In Memory of Dr. Steven Haataja

He was an assistant professor of mathematics at Chadron (Nebraska) State College. They found his bound body among the burned hills outside of town on March 9th. He died of soot and smoke inhalation.

This murder has all the earmarks of a hate crime. I'm glad it made the Denver and National press. The professor lived alone and had recently moved to Chadron Nebraska after graduate work at UNL. One report said he had "effeminate" mannerisms. I really don't want "it" to be about that, so we will wait and see. Anyway, new groceries in his fridge indicated he wanted to return.

Regardless of the motivation, it was an awful way to die and I hope they catch the person(s) who did it. I really enjoy most people in Nebraska, but am mindful that a few of them are not all that tolerant of people who are "different". From his picture, I can see that the Professor was a gentle soul who probably would not harm anyone. It is a shame!

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