Letters to the editor - April 18
Capitalist dinosaurs
Senator Taylor (R-SD6) of Polson, recently wrung her hands about creating jobs in Montana. But when Democrats proposed job-creating bills for Montanans, Republicans shot them down. And according to Senator Taylor, government jobs don’t count – we have to pay for them – duh. Are there any jobs we don’t pay for? Suggest to a Republican that we can re-cover thousands of jobs that Americans lost overseas by having companies bring them back or by curtailing huge corporate profits and have them return profits for jobs/benefits, and the hair goes up on the back of their heads.
Last week Senator Taylor lamented the fact that the state doesn’t have enough money to fund all the important infrastructure activities such as schools, roads, etc. Yet when a common-sense bill to reduce a big tax-break given to oil companies at the expense of Montana citizens (the holiday tax), thus bringing millions to state coffers was offered, Republicans rejected it. Still, they have no trouble spending state money to support private religious schools that benefit the few. Does the word hypocritical come to mind? To me the problem is both the economic system and its political backers.
Capitalism is a self-destructive economic system that goes against religious teachings worldwide. Why? Because it selfishly builds on a foundation of more and more exploitation, more and more destruction of the earth’s ecosystems for the benefit of the few. Republicans have only one answer to the jobs/monetary situation in Montana - exploit more resources – trees, oil, coal, minerals, people, water, whatever is still out there. The fact is there is no long-term solution to job problems and monetary shortages under capitalism. Not when the whole enchilada is for individuals and private corporations to accumulate all the wealth/capital at the expense of the commons – and that is the goal of capitalism! Fortunately some economists have moved ‘outside of the box’ in their thinking. Our future rests with them, not the capitalist dinosaurs who currently control the Montana legislature.
Kirwin Werner
Ronan
Grateful patient
I would like to take this time and express my appreciation for these very, very special individuals. They are Sharon Nunlist at Polson Physical Therapy, for her special abilities, effectiveness, precision in diagnosis, range of knowledge in back, neck and shoulder injuries, her patience and planning; D.C. Tom Konen for his special techniques, expertise, warm welcomes, and understanding; Polly Harriman, massage therapist, for her expertise, knowledge warm hands and a big heart; D.C. Jim Thornton at Mission Chiropractic for his expertise, professional manipulations, gentle and caring hands, and flexible schedule. You are all in a class of your own!
My pain and suffering was reduced tremendously because of all of your wonderful care during my recovery from injuries I sustained in a car accident in November of 2010.
You are all a true inspiration in the healing process for those who seek other alternatives. Your knowledge of the human anatomy and how the mind and body respond to injury and stress is impeccable.
Out of all my 47 years of residing on the reservation, I have never received, nor felt, such compassion from professionals and others who hold similar positions as I have from those listed above.
We are blessed to have your services available on the reservation. You are truly a gift to the valley. I gratefully acknowledge you.
Sharlene Peone Weinandy
Pablo
Referendum objection
Senator Janna Taylor in her April 11 2013 Lake County Leader column discussed the Legislators approval of referendum bills. She states, “These referendums will go to the people for a vote. How can anyone object to having the people decide?” Senator Taylor, I strongly object!!! This is a terrible way to govern and is your duty as a Legislator to analyze, research, listen to testimonies, and make sound decisions to vote for or against proposed legislation. In the case of these four referendum bills ( 2 house & 2 senate) you and your fellow Legislators (including Representative Greg Hertz) chose to pass these bills as referendums bills to avoid going to the Governor. Apparently the Legislature was concerned that the Governor would veto these four bills. If the Governor were to veto the bills, the Legislature can override the veto. But instead of doing their duty they punted and sent these issues to the voters. These referendums will appear on the November 2014 ballot.
This means that we the people will be asked to vote yes or no on Legislation that we know little about. We do not have the analysis, research, testimony and fiscal impact for all of the referendum bills. This is a terrible way to govern.
I urge votes to vote no on these referendums, in November 2014, regardless of the merit of the proposal as this is not a good way to govern. I know 2014 is a long way off, but I will remind us all again in 2014.
Kathy Farmer
Polson
Pasty pride
The Mission Valley United Methodist church would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who purchased pasties or helped with our project. We appreciate your participation as proceeds help us support mission needs in our area. It was a big success!
Monte Wunderlich,
Mission Valley UMW