Backstrom simply expressed his opinion

Let me get this straight. Our country, the United States of America, is a free country. We can and do express our “opinions.” But to some, we are not allowed to do so because it goes against what their opinions and beliefs are.

In the case of the article “Would Jesus take I-5 or a helicopter?” (Jan. 10) by Walter Backstrom, it was his opinion. But here comes a member of the Christian Faith Center, and also a board member, one calling his article shameful, and the other comparing Casey Treat to Jesus.

Am I getting it wrong that Mr. Backstrom is not allowed to express his opinion, like the two members of CFC are? Also, not once have I read where Casey Treat has answered some of his critics about his teachings and/or his church. It always seems that members of his church really don’t believe there are many of us who do not cherish their Casey Treat and his teachings. But to have, how many columns, addressing Mr. Backstrom’s opinion is dictatorial, at best. For those who think Casey Treat is right up there with Our Lord, Jesus Christ — now that is blasphemy.

One of the members also inserted that the Treats have been married for 30 years, and wonders how long Mr. Backstrom has been married. Does that really matter how long Mr. Backstrom has been married? Does my 51 years of marriage to the same man impress you?

As for renting a helicopter, I really think it costs a lot more than a taxi ride from Federal Way to Mill Creek, or the other way around. As for Walter Backstrom grandstanding, hey, maybe you should look in the mirror once in a while and stop patting yourself on the back because you belong to the CFC.

The people at CFC do not know Walter Backstrom, but to slap him in the face for his opinion is shameful.

Pat Gee

Federal Way

Helicopters and Casey Treat

Last week, I read the column by Walter Backstrom on the subject of a helicopter for the Christian Faith Center. This week, I read the two very long letters to the editor by Danny Altizer and Debbie Willis defending their pastor, Casey Treat. This was an interesting exchange. It is an example for why I like reading the editorial page of The Mirror.

I do want to make a comment. Both writers mentioned that in the past year the church has used a helicopter only once. They said, too, that the church rents a helicopter. They don’t own one. Well, give me a break. Do you suppose the church is putting in a helicopter pad and will use it only once a year? And how long do you think it will take until the church realizes that owning a helicopter is cheaper than renting one?

Leo J. Thoennes

Federal Way