Letters to the editor

Picture not needed

I am troubled by the front-page picture of the 17-year-old boy who accidentally started the fire.

Granted, it was a horrendous fire, and he did a very stupid thing, but he is a minor and I don't think he should be publicly humiliated in this way.

High-school kids are frequently guilty of poor judgment, and even those who do malicious vandalism usually aren't pictured on the front page in prison garb. I have a feeling that this will haunt him for the rest of his life -- and he hasn't even had his day in court yet.

Whatever happened to the standard that used to be followed, when even the names of minors were withheld. I think you were wrong to print this picture.

Mary Jo Olson

312 Holter

Capitol the best site

Concerning the article by Tom O'Connell about the museum site:

He is right on that this treasure should be on the campus grounds. If it gets too far away from the Capitol, the beautiful Capitol would be the loser. This building, in its remodeled state, is a must see for visitors, just as much as the museum. It is gorgeous.

I have been afraid that the museum would be "stuffed" into the Great Northern, which would be a total disaster.

B. J. Buda

1 Mueller Court

It's county's decision

The Montana Heritage Commission would like to clarify information about the Law and Justice Center proposed for Virginia City.

I have read several letters referring readers to us for comments and requesting a change in the plans for the Justice Center. Please know, this project is under the sole jurisdiction of the Madison County Commission.

Public comments and concerns about their proposal need to go to the Madison County Commission, P.O. Box 278, Virginia City, MT 59755.

The MHC manages the state historic properties in Virginia City and Nevada City. We understand that many residents are concerned about potential changes to the town. However, the decision on the county's proposal will be determined by the voters of Madison County. I greatly appreciate everyone's interest in our historic sites.

Paul Reichert, executive director

Montana Heritage Commission

101 Reeder's Alley