LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Supervisors Should Stop Building Frenzy
-- Editor, Times-Dispatch:
Like many other people, I am concerned about the state of the economy and the building industry. I drive through Henrico and see all the new homes being built with astronomical prices tacked on. Homes in an area near Hungary Road have prices starting at about $269,000.With foreclosures and banking problems abounding, I am concerned with the mental health of the Henrico Board of Supervisors who continue to add to this problem by allowing more and bigger buildings in every area that has a spot of vacant land -- buildings that most likely will sit vacant for a while due to the economic situation. Maybe a mental health assessment would be in order.
H.S. Bell. Richmond.
Supporting Intolerance Is Not a Change
Editor, Times-Dispatch:
I am a straight white man who eagerly campaigned for and contributed to President-elect Barack Obama. I'm extremely dismayed and disappointed that Obama chose the Rev. Rick Warren to give the opening prayer at the inauguration.When Warren says that same-sex couples are the moral equivalent of child abusers and incest practitioners, he is not only wildly inaccurate but hurtful and hateful. These views do not seem compatible with a compassionate Christian spirit.
I'm not surprised that there are rightwing Christians who spew venom in the name of love, but I am surprised when the campaign for change tolerates it.
If this is "the change we can believe in," I want my money back.
Al Simmons. Richmond.
Hold All Schools To Same Standards
Editor, Times-Dispatch:
With the impending administrative changes in Washington comes the inevitable controversy over public funding for all education. Letter-writer Tom Fite presents the stale, shallow "choice" argument.Having been a school counselor for 15 years, I would like to say that public funding for all educational settings would be fair under the following conditions: that every school accept and keep every applicant regardless of academic or behavioral challenges; that every school is equipped and required to meet every child's academic, social, and psychological needs, including those that fall within the federal mandates for special education services; that every school is required to teach exactly the same SOL curriculum and meet the same deadlines and testing security regulations in place for public schools; that no child can be expelled for wreaking havoc in the classroom and depriving other students of the opportunity to learn; and that all educators agree to a substandard wage compared to other professionals with college and post-graduate degrees. In order to keep a level playing field, of course, these requirements would have to include those who homeschool their children.
Today's public school educators are expected to do much more than simply teach the three R's. Our private, charter, and homeschool options are not held to the same standards of inclusion. Rather than sitting in judgment, perhaps some of the critics could pay closer attention to their local politics and the expenditures for education -- or better yet, volunteer a few hours a week in a local school, get a clue, and really make difference in the lives of these little people who will be our future leaders.
Cecelia Thomas. Mechanicsville.
Thanks for Saving Taxpayers Money
Editor, Times-Dispatch:
I am very glad that Gov. Tim Kaine has found a way to cut down at least one expense for the commonwealth in 2009. Since he will be a part-time governor, I am assuming he will be receiving only part of his full-time salary.Carol McClure. Henrico.
Caroline Kennedy Would Improve Senate
Editor, Times-Dispatch:
In the editorial, "Not for Dubbing," you ask: "Does the Senate require a Kennedy in order to be legitimate?" Maybe not, but one thing in Caroline Kennedy's favor is that she brings a solid reputation of outstanding character not tainted in any way by public or political scandal. As such she would be a refreshing addition to the Senate, as she would clearly act in the best interest of New Yorkers and the nation.Hillary Clinton, with her limited experience, became a great senator by working hard and learning fast. Caroline Kennedy will do the same as she has the necessary qualities to be a superb senator. Those include initiative, imagination, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Paul Schoenbaum. Williamsburg.
Why Is One Bigot OK And the Other One Not?
Editor, Times-Dispatch
I'm trying to figure out why my liberal friends are so upset about the Rev. Rick Warren giving the invocation at the inauguration. Just so I'm clear: President-elect Barack Obama can attend a church for more than 20 years and listen to the most hateful tirades delivered by an intolerant bigot, but he cannot have another intolerant bigot say a prayer that will last a few minutes?Steve Armstrong. Richmond.
Reader Reactions
Way to miss the point, Old Dump- the letter was simply asking why one bigot was good and the other bigot was bad. Can you please check your liberal handbook and let us know? Thanks!
Newsflash to Old Grump. MCCAIN IS NOT A CONSERVATIVE. Conservatives didn’t have a dog in the fight last year. I will never get over the extent that Marxists have taken over this country. Both parties are corrupt. We need a complete housecleaning.
Obama’s invitation to Rev. Warren was a symbolic gesture, an attempt to bring the county together. Not asking Rev. Wright to participate simply robbed conservatives of another chance to rant. Your man lost. Get over it.
The only thing that will improve the senate is a total housecleaning and returning to the way the founders established it with senators being selected by the state legislators. Repeal the 17th amendment.
Post a Comment(Requires free registration)
- Please avoid offensive, vulgar, or hateful language.
- Respect others.
- Use the "Flag Comment" link when necessary.
- See the Terms and Conditions for details.
Advertisement