Opinion News
Letters to the editor, 11-5
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Election
Has convictions
Suzan Nolan is an excellent candidate to represent District 32 and South Dakota. I have known Suzan Nolan for 20 years and I have seen her work hard and long for the good of others.
Commitment to families and children, education and justice issues will be priorities in her leadership. Suzan will work for you and bring a strong voice to Pierre for everyone who cares about these issues. Many people have opinions; she has convictions.
Vote for Suzan Nolan.
DONNA ROBINSON
Rapid City
Award winner
It is important for voters to know about the accomplishments and contributions of candidates. Suzan Nolan received the West River Counselor of the Year Award and the Orv Schmeidling Award for extraordinary work in the profession of school counseling.
In 2001 she was the recipient of the Wind Beneath My Wings Award from the Health and Human Services Committee of the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce. For her outstanding contributions to the lives of women in our community, Suzan received the Athena Award.
Suzan's record of service includes volunteering at the Pennington County Jail, serving on the Big Brothers/Sisters board and a mediator for Restorative Justice, for which board she has been president.
Her organizational and communication skills were demonstrated and further developed as Midwest Region Vice President of the American School Counselor Association, the Elementary Vice President of the South Dakota School Counselor's Association, president of S.D. School Counselor's Association and board member of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Dr. Suzan Nolan is a practiced planner, negotiator, organizer, who is respectful and realistic in her work with people. She has a history of service and will represent District 32 very well.
CAROL MERWIN
Rapid City
Cleaner standard
Dennis Finch and Tom Katus, who are running for state Senate, have opponents with questionable conduct about them that everyone should take closer scrutiny.
Dennis Schmidt is a Republican come-lately by being an independent, picking up petitions and saying that he is a Republican, when in fact he was not. Can voters trust a state Senator that tells little lies as a candidate? I ask voters to trust Dennis Finch, candidate for District 33 Senate.
Elli Schwieshow received a large sum of primary campaign money from a person who, the last I knew, lost a sexual harassment lawsuit. I have not heard that Elli returned that money. Are Elli's standards such that she will take large funds from a person like this and continue to claim herself as a higher-standard person?
Because of the campaign finance funding laws in South Dakota, we will not know until after the general election how much of the questionable money Elli has received. Voters need to ask about Elli's standards and trusting a state senator with two sets of standards.
I ask voters to set a cleaner standard and vote for Tom Katus, candidate for District 32 Senate.
RITCHIE NORDSTROM
Rapid City
Committed to serve
I'm writing in support of Dr. Sarge Preston for Pennington County Commission. Dr. Preston is founder of RapidCare, and he understands how to run a business. He is a hard-working, sincere and intelligent man who is committed to serving our community.
In particular, I support his desire to protect the quality and quantity of our water supply. As we continue to grow as a county, we need commissioners like Sarge to remember that economic development will ultimately be stifled if we destroy the natural resources on which that growth is built.
Dr. Preston has the skills, knowledge and commitment to serve Pennington County.
Please join me in supporting Dr. Sarge Preston for county commission this Nov. 7.
HOMER KANDARAS
Rapid City
Listening skills
Jeff Nelsen listens. I believe it is an important skill because our representatives need to listen to the people they represent. Along with his listening skills, Jeff has a wide range of work experiences and the education that will guide him in voting on business, education and health issues that are important to residents of South Dakota.
I encourage voters to vote for Jeff Nelsen on Election Day.
KAREN RABEN
Rapid City
Great people
The election is drawing near and there are some great people running for the Legislature and for county commission. I have had the pleasure of working with Mike Buckingham on legislative issues for the past several years, issues that were of great importance to our district, and he always has had the interest of the people of the district in mind.
We, as local legislators, have a long history of working with Commissioner Ken Davis and the other commissioners on critical issues for the county, and Brenda Young is going to be a great addition to the commission and will be working hard for you as a new county commissioner, who will bring her experience and her can-do attitude to benefit the people of the district and someone who will work well with the other commissioners and the newly elected legislators as they tackle problems facing our county.
You can't go wrong with these two committed people.
Above all, please vote on or before Nov 7. Your vote counts.
Sen. J.P. DUNIPHAN
District 33
Rapid City
A mistake
How can anyone claim HB1215 takes away their liberties or rights? Abortion is not some age-old liberty upon which our great nation was founded.
It's merely a 33-year-old mistake, and in fact, abortion stands in violation of the three undeniable freedoms cited by our Declaration of Independence. Every human being has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Abortion denies children of the first and therefore all three, and women of the latter two through guilt and depression, which causes an increased risk of substance abuse and other negative behavior. This is anything but the pursuit of happiness!
Are we really going to let a 33-year-old mistake continue to deny millions of women and children of their foundational liberties and rights as citizens of our great nation? The laws of this country are supposed to protect those liberties and those rights; Referred Law 6 does exactly that.
Vote Yes for life and liberty on Referred Law 6!
HANNAH PAXSON
Rapid City
Proactive
I'm supporting John Koskan for the PUC. John is proactive in energy development, proactive in expanding telecommunications, proactive in increased economic development, and proactive in rural and urban areas of S.D.
He has accomplished much already while serving as a member of the S.D. Senate. He helped create the S.D. Energy Infrastructure Authority; he is a strong supporter of wind energy tax credits; he was a key player in creation of more transmission lines; and is a proud ally in the expansion of ethanol.
John and his wife, Vera, operate a farm/ranch in south central South Dakota. He graduated from the S.D. School of Mines & Technology with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1977.
John has served 16 years in the Legislature and is currently the Senate assistant majority leader. John Koskan was an excellent legislator and now he will be an excellent member of the PUC.
Vote John Koskan for PUC.
ELLI SCHWIESOW
Rapid City
Fair system
Those who can defend themselves from ever-increasing property tax assessments have gathered to defeat Amendment "D," the Property Tax Stabilization Measure.
I ask these business leaders, Realtors, chamber of commerce officials and corporation CEOs: "Do you want Amendment 'D' to fail because you have a way to defend your property under the current tax system and aren't sure you can accomplish the same under Amendment D?"
Working people should be able to live in their homes and not be forced out of their homes by high taxes.
Amendment "D" is a fair system! Look at your assessment increases since 1992. Mine rose 27 percent in four years. Under Amendment D, they could have raised no more than 12 percent.
A stable tax system helps create growth and jobs. Tax stability keeps families in their homes, their businesses, on their farms and ranches.
When celebrities (Ted Turner) buy property in S.D., they should have the privilege of paying the tax on the sale price, rather than raising the assessed value of their neighbors' property, thereby forcing their neighbors to help pay the celebrity's taxes.
Vote "Yes" on Amendment D and stabilize your assessed value.
RICHARD L. HOFF
Rapid City
Right person
Current School and Public Lands (SPL) Commissioner Bryce Healy deserves our support as he seeks re-election. Over his past four years in office, Healy has crossed party lines in order to increase educational funding and reduce the property tax burden on South Dakota landowners. Thanks to his leadership, public schools and endowed institutions received over $100 million from the SPL office.
Healy understands what it takes to meet the goals of his office, and he is dedicated to making South Dakota a better place for our children.
We have known Bryce and his family for years. However, our support goes far beyond a personal relationship. We know Bryce Healy is the right person for this job.
Bryce Healy understands the needs of landowners on both sides of the river, and he is committed to building yet another bridge between these two areas.
Commissioner Healy has proven himself in office, and he has worked tirelessly to support every South Dakotan. On Nov. 7, we can thank him for his work by re-electing him as the SPL commissioner.
Vote for Bryce Healy on Nov. 7. Put your confidence in the man dedicated to making South Dakota a better place for future generations.
AMY & JAY BLUM
Reliance
By the numbers
When people go the polls on Nov. 7, here are some facts and figures to consider about the proposal to repeal South Dakota's tax on cell phone companies:
0 - The number of South Dakota organizations favoring the repeal of the cell phone tax.
0 - The number of South Dakota newspaper editorials favoring the repeal of the cell phone tax.
1 - The number of New Jersey corporations (Verizon Wireless) trying to change South Dakota's tax structure to get a multi-million dollar tax break.
1 - The number of South Dakota state senators that favor increasing property taxes on South Dakota taxpayers so multi-billion dollar cell phone companies can get a tax break (he is also the Big Cell Phone Companies' leading spokesman).
6 - The number of South Dakota newspapers taking editorial positions against repeal of the cell phone tax (Sioux Falls, Watertown, Aberdeen, Yankton, Mitchell and Sioux Falls Business Journal as of Oct. 27).
119 - The number of South Dakota-based organizations (including major business, ag, school, local government, public safety and telecommunications groups) opposing repeal of the cell phone tax.
If you add up all the numbers, it equals a N0 vote on Initiated Measure 8.
GREG DEAN
Co-Chair, Vote NO on 8 Committee
Pierre
Person, not property
Chris Seljeskog (Oct. 27 letter) said we should keep abortion legal so that the majority can "protect the lives of their ... unborn children." And pro-choicers can abort their children if they want. He says this will "respect" the views of the minority."
Chris, you would have made a great slave owner! That's what they said before the Civil War! If you want slaves, have them. If you don't, don't buy them!
"Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves; and, under a just God, cannot long retain it" - Abraham Lincoln, April 6, 1859.
Chris, the problem is the same. A slave is a human! A fetus is a human!
Everything in law is either a person or a property. They are not "property of the owner" or "property of the mother." They are their own body and blood and DNA, inside or outside of the womb! That makes the baby a person.
We cannot tolerate the termination of babies any more than we could tolerate the enslavement of African-Americans. The pro-abortion minority wants to deny civil rights to the one-third of our children "terminated" since Roe vs. Wade.
We must not tolerate such discrimination!
SHARON TITUS
Black Hawk
Earned my vote
In a time where partisan bickering is at an all-time high, I will once again proudly cast my vote for Stephanie Herseth. Stephanie is a shining example of what is right with politics today, and the Congress would be better off if there were more like her.
She is more than willing to support good ideas from either party. After all, a good idea is a good idea, and it shouldn't matter who thought of it. Additionally, she has continued to refuse to stoop to the level of negative, dirty politics. Unfortunately, she's been the target of some nasty attacks over the years, but as always, she handles it with class and poise.
Thank you, Stephanie Herseth, for your work on behalf of our state. You've earned my vote once again.
RACHEL GUNDERSON
Rapid City
Hysteria
The opponents of Amendment D opposed D before they even read it. They heard about the petition drive, Googled Prop 13, and regurgitated the rhetoric from those sites about Amendment D.
D is not even close to California's Prop 13. The opponents' letters claiming dramatically different taxes on neighboring property is unrealistic.
Prop 13 limited assessment increases to a maximum of 2 percent; Amendment D allows a maximum of 3 percent. The real-estate market in California averaged 7 percent; the real estate market in South Dakota is less than 4 percent. The net effect, after 20 years, in a 4 percent market, within a 3 percent inflation economy and a 5 percent turnover rate, is the new homeowner will pay about 20 percent more in taxes.
That's right folks, 20 percent, or less than $50 a month when comparing two homes that started out at $100,000 20 years ago.
The groups opposing Amendment D have not generated a single spreadsheet or any kind of scientific analysis to support their ridiculous claims. All they have is unsubstantiated hysteria based on statements about California's Prop 13. I have a spreadsheet, and I will be glad to share it.
Vote Yes on D.
RICK KRIEBEL
Rapid City
Doesn't 'un-rape'
As a man, I'm sometimes asked: "What if your daughter was raped and became pregnant? Would you want her to be forced to carry the baby to term?"
As horrendous as the crime of rape is, abortion doesn't "un-rape" a woman. I would not want my daughter to compound her injury by being a party to the taking of an innocent life, and then having to deal with the guilt and shame of her choice for years afterwards.
Forcible rape rarely results in pregnancy, but if it happened to my daughter, I would want her to carry her child, giving life to a new human being and thus bringing something good out of a truly traumatic event.
JIM MUNRO
Rapid City
The beginning
If Referred Law 6 passes, the Journal blames voters for the potential financial burden in the Supreme Court. Yet it would be Planned Parenthood who instigates the challenge and expense by their disrespect for the "Choice" of the voters.
You disregard the fund arranged by the Legislature for private donors who have committed $1 million and their desire to help with the costs.
You completely ignore that HB1215 was bipartisan during a time in our nation's politics when bipartisanship is never safe and quite rare!
You focus on less than 3 percent of the abortions that are done for rape or incest reasons and ignore how perpetrators of this crime conveniently hide their conceived children by abortion. They live to rape and molest again and again. How do you justify washing your hands of this?
You overlook medical advancements that have virtually removed any valid reasons for abortion.
When has pregnancy become a disease? Pregnancy is a normal, healthy condition, whereas numerous medical studies prove abortion can cause serious mental and physical problems.
There are social problems we as a society need to address. Outlawing abortion is the beginning of this process, not the end.
Please vote Yes on 6.
CLARK SOWERS
Belle Fourche
Senate report
A recent U.S. Senate Judiciary subcommittee received the following testimony from a collection of medical experts (Subcommittee on Separation of Powers to Senate Judiciary Committee S-158, Report, 97th Congress, 1st Session, 1981):
"There is no debate within the medical community as to when life begins. Life begins at conception. Therefore, every 'successful' abortion ends the life of a living human being. Consider the testimony below from some leading embryology textbooks.
"Professor Micheline Matthews-Roth, Harvard University Medical School: 'It is incorrect to say that biological data cannot be decisive. ... It is scientifically correct to say that an individual human life begins at conception.'
"Dr. Jerome LeJeune, Professor of Genetics, University of Descartes: 'After fertilization has taken place a new human being has come into being.'
"Professor Hymie Gordon, Mayo Clinic: 'By all the criteria of modern molecular biology, life is present from the moment of conception.'"
The official Senate report: "Physicians, biologists, and other scientists agree that conception marks the beginning of the life of a human being - a being that is alive and is a member of the human species. There is overwhelming agreement on this point in countless medical, biological, and scientific writings."
Visual evidence at: http://www.abort73.com/HTML/I-case.html.
ERNEST FOSS Jr.
Black Hawk
Not the answer
Great! Let's take a regressive tax system, add a measure of inequity, and then we can have the worst of both worlds. Most of the time, when newspapers endorse an initiative, they put some thought into it, but the Journal's endorsement of Amendment D makes one question just what they were smoking.
Yes, we definitely want to support a system that penalizes any upcoming homebuyers. And we certainly wouldn't want to encourage someone to improve their existing home, at least not legally. And that elderly couple that has been living in their home for 25 years but can't quite manage to take care of it, let's make it particularly onerous for them to buy a smaller, more manageable home by doubling their property tax. Of course they can move to another state with lower property taxes. This way we can drive South Dakotans out when they are both young and old.
I wholeheartedly agree that the tax system in South Dakota needs reform, but we can do better. Amendment D is not the answer and its repercussions would be profoundly negative.
Vote No on D, and vote for representatives who will help us move forward in a positive direction.
BRIAN SMITH
Rapid City
Important election
Most people never intend to appear before a circuit court judge and therefore don't think the election is an important one. It is.
The man who occupies that seat will make decisions that affect the quality of your life in ways you won't understand until one day, when you log on to www.familywatchdog.us, you realize your next door neighbor is a pedophile ... on probation!
I have known Lance Russell for many years and was recently privileged to accept a position as his deputy state's attorney. For many years, he has successfully managed both civil and criminal matters for Fall River and Shannon counties with a degree of legal skill and administrative competency that will serve his constituency well.
He will bring to the bench the very values that have made him a successful prosecutor: personal accountability, integrity, honesty, and respect for the law.
I urge you to vote for Lance Russell as your next circuit court judge.
KARI L. NORDSTROM
Custer
Man of the people
We would like to write about our Gov. Mike Rounds. We are proud to have a "man of the people" as our governor.
When we have had to work with the governor's office, his concerns are for what is best for all the people of South Dakota. We feel that is what government is supposed to do and we need a leader like Gov. Rounds for four more years.
We encourage all of you to get out and vote for Gov. Mike Rounds this November.
GRADY & BERNICE CREW
Philip
Common ground
As a resident of District 34 I urge my neighbors to vote for Justin Lena for the House of Representatives from District 34. I enthusiastically support Justin because he is the ideal candidate to bring balance to South Dakota politics.
Justin is a committed family man and a hard-working successful businessman. His values are derived from a strong respect for our American traditions of freedom and his belief that personal responsibility is a vital cornerstone of our society. Justin is a reasonable, articulate spokesman for these principles.
Having had the opportunity to discuss community problems with Justin, I know he listens and will not shy away from considering new ideas. For those who value accountability, Justin is unafraid to tell you where he stands.
Mr. Lena places the well-being of society above his personal needs and believes government exists to serve everyone. In these times of divisive politics, Justin will seek opportunities to find common ground and serve all citizens.
I will cast my vote for Justin Lena and urge all District 34 voters to do the same.
RODNEY C. LEFHOLZ
Rapid City
Quality of life
I see many letters regarding outrage over abortion. Abortions are performed because the future parent(s) have decided abortion is better than birth. It is not for me to judge their decision
What I don't see are letters regarding outrage over sexual abuse of a child, or child abuse and neglect. The Journal reports regularly on such offenses. I have not seen protestors holding their signs on this issue.
If all these children who will be saved by banning abortions could be assured of being cared for and protected by the people who are voting for the ban, I would happily vote with them. Forcing parents to have an unwanted child will not provide a safe haven for it just because "a concerned citizen" thought the child should be born.
Until these unwanted children can be assured of quality of life, vote "no" on Referred Law 6.
LINDA SCHILLING
Rapid City
Sympathy for victims
In this day and age, it seems that criminal defendants have more rights in the court system than victims. We need a judge who will stand up and not be afraid to give the victims the rights they have by law and the respect they deserve.
John Fitzgerald has fought hard to preserve victims' dignities and rights during his 27 years as a prosecuting attorney.
The sympathy and compassion he has shown towards the victims of molestation, sexual assault and murder is admirable, and I am confident that he would continue to maintain that level of compassion as a judge while ensuring the defendants are held accountable as much as the law would allow.
Vote Fitzgerald for circuit court judge.
PETE TOKLEY
Belle Fourche
Practices life
As a retired widow, I was not familiar with Tom Katus' large scope of helpful work in a five-state region. Projects involved Native Americans, Caucasians and Africans, from volunteering in the first Peace Corps ever established, to development of small businesses, community centers, foundations, tribal colleges in a five-state area, he has improved many lives.
His goals, when elected, will center upon jobs, health insurance, education. He says, "We need to pay particular attention to providing South Dakota job opportunities to graduates of BHSU, SDSM&T, NAU, Oglala Lakota College and Western Dakota Tech."
He has three children, two of whom are adopted; he practices life. He feels we do not need preachy, holier-than-thou legislators, mostly men, to tell us how to deal with private spiritual matters. He will work to promote health and sex education to help avoid unwanted pregnancies and raise healthy families.
As I was learning about the capabilities of this educated, experienced man, my doorbell rang. Then I met Tom Katus on a cold and windy evening. It confirmed my intention to vote for this accomplished man with the infectious smile.
CLAIRE MAYER
Rapid City
Fair taxes
Like George Gobel said on Johnny Carson, "You feel like the world is a tuxedo and you are a pair of brown shoes." That's how I feel as a Realtor voting "Yes" on constitutional Amendment D to stabilize real property taxes.
My fellow Realtors have formed a coalition and received $100,000 from the State and National Association to defeat Amendment D.
Supporters of Amendment D don't have a coalition or war chest. Only you.
Let's look at the real issue, the state Constitution. It says taxes shall be uniform on all property of the same class. That's not fair. Without equal income, we can't pay equal taxes.
Taxes are determined by the total value of property times the mil levy. If new buyers are not taxed on their purchasing power, those not buying pick up the difference.
Help the young families, seniors, businesses and established agricultural families stay in the homes or on the land they already own. They can't pay taxes on someone else's purchases. To do that, the constitution needs to be changed from equal to fair.
Vote "Yes" on constitutional Amendment D.
SYLVIA CONRAD
Rapid City
Forward-thinking
I strongly support Jack Billion for governor. As a life-long resident of S.D., I have rarely felt such enthusiasm for a gubernatorial candidate.
Jack is an honest, decent man who offers forward-thinking ideas for the state of S.D. As a fellow physician, I urge you to vote for him as I will on Nov 7.
NANCY PHIPPS, M.D.
Rapid City
Tries to mislead
The Journal officially endorsed a No vote on Referred Law 6 (Oct. 22). It claims the abortion ban "goes too far" (wording straight from the No campaign). This is an unfair, pro-abortion bias.
In the previous day's paper, Kelly Patterson, a counselor and victim of sexual assault, thoroughly explained why abortion is terrible for victims. I disagree with the Journal, but I understand concern for the feelings of victims of sexual assault.
I could have accepted the Journal's intentions if they didn't continue their attack with saying that RL 6 sets up "a costly court battle that South Dakota can't afford to defend." This argument exposes the editors' deceit! They are not so ignorant that they do not know about the private fund already set up to offset the cost of a lawsuit. Furthermore, more than one law firm has already expressed interest in representing the state pro bono!
If the Rapid City Journal were so interested in victims, they would not intentionally and repeatedly try to mislead the S.D. taxpayers! I am dissatisfied in the Journal's not-so-covert campaigning. I am very disappointed in the lack of objective journalism.
JASON SHAVER
Rapid City
Fresh start
Sometimes you just need a fresh start. Having lived in South Dakota for over 40 years, I know that there are important values that we need to hold on to. But when necessary, we also need to consider change.
The South Dakota Legislature seems to have come to a dead end when it comes to working on the problems facing our state. There are a few things that stick out in my mind.
Despite years of tinkering, our education system still lacks the proper resources. Also, I don't like the fact that every single bill that would have made government more accessible to the people was defeated on party-line votes.
If the politicians don't want to change, then we should change for them. I know what I'm going to do on Nov. 7. I'm going to vote for a change.
JANIS VOLK
Rapid City
They don't care
Last winter, soon after bringing my newborn home following an anxiety-filled week in NICU, I received a tract in the mail with a picture of a headless fetal corpse on one side and biblical verses on the other. I tore it up, my husband promptly threw it away. It was trash we didn't want our little girl to see.
This was sent to my private residence, apparently, because I had the temerity to send a letter to the Journal - a public forum - questioning whether the local anti-abortion rights movement is really pro-life. The tract was mailed by a local businessman, a name in the local anti-rights group.
I was in an abusive relationship once; I know what it is to be menaced and threatened. That's exactly what that tract was designed to do.
Would a group which "cares about women" do this? What if that mailing had found a mother whose child had just died? One who had had a "forced" abortion and still agonized about it? One suffering from post-partum depression who was capable of doing something tragic? A woman who could so easily have been pushed over the edge?
These people don't care about women.
ROCHELLE HAGEL
Rapid City
Dignity of life
A mother's womb is designed to be a haven for her developing child, but now with abortion, it has become America's largest graveyard.
Those who argue women's choice are missing a key concept. Freedom of choice is not permission to do anything we want. Since we live in a society, our society has laws in which our freedom of choice is incorporated. Our choices must be made accountable.
Why should the choice to abort a child be treated any differently from the choice to murder a child? Unbridled freedom of choice denies consequences to actions.
If a mother were to tell her child that she wishes she would have aborted it, the mother would be decidedly abusive, yet if she actually does - that is her choice.
But no, that is not a choice - it is a human life.
I am shocked and disgusted that the right to choose has become a higher priority than the dignity of human life.
Vote yes on Referred Law 6, because like the unborn, I am too young to have a voice. I must depend on my fellow South Dakotans to set standards on how to protect the dignity of life.
ELIZABETH HOFER
Rapid City
Ponder these facts
Like most South Dakotans, you are morally against abortion. You are also against government interference in personal decisions. Now the Legislature and the governor have left you wondering: Can you vote no and still be against abortion? Yes, you can!
I, too, grew up in a Republican, Catholic home in S.D. Luckily, my mother taught me to use common sense and facts for my decision-making, not my religious or political affiliations.
Besides the missing exceptions to HB1215, ponder these facts.
Fact 1: S.D. has strict abortion laws already. Requiring a 24-hour waiting period, parental notification and reporting to the state. This results in S.D. having one of the lowest abortion rates in the country, usually 49th.
Fact 2: If passed, state taxpayers will be responsible for all legal fees associated with a Supreme Court battle.
Fact 3: The morning-after pill is most useful in the first 72 hours. However, by S.D. law, your local pharmacist may refuse to fill it.
Go into that booth and let common sense be your guide. Imagine your daughter, mother, or sister has just been raped and impregnated.
Vote Yes and you let the government choose for her. Vote No to make the choice hers.
WYATT O'DAY, M.D.
Rapid City
Be warned
I read the article, "pastors for moral choice," and Jesus' words came to my mind when I thought, "How could people who claim to be Christian support such abominations as abortion and homosexual unions?"
Jesus said: "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" Matthew 7:21-23.
Do these people fear man more than God? Is it Planned Parenthood whom you honor and worship?
Be warned, the Word of God tells us that those who take leadership and teaching positions will be held more accountable.
1 Corinthians 10:31 tells the Christian that whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Donning your pagan robes and collars and standing with the abortionist and homosexual does not bring glory to God. One last word comes to mind: Repent!
Rev. ANDY ANDERSON
Belle Fourche
Church and state
Stand against government intrusion into your privacy. Keep church and state separate.
Vote No on Referred Law 6.
KATHRYN JOHNSON
Hill City
Most beneficial
We live in the "generic age," so it's no surprise that we are tempted to consider certain domestic arrangements interchangeable with committed marriage between one man and one woman. Our willingness as consumers to accept store-brand substitutes for what we really want may have clouded our vision as to why, in this case, the real thing is more desirable.
Let's say you go to K-mart and buy several strings of lights for your Christmas tree. When you open the packages you discover that all the connectors are female (or male). You can string them on the tree like any other string of lights and the parts themselves are not faulty, but without their counterparts, they cannot produce what is needed. Neither male nor female is adequate alone. Each was designed to complete the other.
Since the dawn of time, monogamous marriage between a man and a woman has proven the most beneficial framework for raising a family. The stability marriage provides to society benefits all of us.
That is why government has a right to define what constitutes a valid marriage as distinguished from other loving relationships. That is what Amendment C does.
Please vote "yes."
TONCHI WEAVER
Rapid City
Waste tax dollars
So, the governor and Sen. Schoenbeck find it necessary to waste our tax dollars with a special legislative session to "investigate" alleged sexual misconduct of a state legislator even though the attorney general has already done so. Is this really more important than calling a special session to fix the problem with South Dakota's death penalty law?
Sure, the Senate can expel Sen. Sutton - after hours of gleeful, likely secret, discussions about sex, impropriety and questionable behavior. Why can't we just trust the voters of Moody County to deal with the matter as they see fit on Nov. 7?
The attorney general has investigated case. No charges have been filed. If the 18-year-old -- and remember that he is old enough to vote and die for his country -- believes he has been the victim of a crime, he should complain to law enforcement and let our legal system do its job.
Time and again, Gov. Rounds and numerous legislators have shown us they don't believe South Dakotans have the proper, well-Rounded, moral values to make good decisions. One decision I will make is to vote for a change in Pierre.
KAREN MCGREGOR
Rapid City
Everything we want
I heartily endorse Dave Lust as your choice for District 34 State House. I admit to a bit of bias in my endorsement since Dave is my friend, business partner and hunting guide.
However, it is precisely because of these experiences with Dave that convince me he is the best candidate to send to Pierre and fight for the kind of S.D. we want now and in the future.
From his background in growing up in a family business, raising his own young family and dispensing counsel as a main street attorney, Dave exemplifies everything we want in our elected leaders.
Your decision to support Dave at the polls will be rewarded with effective, open and honest representation in Pierre.
PATRICK G. GOETZINGER
Rapid City
Protect property
I'm voting for Amendment D because it is time we the voters do something to protect our property from the government. The present property tax system is a sneaky form of eminent domain. If we can't pay our taxes, the government takes our property and forces out of our homes.
Many people, young, middle-aged and elderly, are hurting and have to make the decision to either pay these high property taxes or buy food or medicine.
The young people the opponents talk about are probably not going to get to stay in their new home, because if Amendment D doesn't pass, their tax payments will go up so high they too will be forced out of their homes and into taxpayer-subsidized housing.
Amendment D will be good for everyone because you will know what your taxes will be every year, and with a 3 percent maximum increase, that'll take care of necessary government expenses.
You can then decide if you want to add on to your house, buy more land, a business, etc. You can budget for your next year's taxes instead of getting the dreaded assessment notice and pay 20-30 percent more every year.
Vote Yes on D!
KEITH CONRAD
Rapid City
Fix unfair tax
I've noticed that some Realtors are opposed to Amendment D; they say it's "unfair." What do you think is more fair, to have property valued at the selling (actual purchase price) or to have our property valued artificially, based on nearby property that sold at "California prices"?
Money may be of little concern to those buyers, but when our taxes go up, it becomes a great concern to us, especially if we live on a fixed income.
This is an unfair tax; it's broken and needs to be fixed.
It seems that everyone wants to live in the Black Hills, but our tax system is turning this into another Aspen, Colo., where only the very rich can live. The inflated-price buying spree started in the Hills but now wealthy hunters or Ted Turners are paying millions for ranch land. If this happens to ranches near you, your taxes are going up, even though your income doesn't.
It's time to fix this unfair tax system and Amendment D, with some tweaking, will do the job. Vote yes on D so we won't be taxed out of our homes or businesses.
VERLIN SCHULTZ
Hill City
Better scenario
The cry against Referred Law 6 (HB1215) is that it goes too far, that is, that it does not include exceptions for rape and incest. In 2004, 23 babies were killed in South Dakota because of a crime their fathers committed, how is that possible in a "just" society?
Wouldn't a better scenario be to have the pregnancy prevented (i.e., morning-after-pill administered before conception has occurred), the perpetrator of the horrible crime prosecuted and the woman protected from a second assault on her physical, mental and emotional health? Not to mention, spiritual health.
Women deserve the best protection possible. So does every human being ... man, woman and child in every stage of life.
MARY ORBAN
Box Elder
Renters also pay
The Journal's Oct. 25 editorial was exactly right. I would like to make one additional comment. While it is true "that the poorest families would pay more in property taxes if more of them could afford to buy a home," anyone who rents also pays property taxes - in their rent payment. However, the landlord is paying at the higher commercial rate, so those renters pay a greater percentage of property tax and will also benefit when Amendment D passes.
Vote Yes on D!
CECILIA E. GASTON
Black Hawk
We fear it plenty
The physicians for life group repeatedly states that doctors have no reason to fear Referred Law 6. Let me tell you, we fear it plenty.
It is so poorly worded that physicians will be extremely worried about being second-guessed by attorneys, judges and juries, no matter what decision they make.
Obstetricians will be placed in the untenable position of deciding when the threat to a woman's health becomes a threat to her life. Believe me, this can be a fine line. Must there be a certainty of a fatal outcome? A 90 percent chance? Fifty percent? Something lower?
This is not defined in the law and is not always within a physician's predictive power. Must they call a judge in the middle of the night to help make this decision? What if the mother deteriorates beyond help while these decisions are being made?
The physician is then open to charges of malpractice, manslaughter or murder, but worse yet, may have to watch his patient die or suffer irrevocable harm.
HB1215 is a bad law. Vote No on Referred Law 6.
ANNE FISHER, M.D.
Rapid City
Wake up, you lost
Good Old Stan Adelstein said in his recent letter to District 32 residents, "Believe me, I am not going away or abandoning the public arena." I saw his negative, lying ad on TV against so-called extremists, I had to write this letter.
Stan, wake up, you lost! The voters spoke. Your time in the public arena thankfully was ended by decent, hard-working family voters.
Where was Stan when my property taxes went up another 25 percent? Oh, yeah, he was introducing more legislation to raise more taxes on us poor, unenlightened masses.
Where was Stan when my rights to own a gun were being threatened? Oh, yeah! He was pushing the law to make sure that when adultery was committed by him or whomever, the husband could not sue him or whomever for alienation of affection.
Republican? But his letter (using the State Seal) says he's now a Democrat elected as a Republican.
Is it age? Is his mind confused? My Democratic friends don't want you in their party either. Your money can't buy you love and certainly can't buy elections.
Vote Elli Schwiesow, Dennis Schmidt, Bill Napoli. Real conservatives who believe in principles, not Stan's money games.
SANDRIA FRISKE
Rapid City
Proclaiming truth
I am glad to see that there are signs and posters proclaiming the truth about abortion being displayed at the School of Mines. It's such a pity that this wasn't available during the late '60s and '70s, when high school and college girls were frequently visiting Rapid City's abortion mill. I knew of plenty of girls who "chose" to end the life of another human being growing inside them, more than once.
Join me in voting yes for life, not no for death.
WENDY BAUER
Black Hawk
Unbalanced editorial
Re: your editorial of Oct. 22. Why not say: "Kidnapping law goes too far"? If one uses your logic, why not allow "exceptions" for kidnapping, child abuse, child porn and a host of other crimes against children? Don't these criminals think any law "goes too far"? After all, they are just making "a personal health decision," right?
Why do you dismiss the public testimony of hundreds of women during the hearings on HB1215? Had you read your own Page A7, Megan and Maria's story is the answer to your "exceptions." I dare you to tell your readers little Maria should have been aborted.
You refuse to acknowledge "exceptions" like Miss Gianna Jessen, an abortion survivor who spoke in Rapid City. I challenge you to answer her question: "Where were my rights?"
Your advocacy of "situation ethics" and your disregard for the due process clause of the Bill of Rights is totally irresponsible.
In my opinion, the only "extremism - that goes too far" is your unbalanced journalism.
I am confident voters will reject your bias and vote yes on 6!
GARY C. VELDER
Newell
Stop the insanity
A friend of mine once said, "Insanity is doing the same thing, over and over, and expecting different results." By this definition, the voters of our state must be insane.
I don't think our priorities have changed. We continue to discuss funding for education, health care and providing good-paying jobs in South Dakota to keep our youth here. These issues have resurfaced every two years since video lottery first made the ballot.
This year, let's stop the insanity! If your representatives haven't solved these issues, they probably won't. If they lack the leadership to co-sponsor more than one bill, get rid of them. If the only time you hear from them is after the session, criticizing other lawmakers and pushing issues they should have pushed during the session, then it's time to change. Vote for their opponent. That counts as two votes against them!
Let's stop the insanity. Theresa Spry can do this. She lives her commitment to health care and education. She is a tireless worker, but best of all, she listens to others' views. She wants to work together with us for a better South Dakota.
District 35, vote for Theresa Spry on Nov. 7.
MARK KLINE
Chair, Spry for Senate Campaign
Rapid City
Homophobic reaction
With regard to Amendment C, I suggest that if we were to put as much emphasis on commitment and healthy relationships in any martial relationship, whether heterosexual or homosexual, that we would be spending our on energy on something worthwhile.
A heterosexual marriage of two vindictive, hateful spouses headed for divorce is what damages children, not a loving homosexual union.
Because it's always been done that way, as Elizabeth Kraus infers, is not a reason to continue in what is now a misguided, often homophobic reaction to granting homosexual partners the right to marriage and all the legal rights that ensue.
God made us male and female, heterosexual and homosexual. It is time South Dakotans stand up for the rights of all God's people.
Beyond that, Amendment C presents a real danger to other partnerships as well.
VAUDETH OBERLANDER
Rapid City
Conservation issues
Bryce Healey, incumbent candidate for South Dakota School & Public Lands, has shown great support in the conservation issues here in Custer County. He is a dedicated public official and I urge you to support him in this November election.
SANDRA WALKER
Custer
It's not right
A lot of air time has been spent on the positives of voting yes on Referred Law 6. I am hearing commercials about women who have had abortions claiming they feel sorry now or are suffering some type of emotional turmoil from having one.
The things I am not hearing are coming from those who have been sexually assaulted, both adults and young. Is it right to tell a 14-year-old girl to carry a child she conceived through rape or incest? This has happened, there are statistics out there to prove this. Here, South Dakota is telling not only adults, but children to have children regardless of the way a child is conceived.
People, it is time to stand up for what is right. Abortion is a serious decision to make. I feel very fortunate I don't have to make this decision. But I also feel that we/I are not the ones to tell any woman what she may or may not do with her own body. I am voting No on 6, and I hope those with any compassion or sense do the same. It just isn't right.
BILLY CARRILLO
Spearfish
Voting for change
Why is it that even though the same folks have been in charge in Pierre for 30 years, that South Dakota still has the same problems: low wages, worst teacher pay, and lack of employment opportunities that keep our kids here after they finish school. You'd think that with one party holding the governor's office and the Legislature for so long, they could get something done.
This year I'm voting for change. This year I'm voting for some balance. Pierre has been too one-sided, too long. And last term they went to extremes far beyond the comfort level of moderate South Dakotans.
Justin Lena is a great candidate for the state House. He is a working man, business owner, parent and community leader. He understands how hard it is for Rapid City's working families to make ends meet. He is an advocate for common sense and for the common man, not for corporate special interests. He has new ideas and knows how to work with others to create dialogue and debate.
Justin Lena will bring a truly new voice to Pierre, not just more of the same.
SUZANNE IUDICELLO
MARTLEY
Rapid City
Extremely honest
I have a regret that I cannot vote for Elli Schwiesow because I do not live in her district. She is a mother of five children and is an excellent one. This future senator is extremely honest and has a high sense of social responsibility. She is intelligent and dedicated to making society better.
Please vote for Elli.
HAROLD G. JANSEN
Rapid City
With compassion
Elli Schwiesow is a conservative with compassion.
MARIAN GATES
Rapid City
Strong voice
I write in support of Theresa Spry, who is running for the South Dakota Senate from District 35. Theresa was a member of the support staff when I worked as an elementary counselor in the Rapid City schools some years back.
She demonstrated a strong commitment to the education of all children and clearly cared about helping children succeed in school. She was consistently dependable, creative and effective in her dealings with children, parents and staff.
Theresa has been an actively involved citizen for many years in various community projects. She has shown solid judgment, a willingness to listen to disparate points of view and a special talent for consensus building.
Hers will be a strong voice in the South Dakota Senate for the citizens of District 35!
IRMA BECKER
Rapid City
Impartial judge?
"Did you know ..." that the purpose of a bond is to ensure that the accused appears in court and to protect the public from possible harm. It looks to me like what the six judges in the Seventh Circuit are doing is working! The goal should be no forfeitures.
"The rest of the story ..." regarding Ms. White Butterfly is she had very strict conditions put on her reduced bond, she honored the conditions, appeared in court and is now serving her time and paying her debt to society.
Do either of these political ads (innuendos) indicate that Lance Russell, a part-time state's attorney, will be an experienced, fair, hard-working, respectful, compassionate and impartial judge? It's up to you to decide on Nov. 7.
TERRENCE L. KULLBOM
JULIE R. KULLBOM
Rapid City
Better judgment
Judge A.P. Fuller would like to retain the seat on the Seventh Circuit Court to which he was appointed by Gov. Bill Janklow. Perhaps that is why he was such a strong supporter of Amendment A in the 2004 election, which would have given circuit court judges a lifetime appointment. That measure was wisely and soundly defeated by South Dakota voters by a 2-1 margin, proving that they had better judgment than the judge.
In December 2004, the South Dakota Supreme Court sided with a Pennington County rancher against Judge Fuller in a unanimous reversal. In that case, Judge Fuller forbade the defendant in a Hatfields and McCoys-type dispute from filing any complaint with any government agency before first paying a fee to do so and obtaining permission from the circuit court. This glaring violation of free speech was quickly overturned.
Judge Fuller's opponent, Lance Russell, makes important judicial decisions every day when considering which of the cases he receives should be prosecuted. His conviction rate demonstrates his effectiveness, and his management style has encouraged cooperation between government agencies for the safety of the community.
In South Dakota we do hold our judges accountable. Vote Lance Russell for circuit judge.
JOEL WEAVER
Rapid City
They lied
Abortion a "woman's choice!" Not necessarily! Many women are pressured by boyfriends, parents and husbands.
I was one of them! I was physically escorted to the clinic by my (then) husband and forced to have an abortion. Where was my freedom of choice? The state said it was legal, but it wasn't right.
At the clinic, they said it was a blob of tissue, not a baby. They lied. They said it would be a quick and safe procedure. They lied. It took four surgeries to repair the damage.
They said my life would get back to normal. They lied! They didn't tell me about the emotional and psychological problems I'd have to deal with, the misery cycles of anniversary syndromes or the nights longing to hold the child I should have had.
Anger builds inside of you because you violated one of the God-given instincts a woman has: to protect her young!
Stop legalized abortion in S.D. Because it was legal, there was an open door to push me through. Twenty-seven years of regret.
It's interesting that Referred Law 6 coincides with the Ten Commandment Law 6 - Thou shalt not kill. Vote Yes on Referred Law 6.
VIXIE MILLER
Rapid City
Stop the carnage
Apologies to those whose sensibilities have been offended by seeing the pictures of the butchery that goes on in the abortion mills in this country. At least you have made the connection between what you saw and the infant or premature baby you lost. But should you focus your attention on who showed you the graphic pictures or those who cause and permit the carnage in the first place?
It is sad that there are those among us who are so hard of heart that they choose not to make the connection between what is shown in these pictures and innocent human life. Just like the pharaoh in the time of Moses, or those Germans who saw what was going on in concentration camps and many in today's media who suppress the truth, they would prefer not to be bothered by the reality that is going on with their permission.
To stop the carnage, the first step is to follow your conscience and vote "Yes" on Referred Law 6 on Nov. 7.
WILLIAM HEYING
Spearfish
Real 'extremists'
You know it is election time when the words "hijacked" and "extremists" are thrown around. If you read these poorly worded commentaries by obviously ignorant people, you have to wonder if they have any clue how government works.
First of all, if an elected majority passes a bill that is signed into law by the governor, this is not a definition of "hijacking" a state or party.
Secondly, if the people of a state vote for legislators based on their views or convictions and these legislators pass bills based on those opinions - that is not the definition of being "extreme."
The real "extremists" are those who want things like unabated abortion-on-demand and approval of gay marriage/civil unions, etc.
If you don't like the current legislators, vote against them. But if they don't win, don't make ridiculous claims that the state is now too extreme or has been hijacked, because you are in the minority!
RICHARD FOLSLAND
Rapid City
Highest rating
When South Dakota circuit court judges take office, they pledge to uphold the laws and the Constitution of the United States, as well as the laws of South Dakota, and impartially perform all duties of the office. The question before us this fall is whether Pete Fuller has the experience, character, judicial temperament and ethics to render decisions fairly and impartially without regard for race, creed or color.
Pete Fuller's life-long commitment as both attorney and circuit court judge has been to dedicate himself to the highest ethical standards and qualifications.
Fuller has an AV rating, the highest rating given to attorneys by Martindale-Hubbell, while his opponent remains unrated.
While Pete is recognized as a pre-eminent member of the State Bar and has served on the Judicial Qualifications Commission, Board of Bar Examiners and Judicial Evaluations Committee, his opponent has not served on a single board or committee that remotely reflects a dedication to lifetime public service or the maturity to take on the responsibilities of being a circuit judge.
Judge Fuller has proven that he can be fair and impartial to all. For these reasons, I urge your support and vote for Judge Fuller.
ROLAND E. GROSSHANS
Rapid City
Solid citizen
Please consider a strong, thoughtful and respectful candidate worthy of your vote. Dinah Paris is such a person. She is a smart and solid citizen. She will work on state issues that improve the lives of our citizens.
Because she is a nurse, she has the experience needed to address health care issues. Her recommendation by the S.D. Education Association shows her understanding and concern for education issues.
The current legislators have had their chance to solve S.D. problems. It's time for new ideas.
I urge you to vote for Dinah Paris for state House of Representatives from District 31.
ESTHER LUX
Lead
Took away options
I am very troubled by the Yes for Life television commercial and the misinformation it represents. First of all, they say women have the option of using the morning-after pill. While this is true, they fail to mention it is not widely available in South Dakota and that a pharmacist can refuse to fill a prescription if he/she so chooses. Additionally, some women would have to drive many miles to get to a pharmacy. After they have been traumatized by an act such as rape, is that really what they are going to be thinking about?
They go on further to say that victims will have options in Referred Law 6. I would just like to know what those options are.
By banning all abortion with no exceptions for rape, incest or a mother's health, the South Dakota Legislature certainly took away options for a woman and her family in difficult times.
I am voting No on Referred Law 6 because I see through their TV ads and their message. After all, these are the same people who just a short time ago tried to make emergency contraception illegal!
TARA BUTLER
Rapid City
Sensible approach
The voters of District 34 have the opportunity to re-elect Rep. Ed McLaughlin. Ed has been a life-long supporter of public education. He serves on the House Education Committee and the State Aid Task Force. He has consistently worked on issues to improve education in South Dakota.
Ed has a sensible approach to solving problems. I have been impressed with his willingness to listen and to address difficult and controversial issues.
He has experience in business, education, public administration and would continue to serve us well in Pierre.
DAN DRYDEN
Rapid City
Personal experience
Looking at my sample ballot I see some fine judges to vote for, which I will do.
In the Seventh Circuit Position E, to me it seems like it is a Russian popularity contest for Janine Kern. From personal experience, my belief is she has, in conjunction with a close association with a lawyer, made her decision before court.
Perjury I feel is ignored, the petitioner suddenly becomes the defendant and found equally at fault in a divorce case. As a result, the petitioner must pay half of defendant's legal fees! Admitted in court, a local millionaire was paying defendant's legal fees.
I feel some judges and lawyers have no business in the legal profession. Judge Kern is one of them, in my mind. This is my opinion based on other cases I have heard of.
This is one example of why people are voting for Amendment E, myself among them. At the last survey, it was 3-1 for the amendment.
FRANCIS A. KELLEY
Rapid City
Letters welcome
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