Dear Editor,

I’m writing in response to the letter from Molly Stepanski that was published in your paper on July 8, 2024. She stated her opinion that The Alpena News should not include a religious column, which she says is inappropriate for a community newspaper. I’d like to know why she thinks it has anything to do with the separation of church and state (which she mentions in her letter) because the newspaper is independently owned and not a governmental entity. In my opinion the faith-based column is a welcome addition to your newspaper. I’d much rather read about religion than politics, but of course as informed citizens it’s important to be aware of all points of view.

No one is forcing people to read any particular article, and freedom of the press is essential to our democracy.

Sincerely,

GLORIA WEAVER,

Alpena