October 20, 2004
Wednesday

I'm assuming this is one of at least several responses to Mr. Stan Hewitt's letter to the editor that was published October 18 [Ketchikan Daily News]. I've lived here over 40 years and learned who Mr. Hewitt is. I first knew him when he ran the best eating place in Ketchikan. I've known him to contribute his skills and resources to this community. I've regarded him to be what I call a "pillar" in this community. It's people like that for my reason for making this my home. I admire the candidness he used in demonstrating his racial prejudice by making reference to Gravina Island. He implicated many prominent citizens of this community. I consider anybody that lives anywhere a prominent citizen. The land was not "given" to "Natives". The people indigenous to this country are original owners of the land. He will probably say the western civilization bought this land. I say it was stolen. But that argument will go one as long as there is someone with desire to keep it going.

When he says they clear-cut every inch, who decided what trees were to be harvested? Who was in charge of marketing? Who ran the chain saws? Who ran the equipment? Who made the profit? I have maintained a subsistence way of life when I have access to what resource is left.

What does Greenpeace hurt? If they didn't advocate for cleaner air, water and responsible use of the land. Who would? So far, nobody has demonstrated an interest to do that. A safe environment and clean air are important to me. And every plant contributes to clean air. So where is the problem? Who built the cars and makes the whiskey? Speaking of which, I won't go into.

This is the case of the pot calling the kettle black. I found it interesting that two respected grocery stores were used in this slur. Sorry, I guess I missed the point, if there was one.

Respectfully,

Bill Thomas Sr.
Ketchikan, AK - USA

 

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