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Letters to the Editor

We can help refugees, but not disabled vets?

I read today Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration quietly launched back in October a program to give up to $500 per month for up to 12 months to migrants and refugees for rent assistance. I guess this was done without input from the state Legislature. What is going on in our state and country? For the past few months, I have been trying to get the status of the disabled veteran license plate changed from an accessory plate to what it really is: a disabled plate with the ability to park in handicap parking. In this country, 26 states require a veteran to be 100% disabled to get ...

Americans must place truth above religion

On one side, we have Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. A businessman. Donald Trump just being Donald Trump. Donald Trump doing what Donald Trump always does. Going about his businesses and doing nothing wrong. On the other side, we have Evangelicals espousing Christian values. Donald Trump sent by God. A man not limited by truths, laws, and moral considerations. A man that can not even hold the Bible properly. Donald Trump, their prophet. Donald Trump, their savior. Evangelicals, acting on the belief that Donald Trump once reelected will continue to support them. Moving ...

Are we still the shining house upon the hill?

Good morning! This letter may appear to be early. However, I feel strongly that it could be my last opportunity of choice to clarify my love and respect for the nation that has been described and clearly praised historically as the shining house upon the hill. That house has tragically become a house of cards. Eminent destruction through daily suicide is destroying it from within. We are and have always been seen as the greatest hope against evil and the source light of freedom from within and without. We have also been abused and disparaged and many of us have fallen aside from ...

Parents should choose which books kids read

I am writing this letter to strongly urge the library to keep the book “All Boys Aren’t Blue” in the young adult section of the library. Our local youth deserve to have a diverse selection of books available to them. Using passages out of context as grounds to move or ban a book, which is being done in this case, ignores the overall importance of the book for some readers. We live in a diverse society and our library needs to be inclusive. Letting one group dictate what is appropriate for others denies individuals the freedom to choose for themselves, and, for our ...

Know the facts about Plaza Pool and the APlex

A new community pool for Alpena is in the initial planning stages. On the community survey, it asked several specific questions about the pool as well as our other community sport and recreation needs — such as more indoor gyms. Reading through the open-ended comments, it was noted how often erroneous information was commented on by the public. Moving forward as supporters of a new pool, it is important that community members have the correct information to share with others. 1.) The Alpena Plaza Pool is owned by Alpena County but is not funded with general fund taxpayer ...

Medical bracelet great, important program

I really enjoyed the recent article in The Alpena News regarding the Miles for Memories program sponsored by the Senior Center. It is an excellent program but the article did not explain fully the many reasons the program exists. I wear a my/ID bracelet but do NOT have dementia. I’m a senior who wears the bracelet just to be safe. When you get the bracelet, you enter into the online program all information you wish to have known to first responders. Your name, address, and other information, such as any medical issues you have, allergies, medications, etc. Then you can list emergency ...