acting on their own free will.
Wondering who made these comments? They are attributed to Hitler’s minister of propaganda Joseph Goebbels and demonstrate a law of propaganda known as “the illusion of truth:” Repetition makes a thing seem more true, regardless of whether it is or not.
Janet Heetland
Green Valley
Gas price gouging and Gov. Ducey
As a result of the Russian attack against the Ukraine, gas prices have exploded globally. Arizona drivers are suffering from the additional costs like everyone else, but Gov. Doug Ducey refuses to help, blaming the Biden government as the culprit due to its ban on the Keystone XL pipeline since 2021. Ducey seems not to know anything about global energy politics and the basic economic factors.
The Keystone pipeline would have shipped dirty oil extracted from Canadian tar sand down to New Orleans and from there to China, which would have had no impact on oil supplies in Arizona. The U.S. imports only about 3% of its oil needs from Russia, which is now cut off and could be easily substituted by our own production.
The price explosion is hence not justified, and gouging of the consumers. Gov. Ducey could bring some assistance to the consumers, but he prefers to politicize the actual situation to the detriment of all Arizonans.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
- Steve Robinson, Oro Valley
I was taken aback by Gov. Ducey's comment, referring to rising gas prices, that "It's like nothing we've seen in our lifetime." At first I thought that perhaps the governor's lifetime has only been a couple of decades long, but of course he would probably not have been able to win the state's highest office as an adolescent. Then I realized that Ducey's "lifetime" is indeed a lot shorter than that of many of his constituents, myself included, for whom memories of the 1970s have not faded away, in spite of our comparatively protracted "lifetimes."
Steve Robinson
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Antonopulos, Sabino Canyon
Re: the March 16 letter "Trump 'patriots' cheer on P utin."
In response to accusations made by your letter writer, I am a proud Trump supporter and do not know of a single Trump supporter that is in favor of Putin’s tyrannical actions. And in fact, neither is Donald Trump or Tucker Carlson. If, you actually spent the time to watch Carlson’s program you would know that. I do see one of the requirements of this newspaper for printing a letter to the editor is no slander…..maybe the letter didn’t get edited?
Susan Antonopulos
Sabino Canyon
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bobbi Zimmer, Midtown
Families across Arizona have faced exorbitant costs for health care and medicines. And with the prices of other necessities like gas and groceries rising, the last thing we need are excessively high health care costs too.
Senator Kelly has worked hard to lower health care costs for Arizonans. By voting for the American Rescue Plan, lower health insurance premiums have given more Arizonans access to affordable care. He is also fighting to bring down the cost of prescription drugs by giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices. Kelly supports a bill that would cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35 per month, ensuring that Arizonans with diabetes can afford the life-saving medicine.
We need our representatives to stand up to big Pharma and fight hard to bring down health care costs and make sure Arizona families can pay their bills and get the health care they need. Please join me in supporting Senator Kelly to do just that.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jerry Lujan, SaddleBrooke
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is attributed to Bert Lance former Director of the Office of Management and Budget during President Jimmy Carter. That should apply to the electoral process in many states. However, several states are enacting laws and election officials to prevent voter fraud. These proposals, and in some cases already laws, affect how voting takes place, i.e., eliminating mail-in-voting, early voting, reducing the number of polling places, eliminating drop boxes, making voting only one day, proposals concerning the make-up of voting officials and the list goes on. Why? Because all of the changes reduce the number of voters. All of the proposals come from Republican law makers, most of which justify their proposals on "possible fraud", not actual verified fraud. Is it because more voters/votes are for Democrats and fewer for Republicans? I believe so. What the Republicans don't realize is that all of these proposals affect Republican voters too. They are like a circular firing squad.
Jerry Lujan
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Steinberg, Northwest side
Re: the March 10 letter "America must produce more oil."
A letter in the March 10 Star states that “Washington needs to wake up and smell the petroleum”; that environmentalists are a “cabal of radicals” engaged on a “quixotic pursuit of environmental purity” and that increasing our oil production is the best way to weaken Russia.
Not to dwell on how many months? years? it would take to significantly ramp up domestic production, nowhere in the letter is there any reference to global warming!
I guess that isn’t a problem, after all—just stick our heads in the sand and pretend there is no such thing!
That strategy worked out well in dealing with Covid when it surfaced two years ago, didn’t it?
David Steinberg
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Donovan-Popa, Southwest side
Dear President Biden,
Putin must be stopped. He will always threaten to use nuclear arms as leverage to get what he wants. The only thing to stop Putin from killing innocent people and destroying Ukraine, is OUR Military.
Putin has already started the Third World War. Of course, you and the USA will be blamed; so be it! We know that isn’t true! Are we going to wait to help them until there is no one left to help in Ukraine?
We can NOT stand by and watch this madman slaughter these incredibly brave people!!!
We have children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and dear friends whom we want to protect! Withholding our Military from fighting against Putin is putting our loved ones in even greater peril! The only thing Putin understands is bullets and bombs! The time is NOW!!!
We implore you to send in our Military into Ukraine and kick Putin’s butt back to Russia!!!
Mary Donovan-Popa
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Kelly lowering
our health costs
Families across Arizona have faced exorbitant costs for health care and medicines. And with the prices of other necessities like gas and groceries rising, the last thing we need are excessively high health care costs, too.
Sen. Mark Kelly has worked hard to lower health care costs for Arizonans. By voting for the American Rescue Plan, lower health insurance premiums have given more Arizonans access to affordable care. He is also fighting to bring down the cost of prescription drugs by giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices. Kelly supports a bill that would cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35 per month, ensuring that Arizonans with diabetes can afford the lifesaving medicine.
We need our representatives to stand up to Big Pharma and fight hard to bring down health care costs and make sure Arizona families can pay their bills and get the health care they need. Please join me in supporting Sen. Kelly to do just that.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Voting proposals
to hurt GOP, too
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is attributed to Bert Lance, former director of the Office of Management and Budget for President Jimmy Carter. That should apply to the electoral process in many states. However, several states are enacting laws and election officials to prevent voter fraud. These proposals, and in some cases already laws, affect how voting takes place, i.e., eliminating mail-in-voting, early voting, reducing the number of polling places, eliminating drop boxes, making voting only one day, proposals concerning the makeup of voting officials and the list goes on. Why? Because all of the changes reduce the number of voters. All of the proposals come from Republican lawmakers, most of which justify their proposals on "possible fraud," not actual verified fraud. Is it because more voters/votes are for Democrats and fewer for Republicans? I believe so. What the Republicans don't realize is that all of these proposals affect Republican voters, too. They are like a circular firing squad.
Jerry Lujan
SaddleBrooke
An Arizona sports
crossover fantasy
As I have watched in amazement this year's phenomenal progress related to our University of Arizona men's basketball team, a really cool vision comes into my mind.
Athletic Director Dave Heeke needs to introduce head men's basketball coach Tommy Lloyd to head football coach Jedd Fisch and present the idea of Oumar Ballo picking up and throwing around a pigskin.
As I see Oumar grab a rebound, kick out the ball, run down court like a locomotive, stop and dunk for two ... I fantasize about him lining up at tight end, running a precise pass route, jumping eleven feet in the air, catching the football and bowling over five defenders as he streaks for the end zone.
If you don't think this can happen then think about Antonio Gates, 16-year veteran of the NFL as a tight end who played only collegiate basketball for my alma mater, Kent State University.
There is plenty of Oumar to go around! Get talking Dave, Tommy, Jedd ... then go ask Oumar.
Bert Hanson
Northwest side
Militarily push
the invaders out
Dear President Biden,
Vladimir Putin must be stopped. He will always threaten to use nuclear arms as leverage to get what he wants. The only thing to stop Putin from killing innocent people and destroying Ukraine is our military.
Putin has already started the Third World War. Of course, you and the USA will be blamed; so be it! We know that isn’t true! Are we going to wait to help them until there is no one left to help in Ukraine?
We cannot stand by and watch this madman slaughter these incredibly brave people!
We have children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and dear friends whom we want to protect. Withholding our military from fighting against Putin is putting our loved ones in even greater peril. The only thing Putin understands is bullets and bombs. The time is now!
We implore you to send in our military into Ukraine and kick Putin back to Russia.
Mary Donovan-Popa
Southwest side
Additional oil
is no solution
Re: the March 10 letter "America must produce more oil."
This letter states that “Washington needs to wake up and smell the petroleum,” that environmentalists are a “cabal of radicals” engaged on a “quixotic pursuit of environmental purity” and that increasing our oil production is the best way to weaken Russia.
Not to dwell on how many months/years it would take to significantly ramp up domestic production, nowhere in the letter is there any reference to global warming.
I guess that isn’t a problem, after all — just stick our heads in the sand and pretend there is no such thing.
That strategy worked out well in dealing with COVID when it surfaced two years ago, didn’t it?
David Steinberg
Northwest side
A reminder that
Ducey is a kid
I was taken aback by Gov. Doug Ducey's comment, referring to rising gas prices, that "It's like nothing we've seen in our lifetime." At first I thought that perhaps the governor's lifetime has only been a couple of decades long, but of course he would probably not have been able to win the state's highest office as an adolescent. Then I realized that Ducey's "lifetime" is indeed a lot shorter than that of many of his constituents, myself included, for whom memories of the 1970s have not faded away, in spite of our comparatively protracted "lifetimes."
Steve Robinson
Oro Valley
Trump supporters
don't back Putin
Re: the March 16 letter "Trump 'patriots' cheer on Putin."
In response to accusations made by your letter writer, I am a proud Trump supporter and do not know of a single Trump supporter that is in favor of Vladimir Putin’s tyrannical actions. And in fact, neither is Donald Trump or Tucker Carlson. If you actually spent the time to watch Carlson’s program you would know that.
Susan Antonopulos
Sabino Canyon
- N.C. Arnold, Green Valley
I wonder if Russia invaded the U.S. would Americans come together and fight for our precious democracy like the brave Ukrainians or would some welcome Putin with flowers and open arms?
N.C. Arnold
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Debbi Golden-Davis, East side
I have two connections to Ukraine. Three of my grandparents were born there, and came to the USA as children. My father's mother lost most or all of her family in the 1940's when the Nazis brutally killed entire Jewish towns. I was only 3 when she died, so did not get any details.
In 1996, when I still lived in Atlanta, I volunteered with the Ukrainian Paralympic Team. I am very concerned about them and their families. Life is awful for most Ukrainians now, how much worse would it be for people who cannot walk long distances to escape?
Debbi Golden-Davis
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Donna Pierce, Northeast side
Today’s America has become divided and it is disheartening. To me, our two Party system has made this possible. We elect representatives based on our Party affiliation even if the representative is not worthy of the honor we are bestowing on them.
My vision would be for all of us to ask to change our voter registration to Other. That would tell these Politicians that they serve us, we do not serve them. They would actually have to tell us what they believe in and what’s they would do if elected instead of telling us how awful the “Other Party” is.
In Arizona, you can still vote in the Primaries if you don’t declare a Party affiliation. When you ask for a ballot, you can choose a Party at that time.
I never want to hear a President say they want “my people” to sit at attention like they do for another Authoritarian leader. We are not their people, they are our representatives.
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Craig Miller, Northwest side
I remember once Bill Maher said he would be a Republican if only they were. Once they were for a strong defense, not sucking up to tyrants. Fox News and Trump both have voiced pro Putin views, "he's a genius" , etc. Supposedly they wanted a balanced budget, which last happened under Clinton, and for a smaller government, which grew greatly under Trump and Bush. They passed tax breaks for the rich. Trickle down economics contributed to the deficit that benefited only the wealthy. And lastly a government which isn't involved in citizens' lives, if only that were so.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mike Wayne, Midtown
Trump enacted pro oil and natural gas drilling and exportation policies like in Keystone and ANWAR. The results were lower energy costs for Americans. Trump did not want America to be dependent on dictator countries like Russia for our fuel supplies and saw energy independence as a national security issue. He publically criticized Germany's Merkel for doing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline deal with Russia saying it could lead to energy blackmail and enrich Russia. Trump placed sanctions on that pipeline, which Biden lifted. There is already a Nord Stream 1 pipeline still carrying oil and gas from Russia to Europe! Trump condemned NATO countries for their decades of not spending pledged amounts of GDP on military defense. He was successful in getting NATO to increase their defense budgets. However, it is only now, after Russia invaded Ukraine that NATO has awakened to the need of spending more. Meanwhile, reports are that leaders in Saudi Arabia and UAE rejected phone calls from Biden pleading for higher oil production. Brilliant Joe!
Mike Wayne
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Norman Patten, Midtown
Just read where Senator Joe Manchin said, " I don't want to have to be standing in line waiting for a battery" regarding EVs. Joe, if life were only that difficult! Because you refuse to back any version of "build back better" many American's are standing in line for basic needs. The nation is waiting on much needed climate change legislation and, I just recently heard you will oppose the President's candidate for the FED on climate issues. Perhaps Joe, you should move to Russia. People there, who place themselves above all others, can become President. I mean, Putin's older than you and he needs a successor! I am not a radical liberal progressive. But, I know that one Senator can't place himself above the majority needs; yet you consistently do. Can I donate to your ticket to Russia?
Norman Patten
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Cohen-Joppa, Midtown
Re: the March 13 article "Is Tucson still a nuke target?"
Thanks to David Teter for reminding us that however unthinkable, we should not stop thinking about Tucson as a nuclear target. Left unsaid in Sunday’s page 1 feature story is that not only would nuclear war "destroy the nation's transportation, communication, power, water and manufacturing capabilities”, but it would overwhelm health care, public safety and emergency response as well. Just a handful of nuclear blasts could also create a "nuclear winter.” The radioactive ash from burning cities like Tucson will poison the rain and dim the sunshine for years, wreaking global havoc with food production.
But it is not hopeless. It's a long shot, but the majority of the nations on earth have already blazed the trail by adopting and ratifying the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Now it's our job in the nine nuclear nations to delegitimize these weapons and demand our governments join this Treaty.
Jack Cohen-Joppa
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steven Lesh, East side
However you feel about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, preserving good relations is essential in transitioning to electric vehicles. In addition to oil, Russia has the world’s:
• largest reserves of magnesium
• 2nd largest reserves of vanadium.
• 4th largest reserves of nickel
A thought experiment might help achieve a little more understanding if not sympathy for Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine. If you were an American president watching the steady buildup of Mexican military capability by an alliance of foreign powers, a buildup which you had cautioned for more than 30 years could not be tolerated, what would you do? Throw in the expenditure of more than $5 billion to ‘promote democracy’ and a violent coup d’etat that overthrew a democratically elected government and replaced it with one bent on reclaiming the territory it lost in the Mexican-American War and ridding itself of US citizens living in Canada.
Best not to mix geopolitics and business. There are no saints in either profession.
Steven Lesh
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Thankful Biden confronts Putin
The world is in a crisis now, but thank God we have President Joseph R. Biden in charge. He has assembled a global band of brothers in standing up to the Russian dictator President Vladimir Putin. One can only imagine the horror we would have now, if the apologist failed former President Donald Trump was in charge. Always remember that disgraced Trump called Putin a best friend and a genius. Trump’s weakness is now on full display for all.
David Keating
Northeast side
Electric cars and Russia
However you feel about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, preserving good relations is essential in transitioning to electric vehicles. In addition to oil, Russia has enormous reserves of magnesium, vanadium and nickel.
A thought experiment might help achieve a little more understanding, if not sympathy for Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine. If you were an American president watching the steady buildup of Mexican military capability by an alliance of foreign powers, a buildup which you had cautioned for more than 30 years could not be tolerated, what would you do? Throw in the expenditure of more than $5 billion to “promote democracy” and a violent coup d’etat that overthrew a democratically elected government and replaced it with one bent on reclaiming the territory it lost in the Mexican-American War and ridding itself of U.S. citizens living in Canada.
Best not to mix geopolitics and business. There are no saints in either profession.
Steven Lesh
East side
Nuclear war or nuclear ban?
Re: the March 13 article “Is Tucson still a nuke target?”
Thanks to David Teter for reminding us that however unthinkable, we should not stop thinking about Tucson as a nuclear target. Left unsaid in this article is that not only would nuclear war “destroy the nation’s transportation, communication, power, water and manufacturing capabilities,” but it would overwhelm health care, public safety and emergency response as well. Just a handful of nuclear blasts could also create a “nuclear winter.” The radioactive ash from burning cities like Tucson will poison the rain and dim the sunshine for years, wreaking global havoc with food production.
But it is not hopeless. It’s a long shot, but the majority of the nations on earth have already blazed the trail by adopting and ratifying the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Now it’s our job in the nine nuclear nations to delegitimize these weapons and demand our governments join this treaty.
Jack Cohen-Joppa
Midtown
Manchin should move to Russia
Just read where Sen. Joe Manchin said, “I don’t want to have to be standing in line waiting for a battery” regarding electric vehicles. Joe, if life were only that difficult! Because you refuse to back any version of Build Back Better, many Americans are standing in line for basic needs. The nation is waiting on much-needed climate change legislation, and I just recently heard you will oppose the president’s candidate for the Fed on climate issues. Perhaps, Joe, you should move to Russia. People there, who place themselves above all others, can become president. I mean, Vladimir Putin is older than you, and he needs a successor. I am not a radical liberal progressive. But, I know that one senator can’t place himself above the majority needs; yet you consistently do. Can I donate to your ticket to Russia?
Norman Patten
Midtown
Who will fight for freedom?I wonder if Russia invaded the U.S. would Americans come together and fight for our precious democracy like the brave Ukrainians, or would some welcome Vladimir Putin with flowers and open arms?
N.C. Arnold
Green Valley
Connections to Ukraine
I have two connections to Ukraine. Three of my grandparents were born there, and came to the USA as children. My father’s mother lost most or all of her family in the 1940s, when the Nazis brutally killed entire Jewish towns. I was only 3 when she died so did not get any details. In 1996, when I still lived in Atlanta, I volunteered with the Ukrainian Paralympic Team. I am very concerned about them and their families. Life is awful for most Ukrainians now; how much worse would it be for people who cannot walk long distances to escape?
Debbi Golden-Davis
East side
Trump was right on energy issues
Donald Trump enacted pro-oil and natural gas drilling and exportation policies like Keystone and ANWR. The results were lower energy costs for Americans. I believe Trump did not want America to be dependent on dictator countries like Russia for our fuel supplies and saw energy independence as a national security issue. He publicly criticized Germany’s Angela Merkel for doing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline deal with Russia, saying it could lead to energy blackmail and enrich Russia. Trump placed sanctions on that pipeline, which Biden lifted. There is already a Nord Stream 1 pipeline still carrying oil and gas from Russia to Europe! Trump condemned NATO countries for their decades of not spending pledged amounts of GDP on military defense. He was successful in getting NATO to increase their defense budgets. However, it is only now, after Russia invaded Ukraine that NATO has awakened to the need of spending more. Meanwhile, reports are that leaders in Saudi Arabia and UAE rejected phone calls from Biden pleading for higher oil production. Brilliant, Joe!
Mike Wayne
Midtown
GOP betrays its own values
I remember once Bill Maher said he would be a Republican if only they were. Once they were for a strong defense, not sucking up to tyrants. Fox News and Donald Trump both have voiced pro-Putin views, “he’s a genius,” etc. Supposedly they wanted a balanced budget, which last happened under Bill Clinton, and for a smaller government, which grew greatly under Trump and George W. Bush. They passed tax breaks for the rich. I think trickle-down economics contributed to the deficit that benefited only the wealthy. And lastly a government that isn’t involved in citizens’ lives, if only that were so.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
Disheartening division in US
Today’s America has become divided and it is disheartening. To me, our two-party system has made this possible. We elect representatives based on our party affiliation even if the representative is not worthy of the honor we are bestowing on them. My vision would be for all of us to ask to change our voter registration to “other.” That would tell these politicians that they serve us, we do not serve them. They would actually have to tell us what they believe in and what they would do if elected instead of telling us how awful the “other party” is.
In Arizona, you can still vote in the primaries if you don’t declare a party affiliation. When you ask for a ballot, you can choose a party at that time.
I never want to hear a president say they want “my people” to sit at attention like they do for another authoritarian leader. We are not their people, they are our representatives.
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
More anti-wolf legislation in AZ
The Arizona House passed HB 2181 prohibiting state authorities from stopping anyone from killing a wolf who feels “threatened” by one. It’s a confusing bill, given that Mexican gray wolf numbers were decimated for decades, resulting in current federal protections under the Endangered Species Act.
This legislation is anti-wolf, similar to other state bills that have been in direct conflict with the Endangered Species Act and ignore the science of extensive wolf research, which indicates wolves are sentient, socially oriented animals that thrive as a family unit. Killing an alpha wolf rips apart the cohesion of a family and destroys its continuity.
Wolves successfully balance ecosystems by preventing overgrazing of ungulates through predation. Wolves have been baited, trapped, poisoned, tortured, gassed, shot and killed since European settlers arrived.
For decades our government set up bounties and almost exterminated wolves. Arizona legislators cause confusion and sanction wolf killings when they support anti-wolf bills. Tell your legislators to protect Arizona wolves.
Linda Dugan
Midtown
- Judy J Gillies, Oro Valley
A year ago, Arizonans sent Joe Biden and Sen. Mark Kelly to Washington with a clear mandate to fix the economy, which had been wracked by the coronavirus pandemic. They got to work right away and passed the American Rescue Plan, and a year later we are still seeing the benefits. Thanks to Senator Kelly and President Biden's leadership, the economy has added more than 7 million jobs nationwide, $8.5 billion in relief checks went out to 3.2 million Arizonans, and 1.5 million Arizona children were helped by the Child Tax Credit, not to mention the businesses who were able to keep their doors open and their lights on. Recovering from the pandemic has not been easy and we are not out of the woods yet but it is worth looking back at how far we've come. I'm grateful to have leaders like Sen. Kelly and President Biden in Arizona's corner and I know there are brighter days ahead.
Judy J Gillies
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- May Hines, Midtown
To all the girl's sports, coaches, players, and teams. It has been 50 years since Title IX was passed. Thank you Title IX! You have given girls the opportunity for scholarships to compete on a higher level, and to become known to sports fans. Happy 50TH Title IX.
May Hines
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Buus, East side
Baseball is the national game. Or so I had thought. I also assumed that it would constitute a unifying social adhesive for these fractionated, parlous times. Wrong again. It now appears as though it will merely be another truncated series of selfish spats, egos on display for purely private needs.
Without continuity, there are no comparisons. Without complete seasons, statistics mean nothing. I suppose I should have seen this coming with the advent of designated hitters and game-shortening rules.
The owners and the players have forgotten the magical beauty of a five-year-old’s first trip downtown to the emerald cavern of his team’s stadium…. forgotten the joy of impersonating Mickey Mantle on the sandlots of our adolescence.
Everything is sullied with trivial disagreements and perverse pride. Piece by cork-filled piece, the sport is falling apart.
So, who is the designated shitter now?
Rise up, my fellow fans, and communicate your deep disappointments, or lose this beautiful game forever.
David Buus
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Graef, SaddleBrooke
While Putin’s hordes commit genocide on the ground and from the air, the “free world” stands by, justifying its moral paralysis by asserting Ukraine is not part of NATO, and there’s too great a “risk” of provoking Putin into a nuclear war. True, that’s a risk, but the consequences of not acting, like implementing a “no fly” zone, are equally dire, like encouraging expanded Putin adventurism, and Chinese aggression toward Taiwan. We’ve united the world in “condemning” Putin; we’ve enacted serious “sanctions” on Russia; we’re sending money and weapons; but these “actions” haven’t stopped the carnage. Mexico is not a NATO member. Would we stand by if Russia attacked Mexico? Israel is not a NATO member. Would we stand by if Russia attacked Israel, even at the risk of a nuclear conflict? Not as chance. Ukraine is no different.
Jack Graef
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Victor Panizzon, Northwest side
I find it difficult to believe that the United States is not opening its arms to the abundance of immigrants leaving Ukraine. They are truly victims of war crimes and in need of our help. While Biden has essentially opened our southern borders to just about every individual regardless of their past, he has turned his back on the victims of the worst humanitarian disaster in my memory. He is not alone in this slight, Congress has no problem approving a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine but hasn’t addressed this issue. We should treat the Ukrainian people at least as well as our southern neighbors. They are victims of verifiable war crimes.
Victor Panizzon
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
The GOP and Republicans are hell bent on changing the ways Americans cast their votes in elections, while making it more difficult for the officials in charge of counting and certifying everyones vote. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we have been voting early by mail for decades, now all of sudden it’s wrong and change is needed according to the GOP and Republicans. There has been no proof whatsoever of any wrongdoing in the way votes have been cast or counted. Surely there are more important matters that will help our nation that the GOP and Republicans can investigate and enact changes on. One thing is for certain, no obstacle or voting change will prevent me from voting and I won’t be voting for the party that starts with “R”. Thanks for making my ballot selections easier.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
There is a political technique that has been used in this country that has been used in the past by several leaders of foreign countries. It involves the creation of an unreal menace that is used to frighten and anger followers of a political party. This fear and anger is weaponized by the leader for political gain. This created menace is usually something that runs totally contrary to patriotic beliefs and therefore causes outrage, victimhood and vengeance. The purpose of created menaces is the manipulation of thinking, division of political stances and the rejection of other political ideas. Trump’s claim that the 2020 election was stolen is an example of this technique. There was outrage and anger, and vengeance was taken. The rioters on Jan 6th felt that they had to correct a wrong, but the wrong they were correcting was a phantom. Creating menaces was and is common in fascist politics. It behooves the electorate to be able to detect this treacherous technique before it metastasizes.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Willie Dickerson, Northwest side
Re: the March 14 letter "Time to ditch fossil fuels."
Dear Editor,
Thanks to the letter writer for reminding us of this critical time to take action to battle climate change. Indeed, this is a perfect time, with the world coming together to battle Ukraine’s invaders, Congress working together to pass a bipartisan budget, and the pandemic shining a light on the equity crises we face. In addition to bringing the free world together to support Ukraine, the President also announced hosting this year’s funding conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria. The Global Fund works with middle and low income countries to strengthen health care systems, save lives, and battle pandemics, including COVID. Last year’s increase to the Child Tax Credit showed we can cut domestic poverty if we take action. So speak up to those who represent you and let’s move Congress to battle all of these current challenges, the time is now for this combined “moonshot."
Willie Dickerson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Felicia Chew, Midtown
I am a teacher. Here is why and how I keep on teaching: I do the Dory: "Just keep swimming."
I took time off from teaching: worked as a substitute, in customer service, as an independent consultant, ran for political office.
I realized the best place for me is in a school, understanding the spheres of control, influence, concern, and bubbling up (setting healthy boundaries).
I remember my intent and purpose. I know the standards; I explain how my teaching uses evidence-based instruction; that I teach the standards, and help students become effective communicators, complex thinkers, self-motivated learners.
I remember these Truths:
- "We plant seeds as educators."
- "It takes time for people to learn."
- "People learn in different ways."
I keep teaching.
I press on, in spite of the ugliness of the world.
If you haven't read it recently, check out Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise".
I believe in humanity, so I press on.
Felicia Chew
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Battle over
the ballots
The Republicans are hellbent on changing the ways Americans cast their votes in elections, while making it more difficult for the officials in charge of counting and certifying everyone's vote. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that we have been voting early by mail for decades, now all of sudden it’s wrong and change is needed according to Republicans. There has been no proof whatsoever of any wrongdoing in the way votes have been cast or counted. Surely there are more important matters that will help our nation that the GOP and Republicans can investigate and enact changes on. One thing is for certain, no obstacle or voting change will prevent me from voting and I won’t be voting for the party that starts with “R”. Thanks for making my ballot selections easier.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Talk, talk, talk
on education
Regarding recent Republican wrangling of school funding.
If you ever want to know what a society truly holds important, don’t listen to the rhetoric. Ignore the wish list. Skip the speeches to the big cheering crowds. Blow off all the “I believe” statements made by politicians and general public alike.
To learn what a society holds important, what it really holds near and dear to its heart, look at what that society actually pays for. When we search our collective couches, where do we send our change? That is the No. 1 priority of a society. Anything else is just delusional lies.
Signed, a teacher that has had enough of hearing about how important education is.
David Reynolds
East side
Actual victims
of war crimes
Re: the March 20 article "These refugees have an easier go."
I find it difficult to believe that the United States is not opening its arms to the abundance of immigrants leaving Ukraine. They are truly victims of war crimes and in need of our help. I think Joe Biden has essentially opened our southern borders, but he has turned his back on the victims of the worst humanitarian disaster in my memory. He is not alone in this slight, Congress has no problem approving a billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine but hasn’t addressed this issue. We should treat the Ukrainian people at least as well as our southern neighbors. They are victims of verifiable war crimes.
Victor Panizzon
Northwest side
Improve slate
of candidates
All his life he wanted to be president. When he got the job he wasn't up to it. Almost no one has been. Only four or five have been, none in this century. The same can be said about every incumbent, in any and every office in the land. Look what we, and most other states, have for governors. And attorneys general. Most particularly, state legislators. And senators and House representatives. It's to laugh, when not crying. And being embarrassed. The villain is self-selection: Who asked any of them to run?
We need a process by which voters ask people if they want to run for office — every office. Those who are willing then do a primary when necessary, to select those to be the final candidate when necessary, in the general election. Hopefully, we minimize the ego-driven, those with an agenda, those with a power need. We might actually get service.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
No time like
the present
Re: the March 14 letter "Time to ditch fossil fuels."
Thanks to the letter writer for reminding us of this critical time to take action to battle climate change. Indeed, this is a perfect time, with the world coming together to battle Ukraine’s invaders, Congress working together to pass a bipartisan budget, and the pandemic shining a light on the equity crisis we face. In addition to bringing the free world together to support Ukraine, the president also announced hosting this year’s funding conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and malaria. The Global Fund works with middle- and low-income countries to strengthen health care systems, save lives and battle pandemics, including COVID. Last year’s increase to the child tax credit showed we can cut domestic poverty if we take action. So speak up to those who represent you and let’s move Congress to battle all of these current challenges, the time is now for this combined “moonshot."
Willie Dickerson
Northwest side
Hopeful teacher
presses forward
I am a teacher. Here is why and how I keep on teaching: I do the Dory: "Just keep swimming."
I took time off from teaching, worked as a substitute, in customer service, as an independent consultant, ran for political office.
I realized the best place for me is in a school, understanding the spheres of control, influence, concern and bubbling up (setting healthy boundaries).
I remember my intent and purpose. I know the standards, I explain how my teaching uses evidence-based instruction, that I teach the standards, and help students become effective communicators, complex thinkers, self-motivated learners.
I remember these truths:
- "We plant seeds as educators."
- "It takes time for people to learn."
- "People learn in different ways."
I keep teaching. I press on, in spite of the ugliness of the world. If you haven't read it recently, check out Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise." I believe in humanity, so I press on.
Felicia Chew
Midtown
Independents
hold the key
Re: the March 20 article "State GOP to voters: How dare you?"
I have known for years that the only way to stop playing whack-a-mole with the bad bills at the Legislature was to get different people elected. But how? Lynne Hudson in her recent op-ed had a brilliant idea: Get moderate Republicans to run for office and convince independents to request a Republican ballot for the primary. Bingo! We would get the extremists out so real dialogue could take place at the Capitol. Thank you, Lynne! If this actually happened we could stop spending our time getting petitions signed and sit back and enjoy life in our beautiful state.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Weaponization
of fear, anger
There is a political technique that has been used in this country that has been used in the past by several leaders of foreign countries. It involves the creation of an unreal menace that is used to frighten and anger followers of a political party. This fear and anger is weaponized by the leader for political gain. This created menace is usually something that runs totally contrary to patriotic beliefs and therefore causes outrage, victimhood and vengeance. The purpose of created menaces is the manipulation of thinking, division of political stances and the rejection of other political ideas. Donald Trump’s claim that the 2020 election was stolen is an example of this technique. There was outrage and anger, and vengeance was taken. The rioters on Jan. 6 felt that they had to correct a wrong, but the wrong they were correcting was a phantom. Creating menaces was and is common in fascist politics. It behooves the electorate to be able to detect this treacherous technique before it metastasizes.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
The U. S. is in the middle of a supply chain nightmare. Shelves are bare everywhere. There’s still a large number of container ships waiting to enter the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Currently, the US reports a shortage of around 60,000 drivers. Meanwhile, we have to endure these freedom convoys in Canada and the U.S. causing loss of jobs while workers miss out on millions of dollars in lost wages, all because of vaccine mandate protests at key U.S.-Canada trade crossings. It’s uncertain if any of these truckers are aware of this, but several companies in the U.S. are coming out with autonomous self driving trucks. Tusimple is currently testing their trucks in Tucson and another company, Aurora is set to launch a driverless commercial by the end of 2023. Are these protesting truckers part of the solution or part of the problem?
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Michael Perdue, Vail
Re: the March 22 letter "Political weakness."
To respond to your requests to answer your two questions, I tried to locate the “Association of Far Left, Green, New Deal Democrats” to get a statement on why they are controlling our President, but couldn’t locate their website for some reason? As to why President Biden is “so weak”, maybe you could send a note to Mitch McConnell who thinks that other than his not providing a few used fighter planes to Ukraine, he is doing a “pretty good job” there. Maybe he should start some useless and frivolous trade wars with our NATO allies to prove his strength!? I wonder if the Russians and Chinese agree that he is “so weak”?
Michael Perdue
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Toni Kane, Oro Valley
Re: the March 22 letter "Teach, don't indoctrinate."
I agree with the writer on only one opinion, the Republican Party is not responsible for the "dying" of public education. Many citizens are responsible for the squashing of the system.
Other opinions generated by the writer, no consensus. First, teacher unions advocate for the rights of teachers--right of greater pay, the right of smaller class sizes, the right to honest curriculum, the right to provide an honest education, not indoctrination. Second, school boards function as management, as do principals and others in management. Third, the Red for Education was a movement to draw attention to some of needs of public education. One, I particularly support is greater salary compensation. It seems the more that you make, the more you are respected.
The very conservative writer needs to be caught up on education lingo: math is taught, not arithmetic.
As for vouchers: many parents believe that the grass is greener on the other side. They believe they understand education because they, themselves, went to public schools.
Toni Kane
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Smith, Foothills
Re: the March 22 article "Being Republican vs. being conservative."
As an 81 year old lifelong liberal I was fascinated by Lynn Schmidt's article listing the 15 principles of Conservatism from the Principles First Summit. The only principle listed that I question is #12 - "Civic associations, faith communities and families should be. the primary engines of our culture- not the state". I'm not sure what a culture engine is but certainly it's not the state. Who can argue against basic principles like "Integrity, character and virtue matter" or "Equality of opportunity, not equality of outcomes". If these are true conservative values liberals and conservatives may not be that far apart in our core beliefs. Our divisions may be driven by political party dogma.
Morton Smith
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Miller-Pinhey, Foothills
One simple question and I welcome a response. Why is Vladimir Putin the only person on this earth that Donald Trump (Insult slinger in chief) has never dared criticize?
Susan Miller-Pinhey
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kathleen Dubbs, West side
Two recent opinion pieces in the Daily Star mentioned the double standard we seem to have with refugees. Americans welcome Ukrainians asking for asylum at our borders, but turn away brown-skinned people who experience similar trauma. Maybe we need to examine our thinking a little closer and make our opinions known to those who have the power to change things.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sheldon Metz, Northeast side
Americans must understand we will have to fight Russia at some point in time. Unfortunately, Western Powers have coddled Vladimir Putin to a point where he believes we are weak and ineffectual in stopping him, much like any bully on a school campus. The lesser the defense, the greater the power.
George W. "looked into his eyes and saw a soul…." But he also saw, at the very same time, "He is a very aggressive person who wants to reinstate Soviet influence, even though the Soviet [Union] no longer exists, and therefore, I always felt it was very important for the United States to be very forceful in dealing with Putin. Not belligerent, but forceful." Obama lightly sanctioned Putin but wasn't powerful enough to cause fear in Putin to encourage him to curtail his aggression. Trump gave Putin the appearance of our being hands-off. He supported and still braces his fellow authoritarian. Putin is aware of Trump's popularity amongst fascists in America. International pacts tie Biden's options somewhat.
Sheldon Metz
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Double standard on who we let in
Two recent opinion pieces in the Daily Star mentioned the double standard we seem to have with refugees. Americans welcome Ukrainians asking for asylum at our borders, but turn away brown-skinned people who experience similar trauma. Maybe we need to examine our thinking a little closer and make our opinions known to those who have the power to change things.
Kathleen Dubbs
West side
Centennial Hall restroom issue
Open letter to Robert C. Robbins, President, University of Arizona:
President Robbins: When I was at the university back in the 1960s, enrolled in the newly accredited College of Architecture, I remember the restroom situation at Centennial Hall was woefully inadequate, particularly for females. Today, the situation has not changed, with long lines at performance intermissions.
With the money being spent on new construction, is there not enough to enlarge Centennial Hall for adequate fixtures to accommodate full-capacity performances that last 180 minutes? The people attending these performances represent a cross section of Southern Arizona public as well as alumni.
With all due respect, your response to this question in this public forum would be most appreciated.
Roger Ulrich, architect AIA CSI NCARB (retired), class of 1970
Northwest side
A tax dividend, not a flat tax
Arizona has a tax surplus, so the Arizona Legislature continues to explore a flat tax. With a 2.5% flat-tax plan, Gov. Doug Ducey’s office says the “average taxpayer” will pocket on average $350. Some taxpayers (the wealthy) receive thousands of dollars while others get less than $50.
As an alternative to a flat tax that benefits the rich, how about a tax dividend that is refunded to all taxpayers instead? Same amount for each.
Advantages of a tax dividend compared to a flat tax include:
1. Everyone benefits equally.
2. The dividend can increase or decrease depending on state revenues. In good years we get more, in lean years we get less.
3. The state isn’t locked into a tax cut that will harm state services if revenues fall short.
4. The whole state gets a big economic shot in the arm when we receive our dividend checks and spend them.
I like the idea of a $350 dividend per taxpayer if revenues support it. Send me my check!
Tony Kuyper
Foothills
For the love of the arts
What a joy it has been to experience the return of live theater to stages throughout our special community and across the country. During the pandemic, talented performers who commit their lives to providing entertainment to others have experienced immeasurable hardships. During last weekend’s performances of Jersey Boys at Centennial Hall, signage and announcements stated that “for the protection of fellow patrons and performers, masks over the nose and mouth must be worn at all times.” It was disheartening to see fellow patrons ignore this requirement, even when approached by security personnel. I wonder if these individuals noticed that band members — and any other cast member without a line or a song — were wearing a mask, even while on stage. The moment the performers departed the venue from the stage door, each wore a highly protective KN95 mask. Their passion, livelihood and the joy they provide remains contingent upon the protection we provide them — and our fellow human beings … for the love of the arts.
Tracy Shake
Foothills
He sure doesn’t look weak to me
Re: the March 22 letter “Political weakness.”
To respond to your requests to answer your two questions, I tried to locate the “Association of Far Left, Green, New Deal Democrats” to get a statement on why they are controlling our president, but couldn’t locate their website for some reason? As to why President Joe Biden is “so weak,” maybe he should start some useless and frivolous trade wars with our NATO allies to prove his strength. I wonder if the Russians and Chinese agree that he is “so weak”?
Michael Perdue
Vail
Party dogma keeps us apart
Re: the March 22 article “Being Republican vs. being conservative.”
As an 81-year-old lifelong liberal I was fascinated by Lynn Schmidt’s article listing the 15 principles of conservatism from the Principles First Summit. The only principle listed that I question is No. 12 — “Civic associations, faith communities and families should be the primary engines of our culture — not the state.” I’m not sure what a culture engine is, but certainly it’s not the state. Who can argue against basic principles like “Integrity, character and virtue matter” or “Equality of opportunity, not equality of outcomes.” If these are true conservative values, liberals and conservatives may not be that far apart in our core beliefs. Our divisions may be driven by political party dogma.
Morton Smith
Foothills
Putin has Trump seal of approval
One simple question and I welcome a response. Why is Vladimir Putin the only person on this earth that Donald Trump has never dared criticize?
Susan Miller-Pinhey
Foothills
Clarifying some education issues
Re: the March 22 letter “Teach, don’t indoctrinate.”
I agree with the writer on only one opinion, the Republican Party is not responsible for the “dying” of public education. Many citizens are responsible for the squashing of the system.
Other opinions generated by the writer, no consensus. First, teacher unions advocate for the rights of teachers — right of greater pay, the right of smaller class sizes, the right to honest curriculum, the right to provide an honest education, not indoctrination.
Second, school boards function as management, as do principals and others in management.
Third, the Red for Education was a movement to draw attention to some of the needs of public education. One I particularly support is greater salary compensation. It seems the more that you make, the more you are respected.
The very conservative writer needs to be caught up on education lingo: Math is taught, not arithmetic.
As for vouchers: Many parents believe that the grass is greener on the other side. They believe they understand education because they, themselves, went to public schools.
Toni Kane
Oro Valley
- Kim Mathews, East side
It's good to hear a sane voice to counter the voices of the escalationists who suggest that there exists some form of limited nuclear war that can be survived or even won. They believe we can have a few "tactical" nuclear strikes here and there and somehow be o.k. That's magical thinking at its most delusional. True, destruction of the entire planet might not be immediate, and we older folks might not live to experience the worst effects of nuclear war. Our children, however, would be doomed to a brutal struggle for survival in a barren world as imagined, I think accurately, by Cormac McCarthy in his novel "The Road." Is this what we wish for those we love, or for anyone? A change of course is still possible, and absolutely necessary.
Kim Mathews
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Nancy Jacques, Northeast side
Thank you, Tim Steller, for “These Refugees Have an Easier Go.” We're horrified watching attacks on Ukrainians. Some might realize their reaction to bombing Syrians was different. Steller was tactful calling out our prejudices and immigration policies. Responding differently is what’s important today. In the past we’ve hated Irish, refused Jewish refugees during WWII, deported 400,000 to 1 million Mexicans AND Mexican American citizens in the Depression. Let’s be honest: Why does cartel crime exist? Is the US ever involved in Latin American politics? Are refugees a “burden?” Who does yard work in Tucson, cleans houses and takes care of our parents in long-term care facilities? Who washes restaurant dishes, builds, paints, lays roofs in desert heat? Plus, the US has been THE major contributor of climate change emissions already causing conflagrations and diaspora. Are we not responsible for receiving some percentage of the climate refugees our lifestyle choices cause? Isn’t it time to acknowledge our past and plan honestly for major immigration revisions?
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Max LaPlante, Southeast side
One of the earliest examples of a Buyback program occurred in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1974, Baltimore police paid residents US$50 per firearm, collecting roughly 13,500 over a two-month period. In a year, Australia purchased about 650,000 firearms from private residents, estimated to represent about 20 per cent of the country's privately owned guns. This would be a win-win scenario, as American cities would be reducing the number of guns in their towns and counties while sending them to Ukraine to fight Putin's army instead of melting them down. On another note, since Putin's army is using cluster munitions and vacuum bombs on Ukrainians, which are banned under the Geneva Convention, then why can't Ukraine in turn now use flame throwers and Napalm on Putin's 40-mile convoy heading towards Kyiv. The U. S. and its allies were very innovative during World War II. Help Ukraine.
Max LaPlante
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Deb Klumpp, Oro Valley
The letter "Lies of Russia" talked of Putin's egregious lies to the Russian people regarding atrocities in Ukraine. It warned Americans not to fall for these lies from Russia or from other countries. That really made me pause, thinking of just how many Americans bought, swallowed, and still embrace Donald Trump's lies, including the Big Lie that the election was stolen. Both Trump and Putin (who is an object of Trump's hero-worship) prey on, and count on, people accepting their lies. Both are serial liars. One difference - in America, the truth is readily accessible to anyone who wants it and who happens to believe that the truth matters.
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Deb Klumpp, Oro Valley
How heartbreaking the photo of the wounded pregnant woman being removed from the bombed maternity and childrens' hospital in Ukraine. What a horrendous symbol of Putin's "genius" - Trump's assessment of Putin's invasion. The usually "all day, everyday in your face" ex-president is uncharacteristically laying very low, strangely silent now. The situation in Ukraine and resulting world-wide outcry and damnation is creating a dilemma for him - how to transition from Putin hero-worshiper to international relations tough guy? All Americans should review the video of Trump's performance in Helsinki, as he took Putin's word over his own intelligence experts and cozied up to the dictator on the international stage. A stunning and glaringly revealing portrait of Trump that all should reflect on and remember.
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
The White House position is that America can buy oil pumped out of the ground in foreign countries but will not tolerate drilling in the US.
If this makes sense to you, then you are a Democrat.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Get to know the homeless
I recently adopted a cat I saw in the Arizona Daily Star and I thought — it seems we do more to help homeless pets in Tucson than we do to help ones experiencing homelessness. Maybe if one of your reporters went out once a week and talked to some of the homeless and every week wrote a story about one of them. If they could tell a little bit of their story in their own words maybe we would all be moved to do something for them. I know that many of them have made bad choices but often they are homeless just because of rotten luck. Maybe if we knew their stories it would help to get something done — surely homeless people are at least as deserving as homeless pets to get a second chance.
Nancy Silberschlag
Foothills
White House is incompetent
To all you Tucson Trump bashers: How do you like your $5 gas price? How do you like your Southwest Gas and Tucson Electric bills? Are you enjoying what you’re paying for groceries and anything else you’re spending your shrinking paycheck on? You’ve elected the most incompetent president and vice president in the history of this once great country. Open borders, critical race theory, white supremacy, Trump as a puppet to Putin. The entire Biden family is in Putin’s pocket.
When he shuts down our petroleum resources but gives Russia carte blanche for theirs while Biden sends Putin billions of our dollars and begs them for more without any reasonable way to convert us off fossil fuels except for us to pay through the nose to get us there. That’s just incompetence at the highest level.
Tom Roberts
Northwest side
Initiatives fly under the radar
Re: the March 18 letter “Government by, for the people.”
I am a volunteer with the current Arizonans for Fair Elections petition drive, which seeks to reinstate Permanent Early Voting, allow voting anywhere in the county where a person is registered, increase funding for Clean Elections candidates, and prevent the Legislature from overriding the voters in a presidential election. As Merrill Eisenberg wrote, Arizona’s Constitution was designed to promote democracy through popular referendum and initiative, as well as through our elected Legislature. But referenda and initiatives, which now require hundreds of thousands of signatures to get on the ballot, don’t get the kind of press coverage that activities in the Legislature get. Citizens may not hear about the referendum or initiative until it’s too late for them to sign it or organize an opposing effort. Newspapers like the Star could help to solve this problem by running a regular listing of signature-gathering efforts, with information about where and how to contact them.
Robert Wallace
Oro Valley
Teachers’ unions brought this on
The education bills passing through the Legislature will not break the public’s trust in government schools, but are a result of the complete forfeiture of trust that has already occurred. The argument against HB 2808 blames the students for their schools’ failure. There are proven public/private options that successfully educate the same children. I think the bills calling for more transparency in curriculum are a result of the teachers’ unions. I think it is the teachers’ unions along with their progressive allies who want to convince children that their parents are their enemies and threaten arrest if you object. I am also tired of the complaint that prohibitions on CRT-inspired teaching that tells white children they are evil based on their color alone are unnecessary.
Helen Moulton
Foothills
Escalationists living a fantasy
Re: the March 20 letter “Nuclear war or nuclear ban?”
It’s good to hear a sane voice to counter the voices of the escalationists who suggest that there exists some form of limited nuclear war that can be survived or even won. They believe we can have a few “tactical” nuclear strikes here and there and somehow be OK. That’s magical thinking at its most delusional. True, destruction of the entire planet might not be immediate, and we older folks might not live to experience the worst effects of nuclear war. Our children, however, would be doomed to a brutal struggle for survival in a barren world as imagined, I think accurately, by Cormac McCarthy in his novel “The Road.” Is this what we wish for those we love, or for anyone? A change of course is still possible, and absolutely necessary.
Kim Mathews
East side
On immigration, let’s be honest
Re: the March 20 article “These refugees have an easier go.”
Thank you, Tim Steller, for this article. We’re horrified watching the attacks on Ukrainians. Some might realize their reaction to bombing Syrians was different. Steller was tactful calling out our prejudices and immigration policies. I think responding differently is what’s important today. In the past we’ve hated Irish, refused Jewish refugees during WWII, deported 400,000 to 1 million Mexicans and Mexican American citizens in the Depression. Let’s be honest: Why does cartel crime exist? Is the U.S. ever involved in Latin American politics? Are refugees a “burden?” Who does yardwork in Tucson, cleans houses and takes care of our parents in long-term-care facilities? Who washes restaurant dishes, builds, paints, lays roofs in desert heat? Plus, the U.S. has been the major contributor of climate-change emissions already causing conflagrations and diaspora. Are we not responsible for receiving some percentage of the climate refugees our lifestyle choices cause? Isn’t it time to acknowledge our past and plan honestly for major immigration revisions?
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Steller visits my street family
Re: the March 9 article “Tucson should open sanctioned homeless camps.”
Tim Steller came to our camp between Congress Avenue and St. Mary’s. He interviewed Outbak (William Greenaway III) and me. I would like to thank him.
Four days ago, I was handed the key to my apartment from my caseworker, Selene. She is a housing coordinator who works for Community Partners Inc. I believe it was his article that led to me being housed, permanently. I also have to thank Alex Mendoza of the Pima County Housing and Outbak, as well as the rest of my street family, for helping me survive up till now.
I hope Steller continues to speak to those living on the streets here in Tucson, he was very kind, and we enjoyed talking to him. After reading his article, we realized there are a lot of people who are trying to help. We didn’t realize the amount of money that could be received from the federal government. May Tucson, Pima County, and Arizona be able receive this money and use it wisely.
Michelle LaLone
South Tucson
Disabled need absentee voting
Re: the March 21 article “Bill would end early voting, require hand count.”
I support a hand count of ballots within a 24-hour period. However, the proposed limitation on absentee voting is unfair to the many seniors with permanent disabilities making it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to participate in future voting. Restricting absentee voting to people who are “physically unable to go to the polls because of being hospitalized or in a nursing home” is too limiting. My 93-year-old husband served in the Caribbean Defense Command during WWII. Three years ago, he fell and broke his leg at the hip and has problems walking, standing and maintaining his balance despite physical therapy and constant use of a walker. I provide care for him on a 24/7 basis at our home. He is not in a nursing home, nor is he hospitalized. Absentee voting makes it possible for him to continue voting. HB 2289 needs to be amended to include all Arizona citizens with physical disabilities who cannot easily vote in person; regardless of where they reside.
Gail Gesell
Tubac
Why are private schools exempt?
Re: the March 15 article “Bill expands parent-teacher involvement.”
Our legislators are concerned about the transparency of what is being taught in public and charter schools. With the introduction of SB 1211 they hope to address this concern. The bill intends to make what is being taught readily available to parents and the public. A laudable goal since this information is often available already. But as with other education issues, private and parochial school are exempt. Why? Since some hold them up as shining examples, then I think what they teach should be available to us all also. I say the Arizona Legislature should include private and parochial schools in SB 1211.
Gary Benna
Midtown
- Walt Johnson, Foothills
2 Simple Questions and look forward to reading a response: 1. Why is Joe Biden so controlled by the far-left Green New Deal Democrats'? 2. Why is Joe Biden so weak? Looking forward to seeing the responses.
Walt Johnson
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ken Wolfe, Marana
I am a 80-year young Conservative, and have always voted Absentee. Democrats are trying to eliminate all impediments to voting, and Republicans are trying to change procedures to eliminate cheating. Election boards have given accurate, secure elections low priority as evidenced by substantiated examples of dead, unqualified, out-of-state people voting, incomplete ballots and illegal ballot harvesting. They have resisted allowing oversight at local polling locations. Secure, accurate elections SHOULD be the goal of every American to maintain our republic democracy. I believe all political goals can be accomplished while maintaining the ability to vote Absentee. It requires a Voter ID number combined with a robust system to maintain accurate voter records. At election time, ballots with the ID would be compared to the database, and only legal ballots accepted. The privilege to vote should include some responsibilities including the accurate completion of a ballot. Inaccurate ballots should be discarded. Requirements need to be implemented so that election results are known within 24 hours from polling closure.
Ken Wolfe
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tim Peterson, Northwest side
It’s time we call out Putin’s threats. The Russian government needs to understand there are consequences to threats of nuclear or chemical weapons use.
NO nation should be able to make these threats and not realize consequences for such. If not, then any nation with nuclear weapons will be able to do whatever they want knowing the rest of the world will stand back and watch.
Does this risk an all out war with Russia? Yes it does and that thought is unthinkable, but if not now when? How many more times will all other stable nations be held ransom to some dictator’s threats of nuclear or chemical retaliation? What will we do when China claims Taiwan? When North Korea claims the south? Iran?
The thought is scary as hell, but shouldn’t a stand be made the first time it happens instead of the third or fourth time?
What use is the UN if not to stop the unwarranted slaughter of a sovereign nation?
Tim Peterson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Matt Somers, Midtown
Marie Yovanovitch, Former US Ambassador to the Ukraine, was born in Canada. Fiona Hill, Former Senior Director for Europe and Russia at the United States National Security Council, was born in England. Alexander Vindman, Former Director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council, was born in Ukraine. These three people came to this country from elsewhere and have defended the United States against its enemies foreign and domestic while under pressure from Republicans.
Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican US Representative from Georgia, was born in the state of Georgia. Lauren Boebert, Republican US Representative from Colorado, was born in Florida. Madison Cawthorn, Republican US representative from North Carolina, was born in North Carolina. These latter three have used the First Amendment's Freedom of Speech to undermine the standing of the United States nationally and in the world.
Wouldn't it be nice if those representing the United States in Congress would actually support the United States, especially during Russian government's immoral invasion of Ukraine.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
As a result of the Russian attack against the Ukraine, gas prices have exploded globally. Arizonan drivers are suffering from the additional costs like everyone else, but Gov. Ducey refuses to help, blaming the Biden government as the culprit due to its ban on the Keystone XL pipeline since 2021. Ducey seems not to know anything about global energy politics and the basic economic factors. The Keystone pipeline would have shipped dirty oil extracted from Canadian tar sand down to New Orleans and from there to China, which would have had no impact on oil supplies in Arizona. The US imports only ca. 3 % of its oil needs from Russia, which is now cut off and could be easily substituted by our own production. The price explosion is hence not justified, and gouging of the consumers. Gov. Ducey could bring some assistance to the consumers, but he prefers to politicize the actual situation to the detriment of all Arizonans.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Janet Heetland, Green Valley
Please consider these comments the next time you hear Trump and his followers, without a shred of evidence, lie about a “stolen" election:
Repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth.
A lie told once remains a lie but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth.
The bigger the lie, the more it will be believed.
If you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it and you will even come to believe it yourself.
Propaganda works best when those who are being manipulated are confident they are acting on their own free will.
Wondering who made these comments? They are attributed to Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda Joseph Goebbels and demonstrate a law of propaganda known as “the illusion of truth”: Repetition makes a thing seem more true, regardless of whether it is or not.
Janet Heetland
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Marvin Montez, Oro Valley
The reason public education is dying is not due to the Republican Party but the policies and actions of teachers’ unions, “woke” school boards and the Red for Ed movement. You may not want to think it but public education is trying to sell a product, your kids’ education. These three groups have so polluted the reading, writing and arithmetic concept that droves of parents are looking for something else and that is private schools that meet their needs.
If the public school system is so excellent, why the max exodus when vouchers are offered? And those especially wanting the vouchers are the poor! Many realized how public education have utterly failed them. Public school officials and teachers are to blame for their failure to keep students in their schools.
We were the envy of the world until the Marxist took over the system. This is what a socialist system produces and most parents aren’t blind. Teach, don’t indoctrinate!
Marvin Montez
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Clyde R. Steele, Oro Valley
The article in Sunday’s Digest about a Federal Judge who ruled Kentucky clerk Kim Davis violated constitutional rights of same-sex couple by denying them a marriage license left off something about Ms. Davis. She was married four times. In applying for her many marriage licenses, what if the clerk on religious grounds refused to issue her a marriage license because she was divorced three times. Would she go to court on this? I wonder how far would she have taken this? Would she claim that God was on her side in getting married a four time? If Republican County Clerks start claiming religious freedom on every issue, can we then expect perhaps denying a marriage license to gun owners? One could only hope!
Clyde R. Steele
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Political weakness
Two simple questions and look forward to reading a response: 1. Why is Joe Biden so controlled by the far-left Green New Deal Democrats? 2. Why is Joe Biden so weak? Looking forward to seeing the responses.
Walt Johnson
Foothills
Teach, don’t indoctrinate
Re: the March 7 letter “Slow death of public education.”
I believe the reason public education is dying is not due to the Republican Party but the policies and actions of teachers’ unions, “woke” school boards and the Red for Ed movement. You may not want to think it, but public education is trying to sell a product, your kids’ education. These three groups have so polluted the reading, writing and arithmetic concept that droves of parents are looking for something else and that is private schools that meet their needs.
If the public school system is so excellent, why the max exodus when vouchers are offered? And those especially wanting the vouchers are the poor! Many realized how public education has utterly failed them. Public school officials and teachers are to blame for their failure to keep students in their schools.
We were the envy of the world until the Marxists took over the system. This is what a socialist system produces, and most parents aren’t blind. Teach, don’t indoctrinate!
Marvin Montez
Oro Valley
Adoption and Republicans
Having worked as a registered nurse for 38 years, I would like to know which one of you who identify as Republicans will adopt an uncared-for child, or care for a baby who has major health and behavioral problems, or fund a lifetime of medical care for a genetically compromised child?
Jerry Weinert
Midtown
It’s time to draw a line
It’s time we call out Putin’s threats. The Russian government needs to understand there are consequences to threats of nuclear or chemical weapons use.
No nation should be able to make these threats and not realize consequences for such. If not, then any nation with nuclear weapons will be able to do whatever they want, knowing the rest of the world will stand back and watch.
Does this risk an all-out war with Russia? Yes, it does and that thought is unthinkable, but if not now, when? How many more times will all other stable nations be held ransom to some dictator’s threats of nuclear or chemical retaliation? What will we do when China claims Taiwan? When North Korea claims the south? Iran?
The thought is scary, but shouldn’t a stand be made the first time it happens instead of the third or fourth time?
What use is the UN if not to stop the unwarranted slaughter of a sovereign nation?
Tim Peterson
Northwest side
Show support for home team
Marie Yovanovitch, former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, was born in Canada. Fiona Hill, former senior director for Europe and Russia at the United States National Security Council, was born in England. Alexander Vindman, former director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council, was born in Ukraine. These three people came to this country from elsewhere and have defended the United States against its enemies foreign and domestic while under pressure from Republicans.
Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican U.S. representative from Georgia, was born in the state of Georgia. Lauren Boebert, Republican U.S. representative from Colorado, was born in Florida. Madison Cawthorn, Republican U.S. representative from North Carolina, was born in North Carolina. These latter three have used the First Amendment’s freedom of speech to undermine the standing of the United States nationally and in the world.
Wouldn’t it be nice if those representing the United States in Congress would actually support the United States, especially during the Russian government’s immoral invasion of Ukraine?
Matt Somers
Midtown
Pleased by demise of Prop. 208
I am an Arizona independent, and I am delighted that Prop. 208 has been found unconstitutional.
I do not believe in class warfare, which is what I think Prop. 208 would have imposed. Class warfare is divisive in itself, and it is largely the high achievers who would have been punished by the tax surcharge.
I thank God(!) for Gov. Doug Ducey, whose sense of fiscal responsibility has brought Arizonans tax relief while increasing teacher salaries and otherwise maintaining sound schools that among many other good things, do not teach critical race theory.
Dr. James Stewart
Foothills
Elections
I am a 80-year-young conservative, and have always voted absentee. Democrats are trying to eliminate all impediments to voting, and Republicans are trying to change procedures to eliminate cheating. I believe election boards have given accurate, secure elections low priority. Secure, accurate elections should be the goal of every American to maintain our republic democracy.
I believe all political goals can be accomplished while maintaining the ability to vote absentee. It requires a voter ID number combined with a robust system to maintain accurate voter records. At election time, ballots with the ID would be compared to the database, and only legal ballots accepted.
The privilege to vote should include some responsibilities, including the accurate completion of a ballot. Inaccurate ballots should be discarded. Requirements need to be implemented so that election results are known within 24 hours from polling closure.
Ken Wolfe
Marana
The Big Lie
Please consider these comments the next time you hear Trump and his followers, without a shred of evidence, lie about a “stolen” election:
Repeat a lie often enough, and it becomes the truth.
A lie told once remains a lie, but a lie told a thousand times becomes the truth.
The bigger the lie, the more it will be believed.
If you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it and you will even come to believe it yourself.
Propaganda works best when those who are being manipulated are confident they are acting on their own free will.
Wondering who made these comments? They are attributed to Hitler’s minister of propaganda Joseph Goebbels and demonstrate a law of propaganda known as “the illusion of truth:” Repetition makes a thing seem more true, regardless of whether it is or not.
Janet Heetland
Green Valley
Gas price gouging and Gov. Ducey
As a result of the Russian attack against the Ukraine, gas prices have exploded globally. Arizona drivers are suffering from the additional costs like everyone else, but Gov. Doug Ducey refuses to help, blaming the Biden government as the culprit due to its ban on the Keystone XL pipeline since 2021. Ducey seems not to know anything about global energy politics and the basic economic factors.
The Keystone pipeline would have shipped dirty oil extracted from Canadian tar sand down to New Orleans and from there to China, which would have had no impact on oil supplies in Arizona. The U.S. imports only about 3% of its oil needs from Russia, which is now cut off and could be easily substituted by our own production.
The price explosion is hence not justified, and gouging of the consumers. Gov. Ducey could bring some assistance to the consumers, but he prefers to politicize the actual situation to the detriment of all Arizonans.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
- Steve Robinson, Oro Valley
I was taken aback by Gov. Ducey's comment, referring to rising gas prices, that "It's like nothing we've seen in our lifetime." At first I thought that perhaps the governor's lifetime has only been a couple of decades long, but of course he would probably not have been able to win the state's highest office as an adolescent. Then I realized that Ducey's "lifetime" is indeed a lot shorter than that of many of his constituents, myself included, for whom memories of the 1970s have not faded away, in spite of our comparatively protracted "lifetimes."
Steve Robinson
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Antonopulos, Sabino Canyon
Re: the March 16 letter "Trump 'patriots' cheer on P utin."
In response to accusations made by your letter writer, I am a proud Trump supporter and do not know of a single Trump supporter that is in favor of Putin’s tyrannical actions. And in fact, neither is Donald Trump or Tucker Carlson. If, you actually spent the time to watch Carlson’s program you would know that. I do see one of the requirements of this newspaper for printing a letter to the editor is no slander…..maybe the letter didn’t get edited?
Susan Antonopulos
Sabino Canyon
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bobbi Zimmer, Midtown
Families across Arizona have faced exorbitant costs for health care and medicines. And with the prices of other necessities like gas and groceries rising, the last thing we need are excessively high health care costs too.
Senator Kelly has worked hard to lower health care costs for Arizonans. By voting for the American Rescue Plan, lower health insurance premiums have given more Arizonans access to affordable care. He is also fighting to bring down the cost of prescription drugs by giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices. Kelly supports a bill that would cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35 per month, ensuring that Arizonans with diabetes can afford the life-saving medicine.
We need our representatives to stand up to big Pharma and fight hard to bring down health care costs and make sure Arizona families can pay their bills and get the health care they need. Please join me in supporting Senator Kelly to do just that.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jerry Lujan, SaddleBrooke
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is attributed to Bert Lance former Director of the Office of Management and Budget during President Jimmy Carter. That should apply to the electoral process in many states. However, several states are enacting laws and election officials to prevent voter fraud. These proposals, and in some cases already laws, affect how voting takes place, i.e., eliminating mail-in-voting, early voting, reducing the number of polling places, eliminating drop boxes, making voting only one day, proposals concerning the make-up of voting officials and the list goes on. Why? Because all of the changes reduce the number of voters. All of the proposals come from Republican law makers, most of which justify their proposals on "possible fraud", not actual verified fraud. Is it because more voters/votes are for Democrats and fewer for Republicans? I believe so. What the Republicans don't realize is that all of these proposals affect Republican voters too. They are like a circular firing squad.
Jerry Lujan
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Steinberg, Northwest side
Re: the March 10 letter "America must produce more oil."
A letter in the March 10 Star states that “Washington needs to wake up and smell the petroleum”; that environmentalists are a “cabal of radicals” engaged on a “quixotic pursuit of environmental purity” and that increasing our oil production is the best way to weaken Russia.
Not to dwell on how many months? years? it would take to significantly ramp up domestic production, nowhere in the letter is there any reference to global warming!
I guess that isn’t a problem, after all—just stick our heads in the sand and pretend there is no such thing!
That strategy worked out well in dealing with Covid when it surfaced two years ago, didn’t it?
David Steinberg
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Donovan-Popa, Southwest side
Dear President Biden,
Putin must be stopped. He will always threaten to use nuclear arms as leverage to get what he wants. The only thing to stop Putin from killing innocent people and destroying Ukraine, is OUR Military.
Putin has already started the Third World War. Of course, you and the USA will be blamed; so be it! We know that isn’t true! Are we going to wait to help them until there is no one left to help in Ukraine?
We can NOT stand by and watch this madman slaughter these incredibly brave people!!!
We have children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and dear friends whom we want to protect! Withholding our Military from fighting against Putin is putting our loved ones in even greater peril! The only thing Putin understands is bullets and bombs! The time is NOW!!!
We implore you to send in our Military into Ukraine and kick Putin’s butt back to Russia!!!
Mary Donovan-Popa
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Kelly lowering
our health costs
Families across Arizona have faced exorbitant costs for health care and medicines. And with the prices of other necessities like gas and groceries rising, the last thing we need are excessively high health care costs, too.
Sen. Mark Kelly has worked hard to lower health care costs for Arizonans. By voting for the American Rescue Plan, lower health insurance premiums have given more Arizonans access to affordable care. He is also fighting to bring down the cost of prescription drugs by giving Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices. Kelly supports a bill that would cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35 per month, ensuring that Arizonans with diabetes can afford the lifesaving medicine.
We need our representatives to stand up to Big Pharma and fight hard to bring down health care costs and make sure Arizona families can pay their bills and get the health care they need. Please join me in supporting Sen. Kelly to do just that.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Voting proposals
to hurt GOP, too
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is attributed to Bert Lance, former director of the Office of Management and Budget for President Jimmy Carter. That should apply to the electoral process in many states. However, several states are enacting laws and election officials to prevent voter fraud. These proposals, and in some cases already laws, affect how voting takes place, i.e., eliminating mail-in-voting, early voting, reducing the number of polling places, eliminating drop boxes, making voting only one day, proposals concerning the makeup of voting officials and the list goes on. Why? Because all of the changes reduce the number of voters. All of the proposals come from Republican lawmakers, most of which justify their proposals on "possible fraud," not actual verified fraud. Is it because more voters/votes are for Democrats and fewer for Republicans? I believe so. What the Republicans don't realize is that all of these proposals affect Republican voters, too. They are like a circular firing squad.
Jerry Lujan
SaddleBrooke
An Arizona sports
crossover fantasy
As I have watched in amazement this year's phenomenal progress related to our University of Arizona men's basketball team, a really cool vision comes into my mind.
Athletic Director Dave Heeke needs to introduce head men's basketball coach Tommy Lloyd to head football coach Jedd Fisch and present the idea of Oumar Ballo picking up and throwing around a pigskin.
As I see Oumar grab a rebound, kick out the ball, run down court like a locomotive, stop and dunk for two ... I fantasize about him lining up at tight end, running a precise pass route, jumping eleven feet in the air, catching the football and bowling over five defenders as he streaks for the end zone.
If you don't think this can happen then think about Antonio Gates, 16-year veteran of the NFL as a tight end who played only collegiate basketball for my alma mater, Kent State University.
There is plenty of Oumar to go around! Get talking Dave, Tommy, Jedd ... then go ask Oumar.
Bert Hanson
Northwest side
Militarily push
the invaders out
Dear President Biden,
Vladimir Putin must be stopped. He will always threaten to use nuclear arms as leverage to get what he wants. The only thing to stop Putin from killing innocent people and destroying Ukraine is our military.
Putin has already started the Third World War. Of course, you and the USA will be blamed; so be it! We know that isn’t true! Are we going to wait to help them until there is no one left to help in Ukraine?
We cannot stand by and watch this madman slaughter these incredibly brave people!
We have children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and dear friends whom we want to protect. Withholding our military from fighting against Putin is putting our loved ones in even greater peril. The only thing Putin understands is bullets and bombs. The time is now!
We implore you to send in our military into Ukraine and kick Putin back to Russia.
Mary Donovan-Popa
Southwest side
Additional oil
is no solution
Re: the March 10 letter "America must produce more oil."
This letter states that “Washington needs to wake up and smell the petroleum,” that environmentalists are a “cabal of radicals” engaged on a “quixotic pursuit of environmental purity” and that increasing our oil production is the best way to weaken Russia.
Not to dwell on how many months/years it would take to significantly ramp up domestic production, nowhere in the letter is there any reference to global warming.
I guess that isn’t a problem, after all — just stick our heads in the sand and pretend there is no such thing.
That strategy worked out well in dealing with COVID when it surfaced two years ago, didn’t it?
David Steinberg
Northwest side
A reminder that
Ducey is a kid
I was taken aback by Gov. Doug Ducey's comment, referring to rising gas prices, that "It's like nothing we've seen in our lifetime." At first I thought that perhaps the governor's lifetime has only been a couple of decades long, but of course he would probably not have been able to win the state's highest office as an adolescent. Then I realized that Ducey's "lifetime" is indeed a lot shorter than that of many of his constituents, myself included, for whom memories of the 1970s have not faded away, in spite of our comparatively protracted "lifetimes."
Steve Robinson
Oro Valley
Trump supporters
don't back Putin
Re: the March 16 letter "Trump 'patriots' cheer on Putin."
In response to accusations made by your letter writer, I am a proud Trump supporter and do not know of a single Trump supporter that is in favor of Vladimir Putin’s tyrannical actions. And in fact, neither is Donald Trump or Tucker Carlson. If you actually spent the time to watch Carlson’s program you would know that.
Susan Antonopulos
Sabino Canyon
- N.C. Arnold, Green Valley
I wonder if Russia invaded the U.S. would Americans come together and fight for our precious democracy like the brave Ukrainians or would some welcome Putin with flowers and open arms?
N.C. Arnold
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Debbi Golden-Davis, East side
I have two connections to Ukraine. Three of my grandparents were born there, and came to the USA as children. My father's mother lost most or all of her family in the 1940's when the Nazis brutally killed entire Jewish towns. I was only 3 when she died, so did not get any details.
In 1996, when I still lived in Atlanta, I volunteered with the Ukrainian Paralympic Team. I am very concerned about them and their families. Life is awful for most Ukrainians now, how much worse would it be for people who cannot walk long distances to escape?
Debbi Golden-Davis
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Donna Pierce, Northeast side
Today’s America has become divided and it is disheartening. To me, our two Party system has made this possible. We elect representatives based on our Party affiliation even if the representative is not worthy of the honor we are bestowing on them.
My vision would be for all of us to ask to change our voter registration to Other. That would tell these Politicians that they serve us, we do not serve them. They would actually have to tell us what they believe in and what’s they would do if elected instead of telling us how awful the “Other Party” is.
In Arizona, you can still vote in the Primaries if you don’t declare a Party affiliation. When you ask for a ballot, you can choose a Party at that time.
I never want to hear a President say they want “my people” to sit at attention like they do for another Authoritarian leader. We are not their people, they are our representatives.
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Craig Miller, Northwest side
I remember once Bill Maher said he would be a Republican if only they were. Once they were for a strong defense, not sucking up to tyrants. Fox News and Trump both have voiced pro Putin views, "he's a genius" , etc. Supposedly they wanted a balanced budget, which last happened under Clinton, and for a smaller government, which grew greatly under Trump and Bush. They passed tax breaks for the rich. Trickle down economics contributed to the deficit that benefited only the wealthy. And lastly a government which isn't involved in citizens' lives, if only that were so.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mike Wayne, Midtown
Trump enacted pro oil and natural gas drilling and exportation policies like in Keystone and ANWAR. The results were lower energy costs for Americans. Trump did not want America to be dependent on dictator countries like Russia for our fuel supplies and saw energy independence as a national security issue. He publically criticized Germany's Merkel for doing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline deal with Russia saying it could lead to energy blackmail and enrich Russia. Trump placed sanctions on that pipeline, which Biden lifted. There is already a Nord Stream 1 pipeline still carrying oil and gas from Russia to Europe! Trump condemned NATO countries for their decades of not spending pledged amounts of GDP on military defense. He was successful in getting NATO to increase their defense budgets. However, it is only now, after Russia invaded Ukraine that NATO has awakened to the need of spending more. Meanwhile, reports are that leaders in Saudi Arabia and UAE rejected phone calls from Biden pleading for higher oil production. Brilliant Joe!
Mike Wayne
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Norman Patten, Midtown
Just read where Senator Joe Manchin said, " I don't want to have to be standing in line waiting for a battery" regarding EVs. Joe, if life were only that difficult! Because you refuse to back any version of "build back better" many American's are standing in line for basic needs. The nation is waiting on much needed climate change legislation and, I just recently heard you will oppose the President's candidate for the FED on climate issues. Perhaps Joe, you should move to Russia. People there, who place themselves above all others, can become President. I mean, Putin's older than you and he needs a successor! I am not a radical liberal progressive. But, I know that one Senator can't place himself above the majority needs; yet you consistently do. Can I donate to your ticket to Russia?
Norman Patten
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Cohen-Joppa, Midtown
Re: the March 13 article "Is Tucson still a nuke target?"
Thanks to David Teter for reminding us that however unthinkable, we should not stop thinking about Tucson as a nuclear target. Left unsaid in Sunday’s page 1 feature story is that not only would nuclear war "destroy the nation's transportation, communication, power, water and manufacturing capabilities”, but it would overwhelm health care, public safety and emergency response as well. Just a handful of nuclear blasts could also create a "nuclear winter.” The radioactive ash from burning cities like Tucson will poison the rain and dim the sunshine for years, wreaking global havoc with food production.
But it is not hopeless. It's a long shot, but the majority of the nations on earth have already blazed the trail by adopting and ratifying the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Now it's our job in the nine nuclear nations to delegitimize these weapons and demand our governments join this Treaty.
Jack Cohen-Joppa
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steven Lesh, East side
However you feel about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, preserving good relations is essential in transitioning to electric vehicles. In addition to oil, Russia has the world’s:
• largest reserves of magnesium
• 2nd largest reserves of vanadium.
• 4th largest reserves of nickel
A thought experiment might help achieve a little more understanding if not sympathy for Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine. If you were an American president watching the steady buildup of Mexican military capability by an alliance of foreign powers, a buildup which you had cautioned for more than 30 years could not be tolerated, what would you do? Throw in the expenditure of more than $5 billion to ‘promote democracy’ and a violent coup d’etat that overthrew a democratically elected government and replaced it with one bent on reclaiming the territory it lost in the Mexican-American War and ridding itself of US citizens living in Canada.
Best not to mix geopolitics and business. There are no saints in either profession.
Steven Lesh
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Thankful Biden confronts Putin
The world is in a crisis now, but thank God we have President Joseph R. Biden in charge. He has assembled a global band of brothers in standing up to the Russian dictator President Vladimir Putin. One can only imagine the horror we would have now, if the apologist failed former President Donald Trump was in charge. Always remember that disgraced Trump called Putin a best friend and a genius. Trump’s weakness is now on full display for all.
David Keating
Northeast side
Electric cars and Russia
However you feel about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, preserving good relations is essential in transitioning to electric vehicles. In addition to oil, Russia has enormous reserves of magnesium, vanadium and nickel.
A thought experiment might help achieve a little more understanding, if not sympathy for Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine. If you were an American president watching the steady buildup of Mexican military capability by an alliance of foreign powers, a buildup which you had cautioned for more than 30 years could not be tolerated, what would you do? Throw in the expenditure of more than $5 billion to “promote democracy” and a violent coup d’etat that overthrew a democratically elected government and replaced it with one bent on reclaiming the territory it lost in the Mexican-American War and ridding itself of U.S. citizens living in Canada.
Best not to mix geopolitics and business. There are no saints in either profession.
Steven Lesh
East side
Nuclear war or nuclear ban?
Re: the March 13 article “Is Tucson still a nuke target?”
Thanks to David Teter for reminding us that however unthinkable, we should not stop thinking about Tucson as a nuclear target. Left unsaid in this article is that not only would nuclear war “destroy the nation’s transportation, communication, power, water and manufacturing capabilities,” but it would overwhelm health care, public safety and emergency response as well. Just a handful of nuclear blasts could also create a “nuclear winter.” The radioactive ash from burning cities like Tucson will poison the rain and dim the sunshine for years, wreaking global havoc with food production.
But it is not hopeless. It’s a long shot, but the majority of the nations on earth have already blazed the trail by adopting and ratifying the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Now it’s our job in the nine nuclear nations to delegitimize these weapons and demand our governments join this treaty.
Jack Cohen-Joppa
Midtown
Manchin should move to Russia
Just read where Sen. Joe Manchin said, “I don’t want to have to be standing in line waiting for a battery” regarding electric vehicles. Joe, if life were only that difficult! Because you refuse to back any version of Build Back Better, many Americans are standing in line for basic needs. The nation is waiting on much-needed climate change legislation, and I just recently heard you will oppose the president’s candidate for the Fed on climate issues. Perhaps, Joe, you should move to Russia. People there, who place themselves above all others, can become president. I mean, Vladimir Putin is older than you, and he needs a successor. I am not a radical liberal progressive. But, I know that one senator can’t place himself above the majority needs; yet you consistently do. Can I donate to your ticket to Russia?
Norman Patten
Midtown
Who will fight for freedom?I wonder if Russia invaded the U.S. would Americans come together and fight for our precious democracy like the brave Ukrainians, or would some welcome Vladimir Putin with flowers and open arms?
N.C. Arnold
Green Valley
Connections to Ukraine
I have two connections to Ukraine. Three of my grandparents were born there, and came to the USA as children. My father’s mother lost most or all of her family in the 1940s, when the Nazis brutally killed entire Jewish towns. I was only 3 when she died so did not get any details. In 1996, when I still lived in Atlanta, I volunteered with the Ukrainian Paralympic Team. I am very concerned about them and their families. Life is awful for most Ukrainians now; how much worse would it be for people who cannot walk long distances to escape?
Debbi Golden-Davis
East side
Trump was right on energy issues
Donald Trump enacted pro-oil and natural gas drilling and exportation policies like Keystone and ANWR. The results were lower energy costs for Americans. I believe Trump did not want America to be dependent on dictator countries like Russia for our fuel supplies and saw energy independence as a national security issue. He publicly criticized Germany’s Angela Merkel for doing the Nord Stream 2 pipeline deal with Russia, saying it could lead to energy blackmail and enrich Russia. Trump placed sanctions on that pipeline, which Biden lifted. There is already a Nord Stream 1 pipeline still carrying oil and gas from Russia to Europe! Trump condemned NATO countries for their decades of not spending pledged amounts of GDP on military defense. He was successful in getting NATO to increase their defense budgets. However, it is only now, after Russia invaded Ukraine that NATO has awakened to the need of spending more. Meanwhile, reports are that leaders in Saudi Arabia and UAE rejected phone calls from Biden pleading for higher oil production. Brilliant, Joe!
Mike Wayne
Midtown
GOP betrays its own values
I remember once Bill Maher said he would be a Republican if only they were. Once they were for a strong defense, not sucking up to tyrants. Fox News and Donald Trump both have voiced pro-Putin views, “he’s a genius,” etc. Supposedly they wanted a balanced budget, which last happened under Bill Clinton, and for a smaller government, which grew greatly under Trump and George W. Bush. They passed tax breaks for the rich. I think trickle-down economics contributed to the deficit that benefited only the wealthy. And lastly a government that isn’t involved in citizens’ lives, if only that were so.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
Disheartening division in US
Today’s America has become divided and it is disheartening. To me, our two-party system has made this possible. We elect representatives based on our party affiliation even if the representative is not worthy of the honor we are bestowing on them. My vision would be for all of us to ask to change our voter registration to “other.” That would tell these politicians that they serve us, we do not serve them. They would actually have to tell us what they believe in and what they would do if elected instead of telling us how awful the “other party” is.
In Arizona, you can still vote in the primaries if you don’t declare a party affiliation. When you ask for a ballot, you can choose a party at that time.
I never want to hear a president say they want “my people” to sit at attention like they do for another authoritarian leader. We are not their people, they are our representatives.
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
More anti-wolf legislation in AZ
The Arizona House passed HB 2181 prohibiting state authorities from stopping anyone from killing a wolf who feels “threatened” by one. It’s a confusing bill, given that Mexican gray wolf numbers were decimated for decades, resulting in current federal protections under the Endangered Species Act.
This legislation is anti-wolf, similar to other state bills that have been in direct conflict with the Endangered Species Act and ignore the science of extensive wolf research, which indicates wolves are sentient, socially oriented animals that thrive as a family unit. Killing an alpha wolf rips apart the cohesion of a family and destroys its continuity.
Wolves successfully balance ecosystems by preventing overgrazing of ungulates through predation. Wolves have been baited, trapped, poisoned, tortured, gassed, shot and killed since European settlers arrived.
For decades our government set up bounties and almost exterminated wolves. Arizona legislators cause confusion and sanction wolf killings when they support anti-wolf bills. Tell your legislators to protect Arizona wolves.
Linda Dugan
Midtown
- Judy J Gillies, Oro Valley
A year ago, Arizonans sent Joe Biden and Sen. Mark Kelly to Washington with a clear mandate to fix the economy, which had been wracked by the coronavirus pandemic. They got to work right away and passed the American Rescue Plan, and a year later we are still seeing the benefits. Thanks to Senator Kelly and President Biden's leadership, the economy has added more than 7 million jobs nationwide, $8.5 billion in relief checks went out to 3.2 million Arizonans, and 1.5 million Arizona children were helped by the Child Tax Credit, not to mention the businesses who were able to keep their doors open and their lights on. Recovering from the pandemic has not been easy and we are not out of the woods yet but it is worth looking back at how far we've come. I'm grateful to have leaders like Sen. Kelly and President Biden in Arizona's corner and I know there are brighter days ahead.
Judy J Gillies
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- May Hines, Midtown
To all the girl's sports, coaches, players, and teams. It has been 50 years since Title IX was passed. Thank you Title IX! You have given girls the opportunity for scholarships to compete on a higher level, and to become known to sports fans. Happy 50TH Title IX.
May Hines
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Buus, East side
Baseball is the national game. Or so I had thought. I also assumed that it would constitute a unifying social adhesive for these fractionated, parlous times. Wrong again. It now appears as though it will merely be another truncated series of selfish spats, egos on display for purely private needs.
Without continuity, there are no comparisons. Without complete seasons, statistics mean nothing. I suppose I should have seen this coming with the advent of designated hitters and game-shortening rules.
The owners and the players have forgotten the magical beauty of a five-year-old’s first trip downtown to the emerald cavern of his team’s stadium…. forgotten the joy of impersonating Mickey Mantle on the sandlots of our adolescence.
Everything is sullied with trivial disagreements and perverse pride. Piece by cork-filled piece, the sport is falling apart.
So, who is the designated shitter now?
Rise up, my fellow fans, and communicate your deep disappointments, or lose this beautiful game forever.
David Buus
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Graef, SaddleBrooke
While Putin’s hordes commit genocide on the ground and from the air, the “free world” stands by, justifying its moral paralysis by asserting Ukraine is not part of NATO, and there’s too great a “risk” of provoking Putin into a nuclear war. True, that’s a risk, but the consequences of not acting, like implementing a “no fly” zone, are equally dire, like encouraging expanded Putin adventurism, and Chinese aggression toward Taiwan. We’ve united the world in “condemning” Putin; we’ve enacted serious “sanctions” on Russia; we’re sending money and weapons; but these “actions” haven’t stopped the carnage. Mexico is not a NATO member. Would we stand by if Russia attacked Mexico? Israel is not a NATO member. Would we stand by if Russia attacked Israel, even at the risk of a nuclear conflict? Not as chance. Ukraine is no different.
Jack Graef
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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