Letters to the editor Dec. 11
Holland Lake Lodge
Isn’t the root of the controversy surrounding Holland Lake Lodge an example of NIMBY? (Not In My Back Yard.)
The paradox of NIMBY is, “I got to come here, but I don’t want you to come because you will ruin it.” This is an old song that Montanans have sung for decades.
Holland Lake Lodge is on federal public land and governed by a complex set of laws that apply to all special permit users all over our country. Most ski areas, hiking trails, and campgrounds are on publicly owned lands. I am glad that there are rules and regulations that define how my natural resources can be used, in a way that still allows me to enjoy them.
I regularly see thousands of people enjoying outdoor recreation in Montana. Why should Holland Lake Lodge be different? I trust the permit process to continue to protect our natural resources. I believe the owners of Holland Lake Lodge are following the permit process, and ensuring the project will support everyone’s goals; to keep our Montana Big Sky exceptional so more people can enjoy it.
— Kristen Sohlberg, Missoula
Supreme Court case
I am stunned by AP journalist Ms. Jessica Gresko’s blatant disregard for the First Amendment case before the Supreme Court (Supreme Court taking up clash of religion and gay rights, Dec. 5).
The Supreme Court heard oral arguments about whether the government can force Americans to create art against their core, fundamental beliefs. The case focuses on whether a Christian graphic artist and website designer in Colorado can be forced to create a custom and unique website for an LGBTQ+ wedding. Both parties agreed that the artist did not discriminate against any customers based on their identity. The issue is whether the government can force an artist to create art against her will.
The First Amendment protects speech for the graphic artist in this case, but it is a basic right for all Americans, regardless of their beliefs. A pro-abortion photographer should not be forced to photograph an anti-abortion rally. A Muslim filmmaker should not be compelled to make a Christian movie. The Democratic speechwriter should not be forced to write speeches for Republicans. And, in the case before the Supreme Court, the Christian artist should not be compelled to create work that goes against her beliefs.
This case is not remotely a “clash” between religious groups and gay rights. It is about protecting every American’s fundamental right to create without government threat or intimidation.
— Abby Moscatel, Lakeside
Disabled vets
Our disabled veterans are grossly undercompensated. This travesty of justice is causing enlistments to dry up. Danger!
In FY2023 a totally disabled veteran with no dependents is compensated at the ridiculous rate of $43,463 annually. The National Average Wage Index (NAWI) for 2021 was $60,575 per annum and the median income for 2021 was $70,784. The per capita GDP in 2021 was $69,288, among the highest in the world. Huh?
They have been asking various administrations and Congress for fair compensation since the end of World War I in November 1918. That was 104 years ago!
In my opinion the basic reason for their gross under compensation situation is because they are only compensated for projected loss of wages due to their disabilities. They are not compensated for their low quality of life which is the norm now in personal injury cases in court. This is done to keep taxation low for the wealthy elites.
So this means that the people that had their assets and overseas business interests protected the most by our now broken former troops pay essentially nothing to support them in their brokenness.
Congress must correct this now!
— Consuella Landers, Helena