Review mean-spirited
Re: “Setting a flashy precedent — Cultural district at UT Dallas is already off track with new satellite Crow Museum,” by Mark Lamster, Sunday Arts & Life column.
This is a response to the mean-spirited review of the new O’Donnell Athenaeum/Crow Museum building at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Lamster begins by lamenting the refusal of the UT Dallas administrators to heed the “groundswell of support” for saving the old “Art Barn” (which he describes as an ugly, temporary building) in order to preserve its “unpretentious charm.” As two people who are involved with UT Dallas, serving on an advisory committee, we were not aware of this supposed support. The foresight and prescience of the school administration to move forward is evident in this stunning new home for the arts. It is a significant addition to culture in North Texas.
We feel that Rick Brettell, whom Lamster portrays as one who would feel his vision was ignored or misdirected, would instead be very proud of this new structure, located conveniently for visitors at the entrance to the university. He would endorse the tone it sets as an all-encompassing visual and performing arts venue. It will be the community gathering place Brettell had hoped for.
With its innovative design and execution, this Athenaeum complex elevates UT Dallas’ status as a modern university with a bold new vision, looking to the future. A young university, UT Dallas will forge its own identity, perhaps becoming the “Harvard of the South.”
Rather than being what Lamster labels “a lost opportunity,” it is a dream realized, setting a precedent in concept and design. It nurtures a cultural community, integrates the arts and invites all guests to share in its space. It is the culmination of an eclectic vision brought to fruition by those who believe in a place dedicated to the “creativity which connects the thinkers and the makers.”
Perhaps we should read a Lamster review of the Guggenheim at Balboa “starchitecture” for better insight into his concept of flashy.
Dr. Maroba Zoeller and Jerry Comer, Richardson
Obituary appreciated
Re: “Robert Bernstein: Father championed gay rights,” Wednesday Metro & Business obituary.
I am so happy that The Dallas Morning News printed such a poignant and moving story on the life of Robert Bernstein. As a champion of human rights, this man was an example of pure love for family and community.
Being in what is referred to as “the buckle of the Bible Belt” and with the influences of so many megachurches, this uplifting story was quite a surprise. As a proud and out gay man who has seen and lived the persecution of my LGBTQ+ community, it is refreshing to know that there are so many allies to our struggle and are with us in support.
With the current social environment in conservative Texas, and certain elected politicians trying everything possible to diminish the LGBTQ+ community’s worth, the world needs more Robert Bernsteins.
Clark Mitchell, Northwest Dallas
Voters always have a say
Re: “Why is abortion not up for vote? State does not allow any form of voter-led measures on the ballot,” Tuesday news story.
I read with interest this story about abortion not being up for a vote in Texas. It states that “voters in 10 states ... will decide whether to enshrine some abortion rights in their state constitutions.” But “[w]ill Texas ...be given the same opportunity? Not Likely.”
That is not entirely accurate. Every two years, every Texas voter has the opportunity to elect one of 150 state legislators and every two or four years, (depending on a lottery,) one of 31 senators. We also pick a governor every four years.
While it is true Texas does not allow for ballot referendums (and I suspect many city of Dallas officials wish propositions S, T and U were not being put directly to the voters), we do have a say in what becomes law.
So, whether you are pro-choice or pro-life, the next time you go to the polls, before you make your selection, remember you have both a choice and a voice.
Saul Friedman, Coppell
Voting for future generations
With hurricanes Helene and Milton just barely in the rearview mirror and communities still struggling to obtain basic necessities in the aftermath, it’s a reminder that climate change is a crisis that’s only getting worse. I’ve always cared about protecting the Earth for future generations, but after becoming a grandparent, it really hit home. Future generations deserve a livable planet. We must get serious now about stopping climate change.
In this election, climate change is one of many critical issues at stake. I’m an independent voter and a gun owner who grew up in a conservative family. And it’s clear to me that as someone who deeply cares about freedom for our children, I have to vote for Democrats up and down the ballot in this year’s election.
It’s not just about turning the tide on climate change, it’s also about ensuring women are free to make their own decisions about their bodies and their health care. It’s about getting money out of politics and putting regular people — not MAGA politicians and judges funded by billionaires — in the driver’s seat of our government. For me, the choice is clear: protecting freedom and a sustainable future depend on stopping MAGA.
Andrea Christgau, Keller
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