Over the last year the price of gas has gone up and down plus or minus 20 or 30 cents at the drop of a hat, thanks to factors totally out of our control.
We put up with it, as we must. What I don't get is the upheaval from many of my fellow Minnesotans in opposing a trifle 5-cent increase per gallon to fix, once and for all, our crumbling roads and bridges. Which would we rather have? A nickel increase per gallon (which happens at the drop of a dime, or, the free-fall feeling of going down to our doom from an unrepaired bridge? Can you say, "No brainer"?
MICHAEL BEFUS, BLAINE
Help out the muddle-headed on Hiawatha Avenue This is my plea for better signage on Hiawatha Avenue. I've been driving this road daily for the past six months and have seen countless confused drivers who, I'd guess, are trying to find their way to the airport.
Since there's just one small sign around 54th Street, it's not uncommon to see drivers weaving between lanes as they try to decide which will be the correct one. Other times I've watched drivers simply stop in the middle of the street, I guess to think about it for a while.
This bone-headed behavior is beyond the scope of my simple plea but I certainly hope something is in the works to help out these confused drivers, some of whom are probably visitors. How about a big overhead sign pointing out which lane takes folks to the airport and the Mendota Bridge? Maybe we can scavenge a wee bit of money from the state's 150th birthday party I've been reading about. It would be easily justified in the improved traffic flow and public safety, not to mention a happier final impression for those people leaving our fair city.
KATHERINE BROWN, MINNEAPOLIS
Ellison is on the right track I fully support U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison in his efforts to establish a Department of Peace ("Trip to Norway inspires Ellison to seek a Peace Department," Jan. 15). Please keep up the good work, Congressman, because I can't believe that anyone could, in their right mind, oppose this wonderful idea.
JO BRAY, MINNEAPOLIS
Mr. Santana, meet Mr. Laurinaitis Congratulations to James Laurinaitis for his decision to stay in school and complete his collegiate athletic experience (Sports, Jan. 15). He represents everything that is right about college football: a loyalty to his school, commitment to his teammates and a love for the game. I'm confident that college football fans across the country will cheer especially hard for the Wayzata graduate next year during his senior season at Ohio State because of this decision.
Laurinaitis' remark that "there are some things that money can't buy" makes me wish Johan Santana felt the same way about playing for the Minnesota Twins and could budget $13 million this year and an additional $80 million over the next four years to cover his bills. Just imagine the overwhelming fan support Santana would receive if he elected to stay and lead the Twins into the new stadium and a World Series Championship. He would be remembered as a great leader who remained loyal to the team that provided him an opportunity, and committed to the fans who have supported him during his ascent into what he is today -- the best pitcher in the major leagues.
Way to go, James! You are not only the best but also the most admired college football player in the country!
DAVID PLANTAN, WAYZATA
Eden Prairie's wise decisions As a nurse I feel compelled to respond to the controversy of the decisions made by the Eden Prairie High School regarding underage drinking and the Facebook pages.
I see the broken hearts of parents caring for their teenagers or young adults in the hospital. These parents have to face the fact their children's lives are changed forever because of one bad decision in life. Some may never walk again or lead a normal life.
As parents, teachers, and community members, we need to protect our children and guide them as best we can into adulthood. This is no task to be taken lightly and we pray that we have the necessary skills to do so. I commend the administration of Eden Prairie High School for taking the appropriate and just action. By doing so, they have saved some teens from the devastating outcomes of bad decisions.
RITA IVERSON, EAGAN
