This is in regards to The State News opinion on the issue of lighting the state Capitol dome for Michigan one evening a year, in the colors of the nation's flag "Bad timing" (SN 11/14).

Any time is the right time to pay honor and homage to people who have earned the right to be respected in tribute for their endeavors to mankind - in good times and less than them.

I feel The State News missed the point of the noble and patriotic gesture.

I also feel The State News owes an apology to those who endorse the patriotic gesture, to its loyal readers, as well as to our esteemed MSU itself, which proudly endorsed the dome lighting for the state in one of The State News' past editorials.

If a fund of $250,000 can be raised to have John Engler's portrait painted and hung in the state Capitol, then surely half that amount can be raised to pay honor to Michigan.

I, and no doubt others, feel that the people of Michigan are more worthy of being honored than Engler, whose mean-spirited edicts were not so warmly embraced and who was a big part of Michigan's financial woes.

Had I thought it would be an excessive burden, I would not have put upon the people of Michigan such a task. As The State News said in its past endorsement of the dome lighting, "Why not?" Indeed, why not? It isn't going to hurt anyone. It isn't political, controversial or expensive to enact.

Those wishing to donate a small amount and be a part of the dome lighting for Michigan are asked to please send any amount they so desire. We hope the great dome can be lighted for Michigan as the first such noble dedication to a state's citizens in 2005.

Andrew Anthos
coordinator of Dedication of Michigan's Efforts, D.O.M.E.