Our view: Able to breathe again, credit those who averted tragedy

So much space in the newspaper, and on newspaper opinion pages, seems devoted to complaining, to pointing out shortcomings and to negativity. But moments of breathtaking reassurance can catch the eye, too. Those, “yes, that’s the way” stories: they demand their due, as well. And our accolades.

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In response: Water-rich Minnesota one of the worst places for a sulfide mine

In a column this month, the News Tribune’s Sam Cook pondered the proposed PolyMet copper mine north of Hoyt Lakes and what might be left behind for our grandchildren. He mentioned the possibility of “streams devoid of fish, rivers and lakes devoid of wild rice, (and) wells full of undrinkable water” in, “Trust at heart of copper mine debate,” as the column was headlined.

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Reader's view: Walker has forgotten the wisdom of Abraham Lincoln

Last year’s Wisconsin uprising against Gov. Scott Walker’s harmful policies inspired all fair-minded people.

Reader's view: Walker good for Wisconsin and deserves our support

Gov. Scott Walker is the best thing that has happened to Wisconsin in years.

Reader's view: Voters need to protect the tradition of marriage

The two questions my wife and I didn’t have to ask when we were married were “How?” and “Why?” Both these questions were answered long ago because of tradition and institution.

Reader's view: Cravaack wants to replace Medicare with vouchers

My mail carrier just delivered the latest propaganda piece from U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack. It was cloaked as a questionnaire, I suspect so it could be printed and mailed at taxpayer expense.

Mondays with Mitch: Nursing mother is just what the hype doctor ordered

When I first saw the new Time magazine cover of a nearly 4-year-old boy nursing on his mother’s exposed breast, I must admit it made me nostalgic: For a time when they wrapped magazines in brown paper.

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Local view: We must be willing to confront mental illness

We’re in the middle of May, and you know what that means. OK, yes, fishing, with last weekend’s opener, and also the long grip of winter finally fading into spring. I enjoy these things as much as anyone, but they’re not my purpose for writing. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, and that brings a passion to me that is just as strong as anything spring has to offer.

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Reader's view: Special-education layoffs cost Duluth a valuable asset

My husband is a special-education teacher in a Duluth charter school. He was not invited back for the next semester. I see in the News Tribune that Duluth public schools are laying off special-education teachers (“Duluth School Board begins laying off teachers,” May 16).

Reader's view: Prayers are with former Councilor Meg Bye

I retired from the city of Duluth in 1985 and worked for the City Council. I was interested to read the article about former Councilor Meg Bye.

Reader's view: Lack of local fishing opener coverage a disappointment

I have never been so disappointed in my local newspaper as I was the Sunday of the Minnesota fishing opener weekend.

Reader's view: God’s gifts are more important than money

I’m a disabled, self-employed artist. That’s a hard life. I’m just trying to make a living like everyone.

An alum’s view: Small school created close community

The closing of Morgan Park school will end an era in Morgan Park and in the city of Duluth. People who aren’t aware there was a Morgan Park High School and who weren’t here at the time the high school closed in 1982 have no idea of the impact this had on a community that was very involved in its school.

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Celebrate Morgan Park school

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An alum’s view: Students were one happy family

The closing of Morgan Park school saddens the hearts of countless Wildcats who received their education and enjoyed school days in a small setting. In high school, the sophomores, juniors and seniors were one big happy family. Like in “Cheers,” everybody knew your name. Morgan Park was kindergarten through 12th grade, so many were fortunate to receive their education of 13 years there.

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