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(2009/07/06)
President Barack Obama’s health plan is modeled after the failed Massachusetts plan, which was supposed to make health insurance affordable but has increased costs, wasted taxpayers’ money, hurt small businesses, limited patients’ choices and created shortages and long waiting lists. The Cato Institute reports health insurance in Massachusetts costs an average of $16,897 for a family of four, compared with a national average of $12,700.
(2009/07/06)
America’s family farmers have unique roles to play in combating global climate change. Several members of Wisconsin’s congressional delegation understand that, and I thank them for their votes in support of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. As President Barack Obama said about the legislation’s passage, it is a “bold and necessary step.”
(2009/07/06)
Some corrections on U.S. Rep. Ron Kind’s recent remarks (“Guest View,” La Crosse Tribune, June 6, 2009):
(2009/07/06)
Sometime early Tuesday morning, someone shattered my car window with a BB while it was parked in front of my house. Two weeks ago, I was finally able to afford to replace my car that was totaled by an inattentive driver in September 2007 (he was on his cell phone), and now I am faced with finding the money to replace the window.
(2009/07/06)
On June 26, I called U.S. Rep. Ron Kind’s office in Washington were told by two different staff members the response from the district was overwhelmingly opposed to the cap-and-trade bill. Congressman Kind decided to do House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Barack Obama’s bidding rather than that of the district.
(2009/07/06)
This is a response to the recent story about a 2-year-old child who was killed by a pet Burmese python in Florida.
(2009/07/05)
By passing climate change legislation, the U.S. House of Representatives has locked in the largest tax increase in American History as well as the biggest scam on the American people.
(2009/07/05)
I just got around to looking at the schedule of events for this year’s Riverfest.
(2009/07/05)
I, like many others, was shocked and disgusted with the La Crosse Police Department and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. I cannot believe that the black bear they shot and killed was a threat to anyone.
(2009/07/05)
Over the centuries, a deluge of unkind and untruthful statements have been expressed about Christians. Today such words of condemnation are of an epidemic proportion. This increasing onslaught of unkindnesses and untruths will continue until the return of Christ.
(2009/07/04)
Mauston On Saturday, we will celebrate the Fourth of July, our independence, our liberty. But today, I want to warn you of what are among the greatest threats to our liberty we have ever faced: our own governments!
(2009/07/04)
A bill authorizing the purchase of F-22 fighter jets is proposed. These jets are now essentially mission obsolete and unwanted. Defense Secretary Robert Gates has indicated he does not want more F-22s for the Department of Defense. Our congressional leaders continue to fund this sort of wasteful spending. Could these inexplicable congressional actions be due to $15.8 million spent this year by military lobbyists to maintain this ongoing spending?
(2009/07/04)
Last week, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a climate control bill by just seven votes.
(2009/07/04)
In a letter to the editor, Chris Muller asked us to refuse government assistance of all types.
(2009/07/04)
The reason most bicyclists don’t need to stop for stop signs is because their little plastic hats are magic!
(2009/07/02)
Well, I have listened to the explanation of why the bear was killed. I just don’t understand a couple of things:
(2009/07/02)
Pitiful. Absolutely pitiful. How unabashedly cruel and inhumane. By now, anyone who has seen or heard of the killing of a black bear in Myrick Park in La Crosse knows what I’m referring to.
(2009/07/02)
Concerning the dispatch of the black bear in Myrick Park, isn’t our Bearcat equipped with a tranquilizer weapon?
(2009/07/02)
I lived in La Crosse all my life until 1993, when I moved to Tomah. I agree with everyone about the “Bear Scare.” This bear could have been captured and transferred elsewhere. Did anyone else notice, in the police video on the Tribune’s Web site, that it appeared that the police officer got very close to the bear with his vehicle?
(2009/07/02)
It is absolutely infuriating to me and many, many others that the La Crosse Police Department and the DNR acted so irresponsibly in the wake of the black bear in Myrick Park over the weekend. The department is an absolute embarrassment in its decisions.
(2009/07/02)
When I read about the unfortunate incident involving the bear in Myrick Park, I smiled. Not because the bear was put down — that was uncalled for. But I was reminded of a story my father loved to tell involving his mother, my grandmother, and a bear.
(2009/07/02)
The DNR and La Crosse police made a difficult but appropriate decision on Saturday. While the best option in the best circumstance would be to give a bear space and allow it to continue on its way (which would have been an option in Hixon Forest), this bear was in a city park with large numbers of people, including small children.
(2009/07/02)
I have read many of the comments about the bear in Myrick Park on the Tribune’s website. There is anger, frustration, sadness, and outrage in the comments. Here is my perspective, for what it is worth.
(2009/07/02)
I fully support the DNR and La Crosse Police Department’s decision to shoot the bear. Here are some questions for those who are so quick to point the finger at the DNR:
(2009/07/01)
This past weekend, La Crosse was host to the first Mission of Mercy event to take place in Wisconsin. More than 1,500 people of all ages received all types of dental care ranging from cleanings and whitenings to fillings and extractions.
(2009/07/01)
As a member of the health care community, I can tell you first hand why seatbelts are so important and why the law is being enforced.
(2009/07/01)
Peewa. Native American for Grandfather Bear. Respected One.
(2009/07/01)
A response to Bradley Butterfield’s criticism (“Muller was off base on ‘Independence,’” Your Views, Sunday Tribune):
(2009/06/30)
I was absolutely enraged when I read Sunday’s story about the bear being shot in Myrick Park. I thought the DNR’s job was to protect the wildlife. So why was it not their first objective to tranquillize and save the bear once it was in the tree and not causing an immediate threat? But to kill it! Where are their priorities?Granted, they did not have a gun there with them, but they could have easily gotten one. The bear would have stayed up in the tree where it felt safe and would not have been a danger to anyone.
(2009/06/30)
I pride myself on living in a community that has a beautiful outdoors setting and citizens who really seem to appreciate both the land and wildlife that come with our unique location. My feeling of pride has all but vanished after the police and DNR’s actions Saturday morning. I am livid about and greatly question the DNR’s knowledge and skill base after how they dealt with the black bear in Myrick Park.
(2009/06/30)
Black bears have been sighted in the area within the last few months. Why did the La Crosse Police Department have to shoot this bear? They chased and frightened it up a tree. After all the sightings, the DNR should have had tranquilizers hand. They have been watching these bears in the area. This bear should have been tranquilized. Then to shoot it in front of children! Does this whole thing make sense? Great job, La Crosse Police Department.
(2009/06/30)
The shooting of the black bear in Myrick Park was completely unnecessary and a crime against nature! The bear was in a tree and wasn’t going to come down all day with all the people around. So there was no immediate danger. All that was required would be to obtain a tranquilizer gun to immobilize the bear so the DNR could have him transported to the North-woods, where bears are common, normal part of nature. When we saw the bear in our yard, we thought it was an interesting and enjoyable sight. I wish I had followed him to Myrick to try to prevent the inhumane actions of the police.
(2009/06/30)
As a member of the outdoor and hunting community, as well as a resident of La Crosse County, I am very ticked off about the bear that was shot in Myrick Park over the weekend. Why on earth did the bear have to be shot? We could have used a tranquilizer and relocated the bear to an area like the Black River Forest or the Melrose-Mindoro area in which I live where there are other bears. I hope that I am not the only person that thinks the city and the DNR were wrong in what they did. After all, what has the DNR done that has been right — just look at the deer hunting regulations.
(2009/06/30)
It seems a shame to me that La Crosse, being listed by US News and World Report as one of the 10 best places to live, cannot handle one scared, poor little treed bear without forming a firing squad of
(2009/06/30)
For the past 12 months, I have had the great opportunity of working with several dedicated citizens on a committee that was formed to review the proposed commercial development standards for the city of La Crosse.
(2009/06/30)
In response to Vicki Burke’s letter to the editor (June 12 Tribune), I am wondering what event she went to. I found Taggert Brooks’ presentation interesting, informative and non-political. The comments he made should have struck both sides of the aisle and were well received from people I talked to at the forum.
(2009/06/29)
I notice how hard it is for all of us to comprehend the news given us by our world’s best scientists that the condition of our planet is already dire and worsening day by day (think tsunami, Katrina, 24-hour rains, Lake Delton, floods, big local weather irregularities).
(2009/06/29)
Recently you printed a story about a group, Health Care for America Now. The story referred to 47 million uninsured Ameri-cans. Who does this include? Non-citizens? Young adults who opt to not have insurance? It would be important to know where their cost numbers come from.
(2009/06/29)
I see where we now can be ticketed for not wearing seat belts. If that is the rule, why aren’t the other rules of the road not enforced, such as bicyclists stopping at stop signs? It is a rare thing to see a biker honor a stop sign. Rules of the road apply to bikers as well as auto drivers. Of course, if there’s an accident, who would be considered at fault? It is far more hazardous to run a stop sign than not wear a seat belt, so let’s get real.
(2009/06/29)
Congratulations, fellow Wisconsin residents! We live in the 27th state to pass a comprehensive smoke-free worksite bill that will protect workers from the health effects of second-hand smoke. Thank you to our elected officials who voted to take this step to protect the public’s health. We turn now to the important work of implementation for a successful smoke-free worksite policy in Wisconsin.
(2009/06/28)
A response to Chris Muller’s letter about independence (Thursday Tribune):
(2009/06/28)
Last week, I was in Greenbelt, Md., teaching a human resources and benefits class. One of the participants mentioned that
(2009/06/28)
It was with great pleasure and pride that about 1,900 people had the chance to see a great ballgame on a trip to Miller Park in Milwaukee last week for La Crosse Community Day.
(2009/06/27)
Re: South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford: Another “values” Republican. I can hardly wait until the Grand Old Party regains political control. I guess in the meantime I will just have to be content with the great “role models” the party provides.
(2009/06/27)
Petry Trust of Illinois is planning to build a 3,200-cow concentrated animal feeding operation in Vernon County. Local residents are concerned about the documented environmental risks associated with an industrial farm of this magnitude.
(2009/06/27)
This morning was a rude awakening to the growing acts of crude vandalism on the streets of our community. As I approached my car for the morning commute, a back seat full of broken glass greeted me. The back window of my car had been shattered with a tennis ball-size rock that lay in the million pieces of glass. The car isn’t impressive, just a ’91 Toyota Tercel, yet someone thought it would be a perfect place to display their pathetic act of chauvinism. Nothing was taken from the car, so why harm the property? Nobody thought it was funny when I called for estimates for repairs, and now I pay.
(2009/06/27)
It is our understanding that both Franciscan Skemp and Gundersen Lutheran medical centers were contacted for outsourcing medical tests for local veterans. The information we received is that both institutions declined to help our veterans with testing such as upper GIs and other primary testing. Reason: The government would not compensate the institutions enough money for such testing. It is our understanding that the compensation was more than Medicare and Medicaid.
(2009/06/27)
After reading Pat Hanson’s response to a letter regarding Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Maricopa County, Ariz. (Tuesday Tribune), I was once again reminded how naive too many people are about what is happening in this country as it relates to the criminal element and illegal immigration.
(2009/06/27)
I have lived in Crescent Valley since 1976 on West Lane. Throughout those years there have been many meetings and discussions about annexing to the city for the perceived advantage of hooking up to the city sewer system. In every situation, the plan did not develop due to the large cost individual home owners would have to pay.
(2009/06/25)
As Independence Day approaches, my thoughts turn to the extraordinary courage of our Founding Fathers who, along with only a handful of their neighbors, decided to fight against the tyranny of an oppressive government and declare their independence.
(2009/06/25)
Twenty thousand dollars for a three-hour arm surgery, $2,000 for an MRI, $500 for taking out a small sliver — and all the while Tribune editorials, our local representatives, the CEOs of local hospitals keep telling us over and over again about the “low-cost, quality care” we receive in western Wisconsin ... priceless!
(2009/06/24)
There seems to be a problem in how our convicted law-breaking people are treated. Some think we should treat these drug dealers, thieves, etc., with kid gloves, and it’s too cold here for them to spend time in a tent.
(2009/06/24)
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13
(2009/06/24)
Did The Associated Press protest too late? This question occurred to me as I read “Done In Secret -- Legislature made many decisions away from public.” That headline was the Tribune’s top story June 15.
(2009/06/23)
Old “tax-and-spend” Shilling is at it again. Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jennifer Shilling, D-La Crosse, wants to add an additional tax of 4 cents per gallon to gasoline. Just what the driving public of this state needs! More money, at the pump, for gas, which is already priced too high. Every day gas prices go up two or three cents the way it is!
(2009/06/23)
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is taking over the management of Wisconsin’s private forests and micro-managing them from Madison. In the 28 years that I have owned my 160-acre tree farm, we have had a very low tax rate for opening our land to the public.
(2009/06/23)
This letter is in regards to recent vandalism at Woodlawn Cemetery on Mormon Coulee Road. Two large urns were stolen from my parents’ graves. They sat there for 40 years until you decided to steal them. Whoever you are, I hope you enjoy them, knowing they were stolen from a gravesite. The cost to replace them is $80, which is a lot of money for me. So if you want to do the right thing, either return them to the cemetery or send the money to me in care of the Tribune. And I won’t hold my breath waiting for you to do the right thing. Thank you.
(2009/06/23)
To the fan of Joe Arpaio: Sheriff Joe, as he is called in the Phoenix area, is nothing but a bigot and violator of people's civil rights. His tactics will do nothing to reduce jail overcrowding. Try a tent city here in Wisconsin in 30-below weather. You should be on the receiving end of your suggestions. And I hope when the FBI and Justice Department get through with Arpaio, he will be a resident of his own tent city.
(2009/06/22)
About 1933 we learned the power company would be putting a power line past our farm home. Then we learned it could take three years for the power line to come, so that families in our area would have time to wire their buildings.
(2009/06/21)
I read June 12 “Our View,” the editorial about the big oil tax that’s not really a tax. The view of typical liberal Democrats.
(2009/06/21)
The U.S. Supreme Court recently voted 5-4 against West Virginia Supreme Court Justice Brent Benjamin. Benjamin twice voted to throw out a $50 million verdict against Massey Energy, one of the state’s biggest coal companies, rather than recuse himself from a case involving his major campaign supporter. Massey chief executive Don Blankenship spent an astronomical $3 million to help Benjamin get elected to the state’s top court.
(2009/06/21)
I have been reading articles about binge drinking.
(2009/06/21)
In typical leftist form, Vicki Burke penned a letter to the editor that appeared June 12, criticizing Wisconsin Sen. Dan Kapanke for holding an economic forum.
(2009/06/21)
After this year’s Memorial Day parade in La Crosse, I found dozens of small American flags thrown in street gutters. American flags should be treated with respect. They are not toys. A lot of veterans died for the flag so we can enjoy our freedoms in the United States.
(2009/06/20)
The American Clean Energy and Security Act will face a full House vote next week. This legislation is vital to building America’s clean energy future, which will create jobs, cut our dependence on oil and reduce the carbon pollution that causes global warming. It is becoming more and more clear how important how interrelated these issues are. It is also becoming evident that, to a large extent, they are responsible for the economic and environmental crises we face.
(2009/06/20)
I think that it is wonderful that taxpayers can afford to build a new bus depot in La Crosse for the 400 people that ride the MTU. It also is wonderful that we can build a new jail for our stormtrooper police force to throw people into for any crime under the sun. Keep cutting Park and Rec programs and city employees hours, because our youths and families don’t need these programs or income.
(2009/06/20)
I believe the health care system needs to be overhauled. I think that Social Security should be made into a single payer system as a major medical provider and everyone is covered. Your deductible will depend on whether you smoke or not. Employers can offer plans to cover those deductibles. Those younger than 18, still in school or older than 65 will not have deductibles. People older than 50 or so who are depending on Social Security for retirement will still get it. Those younger than 50 will need to get going on other investments.
(2009/06/20)
Re: James E. Becher’s letter to the editor about unrealistic local wind siting ordinances (June 9 Tribune):
(2009/06/20)
I am not surprised at all to see you on the top 10 list of cities. I have always felt that way about you. You are everything stated in U.S. News and World Report and much more. Your many assets include your residents. Some are friends I have made in the past and others are new ones I hope to make in the future.
(2009/06/20)
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives, including Rep. Ron Kind, D-La Crosse, agreed on spending billions they do not have. This “emergency” spending bill spends 15 percent more than the president requested, which is $9 billion more than in the original House bill and $14.6 billion more than the original Senate version. Included in this final version is $106 billion to continue the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, which Kind supposedly opposes, except, as the Capital Times has observed, “when it matters most he almost always takes the wrong side.”
(2009/06/20)
This is no current issue, but it is an issue. Jail overcrowding, why can’t we do like Joe Arpaio does in Arizona: have a tent city? It is cheaper in cost. People might think it is cruel, but it is not. He is right about his slogan: “If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.” There would be less crowding. People would not want to come back.
(2009/06/20)
It’s being claimed that health care costs will be the biggest problem we face.
(2009/06/20)
Thank you, La Crosse Tribune for the Hometown cover, page C-1, on Sunday, June 14. It warmed my heart on that bright Sunday morning.
(2009/06/18)
It’s time to do something about drunken drivers. But first let’s not repeat the stupid, expensive mistakes of the past.
(2009/06/17)
As Congress prepares for the appropriations season, our representatives will vote on the important programs our country invests in.
(2009/06/17)
The United States cannot sustain the role of policeman of the world forever. Put another way, we need to stop our imperialistic policy of trampling all over the rest of the world on behalf of major corporations greedy for yet more profiteering. Stop the madness and vote against H.R. 2346. We cannot bail out foreign banks and continue all these wars. Bring the troops home now.
(2009/06/17)
An event called Freedom Fest is to happen Saturday. According to the Web site, the presenting sponsor will be Logistics Health Inc. It states there will be various fundraising events to raise money for the Veterans Hall of Honor and veterans scholarships. There will be performances by color guards, singers and a motorcycle ride to honor veterans. This is all very commendable and it will in all regards, except one, be an honorable and righteous tribute for all veterans.
(2009/06/16)
Democrats tax on “Big Oil” is really a tax on everyone who buys fuel. All of us will now be paying 4 cents more per gallon of gas. This tax will raise about $250 million every two years.
(2009/06/16)
Cheap Shots? It sounds like Ron Malzer wouldn’t recognize a cheap shot if it bit him (“Enough of the anti-Obama cheap shots,” Monday Tribune). Whether anyone likes it or not, the era of cheap shots was the past eight years.
(2009/06/16)
This is in response to Ron Malzer’s letter, “Enough of the anti-Obama cheap shots.”
(2009/06/15)
Letters published by the Tribune in the past week against aspects of our immigration situation cannot go unanswered. Realism must guide our legislators in restructuring a new set of laws. It is heartening to learn that a broad coalition of labor and faith-based groups is committed to a Comprehensive Immigration Reform that would guarantee our economic viability while continuing America’s commitment to justice and fairness.
(2009/06/15)
Many letters have been written recently bashing Christians or the Book upon which they base their faith. In all honesty, we probably deserve some of the criticism. At times, we can be too quick to pounce on the sins of others while glossing lightly over our own. If we’re people who believe the Book, we should try to live by the Book. Realistically, we’re just saved sinners who are part of God’s reclamation project.
(2009/06/15)
It’s clear that for children to thrive — physically as well as emotionally and economically — safe and affordable housing is absolutely essential. Safe, affordable housing is integral to the creation of a comfortable environment that nurtures children, ensures their physical well-being and connects them with their communities. It is a key ingredient in the formula for future success. Without safe and affordable housing, families have trouble managing their daily lives, and their children’s safety, health, and development suffer.
(2009/06/15)
As the city council contemplates who to choose for the District 2 council seat (to be voted on July 9), please bear in mind:
(2009/06/15)
In the past week, we’ve heard a governor (Sarah Palin) accuse President Barack Obama of leading the country toward socialism, a U.S. senator (James Inhofe) call the President “un-American” and the minority leader of the U.S. House of Representatives (John Boehner) denounce “the Democrats’ plan to import terrorists into America.”
(2009/06/15)
It is time to get off the sidelines and to take action. Our state and federal representatives are out of control. We have seen in the past couple of years what power the government will grab when we sit on our hands and do nothing. They are elected to represent us. Do you feel that they represent you and your pocketbook? We cannot be silent any longer. It is time that we make them accountable.
(2009/06/15)
I am not writing to persuade others into my way of thinking, or to offend others, but simply correct some dangerous assumptions. A May 29 article in the Tribune headlined “Nurturing nonbelief” discusses a growing trend of nonreligious discussion groups for parents. While reading the article, I noticed how the article’s entire premise is built around an inaccurate view of faith and religion.
(2009/06/14)
In order to reassure the community of the beliefs of the Assemblies of God churches, I need to correct a mistake made by Marc Wehrs in his May 21 column about a local psychic who claimed to be a member of the Assemblies of God church. The psychic in question is not a member of and never was a member of the Assemblies of God. Upon speaking directly with the psychic she admitted to me that she in fact was not a member of any church.
(2009/06/14)
During eight years of the Bush administration, the Democrats, whether in the minority or majority, along with the liberal media condemned the president and his administration for any minor misspoken word or phrase. And woe be to them if they suggested a minor increase in the federal deficit after President Clinton supposedly balanced the budget.
(2009/06/13)
On June 5, Sen. Dan Kapanke held what he called an economic forum for the purpose of informing citizens about economic issues in the area. He began by telling the audience that it was not a political event. He had, however, paid for it from his campaign funds.
(2009/06/13)
So our wise Gov. Jim Doyle is going to issue illegal immigrants “special cards” that would allow them to drive. I wonder if he will issue “special cards” for legal residents to smoke? Or how about a “get out of jail free card” as a prize in the Wisconsin lottery? Cool.
(2009/06/13)
Wisconsin faces a major financial crisis that is easily solved.
(2009/06/13)
The world seems to be in turmoil. So much division on right and wrong. Baby killing, homosexuality and heterosexuality, and violence are all symptoms of the problem.
(2009/06/13)
Here we go again: Oil and gas prices are rising on speculation, not on actuality.
(2009/06/13)
I was very concerned about the Tribune on June 6, 2009. This was a very historic day in the history of the United States, a day on which thousands of American soldiers gave their Iives. Yet you did not give one word of this day in your entire paper with the exception of Snoopy going ashore under enemy fire. Thank you Charles Schulz. I might add that this same cartoon strip is published each year at this date.
(2009/06/13)
At the April 14 Campbell Town Board meeting, Chairman Scott Johnson was asked why we hired an attorney from Madison when we already pay a town attorney from Johns Flaherty & Collins.
(2009/06/13)
It seems both Republicans and Democrats agree that the private health insurance industry should continue to control what health care we can afford.
(2009/06/13)
If we were living an immoral lifestyle, Grandfather could say that he didn’t approve and we would not get upset. Grandmother could also say that she did not approve of our immorality and we would not get upset.
(2009/06/11)
Forty-six million Americans are uninsured, and that number growing daily in this economy. Families and businesses need a solution to the health care crisis sooner, not later. Premiums are going up four times faster than wages, and half of all personal bankruptcies are because of medical expenses.
(2009/06/11)
This letter is in response to “UW-L plans to cut baseball, tennis” (Saturday Tribune).
(2009/06/11)
Don’t you just hate it when truth comes along and wrecks a really good rumor? A recent example is the one about how those darn socialist liberals are going to take away our right to own a gun.
(2009/06/10)
The tragic death of Dane County highway worker James Porter, 61, on Thursday serves as a reminder to all motorists to pay attention when approaching and driving through work zones.
(2009/06/10)
State Rep. Jennifer Shilling deserves applause for her progressive work to establish a Patient Centered Medical Home pilot program in Wisconsin. The PCMH concept — through a physician-guided medical practice — uses a patient-focused team approach emphasizing prevention and wellness. The result reduces overall health care costs by integrating health care services, improving health care outcomes, reducing complications and eliminating unnecessary care. The Patient Centered Medical Home is an innovative and successful health care delivery model that is taking hold in many forward-thinking states.
(2009/06/10)
Dennis Miller’s letter (Monday Tribune) “College Tuition for Illegals?” captures the feelings of many people who want to see meaningful and fair immigration policy. What does one say to the person who has waited patiently for years for his or her chance to immigrate legally to the U.S. only to see others cut in line? Anything that rewards illegal behavior, such as college tuition or driver’s licenses, most certainly should not be considered. When politicians promote these schemes, they are usually just trolling for votes by currying favor with constituent groups.
(2009/06/09)
Former Vice President Dick Cheney is now publicly admitting that the United States has tortured people but that it was done with good motives and got great results. The only problem with his rationale is that torture is illegal.
(2009/06/09)
In the early morning hours of May 29, the Wisconsin Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee passed a budget crafted late at night and largely behind closed doors. This budget included tax increases, trims in state aid and millions in pork projects. Not largely published is the elimination of the qualified economic offer, or QEO.
(2009/06/09)
The situation here at Ridgeville, town of Wilton, Monroe County Wis., is a prime example why the state needs to overrule these unrealistic ordinances with normal setbacks (500 feet property line dwelling to 1,000 feet, no greater) allowing a wind farm here in Monroe County.
(2009/06/08)
This is in response to the story headlined “Officials advise coding emergency contacts into cell phones” (May 22, Tribune Hometown section).
(2009/06/08)
Curt Trnka’s May 23 column on thanking war veterans raised some interesting points. As he mentioned that World War II veterans are a dying breed, I wondered how an ancient mariner would thank younger veterans.
(2009/06/08)
A recent news story indicated that Gov. Jim Doyle was planning to offer in-state college tuition to illegal immigrants. The same story gave estimates of 400 to 650 illegals currently in Wisconsin’s high schools.
(2009/06/08)
In response to Loren Molling’s letter (May 28 Tribune, “Get facts right about Ron Kind”): My letter (May 23, Tribune, “The unkind Kind”) contained no factual errors. Ron Kind did vote for the final ’09 budget bill and also voted for the ’09 stimulus bill. Both of these bills increased the budget deficit by trillions of dollars. To try to portray Kind as a fiscal conservative given these votes would be funny if the consequences were not so dire.
(2009/06/07)
We found disturbing John Whitehead’s recent column about evolution in one of River Valley Newspapers’ weeklies.
(2009/06/06)
In a recent column, Ryan Stotts wrote that “Autumn Leitzke’s teacher was wrong. She is special.”
(2009/06/06)
How much did the president’s date in New York cost?
(2009/06/06)
A health issue that we are hearing about recently is the swine flu invasion/epidemic. The little bug has a way of getting around ... so it seems. And now the “little bug” is causing havoc right here in the U.S., having killed a handful of people.
(2009/06/06)
Recent letters have revolved around politics, the Bible and Christianity (May 28 Tribune) in which Sam Wood wants to politicize Bible-based Christian-ity and disparage some adherents as sending mixed messages.
(2009/06/06)
A few days ago you printed a letter about the Salvation Army receiving county funds. The writer was concerned because the Salvation Army preaches the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Salvation Army is a church and has been for over 100 years. Its mission has always been to help people, body, mind and soul. They are the only organization in La Crosse County that receives folks who need help. They feed, clothe, counsel, give a bed and help financially. Yes, they will give you a Bible if you want one. They will invite you to their church service. They would be pleased if folks would make Jesus Lord of their life. But that is totally up to the individual.
(2009/06/04)
American soldiers abuse female and male Iraqi prisoners, and many bloggers defend it, saying they would do it to us. A doctor is shot and killed at church because he performs legal abortions, and Fox News and others justify it and even celebrate it. A store clerk who rightfully defends himself by shooting a teenage robber in the head returns after he is safe and pumps five more bullets into the unconscious person, and the local community celebrates it. Wall Street fraud costs retirees billions of dollars, and yet we bail out those same firms. LeBron James refuses to shake hands after his loss because he hates losing, and he says, “Why shake a person’s hand who beat you.” Danika Patrick tells us that taking illegal performance enhancing drugs is only cheating if you get caught. Is this the new American morality?
(2009/06/04)
The letter “Reasoned morality” on the June 1 Opinion Page is based on flawed logic.
(2009/06/03)
I have lived in the La Crosse area for more than 30 years, but it took a nudge from my Fargo, N.D., sister to say, “Show me something unique in Wisconsin,” to get out and look at my own backyard. We went on two amazing day trips.
(2009/06/02)
I was very disappointed and discouraged to read the front page article in Tuesday’s Tribune about the pressure being placed on the La Crosse Corps of The Salvation Army. People like Hank Zumach really need to quit pushing their own agendas at the cost of hurting many others.
(2009/06/02)
Once again, La Crosse is being attacked by a separist group. Americans United for Separation of Church and State is now focusing its ridiculous whining on our Salvation Army. Our Salvation Army, which has fed, clothed, sheltered, and helped so many people (Christian or otherwise) over the years is now in this group’s crosshairs. Where or when will this harassment end?
(2009/06/02)
I’m writing in response to Sam Wood’s letter to the editor claiming that John Ewers and I have contradicting ideas of how to approach stories found in different books of the Bible (Thursday Tribune).
(2009/06/02)
Sam Wood seems to think that just because two groups of people within the same religion can’t agree completely that this somehow “illustrates one of the fundamental reasons Bible-based Christianity should not be the basis for organizing our society” (Thursday Tribune).
(2009/06/02)
The Tribune’s take on the smoke ban is hard to swallow for some of us. (“Goodbye to smoke.”)
(2009/06/01)
One month after the Iowa Supreme Court decided that the denial of marriage rights to same sex couples was unconstitutional, I looked through letters written to the editor of the Tribune on this issue, and saw nearly two dozen. Many of these argue positions from a religious viewpoint. Many people hold very strong religious beliefs that gay marriage should not be permitted.
(2009/06/01)
Recent articles and letters in the Tribune have left me wondering about our moral status in general.
(2009/06/01)
Nowhere in the dictionary definition of morals does it make mention of religion. Being an atheist doesn’t preclude me from being a moral person; instead, it has allowed me to develop a sense of morality based upon a reasoned assessment of actions that is reflective of their merit.
(2009/06/01)
It’s too bad Frank Kaufmann is no longer around to pay the projected short fall in revenue for the golf course. I remember how hard he worked to wrestle the course away from the
(2009/05/31)
This is an open letter to tenants, homeowners, landlords, and other business and property owners of the lower North Side. My intention is not to confront any particular block or area. Rather, my intent is to challenge municipal officials (both elected and hired), property owners and neighbors to cooperate to provide a sound and proactive solution to revitalizing the lower North Side. During the mayoral primary campaign, Mayor Matt Harter responded to this issue via e-mail by stating, “We have to increase the number of home ownership in that area.” He’s right. Now it’s time to find a sensible way to do this.
(2009/05/31)
Recent smart-aleck letters to the editor by Diane Brueggen (“Evolution should provide comebacks,” Friday Tribune) and Daryl Schlesser (“Monkey business,” Tuesdsay Tribune) demonstrate remarkable ignorance of the fundamentals of evolution theory and of the rational approach to understanding, explaining and predicting processes of the natural world. Brueggen’s letter also displays a cynical insensitivity to the plight of animals brought to the brink of extinction by reckless human activity.
(2009/05/31)
Diane Brueggen asks why we are so concerned about endangered species. We are a species.
(2009/05/31)
As a pharmacist, I am eager to join with President Barack Obama and Congress in their efforts to bring accessible, quality and affordable health care to every American.
(2009/05/30)
If the theory of evolution is such an exact science, why are we so concerned about endangered species? Oh, Look! I think I just saw a dodo bird.
(2009/05/30)
Regarding the article on the Salvation Army, the service they provide is wonderful. Just think what would happen without their service to our community. Hank Zumach, maybe you would like to provide the same service at your home. How giving of you: You think people’s rights are being violated. Not having food and shelter is also a violation. You are the kind of person who bites the hand that feeds you. What kind of service could you provide at $50,000? Thank God for the Salvation Army. Oops, I can’t say that. It might upset or offend someone, for heaven’s sake.
(2009/05/30)
The recent H1N1 outbreak was a field day for all kinds of Chicken Little opportunists. But animal rights activists continue to act as the pacesetters. Not only were the claims in Sheldon Miller’s recent letter wrongheaded, but it wasn’t even his own letter to begin with (“Vegan lifestyle solves many problems,” May 21).
(2009/05/30)
This letter is in support of the letter published May 17 that addressed the importance of recycling plastics so they don’t end up being burned in the Xcel incinerator. Burning plastics in the incinerator produces dioxin, which we all then consume from the food we eat and/or breath in on a regular basis. I do not think most people in La Crosse and in the surrounding areas realize that garbage is brought in from four states and 16 different counties to be burned at the Xcel incinerator on French Island. What is so alarming about this fact is that dioxin is one of the most toxic chemicals known to science. Dioxin is so toxic that it is measured in parts per trillion, and there is no known safe level. This means that every level will cause some type of ill effects on humans. Some of the known health effects include cancer, birth defects and immune abnormalities.
(2009/05/28)
Before Donald Schmidt unfairly attacks U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (“The unkind Kind,” May 22 Tribune), I thought it would be helpful if Schmidt got a few of his facts straight.
(2009/05/28)
I found amusing yet disheartening the contradictions in two seemingly like-minded letters from the May 26 Tribune. John Ewers (“Don’t use the Bible for wrong ends”) states, “Stop cherrypicking what you want and ignoring what you don’t like.” Mike Kamrowski (Bible satire was lame, insulting) states, “Some books are meant to be literal interpretations ... (w)hile others are written as parables and poetry and are meant not to be taken literally.”
(2009/05/27)
Michael Shaw believes that we as a society should not use the Bible to regulate human behavior (Your Views, May 19 Tribune). Fine, let’s repeal the law on murder (thou shalt not kill). Next we can repeal stealing. How about prostitution (setting your wife aside and lying down with another).
(2009/05/27)
To Kathleen Parker: If the theory of evolution is such an exact science, how come there are so many onkeys left?
(2009/05/27)
I’m writing in response to Jeremy Fejfar’s obviously sarcastic criticism of people of faith, in particular Jews and Christians. The mock letter “Stop lying to us, scientists!” (Your Views, May 22 Tribune) paints people of faith, particularly those of us who believe in the words of the Holy Bible, as idiots.
(2009/05/27)
Let’s see, a Christian can be called a stupid, hateful, intolerant, closed-minded, ignorant, dumb bigot. Why? For daring to quote from the Bible that the gay lifestyle is sin. Think about that. Who is being intolerant and hateful?
(2009/05/27)
Thomas Neubauer (Your Views, May 19) posed four questions: Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Is he able, but not willing? Is he both able and willing? Is he neither able nor willing?
(2009/05/27)
Repeat offenders — jail them or not? Are treatment programs for repeat offenders effective? Can we save tax dollars and also keep our cities safe? What role do costs play in corrections policy anyway? What do you think?
(2009/05/27)
There have been no oil spills. Home heating is down now or completely done with. U.S. citizens are still looking for ways to save on energy in all areas of their lives. It obviously has nothing to do with demand and supply.
(2009/05/27)
The 2009 legislative session was particularly difficult for hospitals because of proposals for massive cuts to hospital reimbursement as well as elimination of the General Assistance Medical Care program, which funds health care for the poor and disabled.
(2009/05/24)
In her syndicated column on torture (May 18 Tribune) Kathleen Parker incorrectly attributes language from a 2002 Justice Department memorandum to a 1994 federal statute prohibiting torture. This is a serious oversight, since the statute is still in effect and the memorandum, which raised a storm of criticism, was repudiated by the Justice Department. Torture, according to the discredited memorandum, required that pain be “equivalent in intensity to the pain accompanying serious physical injury, such as organ failure, impairment of bodily function, or even death.” The statutory definition of torture (U.S. Code Section 2340) simply requires that pain or suffering be severe.
(2009/05/24)
With our current economic challenges, Wisconsinites can have hope in the potential to repower Wisconsin and revitalize our economy with clean energy. By investing in clean energy like wind and solar power, and using energy more wisely, we can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, create jobs and protect our environment for future generations.
(2009/05/24)
Helen and Thomas Neubauer both made some wrong assumptions in their letters to the editor in Tuesday’s Tribune.
(2009/05/24)
When my grandfather died in 1964, they were cleaning out his desk drawer and found an old cigar box. On the masking tape label on the top of the box it read “string, too short to use.” How does a man look at a string, decide it is too short for use, and still not throw it away?
(2009/05/23)
It appears that our Congress has passed another worthless piece of legislation. Where is the protection from abuse by the credit card companies? Where is the reasonable cap on interest that can be charged? How can we give them money to bail them out and then they just return to their former greed-driven policies with the blessing of our Congress? This is shameful and a sham.
(2009/05/23)
Thank you, David Eisner, for your letter exposing the lies of evil-ution. However, you didn’t go far enough. Scientists also lie by saying the earth is a spheroid, 4.5 billion years old, revolving around the sun at 66,660 miles an hour. Since the Bible says the Earth is a flat circle, 6,000 to 10,000 years old that sits on pillars and doesn’t move, we know that science is WRONG. The Bible is the inerrant word of God. We know it’s inerrant because the Bible says so. Got it, scientists?
(2009/05/23)
On June 4, Don Hultman retires as the complex manager of the Upper Mississippi River Refuge. Don’s retirement brings to an end a remarkable period in the management of this special refuge.
(2009/05/23)
During debates over the years, U.S. Rep. Ron Kind has always been professional and courteous. However, his voting record, including his most recent vote for the ’09 budget is unkind -- unkind to your children and grandchildren since it has resulted in a projected budget deficit of almost $4 trillion. For those who need a little math primer, that is equivalent to almost $2 million a day since the birth of Christ.
(2009/05/21)
Recently there have been many letters written about gay marriage from Christian and non-Christian viewpoints. I would like to reply to two of the letters in Tuesday’s Tribune.
(2009/05/21)
Might there be a relationship between the depth of knowledge exhibited and the stand taken on the issue of gay marriage?
(2009/05/21)
The May 19 letter from Vince Hatt regarding President Barack Obama’s appearance at the University of Notre Dame contains multiple misrepresentations.
(2009/05/21)
The stark contrast between our frenzied reaction to unfamiliar hazards and our reckless tolerance of familiar ones never ceases to amaze me.
(2009/05/20)
Some sublimely beautiful acts by wonderful human beings too easily slip under our radar when they become routine.
(2009/05/19)
What’s the big fuss about using torture in warfare? Ideally, both sides in a conflict should play by the same rules, but we know that our enemies in the war on terror make up their own rules as they go along. If we restrict our own troops with sanctimonious rules and the other team plays without rules, we’re going to lose the war on terror. The terrorists have no qualms about using children and retarded citizens as suicide bombers. And we here in the U.S. should recoil at the use of waterboarding?
(2009/05/19)
Genoa It is time for the United States to address our recent shameful history of officially sanctioned and instutitionalized torture. Not only has this policy been a betrayal of no-torture policies since the days of Gen. George Washington; it has also served to malign and undermine our national reputation around the world and provided an emotional recruiting hook for terrorist organizations.
(2009/05/19)
La Crosse In reference to Dolly Wolfe’s letter (Sunday Tribune): Lady, no offense, but please get off your religious bandwagon. It’s fine if you don’t believe in civil rights for same-sex couples, but your beliefs don’t make you more of a Christian than someone who believes in civil rights for same-sex couples.
(2009/05/19)
La Crosse To all of you Christians out there who want to use the Bible and your religious beliefs to regulate my right to marry the person I love and to legally share property, health care benefits and other rights afforded to married couples, I would like to say a few things.
(2009/05/19)
Coon Valley What can I say about Dolly Wolfe’s letter but that Fred Phelps wants his sign back.
(2009/05/19)
Coon Valley As usual, I am sadly amused by the intolerance and hypocrisy that flows from the pens (or should I say keyboard) of some people who call themselves “Christians.”
(2009/05/19)
La Crosse As a pro-life Notre Dame alumnus who voted for Barack Obama, I have found observing both the bishops of the United States and the Vatican to be extremely interesting this past month.
(2009/05/19)
Prairie du Chien The state of Wisconsin is facing a huge budget deficit that has forced Gov. Jim Doyle to make a rash of cutbacks. The cutbacks include cutting school funding, cutting public safety projects, state worker layoffs and many more deep cuts.
(2009/05/18)
Our community recently was host to the first La Crosse Fitness Festival. The festival included a fitness expo, children’s events, a cycling criterium and running races. I participated in many of these events and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate everyone who was involved. The organization of the events I witnessed were excellent. The sponsors and volunteers selflessly gave their time and resources to make this a great weekend for all who participated. The city and the police department did a great job with the courses and managing traffic. And the spectators were out in force to support the racers.
(2009/05/17)
I used to be proud of our newspaper — not anymore.
(2009/05/17)
Because of your gift of life for the babies you carried and were not able to care for, we were privileged to adopt four beautiful children. They are now fine happy adults and raising their families. We also are blessed to have an adopted granddaughter. Without your sacrifice and dedication to life, we would not have known this very special gift of parenthood. Please know that your generous and unselfish gift of life given to all adopted children the opportunity that would have been denied if all of you had not made the right choice. We thank you and may you be blessed in your lives knowing that your love above self has not been forgotten.
(2009/05/17)
We are encouraged by the recent recommendation by the Common Council on the Strategic Plan for Sustainability and strongly support its adoption.
(2009/05/17)
I’m getting pretty tired of all the debate over waterboarding and what we should do about it. The debate has been going on forever, and as I went back and forth between news channels the other night, those channels are covering nothing but that issue. Let’s apply the KISS principle here. (Keep it simple, stupid.)
(2009/05/16)
I submitted the following to U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl: I just heard that the Senate rejected the long overdue effort to rein in usurous credit card company interest rate limits. How did you vote on that issue?
(2009/05/16)
In comments given to the Tribune regarding an article on the extension of Wisconsin’s health care program to include many more uninsured children, Rep. Mike Huebsch indicated he was bothered by this expenditure of state tax money. In a guest editorial on April 9, Huebsch expressed his pique about the fact that, among other things, the approximately 60 percent of corporations that previously paid NO state income taxes due to loopholes kindly provided by him and fellow Republicans were now going to have to pay taxes since the Democrats closed those loop- holes. He, of course, phrased it so it sounded like a general tax hike.
(2009/05/16)
Early in the Iraq business we did some stupid stuff with prison inmates. We caught the servicemen involved dealt with it. Now some White House people want to release hundreds of photos from that mess—and for what? To stir up some political scandal.
(2009/05/16)
May is recognized as National Foster Care Awareness Month. It is a time when we can salute the amazing children in foster care and the compassionate people who make a difference by serving as foster parents, relative caregivers, mentors, advocates, social workers and volunteers. Thanks to these unsung heroes, many formerly abused or neglected children and teens will either safely reunite with their parents, be cared for by relatives, or adopted by loving families and provided with a safe, loving home in the meantime.
(2009/05/16)
My congregation has been “ribbing” me over Kathleen Parker’s column of late, wondering how we had collaborated. I had just given a sermon making the exact same points. They gave us both a hearty “Amen!”
(2009/05/14)
“Darwin meets faith … and both survive” (Tuesday’s Tribune) is much in error. Darwin began with faith, but the more immersed in the philosophy of evolution, the more faith he lost.
(2009/05/14)
It appears that our Congress is bought, paid for and controlled by the insurance and big pharma industries when it comes to health care legislation. How can single-payer health care as an approach to funding health care be excluded from discussion in a democracy? It would appear we don’t have a democracy, but a government controlled by corporations, something called fascism. We need to clean house, and institute public financing of elections if we hope to return this republic to a democracy.
(2009/05/12)
The words to the beautiful American patriotic song, “God Bless America,” written by Irving Berlin in 1918 about the “land that I love,” is seen in the nature around us in America.
(2009/05/12)
Repeating past mistakes has long been a part of Washington’s energy policy, but Congress used to wait a while before making the same blunder again. Not anymore. New legislation requiring wind energy closely resembles the ethanol mandate that sparked a backlash just last year.
(2009/05/10)
In just 100 days, President Barack Obama has successfully begun to turn this country around, delivering on his promises to correct our energy, educational and health needs.
(2009/05/10)
The state of Wisconsin’s Joint Finance Committee is considering Gov. Jim Doyle’s proposed budget. That budget proposes cuts in funding that can drastically affect the ability of the County of La Crosse to function on behalf of its citizens.
(2009/05/10)
Whether the Bush administration’s use of “enhanced or extreme interrogation” methods amounts to torture should be legally decided by an independent investigation and trial(s) either in this country or elsewhere. If sufficient evidence is obtained, it is quite possible that President G.W. Bush along with others could be found guilty of torture.
(2009/05/09)
It is imperative that La Crosse keeps the RSVP Driver Escort Service available to those of us who cannot take other bus service in the city.
(2009/05/09)
I found it very interesting to read in the Monday Tribune that more than 20 schools in Milwaukee had closed due to the swine flu and that 2,000 students in grades four, five and six from 38 schools will be competing in a ballroom dance competition in Milwaukee. Does swine flu spread more easily in schools than at a dance?
(2009/05/09)
I have been concerned for some time about proposals to allow concentrated animal feeding operations, or CAFOs, to set up shop in Crawford and Vernon Counties.
(2009/05/09)
Thank you for running the Iowa marriage article on the front page of the April 26 paper. Gay marriage has become the civil and human rights movement of this decade. Too often the debate is dominated by people who believe their personal religious beliefs are justification for denying individuals the right to marry the person they love. Moreover, they do not speak for all Christians. I am a Christian, and I could not disagree more with their opinion. Marriage is a special kind of social and legal relationship that is provided when you apply for a marriage license from your county clerks office. These licenses are not issued by churches. Marriage and the rights and responsibilities that come with it are not religious institutions. The debate is not about taking someone’s religious freedoms away, it is allowing everyone to have the same rights, privileges and responsibilities. When it becomes legal in Wisconsin, people who do not believe in gay marriage for religious reasons will still be allowed to have that personal belief.
(2009/05/09)
Same sex unions are a civil rights matter similar to laws that had barred interracial marriage years ago. Interracial couples endured the same hurtful excuses we hear today as a rationale for barring same sex unions: that it is a sin, that it is hurtful to children, that it will destroy the tradition of marriage.
(2009/05/07)
Please don’t allow one Christian’s voice to represent all Christians. The word “Christianity” already has enough stigma attached to it. Priests have molested, armies have decimated, and La Crosse citizens have been bigoted, all while invoking Christ.
(2009/05/07)
Given Ramona Gonzalez’s desire not be on the local bench and with announcement of Justice David Souter retiring from the Supreme Court, the obvious question has to be “has Judge Gonzalez sent her resume to the White House yet?”
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