ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Dec. 27, 2024
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Diann Wilson, Northeast side
I agree with much of what Hartman has to say, but I cannot support “I’m done with outrage. It’s not healthy or productive.â€
As Dylan Thomas said, “Do not go gentle into that good night.†I hope that all of us who are experiencing a similar reaction to the election results will rage, rage…
Diann Wilson
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Rex Witherspoon, SaddleBrooke
Here are some book ideas sure to please the MAGAs in your life:
No brains, no headaches, Marjorie Taylor Greene
I will only drink on days that end with "Y", Pete Hegseth
Hunting with your dog is a blast, Kristi Noem
Sex, drugs and hypocrisy, Matt Gaetz
Money doesn't care who owns it, Elon Musk
Diagonally parked in a parallel universe, Rudy Giuliani
Who needs vaccines that save lives? RFK
Killers, rapists, murderers, drug smugglers and hotel maids, Steven Miller
Living under Al-Assad's regime is a gas, Tulsi Gabbard.
Oligarchy, look for it in 2025, Donald Trump
Rex Witherspoon
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Kenneth Haber, Northwest side
I looked at the January calendar. I thought I was mistaken. The 3rd Monday in January is the MLK holiday. This year it falls on January 20. January 20 is the date the incoming felon is scheduled for inauguration. Celebrating the birthday of perhaps the most significant civil and human rights advocate this country has produced on the same day that this country's leading misogynist, bigot, liar and felon takes office is a horror. I am certain MLK would be appalled. Time to re-read "I have a dream" and hope.
Kenneth Haber
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Deborah Nelson, SaddleBrooke
So, the angry, senile puppet currently occupying the White House, or his handlers, have commuted death sentences for 37 federal prisoners. These criminals have been convicted of the most heinous crimes, including raping and murdering children, by juries of their peers. For self-serving reasons he left three to their fate.
He doesn’t believe in the death penalty for these violent criminals, but he’s 100% behind killing hundreds of thousands of innocent babies in the womb.
How do you on the left justify that?
Deborah Nelson
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- James Tuthill, Oro Valley
I’ve been reading for several years the criticisms and attacks on Senator Sinema. Many focused on her opposition to eliminating the filibuster. Senator Schumer, cheered on by the far left, promised to eliminate it if he could. Is he eating crow now?
Remember that old adage: Be careful what you wish for? Where would we -- and all you Sinema detractors -- be if the filibuster had been eliminated? Just as it has prevented some extreme left positions from being enacted, it hopefully will prevent extreme right positions being adopted. How would you like a national prohibition on abortion?
Senator Sinema was correct to praise the filibuster in her farewell remarks. It prevents extreme positions from both parties and encourages compromise. That’s what I support. And I’m glad the filibuster remains in place, and I will oppose Republican attempts to remove it too.
James Tuthill
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
The terrible Trump conspiracy warrants little shafts of ridicule against well-deserved targets that highlight MAGA’s crudeness, meanness, and the poverty of their thought.
The whole motley bunch deserves to be mocked and laughed at for their fruitcake pretensions of making America great by tearing down whatever is fine and decent and leaving behind a troubled state of mind for the rest of us.
For now, lies aplenty and intimidation are playing well with Trump’s approval. But when his unrestrained followers and the millions of his mistaken voters discovered that while they were giving voice praising our symbol of freedom, the Eagle, our next president was busy plucking the Golden Goose.
In time there may be another march on Washington, but this time it will be the unions, the farmers, the middle class, and anyone else who feels aggrieved by Trump and his out-of-control regime.
So, our best offense here is ridicule, wit, and satire. Anger is a dud. Arguing is a loser. Try humor.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Calendar mistake
I looked at the January calendar. I thought I was mistaken. The 3rd Monday in January is the MLK holiday. This year it falls on January 20. January 20 is the date the incoming felon is scheduled for inauguration. Celebrating the birthday of perhaps the most significant civil and human rights advocate this country has produced on the same day that this country’s leading misogynist, bigot, liar and felon takes office is a horror. I am certain MLK would be appalled. Time to re-read “I have a dream†and hope.
Kenneth Haber
Northwest side
Panhandlers — poor people
I read two letters to the editor in Saturday’s edition of the Star. The first was “Panhandlers†describing a traffic eyesore — poor people. When I pass a person with a sign for help I wonder what in their life brought them to this point. I ask God to bless that person.
I might have been considered poor when growing up. Our family did not have a large bank account but we had love immeasurable, owned our home, attended good public schools, and attended church each Sunday where the love of God available to all was proclaimed.
The second article was “Poverty Cycle starts with children.†The writer gave excellent steps that we must take in order to break the cycle of poverty.
One article showed disdain for the poor, the other caring and concern. What can I do for the poor? There are funds to which we can contribute to help the poor. Let this be considered in our Christmas and yearly giving.
Mercedese Bartlett
Midtown
Thank you, Camille Guice
I read with enthusiastic agreement to Camille Guice’s recent letter regarding the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ state reporting information on abortions. She makes an excellent and intelligent point that statistics on men’s vasectomies should also be in this report. She also listed the questions that should be asked of men prior to their vasectomy. If we are documenting women’s health in this way, then we have the right to have statistics of men’s sexual health. Gov. Katie Hobbs is calling for legislators to repeal the state law that requires an annual abortion report, saying that it infringes on patients’ privacy. The governor also pointed out that no other medical procedure has this same type of reporting. We need to keep the pressure on our legislators for this change to be made.
Sharon Winderl
Midtown
Biden’s parting shame
So, the angry, senile puppet currently occupying the White House, or his handlers, have commuted death sentences for 37 federal prisoners. These criminals have been convicted of the most heinous crimes, including raping and murdering children, by juries of their peers. For self-serving reasons he left three to their fate.
He doesn’t believe in the death penalty for these violent criminals, but he’s 100% behind killing hundreds of thousands of innocent babies in the womb.
How do you on the left justify that?
Deborah Nelson
SaddleBrooke
Christmas thoughts
At this time of year, when we engage in a public celebration of peace, love, and Christ’s teachings, I find it interesting that a majority of American voters (including a purported 80% of Evangelical Christians) has decided to replace DEI (Diversity, Equality and Inclusion) with HIV (Hatred, Intolerance and Vindictiveness). This makes me wonder WWJS (what would Jesus say). Perhaps one of your readers can help me understand.
Steven Brown
Midtown
Sinema was correct, Schumer wrong
I’ve been reading for several years the criticisms and attacks on Senator Sinema. Many focused on her opposition to eliminating the filibuster. Senator Schumer, cheered on by the far left, promised to eliminate it if he could. Is he eating crow now?
Remember that old adage: Be careful what you wish for? Where would we — and all you Sinema detractors — be if the filibuster had been eliminated? Just as it has prevented some extreme left positions from being enacted, it hopefully will prevent extreme right positions being adopted. How would you like a national prohibition on abortion?
Senator Sinema was correct to praise the filibuster in her farewell remarks. It prevents extreme positions from both parties and encourages compromise. That’s what I support. And I’m glad the filibuster remains in place, and I will oppose Republican attempts to remove it too.
James Tuthill
Oro Valley
UofA Athletic Department
Is anyone else scratching their heads about Greg Hansen’s article claiming the Athletic Department is worth $532M? And that the U of A is worth twice is much as ASU? Seems like a sorcerer’s blend from on-field success to NIL spending to Horny Toad tails. A large part of the determination apparently is based on recent championships. As everyone knows from investing, past performance does not guarantee future results. Maybe the U of A could sell the department, earn $40M a year alone on interest, and let one of the private equity firms manage the program. One thing we know about PE is that they always get their money first while cutting back on services and eliminating jobs.
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
Re letter: Foul Ball
If you think back to before the election and all of the lies the liberals were spewing about Trump and, already, there are more lies attempting to influence people. The quote: “Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way.†Funny, it sounds like President Trump has taken office and that Musk is nothing more than an average citizen. Of course, for those of us that actually remember reality, while Biden has been in office, the voters have experienced 25% inflation thanks to Joe’s brilliant understanding of the economy. At the same time, the world is teetering on the edge of World War III thanks to the lack of leadership by Biden with North Korea providing troops and Iran terrorists running wild with Obama’s money. And let’s not forget the change in crime and punishment thanks to Biden giving pardons and clemency to criminals with a judge selling imprisonment for income. Yes, it is time to give President Trump another opportunity.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
MAGA best-sellers
Here are some book ideas sure to please the MAGAs in your life:
No brains, no headaches, Marjorie Taylor Greene
I will only drink on days that end with “Yâ€, Pete Hegseth
Hunting with your dog is a blast, Kristi Noem
Sex, drugs and hypocrisy, Matt Gaetz
Money doesn’t care who owns it, Elon Musk
Diagonally parked in a parallel universe, Rudy Giuliani
Who needs vaccines that save lives? RFK
Killers, rapists, murderers, drug smugglers and hotel maids, Steven Miller
Living under Al-Assad’s regime is a gas, Tulsi Gabbard.
Oligarchy, look for it in 2025, Donald Trump
Rex Witherspoon
SaddleBrooke
Re: What do we do now?
I agree with much of what Hartman has to say, but I cannot support “I’m done with outrage. It’s not healthy or productive.â€
As Dylan Thomas said, “Do not go gentle into that good night.†I hope that all of us who are experiencing a similar reaction to the election results will rage, rage…
Diann Wilson
Northeast side
- James Dolian, SaddleBrooke
While we Americans have been preoccupied with the election and the impending domestic chaos, the interminable carnage continues in Gaza and the West Bank with no end in sight. More than 45,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed and perhaps as many as 10,000 more lie buried in the rubble. More than 700 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank where illegal Israeli settlements continue to proliferate. It is likely that the incoming American administration will resume the sale of offensive weapons to Israel. As this catastrophe progresses, it is becoming abundantly clear that the ultimate Israeli objective is to incorporate both the West Bank and Gaza into the State of Israel. The Palestinians that manage to survive this debacle will be rendered stateless with no civil rights because they will not be afforded Israeli citizenship.
I reject the notion that opposition to an imperial Israel is inherently antisemitic. Israel's behavior has rightly received widespread condemnation in the international community.
James Dolian
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- William Winkelman, Southeast side
Trump wants to retake the Canal from Panama, arguing that Panama has been unfair to the U.S.
How about returning Texas, which President Grant himself called a land grab from an unjust war that stained his military career, and all the land the U.S. forced Mexico to sell it at a distress price? Or return Hawaii to its native population? Or allow Canada, a more natural owner for Alaska, to buy it for cheap? Or give back to the Indians all the land the US wrested from them? The list could go on.
William Winkelman
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Richard Rebl, East side
For Mr. Elon Musk – the man who has everything and can buy anything – President Mr. Donald J. Trump.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Dave Bertagnoli, West side
Re the recent WSJ reporting on Prez Biden: As confirmed by the Trump/Biden debate, Biden has obviously slowed mentally and physically the last few years. My take on that is a "slowed" Biden was still far more effective than Trump. Any way you look at it Biden signed legislation that Trump only said he was going to pass. Infrastructure Week being the obvious best example. This may be a case of Biden hiring more competent staff but whatever the reason, Biden got things done for the betterment of the country. And regarding hiring competent staff, Trump seems to be going to great lengths to find the most incompetent people to fill out his administration, such as an intelligence chief who is unacquainted with reality. I could go on. Can't wait for Trump to deport all the farm help and construction workers. Do-over anyone?
Dave Bertagnoli
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Kathy Krucker, Midtown
What a shocker that no GOP senators signed on to this released Supreme Court ethics report. Why would GOP senators support a SCOTUS code of conduct when they seem to embrace many of Trump’s ethically challenged and outrageously unqualified cabinet and ambassador selections?
The GOP seems perfectly OK for the highest court in the land having the lowest of low ethical standards. This recent report uncovered even more deplorable SCOTUS ethical issues. Accepting lavish gifts and travel and failing to recuse on conflicts of interest, SCOTUS flaunts that they are above the law and will continue to wallow in their ethical abyss.
Good on Dem senators for trying to enact the Supreme Court Ethics Act. Shame on GOP senators for abdicating their duty to ensure that SCOTUS rulings are made with impartiality and adherence to the bedrock of our Constitution that no one is above the law.
SCOTUS will fit right in on what will be a Trump swamp 2.0.
Kathy Krucker
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- phil lyons, Foothills
I'm all for freedom of speech and the press, but this opinion piece should never have been printed. With the obligatory words of "...I do not condone murder", the author of this piece then spends the rest of her article basically condoning it. Such phrases as "...the (hope) that the drastic measure...might lead to some positive reform." She finished with (referencing the killing of the CEO) and "surprised"? "No. If anything, we should be a bit surprised that it didn't happen sooner."
The author of this screed in described as a "ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ educator." I'm not a fan of "cancel culture" but if she's a teacher in any school system, she should be removed. At risk of a sentence which may lead to this not getting published (so you can remove it if desired), the editor who selected this article, I'd suggest, might be reassigned to, say, the food section.
phil lyons
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Biden and Trump
Re the recent WSJ reporting on Prez Biden: As confirmed by the Trump/Biden debate, Biden has obviously slowed mentally and physically the last few years. My take on that is a “slowed†Biden was still far more effective than Trump. Any way you look at it Biden signed legislation that Trump only said he was going to pass. Infrastructure Week being the obvious best example. This may be a case of Biden hiring more competent staff but whatever the reason, Biden got things done for the betterment of the country. And regarding hiring competent staff, Trump seems to be going to great lengths to find the most incompetent people to fill out his administration, such as an intelligence chief who is unacquainted with reality. I could go on. Can’t wait for Trump to deport all the farm help and construction workers. Do-over anyone?
Dave Bertagnoli
West side
Positive letters welcome
Once again, the holidays see letters from Messrs. Hancock, Johnson, McConnell and Sollenberger, all extremely negative towards those and things they disagree with. We get it: You support Trump. Okay, but it would be much more productive if instead of a constant barrage of negativism, you would write something more positive. Couple of examples: Many of us are very concerned about Trump’s proposed tariffs. If you think those tariffs would be a good idea, why not tell us why you support them. Still others of us are very concerned about the effects of Trump’s promises of mass deportations. If you think such deportations are a good idea, please tell us why you think so and not just in broad statements, but specifically and addressing the problems many see with his policy on that. More positive discussion please and less railing about how bad those who disagree with you are.
Michael Price
Midtown
Murder and medical insurance
I’m all for freedom of speech and the press, but this opinion piece should never have been printed. With the obligatory words of “... I do not condone murderâ€, the author of this piece then spends the rest of her article basically condoning it. Such phrases as “... the (hope) that the drastic measure ... might lead to some positive reform.†She finished with (referencing the killing of the CEO) and “surprisedâ€? “No. If anything, we should be a bit surprised that it didn’t happen sooner.â€
The author of this screed in described as a “ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ educator.†I’m not a fan of “cancel culture†but if she’s a teacher in any school system, she should be removed. At risk of a sentence which may lead to this not getting published (so you can remove it if desired), the editor who selected this article, I’d suggest, might be reassigned to, say, the food section.
Phil Lyons
Foothills
SCOTUS will be part of Trump’s swamp
What a shocker that no GOP senators signed on to this released Supreme Court ethics report. Why would GOP senators support a SCOTUS code of conduct when they seem to embrace many of Trump’s ethically challenged and outrageously unqualified cabinet and ambassador selections?
The GOP seems perfectly OK for the highest court in the land having the lowest of low ethical standards. This recent report uncovered even more deplorable SCOTUS ethical issues. Accepting lavish gifts and travel and failing to recuse on conflicts of interest, SCOTUS flaunts that they are above the law and will continue to wallow in their ethical abyss.
Good on Dem senators for trying to enact the Supreme Court Ethics Act. Shame on GOP senators for abdicating their duty to ensure that SCOTUS rulings are made with impartiality and adherence to the bedrock of our Constitution that no one is above the law.
SCOTUS will fit right in on what will be a Trump swamp 2.0.
Kathy Krucker
Midtown
Encouraging connection and support
Transitioning from Veterans Day to the holiday season, we continue to honor those who have served in the military.
We recognize unique challenges the holidays can bring for our Veteran community, it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone. We encourage Veterans to stay connected with loved ones, manage expectations, and reach out for help when needed. If you’re a Veteran in crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (Press 1) for 24/7 confidential support.
This holiday season let’s reflect on the sacrifices made by our brave service members and express gratitude for our freedoms and know that supporting our Veterans is not just a holiday activity but a year-round commitment that strengthens our community and honors those who have served.
Take control of your health and register for VA Healthcare today and ensure you receive the support you’ve earned through your dedicated service!
Visit or contact SAVAHCS at 520-792-1450 for care.
Jaison Bloom
South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Fair is fair
Trump wants to retake the Canal from Panama, arguing that Panama has been unfair to the U.S.
How about returning Texas, which President Grant himself called a land grab from an unjust war that stained his military career, and all the land the U.S. forced Mexico to sell it at a distress price? Or return Hawaii to its native population? Or allow Canada, a more natural owner for Alaska, to buy it for cheap? Or give back to the Indians all the land the US wrested from them? The list could go on.
William Winkelman
Southeast side
Bernard Lagat
A big thank you to Mackenzie Dilworth and the Daily Star for Monday’s piece on Bernard Lagat. In this day and age of Name, Image, Likeness and the millions of dollars pumped into the revenue sports, it is refreshing to see this article on Bernard. I do not know Bernard personally, but in the chance interactions with him, his warm demeanor has always impressed me. Watching him interact with his athletes makes one proud of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ cross country and track and field. Keep up the great leadership Bernard, a coach who truly leads by example.
Jerry Wagner
Vail
And the band played on
While we Americans have been preoccupied with the election and the impending domestic chaos, the interminable carnage continues in Gaza and the West Bank with no end in sight. More than 45,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed and perhaps as many as 10,000 more lie buried in the rubble. More than 700 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank where illegal Israeli settlements continue to proliferate. It is likely that the incoming American administration will resume the sale of offensive weapons to Israel. As this catastrophe progresses, it is becoming abundantly clear that the ultimate Israeli objective is to incorporate both the West Bank and Gaza into the State of Israel. The Palestinians that manage to survive this debacle will be rendered stateless with no civil rights because they will not be afforded Israeli citizenship.
I reject the notion that opposition to an imperial Israel is inherently antisemitic. Israel’s behavior has rightly received widespread condemnation in the international community.
James Dolian
SaddleBrooke
In praise of Christmas cards
I believe that Christmas cards are a wonderful thing.
I love sending them, I love receiving them,
They may be religious, or humorous, or light-hearted.
They may be the only contact of the year between old friends and sometimes distant relatives.
We know that expressing gratitude in letters and cards have been found to boost positive emotions in both the receiver and sender.
Sending Christmas cards is a nice way to connect with people you care about.
Sending Christmas cards is a tradition with several heartwarming reasons behind it:
A physical card in the mail can brighten someone’s day and bring a sense of joy during the holiday season.
It shows that you took the time and effort to reach out.
For many, sending and receiving Christmas cards is a cherished tradition that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Christmas cards offer a unique way to express care and connection during the holiday season.
Most cards end with those magical words: “Merry Christmasâ€.
Tom McGorray
Northwest side
The gift that keeps on giving
For Mr. Elon Musk — the man who has everything and can buy anything — President Mr. Donald J. Trump.
Richard Rebl
East side
A running ambassador
The recent AZ Daily Star’s Sports section’s article “Lagat brings legacy of excellence†brought a smile. Reading of Bernard Lagat’s journey to his present role as cross-country and track coach at the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, I was struck by his determination as an athlete and dedication to running and coaching. His achievements as a five-time Olympian for both Kenya and the United States, display unique talents. More than once I saw Lagat running the loop or near Sabino High School, where I once mistook his fluid form for a deer in the early morning light. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ and the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ are fortunate to have such a stellar role model as Bernard Lagat.
Roger Shanley
East side
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way. They are not blowing smoke either. This country is likely to be set afire.
Our new leaders, brave beyond measure, are ready to roll out the first of their critical edicts, cutting Social Security, Medicare, and VA benefits. This proves that lunacy is part of their management style.
But it could cause MAGA to hang up their hats or wish they were helmets. They know there is likely a blowback from Democrats who will throw scorn and words of disdain their way in a rain of no end. MAGA depends on those monthly funds to survive and make their truck payments. In fact, everyone will suffer by taking away those social programs.
Now, MAGA men and women know a rat when they see one. They claim they were deceived. Trump cast a spell with his bravado, and they fell into it. Soon, many of them will take the antidote and be free.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Beth Dingman, Green Valley
Lots of people, it seems, wanted change. Biden was what, too old, not dynamic enough? But people didn’t want gender identities to change, or male privilege to change. Maybe they just wanted the price of eggs to change.
Well, guess what, this is the real change you voted for: the change from a democratic form of government with three independent bodies: executive, legislative and an independent judiciary; to an autocratic one, with the supreme leader (Trump or Musk — still not clear) ruling over everything through threats, intimidation, and money, lots of money.
Already Donald Jr. is talking about maybe suspending elections in four years (maybe he thinks he can inherit the throne) and certainly Musk and Trump have started threatening the few Republicans who still have a backbone, with financing those who will do their bidding in the next congressional election.
You have handed over our government to two power-hungry megalomaniacs. You may like the change, but I, for one, am scared to death.
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Loran Hancock, Northwest side
Biden is again pushing to forgive billions of dollars in students loans despite the Supreme Court's ruling that he cannot do it. But why can't students pay back the loans they asked for, once they graduate and get jobs in the real world? Maybe the cost of living under Biden, coupled with making student loan payments, exceeds the money they make from the jobs they got after graduating. If so, why can't students find good jobs based on their college education? The problem is that universities no longer educate. They are fermentation tanks for social activism and indoctrination instead of learning and functional capability. We no longer hear about excellence in academics from our universities. Instead, the news is all about student protests, DEI initiatives, and examples of blatant plagiarism, none of which promotes educational excellence and academic capability. Maybe the time has come to clear the distractions and return to an environment of learning and holding both faculties and students accountable.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Tim Wernette, Foothills
We all want power and control over our own lives. The irony of power and control over others is that it almost always results in violence and destruction of the other. We see this on the interpersonal level, when someone trying to control their partner usually results in domestic violence. We see this on the international stage with wars between countries: Isreal's desire to control the Palestinians is destroying Gaza; Putin's desire to control Ukraine is destroying Ukraine. Here in our country, power over results in discrimination and bias against others we fear and try to control, resulting in their misery and death. The ultimate irony is that power and control over others also destroys those who try to control. We're likely to see lots of politically controlling actions with the new federal administration over women, immigrants, and other marginalized communities who already lack control over their own lives.
Tim Wernette
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Susan Ulanoff, Oro Valley
In his letter to the editor ("By Any Other Name") published December 21, 2024, Thad Appelman writes: "And don't start with that 'antisemitism' crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race..." Good to know, except that Judaism is not a race. "To Jews," wrote Daniel Schwartz on Quora, "being Jewish generally refers to religion. It can also mean a cultural heritage and a family." Please, Mr. Appelman, do your research prior to your ranting.
Susan Ulanoff
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Joseph Stanley, Northeast side
A recent letter bemoaned the appointment of Kash Patel as FBI Director. Really? Trump’s public disdain for the FBI made such a corrosive appointment inevitable, the only qualification loyalty to the Dear Leader. Other egregious, clown-car appointments include Tulsi Gabbard in Intelligence and the lunacy of RFK Jr., whose discredited vaccine theories will surely adversely impact many innocent young lives.
So, congratulations conservatives. Your disregard of the credible and professional warnings of dangers of a second Trump term accomplished what no foreign adversary could. You still chose chaos and tyranny over competence and morality. Vengeful attacks on media and public officials now underway are only the tip of the looming onslaught. Trump may soon exit the stage due to mental and physical decline but his toxic agenda will probably continue via his supporters. The real victims are our children who will pay the price for this shameful and historic collapse of integrity by the electorate.
Joseph Stanley
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Dennis Abrams, Northwest side
For all of you who continue to moan and object to the casualties in Gaza, here is some historical perspective as well as some common-sense perspective. All wars produce civilian casualties, some inadvertent and some intentional. In World War II just prior to D-Day, the allies bombed numerous French cities in the area hoping to get at the German army. Many towns were destroyed, and thousands of Frenchmen were killed and wounded. Germany was repeatedly carpet-bombed, destroying cities and thousands of civilians. And then we have Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a deliberate attack on civilians in an attempt to convince the Empire of Japan that continuing the war was futile. These were not acts of genocide, but the gas chambers and ovens were.
Hamas attacked Israel and Israel went to war with Hamas, the political terrorist government of Gaza whose people overwhelmingly support Hamas. It is Hamas who advocates genocide with their stated intention to wipe Israel from the face of the earth. Wake up!
Dennis Abrams
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Sean Bruner, West side
It is distressing to hear that the richest man in the world, not elected to any position, is mandating a $3 trillion cut in the federal budget, which will impose unimaginable hardship on millions, especially those hard-working, experienced federal employees who will be laid off. The only realistic solution to the budget deficit is tax reform, making billionaires like Musk, Trump and Ramaswamy pay their fair share to the country that made their success possible.
Sean Bruner
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Federal deficit
It is distressing to hear that the richest man in the world, not elected to any position, is mandating a $3 trillion cut in the federal budget, which will impose unimaginable hardship on millions, especially those hard-working, experienced federal employees who will be laid off. The only realistic solution to the budget deficit is tax reform, making billionaires like Musk, Trump and Ramaswamy pay their fair share to the country that made their success possible.
Sean Bruner
West side
Not a small error
In his letter to the editor (“By Any Other Nameâ€) published December 21, 2024, Thad Appelman writes: “And don’t start with that ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race...†Good to know, except that Judaism is not a race. “To Jews,†wrote Daniel Schwartz on Quora, “being Jewish generally refers to religion. It can also mean a cultural heritage and a family.†Please, Mr. Appelman, do your research prior to your ranting.
Susan Ulanoff
Oro Valley
Change
Lots of people, it seems, wanted change. Biden was what, too old, not dynamic enough? But people didn’t want gender identities to change, or male privilege to change. Maybe they just wanted the price of eggs to change.
Well, guess what, this is the real change you voted for: the change from a democratic form of government with three independent bodies: executive, legislative and an independent judiciary; to an autocratic one, with the supreme leader (Trump or Musk — still not clear) ruling over everything through threats, intimidation, and money, lots of money.
Already Donald Jr. is talking about maybe suspending elections in four years (maybe he thinks he can inherit the throne) and certainly Musk and Trump have started threatening the few Republicans who still have a backbone, with financing those who will do their bidding in the next congressional election.
You have handed over our government to two power-hungry megalomaniacs. You may like the change, but I, for one, am scared to death.
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Student loan farce
Biden is again pushing to forgive billions of dollars in student loans despite the Supreme Court’s ruling that he cannot do it. But why can’t students pay back the loans they asked for, once they graduate and get jobs in the real world? Maybe the cost of living under Biden, coupled with making student loan payments, exceeds the money they make from the jobs they got after graduating. If so, why can’t students find good jobs based on their college education? The problem is that universities no longer educate. They are fermentation tanks for social activism and indoctrination instead of learning and functional capability. We no longer hear about excellence in academics from our universities. Instead, the news is all about student protests, DEI initiatives, and examples of blatant plagiarism, none of which promotes educational excellence and academic capability. Maybe the time has come to clear the distractions and return to an environment of learning and holding both faculties and students accountable.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
Power and control
We all want power and control over our own lives. The irony of power and control over others is that it almost always results in violence and destruction of the other. We see this on the interpersonal level, when someone trying to control their partner usually results in domestic violence. We see this on the international stage with wars between countries: Israel’s desire to control the Palestinians is destroying Gaza; Putin’s desire to control Ukraine is destroying Ukraine. Here in our country, power over results in discrimination and bias against others we fear and try to control, resulting in their misery and death. The ultimate irony is that power and control over others also destroys those who try to control. We’re likely to see lots of politically controlling actions with the new federal administration over women, immigrants, and other marginalized communities who already lack control over their own lives.
Tim Wernette
Foothills
Not rooting for the uniform
With NIL and open transfer portals there is little continuity in UA basketball and football teams these days. Gone are the times when each new season you recognized most of the returning players. It was great to watch players skills progress from freshman to seniors. Not anymore. I don’t know the guys on the basketball team, they’re all new and will probably be gone next year. Dozens of UA football players are transferring, so next year will be largely new faces. I’m not just going to root for a red and blue uniform, so next year my seasons tickets from 1983 will go into the transfer portal, money back into my wallet.
Dennis Winsten
Northeast side
U of A athletics
From a long-time basketball/softball season ticket holder and major donor, I offer the following perspective:
- UA has lost significant talent to key competitors in athletics over the past few years — AD Greg Byrne to Alabama; Jedd Fisch to WU; Laura Ianello to Texas; Jay Johnson to LSU. It’s not a surprise that these losses were to wealthy Big 10 and SEC schools.
- Mike Candrea retired and our softball team hasn’t performed up to UA standards since
- The despised school up north earned a first-round bye in the college football playoff, winning the Big12 conference in its first year; Bobby’s rag-tag basketball team of transfers at ASU is off to a good start, and our Wildcats will have to prove they can consistently beat ranked teams
I’m not gloom and doom — and I will continue to support Wildcats sports, but the program has a lot to prove in the midst of professional pay to retain its value vs. that despised school up north.
Rob Matteucci
Oro Valley
Trump’s agenda
A recent letter bemoaned the appointment of Kash Patel as FBI Director. Really? Trump’s public disdain for the FBI made such a corrosive appointment inevitable, the only qualification loyalty to the Dear Leader. Other egregious, clown-car appointments include Tulsi Gabbard in Intelligence and the lunacy of RFK Jr., whose discredited vaccine theories will surely adversely impact many innocent young lives.
So, congratulations conservatives. Your disregard of the credible and professional warnings of dangers of a second Trump term accomplished what no foreign adversary could. You still chose chaos and tyranny over competence and morality. Vengeful attacks on media and public officials now underway are only the tip of the looming onslaught. Trump may soon exit the stage due to mental and physical decline but his toxic agenda will probably continue via his supporters. The real victims are our children who will pay the price for this shameful and historic collapse of integrity by the electorate.
Joseph Stanley
Northeast side
Foul ball
Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way. They are not blowing smoke either. This country is likely to be set afire.
Our new leaders, brave beyond measure, are ready to roll out the first of their critical edicts, cutting Social Security, Medicare, and VA benefits. This proves that lunacy is part of their management style.
But it could cause MAGA to hang up their hats or wish they were helmets. They know there is likely a blowback from Democrats who will throw scorn and words of disdain their way in a rain of no end. MAGA depends on those monthly funds to survive and make their truck payments. In fact, everyone will suffer by taking away those social programs.
Now, MAGA men and women know a rat when they see one. They claim they were deceived. Trump cast a spell with his bravado, and they fell into it. Soon, many of them will take the antidote and be free.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Be honest about immigration
Most of the Star’s readers are undoubtedly reasonably law-abiding people, and many will be offended by foreigners who come to the US without legal status, or arrive in legal status but overstay or violate it.
I share these qualms. However, let’s be honest: Even the most law-abiding of us may break the law if we see no other option. Which of us would remain in poverty in a country where our children were being menaced by gangs and threatened with violence if they didn’t join as either shooters or sex slaves? Would we really refuse on principle to violate the laws of a wealthy country that seemed to offer its residents safety from crime and even, dare we hope, the chance of a better life? Or would we break the law to save our families? Be honest.
SW McFadden
Foothills
War perspective
For all of you who continue to moan and object to the casualties in Gaza, here is some historical perspective as well as some common-sense perspective. All wars produce civilian casualties, some inadvertent and some intentional. In World War II just prior to D-Day, the allies bombed numerous French cities in the area hoping to get at the German army. Many towns were destroyed, and thousands of Frenchmen were killed and wounded. Germany was repeatedly carpet-bombed, destroying cities and thousands of civilians. And then we have Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a deliberate attack on civilians in an attempt to convince the Empire of Japan that continuing the war was futile. These were not acts of genocide, but the gas chambers and ovens were.
Hamas attacked Israel and Israel went to war with Hamas, the political terrorist government of Gaza whose people overwhelmingly support Hamas. It is Hamas who advocates genocide with their stated intention to wipe Israel from the face of the earth. Wake up!
Dennis Abrams
Northwest side
Literacy and libraries
RE: Why ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ should focus on literacy right now
While non-profit organizations have an important role to play in elevating literacy in our community, young people’s ready access to books is a strong predictor of reading achievement and success in life. Sadly, the Pima County Public Library system is struggling to staff and keep all of its current branches open; there are only 16 certified school librarians in 89 ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Unified schools.
As Walter Cronkite once observed: “Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation.â€
Let’s commit to funding our public libraries so librarians can engage patrons of all ages in dynamic literacy experiences all year long. Let’s commit to lobbying the Legislature to appropriately fund our K-12 district public schools. More funding will allow districts to staff all schools with certified librarians who have sufficient library budgets so they can lead vibrant school library programs 180 days of the school year.
Judi Moreillon
Northeast side
Help from Ciscomani?
So, Daily Star, your man Tim Steller thinks we need Congressman Ciscomani to help us “rein in Trump’s worst impulsesâ€. I’ll be watching the weather reports from hell. I wonder if they use 32° F or 0° C.
John Kromko
Downtown
- William Jones, East side
Amazing “history†lesson from a libertarian. What was left out was President Carter tried to move America toward a sustainable future and President Reagan ensured that Earth would get hotter year after year. What is left out of the economic debate is the cost for rebuilding after extreme storms ($48 billion for NC alone after Hurricane Helene and over $200 billion/year everywhere). What is left out is that people die in these storms by hotter oceans and wildfires created by drought. The Department of Defense for years (read 2019 report) that climate change is a national security threat.
The Rocky Mountain Institute has reported for over 15 years that America could get to net zero pollution emissions and grow the economy by $5 trillion over a decade. I never see that mentioned by conservatives. Migration is occurring because of climate change. People are dying in the extreme heat in Phoenix and ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Imagine. Pay me now or pay me later.
William Jones
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Michael Chihak, West side
Re: the Dec. 16 letter “Unbelievable.â€
The writer, who regularly spews fiction, is at it again. This time, he left out a critical fact that makes his point moot.
He wrote that the Biden administration is auctioning the steel sheets that were stored after the president ordered a halt to border wall construction in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
What he failed to mention was that the sale is required under federal acquisition regulations, as reported by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥week on Dec. 13. Perhaps he did not know that, or perhaps he omitted it so he could call Biden’s actions “potentially treasonous.â€
He evidently didn’t read the Constitution’s Article III, Section 3, which defines treason. The definition does not include following federal regulations.
He ended by saying that Texas will purchase the steel panels and return them to the federal government, “so fortunately, there is common sense in some areas of our nation.â€
Just not in his mind.
Michael Chihak
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jose Salgado, Northeast side
Hey, it may not be such a bad idea to have Elon Musk running the President’s roll. Elon Musk is rich. I have not heard of him getting his money from his father. I think he made all his money himself. That makes him a good businessman. On the other hand, we have Donald Trump who has filed for bankruptcy not once but six times. Doesn’t sound like the kind of guy I would trust.
Elon Musk might be good for the country instead of you know who.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Elinor Brecher, Foothills
For as long as Republicans have been freaking out about the "rigged, stolen, corrupted" elections they lost, I did a lot of scoffing and eye rolling. American elections, especially for national office, are likely the world's most secure. This wasn't an issue until a certain 2016 presidential candidate poisoned the well by announcing that he could only lose if Democrats cheated. He got elected, then hedging his bets against future defeats, maintained the insidious fiction, destroying, perhaps forever, millions of Americans' faith in the electoral process. Well, MAGA, you've finally convinced me. Elections aren't just corrupted; they're unnecessary! President-elect Elon Musk wasn't even on the ballot. But when Trump's sugar daddy instructs his minion to tank a bipartisan government-funding bill, poof! It's gone! A shut-down won't hurt an "unelected bureaucrat" worth $500 billion, but wait 'til you see what it does to you.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Frederick Leinfest, Oro Valley
Like many Americans, I have been inconsolable since November 5.I have participated in every election since Eisenhower and always accepted the results. In those days, however, a candidate was usually qualified to govern our country, regardless of political affiliation. Someone who does not read, can't spell or find a location on a map, would not even qualify to enter a primary. Now, slavish subservience and revenge are indispensable prerequisites for any major government assignment. As recently as two decades ago, it would have been unthinkable to nominate Trump's eccentrics and extremists for cabinet positions; or insult France by "honoring" our oldest ally with a pardoned felon as ambassador. The major two components of Trump's success were the Evangelical Christians, who are euphoric about his second coming even though their hero has reportedly attended church services less than a dozen times; and the uneducated, who comprise more than half of our population and are impressed by his "masculinity." We can only hope that the Ignoramus will not touch our constitution.
Frederick Leinfest
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David Devine, Midtown
Kent's Blumenthal's December 14th opinion piece, "Three compromised, dangerous peas in a pod," reminded me of the 1959 hit "Charlie Brown" sung by the Coasters. Even though Charlie is personally responsible for his own trials and tribulations, all he can ask is: "Why's everybody always picking on me?" Maybe it's time Israeli supporters of the continuing useless slaughter and starvation of innocents, the elderly, and medical staff in Gaza look in the mirror for the cause.
David Devine
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Greg Lewis, Midtown
Re: Ryan Yonk’s Dec. 16 opinion, “Get real: Coal, oil and gas are here to stay.†Yes, and horses, also, are here to stay but we haven’t looked to them as our primary source of power and transportation for quite some time.
This writer never mentions the reason for transitioning to renewable energy. He just says “it’s a significant goal of environmental groups and their allies.†No opinions from the overwhelming majority of the worlds top climate scientists? No? Just a bunch of lefties trying to shove electric cars down our throats? Biden’s war on fossil fuels? Henry Ford’s war on horses?
The stone age didn’t end because they ran out of stones and, one way or another, the Age of Fossil Fuel will end long before we run out of coal, oil and gas.
Greg Lewis
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
I'm not sure how Jeffery McConnell came up with Elon Musk being a good guy when he's the furthest thing from a "good guy." Jeff explains how George Soros is really the Billionaire political donor that can be blamed for, what exactly he didn't explain.
He complains that Soros bought up numerous small radio stations because "Biden" allowed it.
He goes on to say that when Musk bought out Twitter, Musk immediately released the Twitter Files detailing prior free-speech abuses, promoting all voices."
Musk didn't promote "all voices." He allowed disinformation to be fed to voters to help sway the election for the convicted felon. What's bigger in this age? Radio or X?
When did Soros tell lawmakers he'd "primary" every member of Congress if they didn't back Biden? Jeff, you're mistaken, as so many others that were fooled by the con man and his billionaire friend.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
U of A women’s basketball stars
I want to commend the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ women’s basketball team for not only what they do on the court but for what they do off the court. They brought numerous stuffed bears and toys to Casa de los Ninos to benefit the many families we serve. It was a day that celebrated the holiday spirit in the right way: helping others. It made hearts swell to see the joy of the team and the Casa de Los Ninos workers while unloading the many toys that would make a happy day for the over 3,000 children Casa De los Ninos serves. Thank you for being the “stars†for all of us.
Dee-Dee Samet
President, Casa de los Niños Foundation Board
Midtown
Before casting stones, look in the mirror
Kent Blumenthal’s December 14th opinion piece, “Three compromised, dangerous peas in a pod,†reminded me of the 1959 hit “Charlie Brown†sung by the Coasters. Even though Charlie is personally responsible for his own trials and tribulations, all he can ask is: “Why’s everybody always picking on me?†Maybe it’s time Israeli supporters of the continuing useless slaughter and starvation of innocents, the elderly, and medical staff in Gaza look in the mirror for the cause.
David Devine
Midtown
Writer’s words are what’s ‘unbelievable’
Re: the Dec. 16 letter “Unbelievable.â€
The writer, who regularly spews fiction, is at it again. This time, he left out a critical fact that makes his point moot.
He wrote that the Biden administration is auctioning the steel sheets that were stored after the president ordered a halt to border wall construction in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
What he failed to mention was that the sale is required under federal acquisition regulations, as reported by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥week on Dec. 13. Perhaps he did not know that, or perhaps he omitted it so he could call Biden’s actions “potentially treasonous.â€
He evidently didn’t read the Constitution’s Article III, Section 3, which defines treason. The definition does not include following federal regulations.
He ended by saying that Texas will purchase the steel panels and return them to the federal government, “so fortunately, there is common sense in some areas of our nation.â€
Just not in his mind.
Michael Chihak
West side
Voice of America
VOA was created at the beginning of WWII. Today, it is the largest international broadcaster providing information to roughly 350 million people worldwide and spoken in over 50 languages. VOA is a U.S. government radio network that began in 1942 to counter Nazi propaganda. Its mission was to spread accurate and informative news. In 2022, VOA celebrated its 80th year of broadcasting.
Past VOC directors have been Amanda Bennett (author; Pulitzer Prize Awardee), John Chancellor (NBC Nightly ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥), Dr. Mary Bitterman (served during the American-Iran hostage takeover; served during Liberia’s bloody Coup d’etat).
VOA’s mission has been to provide truthful, objective, and accountable news with cultural programming. It continues this arduous mission to this day.
2025 will be looking at Kari Lake as its next possible director. Ms. Lake would be responsible for truthful, objective and accountable news and programming. Really?
Tom Staab
East side
Kari Lake to Voice of America is a clue
The Charter of the “Voice of America†(VOA) was signed in 1976 by Republican president Gerald R. Ford. A firewall was announced in 1994 to protect the VOA’s mission of providing independent journalistic standards for its broadcasts. Under Trump’s leadership in 2017’s National Defense Authorization Act, the charter, mission and firewall were all reaffirmed.
The International Broadcasting Advisory Board (IBAB) was instituted in 2023 because of the political interference and retributions of Michael Pack, Trump’s 2020 appointment for the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) who received Senate confirmation. According to investigations, Pack fired many professional journalists in the VOA and replaced them with Trump sympathizers with no international journalistic experience. Congress found Pack had abused his position.
The power of the USAGM is its head, who needs Senate confirmation. But the IBAB appoints the head of the VOA. It’s not a done deal for Lake.
Politically, if Trump wants Lake to be the head of the VOA, then his future pick for head of the USAGM will be worse.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Imagine, getting real about coal and gas
Amazing “history†lesson from a libertarian. What was left out was President Carter tried to move America toward a sustainable future and President Reagan ensured that Earth would get hotter year after year. What is left out of the economic debate is the cost for rebuilding after extreme storms ($48 billion for NC alone after Hurricane Helene and over $200 billion/year everywhere). What is left out is that people die in these storms by hotter oceans and wildfires created by drought. The Department of Defense for years (read 2019 report) that climate change is a national security threat.
The Rocky Mountain Institute has reported for over 15 years that America could get to net zero pollution emissions and grow the economy by $5 trillion over a decade. I never see that mentioned by conservatives. Migration is occurring because of climate change. People are dying in the extreme heat in Phoenix and ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Imagine. Pay me now or pay me later.
William Jones
East side
Trump ante portas
Like many Americans, I have been inconsolable since November 5. I have participated in every election since Eisenhower and always accepted the results. In those days, however, a candidate was usually qualified to govern our country, regardless of political affiliation. Someone who does not read, can’t spell or find a location on a map, would not even qualify to enter a primary. Now, slavish subservience and revenge are indispensable prerequisites for any major government assignment. As recently as two decades ago, it would have been unthinkable to nominate Trump’s eccentrics and extremists for cabinet positions; or insult France by “honoring†our oldest ally with a pardoned felon as ambassador. The major two components of Trump’s success were the Evangelical Christians, who are euphoric about his second coming even though their hero has reportedly attended church services less than a dozen times; and the uneducated, who comprise more than half of our population and are impressed by his “masculinity.†We can only hope that the Ignoramus will not touch our Constitution.
Frederick Leinfest
Oro Valley
School shooting
More guns, more shootings.
Guns in the hands of troubled people is a recipe for disaster.
And who are these troubled people?
Us!
Jim Dreis
East side
President Musk?
For as long as Republicans have been freaking out about the “rigged, stolen, corrupted†elections they lost, I did a lot of scoffing and eye rolling. American elections, especially for national office, are likely the world’s most secure. This wasn’t an issue until a certain 2016 presidential candidate poisoned the well by announcing that he could only lose if Democrats cheated. He got elected, then hedging his bets against future defeats, maintained the insidious fiction, destroying, perhaps forever, millions of Americans’ faith in the electoral process. Well, MAGA, you’ve finally convinced me. Elections aren’t just corrupted; they’re unnecessary! President-elect Elon Musk wasn’t even on the ballot. But when Trump’s sugar daddy instructs his minion to tank a bipartisan government-funding bill, poof! It’s gone! A shut-down won’t hurt an “unelected bureaucrat†worth $500 billion but wait ‘til you see what it does to you.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Musk is everything but a good guy
I’m not sure how Jeffery McConnell came up with Elon Musk being a good guy when he’s the furthest thing from a “good guy.†Jeff explains how George Soros is really the Billionaire political donor that can be blamed for, what exactly he didn’t explain.
He complains that Soros bought up numerous small radio stations because “Biden†allowed it.
He goes on to say that when Musk bought out Twitter, Musk immediately released the Twitter Files detailing prior free-speech abuses, promoting “all voices.â€
Musk didn’t promote “all voices.†He allowed disinformation to be fed to voters to help sway the election for the convicted felon. What’s bigger in this age? Radio or X?
When did Soros tell lawmakers he’d “primary†every member of Congress if they didn’t back Biden? Jeff, you’re mistaken, as so many others that were fooled by the con man and his billionaire friend.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Elon Musk helps Trump run the country
Hey, it may not be such a bad idea to have Elon Musk running the President’s roll. Elon Musk is rich. I have not heard of him getting his money from his father. I think he made all his money himself. That makes him a good businessman. On the other hand, we have Donald Trump who has filed for bankruptcy not once but six times. Doesn’t sound like the kind of guy I would trust.
Elon Musk might be good for the country instead of you know who.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Get real (Get a horse!)
Re: Ryan Yonk’s Dec. 16 opinion, “Get real: Coal, oil and gas are here to stay.†Yes, and horses, also, are here to stay but we haven’t looked to them as our primary source of power and transportation for quite some time.
This writer never mentions the reason for transitioning to renewable energy. He just says “it’s a significant goal of environmental groups and their allies.†No opinions from the overwhelming majority of the worlds top climate scientists? No? Just a bunch of lefties trying to shove electric cars down our throats? Biden’s war on fossil fuels? Henry Ford’s war on horses?
The stone age didn’t end because they ran out of stones and, one way or another, the Age of Fossil Fuel will end long before we run out of coal, oil and gas.
Greg Lewis
Midtown
- Barbara Benjamin, Foothills
Our Founding Fathers found freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press fundamental to our inalienable rights. That's why those freedoms are listed first in the Bill of Rights. Is it any wonder, therefore, that Trump is going after the media? Threatening the media with lawsuits, even those he doesn't expect to win, is an attempt to rein in the public's right to know. He has already indicated that he will eliminate the right to free speech through assembly with military intervention. The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times have already ceded their freedom to Trump by limiting what their papers publish. Trump's lawsuit against the De Moines Register is bogus because he didn't like them printing a poll that indicated he was 3 points behind Vice President Harris. By limiting the public's right to know, what better way can an authoritarian secure power? An ignorant and uninformed public guarantees the goal! Are we ready to forgo our inalienable rights?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cheryl Lockhart, Foothills
After months of warnings that DT would destroy democracy, Joe Biden has gone silent, and done nothing to prevent or protect us from authoritarian takeovers. Wake up, Joe. The Supreme Court has given you rare power, so use it, and do some good before you fade into the twilight. Here are some suggestions: 1. Make all DACA recipients legal. 2. Close Guantanamo. (The 16 men, none of whom have been charged with a crime, are costing taxpayers half a billion a year.) Send them to other countries. 3. Stop all bomb shipments to Israel and join the world in condemning their war crimes. 4. Pre-emptive pardons for the January 6 committee. Sure, some might be undone, but I for one would respect you for fighting for truth and justice, and not just sulking silently smiling into Christmas lights.
Cheryl Lockhart
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
It should be remembered that Trump diverted $ 14.8 billion from the Defense Dept. for much needed equipment and improvements to military bases and used it for the Trump wall.
Spending on the Defense Dept. would be a much better return on investment.
Reprogramming that money, in detail, from Defense Dept. to wall can be found​ in an NPR article online.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. Did Trump voters expect something different this time around?
Trump is still what he has always been, namely mean, small, ignorant, petty, and self-serving. Look at the unqualified sycophants he is putting in his administration. His plans for revenge against his perceived enemies and the media are truly frightening. Take a look at his plans for Social Security and Medicare. I don't know what our uninformed electorate was expecting, but they are in for some rude awakenings, and all of us are in for some really scary times.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
No new city taxes
Until the City can demonstrate they are effectively delivering quality services, on time, within budget, taxpayers shouldn’t be asked to pony up more of their hard-earned dollars for a higher tax, which hurts low-income workers.
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Albuquerque, El Paso, and Pinal County have internal audit teams that review their city processes to determine if they are following established procedures and budgets, adhering to their quality standards, and delivering their services on time. And these cities publish their audit reports on their websites for everyone to see.
Then there is ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, with just two full-time auditor positions, both currently vacant, and conveniently not publishing their reports for the public to see. The City Charter is very poorly written in regard to internal audits, making it clear that the M&C don’t understand the benefits, or maybe even care.
The City proves to us every day how they cannot deliver even the simplest of services effectively, so why reward them with more money to waste?
Lois Pawlak
Midtown
Neutral-site games
We all know that transparency went out the window with NIL but I struggle to see how neutral-site games are moneymakers. The recent U of A-UCLA game in Phoenix attracted 5,000 fewer than if played at McKale. If the powers that be acknowledged the amount of compensation, then perhaps fans could accept the financial benefits (at least emotionally) of playing these games away from home. Otherwise, it leads to conjecture and speculation about how much is passed under the table.
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
You expected something different?
The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. Did Trump voters expect something different this time around?
Trump is still what he has always been, namely mean, small, ignorant, petty, and self-serving. Look at the unqualified sycophants he is putting in his administration. His plans for revenge against his perceived enemies and the media are truly frightening. Take a look at his plans for Social Security and Medicare. I don’t know what our uninformed electorate was expecting, but they are in for some rude awakenings, and all of us are in for some really scary times.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Poverty Project
Out of the mouths of those who have walked the walk, Leilani Gomez’ very specific asks should be seriously considered. For sure the City doesn’t have the money to fund every well-intentioned and reasonable endeavor that comes its way but what the writer proposes is a step above the fray. Complaining about homeless people fouling neighborhoods, high unemployment among young Latinos, drugs — all have a pretty similar root cause. And it starts with poverty. The problem with being poor is that you have no money. And no voice. And no real life options. That plays out tenfold in South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
On the street community police presence, patrol cars, an actual place in the hood where people could go and speak to the City, these are not pie-in-the-sky suggestions. These are actions sourced from research, actions that could sprinkle some hope in South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Action begets action!
Listen to the young people who care enough to voice their concerns. Then do something to help.
Rick Rappaport
Oro Valley
Selling of the border wall
I’m not sure why people are so upset about the selling of the border wall.
Besides the fact that the parts of the wall for sale may be damaged beyond repair, didn’t Mexico pay for the wall?
Matt Somers
Midtown
Trump wall waste
It should be remembered that Trump diverted $ 14.8 billion from the Defense Dept. for much needed equipment and improvements to military bases and used it for the Trump wall.
Spending on the Defense Dept. would be a much better return on investment.
Reprogramming that money, in detail, from Defense Dept. to wall can be found in an NPR article online.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Biden retirement
After months of warnings that DT would destroy democracy, Joe Biden has gone silent, and done nothing to prevent or protect us from authoritarian takeovers. Wake up, Joe. The Supreme Court has given you rare power, so use it, and do some good before you fade into the twilight. Here are some suggestions: 1. Make all DACA recipients legal. 2. Close Guantanamo. (The 16 men, none of whom have been charged with a crime, are costing taxpayers half a billion a year.) Send them to other countries. 3. Stop all bomb shipments to Israel and join the world in condemning their war crimes. 4. Pre-emptive pardons for the January 6 committee. Sure, some might be undone, but I for one would respect you for fighting for truth and justice, and not just sulking silently smiling into Christmas lights.
Cheryl Lockhart
Foothills
Don’t let the door hit ya!
I was shocked by the news report that Senator Kyrsten Sinema was giving a farewell speech today. I thought she had been out of office for the last two years since we as her constituents never really hear anything from her. We probably won’t know what cushy job she moves to in the Washington Beltway. That is okay too!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
Vote no on RTA Next
Thank you Miranda Schubert for your thoughtful column on RTA Next. I will be voting no, because of the 18 years of mismanagement of the current RTA plan by the RTA Board and Executive Director.
With just 18 months to go RTA has a funding gap of $200M with no plan for filling that gap. There will be an additional gap of $240M if RTA Next fails, 22% of the original budget. These shortages exist after the Board committed all available transportation dollars to RTA roadway projects from 2014 to 2029.
The board likes to blame the 2008 recession, but there’s a long list of management failures that created this shortage, such as not adjusting costs for inflation, delaying road projects, lack of action by the citizens oversight committee, waiting too long to adjust for revenue shortfalls, and not seeking public input to better direct limited resources.
There is no RTA Next plan that I will vote for as long as the management structure and personnel remain the same.
Ruth Reiman
Midtown
Forgoing our inalienable rights
Our Founding Fathers found freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press fundamental to our inalienable rights. That’s why those freedoms are listed first in the Bill of Rights. Is it any wonder, therefore, that Trump is going after the media? Threatening the media with lawsuits, even those he doesn’t expect to win, is an attempt to rein in the public’s right to know. He has already indicated that he will eliminate the right to free speech through assembly with military intervention. The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times have already ceded their freedom to Trump by limiting what their papers publish. Trump’s lawsuit against the De Moines Register is bogus because he didn’t like them printing a poll that indicated he was 3 points behind Vice President Harris. By limiting the public’s right to know, what better way can an authoritarian secure power? An ignorant and uninformed public guarantees the goal! Are we ready to forgo our inalienable rights?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
‘Immigrants drives US population growth’ …
… and they is necessary for U.S. prosperity growth. Can’t the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Star afford a good poofreader anymore? And does AI has any grammar? I’s worried that you might be getting other stuff wrong too, while ignorant armies clash by night and the plain is darkling all around us (see Matthew Arnold’s Dover Beach, and try to get a good night’s sleep).
Sherry Machen
Green Valley
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
Thank you Joe Biden for renewing my faith in the 2 government system. One system is of the people, by the people and for the people. People under this system are held accountable for the rules and regulations emanating from the Constitution. The system of the elites, by the elites and for the elites leave the members of this government above the law with no accountability.
You may ask who the members are of this elite second government. They are most politicians.
Remember how they excluded themselves from the affordable care act? The lawyers and Judiciary have no accountability whatsoever. They are self-regulated. Absolute power corrupts-absolutely.
The other members of this elite government are CEOs. No CEO was held responsible for the failures of Enron and Solyndra. No CEO was ever held accountable for the S&L debacle or the cancer caused by cigarettes.
We the people under the Constitution are getting tired if the 2 government system. Put everyone accountable to the laws emanating from the Constitution.
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cynthia Schiesel, East side
Musk has already gone public about blackmailing Republican legislators who don't follow the mandates of DJT. Now DJT has ordered Republicans in Congress to remove their support from the bipartisan spending bill, uncaring about those it would hurt. Time to remember Pastor Martin Niemoller's poem basically paraphrased: they came for the Communists and I said nothing because I wasn't a Communist; they came for the Socialists and I said nothing because I wasn't a Socialist; then for the unionists; then for the Jews. When they came for me, there was no one to stand up. Republicans in office better get their backbones fortified. It won't be long before your bowing and scraping before DJT will not be enough and they will come for you. You were elected to serve and protect the people of the United States -- all of the people. Do your job.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
A recent letter by Loyal Johnson (parroting Trump) that bemoaned the financial loss of the Biden administration’s selling leftover border steel and replacing it to build more wall was soundly rebuffed by John Bingham’s letter. Trump’s 455 miles of 30-foot-tall border wall of steel bollards filled with concrete and rebar welded together at the top cost an estimated $18.4 billion to construct. Mexican coyotes easily cut bollards using hand-held, cordless grinders to create swinging doors for migrants anywhere along the border. A De Walt cordless grinder was on sale at Home Depot for $99 -- 6.6% of the minimum $1,500 each migrant pays to cross. From October 2018 to September 2021, the wall was breached 3,200 times. A full-time Border Patrol crew welds the cuts. Building the ineffective border wall is the real past and future outrageous cost to American taxpayers.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Thad Appelman, Northwest side
Re: December 19 Article: “Hundreds in Gaza disappear after forced separationâ€
Ok, this is genocide (Def: the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group) with some new twists, all cruel and inhumane, and too well-planned to be random. This is a religious war, where Judaism is trying to annihilate Islam. And our solid backing of this is criminal. Those are American warplanes and artillery delivering American weapons to unarmed hungry homeless Palestinianisms. And don’t start with the ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race ... or any race; I do have a hatred of what Hitler did to the Jews, what Putin is doing to the brave Ukrainians, and an equal hatred for what the Israelis are doing in Islamic Gaza. With my tax money and weapons made in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Thad Appelman
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David E. Leon, Vail
Since when does an unelected and dangerous want-to-be Senator or congressman dictate to Congress and cancel the deal to fund the government? I know he gave 45/47 $200 million for Trump's campaign. Now he will run the House and Senate? I remember the scene from, "she wore a yellow ribbon " when Nathan Brittles, played by John Wayne is talking to Pony Who Walks, the Native American chief. Pony Who Walks says to Nathan, "Too late, Nathan, too late." It is too late you voted for this now we have to live with this mistake for 4 years. If there is a God? God help us.
David E. Leon
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David Reynolds, East side
To paraphrase the banker’s argument against the new overdraft rules, we shouldn’t have rules making overdraft fees cost less and be more transparent because in reaction to the lower prices and higher transparency, people will work harder to find another source that they don’t already have an account with.
The only thing worse than that tortured piece of “reasoning†is that there are people that will say it makes sense.
David Reynolds
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cherie Freeman, East side
Well, folks, you voted for Trump to be President but here is what you got: Musk speaks Trump obeys. So who is really President?
Cherie Freeman
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
Trump’s first State of the Union address outlined his "comprehensive and bipartisan" Four Pillars for Immigration Reform. Since Trump is back let’s take a second look.
1. Path to citizenship for DREAMers. The oldest dreamer children are now in their 40s having children of their own. We won't deport them; they’re still just a bargaining chip.
2. Border security. Discussion degenerated into ‘wall’ hysteria where lame-duck Biden is now holding a fire sale of stockpiled wall steel so Trump can’t use it. The issue remains national sovereignty; no one enters without permission.
3. End the diversity visa lottery. The intention was transitioning to a merit-based system welcoming highly skilled immigrants. Biden now has an epiphany announcing relaxation of H-1B work visa restrictions to attract international talent.
4. Restrictions on family-based immigration. No line has yet been drawn on chain migration; everyone is related to someone else, but birthright citizenship will now have its day in court.
Let’s make this happen.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Our next leaders, President Donald Trump and Under-President Elon Musk, will weaponize their command. Hardy men of MAGA hear the call and are checking their guns for possible action.
So, it is no secret that MAGA is arming itself in the event trouble breaks out. Finally, old guys might get to see some action and may pull out their antique bazookas and flamethrowers. They are always good.
One of main aims of Musk is to keep women stifled and in their place. He wants to see that pregnant women remain pregnant. Round the clock protection squads will have the duty of keeping the precious little one, not yet born, safe. Also, to keep watch over the mother-to-be so she doesn’t get any ideas.
Our government, under its two leaders, will chart new waters and show the world that we are made of steel wool now. Marshmallows are out. So is the light. We are a bunch of Busters now.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Leadership: A matter of life and death
Congratulations to retiring Dr. Garcia, whose leadership of Pima County’s health services literally saved lives during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Garcia leaves behind one of the better public health departments in the country working for us. We are fortunate, especially with another potential pandemic appearing on the horizon. I encourage the Board of Supervisors to continue to seek excellence in the delivery of public health services to our communities.
Julia Fonseca
Northwest side
Panhandlers
State Sen. John Kavanagh has introduced legislation to curb panhandlers. If passed, I am relieved to know I will not be subjected to a traffic eyesore — poor people!
Joan Meggitt
Midtown
Poverty cycle starts with children
Re: ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ poverty project exposes need (12/18/2024)
I write to thank Leilani Gomez for her thoughts and work on poverty research, and her citation of the two insightful books by Matthew Desmond — “Evicted†and “Poverty in America.†“Random Family†by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc also offers a devastating perspective on poverty’s effects on children, drug use, crime and the hindrances to the desire to do better.
In order to break the cycle of poverty, I believe we must expand and concentrate resources into programs for children living in poverty. Children in poverty grow into adults in poverty. They are raised by parents, often single, under significant stress, who themselves being ill-equipped, cannot equip their children to compete as contributing adults.
We must do more — increase funding to education, revive the child tax credit, provide free preschool, and so much more. We will all benefit.
Linda Dobbyn
Midtown
What the what now?
To paraphrase the banker’s argument against the new overdraft rules, we shouldn’t have rules making overdraft fees cost less and be more transparent because in reaction to the lower prices and higher transparency, people will work harder to find another source that they don’t already have an account with.
The only thing worse than that tortured piece of “reasoning†is that there are people that will say it makes sense.
David Reynolds
East side
No help from ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ PD
If a red-light camera had been installed at the corner of Golf Links and Kolb last month, it would have caught four cars turning onto Kolb when the left-turn light had been red long enough for the green light for forward traffic on Kolb to have been on for 15 seconds. The last of the four law-breaking cars was a ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ PD vehicle. The officer wasn’t out to stop any of the previous three lawbreakers — he was simply last in the line.
I wish the Star would research how many more accidents there have been at intersections since Prop 201 was passed by an ignorant ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ majority.
People only obey laws when they know someone is watching. If that “someone†is a red-eye camera, with actual picture evidence, enforcement is much more efficient and effective.
E. Kathy Suagee
Benson
No marshmallows
Our next leaders, President Donald Trump and Under-President Elon Musk, will weaponize their command. Hardy men of MAGA hear the call and are checking their guns for possible action.
So, it is no secret that MAGA is arming itself in the event trouble breaks out. Finally, old guys might get to see some action and may pull out their antique bazookas and flamethrowers. They are always good.
One of main aims of Musk is to keep women stifled and in their place. He wants to see that pregnant women remain pregnant. Round the clock protection squads will have the duty of keeping the precious little one, not yet born, safe. Also, to keep watch over the mother-to-be so she doesn’t get any ideas.
Our government, under its two leaders, will chart new waters and show the world that we are made of steel wool now. Marshmallows are out. So is the light. We are a bunch of Busters now.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Healthcare
The column from Kendra Gaines was spot on. I do have UHC which does not cover home nursing care but currently, I am contesting an $8,000 bill from Bayada for home nursing services. One of their nurses unplugged my husband’s hospital bed to plug in her computer and then told me the bed was not working! Outrageous and unacceptable.
Valerie Golembiewski
Southeast side
Romero and corridor redevelopment
The City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥â€™s proposed bogus Corridor Redevelopment plan smells of a reward to Regina Romero’s developer supporters (check her campaign donor list). This attempt to eliminate community input from neighborhoods, reflects her heavy-handed control of the City Council and again to throw a major bone to the development community who have thrown major dollars into her campaign treasure chest. Thanks to community activists like Colette Altaffer, Lois Pawlak, Bonnie Poulos and others for dissecting this foolish attempt and informing our community to take action.
Jerry Anderson
Midtown
Right to know about abortions
So, the public has the “right to know†about such a personal thing as abortion? Well then, I want to know about the men in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ who want to have vasectomies and why. Did they not want children? Have they had any already? How many? By how many different women? What form of contraception did they use when having sex? Financial considerations — they can’t support the kids they already have? Are they married? Divorced? Are they paying child support? To how many women? Have they already had a vasectomy? Was it successful? Medical conditions? Other (please fill in box)? What county do they live in? After all, since there have to be men involved for women to get pregnant (something that seems to be forgotten in the abortion “debateâ€), I have just as much right to know about them as they do about me.
Camille Guice
East side
Cost of Border Wall steel
A recent letter by Loyal Johnson (parroting Trump) that bemoaned the financial loss of the Biden administration’s selling leftover border steel and replacing it to build more wall was soundly rebuffed by John Bingham’s letter. Trump’s 455 miles of 30-foot-tall border wall of steel bollards filled with concrete and rebar welded together at the top cost an estimated $18.4 billion to construct. Mexican coyotes easily cut bollards using hand-held, cordless grinders to create swinging doors for migrants anywhere along the border. A DeWalt cordless grinder was on sale at Home Depot for $99 — 6.6% of the minimum $1,500 each migrant pays to cross. From October 2018 to September 2021, the wall was breached 3,200 times. A full-time Border Patrol crew welds the cuts. Building the ineffective border wall is the real past and future outrageous cost to American taxpayers.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Streaming
California streaming on ESPN+. That’s what we have for at least 6 of the remaining U of A basketball games. How do folks like it so far? 1: It’s a paid subscription. $100 or so. 2: It takes several minutes to load up. 3: You can’t fast forward or rewind. 4: Announcers are second-tier. 5: The worst: One is forced to endure commercials and unable to pause then fast-forward through as we do on regular cable. What a bargain!
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
Who voted for Musk?
Since when does an unelected and dangerous want-to-be Senator or congressman dictate to Congress and cancel the deal to fund the government? I know he gave 45/47 $200 million for Trump’s campaign. Now he will run the House and Senate? I remember the scene from, “she wore a yellow ribbon†when Nathan Brittles, played by John Wayne is talking to Pony Who Walks, the Native American chief. Pony Who Walks says to Nathan, “Too late, Nathan, too late.†It is too late you voted for this now we have to live with this mistake for 4 years. If there is a God? God help us.
David E. Leon
Vail
He will come for you
Musk has already gone public about blackmailing Republican legislators who don’t follow the mandates of DJT. Now DJT has ordered Republicans in Congress to remove their support from the bipartisan spending bill, uncaring about those it would hurt. Time to remember Pastor Martin Niemoller’s poem basically paraphrased: they came for the Communists and I said nothing because I wasn’t a Communist; they came for the Socialists and I said nothing because I wasn’t a Socialist; then for the unionists; then for the Jews. When they came for me, there was no one to stand up. Republicans in office better get their backbones fortified. It won’t be long before your bowing and scraping before DJT will not be enough and they will come for you. You were elected to serve and protect the people of the United States — all of the people. Do your job.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Obedience
Well, folks, you voted for Trump to be President but here is what you got: Musk speaks Trump obeys. So who is really President?
Cherie Freeman
East side
Reforming immigration reform
Trump’s first State of the Union address outlined his “comprehensive and bipartisan†Four Pillars for Immigration Reform. Since Trump is back let’s take a second look.
1. Path to citizenship for DREAMers. The oldest dreamer children are now in their 40s having children of their own. We won’t deport them; they’re still just a bargaining chip.
2. Border security. Discussion degenerated into ‘wall’ hysteria where lame-duck Biden is now holding a fire sale of stockpiled wall steel so Trump can’t use it. The issue remains national sovereignty; no one enters without permission.
3. End the diversity visa lottery. The intention was transitioning to a merit-based system welcoming highly skilled immigrants. Biden now has an epiphany announcing relaxation of H-1B work visa restrictions to attract international talent.
4. Restrictions on family-based immigration. No line has yet been drawn on chain migration; everyone is related to someone else, but birthright citizenship will now have its day in court.
Let’s make this happen.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
By any other name
Re: December 19 Article: “Hundreds in Gaza disappear after forced separationâ€
Ok, this is genocide (Def: the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group) with some new twists, all cruel and inhumane, and too well-planned to be random. This is a religious war, where Judaism is trying to annihilate Islam. And our solid backing of this is criminal. Those are American warplanes and artillery delivering American weapons to unarmed hungry homeless Palestinianisms. And don’t start with the ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race … or any race; I do have a hatred of what Hitler did to the Jews, what Putin is doing to the brave Ukrainians, and an equal hatred for what the Israelis are doing in Islamic Gaza. With my tax money and weapons made in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Thad Appelman
Northwest side
Minimum wage increase
Another non-market driven increase in the minimum wage orchestrated by the City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. It will only drive up consumer prices, especially at restaurants and bars. So, that means I’ll be eating out less, especially within the city limits. And, to keep my total meal cost down, I’ll be tipping less, if at all.
William Russell
Foothills
Two government system
Thank you Joe Biden for renewing my faith in the 2 government system. One system is of the people, by the people and for the people. People under this system are held accountable for the rules and regulations emanating from the Constitution. The system of the elites, by the elites and for the elites leave the members of this government above the law with no accountability.
You may ask who the members are of this elite second government. They are most politicians.
Remember how they excluded themselves from the affordable care act? The lawyers and Judiciary have no accountability whatsoever. They are self-regulated. Absolute power corrupts-absolutely.
The other members of this elite government are CEOs. No CEO was held responsible for the failures of Enron and Solyndra. No CEO was ever held accountable for the S&L debacle or the cancer caused by cigarettes.
We the people under the Constitution are getting tired if the 2 government system. Put everyone accountable to the laws emanating from the Constitution.
Thomas Wenzel
East side
The season of giving
‘Tis the season of giving. Aside from gifts to children and grandchildren, I find the most meaningful gift is a contribution to a local charity that serves our most vulnerable. Having observed their services firsthand as a board member, I personally feel this is Casa de los Niños. There is nothing more heartwarming than a gift that impacts a child’s life. I encourage you to give to a cause that warms your heart.
Jonathan Insel
Foothills
Sinema greatest disappointment
In 2018 I worked for Kirkpatrick’s campaign, which merged into Sinema’s. Sinema turned out to be a fraud. She missed many votes and used her tenure to travel (triathlons around the world are not part of her job description) and lead an extravagant lifestyle. She helped keep the filibuster which prevents real progress. Lord knows ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ has had more than its share of racists like Mecham, election deniers, and all-around crazies elected. But she stands out because they were true believers, no matter how misguided. She knew better and didn’t care.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
Since Trump won the election, I have noticed an escalation of hate for the “otherâ€. The “otherâ€, being anyone who is not aligned with Trump. This intolerance for the other/left has only been emboldened by Trump’s victory. A gloating, sadistic and vicious attitude is clearly seen in our social media platforms by Trump acolytes. This escalation of hate can easily evolve into what happened in Germany in the 1920s: violent clashes between the left and right. The left (and others) had been scapegoated as the problem with Germany. That set the stage for their punishment and the descent into fascism. In the US, long-term propaganda from the right has created a mindset where the left is not only hated but not believed in anything they say or write. The left is portrayed as a putrid force, destroying nations. Fascism always polarizes nations into the righteous “us†versus the evil “them.†Trump’s creation of this mindset has been masterful in a fascist sort of way.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Terry Anderson, Northeast side
I am concerned about transgender females (born male) competing in sports as a female. It started many years ago when a transgender female (born male) competed in tennis tournaments and more recently when a transgender female (born male) won a collegiate swimming event by several laps and took a medal away from a female (born female) who had trained many years for this event, and then there was the volleyball debacle at San Jose were other teams forfeited rather than play against a team with a transgender female (born male).
Have you ever seen a transgender male (born female) fighting to participate in college athletics? Of course not because he would be at a physical disadvantage having never gone through puberty as a male, just as transgender females (born male) are at a physical advantage having gone through puberty as a male. If little Johnny want to play spots he should do so as a male and go through conversion later in life the way Bruce Jenner did.
Terry Anderson
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jose Salgado, Northeast side
What is all the talk about President Biden selling off steel that was supposed to be used for the southern wall that the convict Trump is talking about. Why do we have steel that was supposed to be used for the wall? As I remember the convict’s previous campaign, Mexico was going to pay for the wall. If Mexico was going to pay for the wall we would not have parts of it to sell. They would be Mexico’s problem. Did he flip on that too? President Biden should not be the one the convict is talking to.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Pardon me
With hundreds of individuals convicted of various crimes resulting from the insurrection and riot at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021, we await the predicted pardoning of said criminals by Trump. Will he pardon some, many, or all? He said he wouldn’t pardon those convicted of violent actions — I don’t believe him. Given his own criminal instincts, I believe he will pardon all or most, with the possible exception of those convicts who expressed remorse at their actions. That would be consistent with the perverted sense of truth and justice DJT has shown. He is even insisting that those who serve in his administration state “who won in 2020,†thus ensuring that those he appoints are just as delusional as he is. 2+2=5, night is day, bad is good. Buckle up.
Norman Epstein, MD
Midtown
Do the Ducey deux
When Doug Ducey was governor, he recruited companies from California to relocate in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Most went to Phoenix. The reception in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ was less accommodating. Business gravitated to the valley, not here. That’s fine. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ has its standards. No gentrification. No income inequality. Sure. Now, what if everybody in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ could get ahead? And what if the Hispanics in town could make money faster than the gringos? That opportunity is emerging. In 2024, 60% of the increase in “assets under management†at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ brokers came from the stock market going up (on average). The other 40% came from Mexico. In terms of new money, it all came from Mexico. Pockets of Mexico are booming. America’s “near-shoring†strategy could reinforce the trend. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ is perfectly positioned to be a cross-border gateway. Get that recruiting operation back up and running. Let’s make some money. The future is now.
Walter Ramsley
East side
Re: Dec. 20 letter “Abortion surveillanceâ€
When an acorn fails to become a mighty oak, one may imagine a fictional destiny unachieved, and perhaps even feel a sense of loss, if allowed; but stepping back and considering the grander overview, this projection becomes but one possible imaginary outcome having no reality beyond its imagining. This uniquely human emotional engagement often leads to assignment of disproportionate value to scenarios regarded as unfulfilled. In particular, if an emotional attachment is of sufficient degree, the loss is elevated to the status of unjust deprivation, which, when deliberate intervention is introduced as the cause of this imagined deprivation, evokes a sense of moral conflict that some will embrace as a directive to retaliate in order to assuage that conflict.
But in the end, an acorn is not an oak; and a fetus is not a thinking, perceiving fulfillment of imaginary potential, the loss of which must be avenged. And the only moral violation here is the indefensible intrusion imposed by self-appointed moral arbiters upon the individual freedoms of others.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Federal budget — what a joke!
Once again, there is a temporary federal budget, and people can thus enjoy a “relaxed†holiday season. But nothing has been solved; the key issues have not been addressed; it’s all window-dressing. Trump and Musk failed to muscle the Republicans to submit under their control and to lift all debt ceilings in perpetuity (whew!). The U.S. has already reached a tipping point with $36 trillion in debt. Banks find this very profitable because we all owe them $106,000 per person per year. We tremendously overspend in healthcare, bureaucracy, the military, and, above all, tax cuts for the rich. Trump has plenty of experience with not paying his taxes or debts, like lots of other billionaires that suck our country dry. Once he gets into power, we are set to be on a wild ride down a slippery slope, but voters supported him and a whole bunch of dysfunctional congressmen and -women. Fiscal responsibility is apparently an abominable term across the political aisles these days.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ stops sale of border wall parts
After reading this article, I harken back to the first campaign of the liar-in-chief saying he’d build a border wall and Mexico would pay for it. Why would anyone be upset with selling Mexico’s scrap material? It’s because Mexico invested zero dollars/pesos to the building of the wall that 45 promised. Now I’ve read, “It’s very expensive, and now it’s about double the price of what it would have been six years ago,†Trump said on Monday. ‘â€nd the (Biden) administration is trying to sell it for five cents on the dollar, knowing that we’re getting ready.†Ready for what? Ready to bilk the American military and DPS out of money that could go to our troops and public safety departments? Or for actual infrastucture of the United States, like Biden has done? When you vote for a liar, you get what you voted for.
John Bingham
Northwest side
The scourge of school shootings
Re: “Break nation’s curse of gunfire in our schools.†The Wisconsin State Journal makes many accurate and valid points about the “carnage of school shootings that curses America.†Particularly persuasive and shocking is the comparison of the number of shootings in the U.S. versus those in other developed countries.
However, I was amazed to not see any mention of the primary and specific reasons that account for our outrageous statistics. Chief among those is the omnipresence of guns — more than the U.S. population. Don’t forget the gun industry, the NRA and the lack of universal background checks, resulting in, for example, unstable 18-year-olds being able to purchase AR-15s (24 million in the U.S.) and other semi-automatic weapons. The more guns and the fewer the enforceable laws, the more school shootings.
Peter Bourque
Midtown
Trumps’ Frankenstein
It seems that in Musk, Trump has created his own Frankenstein whom he may not be able to control. I wonder how long the togetherness of these two birds of a feather will last. Already, Musk is enmeshed in foreign policy. In Germany, where Musk has praised the ultra-right AfD (Alternative for Germany), he is already referred to as the “shadow president.â€
Carola Myers
Foothills
Thank you for the Christmas morning paper!
Thank you very much for not publishing a picture of donald trump (lowercase intentional) in your Dec. 25 paper!
Ken Shearer Northeast side
Cause & effect?
Sometimes, people born into poverty live their lives in poverty. Sometimes, people decide they are not going to live in poverty. It may be more probable that a person born into poverty may remain in poverty, but it is not a foregone conclusion. We all have choices and opportunities, though opportunities are more often missed than recognized.
By the reasoning of a Dec. 21 LTE and Dec. 18 article, a child born to an alcoholic parent and fervent religious parent should become a religious alcoholic. Guess again.
All people, except those with mental/physical limitations and/or mental health problems, have opportunities to change their circumstances. Some have more opportunities than others. It’s like the person riding on public transit complaining to someone over his iPhone he can’t afford to buy a car. A choice was made about managing money regarding the iPhone and a car.
James Abels
Midtown
Interesting misinterpretation
My thanks to Phil Lyons for an interesting and remarkably misguided interpretation of my article about murder and medical insurance. The gist of my article was that when our medical “system†puts profit over patients, it’s not surprising that the patients become angry. When I said I did not condone murder, I meant it; that was not simply an “obligatory statement,†as Mr. Lyons suggests. But in our gun-happy culture, surely it’s not surprising that national anger might find a violent way to express itself. Before we go removing me from any school system, or telling our Opinion page editor to go to the Food section, perhaps Mr. Lyons might learn to read with greater care.
Kendra Gaines
Foothills
Try humor
The terrible Trump conspiracy warrants little shafts of ridicule against well-deserved targets that highlight MAGA’s crudeness, meanness, and the poverty of their thought.
The whole motley bunch deserves to be mocked and laughed at for their fruitcake pretensions of making America great by tearing down whatever is fine and decent and leaving behind a troubled state of mind for the rest of us.
For now, lies aplenty and intimidation are playing well with Trump’s approval. But when his unrestrained followers and the millions of his mistaken voters discovered that while they were giving voice praising our symbol of freedom, the Eagle, our next president was busy plucking the Golden Goose.
In time, there may be another march on Washington, but this time it will be the unions, the farmers, the middle class, and anyone else who feels aggrieved by Trump and his out-of-control regime.
So, our best offense here is ridicule, wit, and satire. Anger is a dud. Arguing is a loser. Try humor.
Ron Lancaster
North side
World problem
For many years, the disagreement over whether there is global warming or climate change has brought neither resolution nor consensus. Yet, the world continues to have drought and increasingly bad storms. The world migration is evidence that people are trying to find better places to live. The bottom line, whether or not you agree with climate change, is that there are not enough resources to support the world population. The result of this has been seen countless times in history; the needy wage war to obtain a bigger share of the available commodities. The incoming administration needs to look at this instead of retribution for past perceived offenses. This means better leaders are needed than what has been proposed by the new administration. If the issue is not addressed, unlawful immigration will lead to armed conflict with those who think they deserve more of what they think we have.
Charles Hammond
Northwest side
- Terry Etherton Special to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
We are quickly approaching Shen Yun season again. It is impossible to avoid the ads on the internet, billboards and flyers.
Shen Yun is scheduled to perform in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ in February. They will perform at The Ronstadt Performing Arts Center. Here is what the public should know: Shen Yun is currently under investigation by the State of New York for labor violations. Apparently, they have hired under-age dancers who make very little money and who are harassed if they choose to leave. They are often denied medical attention. Very much like Scientology. Shen Yun is currently being sued by ex-dancers for abuse. A recent NY Times investigation revealed numerous cases of abuse of the dancers. The article titled “Behind the Pageantry of Shen Yun, Untreated Injuries and Emotional Abuse†is available on the internet.
Shen Yun performers are members of Falun Gong, a far-right organization whose leader, Li Zonghzi, claims to have godlike powers. He claims that he can levitate. He has made many racist and anti-LGBT statements. He has often said that the children of mixed-race couples cannot get into heaven. Li claims that race mixing in humans is part of an alien plot to drive humanity further from the gods. He is a very wealthy con man who lives in a heavily guarded compound in upstate New York. Shen Yun has the Epoch Times as their mouthpiece. The Epoch Times is a far-right publication that strongly supported Trump in 2016, 2020 and 2024. They consider Trump a savior because they believe he is hard on China. Among those who endorse the Epoch Times have been Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn and others from the MAGA world. They continue to spread the “big lie.â€
The Chief Financial Officer of the Epoch Times was recently arrested for stealing $65 million from the Epoch Times. These people are not who they want you to believe they are. Supporting Shen Yun is supporting a very right-wing organization which is currently under investigation for abuse.
The Shen Yun performance is anti-science, anti-woman and anti-LGBT. The far-right message is there for all to see. This is not just a dance performance. Do your homework. Google “Shen Yun controversy†and read about who these folks really are. Please let your elected officials know that this kind of thing should not be supported by the City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ and Pima County.
- Daniel Pryor, West side
The letter writer wants input from Daily Star readers on DEI, "Christmas thoughts" (Dec. 26):
Diversity: Forces hiring practices in the workforce to be accomplished according to race, not by merit. Skill level is secondary to race-quota criteria. Social influencer Robby Starbuck has caused major corporations to drop their DEI principles. Examples are Tractor Supply, John Deere, Harley Davidson, Lowe's, Ford. Equity: Some high schools have removed certain education standards. Students are graduating according to equal outcomes instead of proficiency in math, language, etc. In 2021, Oregon tried this in their public high schools but have since reversed such policy. Inclusion: LGBTQ lifestyles being implemented into corporate policies because of pressure from the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. Robby Starbuck also caused Molson Coors, Toyota, Walmart, and Caterpillar Inc. to drop the Corporate Equality Index from their corporate policies.
Call this the cases of guilty consciences, but it works.
Daniel Pryor
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Charles Hammond, Northwest side
For many years the disagreement over whether there is global warming or climate change has brought neither resolution nor consensus. Yet, the world continues to have drought and increasingly bad storms. The world migration is evidence that people are trying to find better places to live. The bottom line, whether or not you agree with climate change, is that there are not enough resources to support the world population. The result of this has been seen countless time in history; the needy wage war to obtain a bigger share of the available commodities. The incoming administration needs to look at this instead of retribution for past perceived offenses. This means better leaders are needed than what has been proposed by the new administration. If the issue is not addressed, unlawful immigration will lead to armed conflict with those who think they deserve more of what they think we have.
Charles Hammond
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Norman Epstein, MD, Midtown
With hundreds of individuals convicted of various crimes resulting from the insurrection and riot at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021, we await the predicted pardoning of said criminals by Trump. Will he pardon some, many, or all? He said he wouldn’t pardon those convicted of violent actions — I don’t believe him. Given his own criminal instincts, I believe he will pardon all or most, with the possible exception of those convicts who expressed remorse at their actions. That would be consistent with the perverted sense of truth and justice DJT has shown. He is even insisting that those who serve in his administration state “who won in 2020†thus ensuring that those he appoints are just as delusional as he is. 2+2=5, night is day, bad is good. Buckle up.
Norman Epstein, MD
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Peter Bourque, Midtown
Re: “Break nation’s curse of gunfire in our schools.†The Wisconsin State Journal makes many accurate and valid points about the “carnage of school shootings that curses America.†Particularly persuasive and shocking is the comparison of the number of shootings in the U.S. versus those in other developed countries.
However, I was amazed to not see any mention of the primary and specific reasons that account for our outrageous statistics. Chief among those is the omnipresence of guns -- more than the U.S. population. Don’t forget the gun industry, the NRA and the lack of universal background checks, resulting in, for example, unstable 18-year-olds being able to purchase AR-15s (24 million in the U.S.) and other semi-automatic weapons. The more guns and the fewer the enforceable laws, the more school shootings.
Peter Bourque
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
After reading this article I harken back to the first campaign of the liar in chief saying he'd build a border wall and Mexico would pay for it. Why would anyone be upset with selling Mexico's scrap material? It's because Mexico invested zero dollars/pesos to the building of the wall that 45 promised. Now I've read, "It's very expensive, and now it's about double the price of what it would have been six years ago," Trump said on Monday. '"nd the (Biden) administration is trying to sell it for 5 cents on the dollar, knowing that we're getting ready." Ready for what? Ready to bilk the American military and DPS out of money that could go to our troops and public safety departments? Or for actual infrastucture of the United States, like Biden has done? When you vote for a liar, you get what you voted for.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Robert Gavlak, Midtown
When an acorn fails to become a mighty oak, one may imagine a fictional destiny unachieved, and perhaps even feel a sense of loss, if allowed; but stepping back and considering the grander overview, this projection becomes but one possible imaginary outcome having no reality beyond its imagining. This uniquely human emotional engagement often leads to assignment of disproportionate value to scenarios regarded as unfulfilled. In particular, if an emotional attachment is of sufficient degree, the loss is elevated to the status of unjust deprivation, which, when deliberate intervention is introduced as the cause of this imagined deprivation, evokes a sense of moral conflict that some will embrace as a directive to retaliate in order to assuage that conflict.
But in the end, an acorn is not an oak; and a fetus is not a thinking, perceiving fulfillment of imaginary potential, the loss of which must be avenged. And the only moral violation here is the indefensible intrusion imposed by self-appointed moral arbiters upon the individual freedoms of others.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
Once again, there is a temporary federal budget, and people can thus enjoy a "relaxed" holiday season. But nothing has been solved; the key issues have not been addressed; it’s all window-dressing. Trump and Musk failed to muscle the Republicans to submit under their control and to lift all debt ceilings in perpetuity (whew!). The US has already reached a tipping point with $36 trillion in debt. Banks find this very profitable because we all owe them $106,000 per person per year. We tremendously overspend in healthcare, bureaucracy, the military, and, above all, tax cuts for the rich. Trump has plenty of experience with not paying his taxes or debts, like lots of other billionaires that suck our country dry. Once he gets into power, we are set to be on a wild ride down a slippery slope, but voters supported him and a whole bunch of dysfunctional congressmen and -women. Fiscal responsibility is apparently an abominable term across the political aisles these days.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Carola Myers, Foothills
It seems that in Musk, Trump has created his own Frankenstein whom he may not be able to control. I wonder how long the togetherness of these two birds of a feather will last. Already Musk is enmeshed in foreign policy. In Germany, where Musk has praised the ultra-right AfD (Alternative for Germany), he is already referred to as the “shadow president.â€
Carola Myers
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
More like this...
- Diann Wilson, Northeast side
I agree with much of what Hartman has to say, but I cannot support “I’m done with outrage. It’s not healthy or productive.â€
As Dylan Thomas said, “Do not go gentle into that good night.†I hope that all of us who are experiencing a similar reaction to the election results will rage, rage…
Diann Wilson
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Rex Witherspoon, SaddleBrooke
Here are some book ideas sure to please the MAGAs in your life:
No brains, no headaches, Marjorie Taylor Greene
I will only drink on days that end with "Y", Pete Hegseth
Hunting with your dog is a blast, Kristi Noem
Sex, drugs and hypocrisy, Matt Gaetz
Money doesn't care who owns it, Elon Musk
Diagonally parked in a parallel universe, Rudy Giuliani
Who needs vaccines that save lives? RFK
Killers, rapists, murderers, drug smugglers and hotel maids, Steven Miller
Living under Al-Assad's regime is a gas, Tulsi Gabbard.
Oligarchy, look for it in 2025, Donald Trump
Rex Witherspoon
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Kenneth Haber, Northwest side
I looked at the January calendar. I thought I was mistaken. The 3rd Monday in January is the MLK holiday. This year it falls on January 20. January 20 is the date the incoming felon is scheduled for inauguration. Celebrating the birthday of perhaps the most significant civil and human rights advocate this country has produced on the same day that this country's leading misogynist, bigot, liar and felon takes office is a horror. I am certain MLK would be appalled. Time to re-read "I have a dream" and hope.
Kenneth Haber
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Deborah Nelson, SaddleBrooke
So, the angry, senile puppet currently occupying the White House, or his handlers, have commuted death sentences for 37 federal prisoners. These criminals have been convicted of the most heinous crimes, including raping and murdering children, by juries of their peers. For self-serving reasons he left three to their fate.
He doesn’t believe in the death penalty for these violent criminals, but he’s 100% behind killing hundreds of thousands of innocent babies in the womb.
How do you on the left justify that?
Deborah Nelson
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- James Tuthill, Oro Valley
I’ve been reading for several years the criticisms and attacks on Senator Sinema. Many focused on her opposition to eliminating the filibuster. Senator Schumer, cheered on by the far left, promised to eliminate it if he could. Is he eating crow now?
Remember that old adage: Be careful what you wish for? Where would we -- and all you Sinema detractors -- be if the filibuster had been eliminated? Just as it has prevented some extreme left positions from being enacted, it hopefully will prevent extreme right positions being adopted. How would you like a national prohibition on abortion?
Senator Sinema was correct to praise the filibuster in her farewell remarks. It prevents extreme positions from both parties and encourages compromise. That’s what I support. And I’m glad the filibuster remains in place, and I will oppose Republican attempts to remove it too.
James Tuthill
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
The terrible Trump conspiracy warrants little shafts of ridicule against well-deserved targets that highlight MAGA’s crudeness, meanness, and the poverty of their thought.
The whole motley bunch deserves to be mocked and laughed at for their fruitcake pretensions of making America great by tearing down whatever is fine and decent and leaving behind a troubled state of mind for the rest of us.
For now, lies aplenty and intimidation are playing well with Trump’s approval. But when his unrestrained followers and the millions of his mistaken voters discovered that while they were giving voice praising our symbol of freedom, the Eagle, our next president was busy plucking the Golden Goose.
In time there may be another march on Washington, but this time it will be the unions, the farmers, the middle class, and anyone else who feels aggrieved by Trump and his out-of-control regime.
So, our best offense here is ridicule, wit, and satire. Anger is a dud. Arguing is a loser. Try humor.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Calendar mistake
I looked at the January calendar. I thought I was mistaken. The 3rd Monday in January is the MLK holiday. This year it falls on January 20. January 20 is the date the incoming felon is scheduled for inauguration. Celebrating the birthday of perhaps the most significant civil and human rights advocate this country has produced on the same day that this country’s leading misogynist, bigot, liar and felon takes office is a horror. I am certain MLK would be appalled. Time to re-read “I have a dream†and hope.
Kenneth Haber
Northwest side
Panhandlers — poor people
I read two letters to the editor in Saturday’s edition of the Star. The first was “Panhandlers†describing a traffic eyesore — poor people. When I pass a person with a sign for help I wonder what in their life brought them to this point. I ask God to bless that person.
I might have been considered poor when growing up. Our family did not have a large bank account but we had love immeasurable, owned our home, attended good public schools, and attended church each Sunday where the love of God available to all was proclaimed.
The second article was “Poverty Cycle starts with children.†The writer gave excellent steps that we must take in order to break the cycle of poverty.
One article showed disdain for the poor, the other caring and concern. What can I do for the poor? There are funds to which we can contribute to help the poor. Let this be considered in our Christmas and yearly giving.
Mercedese Bartlett
Midtown
Thank you, Camille Guice
I read with enthusiastic agreement to Camille Guice’s recent letter regarding the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ state reporting information on abortions. She makes an excellent and intelligent point that statistics on men’s vasectomies should also be in this report. She also listed the questions that should be asked of men prior to their vasectomy. If we are documenting women’s health in this way, then we have the right to have statistics of men’s sexual health. Gov. Katie Hobbs is calling for legislators to repeal the state law that requires an annual abortion report, saying that it infringes on patients’ privacy. The governor also pointed out that no other medical procedure has this same type of reporting. We need to keep the pressure on our legislators for this change to be made.
Sharon Winderl
Midtown
Biden’s parting shame
So, the angry, senile puppet currently occupying the White House, or his handlers, have commuted death sentences for 37 federal prisoners. These criminals have been convicted of the most heinous crimes, including raping and murdering children, by juries of their peers. For self-serving reasons he left three to their fate.
He doesn’t believe in the death penalty for these violent criminals, but he’s 100% behind killing hundreds of thousands of innocent babies in the womb.
How do you on the left justify that?
Deborah Nelson
SaddleBrooke
Christmas thoughts
At this time of year, when we engage in a public celebration of peace, love, and Christ’s teachings, I find it interesting that a majority of American voters (including a purported 80% of Evangelical Christians) has decided to replace DEI (Diversity, Equality and Inclusion) with HIV (Hatred, Intolerance and Vindictiveness). This makes me wonder WWJS (what would Jesus say). Perhaps one of your readers can help me understand.
Steven Brown
Midtown
Sinema was correct, Schumer wrong
I’ve been reading for several years the criticisms and attacks on Senator Sinema. Many focused on her opposition to eliminating the filibuster. Senator Schumer, cheered on by the far left, promised to eliminate it if he could. Is he eating crow now?
Remember that old adage: Be careful what you wish for? Where would we — and all you Sinema detractors — be if the filibuster had been eliminated? Just as it has prevented some extreme left positions from being enacted, it hopefully will prevent extreme right positions being adopted. How would you like a national prohibition on abortion?
Senator Sinema was correct to praise the filibuster in her farewell remarks. It prevents extreme positions from both parties and encourages compromise. That’s what I support. And I’m glad the filibuster remains in place, and I will oppose Republican attempts to remove it too.
James Tuthill
Oro Valley
UofA Athletic Department
Is anyone else scratching their heads about Greg Hansen’s article claiming the Athletic Department is worth $532M? And that the U of A is worth twice is much as ASU? Seems like a sorcerer’s blend from on-field success to NIL spending to Horny Toad tails. A large part of the determination apparently is based on recent championships. As everyone knows from investing, past performance does not guarantee future results. Maybe the U of A could sell the department, earn $40M a year alone on interest, and let one of the private equity firms manage the program. One thing we know about PE is that they always get their money first while cutting back on services and eliminating jobs.
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
Re letter: Foul Ball
If you think back to before the election and all of the lies the liberals were spewing about Trump and, already, there are more lies attempting to influence people. The quote: “Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way.†Funny, it sounds like President Trump has taken office and that Musk is nothing more than an average citizen. Of course, for those of us that actually remember reality, while Biden has been in office, the voters have experienced 25% inflation thanks to Joe’s brilliant understanding of the economy. At the same time, the world is teetering on the edge of World War III thanks to the lack of leadership by Biden with North Korea providing troops and Iran terrorists running wild with Obama’s money. And let’s not forget the change in crime and punishment thanks to Biden giving pardons and clemency to criminals with a judge selling imprisonment for income. Yes, it is time to give President Trump another opportunity.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
MAGA best-sellers
Here are some book ideas sure to please the MAGAs in your life:
No brains, no headaches, Marjorie Taylor Greene
I will only drink on days that end with “Yâ€, Pete Hegseth
Hunting with your dog is a blast, Kristi Noem
Sex, drugs and hypocrisy, Matt Gaetz
Money doesn’t care who owns it, Elon Musk
Diagonally parked in a parallel universe, Rudy Giuliani
Who needs vaccines that save lives? RFK
Killers, rapists, murderers, drug smugglers and hotel maids, Steven Miller
Living under Al-Assad’s regime is a gas, Tulsi Gabbard.
Oligarchy, look for it in 2025, Donald Trump
Rex Witherspoon
SaddleBrooke
Re: What do we do now?
I agree with much of what Hartman has to say, but I cannot support “I’m done with outrage. It’s not healthy or productive.â€
As Dylan Thomas said, “Do not go gentle into that good night.†I hope that all of us who are experiencing a similar reaction to the election results will rage, rage…
Diann Wilson
Northeast side
- James Dolian, SaddleBrooke
While we Americans have been preoccupied with the election and the impending domestic chaos, the interminable carnage continues in Gaza and the West Bank with no end in sight. More than 45,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed and perhaps as many as 10,000 more lie buried in the rubble. More than 700 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank where illegal Israeli settlements continue to proliferate. It is likely that the incoming American administration will resume the sale of offensive weapons to Israel. As this catastrophe progresses, it is becoming abundantly clear that the ultimate Israeli objective is to incorporate both the West Bank and Gaza into the State of Israel. The Palestinians that manage to survive this debacle will be rendered stateless with no civil rights because they will not be afforded Israeli citizenship.
I reject the notion that opposition to an imperial Israel is inherently antisemitic. Israel's behavior has rightly received widespread condemnation in the international community.
James Dolian
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- William Winkelman, Southeast side
Trump wants to retake the Canal from Panama, arguing that Panama has been unfair to the U.S.
How about returning Texas, which President Grant himself called a land grab from an unjust war that stained his military career, and all the land the U.S. forced Mexico to sell it at a distress price? Or return Hawaii to its native population? Or allow Canada, a more natural owner for Alaska, to buy it for cheap? Or give back to the Indians all the land the US wrested from them? The list could go on.
William Winkelman
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Richard Rebl, East side
For Mr. Elon Musk – the man who has everything and can buy anything – President Mr. Donald J. Trump.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Dave Bertagnoli, West side
Re the recent WSJ reporting on Prez Biden: As confirmed by the Trump/Biden debate, Biden has obviously slowed mentally and physically the last few years. My take on that is a "slowed" Biden was still far more effective than Trump. Any way you look at it Biden signed legislation that Trump only said he was going to pass. Infrastructure Week being the obvious best example. This may be a case of Biden hiring more competent staff but whatever the reason, Biden got things done for the betterment of the country. And regarding hiring competent staff, Trump seems to be going to great lengths to find the most incompetent people to fill out his administration, such as an intelligence chief who is unacquainted with reality. I could go on. Can't wait for Trump to deport all the farm help and construction workers. Do-over anyone?
Dave Bertagnoli
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Kathy Krucker, Midtown
What a shocker that no GOP senators signed on to this released Supreme Court ethics report. Why would GOP senators support a SCOTUS code of conduct when they seem to embrace many of Trump’s ethically challenged and outrageously unqualified cabinet and ambassador selections?
The GOP seems perfectly OK for the highest court in the land having the lowest of low ethical standards. This recent report uncovered even more deplorable SCOTUS ethical issues. Accepting lavish gifts and travel and failing to recuse on conflicts of interest, SCOTUS flaunts that they are above the law and will continue to wallow in their ethical abyss.
Good on Dem senators for trying to enact the Supreme Court Ethics Act. Shame on GOP senators for abdicating their duty to ensure that SCOTUS rulings are made with impartiality and adherence to the bedrock of our Constitution that no one is above the law.
SCOTUS will fit right in on what will be a Trump swamp 2.0.
Kathy Krucker
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- phil lyons, Foothills
I'm all for freedom of speech and the press, but this opinion piece should never have been printed. With the obligatory words of "...I do not condone murder", the author of this piece then spends the rest of her article basically condoning it. Such phrases as "...the (hope) that the drastic measure...might lead to some positive reform." She finished with (referencing the killing of the CEO) and "surprised"? "No. If anything, we should be a bit surprised that it didn't happen sooner."
The author of this screed in described as a "ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ educator." I'm not a fan of "cancel culture" but if she's a teacher in any school system, she should be removed. At risk of a sentence which may lead to this not getting published (so you can remove it if desired), the editor who selected this article, I'd suggest, might be reassigned to, say, the food section.
phil lyons
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Biden and Trump
Re the recent WSJ reporting on Prez Biden: As confirmed by the Trump/Biden debate, Biden has obviously slowed mentally and physically the last few years. My take on that is a “slowed†Biden was still far more effective than Trump. Any way you look at it Biden signed legislation that Trump only said he was going to pass. Infrastructure Week being the obvious best example. This may be a case of Biden hiring more competent staff but whatever the reason, Biden got things done for the betterment of the country. And regarding hiring competent staff, Trump seems to be going to great lengths to find the most incompetent people to fill out his administration, such as an intelligence chief who is unacquainted with reality. I could go on. Can’t wait for Trump to deport all the farm help and construction workers. Do-over anyone?
Dave Bertagnoli
West side
Positive letters welcome
Once again, the holidays see letters from Messrs. Hancock, Johnson, McConnell and Sollenberger, all extremely negative towards those and things they disagree with. We get it: You support Trump. Okay, but it would be much more productive if instead of a constant barrage of negativism, you would write something more positive. Couple of examples: Many of us are very concerned about Trump’s proposed tariffs. If you think those tariffs would be a good idea, why not tell us why you support them. Still others of us are very concerned about the effects of Trump’s promises of mass deportations. If you think such deportations are a good idea, please tell us why you think so and not just in broad statements, but specifically and addressing the problems many see with his policy on that. More positive discussion please and less railing about how bad those who disagree with you are.
Michael Price
Midtown
Murder and medical insurance
I’m all for freedom of speech and the press, but this opinion piece should never have been printed. With the obligatory words of “... I do not condone murderâ€, the author of this piece then spends the rest of her article basically condoning it. Such phrases as “... the (hope) that the drastic measure ... might lead to some positive reform.†She finished with (referencing the killing of the CEO) and “surprisedâ€? “No. If anything, we should be a bit surprised that it didn’t happen sooner.â€
The author of this screed in described as a “ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ educator.†I’m not a fan of “cancel culture†but if she’s a teacher in any school system, she should be removed. At risk of a sentence which may lead to this not getting published (so you can remove it if desired), the editor who selected this article, I’d suggest, might be reassigned to, say, the food section.
Phil Lyons
Foothills
SCOTUS will be part of Trump’s swamp
What a shocker that no GOP senators signed on to this released Supreme Court ethics report. Why would GOP senators support a SCOTUS code of conduct when they seem to embrace many of Trump’s ethically challenged and outrageously unqualified cabinet and ambassador selections?
The GOP seems perfectly OK for the highest court in the land having the lowest of low ethical standards. This recent report uncovered even more deplorable SCOTUS ethical issues. Accepting lavish gifts and travel and failing to recuse on conflicts of interest, SCOTUS flaunts that they are above the law and will continue to wallow in their ethical abyss.
Good on Dem senators for trying to enact the Supreme Court Ethics Act. Shame on GOP senators for abdicating their duty to ensure that SCOTUS rulings are made with impartiality and adherence to the bedrock of our Constitution that no one is above the law.
SCOTUS will fit right in on what will be a Trump swamp 2.0.
Kathy Krucker
Midtown
Encouraging connection and support
Transitioning from Veterans Day to the holiday season, we continue to honor those who have served in the military.
We recognize unique challenges the holidays can bring for our Veteran community, it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone. We encourage Veterans to stay connected with loved ones, manage expectations, and reach out for help when needed. If you’re a Veteran in crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (Press 1) for 24/7 confidential support.
This holiday season let’s reflect on the sacrifices made by our brave service members and express gratitude for our freedoms and know that supporting our Veterans is not just a holiday activity but a year-round commitment that strengthens our community and honors those who have served.
Take control of your health and register for VA Healthcare today and ensure you receive the support you’ve earned through your dedicated service!
Visit or contact SAVAHCS at 520-792-1450 for care.
Jaison Bloom
South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Fair is fair
Trump wants to retake the Canal from Panama, arguing that Panama has been unfair to the U.S.
How about returning Texas, which President Grant himself called a land grab from an unjust war that stained his military career, and all the land the U.S. forced Mexico to sell it at a distress price? Or return Hawaii to its native population? Or allow Canada, a more natural owner for Alaska, to buy it for cheap? Or give back to the Indians all the land the US wrested from them? The list could go on.
William Winkelman
Southeast side
Bernard Lagat
A big thank you to Mackenzie Dilworth and the Daily Star for Monday’s piece on Bernard Lagat. In this day and age of Name, Image, Likeness and the millions of dollars pumped into the revenue sports, it is refreshing to see this article on Bernard. I do not know Bernard personally, but in the chance interactions with him, his warm demeanor has always impressed me. Watching him interact with his athletes makes one proud of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ cross country and track and field. Keep up the great leadership Bernard, a coach who truly leads by example.
Jerry Wagner
Vail
And the band played on
While we Americans have been preoccupied with the election and the impending domestic chaos, the interminable carnage continues in Gaza and the West Bank with no end in sight. More than 45,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed and perhaps as many as 10,000 more lie buried in the rubble. More than 700 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank where illegal Israeli settlements continue to proliferate. It is likely that the incoming American administration will resume the sale of offensive weapons to Israel. As this catastrophe progresses, it is becoming abundantly clear that the ultimate Israeli objective is to incorporate both the West Bank and Gaza into the State of Israel. The Palestinians that manage to survive this debacle will be rendered stateless with no civil rights because they will not be afforded Israeli citizenship.
I reject the notion that opposition to an imperial Israel is inherently antisemitic. Israel’s behavior has rightly received widespread condemnation in the international community.
James Dolian
SaddleBrooke
In praise of Christmas cards
I believe that Christmas cards are a wonderful thing.
I love sending them, I love receiving them,
They may be religious, or humorous, or light-hearted.
They may be the only contact of the year between old friends and sometimes distant relatives.
We know that expressing gratitude in letters and cards have been found to boost positive emotions in both the receiver and sender.
Sending Christmas cards is a nice way to connect with people you care about.
Sending Christmas cards is a tradition with several heartwarming reasons behind it:
A physical card in the mail can brighten someone’s day and bring a sense of joy during the holiday season.
It shows that you took the time and effort to reach out.
For many, sending and receiving Christmas cards is a cherished tradition that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Christmas cards offer a unique way to express care and connection during the holiday season.
Most cards end with those magical words: “Merry Christmasâ€.
Tom McGorray
Northwest side
The gift that keeps on giving
For Mr. Elon Musk — the man who has everything and can buy anything — President Mr. Donald J. Trump.
Richard Rebl
East side
A running ambassador
The recent AZ Daily Star’s Sports section’s article “Lagat brings legacy of excellence†brought a smile. Reading of Bernard Lagat’s journey to his present role as cross-country and track coach at the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, I was struck by his determination as an athlete and dedication to running and coaching. His achievements as a five-time Olympian for both Kenya and the United States, display unique talents. More than once I saw Lagat running the loop or near Sabino High School, where I once mistook his fluid form for a deer in the early morning light. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ and the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ are fortunate to have such a stellar role model as Bernard Lagat.
Roger Shanley
East side
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way. They are not blowing smoke either. This country is likely to be set afire.
Our new leaders, brave beyond measure, are ready to roll out the first of their critical edicts, cutting Social Security, Medicare, and VA benefits. This proves that lunacy is part of their management style.
But it could cause MAGA to hang up their hats or wish they were helmets. They know there is likely a blowback from Democrats who will throw scorn and words of disdain their way in a rain of no end. MAGA depends on those monthly funds to survive and make their truck payments. In fact, everyone will suffer by taking away those social programs.
Now, MAGA men and women know a rat when they see one. They claim they were deceived. Trump cast a spell with his bravado, and they fell into it. Soon, many of them will take the antidote and be free.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Beth Dingman, Green Valley
Lots of people, it seems, wanted change. Biden was what, too old, not dynamic enough? But people didn’t want gender identities to change, or male privilege to change. Maybe they just wanted the price of eggs to change.
Well, guess what, this is the real change you voted for: the change from a democratic form of government with three independent bodies: executive, legislative and an independent judiciary; to an autocratic one, with the supreme leader (Trump or Musk — still not clear) ruling over everything through threats, intimidation, and money, lots of money.
Already Donald Jr. is talking about maybe suspending elections in four years (maybe he thinks he can inherit the throne) and certainly Musk and Trump have started threatening the few Republicans who still have a backbone, with financing those who will do their bidding in the next congressional election.
You have handed over our government to two power-hungry megalomaniacs. You may like the change, but I, for one, am scared to death.
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Loran Hancock, Northwest side
Biden is again pushing to forgive billions of dollars in students loans despite the Supreme Court's ruling that he cannot do it. But why can't students pay back the loans they asked for, once they graduate and get jobs in the real world? Maybe the cost of living under Biden, coupled with making student loan payments, exceeds the money they make from the jobs they got after graduating. If so, why can't students find good jobs based on their college education? The problem is that universities no longer educate. They are fermentation tanks for social activism and indoctrination instead of learning and functional capability. We no longer hear about excellence in academics from our universities. Instead, the news is all about student protests, DEI initiatives, and examples of blatant plagiarism, none of which promotes educational excellence and academic capability. Maybe the time has come to clear the distractions and return to an environment of learning and holding both faculties and students accountable.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Tim Wernette, Foothills
We all want power and control over our own lives. The irony of power and control over others is that it almost always results in violence and destruction of the other. We see this on the interpersonal level, when someone trying to control their partner usually results in domestic violence. We see this on the international stage with wars between countries: Isreal's desire to control the Palestinians is destroying Gaza; Putin's desire to control Ukraine is destroying Ukraine. Here in our country, power over results in discrimination and bias against others we fear and try to control, resulting in their misery and death. The ultimate irony is that power and control over others also destroys those who try to control. We're likely to see lots of politically controlling actions with the new federal administration over women, immigrants, and other marginalized communities who already lack control over their own lives.
Tim Wernette
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Susan Ulanoff, Oro Valley
In his letter to the editor ("By Any Other Name") published December 21, 2024, Thad Appelman writes: "And don't start with that 'antisemitism' crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race..." Good to know, except that Judaism is not a race. "To Jews," wrote Daniel Schwartz on Quora, "being Jewish generally refers to religion. It can also mean a cultural heritage and a family." Please, Mr. Appelman, do your research prior to your ranting.
Susan Ulanoff
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Joseph Stanley, Northeast side
A recent letter bemoaned the appointment of Kash Patel as FBI Director. Really? Trump’s public disdain for the FBI made such a corrosive appointment inevitable, the only qualification loyalty to the Dear Leader. Other egregious, clown-car appointments include Tulsi Gabbard in Intelligence and the lunacy of RFK Jr., whose discredited vaccine theories will surely adversely impact many innocent young lives.
So, congratulations conservatives. Your disregard of the credible and professional warnings of dangers of a second Trump term accomplished what no foreign adversary could. You still chose chaos and tyranny over competence and morality. Vengeful attacks on media and public officials now underway are only the tip of the looming onslaught. Trump may soon exit the stage due to mental and physical decline but his toxic agenda will probably continue via his supporters. The real victims are our children who will pay the price for this shameful and historic collapse of integrity by the electorate.
Joseph Stanley
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Dennis Abrams, Northwest side
For all of you who continue to moan and object to the casualties in Gaza, here is some historical perspective as well as some common-sense perspective. All wars produce civilian casualties, some inadvertent and some intentional. In World War II just prior to D-Day, the allies bombed numerous French cities in the area hoping to get at the German army. Many towns were destroyed, and thousands of Frenchmen were killed and wounded. Germany was repeatedly carpet-bombed, destroying cities and thousands of civilians. And then we have Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a deliberate attack on civilians in an attempt to convince the Empire of Japan that continuing the war was futile. These were not acts of genocide, but the gas chambers and ovens were.
Hamas attacked Israel and Israel went to war with Hamas, the political terrorist government of Gaza whose people overwhelmingly support Hamas. It is Hamas who advocates genocide with their stated intention to wipe Israel from the face of the earth. Wake up!
Dennis Abrams
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Sean Bruner, West side
It is distressing to hear that the richest man in the world, not elected to any position, is mandating a $3 trillion cut in the federal budget, which will impose unimaginable hardship on millions, especially those hard-working, experienced federal employees who will be laid off. The only realistic solution to the budget deficit is tax reform, making billionaires like Musk, Trump and Ramaswamy pay their fair share to the country that made their success possible.
Sean Bruner
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Federal deficit
It is distressing to hear that the richest man in the world, not elected to any position, is mandating a $3 trillion cut in the federal budget, which will impose unimaginable hardship on millions, especially those hard-working, experienced federal employees who will be laid off. The only realistic solution to the budget deficit is tax reform, making billionaires like Musk, Trump and Ramaswamy pay their fair share to the country that made their success possible.
Sean Bruner
West side
Not a small error
In his letter to the editor (“By Any Other Nameâ€) published December 21, 2024, Thad Appelman writes: “And don’t start with that ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race...†Good to know, except that Judaism is not a race. “To Jews,†wrote Daniel Schwartz on Quora, “being Jewish generally refers to religion. It can also mean a cultural heritage and a family.†Please, Mr. Appelman, do your research prior to your ranting.
Susan Ulanoff
Oro Valley
Change
Lots of people, it seems, wanted change. Biden was what, too old, not dynamic enough? But people didn’t want gender identities to change, or male privilege to change. Maybe they just wanted the price of eggs to change.
Well, guess what, this is the real change you voted for: the change from a democratic form of government with three independent bodies: executive, legislative and an independent judiciary; to an autocratic one, with the supreme leader (Trump or Musk — still not clear) ruling over everything through threats, intimidation, and money, lots of money.
Already Donald Jr. is talking about maybe suspending elections in four years (maybe he thinks he can inherit the throne) and certainly Musk and Trump have started threatening the few Republicans who still have a backbone, with financing those who will do their bidding in the next congressional election.
You have handed over our government to two power-hungry megalomaniacs. You may like the change, but I, for one, am scared to death.
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Student loan farce
Biden is again pushing to forgive billions of dollars in student loans despite the Supreme Court’s ruling that he cannot do it. But why can’t students pay back the loans they asked for, once they graduate and get jobs in the real world? Maybe the cost of living under Biden, coupled with making student loan payments, exceeds the money they make from the jobs they got after graduating. If so, why can’t students find good jobs based on their college education? The problem is that universities no longer educate. They are fermentation tanks for social activism and indoctrination instead of learning and functional capability. We no longer hear about excellence in academics from our universities. Instead, the news is all about student protests, DEI initiatives, and examples of blatant plagiarism, none of which promotes educational excellence and academic capability. Maybe the time has come to clear the distractions and return to an environment of learning and holding both faculties and students accountable.
Loran Hancock
Northwest side
Power and control
We all want power and control over our own lives. The irony of power and control over others is that it almost always results in violence and destruction of the other. We see this on the interpersonal level, when someone trying to control their partner usually results in domestic violence. We see this on the international stage with wars between countries: Israel’s desire to control the Palestinians is destroying Gaza; Putin’s desire to control Ukraine is destroying Ukraine. Here in our country, power over results in discrimination and bias against others we fear and try to control, resulting in their misery and death. The ultimate irony is that power and control over others also destroys those who try to control. We’re likely to see lots of politically controlling actions with the new federal administration over women, immigrants, and other marginalized communities who already lack control over their own lives.
Tim Wernette
Foothills
Not rooting for the uniform
With NIL and open transfer portals there is little continuity in UA basketball and football teams these days. Gone are the times when each new season you recognized most of the returning players. It was great to watch players skills progress from freshman to seniors. Not anymore. I don’t know the guys on the basketball team, they’re all new and will probably be gone next year. Dozens of UA football players are transferring, so next year will be largely new faces. I’m not just going to root for a red and blue uniform, so next year my seasons tickets from 1983 will go into the transfer portal, money back into my wallet.
Dennis Winsten
Northeast side
U of A athletics
From a long-time basketball/softball season ticket holder and major donor, I offer the following perspective:
- UA has lost significant talent to key competitors in athletics over the past few years — AD Greg Byrne to Alabama; Jedd Fisch to WU; Laura Ianello to Texas; Jay Johnson to LSU. It’s not a surprise that these losses were to wealthy Big 10 and SEC schools.
- Mike Candrea retired and our softball team hasn’t performed up to UA standards since
- The despised school up north earned a first-round bye in the college football playoff, winning the Big12 conference in its first year; Bobby’s rag-tag basketball team of transfers at ASU is off to a good start, and our Wildcats will have to prove they can consistently beat ranked teams
I’m not gloom and doom — and I will continue to support Wildcats sports, but the program has a lot to prove in the midst of professional pay to retain its value vs. that despised school up north.
Rob Matteucci
Oro Valley
Trump’s agenda
A recent letter bemoaned the appointment of Kash Patel as FBI Director. Really? Trump’s public disdain for the FBI made such a corrosive appointment inevitable, the only qualification loyalty to the Dear Leader. Other egregious, clown-car appointments include Tulsi Gabbard in Intelligence and the lunacy of RFK Jr., whose discredited vaccine theories will surely adversely impact many innocent young lives.
So, congratulations conservatives. Your disregard of the credible and professional warnings of dangers of a second Trump term accomplished what no foreign adversary could. You still chose chaos and tyranny over competence and morality. Vengeful attacks on media and public officials now underway are only the tip of the looming onslaught. Trump may soon exit the stage due to mental and physical decline but his toxic agenda will probably continue via his supporters. The real victims are our children who will pay the price for this shameful and historic collapse of integrity by the electorate.
Joseph Stanley
Northeast side
Foul ball
Like creatures emerging from the underbrush, Trump and Musk are sending thunder and lightning our way. They are not blowing smoke either. This country is likely to be set afire.
Our new leaders, brave beyond measure, are ready to roll out the first of their critical edicts, cutting Social Security, Medicare, and VA benefits. This proves that lunacy is part of their management style.
But it could cause MAGA to hang up their hats or wish they were helmets. They know there is likely a blowback from Democrats who will throw scorn and words of disdain their way in a rain of no end. MAGA depends on those monthly funds to survive and make their truck payments. In fact, everyone will suffer by taking away those social programs.
Now, MAGA men and women know a rat when they see one. They claim they were deceived. Trump cast a spell with his bravado, and they fell into it. Soon, many of them will take the antidote and be free.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Be honest about immigration
Most of the Star’s readers are undoubtedly reasonably law-abiding people, and many will be offended by foreigners who come to the US without legal status, or arrive in legal status but overstay or violate it.
I share these qualms. However, let’s be honest: Even the most law-abiding of us may break the law if we see no other option. Which of us would remain in poverty in a country where our children were being menaced by gangs and threatened with violence if they didn’t join as either shooters or sex slaves? Would we really refuse on principle to violate the laws of a wealthy country that seemed to offer its residents safety from crime and even, dare we hope, the chance of a better life? Or would we break the law to save our families? Be honest.
SW McFadden
Foothills
War perspective
For all of you who continue to moan and object to the casualties in Gaza, here is some historical perspective as well as some common-sense perspective. All wars produce civilian casualties, some inadvertent and some intentional. In World War II just prior to D-Day, the allies bombed numerous French cities in the area hoping to get at the German army. Many towns were destroyed, and thousands of Frenchmen were killed and wounded. Germany was repeatedly carpet-bombed, destroying cities and thousands of civilians. And then we have Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a deliberate attack on civilians in an attempt to convince the Empire of Japan that continuing the war was futile. These were not acts of genocide, but the gas chambers and ovens were.
Hamas attacked Israel and Israel went to war with Hamas, the political terrorist government of Gaza whose people overwhelmingly support Hamas. It is Hamas who advocates genocide with their stated intention to wipe Israel from the face of the earth. Wake up!
Dennis Abrams
Northwest side
Literacy and libraries
RE: Why ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ should focus on literacy right now
While non-profit organizations have an important role to play in elevating literacy in our community, young people’s ready access to books is a strong predictor of reading achievement and success in life. Sadly, the Pima County Public Library system is struggling to staff and keep all of its current branches open; there are only 16 certified school librarians in 89 ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Unified schools.
As Walter Cronkite once observed: “Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation.â€
Let’s commit to funding our public libraries so librarians can engage patrons of all ages in dynamic literacy experiences all year long. Let’s commit to lobbying the Legislature to appropriately fund our K-12 district public schools. More funding will allow districts to staff all schools with certified librarians who have sufficient library budgets so they can lead vibrant school library programs 180 days of the school year.
Judi Moreillon
Northeast side
Help from Ciscomani?
So, Daily Star, your man Tim Steller thinks we need Congressman Ciscomani to help us “rein in Trump’s worst impulsesâ€. I’ll be watching the weather reports from hell. I wonder if they use 32° F or 0° C.
John Kromko
Downtown
- William Jones, East side
Amazing “history†lesson from a libertarian. What was left out was President Carter tried to move America toward a sustainable future and President Reagan ensured that Earth would get hotter year after year. What is left out of the economic debate is the cost for rebuilding after extreme storms ($48 billion for NC alone after Hurricane Helene and over $200 billion/year everywhere). What is left out is that people die in these storms by hotter oceans and wildfires created by drought. The Department of Defense for years (read 2019 report) that climate change is a national security threat.
The Rocky Mountain Institute has reported for over 15 years that America could get to net zero pollution emissions and grow the economy by $5 trillion over a decade. I never see that mentioned by conservatives. Migration is occurring because of climate change. People are dying in the extreme heat in Phoenix and ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Imagine. Pay me now or pay me later.
William Jones
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Michael Chihak, West side
Re: the Dec. 16 letter “Unbelievable.â€
The writer, who regularly spews fiction, is at it again. This time, he left out a critical fact that makes his point moot.
He wrote that the Biden administration is auctioning the steel sheets that were stored after the president ordered a halt to border wall construction in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
What he failed to mention was that the sale is required under federal acquisition regulations, as reported by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥week on Dec. 13. Perhaps he did not know that, or perhaps he omitted it so he could call Biden’s actions “potentially treasonous.â€
He evidently didn’t read the Constitution’s Article III, Section 3, which defines treason. The definition does not include following federal regulations.
He ended by saying that Texas will purchase the steel panels and return them to the federal government, “so fortunately, there is common sense in some areas of our nation.â€
Just not in his mind.
Michael Chihak
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jose Salgado, Northeast side
Hey, it may not be such a bad idea to have Elon Musk running the President’s roll. Elon Musk is rich. I have not heard of him getting his money from his father. I think he made all his money himself. That makes him a good businessman. On the other hand, we have Donald Trump who has filed for bankruptcy not once but six times. Doesn’t sound like the kind of guy I would trust.
Elon Musk might be good for the country instead of you know who.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Elinor Brecher, Foothills
For as long as Republicans have been freaking out about the "rigged, stolen, corrupted" elections they lost, I did a lot of scoffing and eye rolling. American elections, especially for national office, are likely the world's most secure. This wasn't an issue until a certain 2016 presidential candidate poisoned the well by announcing that he could only lose if Democrats cheated. He got elected, then hedging his bets against future defeats, maintained the insidious fiction, destroying, perhaps forever, millions of Americans' faith in the electoral process. Well, MAGA, you've finally convinced me. Elections aren't just corrupted; they're unnecessary! President-elect Elon Musk wasn't even on the ballot. But when Trump's sugar daddy instructs his minion to tank a bipartisan government-funding bill, poof! It's gone! A shut-down won't hurt an "unelected bureaucrat" worth $500 billion, but wait 'til you see what it does to you.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Frederick Leinfest, Oro Valley
Like many Americans, I have been inconsolable since November 5.I have participated in every election since Eisenhower and always accepted the results. In those days, however, a candidate was usually qualified to govern our country, regardless of political affiliation. Someone who does not read, can't spell or find a location on a map, would not even qualify to enter a primary. Now, slavish subservience and revenge are indispensable prerequisites for any major government assignment. As recently as two decades ago, it would have been unthinkable to nominate Trump's eccentrics and extremists for cabinet positions; or insult France by "honoring" our oldest ally with a pardoned felon as ambassador. The major two components of Trump's success were the Evangelical Christians, who are euphoric about his second coming even though their hero has reportedly attended church services less than a dozen times; and the uneducated, who comprise more than half of our population and are impressed by his "masculinity." We can only hope that the Ignoramus will not touch our constitution.
Frederick Leinfest
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David Devine, Midtown
Kent's Blumenthal's December 14th opinion piece, "Three compromised, dangerous peas in a pod," reminded me of the 1959 hit "Charlie Brown" sung by the Coasters. Even though Charlie is personally responsible for his own trials and tribulations, all he can ask is: "Why's everybody always picking on me?" Maybe it's time Israeli supporters of the continuing useless slaughter and starvation of innocents, the elderly, and medical staff in Gaza look in the mirror for the cause.
David Devine
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Greg Lewis, Midtown
Re: Ryan Yonk’s Dec. 16 opinion, “Get real: Coal, oil and gas are here to stay.†Yes, and horses, also, are here to stay but we haven’t looked to them as our primary source of power and transportation for quite some time.
This writer never mentions the reason for transitioning to renewable energy. He just says “it’s a significant goal of environmental groups and their allies.†No opinions from the overwhelming majority of the worlds top climate scientists? No? Just a bunch of lefties trying to shove electric cars down our throats? Biden’s war on fossil fuels? Henry Ford’s war on horses?
The stone age didn’t end because they ran out of stones and, one way or another, the Age of Fossil Fuel will end long before we run out of coal, oil and gas.
Greg Lewis
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
I'm not sure how Jeffery McConnell came up with Elon Musk being a good guy when he's the furthest thing from a "good guy." Jeff explains how George Soros is really the Billionaire political donor that can be blamed for, what exactly he didn't explain.
He complains that Soros bought up numerous small radio stations because "Biden" allowed it.
He goes on to say that when Musk bought out Twitter, Musk immediately released the Twitter Files detailing prior free-speech abuses, promoting all voices."
Musk didn't promote "all voices." He allowed disinformation to be fed to voters to help sway the election for the convicted felon. What's bigger in this age? Radio or X?
When did Soros tell lawmakers he'd "primary" every member of Congress if they didn't back Biden? Jeff, you're mistaken, as so many others that were fooled by the con man and his billionaire friend.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
U of A women’s basketball stars
I want to commend the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ women’s basketball team for not only what they do on the court but for what they do off the court. They brought numerous stuffed bears and toys to Casa de los Ninos to benefit the many families we serve. It was a day that celebrated the holiday spirit in the right way: helping others. It made hearts swell to see the joy of the team and the Casa de Los Ninos workers while unloading the many toys that would make a happy day for the over 3,000 children Casa De los Ninos serves. Thank you for being the “stars†for all of us.
Dee-Dee Samet
President, Casa de los Niños Foundation Board
Midtown
Before casting stones, look in the mirror
Kent Blumenthal’s December 14th opinion piece, “Three compromised, dangerous peas in a pod,†reminded me of the 1959 hit “Charlie Brown†sung by the Coasters. Even though Charlie is personally responsible for his own trials and tribulations, all he can ask is: “Why’s everybody always picking on me?†Maybe it’s time Israeli supporters of the continuing useless slaughter and starvation of innocents, the elderly, and medical staff in Gaza look in the mirror for the cause.
David Devine
Midtown
Writer’s words are what’s ‘unbelievable’
Re: the Dec. 16 letter “Unbelievable.â€
The writer, who regularly spews fiction, is at it again. This time, he left out a critical fact that makes his point moot.
He wrote that the Biden administration is auctioning the steel sheets that were stored after the president ordered a halt to border wall construction in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
What he failed to mention was that the sale is required under federal acquisition regulations, as reported by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥week on Dec. 13. Perhaps he did not know that, or perhaps he omitted it so he could call Biden’s actions “potentially treasonous.â€
He evidently didn’t read the Constitution’s Article III, Section 3, which defines treason. The definition does not include following federal regulations.
He ended by saying that Texas will purchase the steel panels and return them to the federal government, “so fortunately, there is common sense in some areas of our nation.â€
Just not in his mind.
Michael Chihak
West side
Voice of America
VOA was created at the beginning of WWII. Today, it is the largest international broadcaster providing information to roughly 350 million people worldwide and spoken in over 50 languages. VOA is a U.S. government radio network that began in 1942 to counter Nazi propaganda. Its mission was to spread accurate and informative news. In 2022, VOA celebrated its 80th year of broadcasting.
Past VOC directors have been Amanda Bennett (author; Pulitzer Prize Awardee), John Chancellor (NBC Nightly ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥), Dr. Mary Bitterman (served during the American-Iran hostage takeover; served during Liberia’s bloody Coup d’etat).
VOA’s mission has been to provide truthful, objective, and accountable news with cultural programming. It continues this arduous mission to this day.
2025 will be looking at Kari Lake as its next possible director. Ms. Lake would be responsible for truthful, objective and accountable news and programming. Really?
Tom Staab
East side
Kari Lake to Voice of America is a clue
The Charter of the “Voice of America†(VOA) was signed in 1976 by Republican president Gerald R. Ford. A firewall was announced in 1994 to protect the VOA’s mission of providing independent journalistic standards for its broadcasts. Under Trump’s leadership in 2017’s National Defense Authorization Act, the charter, mission and firewall were all reaffirmed.
The International Broadcasting Advisory Board (IBAB) was instituted in 2023 because of the political interference and retributions of Michael Pack, Trump’s 2020 appointment for the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) who received Senate confirmation. According to investigations, Pack fired many professional journalists in the VOA and replaced them with Trump sympathizers with no international journalistic experience. Congress found Pack had abused his position.
The power of the USAGM is its head, who needs Senate confirmation. But the IBAB appoints the head of the VOA. It’s not a done deal for Lake.
Politically, if Trump wants Lake to be the head of the VOA, then his future pick for head of the USAGM will be worse.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Imagine, getting real about coal and gas
Amazing “history†lesson from a libertarian. What was left out was President Carter tried to move America toward a sustainable future and President Reagan ensured that Earth would get hotter year after year. What is left out of the economic debate is the cost for rebuilding after extreme storms ($48 billion for NC alone after Hurricane Helene and over $200 billion/year everywhere). What is left out is that people die in these storms by hotter oceans and wildfires created by drought. The Department of Defense for years (read 2019 report) that climate change is a national security threat.
The Rocky Mountain Institute has reported for over 15 years that America could get to net zero pollution emissions and grow the economy by $5 trillion over a decade. I never see that mentioned by conservatives. Migration is occurring because of climate change. People are dying in the extreme heat in Phoenix and ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Imagine. Pay me now or pay me later.
William Jones
East side
Trump ante portas
Like many Americans, I have been inconsolable since November 5. I have participated in every election since Eisenhower and always accepted the results. In those days, however, a candidate was usually qualified to govern our country, regardless of political affiliation. Someone who does not read, can’t spell or find a location on a map, would not even qualify to enter a primary. Now, slavish subservience and revenge are indispensable prerequisites for any major government assignment. As recently as two decades ago, it would have been unthinkable to nominate Trump’s eccentrics and extremists for cabinet positions; or insult France by “honoring†our oldest ally with a pardoned felon as ambassador. The major two components of Trump’s success were the Evangelical Christians, who are euphoric about his second coming even though their hero has reportedly attended church services less than a dozen times; and the uneducated, who comprise more than half of our population and are impressed by his “masculinity.†We can only hope that the Ignoramus will not touch our Constitution.
Frederick Leinfest
Oro Valley
School shooting
More guns, more shootings.
Guns in the hands of troubled people is a recipe for disaster.
And who are these troubled people?
Us!
Jim Dreis
East side
President Musk?
For as long as Republicans have been freaking out about the “rigged, stolen, corrupted†elections they lost, I did a lot of scoffing and eye rolling. American elections, especially for national office, are likely the world’s most secure. This wasn’t an issue until a certain 2016 presidential candidate poisoned the well by announcing that he could only lose if Democrats cheated. He got elected, then hedging his bets against future defeats, maintained the insidious fiction, destroying, perhaps forever, millions of Americans’ faith in the electoral process. Well, MAGA, you’ve finally convinced me. Elections aren’t just corrupted; they’re unnecessary! President-elect Elon Musk wasn’t even on the ballot. But when Trump’s sugar daddy instructs his minion to tank a bipartisan government-funding bill, poof! It’s gone! A shut-down won’t hurt an “unelected bureaucrat†worth $500 billion but wait ‘til you see what it does to you.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Musk is everything but a good guy
I’m not sure how Jeffery McConnell came up with Elon Musk being a good guy when he’s the furthest thing from a “good guy.†Jeff explains how George Soros is really the Billionaire political donor that can be blamed for, what exactly he didn’t explain.
He complains that Soros bought up numerous small radio stations because “Biden†allowed it.
He goes on to say that when Musk bought out Twitter, Musk immediately released the Twitter Files detailing prior free-speech abuses, promoting “all voices.â€
Musk didn’t promote “all voices.†He allowed disinformation to be fed to voters to help sway the election for the convicted felon. What’s bigger in this age? Radio or X?
When did Soros tell lawmakers he’d “primary†every member of Congress if they didn’t back Biden? Jeff, you’re mistaken, as so many others that were fooled by the con man and his billionaire friend.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Elon Musk helps Trump run the country
Hey, it may not be such a bad idea to have Elon Musk running the President’s roll. Elon Musk is rich. I have not heard of him getting his money from his father. I think he made all his money himself. That makes him a good businessman. On the other hand, we have Donald Trump who has filed for bankruptcy not once but six times. Doesn’t sound like the kind of guy I would trust.
Elon Musk might be good for the country instead of you know who.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Get real (Get a horse!)
Re: Ryan Yonk’s Dec. 16 opinion, “Get real: Coal, oil and gas are here to stay.†Yes, and horses, also, are here to stay but we haven’t looked to them as our primary source of power and transportation for quite some time.
This writer never mentions the reason for transitioning to renewable energy. He just says “it’s a significant goal of environmental groups and their allies.†No opinions from the overwhelming majority of the worlds top climate scientists? No? Just a bunch of lefties trying to shove electric cars down our throats? Biden’s war on fossil fuels? Henry Ford’s war on horses?
The stone age didn’t end because they ran out of stones and, one way or another, the Age of Fossil Fuel will end long before we run out of coal, oil and gas.
Greg Lewis
Midtown
- Barbara Benjamin, Foothills
Our Founding Fathers found freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press fundamental to our inalienable rights. That's why those freedoms are listed first in the Bill of Rights. Is it any wonder, therefore, that Trump is going after the media? Threatening the media with lawsuits, even those he doesn't expect to win, is an attempt to rein in the public's right to know. He has already indicated that he will eliminate the right to free speech through assembly with military intervention. The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times have already ceded their freedom to Trump by limiting what their papers publish. Trump's lawsuit against the De Moines Register is bogus because he didn't like them printing a poll that indicated he was 3 points behind Vice President Harris. By limiting the public's right to know, what better way can an authoritarian secure power? An ignorant and uninformed public guarantees the goal! Are we ready to forgo our inalienable rights?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cheryl Lockhart, Foothills
After months of warnings that DT would destroy democracy, Joe Biden has gone silent, and done nothing to prevent or protect us from authoritarian takeovers. Wake up, Joe. The Supreme Court has given you rare power, so use it, and do some good before you fade into the twilight. Here are some suggestions: 1. Make all DACA recipients legal. 2. Close Guantanamo. (The 16 men, none of whom have been charged with a crime, are costing taxpayers half a billion a year.) Send them to other countries. 3. Stop all bomb shipments to Israel and join the world in condemning their war crimes. 4. Pre-emptive pardons for the January 6 committee. Sure, some might be undone, but I for one would respect you for fighting for truth and justice, and not just sulking silently smiling into Christmas lights.
Cheryl Lockhart
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
It should be remembered that Trump diverted $ 14.8 billion from the Defense Dept. for much needed equipment and improvements to military bases and used it for the Trump wall.
Spending on the Defense Dept. would be a much better return on investment.
Reprogramming that money, in detail, from Defense Dept. to wall can be found​ in an NPR article online.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. Did Trump voters expect something different this time around?
Trump is still what he has always been, namely mean, small, ignorant, petty, and self-serving. Look at the unqualified sycophants he is putting in his administration. His plans for revenge against his perceived enemies and the media are truly frightening. Take a look at his plans for Social Security and Medicare. I don't know what our uninformed electorate was expecting, but they are in for some rude awakenings, and all of us are in for some really scary times.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
No new city taxes
Until the City can demonstrate they are effectively delivering quality services, on time, within budget, taxpayers shouldn’t be asked to pony up more of their hard-earned dollars for a higher tax, which hurts low-income workers.
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Albuquerque, El Paso, and Pinal County have internal audit teams that review their city processes to determine if they are following established procedures and budgets, adhering to their quality standards, and delivering their services on time. And these cities publish their audit reports on their websites for everyone to see.
Then there is ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, with just two full-time auditor positions, both currently vacant, and conveniently not publishing their reports for the public to see. The City Charter is very poorly written in regard to internal audits, making it clear that the M&C don’t understand the benefits, or maybe even care.
The City proves to us every day how they cannot deliver even the simplest of services effectively, so why reward them with more money to waste?
Lois Pawlak
Midtown
Neutral-site games
We all know that transparency went out the window with NIL but I struggle to see how neutral-site games are moneymakers. The recent U of A-UCLA game in Phoenix attracted 5,000 fewer than if played at McKale. If the powers that be acknowledged the amount of compensation, then perhaps fans could accept the financial benefits (at least emotionally) of playing these games away from home. Otherwise, it leads to conjecture and speculation about how much is passed under the table.
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
You expected something different?
The best indicator of future behavior is past behavior. Did Trump voters expect something different this time around?
Trump is still what he has always been, namely mean, small, ignorant, petty, and self-serving. Look at the unqualified sycophants he is putting in his administration. His plans for revenge against his perceived enemies and the media are truly frightening. Take a look at his plans for Social Security and Medicare. I don’t know what our uninformed electorate was expecting, but they are in for some rude awakenings, and all of us are in for some really scary times.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Poverty Project
Out of the mouths of those who have walked the walk, Leilani Gomez’ very specific asks should be seriously considered. For sure the City doesn’t have the money to fund every well-intentioned and reasonable endeavor that comes its way but what the writer proposes is a step above the fray. Complaining about homeless people fouling neighborhoods, high unemployment among young Latinos, drugs — all have a pretty similar root cause. And it starts with poverty. The problem with being poor is that you have no money. And no voice. And no real life options. That plays out tenfold in South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
On the street community police presence, patrol cars, an actual place in the hood where people could go and speak to the City, these are not pie-in-the-sky suggestions. These are actions sourced from research, actions that could sprinkle some hope in South ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Action begets action!
Listen to the young people who care enough to voice their concerns. Then do something to help.
Rick Rappaport
Oro Valley
Selling of the border wall
I’m not sure why people are so upset about the selling of the border wall.
Besides the fact that the parts of the wall for sale may be damaged beyond repair, didn’t Mexico pay for the wall?
Matt Somers
Midtown
Trump wall waste
It should be remembered that Trump diverted $ 14.8 billion from the Defense Dept. for much needed equipment and improvements to military bases and used it for the Trump wall.
Spending on the Defense Dept. would be a much better return on investment.
Reprogramming that money, in detail, from Defense Dept. to wall can be found in an NPR article online.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Biden retirement
After months of warnings that DT would destroy democracy, Joe Biden has gone silent, and done nothing to prevent or protect us from authoritarian takeovers. Wake up, Joe. The Supreme Court has given you rare power, so use it, and do some good before you fade into the twilight. Here are some suggestions: 1. Make all DACA recipients legal. 2. Close Guantanamo. (The 16 men, none of whom have been charged with a crime, are costing taxpayers half a billion a year.) Send them to other countries. 3. Stop all bomb shipments to Israel and join the world in condemning their war crimes. 4. Pre-emptive pardons for the January 6 committee. Sure, some might be undone, but I for one would respect you for fighting for truth and justice, and not just sulking silently smiling into Christmas lights.
Cheryl Lockhart
Foothills
Don’t let the door hit ya!
I was shocked by the news report that Senator Kyrsten Sinema was giving a farewell speech today. I thought she had been out of office for the last two years since we as her constituents never really hear anything from her. We probably won’t know what cushy job she moves to in the Washington Beltway. That is okay too!
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
Vote no on RTA Next
Thank you Miranda Schubert for your thoughtful column on RTA Next. I will be voting no, because of the 18 years of mismanagement of the current RTA plan by the RTA Board and Executive Director.
With just 18 months to go RTA has a funding gap of $200M with no plan for filling that gap. There will be an additional gap of $240M if RTA Next fails, 22% of the original budget. These shortages exist after the Board committed all available transportation dollars to RTA roadway projects from 2014 to 2029.
The board likes to blame the 2008 recession, but there’s a long list of management failures that created this shortage, such as not adjusting costs for inflation, delaying road projects, lack of action by the citizens oversight committee, waiting too long to adjust for revenue shortfalls, and not seeking public input to better direct limited resources.
There is no RTA Next plan that I will vote for as long as the management structure and personnel remain the same.
Ruth Reiman
Midtown
Forgoing our inalienable rights
Our Founding Fathers found freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press fundamental to our inalienable rights. That’s why those freedoms are listed first in the Bill of Rights. Is it any wonder, therefore, that Trump is going after the media? Threatening the media with lawsuits, even those he doesn’t expect to win, is an attempt to rein in the public’s right to know. He has already indicated that he will eliminate the right to free speech through assembly with military intervention. The Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times have already ceded their freedom to Trump by limiting what their papers publish. Trump’s lawsuit against the De Moines Register is bogus because he didn’t like them printing a poll that indicated he was 3 points behind Vice President Harris. By limiting the public’s right to know, what better way can an authoritarian secure power? An ignorant and uninformed public guarantees the goal! Are we ready to forgo our inalienable rights?
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
‘Immigrants drives US population growth’ …
… and they is necessary for U.S. prosperity growth. Can’t the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Star afford a good poofreader anymore? And does AI has any grammar? I’s worried that you might be getting other stuff wrong too, while ignorant armies clash by night and the plain is darkling all around us (see Matthew Arnold’s Dover Beach, and try to get a good night’s sleep).
Sherry Machen
Green Valley
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
Thank you Joe Biden for renewing my faith in the 2 government system. One system is of the people, by the people and for the people. People under this system are held accountable for the rules and regulations emanating from the Constitution. The system of the elites, by the elites and for the elites leave the members of this government above the law with no accountability.
You may ask who the members are of this elite second government. They are most politicians.
Remember how they excluded themselves from the affordable care act? The lawyers and Judiciary have no accountability whatsoever. They are self-regulated. Absolute power corrupts-absolutely.
The other members of this elite government are CEOs. No CEO was held responsible for the failures of Enron and Solyndra. No CEO was ever held accountable for the S&L debacle or the cancer caused by cigarettes.
We the people under the Constitution are getting tired if the 2 government system. Put everyone accountable to the laws emanating from the Constitution.
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cynthia Schiesel, East side
Musk has already gone public about blackmailing Republican legislators who don't follow the mandates of DJT. Now DJT has ordered Republicans in Congress to remove their support from the bipartisan spending bill, uncaring about those it would hurt. Time to remember Pastor Martin Niemoller's poem basically paraphrased: they came for the Communists and I said nothing because I wasn't a Communist; they came for the Socialists and I said nothing because I wasn't a Socialist; then for the unionists; then for the Jews. When they came for me, there was no one to stand up. Republicans in office better get their backbones fortified. It won't be long before your bowing and scraping before DJT will not be enough and they will come for you. You were elected to serve and protect the people of the United States -- all of the people. Do your job.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
A recent letter by Loyal Johnson (parroting Trump) that bemoaned the financial loss of the Biden administration’s selling leftover border steel and replacing it to build more wall was soundly rebuffed by John Bingham’s letter. Trump’s 455 miles of 30-foot-tall border wall of steel bollards filled with concrete and rebar welded together at the top cost an estimated $18.4 billion to construct. Mexican coyotes easily cut bollards using hand-held, cordless grinders to create swinging doors for migrants anywhere along the border. A De Walt cordless grinder was on sale at Home Depot for $99 -- 6.6% of the minimum $1,500 each migrant pays to cross. From October 2018 to September 2021, the wall was breached 3,200 times. A full-time Border Patrol crew welds the cuts. Building the ineffective border wall is the real past and future outrageous cost to American taxpayers.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Thad Appelman, Northwest side
Re: December 19 Article: “Hundreds in Gaza disappear after forced separationâ€
Ok, this is genocide (Def: the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group) with some new twists, all cruel and inhumane, and too well-planned to be random. This is a religious war, where Judaism is trying to annihilate Islam. And our solid backing of this is criminal. Those are American warplanes and artillery delivering American weapons to unarmed hungry homeless Palestinianisms. And don’t start with the ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race ... or any race; I do have a hatred of what Hitler did to the Jews, what Putin is doing to the brave Ukrainians, and an equal hatred for what the Israelis are doing in Islamic Gaza. With my tax money and weapons made in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Thad Appelman
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David E. Leon, Vail
Since when does an unelected and dangerous want-to-be Senator or congressman dictate to Congress and cancel the deal to fund the government? I know he gave 45/47 $200 million for Trump's campaign. Now he will run the House and Senate? I remember the scene from, "she wore a yellow ribbon " when Nathan Brittles, played by John Wayne is talking to Pony Who Walks, the Native American chief. Pony Who Walks says to Nathan, "Too late, Nathan, too late." It is too late you voted for this now we have to live with this mistake for 4 years. If there is a God? God help us.
David E. Leon
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- David Reynolds, East side
To paraphrase the banker’s argument against the new overdraft rules, we shouldn’t have rules making overdraft fees cost less and be more transparent because in reaction to the lower prices and higher transparency, people will work harder to find another source that they don’t already have an account with.
The only thing worse than that tortured piece of “reasoning†is that there are people that will say it makes sense.
David Reynolds
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Cherie Freeman, East side
Well, folks, you voted for Trump to be President but here is what you got: Musk speaks Trump obeys. So who is really President?
Cherie Freeman
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
Trump’s first State of the Union address outlined his "comprehensive and bipartisan" Four Pillars for Immigration Reform. Since Trump is back let’s take a second look.
1. Path to citizenship for DREAMers. The oldest dreamer children are now in their 40s having children of their own. We won't deport them; they’re still just a bargaining chip.
2. Border security. Discussion degenerated into ‘wall’ hysteria where lame-duck Biden is now holding a fire sale of stockpiled wall steel so Trump can’t use it. The issue remains national sovereignty; no one enters without permission.
3. End the diversity visa lottery. The intention was transitioning to a merit-based system welcoming highly skilled immigrants. Biden now has an epiphany announcing relaxation of H-1B work visa restrictions to attract international talent.
4. Restrictions on family-based immigration. No line has yet been drawn on chain migration; everyone is related to someone else, but birthright citizenship will now have its day in court.
Let’s make this happen.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Our next leaders, President Donald Trump and Under-President Elon Musk, will weaponize their command. Hardy men of MAGA hear the call and are checking their guns for possible action.
So, it is no secret that MAGA is arming itself in the event trouble breaks out. Finally, old guys might get to see some action and may pull out their antique bazookas and flamethrowers. They are always good.
One of main aims of Musk is to keep women stifled and in their place. He wants to see that pregnant women remain pregnant. Round the clock protection squads will have the duty of keeping the precious little one, not yet born, safe. Also, to keep watch over the mother-to-be so she doesn’t get any ideas.
Our government, under its two leaders, will chart new waters and show the world that we are made of steel wool now. Marshmallows are out. So is the light. We are a bunch of Busters now.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Leadership: A matter of life and death
Congratulations to retiring Dr. Garcia, whose leadership of Pima County’s health services literally saved lives during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Garcia leaves behind one of the better public health departments in the country working for us. We are fortunate, especially with another potential pandemic appearing on the horizon. I encourage the Board of Supervisors to continue to seek excellence in the delivery of public health services to our communities.
Julia Fonseca
Northwest side
Panhandlers
State Sen. John Kavanagh has introduced legislation to curb panhandlers. If passed, I am relieved to know I will not be subjected to a traffic eyesore — poor people!
Joan Meggitt
Midtown
Poverty cycle starts with children
Re: ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ poverty project exposes need (12/18/2024)
I write to thank Leilani Gomez for her thoughts and work on poverty research, and her citation of the two insightful books by Matthew Desmond — “Evicted†and “Poverty in America.†“Random Family†by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc also offers a devastating perspective on poverty’s effects on children, drug use, crime and the hindrances to the desire to do better.
In order to break the cycle of poverty, I believe we must expand and concentrate resources into programs for children living in poverty. Children in poverty grow into adults in poverty. They are raised by parents, often single, under significant stress, who themselves being ill-equipped, cannot equip their children to compete as contributing adults.
We must do more — increase funding to education, revive the child tax credit, provide free preschool, and so much more. We will all benefit.
Linda Dobbyn
Midtown
What the what now?
To paraphrase the banker’s argument against the new overdraft rules, we shouldn’t have rules making overdraft fees cost less and be more transparent because in reaction to the lower prices and higher transparency, people will work harder to find another source that they don’t already have an account with.
The only thing worse than that tortured piece of “reasoning†is that there are people that will say it makes sense.
David Reynolds
East side
No help from ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ PD
If a red-light camera had been installed at the corner of Golf Links and Kolb last month, it would have caught four cars turning onto Kolb when the left-turn light had been red long enough for the green light for forward traffic on Kolb to have been on for 15 seconds. The last of the four law-breaking cars was a ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ PD vehicle. The officer wasn’t out to stop any of the previous three lawbreakers — he was simply last in the line.
I wish the Star would research how many more accidents there have been at intersections since Prop 201 was passed by an ignorant ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ majority.
People only obey laws when they know someone is watching. If that “someone†is a red-eye camera, with actual picture evidence, enforcement is much more efficient and effective.
E. Kathy Suagee
Benson
No marshmallows
Our next leaders, President Donald Trump and Under-President Elon Musk, will weaponize their command. Hardy men of MAGA hear the call and are checking their guns for possible action.
So, it is no secret that MAGA is arming itself in the event trouble breaks out. Finally, old guys might get to see some action and may pull out their antique bazookas and flamethrowers. They are always good.
One of main aims of Musk is to keep women stifled and in their place. He wants to see that pregnant women remain pregnant. Round the clock protection squads will have the duty of keeping the precious little one, not yet born, safe. Also, to keep watch over the mother-to-be so she doesn’t get any ideas.
Our government, under its two leaders, will chart new waters and show the world that we are made of steel wool now. Marshmallows are out. So is the light. We are a bunch of Busters now.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Healthcare
The column from Kendra Gaines was spot on. I do have UHC which does not cover home nursing care but currently, I am contesting an $8,000 bill from Bayada for home nursing services. One of their nurses unplugged my husband’s hospital bed to plug in her computer and then told me the bed was not working! Outrageous and unacceptable.
Valerie Golembiewski
Southeast side
Romero and corridor redevelopment
The City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥â€™s proposed bogus Corridor Redevelopment plan smells of a reward to Regina Romero’s developer supporters (check her campaign donor list). This attempt to eliminate community input from neighborhoods, reflects her heavy-handed control of the City Council and again to throw a major bone to the development community who have thrown major dollars into her campaign treasure chest. Thanks to community activists like Colette Altaffer, Lois Pawlak, Bonnie Poulos and others for dissecting this foolish attempt and informing our community to take action.
Jerry Anderson
Midtown
Right to know about abortions
So, the public has the “right to know†about such a personal thing as abortion? Well then, I want to know about the men in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ who want to have vasectomies and why. Did they not want children? Have they had any already? How many? By how many different women? What form of contraception did they use when having sex? Financial considerations — they can’t support the kids they already have? Are they married? Divorced? Are they paying child support? To how many women? Have they already had a vasectomy? Was it successful? Medical conditions? Other (please fill in box)? What county do they live in? After all, since there have to be men involved for women to get pregnant (something that seems to be forgotten in the abortion “debateâ€), I have just as much right to know about them as they do about me.
Camille Guice
East side
Cost of Border Wall steel
A recent letter by Loyal Johnson (parroting Trump) that bemoaned the financial loss of the Biden administration’s selling leftover border steel and replacing it to build more wall was soundly rebuffed by John Bingham’s letter. Trump’s 455 miles of 30-foot-tall border wall of steel bollards filled with concrete and rebar welded together at the top cost an estimated $18.4 billion to construct. Mexican coyotes easily cut bollards using hand-held, cordless grinders to create swinging doors for migrants anywhere along the border. A DeWalt cordless grinder was on sale at Home Depot for $99 — 6.6% of the minimum $1,500 each migrant pays to cross. From October 2018 to September 2021, the wall was breached 3,200 times. A full-time Border Patrol crew welds the cuts. Building the ineffective border wall is the real past and future outrageous cost to American taxpayers.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Streaming
California streaming on ESPN+. That’s what we have for at least 6 of the remaining U of A basketball games. How do folks like it so far? 1: It’s a paid subscription. $100 or so. 2: It takes several minutes to load up. 3: You can’t fast forward or rewind. 4: Announcers are second-tier. 5: The worst: One is forced to endure commercials and unable to pause then fast-forward through as we do on regular cable. What a bargain!
Thomas Rothe
Foothills
Who voted for Musk?
Since when does an unelected and dangerous want-to-be Senator or congressman dictate to Congress and cancel the deal to fund the government? I know he gave 45/47 $200 million for Trump’s campaign. Now he will run the House and Senate? I remember the scene from, “she wore a yellow ribbon†when Nathan Brittles, played by John Wayne is talking to Pony Who Walks, the Native American chief. Pony Who Walks says to Nathan, “Too late, Nathan, too late.†It is too late you voted for this now we have to live with this mistake for 4 years. If there is a God? God help us.
David E. Leon
Vail
He will come for you
Musk has already gone public about blackmailing Republican legislators who don’t follow the mandates of DJT. Now DJT has ordered Republicans in Congress to remove their support from the bipartisan spending bill, uncaring about those it would hurt. Time to remember Pastor Martin Niemoller’s poem basically paraphrased: they came for the Communists and I said nothing because I wasn’t a Communist; they came for the Socialists and I said nothing because I wasn’t a Socialist; then for the unionists; then for the Jews. When they came for me, there was no one to stand up. Republicans in office better get their backbones fortified. It won’t be long before your bowing and scraping before DJT will not be enough and they will come for you. You were elected to serve and protect the people of the United States — all of the people. Do your job.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Obedience
Well, folks, you voted for Trump to be President but here is what you got: Musk speaks Trump obeys. So who is really President?
Cherie Freeman
East side
Reforming immigration reform
Trump’s first State of the Union address outlined his “comprehensive and bipartisan†Four Pillars for Immigration Reform. Since Trump is back let’s take a second look.
1. Path to citizenship for DREAMers. The oldest dreamer children are now in their 40s having children of their own. We won’t deport them; they’re still just a bargaining chip.
2. Border security. Discussion degenerated into ‘wall’ hysteria where lame-duck Biden is now holding a fire sale of stockpiled wall steel so Trump can’t use it. The issue remains national sovereignty; no one enters without permission.
3. End the diversity visa lottery. The intention was transitioning to a merit-based system welcoming highly skilled immigrants. Biden now has an epiphany announcing relaxation of H-1B work visa restrictions to attract international talent.
4. Restrictions on family-based immigration. No line has yet been drawn on chain migration; everyone is related to someone else, but birthright citizenship will now have its day in court.
Let’s make this happen.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
By any other name
Re: December 19 Article: “Hundreds in Gaza disappear after forced separationâ€
Ok, this is genocide (Def: the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group) with some new twists, all cruel and inhumane, and too well-planned to be random. This is a religious war, where Judaism is trying to annihilate Islam. And our solid backing of this is criminal. Those are American warplanes and artillery delivering American weapons to unarmed hungry homeless Palestinianisms. And don’t start with the ‘antisemitism’ crap! I have no hatred for the Jewish race … or any race; I do have a hatred of what Hitler did to the Jews, what Putin is doing to the brave Ukrainians, and an equal hatred for what the Israelis are doing in Islamic Gaza. With my tax money and weapons made in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Thad Appelman
Northwest side
Minimum wage increase
Another non-market driven increase in the minimum wage orchestrated by the City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. It will only drive up consumer prices, especially at restaurants and bars. So, that means I’ll be eating out less, especially within the city limits. And, to keep my total meal cost down, I’ll be tipping less, if at all.
William Russell
Foothills
Two government system
Thank you Joe Biden for renewing my faith in the 2 government system. One system is of the people, by the people and for the people. People under this system are held accountable for the rules and regulations emanating from the Constitution. The system of the elites, by the elites and for the elites leave the members of this government above the law with no accountability.
You may ask who the members are of this elite second government. They are most politicians.
Remember how they excluded themselves from the affordable care act? The lawyers and Judiciary have no accountability whatsoever. They are self-regulated. Absolute power corrupts-absolutely.
The other members of this elite government are CEOs. No CEO was held responsible for the failures of Enron and Solyndra. No CEO was ever held accountable for the S&L debacle or the cancer caused by cigarettes.
We the people under the Constitution are getting tired if the 2 government system. Put everyone accountable to the laws emanating from the Constitution.
Thomas Wenzel
East side
The season of giving
‘Tis the season of giving. Aside from gifts to children and grandchildren, I find the most meaningful gift is a contribution to a local charity that serves our most vulnerable. Having observed their services firsthand as a board member, I personally feel this is Casa de los Niños. There is nothing more heartwarming than a gift that impacts a child’s life. I encourage you to give to a cause that warms your heart.
Jonathan Insel
Foothills
Sinema greatest disappointment
In 2018 I worked for Kirkpatrick’s campaign, which merged into Sinema’s. Sinema turned out to be a fraud. She missed many votes and used her tenure to travel (triathlons around the world are not part of her job description) and lead an extravagant lifestyle. She helped keep the filibuster which prevents real progress. Lord knows ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ has had more than its share of racists like Mecham, election deniers, and all-around crazies elected. But she stands out because they were true believers, no matter how misguided. She knew better and didn’t care.
Craig Miller
Northwest side
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
Since Trump won the election, I have noticed an escalation of hate for the “otherâ€. The “otherâ€, being anyone who is not aligned with Trump. This intolerance for the other/left has only been emboldened by Trump’s victory. A gloating, sadistic and vicious attitude is clearly seen in our social media platforms by Trump acolytes. This escalation of hate can easily evolve into what happened in Germany in the 1920s: violent clashes between the left and right. The left (and others) had been scapegoated as the problem with Germany. That set the stage for their punishment and the descent into fascism. In the US, long-term propaganda from the right has created a mindset where the left is not only hated but not believed in anything they say or write. The left is portrayed as a putrid force, destroying nations. Fascism always polarizes nations into the righteous “us†versus the evil “them.†Trump’s creation of this mindset has been masterful in a fascist sort of way.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Terry Anderson, Northeast side
I am concerned about transgender females (born male) competing in sports as a female. It started many years ago when a transgender female (born male) competed in tennis tournaments and more recently when a transgender female (born male) won a collegiate swimming event by several laps and took a medal away from a female (born female) who had trained many years for this event, and then there was the volleyball debacle at San Jose were other teams forfeited rather than play against a team with a transgender female (born male).
Have you ever seen a transgender male (born female) fighting to participate in college athletics? Of course not because he would be at a physical disadvantage having never gone through puberty as a male, just as transgender females (born male) are at a physical advantage having gone through puberty as a male. If little Johnny want to play spots he should do so as a male and go through conversion later in life the way Bruce Jenner did.
Terry Anderson
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Jose Salgado, Northeast side
What is all the talk about President Biden selling off steel that was supposed to be used for the southern wall that the convict Trump is talking about. Why do we have steel that was supposed to be used for the wall? As I remember the convict’s previous campaign, Mexico was going to pay for the wall. If Mexico was going to pay for the wall we would not have parts of it to sell. They would be Mexico’s problem. Did he flip on that too? President Biden should not be the one the convict is talking to.
Jose Salgado
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
Pardon me
With hundreds of individuals convicted of various crimes resulting from the insurrection and riot at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021, we await the predicted pardoning of said criminals by Trump. Will he pardon some, many, or all? He said he wouldn’t pardon those convicted of violent actions — I don’t believe him. Given his own criminal instincts, I believe he will pardon all or most, with the possible exception of those convicts who expressed remorse at their actions. That would be consistent with the perverted sense of truth and justice DJT has shown. He is even insisting that those who serve in his administration state “who won in 2020,†thus ensuring that those he appoints are just as delusional as he is. 2+2=5, night is day, bad is good. Buckle up.
Norman Epstein, MD
Midtown
Do the Ducey deux
When Doug Ducey was governor, he recruited companies from California to relocate in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥. Most went to Phoenix. The reception in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ was less accommodating. Business gravitated to the valley, not here. That’s fine. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ has its standards. No gentrification. No income inequality. Sure. Now, what if everybody in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ could get ahead? And what if the Hispanics in town could make money faster than the gringos? That opportunity is emerging. In 2024, 60% of the increase in “assets under management†at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ brokers came from the stock market going up (on average). The other 40% came from Mexico. In terms of new money, it all came from Mexico. Pockets of Mexico are booming. America’s “near-shoring†strategy could reinforce the trend. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ is perfectly positioned to be a cross-border gateway. Get that recruiting operation back up and running. Let’s make some money. The future is now.
Walter Ramsley
East side
Re: Dec. 20 letter “Abortion surveillanceâ€
When an acorn fails to become a mighty oak, one may imagine a fictional destiny unachieved, and perhaps even feel a sense of loss, if allowed; but stepping back and considering the grander overview, this projection becomes but one possible imaginary outcome having no reality beyond its imagining. This uniquely human emotional engagement often leads to assignment of disproportionate value to scenarios regarded as unfulfilled. In particular, if an emotional attachment is of sufficient degree, the loss is elevated to the status of unjust deprivation, which, when deliberate intervention is introduced as the cause of this imagined deprivation, evokes a sense of moral conflict that some will embrace as a directive to retaliate in order to assuage that conflict.
But in the end, an acorn is not an oak; and a fetus is not a thinking, perceiving fulfillment of imaginary potential, the loss of which must be avenged. And the only moral violation here is the indefensible intrusion imposed by self-appointed moral arbiters upon the individual freedoms of others.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Federal budget — what a joke!
Once again, there is a temporary federal budget, and people can thus enjoy a “relaxed†holiday season. But nothing has been solved; the key issues have not been addressed; it’s all window-dressing. Trump and Musk failed to muscle the Republicans to submit under their control and to lift all debt ceilings in perpetuity (whew!). The U.S. has already reached a tipping point with $36 trillion in debt. Banks find this very profitable because we all owe them $106,000 per person per year. We tremendously overspend in healthcare, bureaucracy, the military, and, above all, tax cuts for the rich. Trump has plenty of experience with not paying his taxes or debts, like lots of other billionaires that suck our country dry. Once he gets into power, we are set to be on a wild ride down a slippery slope, but voters supported him and a whole bunch of dysfunctional congressmen and -women. Fiscal responsibility is apparently an abominable term across the political aisles these days.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ stops sale of border wall parts
After reading this article, I harken back to the first campaign of the liar-in-chief saying he’d build a border wall and Mexico would pay for it. Why would anyone be upset with selling Mexico’s scrap material? It’s because Mexico invested zero dollars/pesos to the building of the wall that 45 promised. Now I’ve read, “It’s very expensive, and now it’s about double the price of what it would have been six years ago,†Trump said on Monday. ‘â€nd the (Biden) administration is trying to sell it for five cents on the dollar, knowing that we’re getting ready.†Ready for what? Ready to bilk the American military and DPS out of money that could go to our troops and public safety departments? Or for actual infrastucture of the United States, like Biden has done? When you vote for a liar, you get what you voted for.
John Bingham
Northwest side
The scourge of school shootings
Re: “Break nation’s curse of gunfire in our schools.†The Wisconsin State Journal makes many accurate and valid points about the “carnage of school shootings that curses America.†Particularly persuasive and shocking is the comparison of the number of shootings in the U.S. versus those in other developed countries.
However, I was amazed to not see any mention of the primary and specific reasons that account for our outrageous statistics. Chief among those is the omnipresence of guns — more than the U.S. population. Don’t forget the gun industry, the NRA and the lack of universal background checks, resulting in, for example, unstable 18-year-olds being able to purchase AR-15s (24 million in the U.S.) and other semi-automatic weapons. The more guns and the fewer the enforceable laws, the more school shootings.
Peter Bourque
Midtown
Trumps’ Frankenstein
It seems that in Musk, Trump has created his own Frankenstein whom he may not be able to control. I wonder how long the togetherness of these two birds of a feather will last. Already, Musk is enmeshed in foreign policy. In Germany, where Musk has praised the ultra-right AfD (Alternative for Germany), he is already referred to as the “shadow president.â€
Carola Myers
Foothills
Thank you for the Christmas morning paper!
Thank you very much for not publishing a picture of donald trump (lowercase intentional) in your Dec. 25 paper!
Ken Shearer Northeast side
Cause & effect?
Sometimes, people born into poverty live their lives in poverty. Sometimes, people decide they are not going to live in poverty. It may be more probable that a person born into poverty may remain in poverty, but it is not a foregone conclusion. We all have choices and opportunities, though opportunities are more often missed than recognized.
By the reasoning of a Dec. 21 LTE and Dec. 18 article, a child born to an alcoholic parent and fervent religious parent should become a religious alcoholic. Guess again.
All people, except those with mental/physical limitations and/or mental health problems, have opportunities to change their circumstances. Some have more opportunities than others. It’s like the person riding on public transit complaining to someone over his iPhone he can’t afford to buy a car. A choice was made about managing money regarding the iPhone and a car.
James Abels
Midtown
Interesting misinterpretation
My thanks to Phil Lyons for an interesting and remarkably misguided interpretation of my article about murder and medical insurance. The gist of my article was that when our medical “system†puts profit over patients, it’s not surprising that the patients become angry. When I said I did not condone murder, I meant it; that was not simply an “obligatory statement,†as Mr. Lyons suggests. But in our gun-happy culture, surely it’s not surprising that national anger might find a violent way to express itself. Before we go removing me from any school system, or telling our Opinion page editor to go to the Food section, perhaps Mr. Lyons might learn to read with greater care.
Kendra Gaines
Foothills
Try humor
The terrible Trump conspiracy warrants little shafts of ridicule against well-deserved targets that highlight MAGA’s crudeness, meanness, and the poverty of their thought.
The whole motley bunch deserves to be mocked and laughed at for their fruitcake pretensions of making America great by tearing down whatever is fine and decent and leaving behind a troubled state of mind for the rest of us.
For now, lies aplenty and intimidation are playing well with Trump’s approval. But when his unrestrained followers and the millions of his mistaken voters discovered that while they were giving voice praising our symbol of freedom, the Eagle, our next president was busy plucking the Golden Goose.
In time, there may be another march on Washington, but this time it will be the unions, the farmers, the middle class, and anyone else who feels aggrieved by Trump and his out-of-control regime.
So, our best offense here is ridicule, wit, and satire. Anger is a dud. Arguing is a loser. Try humor.
Ron Lancaster
North side
World problem
For many years, the disagreement over whether there is global warming or climate change has brought neither resolution nor consensus. Yet, the world continues to have drought and increasingly bad storms. The world migration is evidence that people are trying to find better places to live. The bottom line, whether or not you agree with climate change, is that there are not enough resources to support the world population. The result of this has been seen countless times in history; the needy wage war to obtain a bigger share of the available commodities. The incoming administration needs to look at this instead of retribution for past perceived offenses. This means better leaders are needed than what has been proposed by the new administration. If the issue is not addressed, unlawful immigration will lead to armed conflict with those who think they deserve more of what they think we have.
Charles Hammond
Northwest side
- Terry Etherton Special to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:
We are quickly approaching Shen Yun season again. It is impossible to avoid the ads on the internet, billboards and flyers.
Shen Yun is scheduled to perform in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ in February. They will perform at The Ronstadt Performing Arts Center. Here is what the public should know: Shen Yun is currently under investigation by the State of New York for labor violations. Apparently, they have hired under-age dancers who make very little money and who are harassed if they choose to leave. They are often denied medical attention. Very much like Scientology. Shen Yun is currently being sued by ex-dancers for abuse. A recent NY Times investigation revealed numerous cases of abuse of the dancers. The article titled “Behind the Pageantry of Shen Yun, Untreated Injuries and Emotional Abuse†is available on the internet.
Shen Yun performers are members of Falun Gong, a far-right organization whose leader, Li Zonghzi, claims to have godlike powers. He claims that he can levitate. He has made many racist and anti-LGBT statements. He has often said that the children of mixed-race couples cannot get into heaven. Li claims that race mixing in humans is part of an alien plot to drive humanity further from the gods. He is a very wealthy con man who lives in a heavily guarded compound in upstate New York. Shen Yun has the Epoch Times as their mouthpiece. The Epoch Times is a far-right publication that strongly supported Trump in 2016, 2020 and 2024. They consider Trump a savior because they believe he is hard on China. Among those who endorse the Epoch Times have been Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn and others from the MAGA world. They continue to spread the “big lie.â€
The Chief Financial Officer of the Epoch Times was recently arrested for stealing $65 million from the Epoch Times. These people are not who they want you to believe they are. Supporting Shen Yun is supporting a very right-wing organization which is currently under investigation for abuse.
The Shen Yun performance is anti-science, anti-woman and anti-LGBT. The far-right message is there for all to see. This is not just a dance performance. Do your homework. Google “Shen Yun controversy†and read about who these folks really are. Please let your elected officials know that this kind of thing should not be supported by the City of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ and Pima County.
- Daniel Pryor, West side
The letter writer wants input from Daily Star readers on DEI, "Christmas thoughts" (Dec. 26):
Diversity: Forces hiring practices in the workforce to be accomplished according to race, not by merit. Skill level is secondary to race-quota criteria. Social influencer Robby Starbuck has caused major corporations to drop their DEI principles. Examples are Tractor Supply, John Deere, Harley Davidson, Lowe's, Ford. Equity: Some high schools have removed certain education standards. Students are graduating according to equal outcomes instead of proficiency in math, language, etc. In 2021, Oregon tried this in their public high schools but have since reversed such policy. Inclusion: LGBTQ lifestyles being implemented into corporate policies because of pressure from the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. Robby Starbuck also caused Molson Coors, Toyota, Walmart, and Caterpillar Inc. to drop the Corporate Equality Index from their corporate policies.
Call this the cases of guilty consciences, but it works.
Daniel Pryor
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Charles Hammond, Northwest side
For many years the disagreement over whether there is global warming or climate change has brought neither resolution nor consensus. Yet, the world continues to have drought and increasingly bad storms. The world migration is evidence that people are trying to find better places to live. The bottom line, whether or not you agree with climate change, is that there are not enough resources to support the world population. The result of this has been seen countless time in history; the needy wage war to obtain a bigger share of the available commodities. The incoming administration needs to look at this instead of retribution for past perceived offenses. This means better leaders are needed than what has been proposed by the new administration. If the issue is not addressed, unlawful immigration will lead to armed conflict with those who think they deserve more of what they think we have.
Charles Hammond
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Norman Epstein, MD, Midtown
With hundreds of individuals convicted of various crimes resulting from the insurrection and riot at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021, we await the predicted pardoning of said criminals by Trump. Will he pardon some, many, or all? He said he wouldn’t pardon those convicted of violent actions — I don’t believe him. Given his own criminal instincts, I believe he will pardon all or most, with the possible exception of those convicts who expressed remorse at their actions. That would be consistent with the perverted sense of truth and justice DJT has shown. He is even insisting that those who serve in his administration state “who won in 2020†thus ensuring that those he appoints are just as delusional as he is. 2+2=5, night is day, bad is good. Buckle up.
Norman Epstein, MD
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Peter Bourque, Midtown
Re: “Break nation’s curse of gunfire in our schools.†The Wisconsin State Journal makes many accurate and valid points about the “carnage of school shootings that curses America.†Particularly persuasive and shocking is the comparison of the number of shootings in the U.S. versus those in other developed countries.
However, I was amazed to not see any mention of the primary and specific reasons that account for our outrageous statistics. Chief among those is the omnipresence of guns -- more than the U.S. population. Don’t forget the gun industry, the NRA and the lack of universal background checks, resulting in, for example, unstable 18-year-olds being able to purchase AR-15s (24 million in the U.S.) and other semi-automatic weapons. The more guns and the fewer the enforceable laws, the more school shootings.
Peter Bourque
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
After reading this article I harken back to the first campaign of the liar in chief saying he'd build a border wall and Mexico would pay for it. Why would anyone be upset with selling Mexico's scrap material? It's because Mexico invested zero dollars/pesos to the building of the wall that 45 promised. Now I've read, "It's very expensive, and now it's about double the price of what it would have been six years ago," Trump said on Monday. '"nd the (Biden) administration is trying to sell it for 5 cents on the dollar, knowing that we're getting ready." Ready for what? Ready to bilk the American military and DPS out of money that could go to our troops and public safety departments? Or for actual infrastucture of the United States, like Biden has done? When you vote for a liar, you get what you voted for.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Robert Gavlak, Midtown
When an acorn fails to become a mighty oak, one may imagine a fictional destiny unachieved, and perhaps even feel a sense of loss, if allowed; but stepping back and considering the grander overview, this projection becomes but one possible imaginary outcome having no reality beyond its imagining. This uniquely human emotional engagement often leads to assignment of disproportionate value to scenarios regarded as unfulfilled. In particular, if an emotional attachment is of sufficient degree, the loss is elevated to the status of unjust deprivation, which, when deliberate intervention is introduced as the cause of this imagined deprivation, evokes a sense of moral conflict that some will embrace as a directive to retaliate in order to assuage that conflict.
But in the end, an acorn is not an oak; and a fetus is not a thinking, perceiving fulfillment of imaginary potential, the loss of which must be avenged. And the only moral violation here is the indefensible intrusion imposed by self-appointed moral arbiters upon the individual freedoms of others.
Robert Gavlak
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Albrecht Classen, Midtown
Once again, there is a temporary federal budget, and people can thus enjoy a "relaxed" holiday season. But nothing has been solved; the key issues have not been addressed; it’s all window-dressing. Trump and Musk failed to muscle the Republicans to submit under their control and to lift all debt ceilings in perpetuity (whew!). The US has already reached a tipping point with $36 trillion in debt. Banks find this very profitable because we all owe them $106,000 per person per year. We tremendously overspend in healthcare, bureaucracy, the military, and, above all, tax cuts for the rich. Trump has plenty of experience with not paying his taxes or debts, like lots of other billionaires that suck our country dry. Once he gets into power, we are set to be on a wild ride down a slippery slope, but voters supported him and a whole bunch of dysfunctional congressmen and -women. Fiscal responsibility is apparently an abominable term across the political aisles these days.
Albrecht Classen
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
- Carola Myers, Foothills
It seems that in Musk, Trump has created his own Frankenstein whom he may not be able to control. I wonder how long the togetherness of these two birds of a feather will last. Already Musk is enmeshed in foreign policy. In Germany, where Musk has praised the ultra-right AfD (Alternative for Germany), he is already referred to as the “shadow president.â€
Carola Myers
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥.
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