Letters to the editor

Plays galore

We are lucky to live in a community that treats us to so much of the arts! During the two weeks ending July and beginning August, Helena boasts at least five different opportunities to enjoy live plays. Montana's two resident and professional Shakespearean companies provide four of these, making Helena one of the few communities in the world where you can be treated to such fantastic, classical entertainment!

On July 30 and 31 only, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks of Helena will be presenting one performance each of Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor" and George Bernard Shaw's, "Heartbreak House." This troupe has presented plays in Anchor Park (by the library) for 22 years at no charge. Shakespeare in the Parks raises funds throughout the year, so just arrive at the park before 6:30 p.m. with a blanket and a hat, and when the donation box comes around -- contribute what you can. Enjoy our new sound system designed to amplify the performance for easier listening.

Come downtown this summer for classical entertainment such as few communities can be proud of. We certainly do live in a unique place!

Rob Freistadt n Helena Coordinator/Sponsor

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks

501 First St.

Misguided vote

I'm writing regarding Representative Denny Rehberg's vote opposing a bill that would cut student loan interest rates. I am a 20-year old Montanan who attends the Evergreen State College.

Instead of voting to help Montanans attend college at an affordable and reasonable rate, Rehberg sided with the corporate interests that fund his campaigns and voted against a bill that will bring $48 million in student aid to Montana and will help over 20,000 Montanans like me afford college.

Once again, Rehberg has proven that his interests do not parallel the interests of the people he claims to represent. By voting against the largest student aid increase in 60 years, Rehberg has made it clear that his priorities are out of step with Montana and that he cares more about helping his corporate friends than about helping college-bound Montanans.

I believe Montana has a particular interest in supporting student loan rate cuts. If students' debt burden was lower, it would be easier for students like me to return home after graduation. I don't understand why Rehberg or anyone would oppose this. Rehberg needs to wake up and start caring about Montana's future.

Robert Funk

825 8th Ave.