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Heineman: NU should take back Ayers invite

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BY MELISSA LEE / Lincoln Journal Star

Friday, Oct 17, 2008 - 04:42:51 pm CDT

Gov. Dave Heineman on Friday issued a strong statement urging University of Nebraska leaders to cancel William Ayers’ planned visit to NU’s Lincoln campus next month.

“This is an embarrassment to the University of Nebraska and the state of Nebraska,” Heineman said. “Bill Ayers is a well-known radical who should never have been invited to the University of Nebraska.”

Ayers, a founder of a group that claimed responsibility for the bombings of several public buildings in protest of the Vietnam War, is scheduled to deliver a keynote address Nov. 15 during a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Education and Human Sciences.

Story Photo
Dave Heineman

Related Link(s):


10.16.08: NU president, regents call Ayers invite 'poor judgment'
Sound Off: Should UNL rescind the invitation for William Ayers to speak?

He is now a distinguished education professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago who has authored numerous scholarly articles and books.

The UNL college’s dean, Marjorie Kostelnik, has said a faculty committee selected Ayers last spring, before his ties to Sen. Barack Obama became a focus of the presidential campaign.

Ayers was chosen, Kostelnik said, for his expertise in areas like social justice and urban educational reform.

But news of his planned appearance has sparked significant public protest.

University offices have been flooded with angry phone calls, some from people threatening to withhold financial support from NU. Heineman, too, said his office has received a steady stream of calls and that citizens he’s talked to are “angry and outraged.”

That’s why he’s calling for NU President J.B. Milliken and Board of Regents Chairman Chuck Hassebrook of Lyons to step in and rescind UNL’s invitation to Ayers.

“That poor judgment needs to be corrected,” Heineman said.

Regents have said they don’t believe it’s their job to disinvite Ayers. But they, as well as Milliken, have called the decision to bring Ayers to campus “poor judgment.”

“In all honesty, if I were that college, I would disinvite him,” Hassebrook said Thursday. “In general I just don’t think it’s a good thing to go around blowing other people up.”

There were many other experts in the education field, Heineman said, who should have been invited over Ayers.

“The celebration will be in trouble unless they rescind this invitation,” he said.

Reach Melissa Lee at 473-2682 or mlee@journalstar.com.


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Knee-Jerk wrote on October 17, 2008 2:54 pm:
" An old washed up former bomber is becoming a rich man because of all of these knee-jerk responses. Your causing standing room only crowds, and a long term lecture circuit coming up.

Why don't you ignore this guy? "

 Mike in DC wrote on October 17, 2008 2:57 pm:
" Politics. Where people don't really want to lead, they just want to shut people up and take the pay check. "

 Barb wrote on October 17, 2008 2:58 pm:
" Yes, Mr. Ayres was wrong in what he did in his youth. And the fact that he has apparently had no remorse on certain levels is not something that I condone. But he has achieved more than trivial success in his chosen field. That is what he is speaking on. America represents freedom, and why on earth would we be afraid to hear him speak about education. Gov...stop trying to dictate and threaten. What are you going to do if they don't rescind their invitation? Arrest them. Let him speak. If folks go or don't go, that will be the appropriate barometer to guide future bookings. Tend to more important things in the state government. Take a pill. "

 Lisa wrote on October 17, 2008 2:59 pm:
" The comments I read yesterday and today make me feel like I live in a red state, and I'm not meaning Republican. "

 Don wrote on October 17, 2008 2:59 pm:
" Thank you, Governor. "

 ha ha wrote on October 17, 2008 3:01 pm:
" Who cares what Heineman thinks! "

 CS wrote on October 17, 2008 3:04 pm:
" Nice, now we have the governer waving his threat stick over a publicly funded University. If they cave to this it's an affront to anyone that can actually separate dogma and the activities of 40 years ago from a privately funded, privately attended lecture on education. How ironic that those protesting the loudest are those that could benefit the most from attending. "

 wow wrote on October 17, 2008 3:05 pm:
" wow! now the governor tells the ol unl what to do. the republicans are sick people. they have lost the election and they just can't stand it. i hope every repub in the usa can't sleep for years over obama leading us. it is obvious most repubs are under the covers racist. "

 wow..... wrote on October 17, 2008 3:05 pm:
" it is really amazing how easily Heineman can condemn someone but just can't bring himself politically to decide whether he is for or against the ballot initiative of affirmative action. Now that is leadership. "

 Mitch wrote on October 17, 2008 3:06 pm:
" You've gotta think, who's worse, a man who blew up a few buildings to protest the war, or the government who sent 65,000 men to their deaths in the war. Lighten up. The man is speaking on education, not a bomb building class. "

 Susan wrote on October 17, 2008 3:07 pm:
" Apparently the Republicans do not believe in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that guarantees freedom of speech. Aren't institutions of higher learning supposed to offer differing points of view, offer stimulating discourse on a variety of topics and teach people how to think? Apparently the Republicans only want people to think their way. "

 Tricky Dick wrote on October 17, 2008 3:08 pm:
" If I had kids in UNL, I'd pull them out and send them to a college that knows the difference between right and wrong. Ayers and his ilk should be in a prison cell, right next to Bush the deserter and Cheney the draft dodger. Three rotten peas from the same 1960's pod. "

 Mr. Goodsense wrote on October 17, 2008 3:10 pm:
" I see that now even Senator BEN NELSON has now jumped on the bandwagon and condemned the invitation of terrorist Bill Ayers.

Maybe BEN SHOULD LET HIS BOY, BARACK OBAMA, know of his dispproval of terrorist Ayers. Just a thought... "

 I knew it wrote on October 17, 2008 3:11 pm:
" I knew there was a reason I liked this governor and this just clinches it. Way to go. And good for all the people that spoke up about this. Maybe the man has changed, but like the article says there are plenty other interested and knowledgeable people that could have been invited instead. "

 Whos next wrote on October 17, 2008 3:20 pm:
" Bin Laden? I really would like to hear what HE has to say! Great job UNL! "

 Dano wrote on October 17, 2008 3:24 pm:
" Typical reaction. The only reason the guy is coming is so that UNL can be in the headlines some more. The only reason you people fear him, is because yo uare being force fed that he is a "terrorist". What do you really know? Have you done any research that doesn't come from SpinTV?

Why doesn't anyone look into how chummy John Mccain is with an Gordon Liddy? That guy was ready to do some very evil things just to keep Nixon and the Republicans in office. None of them were based on protesting a war, they were simply about corruption, greed, and power. That guy is far more notoroious in history than this guy ever will bea dn far closer to the candidate than this guys is to Obama.

Now the governor is using this "radical" as a way to get himself into the headlines as well. What do you fear from having him speak? What do you fear from others learning about this guy? How can one judge who a person is, without hearing them speak? this is no different than banning a book. Get over yourselves and your political agendas already. "

 Gerrr wrote on October 17, 2008 3:26 pm:
" What ever happen to freedum of speech in this country. Oh this is Nebraska, not allowed "

 Free Speaker wrote on October 17, 2008 3:27 pm:
" Whatever happened to freedom of speech. We may not agree with the speaker, or his past but we do have to agree with our constitution. This is not an example of good leadership for our state, for our government or for our children. Let the man speak. "

 Charlene wrote on October 17, 2008 3:29 pm:
" When Wolfowitz came to UNL there was also controversy. UNL is surprisingly progressive in presenting diverse perspectives. While many will not agree with what the speaker has done in the past, there might be a compelling reason why his voice was relevant and might remain a necessary element to develop critical thinking. The governor has little business in this matter and is placing politics over academic freedom. It would be wrong for any government official to stand in the way of freedom of speech. Intolerance by the governor is a sign of weakness and fear. "

 Ask wrote on October 17, 2008 3:31 pm:
" Ask Governor Dave what he was really up to during and after Vietman. I wonder how that could be classified? "

 Nic F wrote on October 17, 2008 3:33 pm:
" This is ridiculous and why is the government wasting my money worrying about something that the University is doing? Shouldn't the governor be doing something else...like maybe help Nebraska out a little with all the issues we have? No, he'd rather use his position for his own personal agenda. It's politicians like him that make me sick. Do your freaking job! Don't go after your personal agenda's on my dollar! Personally I don't care who UNL has speak at some sort of anniversary for a college. They can do whatever they want. If I'm interested in what the person has to say I'll go see it, if not I won't. I don't need the government telling an institute of higher learning who they can and cannot have come speak at an event. If UNL want's Kim Jong Ill to come speak at something, let them do it. It's their choice and this country has freedom of speech (or at least is supposed to...just don't tell the republicans, they apparently skipped the first amendment). "

 ajfly wrote on October 17, 2008 3:35 pm:
" The Gov should stay out of it...He is in politics not education..What a putz..... "

 Shane wrote on October 17, 2008 3:39 pm:
" If the offer to Mr. Ayres due to pressure from the Governor and others, where does it stop? This time it is someone who is a noted scholar with a horrible past but who was NOT controversial at the time he was selected. Who is to decide what is toooooooo controversial? It is amazing how little importance we put on the First Amendment when the person speaking is not expousing our philosophy. Can you say hypocrites!!! "

 Jim wrote on October 17, 2008 3:41 pm:
" I am embarrassed for my home state of Nebraska. Not because Bill Ayers may come to UNL, no not at all. I'm embarrassed by Gov. Heineman and all the outrage over the Ayers invitation. If Ayers wouldn't be in the public eye right now, this wouldn't even be a story! It is pure politics. And, it is time for Nebraska to come out of the dark ages and realize that hearing opinions and beliefs contrary to yours is and always has been a way to challenge the mind. If you don't want to see Ayers, don't go. Or go and protest his visit! It's America! At least last time I checked Nebraska is in America. But the governor's request to silence free speech is un-American. "

 Bo Vandy wrote on October 17, 2008 3:45 pm:
" "Maybe BEN SHOULD LET HIS BOY, BARACK OBAMA, know of his dispproval of terrorist Ayers. Just a thought... ""

Why would Nelson need to let Obama know his thoughts. Perhaps you missed the numerous times Obama condemned Ayers' actions in the 60's "

 Chris wrote on October 17, 2008 3:48 pm:
" It appears that the only people in the state in favor of Mr. Ayers' visit commented on this story and said as much. The other 99.9 percent of us oppose this home-grown terrorist setting foot on Nebraska soil. Why? Because he conspired to commit crimes against the US Government, which isn't just a bunch of nondescript concrete buildings, it's you and me, as well. We the people, remember? And the guy doesn't regret his actions, not one bit, and I don't care if it happened 40 years ago or earlier today.

And before you paint me as some neo-conservative nut job, just know that I'm an open-minded Republican that supports Barack Obama for president. This Ayers business isn't about modern politics; it's about not allowing an unrepentant traitor and terrorist to speak at a publicly-funded university. UNL should've known better. "

 SmokinJoe wrote on October 17, 2008 3:48 pm:
" As a Democrat, I'm appalled at the invitation. This isn't a political move - this is a morality call. While you can argue that he has changed in 40 years, his lack of remorsefulness is the source of the problem. "

 What great publicity wrote on October 17, 2008 3:49 pm:
" What great publicity for this guy's speaking career. I opposed the war in Viet Nam, but absolutely never condoned violence. I wouldn't mind hearing what he has to say, however. I might conclude he's a worthless jerk, a socialist, or a Marxist. I am very conservative,opposed to most liberal university teaching, but I value the First Amendment above all of my personal political opinions, and to cancel this trip is to say that we no longer have the Freedom of Speech. All this does it draw attention to him for naught because I can't see the university faculty backing down, or at least I hope they don't. I would have picked someone else for this event, without question, but that is no longer the issue. "

 Ej wrote on October 17, 2008 3:51 pm:
" Thank you govenor. "

 Re wow wrote on October 17, 2008 3:56 pm:
" It's people like you who really disgust me. It doesn't matter what color Obama happens to be, I would never vote for someone with the idealogies and views that he posseses. But according to people like you, if somebody doesn't vote for him they are obviously a racist, cause obviously that would be the only reason to not vote for him. Get real. You're the one whos looking for a race problem here. Frankly there's probably more people voting for him just because he's black (even though he's 50% white, and a near even split of arab and african for the other half) and not the other way around. But Obama's not the issue here, his buddy Ayers is. "

 tom issaquah wrote on October 17, 2008 3:56 pm:
" Who has ultimate authority at the University?. From the statement of the Board of Regents Chair it appears that they can do nothing. From the statement of the Chancellor he approves of this decision. Is the Chancellor the top administrative official or the President of the University, Milliken? Bad decision but can be remedied with a cancellation of the event before the media finds out and turns it into a circus in Lincoln and they will. It doesn't matter at this point whether this should be allowed to go on or not. The appearence of this individual will be a magnet for the National media and I don't think that is something the University wants to do to an otherwise great American city. "

 Speaker wrote on October 17, 2008 4:00 pm:
" What if he spoke and no one showed up? That would send a pretty clear message. Since according to fundrace.org, the University of Nebraska is 95% behind Obama, I don't think the room will be empty. I'd rather have another Rainmakers concert at the Student Union than hear any more about this urban terrorist speaking at my alma mater. No money for you, UNL! "

 CJD wrote on October 17, 2008 4:06 pm:
" Bill Ayers is a domestic terrorist. He stepped on the flag and said that he didn't regret setting bombs and felt that he didn't do enough as reported in the NYT on 9.11.2001. His views on social justice are not about the administration of law, but on redistribution of wealth and property. Finally, he is targeting our youth with a leftist educational doctrine so they will implement his extreme socialist agenda here in the years to come. As an alumnus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, I will cancel my membership in the Alumni Association if Bill Ayers speaks on campus. Disgraceful! "

 UNL 71 wrote on October 17, 2008 4:06 pm:
" Maybe Gov. Heineman would like to invite his old trade mission pal Fidel Castro to speak instead. The First Amendment is now officially dead in Nebraska. "

 mTm wrote on October 17, 2008 4:08 pm:
" Thank you again for listening to you voters. pleae teach this skill to other politicians. "

 tom issaquah wrote on October 17, 2008 4:14 pm:
" The Dean of the College stated that Ayers is going to be paid a "small Honorarium" that is being paid for by a private source. Judging from the comments left about this event yesterday and today it is going to cost the University many many thousands of dollars not to mention the negative national attention that may cause some students to decide against enrolling at the University. Not good a good business decision right now Chancellor!!! "

 HEY SUSAN wrote on October 17, 2008 4:14 pm:
" Apparently BEN NELSON is a republican?? Nebraska U-S Senator Ben Nelson shares the same view as Heineman. "I join many Nebraskans in disappointment that Bill Ayers has been invited to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. His past involvement in a violent protest group and incendiary comments are not consistent with the agenda of unity that we need in America today. I encourage the university to reconsider this decision." "

 Joe wrote on October 17, 2008 4:17 pm:
" What the hell? When you make a mistake; correct it. Uninvite Mr. Ayers. What could he possibly say that at least 100 other "educators" couldn't say? Sometimes it seems "our" university works overtime to tarnish its image and the State's. It took us 4 years to uninvite Steve Pedersen and B.C. Let's see if we can act a litle faster this time "

 to Barb wrote on October 17, 2008 4:18 pm:
" what has Ayres achieved.Or are you just repeating what someone else has stated? It looks to me like Ayres is being rewarded for beating the system. What a sad commentary on our society !! "

 Jeff wrote on October 17, 2008 4:23 pm:
" Recently I heard a description of something that reminds me of our Governor - he provides "lagship" not "leadership" and that is too bad. Obviously - this is just about politics as Ayers is now a distinguished professor. So, there's no such thing as a mistake or forgiveness, eh Dave? Way to go Gov - we will just keep right on lagging as long as you are in Office (waiting for leadership). "

 To Governor Heineman wrote on October 17, 2008 4:26 pm:
" Thank you. I have a great deal of respect for you for requesting the U of N to cancel Bill Ayer's speaking engagement. I couldn't agree with you more that it's an embarrassment to the State of Nebraska as well as the University of Nebraska. And as far as all the bloggers who think this it's okay to have a terrorist speak at our university, shame on you. You're an embarrassment to the State of Nebraska as well. "

 DTO Luv wrote on October 17, 2008 4:28 pm:
" Apparently the Governor doesn't believe in freedom of speech. And that's not even the issue here. He's speaking about education. Also, what would it matter what he's done in his past? He's already been through the legal system for what he's done and he's paid his dues so as far as the law is concerned he's on the same level as all of you. "

 Sean wrote on October 17, 2008 4:31 pm:
" This is political posturing at its worst. If there were truly a concern about his presentation it should have been raised long ago when plans were originally made. My guess is that Heineman didn't even know who this guy was until the RNC made it an issue in the Presidential race. "

 sgb wrote on October 17, 2008 4:35 pm:
" Thanks governor Heineman. I myself think that Mr. Ayers should not come here to U.N.L. "

 HVJ wrote on October 17, 2008 4:35 pm:
" The Gov. is right on the mark! Furthermore, if the UN-L College of Education's reputation academically takes a hit, so be it. The time is coming when higher education must be held accountable for its' mediocre performance in many areas. When was the last time you heard of an obscure academic program being dropped, or of technology being used to replace mass lecture situations in general education courses? There is a reason most professors outside the professional schools tend to be liberal; i.e., socialism fits their scheme best. In 2008, at this point in time, it does not appear that our higher educational system has served us all that well. "

 peb wrote on October 17, 2008 4:39 pm:
" Do all of you realize that Bill Ayers was appointed to the Annenberg Challenge Board of Directors?

Do you know who Walter Annenberg is? Mr. Annenberg donated $500 million to begin a project that became the largest public/private endeavor in U.S. history dedicated to improving public schools.

Mr Annenberg was very supportive of conservative Republican causes and a close friend of President Ronald Reagan.

If Mr. Ayers was such a threat to us, 40 years later, would someone such as Mr. Annenberg appoint him to be on a board that handled millions of dollars of his money?

In a letter to the editor in the Chicago Tribune, Ayers wrote, "I condemn all forms of terrorism — individual, group and official". He also condemned the September 11 terrorist attacks in that letter. "Today we are witnessing crimes against humanity on our own shores on an unthinkable scale, and I fear that we may soon see more innocent people in other parts of the world dying in response."

Nebraska's conservatives' extreme actions in this situation are VERY alarming. "

 Denny wrote on October 17, 2008 4:45 pm:
" The governor should mind his own business. Education and politics are at right angles to each other, one seeking to know, while the other seeks to oppress the minority. If anyone needs muzzled here it is Heineman. "

 Chris wrote on October 17, 2008 4:56 pm:
" I find the Ayers situation alarming on two levels: first, the University's Education Dept. thought is was acceptable to invite a domestic terrorist to campus. Second, a domestic terrorist, someone who unrepentently claims responsibility for bombing public buildings, is a distinghished professor of education and social justice? What exactly is he teaching college students? That it's acceptable to bomb public buildings and potentially injure innocent citizens because you disagree with public policy? That's a discomforting thought. "

 Cowboy George wrote on October 17, 2008 5:01 pm:
" DON'T DO IT! What a bunch of hypocrites. The Republicans only believe in the 1st amendment when it works well for them - yet they will defend the 2nd amendment at all costs.

Why did the governor even give an opinion on this subject? I expect to see him out there exercising his 1st amendment right by protesting; otherwise, he needs to keep his thoughts to himself. Same goes for all other public officials giving their opinion on this matter. "

 One Out In The Third wrote on October 17, 2008 5:09 pm:
" Wow! Governor H. finally takes a side on a controversial decision. "

 jimmy wrote on October 17, 2008 5:17 pm:
" Mitch--recheck your facts. It is closer to 58,000 (men and women). "

 Jobeth wrote on October 17, 2008 5:18 pm:
" Gee Gov. Dave...don't you think it's possible for someone to rehabilitate themselves? If not, why do we house inmates? "

 Boonie wrote on October 17, 2008 5:22 pm:
" Has anyone wondered why the University of Illinois at Chicago hired Ayers and awarded him tenure? Or why the City of Chicago recognized him as a Citizen of the Year in 1997? Do you think maybe it was because he has become a talented and accomplished professional educator who has moved way beyond his past as a 20-something anti-war radical? Do you think other universities who have invited him to speak are automatically pressured to cancel him because of outpourings of indignation from citizens and press? Or do you think-- just possibly-- that much of this hue and outcry is politicized posturing because McCain made an issue of an alleged Ayers-Obama association in the last debate? He apparently was invited to UNL last spring soley on the basis of his scholarly achievements and nothing else. To disinvite him under the present circumstances would be yielding to lynch-mob psychology. I hate to think how that will make the university and Nebraskans look to the rest of the country. Hopefully UNL will stick to its guns. "

 Heineman get a life wrote on October 17, 2008 5:29 pm:
" Our Governor didn't know about the Ayers invitation before because he had better things to worry about - - and he still does. Quit micromanaging something that doesn't affect quality of life for Nebraskans, and focus on things that do. "

 unl student wrote on October 17, 2008 5:33 pm:
" get to work Gov Heineman! stop campaigning! "

 BigMo wrote on October 17, 2008 5:40 pm:
" Bill Ayers wemt wau over the line as a young man, his passion for his beliefs took him too far. The Weather Underground, the Black Panthers, the American Indian Movement, etc. were all organizations that were born in rage. Some of those involved went on to simply fade into the backdrop of America, make money, and never do another thing besides enjoy the benefits of freedom they raged against. On the other hand, Bill Ayers has worked his entire adult life on behalf of improving educational opportunities for poor children in Chicago. Yet, because he is now a symbol to these Republican's of a wedge they can drive into America and beat Obama...they cry out against Ayers. If it wasn't for the election, nobody would have noted this invitation. Hell, what does this Governor care about someone working for poor Black kids in Chicago...or anywhere else for that matter. "

 Get a Clue wrote on October 17, 2008 5:54 pm:
" All the negative posters should take a few minutes to go familiarize themselves with Mr. Ayers, what he did, and what he has done since the 60/70s isntead of listening to the ficticious crap they hear on Fox "News". Congratulations to UNL for booking such a well-respected figure in his area of expertise. "

 Dismayed wrote on October 17, 2008 5:56 pm:
" This would-be murderer speaking at UNL speaks volumes about the arrogance and out-of-touch faculty at UNL. Send your kids to Phoenix U and get a degree a lot cheaper. "

 Eric wrote on October 17, 2008 6:08 pm:
" Im wishing Gov. Dave would quit talking. At least Bill Ayers might have something intelligent to say. "

 Amazing wrote on October 17, 2008 6:10 pm:
" First Amendment rights must not pretain to Nebraska. Are we so afraid to hear this man? This whole controversay is purely political, because Nebraska is as RED and a firetruck when it comes to pollitics. Nebraska is such a closed minded, out of touch and conservative state. No wonder our children leave this state in droves. The real world surrounds us and we put our head in the sand. I do not condone what Mr. Ayers did, but remember all the controversial things that happened during the protests of the Viet Nam war. Remember this is the state that even denied Michael Moore to speak here during the 2004 election. Wake up and be open minded - You might learn something.

To those bigots out there that use the term boy when referring to Barack Obama is way out of line. SHAME ON YOU! GROW UP! "

 mom wrote on October 17, 2008 6:32 pm:
" I am sick to death of the "holier than thou" Republican crap that goes on in this state. How dare you inflict your prejudices and your politics, Heineman, upon my kids who are at UNL to broaden their educational experiences. Have you looked up the term tolerance lately? There are people who can listen to others, evaluate what they have said, and form their own opinions. We are not all sheep like you would want us to be. Good grief, Ayers is professor at a college in Illinois. He is not a threat to us or our kids. Get off your political grandstand. What's next? Are there some books you want to ban from Love Library too? "

 seeclear wrote on October 17, 2008 6:56 pm:
" To: wow
I didn't realize the election was over. The Democrats haven't won anything. And excuse me, I am NOT a racists and you are an embarassment to Democrats for suggesting all 'repubs' (correct spelling, Republicans) are. "

 Seth wrote on October 17, 2008 7:29 pm:
" I think its disgusting that the journal star calls Ayers a "distinguished education professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago who has authored numerous scholarly articles and books" anyone who thinks this man is distinguished or scholarly needs a serious wake up call this man is nothing more than a washed up terrorist that truly belongs behind bars. Ayers is a disgrace to this country and doesn't deserve the liberties it provides! "

 pam wrote on October 17, 2008 7:59 pm:
" This stuff happened 40 years ago! I think the Republicans are the only ones who won't let it go! Wonder why... "

 CS wrote on October 17, 2008 9:05 pm:
" Im not sure what Mr. Ayers wanting headlines has to do with this, since he was invited months ago. Keep taking that quote of out context on 9-11, too, it makes you look that much smarter. "

 CS wrote on October 17, 2008 9:39 pm:
" Well, Seth, how many scholarly peer reviewed papers have you written, how many millions of dollars have you managed, what research have you done, and where are you tenured? LJS is stating facts about his academic record that are easily accessible by anyone with google.com and about 10 seconds. "

 kelly 33 wrote on October 17, 2008 10:09 pm:
" Once again Heineman is trying to be the big duck in the small puddle, pushing people around, when he doesn't have enough sense to stay out of what should be a legal, logical, desirable, public, free-speaking event.

He's simply a childish controller. He's proven this time and again. Let's remember his tantrums next time we vote, please? "

 Joe Smith wrote on October 17, 2008 10:11 pm:
" It is laughable for the faculty at UNL to think they have academic freedom--this proves they have about as much as scholars in the "Red States" of Russia and China. "

 JB wrote on October 18, 2008 3:53 pm:
" A no mind pond of the right wingers. Show us some brains for once. "

 Big Red Redneck wrote on October 18, 2008 8:51 pm:
" If all of the libs would simmer down and recover from their near-terminal case of diarrhea, they might wake up to the fact that no one's freedom of speech is beign denied. How about the usual liberal hacks (Unitarians, Quakers, Nebraskans for Peace, ad nauseam) bringing their poster-boy Ayers to Lincoln on their own dime? Now there's freedom of speech we can all agree on! Don't hold your breath, because it won't happen. When libs think of spending their own money, instead of someone else's, they get cold feet. "

 CS wrote on October 18, 2008 10:04 pm:
" They did, BRR-did you miss the part where it was PRIVATE FUNDS that paid for his talk here? We 'libs' already spent our own money, but that doesn't matter because the big bad governor and Mike Foley stepped in to remind us of our place in this state. "

 Husker Patriot wrote on October 18, 2008 11:12 pm:
" So CS, you spent your own money, or so you say. Look,it's not too late to find a cozy, comfortable warehouse where your boy Ayers could expound endlessly and enthrall all of you libs? Gee whiz, you could have all of the "free speech" your bleeding hearts desire? Now, isn't that something every left-wing looney tune will go gaga over? "

 CS wrote on October 19, 2008 1:23 am:
" Congratulations for missing the point completely. His talk was on Education-a subject sorely lacking in this state based, in part, on your letter. He is an expert in his field. The Governor of this state decided that he didn't like the speaker, partly based on sure on the public outcry and mostly based on the situations ability to get him 5 minutes. This isn't about free speech-it is not a free speech issue, as some have posted here, but an issue of academic freedom and the ability of a University to allow ideas from many disciplines, creeds, and philosophies.I have never advocated his visit, or lack of, as an affront to free speech and as a self proclaimed patriot im sure you've read the Constitution and are aware that this issue isn't about that. Or have you? Just checking. This isn't about left wing or right wing, but about the public approval over dumbing down an educational institution for adults, not impressionable young children. Indoctrinate them all you want when they are young-but once they go to college it's no longer your job to spoon feed them. If you did your job as a parent it wouldn't be necessary. "

 Liz wrote on October 23, 2008 8:26 am:
" The values and morals of a person speaking, lies implicitly in each word. Taking care in thought, before speaking, while speaking, or listening is simply a holistic approach and attitude. Viewing situations through an economical, political, social, and cultural lens is imperative. Those who practice a holistic approach to are more apt to make thoughtful and respectful decisions. The decisions may not be favored by all (such as UNL canceling Ayers), but the intricacy of contemplation in the decision is respectable. This is not the case; "alumni said they would withhold financial contributions to the university.” Due to political beliefs, opportunity for students to learn at an institution of higher education was eliminated. The students at UNL would benefit from hearing his ideas, lived experiences, and knowledge of education. Ayers may have a past; nevertheless, his present choice of language concerning education would be highly notable. Governor Dave Heineman, has yet to look through a holistic lens. Heineman was quoted saying, “This is an embarrassment to the University of Nebraska and the State of Nebraska…Bill Ayers is a well-known radical who should never have been invited to the University of Nebraska." Governor Heineman, you are an educator, whether you see yourself as an educator or not. I cannot thank you enough for teaching me, that "whatever words we utter should be chosen with care for people will hear them and be influenced by them for good or ill"(Budha). "

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