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Speaker was out of line

Published on Thursday, May 13, 2010 10:58 PM AKDT

To the editor:

Tuesday night I attended the Colony High School graduation ceremony in Wasilla. I was thrilled that Chuck Heath (father of Sarah Palin) would be the keynote speaker. Both my children had him as a substitute teacher and their days with him were insightful, educational and fun.

Chuck explained how he taught all his children to hunt, track and field dress game. Then, trying to be humorous, he said he was going to teach his daughter how to field dress a donkey this fall.

I was dismayed at the suggestion of evisceration of Democrats — a partisan statement that was supposed to be a nonpartisan night of celebration. Did Chuck hope that by giving a stump speech that mirrored his daughter Sarah’s views that it would increase support for her? What message was he trying to convey to the graduates?

The “speech,” reminiscent of a Christian revival, ended with Chuck demanding the “G-word” be integrated back into public schools and government. A celebration for the senior class turned into a political diatribe and was both disappointing and inappropriate.

Bev Nash

Wasilla

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135 comment(s)

Outdoor Camp wrote on Aug 1, 2010 10:12 AM:

" Brilliant stuff! Your article is really good, Im glad you took the time to share it.Thanks for sharing your opinion. "

Armyof1 wrote on Jun 3, 2010 5:37 AM:

" Bev if God and the pledge of allegiance were still in our public school system maybe we would have more patriotic, respectful young people. Lighten up Francis. "

Jean wrote on May 29, 2010 8:19 AM:

" Suspicious, what a ridiculous statement! "

hey suspicious wrote on May 29, 2010 8:17 AM:

" Don't forget the part about Sarah having laser-beam eyes and being under the control of CIA-funded space aliens. You got your tinfoil hat on so they can't read your mind, right? "

Suspicious wrote on May 28, 2010 9:23 AM:

" Hey valleygirl: by your grasp of reality, method of argumentation, and syntactical style, I suspect that you're initials are S.P., right? And you live on a lake with a tall fence? Don't you have ghost writers who should be doing this stuff for you? "

Au contraire to Littlebird wrote on May 27, 2010 7:20 PM:

" I'm an Independent, littlebird. Not exactly blinded by anything, but rather, very open to all sides.

Obviously, you cannot say the same thing. You assert a slant which certainly has nothing to do with independence.

When you use the term 'everyone', littlebird, of whom are you speaking exactly? After all, I certainly don't buy into your political stereotypes--but, then again--I'm Independent.

If even I am the only one who is not a member of your 'everyone' group (shudder the thought), then clearly, you only speak for yourself. "

D from Idaho wrote on May 27, 2010 6:53 PM:

" The "au contraire" blogger must be from some wierd alternate reality if he believes even half of the bizarre rants he's making public here. I actually feel embarrassed FOR him to be that ignorant! There's books written about the legacy of "victimization" used as a tool by liberals. It's no secret. Good grief! "

Littlebird wrote on May 27, 2010 4:33 PM:

" Au contraire;
Republicans use scare tactics. Democrats use hyper-sensitivity and yes, they over-use the hand to the forehead "Oh, my fragile feelings have been hurt!" ploy over and over again. Apparently everybody knows it but you. I'm assuming because, like most, you're a slave to your political slant instead of being objective. Everybody who isn't a glazed-eyed sheep knows these things. Since I see you're simple and prone to a single-plane debate using insults and sophomoric taunts, as mentioned by others, we clearly see where you stand. Thank you. "

Au contraire to valleygirl wrote on May 27, 2010 11:27 AM:

" What in the world are you talking about?

Are you quoting text? From which and where?

What's this about Democratic Wellstone's funeral--and how does that relate to Chuck Heath slamming Dems at a high school graduation? "

Au contraire Endeavor wrote on May 27, 2010 11:24 AM:

" If it's blathering you seek, look no further than your own posting, wherein you state: '90% of somebody crying that they were "offended" are liberals.'

90%, Endeavor? Really?

From where do you receive your statistics? (You just make them up, and state them as fact--doncha?)

I stand by my common sense stance--something you are clearly lacking. What you lack in terms of common sense you make up for in gross, outlandish exaggerations.

Talk about a teenager. "

valleygirl wrote on May 27, 2010 3:15 AM:

" to Oh Yeah,

Politicizing Sen. Paul Wellstone's funeral - oh that's right, those were Democrats. Speaks volumes! "

valleygirl wrote on May 27, 2010 3:12 AM:

" That "G-word" not all Valley teachers are left-wingnuts, here's a very small sample of what's being taught in Valley schools:

Social studies - Native-Americans were peaceful groups herding their horse (no joke!) till the Europeans came and ruined everything.
Health - Hug a tree, taste a leaf, become one with the tree.
Health - Students practice putting condoms on cucumbers.
Science - Shooting an animal that kills humans is revenge killing.

Yep, sounds middle of the road to me! "

Endeavor wrote on May 26, 2010 9:33 PM:

" I tried to engage in debate appropriate to my age. I can only assume that if you did the same, you are just beginning high school. Regarding your "common sense" blather; I guess I have to go what is on every news station (except right-catering FOX), print media, Hollywood and major campaign since Carter. It's not a matter of whether you are right or left-leaning; they both have hallmarks particular to them. And the fact is; Democrats are the masters of the "we're offended" ploy, like it or not. "

Au contraire to Endeavor wrote on May 26, 2010 4:48 PM:

" Allow me to show you where your logic fails you: the Democrats are largely in control in this country. The hand-wringers and complainers are those who (rightfully) are powerless to effect change or assert themselves with any significant or tangible success.

Common sense.

Understand? (Probably not, but at least I gave it a shot.) "

Endeavor wrote on May 26, 2010 1:38 PM:

" to au contraire
Not to say it doesn't happen at all, but you rarely see conservatives in the news wringing their hands, protesting and whining about their little feelings being hurt by something so slight. On the flip side, it's daily news regarding liberals. They embody and have perfected the art of "being offended". They wield and use it as leverage. Don't believe me? Read any newspaper, news magazine or watch TV. 90% of somebody crying that they were "offended" are liberals. That's just fact. And even when the conservatives try to use that tactic, they don't do it right. "

Au contraire watcher wrote on May 26, 2010 10:54 AM:

" If the situation had been reversed and some Democrat had been up there taking some light-hearted jabs at Republicans you would be moaning, whining, complaining and accusing the speaker of being a commie or a socialist trying to take away your constitutional rights.

You know it, we know it and that's why you lack credibility.

It happens everyday. "

watcher wrote on May 26, 2010 10:29 AM:

" Some of you people are about as much fun as an inflatable dartboard. Make about as much sense, too. If the situation had been reversed and some neo-hippy had been up there taking some light-hearted jabs at Republicans you would all be laughing and enjoying it. You know it, we know it and that's why you lack credibility. "

Inspired wrote on May 26, 2010 9:43 AM:

" Every time I loose a little steam in my plans to move, either by the great weather or a particularly good event I can count on Frontiersman readers to reenvigorate my intentions to move back to civilization. Thanks. "

BIgdaddy wrote on May 25, 2010 10:10 PM:

" I had mr heath not as a sub but as a teacher and i back him up 100% on all of it not because he is sarah's dad because I never even knew that. He is entitled to his opinion and good for him!!! "

headphone wrote on May 25, 2010 7:34 PM:

" As has been said a dozen times: Not the right venue. I think it's sad that he was asked to speak--not because of his view points or him--but because everyone knows that he is the father of one of the most polarizing individuals in America and he cannot be objective. What else would he talk about? "

Geesh wrote on May 24, 2010 9:01 AM:

" What's with the "Waaaaa" person? Whose crying? (They must be doing some heavy meds.) "

Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa wrote on May 23, 2010 6:07 PM:

" Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.
Have we all had a good little cry? "

Speaking of the constitution wrote on May 23, 2010 12:53 PM:

" ...since we're on the subject, the term 'Christianity' is also not in the US Constitution.

Our founding fathers and the framers of our Constitution knew exactly what they were doing--they did NOT validate Christianity as "the" religion in the US, but endeavored to create a sustained environment for religious freedom and choice.

Hallelujiah! And to hades anyone whoever tries to tell us differently. "

non-believer wrote on May 23, 2010 9:39 AM:

" Larry---If we reintroduce God to the schools, whose God we gonna have? The Christian God, Allah, Buddha? This country was founded by folks who wanted, almost more than anything, to have a society where people could believe in anything they wanted without interference from an always suspect government. That's why America has always attracted seekers of religious freedoms. Think Pilgrims. Why go back to the old un-American ways? "

baby girl wrote on May 23, 2010 7:54 AM:

" I am so very sick of chuck and his nutty family. His daughter sarah being # 1 nut job. Wish they would all just go far away. "

TO 2009grad wrote on May 22, 2010 11:31 PM:

" Show me dear enlightened one where :Separation of Church and State" is in the Constitution.

Keep looking...

Still looking...

Give up, you won't find it!

The establishment clause sates that the government cannot tell you how to worship. That's good in your case, since you like to keep your religion to weekends and holidays. Go back to school and learn your history. It's called reading. That gets taught in the elementary years! "

Wait. What wrote on May 22, 2010 10:03 PM:

" What is wrong with you people? Can't you stay on topic? For heaven's sake, start a new thread if you want to talk about a new topic. This one is about Chuckles the Clowns graduation speech (diatribe). "

Fred wrote on May 22, 2010 7:44 PM:

" Yes, Chuck Heath was way out of line. He brought partisan politics into a non-political event.

What does it matter if the majority applauded and laughed at his partisan comments: he should have saved it for a Republican or Tea Party Rally. "

To Palmer Farm wrote on May 22, 2010 12:04 PM:

" Just to make sure I understand what you're saying, are you really asserting that it is not incumbent upon a person who makes an accusation to back it up in some way? That, instead, it is incumbent upon those who disagree to prove that it isn't true? "

Palmer Farm wrote on May 22, 2010 8:06 AM:

" Seems to be a common trait in here; "please give me all the information that I'm too lazy or incapable of finding for myself". Nope. I must assume that if you can type, you can read. (Make for a funny debate, wouldn't it. One side states his point of view while the other side sits there doing nothing but asking for bibliographies.)

Take a minute and read. Don't assume. Read. "

So sad wrote on May 21, 2010 8:51 PM:

" So terribly sad to think that 'another sad story'--Power Wagon's hapless defender--lives in such an itty-bitty world wherein there're no Independents--just Dems and Repubs--and only Dems disagree with them.

And--Jack-in the Box? Ha! So that's how 'another sad story' (check out the acronym there!) occupies their time.

But sticking to reality here...

Obviously, it was a red letter day for the Dems/Indies who're having a gut-busting laugh over Rand-one-step-forward-fifty-steps-back-Paul.

So much for 'another sad story' staying abreast of news stories that will impact future elections. They must feel sadder by the day. "

TO Palmer Farm wrote on May 21, 2010 7:44 PM:

" Helllloooooo!? This is the third attempt to respond to Palmer Farm--all clean attempts, yet none of which have been published. (Could it be Palmer Farm has an editor friend at the Frontiersman?)

Palmer Farm fails to address to which blogger he/she was responding. (Had they bothered to read the letter or the entries here it would appear there are none to which they could be logically be responding.)

Care to say, Palmer Farm--or are you hiding under the skirts of a Frontiersman friend? (If so, so much for high journalistic standards.) "

akborn wrote on May 21, 2010 4:28 PM:

" I think Chuck should stick with what he knows and leave the political commentary to those who comprehend the civil discourse clause. In this country we practice religious freedom, and we maintain a separation of church and state. I don't really care what religion Chuck or his daughter practice, but their insistence of promoting their spiritual beliefs is frightening. Save it for church and may God bless and protect you from yourself. "

another sad story wrote on May 21, 2010 11:40 AM:

" Even more pathetic is one's inability to follow along, recognize the conversation and the points/responses therein and to make goofy assumptions pulled out of thin air, with no basis whatsoever (FOX news? Huh?) One could equally suggest you must be a devoted sheep of The New York Times, Huffington Post or the myriad of other propoganda smear posing as news. What odd and irrelevant direction are you going to go now? I've seen better and more thoughtful responses from a Jack-in-the-Box. "

rangermann262 wrote on May 21, 2010 6:07 AM:

" I will make this short."LARRY WOOD'S" comments are the only ones that may any sense in this whole debate.The rest of you folks just want to have a good food fight.Just like the rest of people in the U.S.right now. "

So sad wrote on May 21, 2010 5:19 AM:

" So sad that Power Wagon doesn't know the difference between a primary election, and a general. Or the difference between Faux News--and real news.

Hu-hum. "

To Power Wagon wrote on May 21, 2010 12:02 AM:

" Please just say what you mean. Smug, ironic questions are not what men do.

If I understand you, I think you're saying that the polls are predicting a conservative jump in the next election. Yes? Is this the basis of your idea that conservatism is on the rise?

Please try to respond in a logical, non-hateful manner. I like making you look silly, of course (I can't deny), but I'm also really wondering if you believe this stuff.

Note: I concede that repubs will take seats this midterm. "

be gone wrote on May 20, 2010 10:57 PM:

" Power Wagon and Palmer Farm be gone. You make little or no sense. After giving your opinion you often attempt to insult those who don't agree with you. Give us all a break. Read a book or take a walk. "

Power Wagon wrote on May 20, 2010 5:32 PM:

" Ah, again with the conservatives-being-crushed thing. Funny. Soooo I guess you haven't been paying attention the elections of the past few months, the daily news and polls stating the dim forecast for libs in November etc etc? Or do you just prefer to live in denial? "

Dear Power Wagon wrote on May 20, 2010 12:59 PM:

" Thank you for demonstrating my point. Your utter inability to construct a logical point while relying on denigration of me personally perfectly exemplifies the right-wing mindset.

Conservatism is being crushed under the weight of its own ignorant, illogical hate. "

Power Wagon wrote on May 20, 2010 9:01 AM:

" Calling the liberal bias in most of the country's public schools an "assertion" is absurd. How big that rock you live under must be or how deep the sand you've buried your head in! I bet you've never even bothered to look up the endorsements given by the majority of the nation's teachers unions. (Heck, I bet you weren't even aware they had unions if you're that ignorant.) "

to OMG wrote on May 20, 2010 8:56 AM:

" We can only assume that if you actually have a blog entitled that...it's an autobiography-themed page? "

Palmer Farm wrote on May 20, 2010 8:54 AM:

" You read all the posts yet clearly (sure), you somehow missed the one I was responding to. Gee (yawn)...how surprising. "

OMG wrote on May 20, 2010 7:21 AM:

" '...preaching about the virtues of vegetarianism'...'...accepting homosexuality'.
----------------------------
Good lord--what a scream! One who doesn't eat animals or doesn't hate people based on their sexuality is automatically...liberal?

Dang if those liberals aren't easy to peg!

This blogger's entry's going up on my bulletin board under the heading "Stupid People Saying Stupid Things". (Scary knowing they're raising 6 kids.)

What outrageous liberal thing will Alaska teachers do next? Teach kids not to belch in class? Hang roles of toilet paper in the restroom? Assign homework? Condemn plagiarism?

Blasted liberals!

(Gasp!) What's the world coming to? "

Please Note wrote on May 20, 2010 6:09 AM:

" The conservative response to my request for examples is typically illogical.

The assertion has been made of liberal bias in the public schools. "To Please Note" essentially posits that the assertion IS the proof, and it is my job to disprove it, or I'm lazy.

That's not the way logical discourse works. If you make a claim, you should be able to back it up, at least with examples. The "if you can't see it, then...(fill in the derogatory blank)" argument is illogical, unconvincing, and, yes, intellectually lazy. "

Cortez wrote on May 19, 2010 9:21 PM:

" Palmer Farm, you were not clear on that. This discussion was about the appropiateness of making a high school graduation speech a political comment. It is not appropriate. I'm fairly sure that President Obama, and even President Bush, would have left partisan politics out of a high school graduation speech. The Palin/Heath clan doesn't seem to have that little switch in their heads to know what is appropriate and what is not. "

TO Palmer Farm wrote on May 19, 2010 8:43 PM:

" Since you seem to have neglected to read the letter to the editor, and ignored 80-plus blog entries, I'll clue you in. The subject matter here has been Chuck Heath's inappropriate speech to Colony High School graduates, taking place in Wasilla, Alaska, USA, Planet: Earth.

What in the world does that have to do with Obama 'slamming Republicans' in speeches?

If you can't you keep up with what's going on here keep your inane, irrelevant remarks and disorganized thinking to yourself. "

TO watcher wrote on May 19, 2010 6:00 PM:

" Careful nutso, your insanity is showing. We do not have, nor have we ever had, a state church.

Yet another wacky lie from another crazy, irresponsible right-winger with a big stupid mouth.

If the federal treasury had a nickel for every right-wing lie, this country would be out of debt in perpetuity. "

Palmer Farm wrote on May 19, 2010 4:49 PM:

" Nice try, but I was talking about speeches in general...not speeches delivered specifically to high schoolers. (And you know, I think you already knew that. But keep scraping away...maybe you'll make a point eventually) "

Cortez wrote on May 19, 2010 4:14 PM:

" Oh Brother, you are absolutely right. We would have to go all the way back to the Bush administration to see a significant reduction in our constitutional rights. "

Oh brother wrote on May 19, 2010 3:24 PM:

" Enough of you whiners, moaners and fearmongers. Regardless of occassional shifts to state and federal laws that always change--regardless of who's the president--you have the same constitutional rights today in this country that you had when Obama took office. He hasn't taken away a single one--and you know it.

Just because you fear he will doesn't change the fact that he hasn't.

Pardon the rest of America if we don't want to jump on your nutty fear train.

Rational people base their expectations on a steady diet of reality and fact. Not fear. "

TO Palmer Farm wrote on May 19, 2010 2:33 PM:

" Name one speech and reference specific remarks that Obama has made to graduating high schoolers, wherein he slammed Republicans.

It appears you're the one who has a problem with facts. "

average citizen wrote on May 19, 2010 1:16 PM:

" Wrong venue Chuck. Apparently he chose to disregard the civic values most of us take for granted. More likely, he's so "committed" to his politics he isn't even aware that there are boundaries he is violating. By the way Chuck, which God are you going to bring back into the schools, my God, your God, somebody else's God? Silly me, why your God or course. Oh well, simple solutions for simple minds. "

to to please note wrote on May 19, 2010 11:38 AM:

" Kids hear lots in school,but you are grossly exagerating the bias you perceive in our school system. I've put two kids through the valley schools, and have never heard the things you say to be part of a plan, curriculum, process, or plot to promote "liberalism", My kids heard both sides, mostly from other students. You are so far right, you can't even see the middle from where you are. All you see or hear is what you don't like. I tend to hear a slight conservative bias in their class, so what? "

to Please Note wrote on May 19, 2010 10:31 AM:

" So you're another one of these lazy types that demands (not asks) others to do your thinking for you eh? Typical. Considering I'm putting 6 kids through public school and I, like most everybody else I know with kids, has dealt with teachers praising Obama, denouncing Republicans, preaching about the virtues of vegetarianism, the wonder of true socialism, accepting homosexuality and evolution etc etc it's hard to fathom that you scratch your head over this one. Either you don't have any kids OR....I'd like to know where yours go so I can transfer mine there too! "

watcher wrote on May 19, 2010 7:04 AM:

" We do have a state church. It's called liberalism. It's endorsed by the media, schools, Hollywood etc etc. And obviously we're expected to worship at the alter of liberalism everyday. (Look at the pressure we're under the results when we don't!) "

Whattabunchahypocrites wrote on May 19, 2010 5:05 AM:

" If a Democrat grad speaker had uttered the same kind of rhetoric Heath did Palin's supporters would be cryng 'Foul!'' left and right.

This defensiveness and support for Heath reflects the crazy thinking that goes hand-in-hand with all things Palin.

They play to and receive support from people of a lower intellect and socio-economic level, who lack rational processes or laudable critical thinking skills. And nobody mewls or whines faster or with more intensity than the Heath's/Palin's--and the rednecks who worship at their altar.

America's rightfully and permanently placed these people on the defensive.
Awwwwww... "

PJC wrote on May 19, 2010 4:27 AM:

" To make such comments, anywhere, merely shows the depth of ignorance the Palin family shares. I shudder to think this man was ever a teacher. "

Palmer Farm wrote on May 18, 2010 8:10 PM:

" Obama wouldn't use a speech opportunity to slam Republicans. Nope. I mean, except for the last several speeches he's given. Yeah, I mean...other than those times...um...uh.... (Shoot! "Facts" are tough!) "

Karen wrote on May 18, 2010 7:46 PM:

" What did people expect when they invited Heath? Try inviting a speaker with a little more intellectual depth next year. "

Patricia wrote on May 18, 2010 7:06 PM:

" Thanks so much to the Frontiersman for printing this letter. The cult of silence in Wasilla re the Palins has lasted much too long. "

Egrad wrote on May 18, 2010 5:25 PM:

" Partisan politics as practices by Palin relies on lies and repetition. Ha! They might get away with it with limited small groups of undereducated people, but young high school graduates? Think again. They are too smart, too hooked into news and information gathering to every be a part of the Palin cult worship. Or is it clan worship? Either way, the Palin's divisive, anti ecology, anti birth control message sounds like something out of a 50s black and white rerun to today's smart youth.

Palins = FAIL "

John Strong wrote on May 18, 2010 5:13 PM:

" I am all for the merging of church and state. Then we can get together and decide which denomination should be the official state church. Then we can decide which offenses against that church's doctrine we will allow the civil courts to enforce, and what the punishments will be. Then we can decide how we will control the content of prayers said by all denominations, with heavy emphasis on controlling the prayers of other religions and all denominations not the official state denomination. Then we can set up a government department responsible for maintaining and controlling of the doctrine. "

Please Note wrote on May 18, 2010 4:44 PM:

" Still not a single factual example of liberal bias in the classroom. "

Please explain wrote on May 18, 2010 4:42 PM:

" self-depreciating nuts?

huh? "

themom wrote on May 18, 2010 2:34 PM:

" Was Mr. Heath a retired teacher who returned to substitute teach or was he a "sub" as his profession. Not good enought for fulltime? "

Cortez wrote on May 18, 2010 1:15 PM:

" Forest gump - How can you compare Chuck Heath to the President of the United States? I think every president should address American students. Its your hatred for President Obama that makes you think you should shelter your children from a President stressing the importance of education. He did not denigrate his opponents, he did not tell them that socialism is the "way", he did not tell them that there is no god. He told them how important education is to the future of our country. Get over the blind hatred. "

cortez wrote on May 18, 2010 12:57 PM:

" No one was against Mr. Heath speaking, I was quite excited about it as he has been a favorite substitute of both my children going through Colony High. What we are against is his politizing what should have been a non political event. To compare him speaking to students to President Obama is a flawed comparison. Mr. Obama would not take that type of opportunity to slam his opponents. I doubt President Bush would have either. They have more respect for education than that. Mr Heath apparantly does not. "

to luvu wrote on May 18, 2010 12:56 PM:

" Lie about Obama? So you mean there's really no such thing as government-mandated healthcare, a record deficit and spending, a proven voting record regarding gun control or a lack of action on immigration? Sarah Palin made all those up? Wow. And she got the media in on it too! (In the future, may I recommend you start your posts with "Once upon a time" in order to put them in the proper perspective.) "

To Chris wrote on May 18, 2010 12:36 PM:

" Sorry, but you're wrong. The "In God We Trust" part was not added until around the Civil War. Our founders had nothing to do with it, and I believe would have taken quite and exception to it.

When you spout off, please attempt to be at least a little historically accurate. "

luvu wrote on May 18, 2010 12:11 PM:

" Mrs. Nash prepare to be bombarded with hate mail and threats. That is the reaction of $arah Paylin supporters over every little thing. She is so full of hate and she makes others full of hate think acting badly is alright. I pray for the countries sake she is finally outed and she has no stage to lie about President Obama every day. Isn't two years of this enough. John McCain's legacy will be what he has done to the country giving her a platform, country first, yea right. Thanks John "

Chris wrote on May 18, 2010 10:49 AM:

" "Most of these anti God progressive commenters had money in their pockets with "In God we trust" printed on it... have no idea what the founders of this great country were all about when it comes to God. "

It's obvious you don't. Most founding fathers were deists. "In God We Trust" was added to one coin a century after the founding of our nation, and not added to paper money until the 1950s.

You don't have to be "anti God" to want the separation of church and state. Looked at the middle east lately? "

snicker wrote on May 18, 2010 10:42 AM:

" You minority group all gnashing your teeth, rolling your eyes, spitting and pulling your hair out (because GASP!) Sarah Palin's dad was allowed to speak in public!) are a bunch of self-depreciating nuts. But at least you're good for a laugh. What a sad, miserable way to go through life. The culture of victimization that liberalism champions is a travesty. "

Ennealogic wrote on May 18, 2010 10:03 AM:

" Would the person who video'd the commencement address by the elder Chuck Heath put it up on YouTube so those who were not in attendance could also view it?

Thanks! "

Forrest Forrest Gump wrote on May 18, 2010 9:45 AM:

" If you want politics out of the schools, then keep Obama out also. Chuck talked to one class, Obama talked to the whole nation.

That's all I have to say about that. "

And yet wrote on May 18, 2010 8:15 AM:

" Most of these anti God progressive commenters had money in their pockets with "In God we trust" printed on it. And most have no idea what the founders of this great country were all about when it comes to God. Progressives won't be happy until they have destroyed every last principle this country was founded on. Maybe they could get Rev Wright to speak next time. Or Obama. "

Viv Jones wrote on May 18, 2010 5:46 AM:

" Funny, I can't recall Chuck Heath being invited to speak at any civilized function BEFORE his daughter ran for VP. But anyone who expected him not to be offensive is a fool. He has always been crass. "

Oh yeah wrote on May 17, 2010 9:11 PM:

" Politicizing a high school graduation ceremony tells us all--yet again--that when it comes to the Heath and Palin clan, classlessness rules. They corner the market when it comes to redneck behavior. Anyone suprised?

Fascinating that Heath thumbs his nose at the US Constitution and Bill of Rights--with his God-in-schools demands--which would lead us to abandon both. His flagrant, disrespectful disregard for our founding fathers' outstanding handiwork evokes an astounding effrontery against the faltering Tea Party movement's motives.

Quite interesting, no?

Perhaps next year's speaker will be more of a patriot--than Chuck Heath. Let's hope. "

Off Base Remark wrote on May 17, 2010 7:35 PM:

" A selfish action by someone in the limelight. Getting a little Punch Drunk on power and celebrity status. It's starting to show. We can excuse teenagers but you know better old man..
It was the Kids night ! ! ! ! Congrats and welcome to the rat race.. "

Cortez wrote on May 17, 2010 3:13 PM:

" While I found Mr. Heath's skinning joke humorous, I did feel that it was really inappropriate for the occasion. I'm sure we can all think of jokes we thought were funny, but not necessarily in all environments. His comments about God being put back in schools was also quite interesting, since it does violate the Constitution and Bill of Rights to do so. If God belongs in your life, thats your choice, but don't force your interpretation of him into mine. "

Wow wrote on May 17, 2010 2:09 PM:

" Ha I can't believe all the people who think the school system is liberal. It's called the truth students LEARN real things now in school, so they are educated which makes them liberal? I love the logic. So to be a good conservative you are suppose to not go to college, makes sense. And GOD should not be put back into school's silly Chuck. We should put the flying spaghetti monster in schools also then! "

Out Side The Box wrote on May 17, 2010 12:23 PM:

" First of all you have to ask what qualified Mr Heath to be a guest speaker? Was it education, properity, acheivement...what? Graduation speeches should be inclusive and discriminatory. Mr Heath isolated everyone in the auditorium who did not have the same religious or political beliefs as he. That is sad for Colony graduates. "

Proud 2010 CHS Mom wrote on May 17, 2010 12:05 PM:

" How sad it is so many people are taking a positive event in the CHS students lives and making it a political issue. If anyone had been open minded enough to actually listen to Mr. Heath's entire speech, they would have heard positive messages for students on preparing for their college and work lives. Did anyone listen to the message about interviewing skills? Did anyone listen to the message of family values? No, we are so concerned about our partisan politics we can't let the students have the wonderful memory they deserve. "

RedAlaskan wrote on May 17, 2010 11:51 AM:

" Mr. Heath was an embarassment.

The devisive words spoken by the Heaths and Palins is old and tacky.

I'm begining to think they like negative behavior. "

sharpie wrote on May 17, 2010 11:25 AM:

" Mike: Right on!

Always so funny how the same group that will intentionally drown out somebody speaking because they don't agree with thier political views, will encourage over-reaching government to limit your freedoms and believe in indoctrination over education will whip around and moan and cry about thier poor little feelings getting hurt over an obvious attempt at humor. Pathetic. "

JW wrote on May 17, 2010 10:32 AM:

" There is no reform coming from the Palin camp. Its just divide, antagonize, and corrode. It's destructive and pathetic. "

2009Grad wrote on May 17, 2010 9:40 AM:

" Regarding the god thing, I believe that it is time government listens to their own writings. Separation of church and state is very clear and needs to be considered. As far as I am concerned, atheists are a larger group than both African Americans and gays, yet the voices of those two smaller groups are listened to more often. School is a place to learn. Church is an option that you can do on the weekends. If you want to hear the "G word" or God in school go to a Christian school. "

Alaskan wrote on May 17, 2010 9:40 AM:

" Go away! Far far away! Hateful rhetoric is all they know and spew. Together we stand! All Americans! Try that message why don't you. "

to Mike wrote on May 17, 2010 7:56 AM:

" Me thinks you only like to listen to yourself and those who sound like you. Keep listening to FOX and all the problems of the world will be solved-in your own mind. Don't listen to anybody you don't like-it'll just make you upset or confused-probably both. "

Chuckie not a saint wrote on May 17, 2010 1:20 AM:

" Oh, yes, mr. chuckie, would like to make himself out to be a saint, riding on the skirt tails of his daughter, however I for one as a parent can testify, that dear Mr. Chukie, picked his pets. His speach means nothing to me or my child.........just political rhetoric..............riding on the coattails of his daughter. What a coward. "

Mike in Wasilla wrote on May 16, 2010 10:44 PM:

" Notice to liberals: We are no longer intimidated by your fake claims to being offended. "

grad wrote on May 16, 2010 10:36 PM:

" what the heck? the guy was a clown. he didn't have anything to say that was the least bit meaningful. he is just a guy named Chuck who likes to hear himself 'cluck'. some of the kids got a chuckle, some gave a moan but most didn't even listen. just fagetaboutem. move on. "

say what wrote on May 16, 2010 1:13 PM:

" I think the argument is silly, but...this "Alaska is a Republican or Democrat" state is juvenile. We have always been a mecca for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Our demographics lean largely right (Not making this up. It's just fact.) But you can't really say we're a "Republican" state because Alaska has always been a sort of paradox. By and large we prefer limited government, freedoms, firearms etc. (Conservative values) yet we also attract a fair share of those that are anti-establishment which are generally left-leaning. We're a right-leaning state with an odd liberal twist. Kind of cool. "

Amen sharpie wrote on May 16, 2010 10:35 AM:

" Well said on all occasions! "

Well done Mr. Heath wrote on May 16, 2010 10:32 AM:

" I am a 2010 CHS grad and I LOVED Mr. Heath's speech! I totally agree that God ought to not be so taboo anymore. You can say Muhammed in school and no one cares, but say God and you end up like Ms. Nash and having to put a capital G in quotes because it's so sensitive! Toughen UP!!! God is what this country was founded on, it's not a bad word Ms. Nash - you don't have to abbreviate it and put it in quotes. I'm actually a little embarrassed for you. Try real world. "

Oh Yes wrote on May 16, 2010 10:25 AM:

" I'm all for more God in schools but certainly not the false god Christians proclaim. Lets celebrate the true God and keep Jesus and the false god's out of school. "

Patriot wrote on May 16, 2010 10:09 AM:

" Way to go Chuck! I think your remark about field dressing a donkey is hilarious. Anyone with a brain should know it was a joke. I encourage your daughter to use it, A LOT, over the course of the next few months. It ranks right up there with your reloading comment, which was priceless. "

to an example wrote on May 16, 2010 10:09 AM:

" Amen! You have effectively described most valley residents in one sentence. Uneducated and against educating themselves. It's a terrible shame to waste one's mind and potential, but it's a personal choice. "

Dear Leave Alaska wrote on May 16, 2010 9:02 AM:

" Do your homework. Alaska was a Democratic state before you right-wing nutjobs moved in. Even with the recent dumbing down and corresponding surge to the right, we're still at 8-8 in dems/repubs in U.S. Senate and House, historically. I'm O.K. with you staying, but if you need to use the "we were here first" argument, you'd better get packing. "

to an example wrote on May 16, 2010 8:40 AM:

" And there you have it; liberals incapable of looking things up for themselves (and they don't want to anyway). Not enough room in 100 words to do your work for you and lay it all out. The info is out there. Obviously you can use a computer. Look it up. Oh, and the part about not using facts but instead sticking to name-calling? LOL! That's been a Democrat campaign hallmark since Mondale! You're going to have to try harder than that! "

An example wrote on May 15, 2010 10:28 PM:

" And there we have it. Conservative on the halfshell. No numbers, no citations, no studies, no references. Just bad guesses and name calling. I guess tea is the new kook aid. "

notanidiot wrote on May 15, 2010 10:27 PM:

" I don't know, would it have been inapporpriate for someone to say at a highschool graduation speech that they wanted t learn how to field dress a pitbull with lipstick? Just wonderin'.
Would it be OK for someone to say they wanted to be able to pray to Satan in the public school classroom?
There is a reason to keep God and Politics out of school We all have plenty of freedom to allow us to get that information and express opinions about in other institutions than public academic education. "

Dead Weight wrote on May 15, 2010 8:45 PM:

" My toast to freedom of speech.

What do you call 1,000,000 Dems at the bottom of the Pacific?

Give up?

A good start!!

Go Chuck Go!!!! "

Mo wrote on May 15, 2010 8:41 PM:

" That offended me... Is that all you libs can say these days? You can get offended by someone saying God, but as a Christian, I am not allowed to get offended or say God? What's wrong with this picture? Freedom of speech is a fundamental right as an American. It is not just reserved for lefty's. I applaud Chuck and would like to sit in on his field dressing lessons. God Bless you Chuck! "

to an example wrote on May 15, 2010 7:07 PM:

" Liberal states are bankrolling conservative states eh? You mean states like, oh I don't know, CALIFORNIA? Washington? Oregon? And hey, how about the top three states right now in terms of economy: South Dakota, Alaska and Texas? Are those "liberal" states? And finally; 3/4 of Alaska is OWNED by the Feds! And where they own the land, they pump money. But I guess if all you pay attention to are agenda-driven pencilnecks from Harvard (no bias there, right? LOL!) then you're going to be stuck with your glazed-eyed view of things. "

Colony Mom wrote on May 15, 2010 6:24 PM:

" Yadda Yadda Yadda....Chuck Heath gave a "coach" speech. He's always been out of the box, saying exactly what he thinks, that's why the kids chose him. It was their graduation not ours. I'm Independant and thought the donkey joke was cute and even though I think God in schools is unfair, I like Chuck and respect his opinion. The kids are smarter than us you guys, they know this was Chuck talking and they know his views don't necessarily represent their own. Lets respect our kids enough to let them filter speeches, after all most of them are 18 now! "

An example wrote on May 15, 2010 4:44 PM:

" Here's an example for you. A guy named Frankel at Harvard used data from the tax foundation ( at taxfoundation.org) to show that liberal states are subsidizing conservative states. We all know Alaska is heavily subsidized. The local schools teach math. This means some students might figure out the same thing Frankel did, and start losing respect for loud uninformed conservatives. Maybe Math is one of those liberal brainwashy things our local conservatives object to? "

say what wrote on May 15, 2010 3:42 PM:

" Judging by the reaction is light-hearted comments got, I'd say the overwhelming majority of people there were smart enough to either appreciate what he was saying or understood that it was humor. To wish he had been a starched shirt in order to placate you obvious and miniscule minority who put forth maximum effort to whine and cry is silly. Go watch a Michael Moore film while cuddling up with your Obama doll. You'll feel better. "

sharpie wrote on May 15, 2010 1:30 PM:

" Dems love free speech...as long as you agree with them. If not, they will do whatever it takes for you to shut up. They'll fight to keep military recruiters off of school campuses, and then turn around and warmly embrace far-left, anti-U.S. wackos to come speak. Tis why they don't have any credibility. "

Colony family wrote on May 15, 2010 1:06 PM:

" I like Chuck too but someone needs to tell him that this night was for the grads and their family. It was not a time to be self centered or push your beliefs because not everyone out there agrees. This was is a time to celebrate. Also, we started the ceremony out with the Pledge and there is a line that says "One Nation Under God". We Can say God in schools. If God is in your heart. He goes where you go. I don't need someone to do it for me in my class. "

Lisnup wrote on May 15, 2010 10:36 AM:

" Chuck DEMANDING the G-word? who the heck does Chuck think he is? Chuck should of started with his daughter and her morals. "

Civility would be refreshing wrote on May 15, 2010 10:27 AM:

" I agree with George--there is no room in these speeches for a lack of civility. Humor can be achieved without making political statements at graduations. Graduation speeches should be uplifting for everyone graduating--not just those who are conservative or liberal. As far as calling the education they've just gotten a liberal brain wash--that is laughable--the teachers AND administration in the Valley are VERY conservative--just take a look at the teacher voter registration--they are OVERWHELMINGLY Republican. "

Please Give an Example wrote on May 14, 2010 10:47 PM:

" I get tired of asking you guys for examples because you just scream in reply that I'm crazy if I can't see it, advancing the conversation not one whit while debasing the concept of democracy, but here goes again: please give examples of the liberal bias you see in the classroom. Are you just speaking of evolution? What do you mean? Please be specific so we can discuss real things, not imagined conspiracies or agendas. "

Last Shreds Gone wrote on May 14, 2010 10:44 PM:

" I've always tried to keep my respect for Chuck separate from my feelings about his daughter, but I guess I have to face that she IS, in fact, the product of that household. It will be hard to regain my lost respect for Chuck. "

hitthespot wrote on May 14, 2010 10:43 PM:

" How refreshing to hear so many just plain enjoying Chuck's words.to grads. "

Over Heath wrote on May 14, 2010 8:36 PM:

" If politics and the G-word are not to be talked about or taught in schools, then what is Mrs. Palin's daddy doing there?

You're supporting tasteless jokes. A student would be suspended for "joking" about "field dressing" another student.

Liberal arts education does not make someone a liberal, it earns them a BA.

An FYI, schools here are NOT liberal. In fact, the closet liberal teachers lose their jobs. If you want the G-word in class - home school or go to one of the great private schools. "

independent wrote on May 14, 2010 6:08 PM:

" When weighing the pros and cons of both sides, I'm sorry but it's by-and-large a liberal hallmark to use the "I'm offended" technique about everything they don't like. You can't joke, no matter how lightly, with them. In fact, Democrats have been extremely successfuly in thier use of 'victimization' in order to defuse open and honest debate. The sad thing is that now the public has picked up on it and run amok. I agree with others in here: lighten up! The "I'm offended" nonsense is old! "

akmom4 wrote on May 14, 2010 5:51 PM:

" Way to go Mr. Heath...yes your parenting skills must have been lacking in this area and we hope it is not too late to teach her how to field dress a donkey. "

teacher wrote on May 14, 2010 5:50 PM:

" Chuck was a teacher and he didn't teach about God, gun control, abortion or any other 'adult' topic in his fifth grade classroom. I have no idea why he now thinks it is fine to ask teachers to do this in their classrooms today. In addition, if I heard a teacher give my kids a 'lesson' in liberal or conservative doctrine I would visit the principal and have this type of talk stopped. If you think a teacher is brainwashing your kids, visit the school and question the teacher yourself. "

Leave Alaska wrote on May 14, 2010 5:02 PM:

" To all you transpanted liberals: go back to where you came from either that be from another state, a log, a commune, or a hippie convention. Mat-Su has deteriorated over the past decade and a half because of you. Alaska was a great state and then you came marching in. Do us all a favor and get out! "

grow up wrote on May 14, 2010 4:50 PM:

" You have got to be kidding, right? Just because he has an opinion you don't like then...waaaaaaaaaaaaa. This is what I define to my child as "Adults acting like spoiled children" "

The Herrins wrote on May 14, 2010 4:07 PM:

" What's all the whining about Mr. Heath's speech? It was great! It was positive, humourous, upbeat and down to earth.

Kids these days have the liberal message crammed down their throats from kindergarten through college and one speech has all your knickers in a twist?

I was there, I filmed it and all I heard was the audience cheer so loudly it was deafening. I did not hear one naysayer or boo in the bunch.

I think you are just upset with him doing it at graduation because he got in the last word! "

George wrote on May 14, 2010 4:04 PM:

" If a 'liberal' got up at a high school graduation and joked about abortion or made fun of guns, the howling would bust your eardrums. Just because 'good ol d Chuck' makes his politics funny doesn't mean it is OK at a public event, even if many agree with him. It is called 'civility' for a reason. "

Lighten up... wrote on May 14, 2010 2:16 PM:

" You people always have to be 'offended' by something. LIGHTEN UP!!! "

Larry Taylor - Big Lake wrote on May 14, 2010 1:26 PM:

" I have to side with Bev Nash on this one. Graduation is no place for a political speech, especially for making a gross comment like that one. "

watcher wrote on May 14, 2010 12:22 PM:

" LOL... who wrote the "I agree" post? Ms. Nash? "

Puuullleeezzee wrote on May 14, 2010 11:51 AM:

" Give it a rest people. Thta was friggin' funny. Go Chuck! You bunch liberal fools. Half the porblems we have come from liberal views that are taught in the classroom! "

I agree wrote on May 14, 2010 11:16 AM:

" Like you Ms. Nash, I was thrilled to learn that Chuck Heath would speak at the Colony graduation. He was a beloved substitute teacher for both my children and a man that I've come to respect and admire. But I too found his remarks about field dressing a donkey and his references to Hannity and God inappropriate. While I'm no fan of his daughter, I expected better from him. "

sharpie wrote on May 14, 2010 10:26 AM:

" I lean conservative.Somebody makes a light-hearted poke at a conservative and I laugh. I don't throw my hand up to my forehead and gasp over how much it offended my or hurt my feelings. I got friends that are liberals that are the same way. But then you have people like this Nash person that must have a difficult time going through life, trying so dang hard to be emotionally injured all the time. Sad. (Get over yourself!) "

Meadow Lakes Madman wrote on May 14, 2010 8:30 AM:

" I can see where it would be upsetting for the graduates, after all they just finished the liberal brain wash called the public school system. Deep breath Mrs. Nash, your lil babies won't have to wait long to rejoin the commune, just send them to college and all will be left and well again. "

Power Wagon wrote on May 14, 2010 8:16 AM:

" Either you're honestly not bright enough to catch on to the fact that it was humor and had nothing to do with literally "eviscerating a Democrat" or, like most libs, you make a hard and sincere effort to try and be offended as often as possible. Like most others, I'm sick and tired of feeling like I'm walking on glass around people like you. Calm down, get a grip and re-join reality. I've heard similar statements from liberals regarding Republicans and duh...if its a light-hearted jab or joke WHO CARES?! "

Dear Bev wrote on May 14, 2010 7:26 AM:

" Please lighten up. We were at that ceremony and Mr. Heath was respectful, humorous, and did nothing to denigrate democrats. Obama has made far worse inferences than Mr. Heath without you writing to the Editor of your local paper all upset. "

CHS Parent wrote on May 14, 2010 6:41 AM:

" I also had a CHS graduate Tuesday night. We also were so excited to see and hear Chuck (the Valley's favorite sub) speak. We also were disappointed. However, I don't think the graduates really cared. The best speakers of the night were the kids themselves, and nothing could beat the "dance". Great job class of 2010! "

Larry Wood wrote on May 14, 2010 6:15 AM:

" Well, I disagree with the donkey skinning. Sarah is no conservative. Remember her budgets?
As to the "G" word, it is liberally used by our forefathers, Mr. Nash, and ensconsed in the Supreme Court of the U.S., much to the chagrin of the liberal judges, I am certain.
Maybe, if there was a bit more morality, the girls would not overexposed, and the boys would understand that responsibility and marriage are the norm, not the exception.
That girls should be respected, and not used. Of course, that goes both ways.
Yeah, a bit more God is in order. "

DANNY wrote on May 14, 2010 6:15 AM:

" Miss Nash,
I hope you are equally offended when liberals inject their opinions and prejudices into speeches. Just as President Obama did this last week at a college graduation ceremony.

Eviscerate:
1.to remove the entrails from; disembowel: to eviscerate a chicken.
2.to deprive of vital or essential parts: The censors eviscerated the book to make it inoffensive to the leaders of the party.

Just because most people use the first definition of a word, that does not make it the only definition. "

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