Tucson speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Feb. 3, 2023
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce M. Prior, West side
Regarding the Jan. 18th Bloomberg News piece titled "Biden nears now-or-never point on climate", the Biden administration's energy policy with it's "raft of regulations" assures that the future price of fuels and electricity will only rise along with their cost of production. The cost of all gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, LNG, propane, butane, asphalt (roads), rubber (tires), plastics and synthetic fabrics must rise since the administration thinks we use too much if these items. This administration has no incentive to reduce fuel costs to 2019 levels since their primary goal is to force humans to rely less on fossil fuels. Either through high pricing or choked supply, diminished fuel availability will result in diminished prosperity for the great majority of humans. People striving for a prosperous future which includes abundant, life saving fossil fuels are today's new antiauthoritarians. Do not label us as anything other than that.
Bruce M. Prior
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Calaway, Northeast side
When learning to drive, my parents repeatedly cautioned me on how to react if pulled over by police: pull off the road, turn off ignition, keep hands in sight on top of steering wheel, sit still and roll down window. Keep quiet, stay seated and follow officer’s orders.
I’ve since expanded on that advice: do not fidget around trying to find your license in the glove compartment, and don’t act like Richard Kimble in that old Fugitive movie by hopping out and running. Turn on interior light if it’s dark outside. Stay seated unless the officer asks you to leave your car.
While I don’t condone the deadly beating officers gave motorist Tyrone Nichols, I recognize that police are sometimes killed at traffic stops. They thus treat a traffic stop as a potential danger. Their lives are in danger every workday. They have spouses and kids, too.
Do parents no longer imbue their kids with common-sense, lifesaving advise?
Jack Calaway
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jean Getek, Foothills
To the letter writer who wrote the letter "Border Control" on January 30th, the only part of his letter that made sense was "Comprehensive Immigration Policy which he thinks is a joke. People crossing the border under Title 42 didn't work nor did Trump's folly, the wall. Simply "halting entry into the United States" is not a simple answer nor a solution. Why are Republicans not willing to work on a "comprehensive immigration policy"? That is the true answer here.
Jean Getek
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bill Blaine, Marana
Re: the jan. 29 article "Fear of mass shootings grips my generation."
I felt sorry for Paige Masten and her generation that is in fear of being caught up in a mass shooting. Strangely, I also read a long list of complaints about litter on road on the Nextdoor Neighbor site. How could these two things be connected? In each case the theme is what is the government going to do to “fix” these things. We have begat a generation of people who think government is responsible for all things. And we’ve lost generations who believe in personal responsibility. Ethical behavior has to be taught in places like First Tee of Big Brother and Sister organizations. The goodness of religion has been banned and replaced with the theology of self. We are spending $Trillions trying to change nature while we rot from within and spend nothing to support personal responsibility and the satisfaction that accrues from it. “Heal thyself”
Bill Blaine
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
The new anti-authoritarians
Re: the Jan. 18 article “Biden nears now-or-never point on climate.”
The Biden administration’s energy policy with its “raft of regulations” assures that the future price of fuels and electricity will only rise along with their cost of production. The cost of all gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, LNG, propane, butane, asphalt (roads), rubber (tires), plastics and synthetic fabrics must rise since the administration thinks we use too much of these items. This administration has no incentive to reduce fuel costs to 2019 levels since their primary goal is to force humans to rely less on fossil fuels. Either through high pricing or choked supply, diminished fuel availability will result in diminished prosperity for the great majority of humans. People striving for a prosperous future which includes abundant, life-saving fossil fuels are today’s new anti-authoritarians. Do not label us as anything other than that.
Bruce M. Prior
West side
Public records laws
Re: the Jan. 28 article “New records show Cyber Ninjas’ ties to Trump during ‘audit’.”
If the rules the Arizona GOP adopted, exempting legislators from public records laws, were in effect when the Cyber Ninjas were performing their audit, we taxpayers would never have known about all the behind-the-scenes shenanigans that were going on between the Cyber Ninjas and Trump.
The Senate authorized $150,000 for the audit, which ended up costing many times that much, only to conclude that our votes were, in fact, counted. Joe Biden won.
If we do not stop this type of behavior before it becomes law, we will no longer have any say in our government. We may not all agree on issues, but I think we all agree it is our right to know what our elected officials are doing to earn our votes!
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
Not the Bill Walton show
Re: the Jan. 27 letter “Bill Walton, an insightful announcer.”
Yes, all the items you speak of regarding Walton’s past are true. However, the game today is not about him, but about the very talented young men who play basketball for the U of A. They should be championed, not his love of the Grateful Dead, nor his tie-dyed tee shirt nor the teepee in his backyard. Political issue? Not sure what political issue he adds to the game. It is a Pac-12 basketball game, not the “Bill Walton Show.”
Linda Scheffer
East side
EV’s and fuel tax for roads
Purchasing an Electric Vehicles (EV) will impact our roads without a “Fuel Tax” replacement with state and federal depleting funds. Who will pay for our future roads as EV defund the “Fuel Tax”?
In Arizona, consumers pay at the pump in total taxes for federal and state of 37.4 cents for gasoline and 51.4 cents for diesel as the road tax per gallon that is built into the price of fuel. That money collected goes to fund the “Highway Users Revenue Fund (HURF)” that supports road infrastructure that includes our neighborhood streets. EVs don’t fuel up, so EV drivers don’t contribute in that way.
An Arizona law would require that home, commercial, city, county and state charging stations install electric meters by Arizona power companies to collect the fee rate while hooking up to the charging stations, then send collected funds to state and federal HURF authorities.
People that cannot afford a EV should not subsidize EV vehicle owners that harm the deprived workers.
Jesse Lugo
South side
Dichotomy
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Fear of mass shootings grips my generation.”
I felt sorry for Paige Masten and her generation that is in fear of being caught up in a mass shooting. Strangely, I also read a long list of complaints about litter on roads on the Nextdoor Neighbor site. How could these two things be connected? In each case the theme is what is the government going to do to “fix” these things. We have begat a generation of people who think government is responsible for all things. And we’ve lost generations who believe in personal responsibility. Ethical behavior has to be taught in places like First Tee of Big Brother and Sister organizations. The goodness of religion has been banned and replaced with the theology of self. We are spending trillions trying to change nature while we rot from within and spend nothing to support personal responsibility and the satisfaction that accrues from it. “Heal thyself.”
Bill Blaine
Marana
Homelessness and homeowners
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Park epicenter of Tucson’s homelessness conundrum.”
The argument by Santa Rita Park’s homeless suit cites the Eighth Amendment’s “cruel and unusual punishment” to justify not removing the population that inhabits that public park. The lives of the residents who pay taxes and legally live around that park are the ones experiencing cruel and unusual circumstances. Providing alternative shelter for the homeless is not legally required. The homeless do not maintain, own or pay taxes on that land. Public parks use curfews to prevent the mischief that usually occurs after 10 p.m. The neighborhood deserves this protection. When ample warnings have been given that removal is imminent, though difficult, our spaces and the caretaking of them should be respected. Since it is not a proper, legal, or a desirable permanent living arrangement to begin with, they are not entitled to remain indefinitely. They chose Tucson to live in and it sounds like actual Tucsonans are doing what they can to help and have endured the chaos and danger enough in that location.
Christie Cummins
Midtown
Border control
Re: the Jan. 30 letter “Border control.”
The only part of this letter that made sense was “Comprehensive Immigration Policy” which the letter writer thinks is a joke. People crossing the border under Title 42 didn’t work nor did Trump’s folly, the wall. Simply “halting entry into the United States” is not a simple answer nor a solution. Why are Republicans not willing to work on a comprehensive immigration policy? That is the true answer here.
Jean Getek
Foothills
Common sense saves lives
When learning to drive, my parents repeatedly cautioned me on how to react if pulled over by police: pull off the road, turn off ignition, keep hands in sight on top of steering wheel, sit still and roll down window. Keep quiet, stay seated and follow the officer’s orders.
I’ve since expanded on that advice: do not fidget around trying to find your license in the glove compartment, and don’t act like Richard Kimble in that old “Fugitive” movie by hopping out and running. Turn on interior light if it’s dark outside. Stay seated unless the officer asks you to leave your car.
While I don’t condone the deadly beating officers gave motorist Tyrone Nichols, I recognize that police are sometimes killed at traffic stops. They thus treat a traffic stop as a potential danger. Their lives are in danger every workday. They have spouses and kids, too.
Do parents no longer imbue their kids with common-sense, life-saving advise?
Jack Calaway
Northeast side
- Jamar Ellis, Sierra Vista
In the aftermath of these newest revelations concerning policing in the United States, it is important that we—the collective public—be encouraged to examine all of the variable factors that contribute to these incidents. Of course, no two circumstances are exactly alike, and therefore must always be examined with that in mind. For a moment, though, we should perhaps give some considerations towards culture and climate.
Memphis has long been at the top of many Most Dangerous U.S. Cities lists. What were the community conditions that constituted the need for their SCORPION unit? With recruitment being a paramount concern in major cities throughout the country, we have some obvious cause and effect scenarios taking place contemporaneously. Are we recruiting, hiring, and retaining the best people? As more facts become available for widespread consumption in cases across the country, I hope we take an honest look at these issues, taking serious measures towards positive and effective practical change.
Jamar Ellis
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Daniel McDonnell, Foothills
Over one hundred and fifty people die every day from gun violence. 96 percent of the mass murderers are men, and most have had issues with domestic violence or have posted something disturbing on social media. I think most would agree with the statement that "some people should not own or have access to a gun."
What can we as a nation do to prevent continued murder? First I believe that those who sell guns need to be held accountable. Background checks have to be done thoroughly and with the knowledge that if the sales are done improperly stiff penalties and jail time would be a consequence. Secondly, no sales should be made to anyone under the age of 25. Most of those perpetrating gun violence are men 18-25. Thirdly, stop the sales of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
Unless we are deadly serious about stopping gun violence it won't stop. It appears if we do nothing it will get worse.
Daniel McDonnell
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
It should be safer to walk
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Drugs a factor in Tucson pedestrian deaths.”
I’m afraid Tim Steller has fallen into the familiar trap of blaming pedestrians for their own deaths. This may not be a popular opinion, but I believe using drugs should not be a death sentence. It should be really hard to get killed by a car. Because all of us — children, drunks, drug-users, the clumsy, the blind, the elderly — might at some point find ourselves in the middle of a street. Streets in Tucson are unreasonably dangerous. Period.
Rachel Wilson
Downtown
Education
Tom Horne is wielding his new power. Not for the benefit of our state’s students, but to conform to his personal prejudices: He this week canceled scheduled presentations re: diversity at a statewide teachers’ conference.
Some may recall when Mr. Horne canceled the Mexican American Studies program at Tucson High School — a program that kept Tucson’s Mexican-American students in school and carried them through to graduation from high school. Then he ordered the removal of many books from school libraries, books that he personally found offensive.
Mr. Horne is a man to constrain. Newly elected as Arizona superintendent of education, he endangers Arizona public-school students.
Patricia H Wendel
Midtown
Culture and climate: Policing in America
In the aftermath of these newest revelations concerning policing in the United States, it is important that we — the collective public — be encouraged to examine all of the variable factors that contribute to these incidents. Of course, no two circumstances are exactly alike, and therefore must always be examined with that in mind. For a moment, though, we should perhaps give some consideration to culture and climate.
Memphis has long been at the top of many Most Dangerous U.S. Cities lists. What were the community conditions that constituted the need for their SCORPION unit? With recruitment being a paramount concern in major cities throughout the country, we have some obvious cause-and-effect scenarios taking place contemporaneously. Are we recruiting, hiring, and retaining the best people? As more facts become available for widespread consumption in cases across the country, I hope we take an honest look at these issues, taking serious measures toward positive and effective practical change.
Jamar Ellis
Sierra Vista
Educational leadership
My appreciation to the University of Arizona and the College of Education’s, Garrison Tsinajinie, Sunnggye Hong and Stephanie MacFarland for their development of project COMPASSS.
This project involves 30 Special Education Master’s degree students, who are preparing to help K-12 children with visual impairment, severe multiple disabilities and orientation and mobility challenges. The reality is that students with sensory disabilities need academic support, and also need quality of life support as well. Arizona has teacher staffing shortages with schools filling these gaps with lesser-qualified instructors. The university is committed to helping to increase teacher effectiveness given the constraints of teacher shortages by increasing the competency and capability of future special education teachers. This will have a positive impact on sensory-challenged students.
COMPASSS is a giant step in the right direction, led by caring and committed instructional staff. How lucky we are to have these leaders at all levels of education right here in Tucson! Teachers are important, they help our children to be self-reliant.
Richard Harper
Northeast side
When freedom is anything but
Does anyone see the hypocrisy that the “Defending Freedom” law firm, based in Scottsdale, is suing to prevent a woman’s right to a safe, legal abortion using a proven medication? You can’t make this stuff up. Whose freedom is most at stake here?
The abortion pill is safe and effective. It enables a woman to make the most difficult decision of her life in consultation with her doctor and in the privacy of her home. The only alternative is surgical abortion, which is invasive, adds risk, and is unavailable to many women. This is not the business of the church or the government.
“Defending Freedom” is anything but.
Laurie Cantillo
Northeast side
Walton is the best
I find it sad that some would choose to demean Bill Walton. I consider him by far the best commentator in basketball. His comments, honesty and stories are a great addition to the game. I am always especially pleased when he is on the announcing team. If you pay attention, you always learn something from Bill both about the game and life in general. Plus he loves Tucson and the desert! He is not the play-by-play guy, he is the color commentator, and that is his job. And nobody does the “color” better than Walton. He is simply fantastic!
Robert Stanelle
Green Valley
Mass shootings again and again
Over 150 people die every day from gun violence. Approximately 96% of the mass murderers are men, and most have had issues with domestic violence or have posted something disturbing on social media. I think most would agree with the statement that “some people should not own or have access to a gun.”
What can we as a nation do to prevent continued murder? First, I believe that those who sell guns need to be held accountable. Background checks have to be done thoroughly and with the knowledge that if the sales are done improperly stiff penalties and jail time would be a consequence. Secondly, no sales should be made to anyone under the age of 25. Most of those perpetrating gun violence are men 18-25. Thirdly, stop the sales of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
Unless we are deadly serious about stopping gun violence, it won’t stop. It appears if we do nothing it will get worse.
Daniel McDonnell
Foothills
Education leader cancels learning
Where did this dinosaur come from? Tom Horne has dissolved the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office within the Arizona Department of Education. His war on teaching diversity, equity and social-emotional learning is the height of lunacy. The skills taught in those subjects are critical to learning. Tom, are you listening? No one teaches critical race theory in K-12.
Richard Govern, retired high school science teacher
Foothills
Better use of time
Re: the Jan. 19 article “Panel OKs bill to restrict student pronouns in schools.”
For goodness sake! Can’t the Legislature come up with something more worthwhile and weighty to spend their precious time on than trying to control how students are addressed in school? Writing as both a retired teacher and a member of the LGBTQ community, I find this proposed bill appalling. Please, give school administrators, teachers, and students credit for dealing with these challenges. We didn’t elect our legislators to micromanage the schools. That’s why we have school boards. Legislators, if you want to show your support for Arizona’s students, lift the spending cap on education and vote to fund our schools and pay our teachers at a level commensurate with their importance! That’s what you can do even as you leave school management to the experts. Thank you.
Aston Bloom
East side
What everyone should pay
Re: the Jan 26 article “Tucson Water wants to hear from local community.”
It’s no secret Tucson has a water issue. It’s an issue that’s been coming down the road for decades, and each administration has avoided it like the plague. Well, the plague has arrived, now what? Like COVID, the city has waited until something had to be done. The city now wants everyone to conserve water, while they issue home-building permits by the thousands to developers. They can’t have it both ways.
I happen to live in the county and now must pay extra for my water, because Tucson needs more money. Pumping uphill costs more they say, but many county residents live along the washes. According to Tucson Water’s theory, I should have to pay more for electricity because I’m further from the generation point. It doesn’t work that way. All customers pay the same rate. Maybe Pima County Wastewater should increase the rates of city customers to make up the difference.
James Kelly
Foothills
- Sarah Bihms, Northwest side
Dear Editor,
The integrity of our democracy is under threat due to the influence of big money in politics, barriers to voting, and gerrymandered congressional districts. Despite broad support for pro-voter measures, Senate Republicans have repeatedly blocked legislation to address these issues. As a result, faith in our election system is plummeting and billionaires are using their money to drown out the voices of everyday Americans.
President Biden must use his executive power to combat corruption, increase transparency, and advance voting rights. The 2022 political cycle was the most expensive midterm election on record, with secret money groups spending big to influence lawmakers. We must also demand that our elected officials take action to restore the promise of American democracy.
Sincerely, Sarah Bihms
Sarah Bihms
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- J. Lane Randolph, East side
Hey Republicans, Stop the stupid. It makes you look bad. Plus, you’re acting like privileged and entitled teenagers.
J. Lane Randolph
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Maggie Kraft, North side
Change is not always easy, but once people understand how change can positively impact their health and finances, it is much easier. Clean energy projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Acts provide opportunities to change in a positive direction. Congress has made available billions of dollars to fight climate change and help consumers make the transition to clean energy. Tax credits and rebates are available to incentivize Americans to purchase electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and electrify their homes. As clean power production from solar, wind and other clean sources increase, the cost of electricity will decrease. So, if you need to replace your car or upgrade your appliances, now is the time to capitalize on these financial incentives. This is the kind of change we can all get behind – improved health, finances and a greener future.
Maggie Kraft
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Binky Luckhurst Woodward, Foothills
When you hear Tyre Nichols call out to his mother as he was being murdered by five policemen in Memphis it should have sounded a terrible noise to every parent in this country. I’m a mother of an adult son, no matter how painful and terribly hard it is to watch and listen to that horrific tape I felt a responsibility. I had no intention of not only watching, certainly not listening, and then I did. I didn’t have the heart to watch the whole tape, I saw enough to convince me that what I was watching was beyond my understanding. Prayers to his family and to every parent that lost a child to this brutality.
Binky Luckhurst Woodward
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Alexander, Marana
In US schools, precious classroom time is spent with children reciting words they don’t fully comprehend. A young child is unlikely to understand symbolic allegiance to a flag. Mouthing that our country is “indivisible” certainly doesn’t make it so; we are a divided people. “Liberty and justice for all” is not within the capabilities of children to effect. Perhaps the Pledge of Allegiance should be revised to be more practical, meaningful, and inclusive.
If our pledge included, and we frequently pledged from a young age, to be kind and thoughtful, how would that change us? If the pledge included to be respectful and to listen attentively, would meetings be less contentious and more productive? If our pledge included a desire to care for the earth, would we be less inclined toward selfishness with how we use the planet’s resources? If we pledged to work towards peace, would individuals choose goodwill over violence?
Susan Alexander
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School, Foothills
Across the country, state legislatures restrict what students like us can learn. Lawmakers do not want tough topics, like LGBTQ issues, racism, and sex taught in schools. Lawmakers ban books to appease a political base or because parents are afraid to have conversations. Arizona's HB 2495 law went into effect last September and makes it difficult for sex ed to be taught, or for books with "sexually explicit material" to be checked out without parental consent. Let’s face it: While it may be difficult, we must learn about these things. And we should not be prevented from learning them because politicians are afraid.
Middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Changing for the better
Change is not always easy, but once people understand how change can positively impact their health and finances, it is much easier. Clean energy projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Acts provide opportunities to change in a positive direction. Congress has made available billions of dollars to fight climate change and help consumers make the transition to clean energy. Tax credits and rebates are available to incentivize Americans to purchase electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and electrify their homes. As clean power production from solar, wind and other clean sources increase, the cost of electricity will decrease. So, if you need to replace your car or upgrade your appliances, now is the time to capitalize on these financial incentives. This is the kind of change we can all get behind — improved health, finances and a greener future.
Maggie Kraft
North side
Punishing fan loyalty
Re: the Jan. 29 article “UA ups ticket prices for 2023-24.”
The decision by U of A to increase ticket prices is essentially a punishment to fan loyalty.
I am a longtime U of A athletics fan, attending numerous athletic events on campus. Last season I attended four U of A football games (top ranked USC was one of those games). All of the games had very low attendance, except for the ASU game, which was a sellout. The only sport on campus that has consistently high attendance is men’s basketball. Instead of raising ticket prices for all sports, and punishing fan loyalty, the U of A should first concentrate on improving attendance for all sports. Increasing ticket prices is a short-sighted and an ineffective solution to the U of A Athletic Department’s economic difficulties, and I believe it will backfire on them.
Dan Egan
East side
Helena Pueyo women’s basketball
Re: the Jan. 30 article “Cougs too much for Cats.”
I was glad to see the Star recognize Helena Pueyo as the “Lockdown Defender” in the midseason report for the U of A women’s basketball team. Her play and stats on defense definitely stand out. I was very surprised that there was no mention of her reaching the 200 career assist mark which she was recognized for before the Washington game on Friday. To play so well on both ends of the floor is even more impressive. Well done, Helena y ¡Sí, se Pueyo!
Sue Clark
Foothills
Revise the Pledge of Allegiance
Re: the Jan. 14 article “Take the Pledge of Allegiance seriously.”
In U.S. schools, precious classroom time is spent with children reciting words they don’t fully comprehend. A young child is unlikely to understand symbolic allegiance to a flag. Mouthing that our country is “indivisible” certainly doesn’t make it so; we are a divided people. “Liberty and justice for all” is not within the capabilities of children to effect. Perhaps the Pledge of Allegiance should be revised to be more practical, meaningful, and inclusive.
If our pledge included, and we frequently pledged from a young age, to be kind and thoughtful, how would that change us? If the pledge included to be respectful and to listen attentively, would meetings be less contentious and more productive? If our pledge included a desire to care for the earth, would we be less inclined toward selfishness with how we use the planet’s resources? If we pledged to work towards peace, would individuals choose goodwill over violence?
Susan Alexander
Marana
National Anthem
I’m a veteran and a longtime Arizona basketball season ticket holder. Part of my enjoyment comes from hearing the wonderful U of A band play the National Anthem. On rare occasions, talented vocalists have taken on the difficult song and I am thrilled with every one. Last week the National Anthem was attempted by a young man with an electric guitar. I am not an expert on music, but I know what I like and don’t like. The young man began playing and it was soon obvious that either his talents or the equipment he was using was not up to the excellence I am used to. The guitar squeaked and squawked and delivered a message that just left me wondering, what if? As an added attraction the young man soon placed the guitar behind his head and continued. Unfortunately, this attempt fell just as flat as the rest. Upon ending people around me had glazed looks on their faces. So sad.
Phil Reinecker
East side
Stop the stupid
Hey, Republicans, stop the stupid. It makes you look bad. Plus, you’re acting like privileged and entitled teenagers.
J. Lane Randolph
East side
My son
When you hear Tyre Nichols call out to his mother as he was being murdered by five policemen in Memphis it should have sounded a terrible noise to every parent in this country. I’m a mother of an adult son, no matter how painful and terribly hard it is to watch and listen to that horrific tape I felt a responsibility. I had no intention of not only watching, certainly not listening, and then I did. I didn’t have the heart to watch the whole tape, I saw enough to convince me that what I was watching was beyond my understanding. Prayers to his family and to every parent that lost a child to this brutality.
Binky Luckhurst
Woodward
Foothills
Don’t restrict what we can learn
Across the country, state legislatures restrict what students like us can learn. Lawmakers do not want tough topics, like LGBTQ issues, racism, and sex taught in schools. Lawmakers ban books to appease a political base or because parents are afraid to have conversations. Arizona’s HB 2495 law went into effect last September and makes it difficult for sex ed to be taught, or for books with “sexually explicit material” to be checked out without parental consent. Let’s face it: While it may be difficult, we must learn about these things. And we should not be prevented from learning them because politicians are afraid.
Six middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School
Foothills
New hope
Re: the Jan. 12 article “Water woes halt some projects.”
The Arizona Department of Water Resources refusing construction permits to new developments relying solely on groundwater offers new hope to stabilize our potable water availability. This article reports that state departments are finally taking action to address uncontrolled growth and depletion of water, energy and natural resources for existing Arizonans.
One hundred years ago, the federal government created federal agencies to dam rivers and streams to support plans for irrigation districts throughout the Southwest and Southern California. Their goal was to encourage people, primarily farmers and ranchers in the East and Midwest to move to the Southwest. Well, it worked! My grandparents moved to the Valley from Iowa and Pennsylvania in the 1920’s to farm with great deals for farmland and the promise of water on demand.
I’m well aware of the economical and quality of life arguments used to encourage people to move here. However, I believe our primary water resource problem is unrestricted growth.
Cal Rooker
Northwest side
Helping the homeless?
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Park epicenter of Tucson’s homelessness conundrum.”
This article offered an insightful and informative look into Tucson’s handling of homeless individuals. One of the Homelessness Task Force’s objectives stated, “continuing to seek housing for unsheltered Tucsonans.” I was told by a couple of homeless people at different locations that they came from other states to Phoenix and were told Tucson was easier and more likely to put up with them. To me, they are not Tucsonans or contributing members of our community, but opportunists.
Judging from the number of shopping carts of belongings pictured with the article and the ones I see abandoned in my own neighborhood, I would say that our businesses are taking a big hit on taking care of the homeless. They leave trash in their wake even when trash cans are available, pollute our washes and areas around the bike trail and do not respect property. Not true Tusconans.
Christie Cummins
Midtown
- Charles Larson, Green Valley
Do you worry that circuses are in danger of disappearing, what with so many clowns (over 200 nee Republican) in the House of Representatives, and countless local ones in state legislatures providing "free" entertainment ? Of course, their costumes aren't as colorful, nor their sense of self as productive, but they're just as comical to see and hear. Trouble is, it's such sick humor, one could almost feel sorry for them, and one should worry for human civilization. They probably think of themselves as humans, tho' they give monkeys, ostriches, snakes, and alligators competition. Inevitably, it will be cheaper if we create another zoo for them, feed them nuts and chocolate, clothe them in diapers (reflective of their mental age and to keep to keep their play areas clean), and surround them with walls of mirrors. They make one wonder what kind of divinity we credit the world and man to.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Reynolds, East side
While Fox News and its viewers have a five-alarm meltdown over a comment made by a mid-level bureaucrat about gas stoves during an interview, Republicans in the House drafted an actual, real live bill, House Resolution 25, for a national sales tax of 30%. (effective)
This tax, assuming an average price of $2800, will add $840 to the purchase price of a new gas stove that republicans suddenly hold so sacred.
It also adds $12,331.50 to the average price of a new truck.
Don’t forget the extra $24.98 for 25 gallons at $3.33 to fill that truck up.
Oh, and don’t forget a place to put it all. That is, if you can afford the extra $128,610 on top of the average price of a house.
“Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.”
David Reynolds
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Robert McNeil, Midtown
When I read a Facebook comment saying that Nancy Pelosi was responsible for the insurrection on January 6th I thought this is a bad joke. Then Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene posted the same thing. I read in the paper that Paul Gosar is pushing the same nonsense.
In case you didn't know Trump knew he would lose the election and he had several plans to steal it back. Part of it was to whip his cult members into a frenzy and give them license to misbehaves.
These bald-face lies really bother me. A congressman that ignores facts to suck up to Trump should be somehow held accountable. Maybe we need some way to publicly shame them, like having them wear a dunce cap that scolds them and says" Shame" every minute. George Santos should wear one too.
Robert McNeil
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Eileen Dudley, Midtown
People here in the US love guns. The number of guns in the US exceeds the population. So let 's stop fighting this voracious appetite for guns. Let people buy guns, keep their guns, treasure their guns, make printed guns, pay dues to lobby for guns, let their children play with guns, because after all it says that we have second amendment rights. However, there is something else we can and should do about the horrific slaughter that happens every day in this country. This solution will not violate any gun owner's second amendment rights: Outlaw the manufacture of ammunition and impose severe penalties on those who make it or sell the components of it. If angry people want to murder others, they will have to beat their victims to death with their gun, which would take a different mind set than standing at a distance and mowing them down by the dozens in a hail of bullets.
Eileen Dudley
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bill Perry, Ajo
Editor,
As our world population passes through eight billion on its way to nine or ten, it’s obvious that humans are a metastasizing cancer on this planet. We’re displacing other species at record rates, polluting the seas, cutting and burning remaining forests, using up irreplaceable mineral resources, embracing nuclear weapons and even disrupting the climate. Do we care? Of course not, but history will remember us as an amazingly stupid and selfish species.
Bill Perry
Ajo
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Loyal M Johnson Jr, Oro Valley
Biden has just, after two years of ignoring and deflecting, imposed several new rules regarding immigration into the United States. He also indicated that the border problems will not be solved until there is a comprehensive immigration policy, now held up by Republican obstinance. Who is he kidding. Until our government decides to halt entry into the United States to anyone not following the existing immigration laws, the illegals, with support from the cartels, will continue to pour into our nation because the word is out, get across the border and they will support and take care of you, no questions asked. This nation cannot survive as the nation we know if we do not control entry into the nation. No other country in the world has the open border policy that we currently have and I wonder why.
Loyal M Johnson Jr
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Border control
President Biden has just, after two years of ignoring and deflecting, imposed several new rules regarding immigration into the United States. He also indicated that the border problems will not be solved until there is a comprehensive immigration policy, now held up by Republican obstinance. Who is he kidding? Until our government decides to halt entry into the United States to anyone not following the existing immigration laws, the undocumented, with support from the cartels, will continue to pour into our nation because the word is out, get across the border and they will support and take care of you, no questions asked. This nation cannot survive as the nation we know if we do not control entry into the nation. No other country in the world has the open border policy that we currently have — and I wonder why.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Protecting our wildlife
Re: the Jan. 8 article “Threat to urban bobcats.”
An “urban” bobcat was killed by a local resident because, as he said, “It was threatening his pets.” Apparently, it’s OK to kill an “urban” bobcat for that reason, although it is illegal not to report the action to the Arizona Game and Fish Department. I guess the paperwork they collect and file is more important than the animal’s life. First of all, this was an innocent animal, doing what bobcats do. The bobcat didn’t really know that it was “urban.” Please tell me why it was not illegal to kill this bobcat. Don’t the owners of pets, especially in Arizona where many forms of wildlife are labeled as threats to pets (in spite of the fact that those animals are just doing exactly what they were created to do), have the responsibility to protect those pets in ways that would be considered to be more humane towards the wildlife?
Sue Thompson
SaddleBrooke
Humans as cancer
Editor,
As our world population passes through eight billion on its way to nine or 10, it’s obvious that humans are a metastasizing cancer on this planet. We’re displacing other species at record rates, polluting the seas, cutting and burning remaining forests, using up irreplaceable mineral resources, embracing nuclear weapons and even disrupting the climate. Do we care? Of course not, but history will remember us as an amazingly stupid and selfish species.
Bill Perry
Ajo
Everyone wants to get into the act
Do you worry that circuses are in danger of disappearing, what with so many clowns (over 200 Republicans) in the House of Representatives, and countless local ones in state legislatures providing “free” entertainment? Of course, their costumes aren’t as colorful, nor their sense of self as productive, but they’re just as comical to see and hear. Trouble is, it’s such sick humor, one could almost feel sorry for them, and one should worry for human civilization. They probably think of themselves as humans, tho’ they give monkeys, ostriches, snakes, and alligators competition. Inevitably, it will be cheaper if we create another zoo for them, feed them nuts and chocolate, clothe them in diapers (reflective of their mental age and to keep their play areas clean) and surround them with walls of mirrors. They make one wonder what kind of divinity we credit the world and man to.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
No easy water supply solutions
Re: the Jan. 19 article “Refill Lake Mead.”
The writer asserts the existence of a pipeline from Lake Mead to California that could be used in reverse to help fill Lake Mead with recent precipitation there.
There is none. California takes its water from the Colorado River at Lake Havasu (via the Colorado River Aqueduct) and at the Imperial Dam near Yuma. Both sites are downriver from Lake Mead, perhaps causing the confusion.
A lack of understanding of how the River system works leads to the many such solution simplifications that I have heard. The simplest drought response, water conservation, will go a long way to solving the larger problem. Implementing conservation programs will give those with ambitions for grand infrastructure solutions a chance to consider realistic approaches in terms of not only geography and hydrology, but also finance, engineering, and environmental impact.
Bruce Hale
SaddleBrooke
Distractions
While Fox News and its viewers have a five-alarm meltdown over a comment made by a mid-level bureaucrat about gas stoves during an interview, Republicans in the House drafted an actual, real live bill, House Resolution 25, for a national sales tax of 30% (effective).
This tax, assuming an average price of $2,800, will add $840 to the purchase price of a new gas stove that Republicans suddenly hold so sacred.
It also adds $12,331.50 to the average price of a new truck. Don’t forget the extra $24.98 for 25 gallons at $3.33 to fill that truck up. Oh, and don’t forget a place to put it all. That is, if you can afford the extra $128,610 on top of the average price of a house.
“Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.”
David Reynolds
East side
Biggest whopper yet
When I read a Facebook comment saying that Nancy Pelosi was responsible for the insurrection on Jan. 6 I thought this is a bad joke. Then Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene posted the same thing. I read in the paper that Paul Gosar is pushing the same nonsense.
In case you didn’t know, Trump knew he would lose the election and he had several plans to steal it back. Part of it was to whip his cult members into a frenzy and give them license to misbehave.
These bald-faced lies really bother me. A congressman that ignores facts to suck up to Trump should be somehow held accountable. Maybe we need some way to publicly shame them, like having them wear a dunce cap that scolds them and says “Shame” every minute. George Santos should wear one, too.
Robert McNeil
Midtown
Modest proposal to stop gun violence
People here in the U.S. love guns.
The number of guns in the U.S. exceeds the population. So let’s stop fighting this voracious appetite for guns. Let people buy guns, keep their guns, treasure their guns, make printed guns, pay dues to lobby for guns, let their children play with guns because after all, it says that we have Second Amendment rights. However, there is something else we can and should do about the horrific slaughter that happens every day in this country. This solution will not violate any gun owner’s Second Amendment rights: Outlaw the manufacture of ammunition and impose severe penalties on those who make or sell the components of it.
If angry people want to murder others, they will have to beat their victims with their gun, which would take a different mindset than standing at a distance and mowing them down by the dozens in a hail of bullets.
Eileen Dudley
Midtown
- Robert Hutchens, Northwest side
Headlines are crying to learn the motive for the latest mass slaughter of Americans, this time the unusual target is 11 senior citizens. But isn’t the motive clear, whether the perpetrator be age 6, 72, or the prevailing 20ish. It is simply anger, and killing multiple unsuspecting people has become the American method to vent that anger. But why is this a common American tragedy, rarely occurring in any other developed and civilized society? The question should be answered by those supporting the unfettered access to the weapons of choice. Yes, guns don’t kill Americans, people with guns do. A shame and stain on our society.
Robert Hutchens
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
After a human being has adequate food, clothing and shelter, the next primary need that they will try to obtain is the attention of other humans. If they cannot obtain attention for positive behavior, they will obtain attention by exhibiting negative behavior. These principles are basic tenets of Abraham Maslow and Behavioral Learning Theory. Given these concepts,take a look at our society. Competition for attention increases as the population grows. Attention gratifying opportunities are everywhere. Tik Tok, Facebook, QAnon type sites, questionable "reality" television and constant texting are but a few. In politics it seems that Americans are drawn to "reality show politics". We respond to attention seeking behavior, not proficient representation of working for our society. We are entertained by attention seeking behavior, instead of demanding politicians perform the duties we elected them to perform. We need to stop being entertained by incivility, lying, and obvious mental disorders.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Larry Gray, SaddleBrooke
Trump's latest claim that the records seized from Mar-a-Lago last year were empty folders marked "classified" or "confidential" and he kept the folders because they were "cool". Allegedly, this to deflect why he does not now possess the documents once housed within the folders. His reason for not now possessing the documents might be more believable if he claimed that the dog ate the sensitive documents while ignoring the folders.
Larry Gray
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tony Maitland, Marana
It is clear the Republican Party is incapable of overcoming their own right-wing extremists. With 20 votes against Kevin McCarthy, it is clear there is no hope for his candidacy for the House speakership.
From the perspective of the minority party, the most they can hope for is a white knight in the form of a moderate republican to appear on the scene.
I suggest Ms Liz Chaney. (The Speaker does not have to be a member of the House, and a Democrat can nominate a Republican.)
If all the Democrates would vote for Chaney, it would only require seven Republicans to vote for her to have her installed. This would be the best outcome for the incoming Congress, the Republican Party, and the country as a whole. The wildly undemocratic wing of the GOP would be side-lined and the business of governing this country could resume.
Tony Maitland
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Copper World mine
As a retired public health nurse, I believe all Tucsonans should be concerned about the long-term catastrophic impacts to the environment, health and property values posed by Copper World in the Santa Ritas south of town. Tucson is downhill and downwind. We have only to look to Salt Lake City and the damage done by the Bingham Canyon mine to see what we could become in a few years. Salt Lake City is 28 miles from its mine. Tucson will be about the same from Copper World.
Once this mine is approved, the only recourse for Tucson, Pima County and concerned citizens is lawsuits for failure to comply with regulations. Just the cost to monitor air and water quality will be astronomical. Health care costs could soar. Property values could plummet. The mine may suffer fines, but the damage will have been done and will continue. There will be no stopping it.
Elaine Wolter
SaddleBrooke
Death penalty bias
Re: the Jan. 25 article “AZ should study biases in death penalty use.”
County Attorney Laura Conover is right to urge that Gov. Katie Hobbs’ study of Arizona’s death penalty should be expanded to evaluate biases and inequities within the justice system. These biases and inequities include racial and ethnic disparities, which is why the NAACP has called for elimination of the death penalty.
The book entitled “Arbitrary Death: A Prosecutor’s Perspective on the Death Penalty,” by distinguished former Pima County homicide prosecutor Rick Unklesbay, details the evidentiary facts and procedural processes and outcomes of many capital cases in Arizona and concludes — based upon the evidence and outcomes — that the death penalty has been applied arbitrarily. Arbitrary application of a law is unjust; it violates the guarantees of substantive due process and equal protection of the laws and is therefore unconstitutional.
The evidence presented in Unklesbay’s book should be considered by the governor’s team assessing the death penalty in Arizona. (Unklesbay has donated all book proceeds to the nonprofit organization Homicide Survivors, Inc., which assists families of murder victims.)
Amelia Craig Cramer, NAACP Tucson Branch Vice President, retired Chief Deputy Pima County Attorney
Downtown
Growth vs. quality of life
Recent press about groundwater scarcity limiting homebuilding, mining and farming begins to address what should be obvious. Arizona’s capacity for sustainable and desirable growth is becoming severely limited not only by water but by negative impacts on our quality of life. With unregulated growth we can expect the value of living here to diminish with increasingly crowded recreation areas, longer commutes, more pollution, urban heat islands, scenery loss, etc. (like California, Colorado Front Range, Phoenix metro). Developers, chambers of commerce, foreign mining and farming companies want to profit from our inaction. We should debate and legislate sustainable growth limitations to consider quality of living here as well as water, with a balance of employment and affordability, and not simply keep seeking more water to facilitate endless expansion.
Brian McCarthy
Midtown
Trump’s missing sensitive documents
Trump’s latest claim is that the records seized from Mar-a-Lago last year were empty folders marked “classified” or “confidential” and he kept the folders because they were “cool.” Allegedly, this is to deflect why he does not now possess the documents once housed within the folders. His reason for not now possessing the documents might be more believable if he claimed that the dog ate the sensitive documents while ignoring the folders.
Larry Gray
SaddleBrooke
The need for attention
After a human being has adequate food, clothing and shelter, the next primary need that they will try to obtain is the attention of other humans. If they cannot obtain attention for positive behavior, they will obtain attention by exhibiting negative behavior. These principles are basic tenets of Abraham Maslow and Behavioral Learning Theory. Given these concepts, take a look at our society. Competition for attention increases as the population grows. Attention gratifying opportunities are everywhere. Tik Tok, Facebook, QAnon type sites, questionable “reality” television and constant texting are but a few. In politics it seems that Americans are drawn to “reality show politics.” We respond to attention seeking behavior, not proficient representation of working for our society. We are entertained by attention seeking behavior, instead of demanding politicians perform the duties we elected them to perform. We need to stop being entertained by incivility, lying, and obvious mental disorders.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Motive
Headlines are crying to learn the motive for the latest mass slaughter of Americans, this time the unusual target is 11 senior citizens. But isn’t the motive clear, whether the perpetrator be age 6, 72, or the prevailing 20ish. It is simply anger, and killing multiple unsuspecting people has become the American method to vent that anger. But why is this a common American tragedy, rarely occurring in any other developed and civilized society? The question should be answered by those supporting the unfettered access to the weapons of choice. Yes, guns don’t kill Americans, people with guns do. A shame and stain on our society.
Robert Hutchens
Northwest side
Represent all
Re: the Jan. 24 letter “Redistricting failed LD 17.”
I agree with this letter regarding the failed redistricting of LD 17. The failure to elect reasonably minded local representation in this new gerrymandered district was due to the personal agenda of a few individuals in local government. The people who are responsible for this thought a narrower base would fulfill their wish to elect a conservative Republican candidate. I and others in LD 17 can only wish that State Sen. Justine Wadsack and state Reps. Rachel Jones and Cory McGarr stop the embarrassing grandstanding they demonstrated during Gov. Katie Hobbs’ State of the State address and find it within themselves to focus on the many important needs of those in the district they represent.
Robin Carter
Marana
Sports on TV/Radio
Thank you, thank you for returning the Sports on TV/radio to its original location and format.
James Stehn
Southwest side
Controversial sportscaster, Bill Walton
Howard Cosell’s provocative style and refusal to conform made him a controversial sports broadcaster during his years on Monday Night Football.
Now there’s Bill Walton. Viewers either like or really dislike him. He can be – is – grating on one’s psyche. He makes the sports event all about Bill Walton. He should get his own TV travel show a la Rick Steves and/or his own late-night comedy show. He pontificates throughout a basketball game, and his pomposity and condescension (towards his colleague announcer) are mind-boggling.
When Walton is on, I turn off. A fickle fan after 40-plus years of being a devoted one? Perhaps, but my serenity and blood pressure remain intact.
The Arizona Daily Star or ESPN or the UA Athletic Department should conduct a poll/survey. Would it make a difference in who announces a UA basketball game? Probably not, but...
And don’t get me started on the UA games that begin at 9 p.m.
Camille Gannon
West side
Biden can strengthen democracy through executive ordersDear Editor,
The integrity of our democracy is under threat due to the influence of big money in politics, barriers to voting, and gerrymandered congressional districts. Despite broad support for pro-voter measures, Senate Republicans have repeatedly blocked legislation to address these issues. As a result, faith in our election system is plummeting and billionaires are using their money to drown out the voices of everyday Americans.
President Biden must use his executive power to combat corruption, increase transparency, and advance voting rights. The 2022 political cycle was the most expensive midterm election on record, with secret money groups spending big to influence lawmakers. We must also demand that our elected officials take action to restore the promise of American democracy.
Sarah Bihms
Northwest side
‘Tis a puzzlement
Finchem, Lake, and Hamedeh puzzle me. Why do they think the public would vote for them when they don’t obey simple law? In short, they refuse to accept the verdict of the voting public: They lost; fellow Republicans won. Can they not accept the people’s not voting for them? How do they explain the fact that fellow Republicans were elected? Where was the fraud in the election? Was it only with their ballots? In the meantime, Lake and Hamedeh have left no stone unturned to run up our bill to pay for their recounts and court demand, while disrespecting the democratic process. Do they really believe this will endear them to the voting public?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
WWII was largely won because the USA was the "Arsenal of Democracy". We had huge manufacturing base and able to send large amounts of military equipment to Europe. That along with Allied troops overwhelmed the Germans.
Now is the time to supply Ukraine with more equipment than Russians can supply. The Ukrainians have the will to win as The Allied forces had in WWII.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Cederbaum, Green Valley
One hundred and six people were interviewed by the Supreme Court Marshall, Gail Curley and her staff, to determine who leaked the Rowe V Wade opinion. They were the only people who had access to that information. Ninety seven signed a sworn affidavit saying they did not leak the decision. The nine who were not asked to sign a sworn affidavit were the Supreme Court Justices. It seems to me that they would want to be the first to vindicate themselves, given the recent history of the highest court in the land. Of all the Justices, only one has a history of leaking information, and that is Justice Samuel Alito. Alito spilled the beans in the Hobby Lobby case, so he is my choice as the culprit, but all nine should be asked to sign a sworn statement.
Morton Cederbaum
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ed Mesko, Vail
If you can’t attack a party’s political philosophy and agenda results, attack personality. Liberalism philosophy changed America from a melting pot to a bitter stew of waring tribes, opened the door to ISIS, illegals crossing the border, defunding police, Afghanistan surrender which opened the door for Putin to attack Ukraine. History reveals that great society programs destroyed the black family, Liberalism is akin to Socialism. Socialism is less freedom. Shouldn’t the media evaluate political philosophy and agendas thru the eyes of history, and not personality?
Ed Mesko
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Wiliam Wolfe, East side
In a recent cartoon a national sales tax was ridiculed as a terrible idea. It is not and should be considered by our legislators. It is much simpler than an income tax and can be just as fair or fairer. There are no forms to fill out, no salary reductions, no records to keep (for years), no audits and no loopholes. There will no longer be an IRS and April 15 will be just another day. it can be made fair by graduated sales taxes. For instance none on groceries but lots on yachts. Abolishment of the IRS will save about $30B and many CPA's will be free for more productive tasks. We pay gradually and the government gets its money on time and gradually.
Wiliam Wolfe
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
There is hardly anything more refreshing in current politics than when one party shoots itself blatantly in the foot as the Republicans just have done exempting themselves from records law (AZ Daily Star, 1-26-23). Only a few years ago, Republicans nationally were howling in bitter protest against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s use of a private server for her emails. Transparency was the big word then, although she never hid or destroyed her messages. The new AZ law allowing lawmakers to do not only the same, but a much worse thing, legally destroying public records and resorting to back-door policymaking, is a delightful admission for all to see that their laws serve their own agenda only, and do not apply to anyone else. These shenanigans hate democracy and operate by its rules only as long as those serve their extremist selfish purposes. Republicans once claimed to be conservative, which used to entail honesty and dignity, but today they don't even seem to know those words.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Are you kidding me?
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
Since when do Arizona legislators have the right to exempt themselves from state public records laws by merely adopting a procedural rule change? As reported in the Arizona Daily Star, this is precisely what Senate and House Republicans have just done despite vigorous opposition from Democratic colleagues. Circumventing the records law, emails sent or received by all lawmakers and staff will be destroyed after 90 days, and texts on Senate phones dealing with legislative business are prohibited from release. Had these rules been in effect for the 2020 General Election, would we have even been aware of Ginni Thomas’ efforts to replace President Biden’s electors with a false set of GOP electors, thus stealing Biden’s Arizona’s Electoral College votes?
Up until now, we thought deals cut in smoke-filled cloak rooms were the preferred method of denying voters of their right to know the truth. How long will the public continue to ignore the erosion of democratic values by autocratic GOP lawmakers?
Bryan Lane
Green Valley
Give Ukraine what they need now
WWII was largely won because the USA was the “Arsenal of Democracy.” We had a huge manufacturing base and we were able to send large amounts of military equipment to Europe. That, along with Allied troops, overwhelmed the Germans. Now is the time to supply Ukraine with more equipment than Russians can supply. The Ukrainians have the will to win as the Allied forces had in WWII.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
What are Republicans in Arizona afraid of?
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
The illustrious Arizona Republican-led Legislature just enacted a rule allowing them to destroy public records while on the job, in an effort to “protect their privacy.” What kind of underhanded things are they doing on government time? As a voter, as a citizen of this state, I find it deplorable that any public official would consider what they do on our dime to be “private.” Public employees (which they are), do not have “private” time when being paid to be on the job. This is the same bunch of politicians who used taxpayer money for the fraudulent Cyber Ninjas audit of the 2020 election. We need to get rid of these self-serving power-hungry idiots as soon as possible. And the Republicans moan about the state turning blue. Just look in the mirror and you will see why.
Bonnie Poulos
Midtown
AZ Republican lawmakers’ hypocrisy
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
There is hardly anything more refreshing in current politics than when one party shoots itself blatantly in the foot as the Republicans just have done exempting themselves from records law.
Only a few years ago, Republicans nationally were howling in bitter protest against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s use of a private server for her emails. Transparency was the big word then, although she never hid or destroyed her messages. The new Arizona law allowing lawmakers to do not only the same, but a much worse thing, legally destroying public records and resorting to back-door policymaking, is a delightful admission for all to see that their laws serve their own agenda only, and do not apply to anyone else. These shenanigans hate democracy and operate by its rules only as long as those serve their extremist selfish purposes. Republicans once claimed to be conservative, which used to entail honesty and dignity, but today they don’t even seem to know those words.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Do you hear what I hear?
Despite her courtroom losses, Kari Lake continues to maintain that the only way she could have lost the governor’s race was by means of a massive fraudulent conspiracy perpetrated by Arizona election workers. After her loss to Katie Hobbs was announced, Lake trumpeted, “Arizonans know BS when they see it.” How perverted must Ms. Lake’s sense of logic be that, when she accurately and honestly proclaims the real reason for her election loss, she doesn’t listen to herself?
Rick Cohn
West side
National sales tax
In a recent cartoon, a national sales tax was ridiculed as a terrible idea. It is not and should be considered by our legislators. It is much simpler than an income tax and can be just as fair or fairer. There are no forms to fill out, no salary reductions, no records to keep (for years), no audits and no loopholes.
There will no longer be an IRS and April 15 will be just another day. It can be made fair by graduated sales taxes.
For instance, none on groceries but lots on yachts. Abolishment of the IRS will save about $30 billion and many CPA’s will be free for more productive tasks. We pay gradually and the government gets its money on time and gradually.
William Wolfe
East side
TUSD hiring consultant
Re: the Jan. 27 article “TUSD to pay to assess support for bond election” I am saddened but not surprised at the TUSD Governing Board deciding to spend tax money to hire a consultant to gauge voter opinion on approving yet more money for TUSD. Isn’t gauging voter opinion what the Governing Board members are for? They’re elected by voters, so supposedly they’re the ones who should know best what the voters think. I must add though that I am particularly saddened by brand new member Val Romero, who ran as a supposed fiscal conservative, but in one of his first actions, voted to waste taxpayer money in this fashion. As he was just elected, he should know best what the voters think. His vote in favor of wasting tax dollars does not bode well for his constituents.
Robert Hansen
East side
History, not personality
Re: the Jan. 22 article “Now we’ll see the aftermath of Congress’ three-day fiasco.”
If you can’t attack a party’s political philosophy and agenda results, attack personality. Liberalism philosophy changed America from a melting pot to a bitter stew of warring tribes, opened the door to ISIS, undocumented crossing the border, defunding police, Afghanistan surrender, which opened the door for Putin to attack Ukraine. History reveals that great society programs destroyed the Black family, Liberalism is akin to Socialism. Socialism is less freedom. Shouldn’t the media evaluate political philosophy and agendas through the eyes of history, and not personality?
Ed Mesko
Vail
- Jeff Rayner, SaddleBrooke
The Governor of Florida has banned the teaching Black History in High Schools. I did not know that was even possible, but it should be illegal for one person to say what the educators do or do not teach.
In the recent past the right has condemned colleges for not allowing people to speak because of their political views. This act by DeSantis is beyond what the right claimed as an infringement of the First Amendment. This is History, not opinion. It has become acceptable by too many to admit to/promote Holocaust Denial. This is the same idiocy. Putting one’s head in the sand does not rewrite the facts. Horrible acts were performed in both eras. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Winston Churchill. Attempts to alter history will fail, the inquisitive minds of the young will eventually find truth and that truth will expose fraudulent acts of those who try to hide it.
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Flora Frederick, Midtown
At a time when Americans are increasingly rejecting religious affiliation, the religious far right is intent on depriving us of our First Amendment freedoms. Their idea of “religious freedom” is that they should have the “right” to force their beliefs on the rest of us. (Check out how things are going in Florida).
This is the wording of the First Amendment to the US Constitution:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Many of the framers of the Constitution were Deists, not Christians. They deliberately left any mention of God out of the document. The United States was founded as a secular nation not a religious one.
There is no “One True Religion”, and there never has been any. No one religion is “superior” to any other.
Flora Frederick
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Nancy Jacques, Northeast side
Thanks go to the Star and Laurie Jurs for her fine column (1/23), regarding issues at the border. Clearly written from years of experience, Ms. Jurs outlined a five-point practical plan for improved, efficient border functions, as well as for compassionate, forward-thinking treatment of refugees. While I deeply appreciate Senators Sinema’s and Cornyn’s (TX) hard work getting a bipartisan bill into Congress, which Republicans nixed, and getting a delegation of senators to finally visit the border, all members of Congress should post Ms. Jurs points at their desks! And take it seriously, for a change. Enough with using border hyperbole and fear as political weapons, as Jurs kindly points out. I don’t have her patience. People coming to our border deserve un-bigoted services. Recognition of where cartels enter the US (ports) and what has exacerbated conditions (among other things Title 42), needs immediate action. We need to write our congressional members. I thank Ms. Jurs for her dedicated work of compassion.
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Alan Barreuther, Foothills
After the last few days of observing the once-in-a-century spectacle appearing on television, it is apparent the GOP can’t conjure up enough of whatever it requires to run or direct anything! If you need more evidence, look at the problems GOP officials have suffered maintaining adequate electrical power grids during freezing temperatures (Texas) or potable water supplies in the cities of Flint or Jacksonville. How can these disruptive, foul-mouth juveniles “get it together” enough to run the country with no policies or leadership? They can’t!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Hard to imagine their effectiveness
After the last few days of observing the once-in-a-century spectacle appearing on television, it is apparent the GOP can’t conjure up enough of whatever it requires to run or direct anything. If you need more evidence, look at the problems GOP officials have suffered maintaining adequate electrical power grids during freezing temperatures (Texas) or potable water supplies in the cities of Flint or Jacksonville. How can these disruptive juveniles “get it together” enough to run the country with no policies or leadership? They can’t!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
More military equipment for Ukraine
Leopard tanks and more military equipment are needed for Ukraine to win. In the news, Germany will allow Poland to send Leopard tanks to Ukraine.
WWII was largely won by the USA being able to manufacture huge amounts of military equipment. It, along with more dedicated troops, overwhelmed Germany.
If Putin could see huge amounts of military equipment from the West going into the hands of dedicated Ukraine troops he might slowly begin to have second thoughts about winning the war.
As one example, Liberty ships from WWII.
The first ships required about 230 days to build (Patrick Henry took 244 days), but the median production time per ship dropped to 39 days by 1943, 3,000 were built.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Threats to First Amendment freedoms
At a time when Americans are increasingly rejecting religious affiliation, the religious far-right is intent on depriving us of our First Amendment freedoms. Their idea of “religious freedom” is that they should have the “right” to force their beliefs on the rest of us. (Check out how things are going in Florida).
This is the wording of the First Amendment to the US Constitution:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Many of the framers of the Constitution were Deists, not Christians. They deliberately left any mention of God out of the document. The United States was founded as a secular nation, not a religious one.
There is no “One True Religion,” and there never has been any. No one religion is “superior” to any other.
Flora Frederick
Midtown
Cancel history?
The governor of Florida has banned the teaching of Black History in high schools. I did not know that was even possible, but it should be illegal for one person to say what the educators do or do not teach.
In the recent past, the right has condemned colleges for not allowing people to speak because of their political views. This act by DeSantis is beyond what the right claimed as an infringement of the First Amendment. This is history, not opinion. It has become acceptable by too many to admit to/promote Holocaust denial. This is the same idiocy. Putting one’s head in the sand does not rewrite the facts. Horrible acts were performed in both eras. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it,” Winston Churchill said. Attempts to alter history will fail, the inquisitive minds of the young will eventually find truth and that truth will expose fraudulent acts of those who try to hide it.
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Terrific column on border issues
Re: the Jan. 23 article "Border security is not border reform."
Thanks go to the Star and Laurie Jurs for her fine column. Clearly written from years of experience, Ms. Jurs outlined a five-point practical plan for improved, efficient border functions, as well as for compassionate, forward-thinking treatment of refugees.
While I deeply appreciate Sens. Sinema’s and Cornyn’s (TX) hard work getting a bipartisan bill into Congress, which Republicans nixed, and getting a delegation of senators to finally visit the border, all members of Congress should post Ms. Jurs points at their desks. And take it seriously, for a change. Enough with using border hyperbole and fear as political weapons, as Jurs kindly points out. I don’t have her patience. People coming to our border deserve un-bigoted services. Recognition of where cartels enter the U.S. (ports) and what has exacerbated conditions (among other things, Title 42), needs immediate action. We need to write our congressional members. I thank Ms. Jurs for her dedicated work of compassion.
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Rainwater harvesting
The utilization of rainwater harvesting may be the answer to our water problem.
Although Germany is not considered a water-poor country, rainwater utilization in households became widespread since the 1980s. Today, about 50,000 professional rainwater plants are being installed every year, mostly in new one-family houses. These plants collect exclusively water from the roof which is filtered, stored and primarily used for toilet flushing, garden watering and household laundry.
If the states and the federal government would require the building of these rainwater plants in all new homes and require designing roofs that lend themselves to water gathering, it would go a long way.
Thomas McGorray
Northwest side
Check that irrigation!
Here's a simple, yet potentially effective, way to save water and money. When we bought our home in Oro Valley, we saw that the water bill (for a senior couple) had averaged about $185 a month. We immediately had a "water audit" by the City of Oro Valley, which showed the old irrigation system on our property was leaking — a lot! We fixed it and now our water bill is closer to $60 a month. (We also collect shower water in a bucket to irrigate our plants.)
I think the state should pass a law mandating home irrigation inspections to look for, and repair, leaking watering systems. It could add up to a lot of water saved.
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Bill Walton, an insightful announcer
I am so over all the whining and complaining about Bill Walton. He is far and away my favorite sportscaster.
After all, perhaps the complainers have forgotten: First Round No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, three-time national college player of the year, NBA Hall of Famer, 50th and 75th NBA anniversary teams. Lead two NCAA Championship teams. Integral in UCLA's 88-game winning streak. NBA Championships with Portland and Boston. NBA Playoff MVP with Portland. Sixth Man of the Year Award '85-'86. Played under legendary coach John Wooden. His son Luke, played at the UofA under Lute Olson. He has ties to the Wildcat basketball program and promotes us around the country (yes, along with his beloved UCLA). That makes him the most insightful announcer in the USA. The experience and in-depth knowledge he brings to the game are second to none.
Ask the UA basketball players what they think about Bill! If they find him inspirational when he takes the time to talk with them and the coaches. Who does a great job of promoting Tucson on every telecast, sharing the Magic of the Desert with people from all of the Pac 12 and nation? If you don't like Bill (I suspect, it is usually a political issue) turn off the sound and listen to AM 1290! I will take one of the most famous, awarded and respected by NBA and college coaches and players in the country any day.
Tom Biehn
Foothills
- John Cleary, Northwest side
Re: the Jan. 21 letter "GOP, Dems both show disrespect."
Yes Nancy Pelosi and Dems showed disrespect to Trump. Yes they showed disrespect to a pathological liar. Yes they showed disrespect to a person that goes out of his way to disrespect others including a physically challenged reporter,
yes they showed disrespect to an individual that claimed Nazis are good people. Are these the people that showed the same mentality that murdered 6 million Jews and also murdered Gypsies, physically and mentally challenged and those that 'Refused the Privilege of Serving the Third Reich?Yes they showed disrespect to Trump,a narcissistic authoritarian wannabe. yes they disrespected a president that weaponized the DOJ to go after anyone and everyone he perceived as a threat to himself weather or not they were a threat to the Narcissist. I have one question for the letter writer concerning respect.How can one respect someone that does not show respect for others?
John Cleary
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Robinett, Southwest side
The right to life movement should more accurately be called the right to deprive a women's life movement, or the right to deny a women's control over her own life. What lives are they protecting? An unborn before 22 weeks that has no chance of surviving outside the womb. They are gleeful that Roe was overturned and now have a sympathetic Republican House of Representatives. Where do they get their junk science from. Maybe the non-existent Catholic priests society of modern science, the wisdom of the Republican elected leaders in Arizona and other states that somehow think a fetus will survive at 15 weeks or less.
The answer at least here in Arizona is for the defenders of a women's right to choose to put together a coherent scientific based initiative that can go to the voters in 2024. I for one will be proud to once again pick up petitions and solicit signatures to get this much needed initiative before the voters of our State.
James Robinett
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sanford Edelman, Midtown
Two questions: In the discussion of debt limits, why is there no mention of raising taxes on the wealthiest of earnings? Secondly as to the integrity of office holders in Congress, why is there no mention of Article 1 section 5 paragraph 2 of the Constitution which allows each House to punish its members for disorderly behavior by expulsion by a two thirds vote (assuming constant lying could be seen as disorderly behavior)?
Sanford Edelman
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Linda Stanley, East side
One president refused to return them, lied about having them, proclaimed he declassified them (some with his mind), claimed the FBI planted them, told his staff to move them, and filed appeals to block a DOJ investigation into them.
The other president self-reported he found them, is following protocol to return them, and is cooperating with the DOJ investigation into them. One president is not like the other.
Linda Stanley
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dave Glicksman, Northwest side
What was once the Grand Old Party and became Guard Our President with the self proclaimed genius staying on Pennsylvania Ave. when he wasn't playing golf has now evolved to a Group of Pathetics under the leadership (?) of Kevin or is it Charlie McCarthy?
Dave Glicksman
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- william muto, SaddleBrooke
Six year old shoots teacher in altercation at school. Wayne LaPierre says a good guy with a gun could have taken out this first grader. We have met the enemy and it is the NRA.
william muto
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Why Democrats won
Re: the Jan. 2 article “Arizona shows us the messy, winding path out of Trumpism.”
LZ Granderson of the LA Times missed some key points relevant to Katie Hobbs’ and other statewide Dems 2022 success. While he got the voter registration mix right, he failed to consider other motivating factors in Arizona.
MAGA is more than merely Donald Trump. It is a drag on women’s and racial rights. MAGA seeks to ban books and easy access to voting. Public educational success is squarely in MAGA’s crosshairs, as is an investment in our nation’s future. MAGA fights for Big Pharma rather than American families.
Arizona voters, regardless of party affiliation, want a government that works on their behalf. They’re sick and tired of a party that’s more interested in election complaints, dysfunctional dishonesty and obstructionism. Democrats won and will win because they deliver for us!
Ralph Atchue
SaddleBrooke
Men getting pregnant?
Re: the Jan. 5 letter “Reproductive policies.”
This letter to the editor should be Exhibit A for the confused “reproductive policies” of the left. The author states, “They don’t need ‘poor planning’ lectures from men who will never have to worry about pregnancy.” I thought their position was that a “man” can get pregnant. The newly confirmed Supreme Court justice was unable to define what “woman” is in her confirmation hearing. In a congressional hearing in Sept. 2022, Dr. Bhavik Kumar, a Planned Parenthood doctor said men can get pregnant. So which is it?
Dale Knight
Oro Valley
Public enemy No. 1
A 6-year-old shoots a teacher in an altercation at school. Wayne LaPierre says a good guy with a gun could have taken out this first-grader. We have met the enemy and it is the NRA.
William Muto
SaddleBrooke
Crime pays
Re: the Jan. 9 letter “No penalty for Sean Miller.”
Thank you to the letter writer for the truth about the cheating under former UA basketball coach Sean Miller. Also, how about the athletic director and school president? They had to know also. What’s ironic is that the cheater and his new team will finish higher in the final 64 than an honest bunch of Wildcats under coach Tommy Lloyd. Crime does pay.
Rusty Anderson
Sahuarita
A new acronym
What was once the Grand Old Party and became Guard Our President, with the self-proclaimed genius staying on Pennsylvania Ave. when he wasn’t playing golf, has now evolved to a Group of Pathetics under the leadership (?) of Kevin or is it Charlie McCarthy?
Dave Glicksman
Northwest side
What a misnomer: The right to life
The right-to-life movement should more accurately be called the right to deprive a woman’s life movement, or the right to deny a woman’s control over her own life. What lives are they protecting? An unborn before 22 weeks has no chance of surviving outside the womb. They are gleeful that Roe was overturned and now have a sympathetic Republican House of Representatives. Where do they get their junk science from? Maybe the non-existent Catholic priests’ society of modern science, the wisdom of the Republican elected leaders in Arizona and other states that somehow think a fetus will survive at 15 weeks or less.
The answer at least here in Arizona is for the defenders of a woman’s right to choose to put together a coherent scientific-based initiative that can go to the voters in 2024. I, for one, will be proud to once again pick up petitions and solicit signatures to get this much-needed initiative before the voters of our state.
James Robinett
Southwest side
Limits and ethics
Two questions: In the discussion of debt limits, why is there no mention of raising taxes on the wealthiest of earnings? Secondly, as to the integrity of officeholders in Congress, why is there no mention of Article 1 section 5 paragraph 2 of the Constitution, which allows each House to punish its members for disorderly behavior by expulsion by a two-thirds vote (assuming constant lying could be seen as disorderly behavior)?
Sanford Edelman
Midtown
Arizona Bowl good for Tucson
The Barstool Arizona Bowl is good for Tucson, with over $1.2 million in grants to 26 businesses in Tucson. Over $5 million to local charities. This year alone, $11,000 dollars in equipment and supplies for teachers who were honored in Pima County. Several kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs were given a $300 dollar shopping spree at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Hotels normally empty during Christmas were full, restaurants and bars full, and almost 28,000 people saw visually one of the best bowl games of the year. Proud to have this bowl here year after year. The fan festival was amazing, and the Taco Drop made it a great New Year’s. We are blessed.
Linda Kunsberg
East side
One thing is not like the other
One president refused to return them, lied about having them, proclaimed he declassified them (some with his mind), claimed the FBI planted them, told his staff to move them, and filed appeals to block a DOJ investigation into them.
The other president self-reported he found them, is following protocol to return them and is cooperating with the DOJ investigation into them. One president is not like the other.
Linda Stanley
East side
Showing respect
Re: the Jan. 21 letter “GOP, Dems both show disrespect.”
Yes, Nancy Pelosi and Dems showed disrespect to Donald Trump. Yes, they showed disrespect to a pathological liar. Yes, they showed disrespect to a person that goes out of his way to disrespect others including a physically challenged reporter. Yes, they showed disrespect to an individual that claimed Nazis are good people. Yes, they showed disrespect to Trump, a narcissistic authoritarian wannabe. Yes, they disrespected a president that weaponized the DOJ to go after anyone and everyone he perceived as a threat to himself, whether or not they were a threat to the Narcissist. I have one question for the letter writer concerning respect. How can one respect someone that does not show respect for others?
John Cleary
Northwest side
Tucson public schools
Re: the Jan. 24 article “TUSD schools with D, F grades from state to set improvement plans.”
Is there any excuse for a Tucson public school to receive a D or F rating from the state? Maybe. But should there be one?
Many Tucson public schools receive A ratings, with math and reading scores well above 80%. So, what reason could there be for any Tucson public school to fail in this regard?
Many would say that the issue is “complicated.” Many others would say “let’s bring the principals of high-performing schools into the lowest-performing schools in order to increase student performance.” I am of the latter group.
Mary Jo Swartzberg
SaddleBrooke
Get rid of Walton
My wife and I dread the thought of Bill Walton announcing the UA basketball games. We watch to enjoy the effort, skill and play of these hard-working student-athletes. As fans, we feel that we deserve meaningful commentary rather than off-topic irrelevant rants. All too often great plays go unappreciated because Bill is rambling and wants to be the center of attention.
To those who enjoy his antics, get him off his special new announcer’s chair and give him his own show. But please, ESPN, if you are listening spare the rest of us the spectacle of his flight of ideas and disruptions.
Jeremiah Sbarra
Green Valley
- Updated
Debt ceiling limit
When reading a recent article, I learned of an arcane (little known) House of Representatives procedure called “discharge petition.” This apparently allows any proposed action to be approved by a simple majority of the House. This procedure is very seldom used, is very complicated (taking several months to complete), but will only require six Republicans to join all Democrats to approve an increase to the debt ceiling without requiring an approval by Kevin McCarthy to advance to a vote. This seems to be the best option to resolve the problem of raising the debt ceiling, but has not been mentioned in any media releases (that I have seen) that have constantly noted it will be very difficult to achieve given the current position of Republicans and Democrats. Hopefully, all congressional representatives and the general public can become aware of this arcane procedure and generate enough momentum to allow it to prevent a catastrophic shock to our economic system.
Keith Zwickl, retired
structural engineer
Foothills
Kudos to UA athletes
At a time when athletics seem to overshadow academics, it was refreshing to read that University of Arizona athletes posted their highest grade-point average ever for the fall semester. This deserved to be put on the front page of the sports section not relegated to page seven. I’d also urge the Star to share weekly biographies of those athletes who excel in the classroom as they are truly great role models for today’s youth.
Charles Schultz
Northeast side
We need warm jackets
Could you donate warm jacket for any size child, or women/men (small or medium) adult size? As a three-year Legal Asylum Seekers volunteer, we urgently need warm outerwear and as always shoes. These legal asylum seekers properly gained admission to U.S. They are in Tucson maximum three days while we provide shelter, showers and food. Then their sponsors or family member sponsors pay for their transportation all over the U.S. to join those sponsors, and legal asylum seekers begin acclimating and working in the U.S.
Please drop off donations at the rear entrance of St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church, 3809 E. Third St., Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-noon, 520-325-1001. One warm jacket can make a Difference!
With Gratitude,
Maury E. Reed
Northeast side
Bill Walton calling games
I for one, enjoy Mr. Walton’s sports commentary. His background information per athletes, contest history, and the local environs, are most welcomed. Too many sports announcers get tangled up in dubious metrics and stats. Thank you, Bill Walton!
Rene Lachance
Catalina
Right on, no better Wildcat than Walton
Re: the Jan. 27 letter “Bill Walton, an insightful announcer.”
I agree 100% with the letter writer, Bill Walton is the best announcer that the Wildcats can have. As previously reviewed, his insight into professional and college basketball in general and Wildcat basketball specifically is unmatched, as is his promotion of the Pac-12 and southern Arizona. Despite his bias to everything Wildcat basketball, his comments about the game, players, coaches, etc. are completely impartial. Get rid of Bill Walton and we will lose a lot more than an announcer!
Ralph Meer
Midtown
State Senate tirade
On Jan. 30, I heard a discussion in our state Senate between Wendy Rogers and a fellow senate member. This quickly turned into a supercilious, dominance and submission fest by Rogers, replete with belligerence, arrogance and political bigotry. She was intolerant of any opinion or fact outside of her clan. She acted as though her far right party was under siege by some phantom enemy; one that must be shut down. The term “election denial” was brought up, with Rogers quickly interrupting the speaker, saying that this term cannot be used. Rogers seems to be overly sensitive about the elections lost in Arizona to Biden and Hobbs. Once people like her get into power, they determine what is free speech and what is not. She is using a tactic long known in history called fascist politics. The danger of having people using this type of politics is that they have embraced fascism, a proven nation killer. Once people use freedom of speech to promote fascism, we are in deep trouble.
Steven Rasmussen
Foothills
GOP is shameless
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
When the Republicans get caught trying to “cheat,” their answer is to change the rules. The GOP has no shame.
Mary Jordison
Northwest side
HB2458 bans what students already talk about
It looks like the law proposed by Rep. Pingerelli is trying to protect Arizona students and their teachers from talking about past and current racism as if it is not even happening today or, if it is, they will not feel like they have anything to do with it.
Sorry, the horses have already left the barn! Students are talking every day with each other about racism in their individual lives. They talk about being treated differently by individuals because they look different or belong to a different group. They talk about how they treat individual people who look different from them and belong to different groups. They have seen other individual children treated differently by other individuals because their families have different religions.
The proposed law is unnecessary and unenforceable because Arizona students are already learning about and talking about racism by individuals every day.
John Higgins
Southeast side
EV contribution to roadways
Re: the Feb 2 letter “EV’s and fuel tax for roads.”
I lease an electric vehicle. I believe that EVs should contribute to maintaining the roadways. Currently gas taxes are consumption based. The more you use the more you pay.
If you have a hybrid you contribute less than if you have a full-size SUV. Does the author think a hybrid should be taxed more because they consume less?
EVs are usually rated, by the EPA, at over 100 equivalent miles per gallon of gas consumption. For 10,000 miles traveled here are what the gas taxes would be (using $0.374/gallon tax):
Full Size SUV (20 mpg) 10,000/20 x $.374 = $187
Hybrid (35 mpg) 10,000/35 X $.374 = $107
EV (100 mpg) 10,000/100 X $.374 = $37
I’m good with that.
Tom Fitzgerald
SaddleBrooke
Education elimination
Re: the Jan. 31 article “Horne lays out vision for K-1 2.”
Tom Horne is trying to eliminate free public education in Arizona. He says he wants to improve the passing rates of Arizona public schools, but he wants to do it by eliminating the honest teaching of American history (which he inaccurately calls “critical race theory”), by further disadvantaging non-English speakers, and by increasing discipline, reducing counseling, adding police officers to schools, and handing over more voucher money to people who don’t need it, further robbing public school systems that need the money for buildings and staff.
To quote New Hampshire Republican Gov. Chris Sununu on the same issues, “That’s not leadership, and it’s not conservative, and it is certainly not freedom.”
Pat Eisenberg
Midtown
- Robert Gavlak, Midtown
The message conveyed in this heartfelt effort emphasizing the importance of dedication to the ideals expressed in the Pledge of Allegiance is commendable but uncompelling to many Americans, as evidenced by current events. I suspect that very few partaking in this “automatic must-do,” feel they’ve entered into any solemn promise or powerful contract as claimed here. Undoubtedly, many regard it as mere cultural ritual.
The principles of liberty, justice and equality are not understood by rote but must be assimilated through reason and by example from an early age and maintained through lifelong commitment. These values are either present or not by adulthood and cannot be evoked by incantation. Swearing fealty through symbolic gesture is a poor substitute for actions.
Only through authentic allegiance, pledged with the same ardent devotion, to the cultivation of a culture that genuinely embraces these values not by oath, but through comprehension and practice, might we see the realization of the idealism so hopefully embodied in this worthy yet ineffective mantra.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Keith Zwickl, retired Structural Engineer, Foothills
When reading a recent article in Morningstar I learned of an arcane (little known) House of Representatives procedure called "discharge petition". This apparently allows any proposed action to be approved by a simple majority of the House. This procedure is very seldom used, is very complicated (taking several months to complete), but will only require 6 Republicans to join all Democrats to approve an increase to the debt ceiling without requiring an approval by Kevin McCarthy to advance to a vote. This seems to be the best option to resolve the problem of raising the debt ceiling, but has not been mentioned in any media releases (that I have seen) that have constantly noted it will be very difficult to achieve given the current position of Republicans and Democrats. Hopefully all congressional representatives and the general public can become aware of this arcane procedure, and generate enough momentum to allow it to prevent a catastrophic shock to our economic system.
Keith Zwickl, retired Structural Engineer
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
More like this...
- Bruce M. Prior, West side
Regarding the Jan. 18th Bloomberg News piece titled "Biden nears now-or-never point on climate", the Biden administration's energy policy with it's "raft of regulations" assures that the future price of fuels and electricity will only rise along with their cost of production. The cost of all gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, LNG, propane, butane, asphalt (roads), rubber (tires), plastics and synthetic fabrics must rise since the administration thinks we use too much if these items. This administration has no incentive to reduce fuel costs to 2019 levels since their primary goal is to force humans to rely less on fossil fuels. Either through high pricing or choked supply, diminished fuel availability will result in diminished prosperity for the great majority of humans. People striving for a prosperous future which includes abundant, life saving fossil fuels are today's new antiauthoritarians. Do not label us as anything other than that.
Bruce M. Prior
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Calaway, Northeast side
When learning to drive, my parents repeatedly cautioned me on how to react if pulled over by police: pull off the road, turn off ignition, keep hands in sight on top of steering wheel, sit still and roll down window. Keep quiet, stay seated and follow officer’s orders.
I’ve since expanded on that advice: do not fidget around trying to find your license in the glove compartment, and don’t act like Richard Kimble in that old Fugitive movie by hopping out and running. Turn on interior light if it’s dark outside. Stay seated unless the officer asks you to leave your car.
While I don’t condone the deadly beating officers gave motorist Tyrone Nichols, I recognize that police are sometimes killed at traffic stops. They thus treat a traffic stop as a potential danger. Their lives are in danger every workday. They have spouses and kids, too.
Do parents no longer imbue their kids with common-sense, lifesaving advise?
Jack Calaway
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jean Getek, Foothills
To the letter writer who wrote the letter "Border Control" on January 30th, the only part of his letter that made sense was "Comprehensive Immigration Policy which he thinks is a joke. People crossing the border under Title 42 didn't work nor did Trump's folly, the wall. Simply "halting entry into the United States" is not a simple answer nor a solution. Why are Republicans not willing to work on a "comprehensive immigration policy"? That is the true answer here.
Jean Getek
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bill Blaine, Marana
Re: the jan. 29 article "Fear of mass shootings grips my generation."
I felt sorry for Paige Masten and her generation that is in fear of being caught up in a mass shooting. Strangely, I also read a long list of complaints about litter on road on the Nextdoor Neighbor site. How could these two things be connected? In each case the theme is what is the government going to do to “fix” these things. We have begat a generation of people who think government is responsible for all things. And we’ve lost generations who believe in personal responsibility. Ethical behavior has to be taught in places like First Tee of Big Brother and Sister organizations. The goodness of religion has been banned and replaced with the theology of self. We are spending $Trillions trying to change nature while we rot from within and spend nothing to support personal responsibility and the satisfaction that accrues from it. “Heal thyself”
Bill Blaine
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
The new anti-authoritarians
Re: the Jan. 18 article “Biden nears now-or-never point on climate.”
The Biden administration’s energy policy with its “raft of regulations” assures that the future price of fuels and electricity will only rise along with their cost of production. The cost of all gasoline, diesel, fuel oil, LNG, propane, butane, asphalt (roads), rubber (tires), plastics and synthetic fabrics must rise since the administration thinks we use too much of these items. This administration has no incentive to reduce fuel costs to 2019 levels since their primary goal is to force humans to rely less on fossil fuels. Either through high pricing or choked supply, diminished fuel availability will result in diminished prosperity for the great majority of humans. People striving for a prosperous future which includes abundant, life-saving fossil fuels are today’s new anti-authoritarians. Do not label us as anything other than that.
Bruce M. Prior
West side
Public records laws
Re: the Jan. 28 article “New records show Cyber Ninjas’ ties to Trump during ‘audit’.”
If the rules the Arizona GOP adopted, exempting legislators from public records laws, were in effect when the Cyber Ninjas were performing their audit, we taxpayers would never have known about all the behind-the-scenes shenanigans that were going on between the Cyber Ninjas and Trump.
The Senate authorized $150,000 for the audit, which ended up costing many times that much, only to conclude that our votes were, in fact, counted. Joe Biden won.
If we do not stop this type of behavior before it becomes law, we will no longer have any say in our government. We may not all agree on issues, but I think we all agree it is our right to know what our elected officials are doing to earn our votes!
Donna Pierce
Northeast side
Not the Bill Walton show
Re: the Jan. 27 letter “Bill Walton, an insightful announcer.”
Yes, all the items you speak of regarding Walton’s past are true. However, the game today is not about him, but about the very talented young men who play basketball for the U of A. They should be championed, not his love of the Grateful Dead, nor his tie-dyed tee shirt nor the teepee in his backyard. Political issue? Not sure what political issue he adds to the game. It is a Pac-12 basketball game, not the “Bill Walton Show.”
Linda Scheffer
East side
EV’s and fuel tax for roads
Purchasing an Electric Vehicles (EV) will impact our roads without a “Fuel Tax” replacement with state and federal depleting funds. Who will pay for our future roads as EV defund the “Fuel Tax”?
In Arizona, consumers pay at the pump in total taxes for federal and state of 37.4 cents for gasoline and 51.4 cents for diesel as the road tax per gallon that is built into the price of fuel. That money collected goes to fund the “Highway Users Revenue Fund (HURF)” that supports road infrastructure that includes our neighborhood streets. EVs don’t fuel up, so EV drivers don’t contribute in that way.
An Arizona law would require that home, commercial, city, county and state charging stations install electric meters by Arizona power companies to collect the fee rate while hooking up to the charging stations, then send collected funds to state and federal HURF authorities.
People that cannot afford a EV should not subsidize EV vehicle owners that harm the deprived workers.
Jesse Lugo
South side
Dichotomy
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Fear of mass shootings grips my generation.”
I felt sorry for Paige Masten and her generation that is in fear of being caught up in a mass shooting. Strangely, I also read a long list of complaints about litter on roads on the Nextdoor Neighbor site. How could these two things be connected? In each case the theme is what is the government going to do to “fix” these things. We have begat a generation of people who think government is responsible for all things. And we’ve lost generations who believe in personal responsibility. Ethical behavior has to be taught in places like First Tee of Big Brother and Sister organizations. The goodness of religion has been banned and replaced with the theology of self. We are spending trillions trying to change nature while we rot from within and spend nothing to support personal responsibility and the satisfaction that accrues from it. “Heal thyself.”
Bill Blaine
Marana
Homelessness and homeowners
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Park epicenter of Tucson’s homelessness conundrum.”
The argument by Santa Rita Park’s homeless suit cites the Eighth Amendment’s “cruel and unusual punishment” to justify not removing the population that inhabits that public park. The lives of the residents who pay taxes and legally live around that park are the ones experiencing cruel and unusual circumstances. Providing alternative shelter for the homeless is not legally required. The homeless do not maintain, own or pay taxes on that land. Public parks use curfews to prevent the mischief that usually occurs after 10 p.m. The neighborhood deserves this protection. When ample warnings have been given that removal is imminent, though difficult, our spaces and the caretaking of them should be respected. Since it is not a proper, legal, or a desirable permanent living arrangement to begin with, they are not entitled to remain indefinitely. They chose Tucson to live in and it sounds like actual Tucsonans are doing what they can to help and have endured the chaos and danger enough in that location.
Christie Cummins
Midtown
Border control
Re: the Jan. 30 letter “Border control.”
The only part of this letter that made sense was “Comprehensive Immigration Policy” which the letter writer thinks is a joke. People crossing the border under Title 42 didn’t work nor did Trump’s folly, the wall. Simply “halting entry into the United States” is not a simple answer nor a solution. Why are Republicans not willing to work on a comprehensive immigration policy? That is the true answer here.
Jean Getek
Foothills
Common sense saves lives
When learning to drive, my parents repeatedly cautioned me on how to react if pulled over by police: pull off the road, turn off ignition, keep hands in sight on top of steering wheel, sit still and roll down window. Keep quiet, stay seated and follow the officer’s orders.
I’ve since expanded on that advice: do not fidget around trying to find your license in the glove compartment, and don’t act like Richard Kimble in that old “Fugitive” movie by hopping out and running. Turn on interior light if it’s dark outside. Stay seated unless the officer asks you to leave your car.
While I don’t condone the deadly beating officers gave motorist Tyrone Nichols, I recognize that police are sometimes killed at traffic stops. They thus treat a traffic stop as a potential danger. Their lives are in danger every workday. They have spouses and kids, too.
Do parents no longer imbue their kids with common-sense, life-saving advise?
Jack Calaway
Northeast side
- Jamar Ellis, Sierra Vista
In the aftermath of these newest revelations concerning policing in the United States, it is important that we—the collective public—be encouraged to examine all of the variable factors that contribute to these incidents. Of course, no two circumstances are exactly alike, and therefore must always be examined with that in mind. For a moment, though, we should perhaps give some considerations towards culture and climate.
Memphis has long been at the top of many Most Dangerous U.S. Cities lists. What were the community conditions that constituted the need for their SCORPION unit? With recruitment being a paramount concern in major cities throughout the country, we have some obvious cause and effect scenarios taking place contemporaneously. Are we recruiting, hiring, and retaining the best people? As more facts become available for widespread consumption in cases across the country, I hope we take an honest look at these issues, taking serious measures towards positive and effective practical change.
Jamar Ellis
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Daniel McDonnell, Foothills
Over one hundred and fifty people die every day from gun violence. 96 percent of the mass murderers are men, and most have had issues with domestic violence or have posted something disturbing on social media. I think most would agree with the statement that "some people should not own or have access to a gun."
What can we as a nation do to prevent continued murder? First I believe that those who sell guns need to be held accountable. Background checks have to be done thoroughly and with the knowledge that if the sales are done improperly stiff penalties and jail time would be a consequence. Secondly, no sales should be made to anyone under the age of 25. Most of those perpetrating gun violence are men 18-25. Thirdly, stop the sales of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
Unless we are deadly serious about stopping gun violence it won't stop. It appears if we do nothing it will get worse.
Daniel McDonnell
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
It should be safer to walk
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Drugs a factor in Tucson pedestrian deaths.”
I’m afraid Tim Steller has fallen into the familiar trap of blaming pedestrians for their own deaths. This may not be a popular opinion, but I believe using drugs should not be a death sentence. It should be really hard to get killed by a car. Because all of us — children, drunks, drug-users, the clumsy, the blind, the elderly — might at some point find ourselves in the middle of a street. Streets in Tucson are unreasonably dangerous. Period.
Rachel Wilson
Downtown
Education
Tom Horne is wielding his new power. Not for the benefit of our state’s students, but to conform to his personal prejudices: He this week canceled scheduled presentations re: diversity at a statewide teachers’ conference.
Some may recall when Mr. Horne canceled the Mexican American Studies program at Tucson High School — a program that kept Tucson’s Mexican-American students in school and carried them through to graduation from high school. Then he ordered the removal of many books from school libraries, books that he personally found offensive.
Mr. Horne is a man to constrain. Newly elected as Arizona superintendent of education, he endangers Arizona public-school students.
Patricia H Wendel
Midtown
Culture and climate: Policing in America
In the aftermath of these newest revelations concerning policing in the United States, it is important that we — the collective public — be encouraged to examine all of the variable factors that contribute to these incidents. Of course, no two circumstances are exactly alike, and therefore must always be examined with that in mind. For a moment, though, we should perhaps give some consideration to culture and climate.
Memphis has long been at the top of many Most Dangerous U.S. Cities lists. What were the community conditions that constituted the need for their SCORPION unit? With recruitment being a paramount concern in major cities throughout the country, we have some obvious cause-and-effect scenarios taking place contemporaneously. Are we recruiting, hiring, and retaining the best people? As more facts become available for widespread consumption in cases across the country, I hope we take an honest look at these issues, taking serious measures toward positive and effective practical change.
Jamar Ellis
Sierra Vista
Educational leadership
My appreciation to the University of Arizona and the College of Education’s, Garrison Tsinajinie, Sunnggye Hong and Stephanie MacFarland for their development of project COMPASSS.
This project involves 30 Special Education Master’s degree students, who are preparing to help K-12 children with visual impairment, severe multiple disabilities and orientation and mobility challenges. The reality is that students with sensory disabilities need academic support, and also need quality of life support as well. Arizona has teacher staffing shortages with schools filling these gaps with lesser-qualified instructors. The university is committed to helping to increase teacher effectiveness given the constraints of teacher shortages by increasing the competency and capability of future special education teachers. This will have a positive impact on sensory-challenged students.
COMPASSS is a giant step in the right direction, led by caring and committed instructional staff. How lucky we are to have these leaders at all levels of education right here in Tucson! Teachers are important, they help our children to be self-reliant.
Richard Harper
Northeast side
When freedom is anything but
Does anyone see the hypocrisy that the “Defending Freedom” law firm, based in Scottsdale, is suing to prevent a woman’s right to a safe, legal abortion using a proven medication? You can’t make this stuff up. Whose freedom is most at stake here?
The abortion pill is safe and effective. It enables a woman to make the most difficult decision of her life in consultation with her doctor and in the privacy of her home. The only alternative is surgical abortion, which is invasive, adds risk, and is unavailable to many women. This is not the business of the church or the government.
“Defending Freedom” is anything but.
Laurie Cantillo
Northeast side
Walton is the best
I find it sad that some would choose to demean Bill Walton. I consider him by far the best commentator in basketball. His comments, honesty and stories are a great addition to the game. I am always especially pleased when he is on the announcing team. If you pay attention, you always learn something from Bill both about the game and life in general. Plus he loves Tucson and the desert! He is not the play-by-play guy, he is the color commentator, and that is his job. And nobody does the “color” better than Walton. He is simply fantastic!
Robert Stanelle
Green Valley
Mass shootings again and again
Over 150 people die every day from gun violence. Approximately 96% of the mass murderers are men, and most have had issues with domestic violence or have posted something disturbing on social media. I think most would agree with the statement that “some people should not own or have access to a gun.”
What can we as a nation do to prevent continued murder? First, I believe that those who sell guns need to be held accountable. Background checks have to be done thoroughly and with the knowledge that if the sales are done improperly stiff penalties and jail time would be a consequence. Secondly, no sales should be made to anyone under the age of 25. Most of those perpetrating gun violence are men 18-25. Thirdly, stop the sales of automatic and semi-automatic weapons.
Unless we are deadly serious about stopping gun violence, it won’t stop. It appears if we do nothing it will get worse.
Daniel McDonnell
Foothills
Education leader cancels learning
Where did this dinosaur come from? Tom Horne has dissolved the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office within the Arizona Department of Education. His war on teaching diversity, equity and social-emotional learning is the height of lunacy. The skills taught in those subjects are critical to learning. Tom, are you listening? No one teaches critical race theory in K-12.
Richard Govern, retired high school science teacher
Foothills
Better use of time
Re: the Jan. 19 article “Panel OKs bill to restrict student pronouns in schools.”
For goodness sake! Can’t the Legislature come up with something more worthwhile and weighty to spend their precious time on than trying to control how students are addressed in school? Writing as both a retired teacher and a member of the LGBTQ community, I find this proposed bill appalling. Please, give school administrators, teachers, and students credit for dealing with these challenges. We didn’t elect our legislators to micromanage the schools. That’s why we have school boards. Legislators, if you want to show your support for Arizona’s students, lift the spending cap on education and vote to fund our schools and pay our teachers at a level commensurate with their importance! That’s what you can do even as you leave school management to the experts. Thank you.
Aston Bloom
East side
What everyone should pay
Re: the Jan 26 article “Tucson Water wants to hear from local community.”
It’s no secret Tucson has a water issue. It’s an issue that’s been coming down the road for decades, and each administration has avoided it like the plague. Well, the plague has arrived, now what? Like COVID, the city has waited until something had to be done. The city now wants everyone to conserve water, while they issue home-building permits by the thousands to developers. They can’t have it both ways.
I happen to live in the county and now must pay extra for my water, because Tucson needs more money. Pumping uphill costs more they say, but many county residents live along the washes. According to Tucson Water’s theory, I should have to pay more for electricity because I’m further from the generation point. It doesn’t work that way. All customers pay the same rate. Maybe Pima County Wastewater should increase the rates of city customers to make up the difference.
James Kelly
Foothills
- Sarah Bihms, Northwest side
Dear Editor,
The integrity of our democracy is under threat due to the influence of big money in politics, barriers to voting, and gerrymandered congressional districts. Despite broad support for pro-voter measures, Senate Republicans have repeatedly blocked legislation to address these issues. As a result, faith in our election system is plummeting and billionaires are using their money to drown out the voices of everyday Americans.
President Biden must use his executive power to combat corruption, increase transparency, and advance voting rights. The 2022 political cycle was the most expensive midterm election on record, with secret money groups spending big to influence lawmakers. We must also demand that our elected officials take action to restore the promise of American democracy.
Sincerely, Sarah Bihms
Sarah Bihms
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Maggie Kraft, North side
Change is not always easy, but once people understand how change can positively impact their health and finances, it is much easier. Clean energy projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Acts provide opportunities to change in a positive direction. Congress has made available billions of dollars to fight climate change and help consumers make the transition to clean energy. Tax credits and rebates are available to incentivize Americans to purchase electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and electrify their homes. As clean power production from solar, wind and other clean sources increase, the cost of electricity will decrease. So, if you need to replace your car or upgrade your appliances, now is the time to capitalize on these financial incentives. This is the kind of change we can all get behind – improved health, finances and a greener future.
Maggie Kraft
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Binky Luckhurst Woodward, Foothills
When you hear Tyre Nichols call out to his mother as he was being murdered by five policemen in Memphis it should have sounded a terrible noise to every parent in this country. I’m a mother of an adult son, no matter how painful and terribly hard it is to watch and listen to that horrific tape I felt a responsibility. I had no intention of not only watching, certainly not listening, and then I did. I didn’t have the heart to watch the whole tape, I saw enough to convince me that what I was watching was beyond my understanding. Prayers to his family and to every parent that lost a child to this brutality.
Binky Luckhurst Woodward
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Susan Alexander, Marana
In US schools, precious classroom time is spent with children reciting words they don’t fully comprehend. A young child is unlikely to understand symbolic allegiance to a flag. Mouthing that our country is “indivisible” certainly doesn’t make it so; we are a divided people. “Liberty and justice for all” is not within the capabilities of children to effect. Perhaps the Pledge of Allegiance should be revised to be more practical, meaningful, and inclusive.
If our pledge included, and we frequently pledged from a young age, to be kind and thoughtful, how would that change us? If the pledge included to be respectful and to listen attentively, would meetings be less contentious and more productive? If our pledge included a desire to care for the earth, would we be less inclined toward selfishness with how we use the planet’s resources? If we pledged to work towards peace, would individuals choose goodwill over violence?
Susan Alexander
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School, Foothills
Across the country, state legislatures restrict what students like us can learn. Lawmakers do not want tough topics, like LGBTQ issues, racism, and sex taught in schools. Lawmakers ban books to appease a political base or because parents are afraid to have conversations. Arizona's HB 2495 law went into effect last September and makes it difficult for sex ed to be taught, or for books with "sexually explicit material" to be checked out without parental consent. Let’s face it: While it may be difficult, we must learn about these things. And we should not be prevented from learning them because politicians are afraid.
Middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Changing for the better
Change is not always easy, but once people understand how change can positively impact their health and finances, it is much easier. Clean energy projects under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Acts provide opportunities to change in a positive direction. Congress has made available billions of dollars to fight climate change and help consumers make the transition to clean energy. Tax credits and rebates are available to incentivize Americans to purchase electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and electrify their homes. As clean power production from solar, wind and other clean sources increase, the cost of electricity will decrease. So, if you need to replace your car or upgrade your appliances, now is the time to capitalize on these financial incentives. This is the kind of change we can all get behind — improved health, finances and a greener future.
Maggie Kraft
North side
Punishing fan loyalty
Re: the Jan. 29 article “UA ups ticket prices for 2023-24.”
The decision by U of A to increase ticket prices is essentially a punishment to fan loyalty.
I am a longtime U of A athletics fan, attending numerous athletic events on campus. Last season I attended four U of A football games (top ranked USC was one of those games). All of the games had very low attendance, except for the ASU game, which was a sellout. The only sport on campus that has consistently high attendance is men’s basketball. Instead of raising ticket prices for all sports, and punishing fan loyalty, the U of A should first concentrate on improving attendance for all sports. Increasing ticket prices is a short-sighted and an ineffective solution to the U of A Athletic Department’s economic difficulties, and I believe it will backfire on them.
Dan Egan
East side
Helena Pueyo women’s basketball
Re: the Jan. 30 article “Cougs too much for Cats.”
I was glad to see the Star recognize Helena Pueyo as the “Lockdown Defender” in the midseason report for the U of A women’s basketball team. Her play and stats on defense definitely stand out. I was very surprised that there was no mention of her reaching the 200 career assist mark which she was recognized for before the Washington game on Friday. To play so well on both ends of the floor is even more impressive. Well done, Helena y ¡Sí, se Pueyo!
Sue Clark
Foothills
Revise the Pledge of Allegiance
Re: the Jan. 14 article “Take the Pledge of Allegiance seriously.”
In U.S. schools, precious classroom time is spent with children reciting words they don’t fully comprehend. A young child is unlikely to understand symbolic allegiance to a flag. Mouthing that our country is “indivisible” certainly doesn’t make it so; we are a divided people. “Liberty and justice for all” is not within the capabilities of children to effect. Perhaps the Pledge of Allegiance should be revised to be more practical, meaningful, and inclusive.
If our pledge included, and we frequently pledged from a young age, to be kind and thoughtful, how would that change us? If the pledge included to be respectful and to listen attentively, would meetings be less contentious and more productive? If our pledge included a desire to care for the earth, would we be less inclined toward selfishness with how we use the planet’s resources? If we pledged to work towards peace, would individuals choose goodwill over violence?
Susan Alexander
Marana
National Anthem
I’m a veteran and a longtime Arizona basketball season ticket holder. Part of my enjoyment comes from hearing the wonderful U of A band play the National Anthem. On rare occasions, talented vocalists have taken on the difficult song and I am thrilled with every one. Last week the National Anthem was attempted by a young man with an electric guitar. I am not an expert on music, but I know what I like and don’t like. The young man began playing and it was soon obvious that either his talents or the equipment he was using was not up to the excellence I am used to. The guitar squeaked and squawked and delivered a message that just left me wondering, what if? As an added attraction the young man soon placed the guitar behind his head and continued. Unfortunately, this attempt fell just as flat as the rest. Upon ending people around me had glazed looks on their faces. So sad.
Phil Reinecker
East side
Stop the stupid
Hey, Republicans, stop the stupid. It makes you look bad. Plus, you’re acting like privileged and entitled teenagers.
J. Lane Randolph
East side
My son
When you hear Tyre Nichols call out to his mother as he was being murdered by five policemen in Memphis it should have sounded a terrible noise to every parent in this country. I’m a mother of an adult son, no matter how painful and terribly hard it is to watch and listen to that horrific tape I felt a responsibility. I had no intention of not only watching, certainly not listening, and then I did. I didn’t have the heart to watch the whole tape, I saw enough to convince me that what I was watching was beyond my understanding. Prayers to his family and to every parent that lost a child to this brutality.
Binky Luckhurst
Woodward
Foothills
Don’t restrict what we can learn
Across the country, state legislatures restrict what students like us can learn. Lawmakers do not want tough topics, like LGBTQ issues, racism, and sex taught in schools. Lawmakers ban books to appease a political base or because parents are afraid to have conversations. Arizona’s HB 2495 law went into effect last September and makes it difficult for sex ed to be taught, or for books with “sexually explicit material” to be checked out without parental consent. Let’s face it: While it may be difficult, we must learn about these things. And we should not be prevented from learning them because politicians are afraid.
Six middle school students of Khalsa Montessori School
Foothills
New hope
Re: the Jan. 12 article “Water woes halt some projects.”
The Arizona Department of Water Resources refusing construction permits to new developments relying solely on groundwater offers new hope to stabilize our potable water availability. This article reports that state departments are finally taking action to address uncontrolled growth and depletion of water, energy and natural resources for existing Arizonans.
One hundred years ago, the federal government created federal agencies to dam rivers and streams to support plans for irrigation districts throughout the Southwest and Southern California. Their goal was to encourage people, primarily farmers and ranchers in the East and Midwest to move to the Southwest. Well, it worked! My grandparents moved to the Valley from Iowa and Pennsylvania in the 1920’s to farm with great deals for farmland and the promise of water on demand.
I’m well aware of the economical and quality of life arguments used to encourage people to move here. However, I believe our primary water resource problem is unrestricted growth.
Cal Rooker
Northwest side
Helping the homeless?
Re: the Jan. 29 article “Park epicenter of Tucson’s homelessness conundrum.”
This article offered an insightful and informative look into Tucson’s handling of homeless individuals. One of the Homelessness Task Force’s objectives stated, “continuing to seek housing for unsheltered Tucsonans.” I was told by a couple of homeless people at different locations that they came from other states to Phoenix and were told Tucson was easier and more likely to put up with them. To me, they are not Tucsonans or contributing members of our community, but opportunists.
Judging from the number of shopping carts of belongings pictured with the article and the ones I see abandoned in my own neighborhood, I would say that our businesses are taking a big hit on taking care of the homeless. They leave trash in their wake even when trash cans are available, pollute our washes and areas around the bike trail and do not respect property. Not true Tusconans.
Christie Cummins
Midtown
- Charles Larson, Green Valley
Do you worry that circuses are in danger of disappearing, what with so many clowns (over 200 nee Republican) in the House of Representatives, and countless local ones in state legislatures providing "free" entertainment ? Of course, their costumes aren't as colorful, nor their sense of self as productive, but they're just as comical to see and hear. Trouble is, it's such sick humor, one could almost feel sorry for them, and one should worry for human civilization. They probably think of themselves as humans, tho' they give monkeys, ostriches, snakes, and alligators competition. Inevitably, it will be cheaper if we create another zoo for them, feed them nuts and chocolate, clothe them in diapers (reflective of their mental age and to keep to keep their play areas clean), and surround them with walls of mirrors. They make one wonder what kind of divinity we credit the world and man to.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Reynolds, East side
While Fox News and its viewers have a five-alarm meltdown over a comment made by a mid-level bureaucrat about gas stoves during an interview, Republicans in the House drafted an actual, real live bill, House Resolution 25, for a national sales tax of 30%. (effective)
This tax, assuming an average price of $2800, will add $840 to the purchase price of a new gas stove that republicans suddenly hold so sacred.
It also adds $12,331.50 to the average price of a new truck.
Don’t forget the extra $24.98 for 25 gallons at $3.33 to fill that truck up.
Oh, and don’t forget a place to put it all. That is, if you can afford the extra $128,610 on top of the average price of a house.
“Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.”
David Reynolds
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Robert McNeil, Midtown
When I read a Facebook comment saying that Nancy Pelosi was responsible for the insurrection on January 6th I thought this is a bad joke. Then Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene posted the same thing. I read in the paper that Paul Gosar is pushing the same nonsense.
In case you didn't know Trump knew he would lose the election and he had several plans to steal it back. Part of it was to whip his cult members into a frenzy and give them license to misbehaves.
These bald-face lies really bother me. A congressman that ignores facts to suck up to Trump should be somehow held accountable. Maybe we need some way to publicly shame them, like having them wear a dunce cap that scolds them and says" Shame" every minute. George Santos should wear one too.
Robert McNeil
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Eileen Dudley, Midtown
People here in the US love guns. The number of guns in the US exceeds the population. So let 's stop fighting this voracious appetite for guns. Let people buy guns, keep their guns, treasure their guns, make printed guns, pay dues to lobby for guns, let their children play with guns, because after all it says that we have second amendment rights. However, there is something else we can and should do about the horrific slaughter that happens every day in this country. This solution will not violate any gun owner's second amendment rights: Outlaw the manufacture of ammunition and impose severe penalties on those who make it or sell the components of it. If angry people want to murder others, they will have to beat their victims to death with their gun, which would take a different mind set than standing at a distance and mowing them down by the dozens in a hail of bullets.
Eileen Dudley
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bill Perry, Ajo
Editor,
As our world population passes through eight billion on its way to nine or ten, it’s obvious that humans are a metastasizing cancer on this planet. We’re displacing other species at record rates, polluting the seas, cutting and burning remaining forests, using up irreplaceable mineral resources, embracing nuclear weapons and even disrupting the climate. Do we care? Of course not, but history will remember us as an amazingly stupid and selfish species.
Bill Perry
Ajo
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Loyal M Johnson Jr, Oro Valley
Biden has just, after two years of ignoring and deflecting, imposed several new rules regarding immigration into the United States. He also indicated that the border problems will not be solved until there is a comprehensive immigration policy, now held up by Republican obstinance. Who is he kidding. Until our government decides to halt entry into the United States to anyone not following the existing immigration laws, the illegals, with support from the cartels, will continue to pour into our nation because the word is out, get across the border and they will support and take care of you, no questions asked. This nation cannot survive as the nation we know if we do not control entry into the nation. No other country in the world has the open border policy that we currently have and I wonder why.
Loyal M Johnson Jr
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Border control
President Biden has just, after two years of ignoring and deflecting, imposed several new rules regarding immigration into the United States. He also indicated that the border problems will not be solved until there is a comprehensive immigration policy, now held up by Republican obstinance. Who is he kidding? Until our government decides to halt entry into the United States to anyone not following the existing immigration laws, the undocumented, with support from the cartels, will continue to pour into our nation because the word is out, get across the border and they will support and take care of you, no questions asked. This nation cannot survive as the nation we know if we do not control entry into the nation. No other country in the world has the open border policy that we currently have — and I wonder why.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Protecting our wildlife
Re: the Jan. 8 article “Threat to urban bobcats.”
An “urban” bobcat was killed by a local resident because, as he said, “It was threatening his pets.” Apparently, it’s OK to kill an “urban” bobcat for that reason, although it is illegal not to report the action to the Arizona Game and Fish Department. I guess the paperwork they collect and file is more important than the animal’s life. First of all, this was an innocent animal, doing what bobcats do. The bobcat didn’t really know that it was “urban.” Please tell me why it was not illegal to kill this bobcat. Don’t the owners of pets, especially in Arizona where many forms of wildlife are labeled as threats to pets (in spite of the fact that those animals are just doing exactly what they were created to do), have the responsibility to protect those pets in ways that would be considered to be more humane towards the wildlife?
Sue Thompson
SaddleBrooke
Humans as cancer
Editor,
As our world population passes through eight billion on its way to nine or 10, it’s obvious that humans are a metastasizing cancer on this planet. We’re displacing other species at record rates, polluting the seas, cutting and burning remaining forests, using up irreplaceable mineral resources, embracing nuclear weapons and even disrupting the climate. Do we care? Of course not, but history will remember us as an amazingly stupid and selfish species.
Bill Perry
Ajo
Everyone wants to get into the act
Do you worry that circuses are in danger of disappearing, what with so many clowns (over 200 Republicans) in the House of Representatives, and countless local ones in state legislatures providing “free” entertainment? Of course, their costumes aren’t as colorful, nor their sense of self as productive, but they’re just as comical to see and hear. Trouble is, it’s such sick humor, one could almost feel sorry for them, and one should worry for human civilization. They probably think of themselves as humans, tho’ they give monkeys, ostriches, snakes, and alligators competition. Inevitably, it will be cheaper if we create another zoo for them, feed them nuts and chocolate, clothe them in diapers (reflective of their mental age and to keep their play areas clean) and surround them with walls of mirrors. They make one wonder what kind of divinity we credit the world and man to.
Charles Larson
Green Valley
No easy water supply solutions
Re: the Jan. 19 article “Refill Lake Mead.”
The writer asserts the existence of a pipeline from Lake Mead to California that could be used in reverse to help fill Lake Mead with recent precipitation there.
There is none. California takes its water from the Colorado River at Lake Havasu (via the Colorado River Aqueduct) and at the Imperial Dam near Yuma. Both sites are downriver from Lake Mead, perhaps causing the confusion.
A lack of understanding of how the River system works leads to the many such solution simplifications that I have heard. The simplest drought response, water conservation, will go a long way to solving the larger problem. Implementing conservation programs will give those with ambitions for grand infrastructure solutions a chance to consider realistic approaches in terms of not only geography and hydrology, but also finance, engineering, and environmental impact.
Bruce Hale
SaddleBrooke
Distractions
While Fox News and its viewers have a five-alarm meltdown over a comment made by a mid-level bureaucrat about gas stoves during an interview, Republicans in the House drafted an actual, real live bill, House Resolution 25, for a national sales tax of 30% (effective).
This tax, assuming an average price of $2,800, will add $840 to the purchase price of a new gas stove that Republicans suddenly hold so sacred.
It also adds $12,331.50 to the average price of a new truck. Don’t forget the extra $24.98 for 25 gallons at $3.33 to fill that truck up. Oh, and don’t forget a place to put it all. That is, if you can afford the extra $128,610 on top of the average price of a house.
“Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.”
David Reynolds
East side
Biggest whopper yet
When I read a Facebook comment saying that Nancy Pelosi was responsible for the insurrection on Jan. 6 I thought this is a bad joke. Then Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene posted the same thing. I read in the paper that Paul Gosar is pushing the same nonsense.
In case you didn’t know, Trump knew he would lose the election and he had several plans to steal it back. Part of it was to whip his cult members into a frenzy and give them license to misbehave.
These bald-faced lies really bother me. A congressman that ignores facts to suck up to Trump should be somehow held accountable. Maybe we need some way to publicly shame them, like having them wear a dunce cap that scolds them and says “Shame” every minute. George Santos should wear one, too.
Robert McNeil
Midtown
Modest proposal to stop gun violence
People here in the U.S. love guns.
The number of guns in the U.S. exceeds the population. So let’s stop fighting this voracious appetite for guns. Let people buy guns, keep their guns, treasure their guns, make printed guns, pay dues to lobby for guns, let their children play with guns because after all, it says that we have Second Amendment rights. However, there is something else we can and should do about the horrific slaughter that happens every day in this country. This solution will not violate any gun owner’s Second Amendment rights: Outlaw the manufacture of ammunition and impose severe penalties on those who make or sell the components of it.
If angry people want to murder others, they will have to beat their victims with their gun, which would take a different mindset than standing at a distance and mowing them down by the dozens in a hail of bullets.
Eileen Dudley
Midtown
- Robert Hutchens, Northwest side
Headlines are crying to learn the motive for the latest mass slaughter of Americans, this time the unusual target is 11 senior citizens. But isn’t the motive clear, whether the perpetrator be age 6, 72, or the prevailing 20ish. It is simply anger, and killing multiple unsuspecting people has become the American method to vent that anger. But why is this a common American tragedy, rarely occurring in any other developed and civilized society? The question should be answered by those supporting the unfettered access to the weapons of choice. Yes, guns don’t kill Americans, people with guns do. A shame and stain on our society.
Robert Hutchens
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
After a human being has adequate food, clothing and shelter, the next primary need that they will try to obtain is the attention of other humans. If they cannot obtain attention for positive behavior, they will obtain attention by exhibiting negative behavior. These principles are basic tenets of Abraham Maslow and Behavioral Learning Theory. Given these concepts,take a look at our society. Competition for attention increases as the population grows. Attention gratifying opportunities are everywhere. Tik Tok, Facebook, QAnon type sites, questionable "reality" television and constant texting are but a few. In politics it seems that Americans are drawn to "reality show politics". We respond to attention seeking behavior, not proficient representation of working for our society. We are entertained by attention seeking behavior, instead of demanding politicians perform the duties we elected them to perform. We need to stop being entertained by incivility, lying, and obvious mental disorders.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Larry Gray, SaddleBrooke
Trump's latest claim that the records seized from Mar-a-Lago last year were empty folders marked "classified" or "confidential" and he kept the folders because they were "cool". Allegedly, this to deflect why he does not now possess the documents once housed within the folders. His reason for not now possessing the documents might be more believable if he claimed that the dog ate the sensitive documents while ignoring the folders.
Larry Gray
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tony Maitland, Marana
It is clear the Republican Party is incapable of overcoming their own right-wing extremists. With 20 votes against Kevin McCarthy, it is clear there is no hope for his candidacy for the House speakership.
From the perspective of the minority party, the most they can hope for is a white knight in the form of a moderate republican to appear on the scene.
I suggest Ms Liz Chaney. (The Speaker does not have to be a member of the House, and a Democrat can nominate a Republican.)
If all the Democrates would vote for Chaney, it would only require seven Republicans to vote for her to have her installed. This would be the best outcome for the incoming Congress, the Republican Party, and the country as a whole. The wildly undemocratic wing of the GOP would be side-lined and the business of governing this country could resume.
Tony Maitland
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Copper World mine
As a retired public health nurse, I believe all Tucsonans should be concerned about the long-term catastrophic impacts to the environment, health and property values posed by Copper World in the Santa Ritas south of town. Tucson is downhill and downwind. We have only to look to Salt Lake City and the damage done by the Bingham Canyon mine to see what we could become in a few years. Salt Lake City is 28 miles from its mine. Tucson will be about the same from Copper World.
Once this mine is approved, the only recourse for Tucson, Pima County and concerned citizens is lawsuits for failure to comply with regulations. Just the cost to monitor air and water quality will be astronomical. Health care costs could soar. Property values could plummet. The mine may suffer fines, but the damage will have been done and will continue. There will be no stopping it.
Elaine Wolter
SaddleBrooke
Death penalty bias
Re: the Jan. 25 article “AZ should study biases in death penalty use.”
County Attorney Laura Conover is right to urge that Gov. Katie Hobbs’ study of Arizona’s death penalty should be expanded to evaluate biases and inequities within the justice system. These biases and inequities include racial and ethnic disparities, which is why the NAACP has called for elimination of the death penalty.
The book entitled “Arbitrary Death: A Prosecutor’s Perspective on the Death Penalty,” by distinguished former Pima County homicide prosecutor Rick Unklesbay, details the evidentiary facts and procedural processes and outcomes of many capital cases in Arizona and concludes — based upon the evidence and outcomes — that the death penalty has been applied arbitrarily. Arbitrary application of a law is unjust; it violates the guarantees of substantive due process and equal protection of the laws and is therefore unconstitutional.
The evidence presented in Unklesbay’s book should be considered by the governor’s team assessing the death penalty in Arizona. (Unklesbay has donated all book proceeds to the nonprofit organization Homicide Survivors, Inc., which assists families of murder victims.)
Amelia Craig Cramer, NAACP Tucson Branch Vice President, retired Chief Deputy Pima County Attorney
Downtown
Growth vs. quality of life
Recent press about groundwater scarcity limiting homebuilding, mining and farming begins to address what should be obvious. Arizona’s capacity for sustainable and desirable growth is becoming severely limited not only by water but by negative impacts on our quality of life. With unregulated growth we can expect the value of living here to diminish with increasingly crowded recreation areas, longer commutes, more pollution, urban heat islands, scenery loss, etc. (like California, Colorado Front Range, Phoenix metro). Developers, chambers of commerce, foreign mining and farming companies want to profit from our inaction. We should debate and legislate sustainable growth limitations to consider quality of living here as well as water, with a balance of employment and affordability, and not simply keep seeking more water to facilitate endless expansion.
Brian McCarthy
Midtown
Trump’s missing sensitive documents
Trump’s latest claim is that the records seized from Mar-a-Lago last year were empty folders marked “classified” or “confidential” and he kept the folders because they were “cool.” Allegedly, this is to deflect why he does not now possess the documents once housed within the folders. His reason for not now possessing the documents might be more believable if he claimed that the dog ate the sensitive documents while ignoring the folders.
Larry Gray
SaddleBrooke
The need for attention
After a human being has adequate food, clothing and shelter, the next primary need that they will try to obtain is the attention of other humans. If they cannot obtain attention for positive behavior, they will obtain attention by exhibiting negative behavior. These principles are basic tenets of Abraham Maslow and Behavioral Learning Theory. Given these concepts, take a look at our society. Competition for attention increases as the population grows. Attention gratifying opportunities are everywhere. Tik Tok, Facebook, QAnon type sites, questionable “reality” television and constant texting are but a few. In politics it seems that Americans are drawn to “reality show politics.” We respond to attention seeking behavior, not proficient representation of working for our society. We are entertained by attention seeking behavior, instead of demanding politicians perform the duties we elected them to perform. We need to stop being entertained by incivility, lying, and obvious mental disorders.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Motive
Headlines are crying to learn the motive for the latest mass slaughter of Americans, this time the unusual target is 11 senior citizens. But isn’t the motive clear, whether the perpetrator be age 6, 72, or the prevailing 20ish. It is simply anger, and killing multiple unsuspecting people has become the American method to vent that anger. But why is this a common American tragedy, rarely occurring in any other developed and civilized society? The question should be answered by those supporting the unfettered access to the weapons of choice. Yes, guns don’t kill Americans, people with guns do. A shame and stain on our society.
Robert Hutchens
Northwest side
Represent all
Re: the Jan. 24 letter “Redistricting failed LD 17.”
I agree with this letter regarding the failed redistricting of LD 17. The failure to elect reasonably minded local representation in this new gerrymandered district was due to the personal agenda of a few individuals in local government. The people who are responsible for this thought a narrower base would fulfill their wish to elect a conservative Republican candidate. I and others in LD 17 can only wish that State Sen. Justine Wadsack and state Reps. Rachel Jones and Cory McGarr stop the embarrassing grandstanding they demonstrated during Gov. Katie Hobbs’ State of the State address and find it within themselves to focus on the many important needs of those in the district they represent.
Robin Carter
Marana
Sports on TV/Radio
Thank you, thank you for returning the Sports on TV/radio to its original location and format.
James Stehn
Southwest side
Controversial sportscaster, Bill Walton
Howard Cosell’s provocative style and refusal to conform made him a controversial sports broadcaster during his years on Monday Night Football.
Now there’s Bill Walton. Viewers either like or really dislike him. He can be – is – grating on one’s psyche. He makes the sports event all about Bill Walton. He should get his own TV travel show a la Rick Steves and/or his own late-night comedy show. He pontificates throughout a basketball game, and his pomposity and condescension (towards his colleague announcer) are mind-boggling.
When Walton is on, I turn off. A fickle fan after 40-plus years of being a devoted one? Perhaps, but my serenity and blood pressure remain intact.
The Arizona Daily Star or ESPN or the UA Athletic Department should conduct a poll/survey. Would it make a difference in who announces a UA basketball game? Probably not, but...
And don’t get me started on the UA games that begin at 9 p.m.
Camille Gannon
West side
Biden can strengthen democracy through executive ordersDear Editor,
The integrity of our democracy is under threat due to the influence of big money in politics, barriers to voting, and gerrymandered congressional districts. Despite broad support for pro-voter measures, Senate Republicans have repeatedly blocked legislation to address these issues. As a result, faith in our election system is plummeting and billionaires are using their money to drown out the voices of everyday Americans.
President Biden must use his executive power to combat corruption, increase transparency, and advance voting rights. The 2022 political cycle was the most expensive midterm election on record, with secret money groups spending big to influence lawmakers. We must also demand that our elected officials take action to restore the promise of American democracy.
Sarah Bihms
Northwest side
‘Tis a puzzlement
Finchem, Lake, and Hamedeh puzzle me. Why do they think the public would vote for them when they don’t obey simple law? In short, they refuse to accept the verdict of the voting public: They lost; fellow Republicans won. Can they not accept the people’s not voting for them? How do they explain the fact that fellow Republicans were elected? Where was the fraud in the election? Was it only with their ballots? In the meantime, Lake and Hamedeh have left no stone unturned to run up our bill to pay for their recounts and court demand, while disrespecting the democratic process. Do they really believe this will endear them to the voting public?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
WWII was largely won because the USA was the "Arsenal of Democracy". We had huge manufacturing base and able to send large amounts of military equipment to Europe. That along with Allied troops overwhelmed the Germans.
Now is the time to supply Ukraine with more equipment than Russians can supply. The Ukrainians have the will to win as The Allied forces had in WWII.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Cederbaum, Green Valley
One hundred and six people were interviewed by the Supreme Court Marshall, Gail Curley and her staff, to determine who leaked the Rowe V Wade opinion. They were the only people who had access to that information. Ninety seven signed a sworn affidavit saying they did not leak the decision. The nine who were not asked to sign a sworn affidavit were the Supreme Court Justices. It seems to me that they would want to be the first to vindicate themselves, given the recent history of the highest court in the land. Of all the Justices, only one has a history of leaking information, and that is Justice Samuel Alito. Alito spilled the beans in the Hobby Lobby case, so he is my choice as the culprit, but all nine should be asked to sign a sworn statement.
Morton Cederbaum
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ed Mesko, Vail
If you can’t attack a party’s political philosophy and agenda results, attack personality. Liberalism philosophy changed America from a melting pot to a bitter stew of waring tribes, opened the door to ISIS, illegals crossing the border, defunding police, Afghanistan surrender which opened the door for Putin to attack Ukraine. History reveals that great society programs destroyed the black family, Liberalism is akin to Socialism. Socialism is less freedom. Shouldn’t the media evaluate political philosophy and agendas thru the eyes of history, and not personality?
Ed Mesko
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Wiliam Wolfe, East side
In a recent cartoon a national sales tax was ridiculed as a terrible idea. It is not and should be considered by our legislators. It is much simpler than an income tax and can be just as fair or fairer. There are no forms to fill out, no salary reductions, no records to keep (for years), no audits and no loopholes. There will no longer be an IRS and April 15 will be just another day. it can be made fair by graduated sales taxes. For instance none on groceries but lots on yachts. Abolishment of the IRS will save about $30B and many CPA's will be free for more productive tasks. We pay gradually and the government gets its money on time and gradually.
Wiliam Wolfe
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
There is hardly anything more refreshing in current politics than when one party shoots itself blatantly in the foot as the Republicans just have done exempting themselves from records law (AZ Daily Star, 1-26-23). Only a few years ago, Republicans nationally were howling in bitter protest against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s use of a private server for her emails. Transparency was the big word then, although she never hid or destroyed her messages. The new AZ law allowing lawmakers to do not only the same, but a much worse thing, legally destroying public records and resorting to back-door policymaking, is a delightful admission for all to see that their laws serve their own agenda only, and do not apply to anyone else. These shenanigans hate democracy and operate by its rules only as long as those serve their extremist selfish purposes. Republicans once claimed to be conservative, which used to entail honesty and dignity, but today they don't even seem to know those words.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Are you kidding me?
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
Since when do Arizona legislators have the right to exempt themselves from state public records laws by merely adopting a procedural rule change? As reported in the Arizona Daily Star, this is precisely what Senate and House Republicans have just done despite vigorous opposition from Democratic colleagues. Circumventing the records law, emails sent or received by all lawmakers and staff will be destroyed after 90 days, and texts on Senate phones dealing with legislative business are prohibited from release. Had these rules been in effect for the 2020 General Election, would we have even been aware of Ginni Thomas’ efforts to replace President Biden’s electors with a false set of GOP electors, thus stealing Biden’s Arizona’s Electoral College votes?
Up until now, we thought deals cut in smoke-filled cloak rooms were the preferred method of denying voters of their right to know the truth. How long will the public continue to ignore the erosion of democratic values by autocratic GOP lawmakers?
Bryan Lane
Green Valley
Give Ukraine what they need now
WWII was largely won because the USA was the “Arsenal of Democracy.” We had a huge manufacturing base and we were able to send large amounts of military equipment to Europe. That, along with Allied troops, overwhelmed the Germans. Now is the time to supply Ukraine with more equipment than Russians can supply. The Ukrainians have the will to win as the Allied forces had in WWII.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
What are Republicans in Arizona afraid of?
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
The illustrious Arizona Republican-led Legislature just enacted a rule allowing them to destroy public records while on the job, in an effort to “protect their privacy.” What kind of underhanded things are they doing on government time? As a voter, as a citizen of this state, I find it deplorable that any public official would consider what they do on our dime to be “private.” Public employees (which they are), do not have “private” time when being paid to be on the job. This is the same bunch of politicians who used taxpayer money for the fraudulent Cyber Ninjas audit of the 2020 election. We need to get rid of these self-serving power-hungry idiots as soon as possible. And the Republicans moan about the state turning blue. Just look in the mirror and you will see why.
Bonnie Poulos
Midtown
AZ Republican lawmakers’ hypocrisy
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
There is hardly anything more refreshing in current politics than when one party shoots itself blatantly in the foot as the Republicans just have done exempting themselves from records law.
Only a few years ago, Republicans nationally were howling in bitter protest against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s use of a private server for her emails. Transparency was the big word then, although she never hid or destroyed her messages. The new Arizona law allowing lawmakers to do not only the same, but a much worse thing, legally destroying public records and resorting to back-door policymaking, is a delightful admission for all to see that their laws serve their own agenda only, and do not apply to anyone else. These shenanigans hate democracy and operate by its rules only as long as those serve their extremist selfish purposes. Republicans once claimed to be conservative, which used to entail honesty and dignity, but today they don’t even seem to know those words.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Do you hear what I hear?
Despite her courtroom losses, Kari Lake continues to maintain that the only way she could have lost the governor’s race was by means of a massive fraudulent conspiracy perpetrated by Arizona election workers. After her loss to Katie Hobbs was announced, Lake trumpeted, “Arizonans know BS when they see it.” How perverted must Ms. Lake’s sense of logic be that, when she accurately and honestly proclaims the real reason for her election loss, she doesn’t listen to herself?
Rick Cohn
West side
National sales tax
In a recent cartoon, a national sales tax was ridiculed as a terrible idea. It is not and should be considered by our legislators. It is much simpler than an income tax and can be just as fair or fairer. There are no forms to fill out, no salary reductions, no records to keep (for years), no audits and no loopholes.
There will no longer be an IRS and April 15 will be just another day. It can be made fair by graduated sales taxes.
For instance, none on groceries but lots on yachts. Abolishment of the IRS will save about $30 billion and many CPA’s will be free for more productive tasks. We pay gradually and the government gets its money on time and gradually.
William Wolfe
East side
TUSD hiring consultant
Re: the Jan. 27 article “TUSD to pay to assess support for bond election” I am saddened but not surprised at the TUSD Governing Board deciding to spend tax money to hire a consultant to gauge voter opinion on approving yet more money for TUSD. Isn’t gauging voter opinion what the Governing Board members are for? They’re elected by voters, so supposedly they’re the ones who should know best what the voters think. I must add though that I am particularly saddened by brand new member Val Romero, who ran as a supposed fiscal conservative, but in one of his first actions, voted to waste taxpayer money in this fashion. As he was just elected, he should know best what the voters think. His vote in favor of wasting tax dollars does not bode well for his constituents.
Robert Hansen
East side
History, not personality
Re: the Jan. 22 article “Now we’ll see the aftermath of Congress’ three-day fiasco.”
If you can’t attack a party’s political philosophy and agenda results, attack personality. Liberalism philosophy changed America from a melting pot to a bitter stew of warring tribes, opened the door to ISIS, undocumented crossing the border, defunding police, Afghanistan surrender, which opened the door for Putin to attack Ukraine. History reveals that great society programs destroyed the Black family, Liberalism is akin to Socialism. Socialism is less freedom. Shouldn’t the media evaluate political philosophy and agendas through the eyes of history, and not personality?
Ed Mesko
Vail
- Jeff Rayner, SaddleBrooke
The Governor of Florida has banned the teaching Black History in High Schools. I did not know that was even possible, but it should be illegal for one person to say what the educators do or do not teach.
In the recent past the right has condemned colleges for not allowing people to speak because of their political views. This act by DeSantis is beyond what the right claimed as an infringement of the First Amendment. This is History, not opinion. It has become acceptable by too many to admit to/promote Holocaust Denial. This is the same idiocy. Putting one’s head in the sand does not rewrite the facts. Horrible acts were performed in both eras. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Winston Churchill. Attempts to alter history will fail, the inquisitive minds of the young will eventually find truth and that truth will expose fraudulent acts of those who try to hide it.
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Flora Frederick, Midtown
At a time when Americans are increasingly rejecting religious affiliation, the religious far right is intent on depriving us of our First Amendment freedoms. Their idea of “religious freedom” is that they should have the “right” to force their beliefs on the rest of us. (Check out how things are going in Florida).
This is the wording of the First Amendment to the US Constitution:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Many of the framers of the Constitution were Deists, not Christians. They deliberately left any mention of God out of the document. The United States was founded as a secular nation not a religious one.
There is no “One True Religion”, and there never has been any. No one religion is “superior” to any other.
Flora Frederick
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Nancy Jacques, Northeast side
Thanks go to the Star and Laurie Jurs for her fine column (1/23), regarding issues at the border. Clearly written from years of experience, Ms. Jurs outlined a five-point practical plan for improved, efficient border functions, as well as for compassionate, forward-thinking treatment of refugees. While I deeply appreciate Senators Sinema’s and Cornyn’s (TX) hard work getting a bipartisan bill into Congress, which Republicans nixed, and getting a delegation of senators to finally visit the border, all members of Congress should post Ms. Jurs points at their desks! And take it seriously, for a change. Enough with using border hyperbole and fear as political weapons, as Jurs kindly points out. I don’t have her patience. People coming to our border deserve un-bigoted services. Recognition of where cartels enter the US (ports) and what has exacerbated conditions (among other things Title 42), needs immediate action. We need to write our congressional members. I thank Ms. Jurs for her dedicated work of compassion.
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Alan Barreuther, Foothills
After the last few days of observing the once-in-a-century spectacle appearing on television, it is apparent the GOP can’t conjure up enough of whatever it requires to run or direct anything! If you need more evidence, look at the problems GOP officials have suffered maintaining adequate electrical power grids during freezing temperatures (Texas) or potable water supplies in the cities of Flint or Jacksonville. How can these disruptive, foul-mouth juveniles “get it together” enough to run the country with no policies or leadership? They can’t!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Hard to imagine their effectiveness
After the last few days of observing the once-in-a-century spectacle appearing on television, it is apparent the GOP can’t conjure up enough of whatever it requires to run or direct anything. If you need more evidence, look at the problems GOP officials have suffered maintaining adequate electrical power grids during freezing temperatures (Texas) or potable water supplies in the cities of Flint or Jacksonville. How can these disruptive juveniles “get it together” enough to run the country with no policies or leadership? They can’t!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
More military equipment for Ukraine
Leopard tanks and more military equipment are needed for Ukraine to win. In the news, Germany will allow Poland to send Leopard tanks to Ukraine.
WWII was largely won by the USA being able to manufacture huge amounts of military equipment. It, along with more dedicated troops, overwhelmed Germany.
If Putin could see huge amounts of military equipment from the West going into the hands of dedicated Ukraine troops he might slowly begin to have second thoughts about winning the war.
As one example, Liberty ships from WWII.
The first ships required about 230 days to build (Patrick Henry took 244 days), but the median production time per ship dropped to 39 days by 1943, 3,000 were built.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Threats to First Amendment freedoms
At a time when Americans are increasingly rejecting religious affiliation, the religious far-right is intent on depriving us of our First Amendment freedoms. Their idea of “religious freedom” is that they should have the “right” to force their beliefs on the rest of us. (Check out how things are going in Florida).
This is the wording of the First Amendment to the US Constitution:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Many of the framers of the Constitution were Deists, not Christians. They deliberately left any mention of God out of the document. The United States was founded as a secular nation, not a religious one.
There is no “One True Religion,” and there never has been any. No one religion is “superior” to any other.
Flora Frederick
Midtown
Cancel history?
The governor of Florida has banned the teaching of Black History in high schools. I did not know that was even possible, but it should be illegal for one person to say what the educators do or do not teach.
In the recent past, the right has condemned colleges for not allowing people to speak because of their political views. This act by DeSantis is beyond what the right claimed as an infringement of the First Amendment. This is history, not opinion. It has become acceptable by too many to admit to/promote Holocaust denial. This is the same idiocy. Putting one’s head in the sand does not rewrite the facts. Horrible acts were performed in both eras. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it,” Winston Churchill said. Attempts to alter history will fail, the inquisitive minds of the young will eventually find truth and that truth will expose fraudulent acts of those who try to hide it.
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Terrific column on border issues
Re: the Jan. 23 article "Border security is not border reform."
Thanks go to the Star and Laurie Jurs for her fine column. Clearly written from years of experience, Ms. Jurs outlined a five-point practical plan for improved, efficient border functions, as well as for compassionate, forward-thinking treatment of refugees.
While I deeply appreciate Sens. Sinema’s and Cornyn’s (TX) hard work getting a bipartisan bill into Congress, which Republicans nixed, and getting a delegation of senators to finally visit the border, all members of Congress should post Ms. Jurs points at their desks. And take it seriously, for a change. Enough with using border hyperbole and fear as political weapons, as Jurs kindly points out. I don’t have her patience. People coming to our border deserve un-bigoted services. Recognition of where cartels enter the U.S. (ports) and what has exacerbated conditions (among other things, Title 42), needs immediate action. We need to write our congressional members. I thank Ms. Jurs for her dedicated work of compassion.
Nancy Jacques
Northeast side
Rainwater harvesting
The utilization of rainwater harvesting may be the answer to our water problem.
Although Germany is not considered a water-poor country, rainwater utilization in households became widespread since the 1980s. Today, about 50,000 professional rainwater plants are being installed every year, mostly in new one-family houses. These plants collect exclusively water from the roof which is filtered, stored and primarily used for toilet flushing, garden watering and household laundry.
If the states and the federal government would require the building of these rainwater plants in all new homes and require designing roofs that lend themselves to water gathering, it would go a long way.
Thomas McGorray
Northwest side
Check that irrigation!
Here's a simple, yet potentially effective, way to save water and money. When we bought our home in Oro Valley, we saw that the water bill (for a senior couple) had averaged about $185 a month. We immediately had a "water audit" by the City of Oro Valley, which showed the old irrigation system on our property was leaking — a lot! We fixed it and now our water bill is closer to $60 a month. (We also collect shower water in a bucket to irrigate our plants.)
I think the state should pass a law mandating home irrigation inspections to look for, and repair, leaking watering systems. It could add up to a lot of water saved.
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Bill Walton, an insightful announcer
I am so over all the whining and complaining about Bill Walton. He is far and away my favorite sportscaster.
After all, perhaps the complainers have forgotten: First Round No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, three-time national college player of the year, NBA Hall of Famer, 50th and 75th NBA anniversary teams. Lead two NCAA Championship teams. Integral in UCLA's 88-game winning streak. NBA Championships with Portland and Boston. NBA Playoff MVP with Portland. Sixth Man of the Year Award '85-'86. Played under legendary coach John Wooden. His son Luke, played at the UofA under Lute Olson. He has ties to the Wildcat basketball program and promotes us around the country (yes, along with his beloved UCLA). That makes him the most insightful announcer in the USA. The experience and in-depth knowledge he brings to the game are second to none.
Ask the UA basketball players what they think about Bill! If they find him inspirational when he takes the time to talk with them and the coaches. Who does a great job of promoting Tucson on every telecast, sharing the Magic of the Desert with people from all of the Pac 12 and nation? If you don't like Bill (I suspect, it is usually a political issue) turn off the sound and listen to AM 1290! I will take one of the most famous, awarded and respected by NBA and college coaches and players in the country any day.
Tom Biehn
Foothills
- John Cleary, Northwest side
Re: the Jan. 21 letter "GOP, Dems both show disrespect."
Yes Nancy Pelosi and Dems showed disrespect to Trump. Yes they showed disrespect to a pathological liar. Yes they showed disrespect to a person that goes out of his way to disrespect others including a physically challenged reporter,
yes they showed disrespect to an individual that claimed Nazis are good people. Are these the people that showed the same mentality that murdered 6 million Jews and also murdered Gypsies, physically and mentally challenged and those that 'Refused the Privilege of Serving the Third Reich?Yes they showed disrespect to Trump,a narcissistic authoritarian wannabe. yes they disrespected a president that weaponized the DOJ to go after anyone and everyone he perceived as a threat to himself weather or not they were a threat to the Narcissist. I have one question for the letter writer concerning respect.How can one respect someone that does not show respect for others?
John Cleary
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Robinett, Southwest side
The right to life movement should more accurately be called the right to deprive a women's life movement, or the right to deny a women's control over her own life. What lives are they protecting? An unborn before 22 weeks that has no chance of surviving outside the womb. They are gleeful that Roe was overturned and now have a sympathetic Republican House of Representatives. Where do they get their junk science from. Maybe the non-existent Catholic priests society of modern science, the wisdom of the Republican elected leaders in Arizona and other states that somehow think a fetus will survive at 15 weeks or less.
The answer at least here in Arizona is for the defenders of a women's right to choose to put together a coherent scientific based initiative that can go to the voters in 2024. I for one will be proud to once again pick up petitions and solicit signatures to get this much needed initiative before the voters of our State.
James Robinett
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sanford Edelman, Midtown
Two questions: In the discussion of debt limits, why is there no mention of raising taxes on the wealthiest of earnings? Secondly as to the integrity of office holders in Congress, why is there no mention of Article 1 section 5 paragraph 2 of the Constitution which allows each House to punish its members for disorderly behavior by expulsion by a two thirds vote (assuming constant lying could be seen as disorderly behavior)?
Sanford Edelman
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Linda Stanley, East side
One president refused to return them, lied about having them, proclaimed he declassified them (some with his mind), claimed the FBI planted them, told his staff to move them, and filed appeals to block a DOJ investigation into them.
The other president self-reported he found them, is following protocol to return them, and is cooperating with the DOJ investigation into them. One president is not like the other.
Linda Stanley
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dave Glicksman, Northwest side
What was once the Grand Old Party and became Guard Our President with the self proclaimed genius staying on Pennsylvania Ave. when he wasn't playing golf has now evolved to a Group of Pathetics under the leadership (?) of Kevin or is it Charlie McCarthy?
Dave Glicksman
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- william muto, SaddleBrooke
Six year old shoots teacher in altercation at school. Wayne LaPierre says a good guy with a gun could have taken out this first grader. We have met the enemy and it is the NRA.
william muto
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Why Democrats won
Re: the Jan. 2 article “Arizona shows us the messy, winding path out of Trumpism.”
LZ Granderson of the LA Times missed some key points relevant to Katie Hobbs’ and other statewide Dems 2022 success. While he got the voter registration mix right, he failed to consider other motivating factors in Arizona.
MAGA is more than merely Donald Trump. It is a drag on women’s and racial rights. MAGA seeks to ban books and easy access to voting. Public educational success is squarely in MAGA’s crosshairs, as is an investment in our nation’s future. MAGA fights for Big Pharma rather than American families.
Arizona voters, regardless of party affiliation, want a government that works on their behalf. They’re sick and tired of a party that’s more interested in election complaints, dysfunctional dishonesty and obstructionism. Democrats won and will win because they deliver for us!
Ralph Atchue
SaddleBrooke
Men getting pregnant?
Re: the Jan. 5 letter “Reproductive policies.”
This letter to the editor should be Exhibit A for the confused “reproductive policies” of the left. The author states, “They don’t need ‘poor planning’ lectures from men who will never have to worry about pregnancy.” I thought their position was that a “man” can get pregnant. The newly confirmed Supreme Court justice was unable to define what “woman” is in her confirmation hearing. In a congressional hearing in Sept. 2022, Dr. Bhavik Kumar, a Planned Parenthood doctor said men can get pregnant. So which is it?
Dale Knight
Oro Valley
Public enemy No. 1
A 6-year-old shoots a teacher in an altercation at school. Wayne LaPierre says a good guy with a gun could have taken out this first-grader. We have met the enemy and it is the NRA.
William Muto
SaddleBrooke
Crime pays
Re: the Jan. 9 letter “No penalty for Sean Miller.”
Thank you to the letter writer for the truth about the cheating under former UA basketball coach Sean Miller. Also, how about the athletic director and school president? They had to know also. What’s ironic is that the cheater and his new team will finish higher in the final 64 than an honest bunch of Wildcats under coach Tommy Lloyd. Crime does pay.
Rusty Anderson
Sahuarita
A new acronym
What was once the Grand Old Party and became Guard Our President, with the self-proclaimed genius staying on Pennsylvania Ave. when he wasn’t playing golf, has now evolved to a Group of Pathetics under the leadership (?) of Kevin or is it Charlie McCarthy?
Dave Glicksman
Northwest side
What a misnomer: The right to life
The right-to-life movement should more accurately be called the right to deprive a woman’s life movement, or the right to deny a woman’s control over her own life. What lives are they protecting? An unborn before 22 weeks has no chance of surviving outside the womb. They are gleeful that Roe was overturned and now have a sympathetic Republican House of Representatives. Where do they get their junk science from? Maybe the non-existent Catholic priests’ society of modern science, the wisdom of the Republican elected leaders in Arizona and other states that somehow think a fetus will survive at 15 weeks or less.
The answer at least here in Arizona is for the defenders of a woman’s right to choose to put together a coherent scientific-based initiative that can go to the voters in 2024. I, for one, will be proud to once again pick up petitions and solicit signatures to get this much-needed initiative before the voters of our state.
James Robinett
Southwest side
Limits and ethics
Two questions: In the discussion of debt limits, why is there no mention of raising taxes on the wealthiest of earnings? Secondly, as to the integrity of officeholders in Congress, why is there no mention of Article 1 section 5 paragraph 2 of the Constitution, which allows each House to punish its members for disorderly behavior by expulsion by a two-thirds vote (assuming constant lying could be seen as disorderly behavior)?
Sanford Edelman
Midtown
Arizona Bowl good for Tucson
The Barstool Arizona Bowl is good for Tucson, with over $1.2 million in grants to 26 businesses in Tucson. Over $5 million to local charities. This year alone, $11,000 dollars in equipment and supplies for teachers who were honored in Pima County. Several kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs were given a $300 dollar shopping spree at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Hotels normally empty during Christmas were full, restaurants and bars full, and almost 28,000 people saw visually one of the best bowl games of the year. Proud to have this bowl here year after year. The fan festival was amazing, and the Taco Drop made it a great New Year’s. We are blessed.
Linda Kunsberg
East side
One thing is not like the other
One president refused to return them, lied about having them, proclaimed he declassified them (some with his mind), claimed the FBI planted them, told his staff to move them, and filed appeals to block a DOJ investigation into them.
The other president self-reported he found them, is following protocol to return them and is cooperating with the DOJ investigation into them. One president is not like the other.
Linda Stanley
East side
Showing respect
Re: the Jan. 21 letter “GOP, Dems both show disrespect.”
Yes, Nancy Pelosi and Dems showed disrespect to Donald Trump. Yes, they showed disrespect to a pathological liar. Yes, they showed disrespect to a person that goes out of his way to disrespect others including a physically challenged reporter. Yes, they showed disrespect to an individual that claimed Nazis are good people. Yes, they showed disrespect to Trump, a narcissistic authoritarian wannabe. Yes, they disrespected a president that weaponized the DOJ to go after anyone and everyone he perceived as a threat to himself, whether or not they were a threat to the Narcissist. I have one question for the letter writer concerning respect. How can one respect someone that does not show respect for others?
John Cleary
Northwest side
Tucson public schools
Re: the Jan. 24 article “TUSD schools with D, F grades from state to set improvement plans.”
Is there any excuse for a Tucson public school to receive a D or F rating from the state? Maybe. But should there be one?
Many Tucson public schools receive A ratings, with math and reading scores well above 80%. So, what reason could there be for any Tucson public school to fail in this regard?
Many would say that the issue is “complicated.” Many others would say “let’s bring the principals of high-performing schools into the lowest-performing schools in order to increase student performance.” I am of the latter group.
Mary Jo Swartzberg
SaddleBrooke
Get rid of Walton
My wife and I dread the thought of Bill Walton announcing the UA basketball games. We watch to enjoy the effort, skill and play of these hard-working student-athletes. As fans, we feel that we deserve meaningful commentary rather than off-topic irrelevant rants. All too often great plays go unappreciated because Bill is rambling and wants to be the center of attention.
To those who enjoy his antics, get him off his special new announcer’s chair and give him his own show. But please, ESPN, if you are listening spare the rest of us the spectacle of his flight of ideas and disruptions.
Jeremiah Sbarra
Green Valley
Debt ceiling limit
When reading a recent article, I learned of an arcane (little known) House of Representatives procedure called “discharge petition.” This apparently allows any proposed action to be approved by a simple majority of the House. This procedure is very seldom used, is very complicated (taking several months to complete), but will only require six Republicans to join all Democrats to approve an increase to the debt ceiling without requiring an approval by Kevin McCarthy to advance to a vote. This seems to be the best option to resolve the problem of raising the debt ceiling, but has not been mentioned in any media releases (that I have seen) that have constantly noted it will be very difficult to achieve given the current position of Republicans and Democrats. Hopefully, all congressional representatives and the general public can become aware of this arcane procedure and generate enough momentum to allow it to prevent a catastrophic shock to our economic system.
Keith Zwickl, retired
structural engineer
Foothills
Kudos to UA athletes
At a time when athletics seem to overshadow academics, it was refreshing to read that University of Arizona athletes posted their highest grade-point average ever for the fall semester. This deserved to be put on the front page of the sports section not relegated to page seven. I’d also urge the Star to share weekly biographies of those athletes who excel in the classroom as they are truly great role models for today’s youth.
Charles Schultz
Northeast side
We need warm jackets
Could you donate warm jacket for any size child, or women/men (small or medium) adult size? As a three-year Legal Asylum Seekers volunteer, we urgently need warm outerwear and as always shoes. These legal asylum seekers properly gained admission to U.S. They are in Tucson maximum three days while we provide shelter, showers and food. Then their sponsors or family member sponsors pay for their transportation all over the U.S. to join those sponsors, and legal asylum seekers begin acclimating and working in the U.S.
Please drop off donations at the rear entrance of St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church, 3809 E. Third St., Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-noon, 520-325-1001. One warm jacket can make a Difference!
With Gratitude,
Maury E. Reed
Northeast side
Bill Walton calling games
I for one, enjoy Mr. Walton’s sports commentary. His background information per athletes, contest history, and the local environs, are most welcomed. Too many sports announcers get tangled up in dubious metrics and stats. Thank you, Bill Walton!
Rene Lachance
Catalina
Right on, no better Wildcat than Walton
Re: the Jan. 27 letter “Bill Walton, an insightful announcer.”
I agree 100% with the letter writer, Bill Walton is the best announcer that the Wildcats can have. As previously reviewed, his insight into professional and college basketball in general and Wildcat basketball specifically is unmatched, as is his promotion of the Pac-12 and southern Arizona. Despite his bias to everything Wildcat basketball, his comments about the game, players, coaches, etc. are completely impartial. Get rid of Bill Walton and we will lose a lot more than an announcer!
Ralph Meer
Midtown
State Senate tirade
On Jan. 30, I heard a discussion in our state Senate between Wendy Rogers and a fellow senate member. This quickly turned into a supercilious, dominance and submission fest by Rogers, replete with belligerence, arrogance and political bigotry. She was intolerant of any opinion or fact outside of her clan. She acted as though her far right party was under siege by some phantom enemy; one that must be shut down. The term “election denial” was brought up, with Rogers quickly interrupting the speaker, saying that this term cannot be used. Rogers seems to be overly sensitive about the elections lost in Arizona to Biden and Hobbs. Once people like her get into power, they determine what is free speech and what is not. She is using a tactic long known in history called fascist politics. The danger of having people using this type of politics is that they have embraced fascism, a proven nation killer. Once people use freedom of speech to promote fascism, we are in deep trouble.
Steven Rasmussen
Foothills
GOP is shameless
Re: the Jan. 26 article “AZ lawmakers exempt selves from records law, will destroy emails.”
When the Republicans get caught trying to “cheat,” their answer is to change the rules. The GOP has no shame.
Mary Jordison
Northwest side
HB2458 bans what students already talk about
It looks like the law proposed by Rep. Pingerelli is trying to protect Arizona students and their teachers from talking about past and current racism as if it is not even happening today or, if it is, they will not feel like they have anything to do with it.
Sorry, the horses have already left the barn! Students are talking every day with each other about racism in their individual lives. They talk about being treated differently by individuals because they look different or belong to a different group. They talk about how they treat individual people who look different from them and belong to different groups. They have seen other individual children treated differently by other individuals because their families have different religions.
The proposed law is unnecessary and unenforceable because Arizona students are already learning about and talking about racism by individuals every day.
John Higgins
Southeast side
EV contribution to roadways
Re: the Feb 2 letter “EV’s and fuel tax for roads.”
I lease an electric vehicle. I believe that EVs should contribute to maintaining the roadways. Currently gas taxes are consumption based. The more you use the more you pay.
If you have a hybrid you contribute less than if you have a full-size SUV. Does the author think a hybrid should be taxed more because they consume less?
EVs are usually rated, by the EPA, at over 100 equivalent miles per gallon of gas consumption. For 10,000 miles traveled here are what the gas taxes would be (using $0.374/gallon tax):
Full Size SUV (20 mpg) 10,000/20 x $.374 = $187
Hybrid (35 mpg) 10,000/35 X $.374 = $107
EV (100 mpg) 10,000/100 X $.374 = $37
I’m good with that.
Tom Fitzgerald
SaddleBrooke
Education elimination
Re: the Jan. 31 article “Horne lays out vision for K-1 2.”
Tom Horne is trying to eliminate free public education in Arizona. He says he wants to improve the passing rates of Arizona public schools, but he wants to do it by eliminating the honest teaching of American history (which he inaccurately calls “critical race theory”), by further disadvantaging non-English speakers, and by increasing discipline, reducing counseling, adding police officers to schools, and handing over more voucher money to people who don’t need it, further robbing public school systems that need the money for buildings and staff.
To quote New Hampshire Republican Gov. Chris Sununu on the same issues, “That’s not leadership, and it’s not conservative, and it is certainly not freedom.”
Pat Eisenberg
Midtown
- Robert Gavlak, Midtown
The message conveyed in this heartfelt effort emphasizing the importance of dedication to the ideals expressed in the Pledge of Allegiance is commendable but uncompelling to many Americans, as evidenced by current events. I suspect that very few partaking in this “automatic must-do,” feel they’ve entered into any solemn promise or powerful contract as claimed here. Undoubtedly, many regard it as mere cultural ritual.
The principles of liberty, justice and equality are not understood by rote but must be assimilated through reason and by example from an early age and maintained through lifelong commitment. These values are either present or not by adulthood and cannot be evoked by incantation. Swearing fealty through symbolic gesture is a poor substitute for actions.
Only through authentic allegiance, pledged with the same ardent devotion, to the cultivation of a culture that genuinely embraces these values not by oath, but through comprehension and practice, might we see the realization of the idealism so hopefully embodied in this worthy yet ineffective mantra.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Keith Zwickl, retired Structural Engineer, Foothills
When reading a recent article in Morningstar I learned of an arcane (little known) House of Representatives procedure called "discharge petition". This apparently allows any proposed action to be approved by a simple majority of the House. This procedure is very seldom used, is very complicated (taking several months to complete), but will only require 6 Republicans to join all Democrats to approve an increase to the debt ceiling without requiring an approval by Kevin McCarthy to advance to a vote. This seems to be the best option to resolve the problem of raising the debt ceiling, but has not been mentioned in any media releases (that I have seen) that have constantly noted it will be very difficult to achieve given the current position of Republicans and Democrats. Hopefully all congressional representatives and the general public can become aware of this arcane procedure, and generate enough momentum to allow it to prevent a catastrophic shock to our economic system.
Keith Zwickl, retired Structural Engineer
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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