I would hate to know i was so cold hearted as the mayor has been. He doesn't know the half of what the homeless have been threw and done without. I am sure that all the homeless aren't drug users or boozing it up. They are trying and he want to be mean on top of all their hardship.
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AlaskanPrince said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 6:24 PM
Exactly..... I am tired of seeing homeless people on ther street begging for money, money to go buy beer and drugs, . Some of them look fit to work, there is plenty of work here in our state. But they are just plain to lazy to get a job, especially if people are going to keep handing the money. Heck I work and got two jobs, Your right Mr. Mayor, make them work and get them off the streets and so so called campsites. Put a program together that will assist them in finding a job, so they can get back on their feet.
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IOUSA said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 6:40 PM
channel 11 pathetic liberals
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K said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:03 PM
Right on, mayor!!!
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Kevin said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:37 PM
Dan! Dan! He's our Man!
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pinkSugar said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:43 PM
WOW you could tell She did not like his answers. Well, he was being honest. I had to come to a realization last yr when a family member was on a self destructive path, You can only save people so many times, They have to want to help themselves too. These homeless people aren't PETS, we can't keep them. They live how they decide they want to live. You can't save everyone. Where are these homeless people's FAMILIES???
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Barbara said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:45 PM
To the Mayor I say, when you have served your country and seen the horrific crimes that put some of them on the streets because they need medical help, psychiatric help, then you can say, "get a job" It's not that easy for the Nativs who come in from the Village life. Perhaps you Mr. Mayor have never lived in the villages. It's a different world out there. I lived there and the substance abuse, the sexual abuse, the mental abuse from the thieving people who pass through their villages and make them feel undereducated. In truth Mr. Mayor these are a lot of the homeless on the streets, alcoholics, drug addicts. Perhaps you should move in the direction of rehabilitation before believing these individuals can actually function in a capitalistic world. We need to rehabilitate before assuming they could function. This is the direction you should be going as a Mayor rather than judging them as lazy people. Most are truly living in fear of life itself, which is why they're homeless.
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Barbara said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:52 PM
I am dissapointed that the Mayor think these homeless people are functional people. Would he hire them? I doubt it. Most are from abusive lives or military horrors. Has he ever talked with them? I have and though some take advantage of the system there are many who try to hold a job but are not qualified or skilled to do so. The simplest thing like turning on a copier is impossible for some. I have worked in the villages and I can tell you, some brains just do not function like others. It doesn't mean they're dumb it simply means there isn't a job that can pay them for their common sense survival abilities. Perhaps you Mr. Mayor needs to restructure Alaska cities to accommodate these people so they can work! Rather than take away from education open your heart and classrooms that simply pay for these people to be retrained to function. And while you're at it build a REHABILITATION Program that WORKS! Alcohol and drugs is killing Alaska! Do something!
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Jem-Hadar said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:04 PM
In my work, we have been trying to hire some one for 8 months. 8 MONTHS. We have had several come in, that myself and my employer have seen begging on the street corners. Ok gotta give it to them for coming in and asking, but when they were told how much they would earn per hour, they actually told us that they make MORE then that on state aid. Even had one of them tell me that he earns well over $500.00 a DAY on the street corner. Called vehicles 4 wheeled ATM's.
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Shawn Klemmer jr. said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:05 PM
Some people have disabilities mayor, and mental issues mayor. Kinda cold hearted there mayor. So you will only talk to someone who cleans up and goes to your office and ask to see the mayor. Well now we know what kinda mayor we got.....But, if you can work. GET A JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Kevin said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:07 PM
He was speaking to that one guy. The one that decided to make a statement. He was together enough to make a public protest, so he could probably make a go at keeping a job.
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Kay said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:39 PM
You don't do people any favor by keeping them down and dependent. That's one thing so wrong with our country right now. Half of us work, and the other half expects us to do all the work for them and to pay all the taxes. First conservative and common sense thing I have heard Mayor Sullivan say!
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eaglecarver said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:18 PM
Why should they get a job, most of the pan handelers make more per month than I do, news story couple years back stated that the panhandelers who used to bum money on the corner of the Glen HWY & Bagraw made enough each summer to go live in Hawaii all winter. If they are smart enough to do that they are smart enough to get a job (manual labor, don't need a collage degree for that.)
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Rick said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:22 PM
WOW , Dan Sullivan failed on many levels. Like I dont know Mr mayor are you aware that your kingdom goes to the knik bridge and up eklutna road ? I've never seen him in Eagle River or Chugiak. and his comment about being a "regular guy" regular people don't have a silver spoon in their mouth and cash in on BS illegal insurance policies when their parents die. Guy is like every other politician silver spoon in mouth , handing out projects and money to their parents friends , and their kids. Thanks for being all that you are Mr Mayor .
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Raven said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:24 PM
Has anyone ever filled out a job application w/o an address or phone number? What about going on an interview in dirty clothes w/o a shower and a shave? Try it ..see how easy it is to get a job. Never mind the fact if you do not have a resume or know how to interview.Or bus money to get you to the job site. Or a place to sleep or shower , or clean clothes even if you are lucky to find a job..It takes some resources to assist people to become employable.
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Celia Harrison said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:28 PM
Alaska is going to have even more homeless people, we are behind the lower 48 and will be catching up. There is almost no low income housing in Anchorage, the waiting list is years at this point. I am on disability and want to live in Anchorage, I can't find a place to live there. I was homeless in Anchorage and went all over trying to find a place to live to no avail and that was two years ago, it is much worse now. Mayor Sullivan is clueless, there are people who can't work or people who can't get hired. I am on disability and have gone to the DVR office in Kenai, there was no assistance only a haughty woman who was put off that I had the audacity to show up. She told me they would not help me unless I was planning to always stay in Alaska. How is a guy who is living in a tent supposed to get cleaned up and dressed up? Mayor Sullivan did you take personal responsibility when you hired your girlfriend as a party planner? BTW, my disability is due to incompetence of AK to regulate.
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tundratim said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:38 PM
Homeless arent pets so lets discard them Wow! Do we really live in a Society where animals are more important than Humans. The arrogance is appalling. The mayors actions remind me of a man last century with a funny mustach Only Adolph wasnt so funny. Dont wait until the next elections lets recall
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Elizabeth said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:54 PM
I agree with many comments here about Mayor Dan. He contradicts his own words so how can he be trusted? He says he is a regular guy on one side, but on the other has NO clue about the issue. The only way his statement could be true is if he was born rich and always looked down on people rather than up because of what they have done. I fully agree that the people leaching off the system or pan hanlding need to be taken down. But what about the rest of Alaska?? The more I see people like Mayor Dan, the more I want to run for office to put some common sense back into government! To wotk for the people and serve them via actions, not empty words. Where do we get government spending under control and stop the self approved pay hikes?
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Lee said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:56 PM
Sure seems like we have an awful lot of "disabled" people in this state. Everywhere you go there are 300 and 400 lb. people with handicapped stickers hanging from their car mirrors. Their "disability" is being overweight and lazy and not doing anything about it. They can sure afford food and cigarettes, and alcohol and drugs, then dump their trash out on the streets, for someone else to clean up. We have a nation of lazy slobs holding their hands out instead of willing to take a job that is "beneath" them. I started as a dishwasher and a ditch digger, then a carpenter and on to more profitable skills, saving money, all the way. You have to "start". One cannot stand still in life. Stand still with your hand out and you will surely die a terrible, lonely death. "Get a job", ANY job is a great place to start. It builds character.
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Eustace Kakolantern said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:11 PM
The mayor only spoke the truth.His heart ain't bleeding purple cool-aid for the lazy.
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savatagethorns said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:12 PM
Mayor Sullivan, you are part owner of Mcginley's Pub, why don't you give him a job. How did this clown of a mayor get elected? And people trust you as a mayor after your sky is falling with eliminatiing libraries,and all the other cuts, only for there to be a "miracle surplus"... If anyone recalls mayor sullivans tv ads during the mayoral election he said Eric Croft was essentially lying about the sales tax,etc... Well its sure funny Eric Croft sure was on target. I am tired of the homeless problem, but if previous mayoral administrations and the current mayoral hadn't of jerked around , like with the GANGS problem, perhaps things would be better off. Oh yeah, how about giving this guy a job as a cop since weve had a serial rapist and a fake cop illegal alien . Gee mayor how about it?? Someone start a recall on this joke of a mayor. That way we get rid of someone who uses dan coffey to do his dirty work with the sales tax and title 21.
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savatagethorns said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:24 PM
Someone made a comment on the news media being liberals?? How does that person who said that know they are liberal??? Maybe they were offended that our mayor is such a smart mouth more concerned with the knik bridge and getting sales tax going. Cronyism is alive and well in anchorage with mayor sullivan. I hate the bums and indigents just as much as anyone else, but having a mayor make a smart-a** remark like that just makes him look like a spoiled punk.
Your father sucked as mayor of anchorage, and you suck as mayor. And i totally agree with the person who mentioned the life insurance policy that his father got. And does anyone really believe mayor dan "get a job" sullivan wasn't a beneficiary of that life insurance policy. Way to show compassion with that comment MAYOR SCROOGE... or should i say MAYOR SCR*WED?? How about the city not letting a constuction company who the owners son is a rapist doing road repairs downtown? this city is going 2 crap under mayor hitler.
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Houston said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:52 PM
Funny how a lot of folks take cheap shots at homeless people. It is true that there are people out there that abuse the system, but if you stop and think about it, probably 95% of Alaskans do to a degree. I see people having tons of kids just to get more Permanent Funds, and perfectly healthy homeowners getting all kinds of social services for themselves and so called disabled family members. Keep in mind a lot of these homeless people don't have a job because they are not capable of holding down a job.
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nanook1957 said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:52 PM
Dan was right on. I work hard to pay my bills. When my property tax goes to people who may or may not want to work. I care! "O" Begich" has a lot of redistribution of wealth money to spend and you should talk to him.
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Dan Sullivan has no soul said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 11:28 PM
Maybe in Pakistan after you drive away all economic development and outsource police and fire.
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Thumper said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 11:30 PM
Maybe he can run for mayor. He sure can't be any worse for the city of Anchorage
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Travis said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:17 AM
AMEN! If you are smart enough to protest at city hall, you are probably smart enough to man the counter at McDonalds. Never been a fan of Dan Sullivan, but I agree 100% with him in this instance. Time for people to get off their lazy a$$ and find a job, and stop expecting the rest of us to pay you and your children's way, and support you all from the cradle to the grave.
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T said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:27 AM
They are products of their environment.
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Jimiq said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 1:19 AM
Mayor, YOU have a job. How about DOING it?
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rightous said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 2:37 AM
Half of these homeless don't have the money, transportation, they need medical care like physical check-up getting off the streets, they have to eat like anybody to function, education on living skills, they need help and knowledge to do what's next with counseling. They need to get cleaned up before telling them to "get a job." Speak utilizing educaitonal values.
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Shaun said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 3:22 AM
Get a job sounds a lot like "Let them eat cake". I have been homeless twice before, and i will tell you its not easy to get back to being a productive citizen. I work at a package liquor/convenience store and i see more people coming in already drunk trying to buy more with credit cards and nice clothing. What really upsets me is waiting at the food stamp office and seeing women come in for appointments with Coach, and Dooney and Burke purses and I phones. If they really needed help buying food they shouldnt be carrying 500 dollar purses.
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Poster said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:19 AM
Fact is that most homeless people are receiving disability for conditions such as alcoholism or drug addiction. In addition to medical, food stamps, and free treatment, they receive cash from SSDI. The majority of these choose to prioritize their booze and drugs over shelter and other necessities. Very few homeless are out there with no money or care, and some have more resources for care than people working and trying to take care of themselves. While I wouldn't have used the verbiage the mayor did, the sentiment is understandable. I got tired of the "I have nothing" argument coming from people who had more coming to them from Disability than I had coming to me from my job serving them.
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ion486 said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:51 AM
whatever homeless people need,it is not to be enabled.their family might help them.perfect strangers might also if they were helping themselves.
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Fed Up said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 6:40 AM
Once again the media has selected the wrong poster child for an issue. Mr. John Martin III, convicted in 2005 of Sexual Abuse of a Minor is the 1st Degree, is not the face of homelessness in Anchorage. He is not incapacitated by substance abuse or mental health issues. He is an intelligent, articulate individual who has committed a barrier crime, and now refuses to work to overcome his past and be a contributing member of society. He is not representative of those living with substance abuse and mental health problems, or those families struggeling to make ends meet. The Mayor called this one correctly:Clean up and get a job. Too many people are trying to make this person (ho does not want services or casee management) the poster child for homelessness in Anchorage. Wrong poster child for a serious social issue.
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Kevin said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 7:10 AM
How about hiring him a party planner, but unlike the last one there are some "things" he might not be willing to do.
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Cindy B said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 8:06 AM
While a little cold sounding, I don't really hate him for what he said. Sure it's hard to get a job with no address or dirty clothes, etc. But most of these people are already getting a good amount of assistance and can get a free cell phone for $1/mo with the lifeline service. Some people just like living the way they do more than 'working for the man' or doing anything other than what they feel like. It's an epidemic. I'm not for abolishing assistance at all, people sometimes need that. But it's supposed to be for emergencies and to help you get back on your feet, not support you for the rest of your life. For the 20% of homeless who really are trying hard I would do anything to help them. For the other 80%...yeah, damn right get a job!
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Done said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 9:41 AM
Comment moderation here is atrocious. There was no reason to not post my comment, it broke no rules and wasn't near as surly as some others. Never coming back to this website or this channel. I won't accept censorship. Cya
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Anna said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:03 AM
We have the best Mayor in the Union! This country gives enough handouts, and it also has enough opportunities for ALL to create the lifes they desire.
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Chinh Nguyen said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:08 AM
Life is not as simple as Sullivan thinks it is. I bet that he would not hire a homeless person who is a drug addict or an alcoholic to cut his grass or to shovel snow on his driveway or to work as a street cleaner for the city.He would not hire a cocaine user as a baby sitter....
To fight the homeless problem, the state, the city and community, religious leaders must address the root causes. Help people get off drugs and alcohol, build a community college and teach young people technical skills so they can find better jobs. There are plenty of good paying jobs in Alaska that can not be filled with local human resources and are being farmed out to workers from the local 48, who give back almost nothing to Alaska because we don't have state employment tax.
It's easy to talk the talk. I challenge all Alaskan politicians and community leaders to walk the walk and make Alaska a better place for all Alaskas.
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Amazed said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:00 PM
All of you guys suck. Go for a hike or something.
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ccketch said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:03 PM
it is sad that so many people are so quick to judge others based on bad information, no information, stereotypes, mistaken assumptions, etc. how many of you have ever taken the time to ask a homeless person how they got that way? why do you assume you know what got them there in the first place. everybody who judges has within them the potential to be exactly the same kind of person they are looking down on. you really can't say you would have done different unless you went through the same circumstances and proven yourself. same goes the other way. i don't know what judgemental people went through to become so high and mighty. i can't say i wouldn't be just like them if i had lived a similar life. being judgemental could be a disease, possibly a genetic defect, the same as people prone to addictions. so both sides should try to understand one another.
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your wrong Anna said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:06 PM
Off with the "Union"
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ccketch said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:09 PM
one more thing. to the guy who said it's a fact that most homeless receive disability for alcohol and drug addiction. LOL!!!! who told you that?? you should have researched that one before posting it. but thx for the chuckle.
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Anonymous said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:11 PM
How about a one way ticket to California.Then at least they wont have to worry about the cold and it would be cheaper.
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Travis said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:16 PM
Second time a comment of mine that was perfectly within the guidelines, has not been posted. Liberal censorship at its finest.
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MAJIKIMAJE said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 1:31 PM
A year ago, I left Barrow Alaska. Me and my 3 sons flew to Anchorage and checked into a homeless shelter; We were homeless and lived with hundreds of homeless people for 3 months.
We did not need to do this. We have plenty of money. We wanted to learn. What it is like to go through this. We met a lot of nice people and a lot of not so nice people.
We had a very profound effect on a lot of people that changed their lives in a positive manner.
How can you possibly comment on someone else's life until you have walked in their shoes.
I exposed my three sons to this for one reason - to show them how important it is.. NOT TO JUDGE OTHERS.
GET A JOB - those are the words of a mindless idiot that has 'never walked or learned" A huge brick wall is in front of every homeless person. It is virtually impossible to get past.
We know first hand how utterly horrible this type of lifestyle can be on a person. The stess is overwhelming.
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AnchScanner said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 2:14 PM
MAJIKIMAJE, 1st article, if you stayed in a homeless shelter for 3 months with two children, and didnt need too- what about the homeless person sleeping out in the cold because there was no room at the shelter? Glad you didnt need to live the life of a heroin addict or someone that committed suicide!
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Mike J. said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 3:00 PM
This particular protestor is a documented sex offender and thief. He has publicly stated that he does nothing but panhandle and mooch off of others, full intent to remain homeless and no intent to try and help himself. This is the second so-called protest that he has done, but no real positive agenda except to get in the way. Notice that no other homeless individuals made any effort to buddy up/team up with him? What we did see was a few average citizens shaking his hand for a 'feel good' moment. So why should the Mayor meet with him, and why should anybody take him serious?
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Ross said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 4:07 PM
Well said, Mr. Mayor.
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FYI said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:28 PM
offer him a city job helping the homeless get a home, put his money where his mouth is
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AkAntics said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:59 PM
Follow the money People and you will find that Dan Sullivan is dumping it into road construction projects left and right because its easier to hide and cheat the system there.
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Sullivan rocks said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 8:46 PM
Finally, a politician who says what most of us think! I love this guy. Even more fun to watch the liberals freak out over this. Pass the popcorn.
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MajikImaje said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 9:37 PM
AnchScanner: I stayed @ the shelter with my 3 sons. You obviously can't read well. We did not take anyone's bed as you put it. We stayed there in the summer time and there was plenty of room for everyone with lots of room to spare.
What ever happened to Character? What ever happened to Compassion? IN the three months we were there, We gave away over 3,000 dollars of our own money to help people!! And you have the nerve to say .. "we took ???
Call beans Cafe - Call Brother Francis Shelter and ask about us. They said: we have never met people such as you. Nobody has given to these people as you we have. We volunteered for major chores for many hours every day, just to help...!! Go get a job ? NO! Go get a conscience!!
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Really Sully? said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:10 PM
"Get a job?" Is that the best you can come up with? With your education and in your position of leadership. Honestly, you have no better long term solution to the homeless problem than to tell the guy "Get a job?"
I wish everyone of them would "get a job" but it ain't going to happen and you know it. Maybe you should think about it a little harder and come up with a slightly more intelligent response.
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foodserver said on Saturday, Jul 9 at 11:23 AM
THANK YOU MikeJ and FedUp. if we're going to let these guys out of jail, "Let Them Pick Up Trash Or Clean Bathrooms". A Big Old Pile of Shift Work...overnight shifts, and not at hospitals, to minimize the risk of re-offenses.
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Phil said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:04 AM
Sullivan is an idiot. His best solution to a homeless person with mental and other problems is get a job. Who is going to hire This type of person? No One. With Unemployment Running around 9% Businesses Definitely aren't going to be hiring homeless people like this. You are aristocratic, stuck up, arrogant, fool. Instead of trying to find ways to help these people the best you can come up with is get a job. Unbelievable! Why don't You have one of your people Go undercover as a homeless person with a mental and other problems for a few weeks. Then have that person apply for jobs And see how far he gets. I bet you not one place that He applies to Would hire him. Most who tosses application in the trash immediately.
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Phil said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:06 AM
Sorry about the mistakes in my comment but the speech recognition software I'm using is still learning.
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mikey372002 said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:42 AM
Dan , I bet your nothing like your father, I never met your father so i cant say nothing about him, As for your personal self, sounds like a self serving person in office, your kinds of comments will get you nowhere, well unemployed at least, time for a new mayor, fresh ideas, Not the same old crap from old mayors.
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WHAT A LAUGH!! said on Wednesday, Sep 7 at 11:28 AM
Homelessness is caused by their enviroment? Must be a dumb GORE thinker.Like Global Warming! These people have CHOICES, like everyone else.Most are too LAZY to try and get their lives strightened out! Some are drunks or drug users, BY CHOICE,so don't blame society! I hope they NEVER build low income housing in Anchorage, it will turn into a ghetto just like the ones in the lower 48. People that get "FREE" anything have nopride in keeping the property up, clean or respectable. If these homeless want help, go to a church, a soup line or shelter. If they can't find one, leave the state.If they have mental problems, well, "WELCOME" to the club America. We all hav e problems,but don't sit on street corners begging for someone else's hard earned money.Learn to fend for yourself and get off your lazy butts!Society OWES you "NOTHING".
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Skeeter said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 5:50 PM
"Get a job." Right on, Mayor Dan!
70266517Donna said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 6:20 PM
I would hate to know i was so cold hearted as the mayor has been. He doesn't know the half of what the homeless have been threw and done without. I am sure that all the homeless aren't drug users or boozing it up. They are trying and he want to be mean on top of all their hardship.
70267682AlaskanPrince said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 6:24 PM
Exactly..... I am tired of seeing homeless people on ther street begging for money, money to go buy beer and drugs, . Some of them look fit to work, there is plenty of work here in our state. But they are just plain to lazy to get a job, especially if people are going to keep handing the money. Heck I work and got two jobs, Your right Mr. Mayor, make them work and get them off the streets and so so called campsites. Put a program together that will assist them in finding a job, so they can get back on their feet.
70267881IOUSA said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 6:40 PM
channel 11 pathetic liberals
70268554K said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:03 PM
Right on, mayor!!!
70269482Kevin said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:37 PM
Dan! Dan! He's our Man!
70270947pinkSugar said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:43 PM
WOW you could tell She did not like his answers. Well, he was being honest. I had to come to a realization last yr when a family member was on a self destructive path, You can only save people so many times, They have to want to help themselves too. These homeless people aren't PETS, we can't keep them. They live how they decide they want to live. You can't save everyone. Where are these homeless people's FAMILIES???
70271131Barbara said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:45 PM
To the Mayor I say, when you have served your country and seen the horrific crimes that put some of them on the streets because they need medical help, psychiatric help, then you can say, "get a job" It's not that easy for the Nativs who come in from the Village life. Perhaps you Mr. Mayor have never lived in the villages. It's a different world out there. I lived there and the substance abuse, the sexual abuse, the mental abuse from the thieving people who pass through their villages and make them feel undereducated. In truth Mr. Mayor these are a lot of the homeless on the streets, alcoholics, drug addicts. Perhaps you should move in the direction of rehabilitation before believing these individuals can actually function in a capitalistic world. We need to rehabilitate before assuming they could function. This is the direction you should be going as a Mayor rather than judging them as lazy people. Most are truly living in fear of life itself, which is why they're homeless.
70271241Barbara said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 7:52 PM
I am dissapointed that the Mayor think these homeless people are functional people. Would he hire them? I doubt it. Most are from abusive lives or military horrors. Has he ever talked with them? I have and though some take advantage of the system there are many who try to hold a job but are not qualified or skilled to do so. The simplest thing like turning on a copier is impossible for some. I have worked in the villages and I can tell you, some brains just do not function like others. It doesn't mean they're dumb it simply means there isn't a job that can pay them for their common sense survival abilities. Perhaps you Mr. Mayor needs to restructure Alaska cities to accommodate these people so they can work! Rather than take away from education open your heart and classrooms that simply pay for these people to be retrained to function. And while you're at it build a REHABILITATION Program that WORKS! Alcohol and drugs is killing Alaska! Do something!
70271512Jem-Hadar said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:04 PM
In my work, we have been trying to hire some one for 8 months. 8 MONTHS. We have had several come in, that myself and my employer have seen begging on the street corners. Ok gotta give it to them for coming in and asking, but when they were told how much they would earn per hour, they actually told us that they make MORE then that on state aid. Even had one of them tell me that he earns well over $500.00 a DAY on the street corner. Called vehicles 4 wheeled ATM's.
70271951Shawn Klemmer jr. said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:05 PM
Some people have disabilities mayor, and mental issues mayor. Kinda cold hearted there mayor. So you will only talk to someone who cleans up and goes to your office and ask to see the mayor. Well now we know what kinda mayor we got.....But, if you can work. GET A JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
70272007Kevin said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:07 PM
He was speaking to that one guy. The one that decided to make a statement. He was together enough to make a public protest, so he could probably make a go at keeping a job.
70272037Kay said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 8:39 PM
You don't do people any favor by keeping them down and dependent. That's one thing so wrong with our country right now. Half of us work, and the other half expects us to do all the work for them and to pay all the taxes. First conservative and common sense thing I have heard Mayor Sullivan say!
70273056eaglecarver said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:18 PM
Why should they get a job, most of the pan handelers make more per month than I do, news story couple years back stated that the panhandelers who used to bum money on the corner of the Glen HWY & Bagraw made enough each summer to go live in Hawaii all winter. If they are smart enough to do that they are smart enough to get a job (manual labor, don't need a collage degree for that.)
70273916Rick said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:22 PM
WOW , Dan Sullivan failed on many levels. Like I dont know Mr mayor are you aware that your kingdom goes to the knik bridge and up eklutna road ? I've never seen him in Eagle River or Chugiak. and his comment about being a "regular guy" regular people don't have a silver spoon in their mouth and cash in on BS illegal insurance policies when their parents die. Guy is like every other politician silver spoon in mouth , handing out projects and money to their parents friends , and their kids. Thanks for being all that you are Mr Mayor .
70274036Raven said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:24 PM
Has anyone ever filled out a job application w/o an address or phone number? What about going on an interview in dirty clothes w/o a shower and a shave? Try it ..see how easy it is to get a job. Never mind the fact if you do not have a resume or know how to interview.Or bus money to get you to the job site. Or a place to sleep or shower , or clean clothes even if you are lucky to find a job..It takes some resources to assist people to become employable.
70274076Celia Harrison said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:28 PM
Alaska is going to have even more homeless people, we are behind the lower 48 and will be catching up. There is almost no low income housing in Anchorage, the waiting list is years at this point. I am on disability and want to live in Anchorage, I can't find a place to live there. I was homeless in Anchorage and went all over trying to find a place to live to no avail and that was two years ago, it is much worse now. Mayor Sullivan is clueless, there are people who can't work or people who can't get hired. I am on disability and have gone to the DVR office in Kenai, there was no assistance only a haughty woman who was put off that I had the audacity to show up. She told me they would not help me unless I was planning to always stay in Alaska. How is a guy who is living in a tent supposed to get cleaned up and dressed up? Mayor Sullivan did you take personal responsibility when you hired your girlfriend as a party planner? BTW, my disability is due to incompetence of AK to regulate.
70274132tundratim said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:38 PM
Homeless arent pets so lets discard them Wow! Do we really live in a Society where animals are more important than Humans. The arrogance is appalling. The mayors actions remind me of a man last century with a funny mustach Only Adolph wasnt so funny. Dont wait until the next elections lets recall
70274342Elizabeth said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:54 PM
I agree with many comments here about Mayor Dan. He contradicts his own words so how can he be trusted? He says he is a regular guy on one side, but on the other has NO clue about the issue. The only way his statement could be true is if he was born rich and always looked down on people rather than up because of what they have done. I fully agree that the people leaching off the system or pan hanlding need to be taken down. But what about the rest of Alaska?? The more I see people like Mayor Dan, the more I want to run for office to put some common sense back into government! To wotk for the people and serve them via actions, not empty words. Where do we get government spending under control and stop the self approved pay hikes?
70274591Lee said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 9:56 PM
Sure seems like we have an awful lot of "disabled" people in this state. Everywhere you go there are 300 and 400 lb. people with handicapped stickers hanging from their car mirrors. Their "disability" is being overweight and lazy and not doing anything about it. They can sure afford food and cigarettes, and alcohol and drugs, then dump their trash out on the streets, for someone else to clean up. We have a nation of lazy slobs holding their hands out instead of willing to take a job that is "beneath" them. I started as a dishwasher and a ditch digger, then a carpenter and on to more profitable skills, saving money, all the way. You have to "start". One cannot stand still in life. Stand still with your hand out and you will surely die a terrible, lonely death. "Get a job", ANY job is a great place to start. It builds character.
70274612Eustace Kakolantern said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:11 PM
The mayor only spoke the truth.His heart ain't bleeding purple cool-aid for the lazy.
70274862savatagethorns said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:12 PM
Mayor Sullivan, you are part owner of Mcginley's Pub, why don't you give him a job. How did this clown of a mayor get elected? And people trust you as a mayor after your sky is falling with eliminatiing libraries,and all the other cuts, only for there to be a "miracle surplus"... If anyone recalls mayor sullivans tv ads during the mayoral election he said Eric Croft was essentially lying about the sales tax,etc... Well its sure funny Eric Croft sure was on target. I am tired of the homeless problem, but if previous mayoral administrations and the current mayoral hadn't of jerked around , like with the GANGS problem, perhaps things would be better off. Oh yeah, how about giving this guy a job as a cop since weve had a serial rapist and a fake cop illegal alien . Gee mayor how about it?? Someone start a recall on this joke of a mayor. That way we get rid of someone who uses dan coffey to do his dirty work with the sales tax and title 21.
70274876savatagethorns said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:24 PM
Someone made a comment on the news media being liberals?? How does that person who said that know they are liberal??? Maybe they were offended that our mayor is such a smart mouth more concerned with the knik bridge and getting sales tax going. Cronyism is alive and well in anchorage with mayor sullivan. I hate the bums and indigents just as much as anyone else, but having a mayor make a smart-a** remark like that just makes him look like a spoiled punk. Your father sucked as mayor of anchorage, and you suck as mayor. And i totally agree with the person who mentioned the life insurance policy that his father got. And does anyone really believe mayor dan "get a job" sullivan wasn't a beneficiary of that life insurance policy. Way to show compassion with that comment MAYOR SCROOGE... or should i say MAYOR SCR*WED?? How about the city not letting a constuction company who the owners son is a rapist doing road repairs downtown? this city is going 2 crap under mayor hitler.
70275127Houston said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:52 PM
Funny how a lot of folks take cheap shots at homeless people. It is true that there are people out there that abuse the system, but if you stop and think about it, probably 95% of Alaskans do to a degree. I see people having tons of kids just to get more Permanent Funds, and perfectly healthy homeowners getting all kinds of social services for themselves and so called disabled family members. Keep in mind a lot of these homeless people don't have a job because they are not capable of holding down a job.
70275729nanook1957 said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 10:52 PM
Dan was right on. I work hard to pay my bills. When my property tax goes to people who may or may not want to work. I care! "O" Begich" has a lot of redistribution of wealth money to spend and you should talk to him.
70275733Dan Sullivan has no soul said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 11:28 PM
Maybe in Pakistan after you drive away all economic development and outsource police and fire.
70276241Thumper said on Wednesday, Jul 6 at 11:30 PM
Maybe he can run for mayor. He sure can't be any worse for the city of Anchorage
70276276Travis said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:17 AM
AMEN! If you are smart enough to protest at city hall, you are probably smart enough to man the counter at McDonalds. Never been a fan of Dan Sullivan, but I agree 100% with him in this instance. Time for people to get off their lazy a$$ and find a job, and stop expecting the rest of us to pay you and your children's way, and support you all from the cradle to the grave.
70276887T said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:27 AM
They are products of their environment.
70277012Jimiq said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 1:19 AM
Mayor, YOU have a job. How about DOING it?
70277964rightous said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 2:37 AM
Half of these homeless don't have the money, transportation, they need medical care like physical check-up getting off the streets, they have to eat like anybody to function, education on living skills, they need help and knowledge to do what's next with counseling. They need to get cleaned up before telling them to "get a job." Speak utilizing educaitonal values.
70279177Shaun said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 3:22 AM
Get a job sounds a lot like "Let them eat cake". I have been homeless twice before, and i will tell you its not easy to get back to being a productive citizen. I work at a package liquor/convenience store and i see more people coming in already drunk trying to buy more with credit cards and nice clothing. What really upsets me is waiting at the food stamp office and seeing women come in for appointments with Coach, and Dooney and Burke purses and I phones. If they really needed help buying food they shouldnt be carrying 500 dollar purses.
70280321Poster said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:19 AM
Fact is that most homeless people are receiving disability for conditions such as alcoholism or drug addiction. In addition to medical, food stamps, and free treatment, they receive cash from SSDI. The majority of these choose to prioritize their booze and drugs over shelter and other necessities. Very few homeless are out there with no money or care, and some have more resources for care than people working and trying to take care of themselves. While I wouldn't have used the verbiage the mayor did, the sentiment is understandable. I got tired of the "I have nothing" argument coming from people who had more coming to them from Disability than I had coming to me from my job serving them.
70285226ion486 said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:51 AM
whatever homeless people need,it is not to be enabled.their family might help them.perfect strangers might also if they were helping themselves.
70287024Fed Up said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 6:40 AM
Once again the media has selected the wrong poster child for an issue. Mr. John Martin III, convicted in 2005 of Sexual Abuse of a Minor is the 1st Degree, is not the face of homelessness in Anchorage. He is not incapacitated by substance abuse or mental health issues. He is an intelligent, articulate individual who has committed a barrier crime, and now refuses to work to overcome his past and be a contributing member of society. He is not representative of those living with substance abuse and mental health problems, or those families struggeling to make ends meet. The Mayor called this one correctly:Clean up and get a job. Too many people are trying to make this person (ho does not want services or casee management) the poster child for homelessness in Anchorage. Wrong poster child for a serious social issue.
70289947Kevin said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 7:10 AM
How about hiring him a party planner, but unlike the last one there are some "things" he might not be willing to do.
70291587Cindy B said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 8:06 AM
While a little cold sounding, I don't really hate him for what he said. Sure it's hard to get a job with no address or dirty clothes, etc. But most of these people are already getting a good amount of assistance and can get a free cell phone for $1/mo with the lifeline service. Some people just like living the way they do more than 'working for the man' or doing anything other than what they feel like. It's an epidemic. I'm not for abolishing assistance at all, people sometimes need that. But it's supposed to be for emergencies and to help you get back on your feet, not support you for the rest of your life. For the 20% of homeless who really are trying hard I would do anything to help them. For the other 80%...yeah, damn right get a job!
70295001Done said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 9:41 AM
Comment moderation here is atrocious. There was no reason to not post my comment, it broke no rules and wasn't near as surly as some others. Never coming back to this website or this channel. I won't accept censorship. Cya
70301183Anna said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:03 AM
We have the best Mayor in the Union! This country gives enough handouts, and it also has enough opportunities for ALL to create the lifes they desire.
70306671Chinh Nguyen said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:08 AM
Life is not as simple as Sullivan thinks it is. I bet that he would not hire a homeless person who is a drug addict or an alcoholic to cut his grass or to shovel snow on his driveway or to work as a street cleaner for the city.He would not hire a cocaine user as a baby sitter.... To fight the homeless problem, the state, the city and community, religious leaders must address the root causes. Help people get off drugs and alcohol, build a community college and teach young people technical skills so they can find better jobs. There are plenty of good paying jobs in Alaska that can not be filled with local human resources and are being farmed out to workers from the local 48, who give back almost nothing to Alaska because we don't have state employment tax. It's easy to talk the talk. I challenge all Alaskan politicians and community leaders to walk the walk and make Alaska a better place for all Alaskas.
70306987Amazed said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:00 PM
All of you guys suck. Go for a hike or something.
70310081ccketch said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:03 PM
it is sad that so many people are so quick to judge others based on bad information, no information, stereotypes, mistaken assumptions, etc. how many of you have ever taken the time to ask a homeless person how they got that way? why do you assume you know what got them there in the first place. everybody who judges has within them the potential to be exactly the same kind of person they are looking down on. you really can't say you would have done different unless you went through the same circumstances and proven yourself. same goes the other way. i don't know what judgemental people went through to become so high and mighty. i can't say i wouldn't be just like them if i had lived a similar life. being judgemental could be a disease, possibly a genetic defect, the same as people prone to addictions. so both sides should try to understand one another.
70310292your wrong Anna said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:06 PM
Off with the "Union"
70310511ccketch said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:09 PM
one more thing. to the guy who said it's a fact that most homeless receive disability for alcohol and drug addiction. LOL!!!! who told you that?? you should have researched that one before posting it. but thx for the chuckle.
70310636Anonymous said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:11 PM
How about a one way ticket to California.Then at least they wont have to worry about the cold and it would be cheaper.
70310737Travis said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 12:16 PM
Second time a comment of mine that was perfectly within the guidelines, has not been posted. Liberal censorship at its finest.
70311049MAJIKIMAJE said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 1:31 PM
A year ago, I left Barrow Alaska. Me and my 3 sons flew to Anchorage and checked into a homeless shelter; We were homeless and lived with hundreds of homeless people for 3 months. We did not need to do this. We have plenty of money. We wanted to learn. What it is like to go through this. We met a lot of nice people and a lot of not so nice people. We had a very profound effect on a lot of people that changed their lives in a positive manner. How can you possibly comment on someone else's life until you have walked in their shoes. I exposed my three sons to this for one reason - to show them how important it is.. NOT TO JUDGE OTHERS. GET A JOB - those are the words of a mindless idiot that has 'never walked or learned" A huge brick wall is in front of every homeless person. It is virtually impossible to get past. We know first hand how utterly horrible this type of lifestyle can be on a person. The stess is overwhelming.
70315409AnchScanner said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 2:14 PM
MAJIKIMAJE, 1st article, if you stayed in a homeless shelter for 3 months with two children, and didnt need too- what about the homeless person sleeping out in the cold because there was no room at the shelter? Glad you didnt need to live the life of a heroin addict or someone that committed suicide!
70317507Mike J. said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 3:00 PM
This particular protestor is a documented sex offender and thief. He has publicly stated that he does nothing but panhandle and mooch off of others, full intent to remain homeless and no intent to try and help himself. This is the second so-called protest that he has done, but no real positive agenda except to get in the way. Notice that no other homeless individuals made any effort to buddy up/team up with him? What we did see was a few average citizens shaking his hand for a 'feel good' moment. So why should the Mayor meet with him, and why should anybody take him serious?
70319641Ross said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 4:07 PM
Well said, Mr. Mayor.
70322366FYI said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:28 PM
offer him a city job helping the homeless get a home, put his money where his mouth is
70326941AkAntics said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 5:59 PM
Follow the money People and you will find that Dan Sullivan is dumping it into road construction projects left and right because its easier to hide and cheat the system there.
70328482Sullivan rocks said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 8:46 PM
Finally, a politician who says what most of us think! I love this guy. Even more fun to watch the liberals freak out over this. Pass the popcorn.
70335516MajikImaje said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 9:37 PM
AnchScanner: I stayed @ the shelter with my 3 sons. You obviously can't read well. We did not take anyone's bed as you put it. We stayed there in the summer time and there was plenty of room for everyone with lots of room to spare. What ever happened to Character? What ever happened to Compassion? IN the three months we were there, We gave away over 3,000 dollars of our own money to help people!! And you have the nerve to say .. "we took ??? Call beans Cafe - Call Brother Francis Shelter and ask about us. They said: we have never met people such as you. Nobody has given to these people as you we have. We volunteered for major chores for many hours every day, just to help...!! Go get a job ? NO! Go get a conscience!!
70336586Really Sully? said on Thursday, Jul 7 at 11:10 PM
"Get a job?" Is that the best you can come up with? With your education and in your position of leadership. Honestly, you have no better long term solution to the homeless problem than to tell the guy "Get a job?" I wish everyone of them would "get a job" but it ain't going to happen and you know it. Maybe you should think about it a little harder and come up with a slightly more intelligent response.
70338257foodserver said on Saturday, Jul 9 at 11:23 AM
THANK YOU MikeJ and FedUp. if we're going to let these guys out of jail, "Let Them Pick Up Trash Or Clean Bathrooms". A Big Old Pile of Shift Work...overnight shifts, and not at hospitals, to minimize the risk of re-offenses.
70419536Phil said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:04 AM
Sullivan is an idiot. His best solution to a homeless person with mental and other problems is get a job. Who is going to hire This type of person? No One. With Unemployment Running around 9% Businesses Definitely aren't going to be hiring homeless people like this. You are aristocratic, stuck up, arrogant, fool. Instead of trying to find ways to help these people the best you can come up with is get a job. Unbelievable! Why don't You have one of your people Go undercover as a homeless person with a mental and other problems for a few weeks. Then have that person apply for jobs And see how far he gets. I bet you not one place that He applies to Would hire him. Most who tosses application in the trash immediately.
70692451Phil said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:06 AM
Sorry about the mistakes in my comment but the speech recognition software I'm using is still learning.
70692597mikey372002 said on Thursday, Jul 14 at 9:42 AM
Dan , I bet your nothing like your father, I never met your father so i cant say nothing about him, As for your personal self, sounds like a self serving person in office, your kinds of comments will get you nowhere, well unemployed at least, time for a new mayor, fresh ideas, Not the same old crap from old mayors.
70695188WHAT A LAUGH!! said on Wednesday, Sep 7 at 11:28 AM
Homelessness is caused by their enviroment? Must be a dumb GORE thinker.Like Global Warming! These people have CHOICES, like everyone else.Most are too LAZY to try and get their lives strightened out! Some are drunks or drug users, BY CHOICE,so don't blame society! I hope they NEVER build low income housing in Anchorage, it will turn into a ghetto just like the ones in the lower 48. People that get "FREE" anything have nopride in keeping the property up, clean or respectable. If these homeless want help, go to a church, a soup line or shelter. If they can't find one, leave the state.If they have mental problems, well, "WELCOME" to the club America. We all hav e problems,but don't sit on street corners begging for someone else's hard earned money.Learn to fend for yourself and get off your lazy butts!Society OWES you "NOTHING".
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