News-Record.com

A recent letter to the News & Record made reference to a vote by the North Carolina legislators for a smoke-free assembly. Also, a bill was introduced to ban smoking in all restaurants. The action by the legislators was proper, as they are required to work in the Assembly Hall. However, they would be off-base to pass a bill that does not allow a legal product in a place of business.

People are not required to frequent a restaurant. We choose to eat there. The restaurant owner must have complete authority to decide whether to allow smoking in the restaurant. If we don't want to be subjected to possible secondhand smoke, then the choice is ours not to eat there.

The writer cited several establishments that have banned smoking, and that is their right.

Contrary to the writer's opinion, not only are the smokers' rights infringed upon, but so are the rights of the restaurant owner.

If smoking is banned, what could be next: Cooking with animal fat? Fatty foods? High-calorie foods? Salt? Alcohol?

We, the public, must make responsible choices and not allow the government do it for us.

Herbert Smith
Greensboro

In Cal Thomas' Feb. 18 column on AIDS [not posted], he wrote: "While data and interpretations of it vary as to whether homosexuals are any more promiscuous than hetrosexuals, those who are at greatest risk for contracting and spreading this new virulent strain of HIV are promiscuous in the extreme." I guess it's easier to believe oversexed homos cause the spread of AIDS than to admit that this sinister epidemic is growing in America even among heterosexuals.

Cal is wrong about the homosexual community's lack of concern these past 20 years. I know people who educate and counsel people, both gay and straight, about preventing the spread of AIDS. Countless organizations across America do the same thing.

AIDS continues to fester partly because Cal wants to believe that no heterosexual man would bring such a vile thing to his home (unless of course he was put in prison and raped there.) Cal quotes C. Everett Koop to make it sound official, but Dr. Koop says nothing about which sexual group is to blame.

Yes, risky behavior can cause AIDS to spread, and how terribly irresponsible of Cal to let too many people off the hook by pointing his judgmental finger at just a few. Talk about risky behavior!

Mary Coyne Wessling
Greensboro

Tom Teepen and other media types cannot and will not accept the fact that George W. Bush was re-elected president by the voters of the United States.

In his syndicated column Feb. 22 [not posted], Teepen writes half-truths and innuendoes about the president. He fails to write that the president is making a proposal on Social Security; it is not law. The proposal simply asks Social Security recipients to consider a voluntary program in which a small percentage of their Social Security payments would be placed in a private account. No one is obligated to consider the idea, and no one is forced to adopt the proposal. No Social Security recipient has to do anything but collect his or her check as always. Teepen doesn't mention this part. He only writes scary stuff, which is not true.

Teepen's attack on the president is consistent with the Democratic strategy of accuse without offering a plan of their own. Just constant complaints with no solutions. Teepen even invokes John Kerry's name with a false statement. He should get a life.

Don Mulligan
High Point

The "editor's note" on the Feb. 23 letter by David Parker regarding GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender) suicide risk was inappropriate, unprofessional and misleading.

The Surgeon General's complete 1999 statement reads, "It has been widely reported that gay and lesbian youth are two to three times more likely to commit suicide than other youth and that 30 percent of all attempted or completed youth suicides are related to issues of sexual identity. There are no empirical data on completed suicides to support such assertions, but there is growing concern about an association between suicide risk and bisexuality or homosexuality for youth, particularly males. Increased attention has been focused on the need for empirically based and culturally competent research on the topic of gay, lesbian and bisexual suicide."

The report was not disputing that there was an increased risk for suicide by GLBT youth. It was indicating that there was a need for empirical research because of the numerous reports about the increased risk for GLBT youth. For up-to-date research on GLBT youth suicides, go to www.youth-suicide.com or try looking at the scars on the wrists of some of our kids.

Gary Palmer
Greensboro

After reading the article by Bryan Bender of the Boston Globe on the U.S. military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy on gays (Feb. 25, not posted), it appears to me the military has discharged its brains.

William Leigh Glasgow
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Michael Dougherty

Though I find myself at odds with parts of President Bush's agenda, I wholeheartedly support his vision to bring broad-based ownership to all Americans. Aside from his Social Security proposal, he has yet to clarify the details of this new ownership society. Will Bush's ownership benefit a precious few: those who enjoy the spoils of ownership already?

Not if Bush remembers there is a tool within our current tax code that holds the greatest promise for the average American to be a true owner: Employee Stock Ownership Plans. ESOPs require no changes to be legislated through Congress. They exist in the tax code today and are readily available to all sized companies, from Fortune 500 to the smallest of entrepreneurial firms. ESOPs grant each employee some ownership of the company for which they work and, therefore, provide direct accountability or profitability if the company fails or succeeds. Successful ESOPs build net worth for employees and are exceptional retirement savings vehicles.

The fastest way to create more significant ownership for a large number of Americans is expansion of ESOPs. Research has proved over and over that employee ownership builds successful, competitive businesses while creating equitable wealth for employees.

Yet, fewer than 10 percent of U.S.-based companies offer ESOPs; less than 1 percent have the vision to allow employees to own the company in its entirety. Since 2002, Kindermusik International has been proud to be 100 percent employee-owned, one of a very small number of wholly-owned ESOP companies in North Carolina.

By making the average-pay employee an owner in the business where she works, we can greatly speed the expansion of ownership President Bush has so repeatedly endorsed. And there is perhaps a more significant economic byproduct. Widespread employee ownership of businesses is a more sustainable form of capitalism. To use the words of President George H. W. Bush, employee ownership is a "kinder and gentler" form of capitalism more likely to spread wealth and bring prosperity to average-pay employees.

As an executive who chose employee ownership over less inclusive forms of capitalization for Kindermusik International, I felt overwhelmingly that it was simply the right thing to do. Class divisions in our country are deep and widening under the policies of President Bush.

An embrace of employee ownership by our president might reverse this trend and bring a future of broad-based, inclusive prosperity in which we can all participate.

The writer, who lives in Greensboro, is chairman and CEO of Kindermusik.

Using the minds God gave us, let us consider the following questions:

Is Social Security really in danger? Is it wise to rush prematurely into reform? Should our children, our grandchildren, and millions of minimum-wage workers risk their retirement money in the uninsured stock market hoping for big gains that may never come? Are we prepared to consign people to homelessness if their investments fail? Are we ready to provide, through welfare and personal assets, for those retirees who do not profit as expected? Is it moral for our government to abdicate responsibility for its senior citizens?

I find it unfathomable that this old-age safety-net program might be altered when a simple raise in the FICA cap, requiring no change in the tax rate, would correct any conceivable shortfall and would also be fairer to low-wage earners. Not to take this step provides further evidence that the Bush administration panders to the wealthy.

Most people receive Social Security when they are long past their prime earning potentials. They cannot start over. They need security.

Maureen Parker
Greensboro

This is a heartfelt plea to all of us, and I say "us" because I, too, have been guilty of this. We talk on our cell phones without an earpiece or other hands-free device, despite our proven inability to operate our vehicles appropriately and with total disregard for human life because it is easier to take a life than to make one.

I learned this recently as my daughter and I were almost run over by a lady driving through a parking lot, trying to balance her cell phone and maneuver her car. Luckily, she missed us, but what about those who aren't so lucky?

A WXII (Channel 12) news report said a University of Delaware study found that "even with a hands-free device, our reaction time is like that of the elderly." Therefore, to avoid being seriously injured or causing an accident while talking on the phone, the safest thing to do is pull off to the side of the road, handle your call, then continue your journey. However, if you absolutely must utilize your cell phone while driving, please use an earpiece! The life you save may be your own.

April W. Rivers
Greensboro

On Feb. 21, Steve Kroll-Smith asked when will we say no to wars fought for lies, money for Mars, destroying Social Security, etc.

The answer is not until Republicans and Democrats are ready to move past the fact that Clinton lied about an extramarital affair while he was president. Republicans, on their moral high horse, have used his dalliance as a rallying point while allowing the important issues of war, international opinion and our economy to be undermined. The Christian conservatives follow Bush blindly and are leading this country down a very dangerous path.

The Democrats are responsible for allowing Bush to be "elected" in the first place. They have mounted two presidential campaigns that were as inept as they were unsuccessful. And they still choose to ignore the Clinton factor rather than confront it.

When this country can move past one regrettable mistake and return to rational governing, we will once again be the respected leader of the free world.

Mark R. Civile
Staley

We are referring to the article published on Feb. 23 [not posted], "Parents say academy is not needed."

We are ninth-graders at Grimsley High School and strongly disagree with the idea for the Ninth-Grade Academy. Creating a sheltered environment for the incoming ninth-graders would only cripple them more when they enter the 10th grade. By being put into team-like groups, the freshmen will be singled out even more than we were when we entered high school.

The article states that 17 percent of freshmen are failing this year. Most of the students who are failing are the ones who have never cared about their grades. If the whole freshman class is put into teams, the school would be holding back the 83 percent of students who are excelling in school and are excited to be in a real high school environment.

In middle school, we had absolutely no freedom. Now that we have entered high school, we have to travel around the whole campus and are a lot more independent. By putting the ninth-graders into teams, the administration would not only be crippling them, but taking away their independence and stunting their academic growth.

Emily Harden
Mary Aaroe
Greensboro

Over the past four years, the Bush administration has willingly become a wholly owned subsidiary of corporate America. Two recent stories illustrate this transformation.

Wal-Mart settled 24 federal child labor law violations for a fine of $135,400, a settlement called "less than a pittance" by Connecticut's attorney general. Worse, the Labor Department arrangement provided Wal-Mart a 15 days' heads-up notice in investigating these violations. This egregious deal nullifies the effectiveness of a 70-year-old federal law and brings shame to the Labor Department.

The cavalier attitude of the Food and Drug Administration is a second illustration. Not only is there an absence of regulation of "risky" drugs on the market, but intimidation of whistle-blowing conscientious employees has taken place. In this instance, a 40-year-old federal drug safety law is being neglected.

It is purely coincidental, no doubt, that Wal-Mart and large prosperous pharmaceutical companies are generous contributors to the Bush-Rove political machine. Crony capitalism is alive and well and, sadly, is likely to be in high gear in the next four years.

Thomas J. Leary
Greensboro

Last month, the Kyoto Treaty on Global Warming went into effect, marking the first time the world (with the notable exception of the United States) united to address the greatest natural disaster since the last glacial period. The treaty reduces global emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other gases that trap the sun's heat, melting the glaciers and flooding coastal cities throughout the world. Last week, U.S. government scientists confirmed a definite rise in the temperature of ocean waters, the driving force behind global climate changes.

Despite our administration's boycott of the treaty, each of us should do our share to minimize emissions of these gases by limiting the use of fossil fuels in our cars, our homes and our diets.

Yes, our diets. According to Cornell University professor David Pimentel, production of animal-based foods accounts for 8 percent of the national consumption of fossil fuels -- nearly as much as driving our cars. It requires nearly 10 times as much fuel as production of plant-based foods. The additional fuel is used to grow animal feed, to operate factory farms and slaughterhouses, and to process and refrigerate meat/dairy products.

We can show our support for the Kyoto Treaty and planetary survival each time we visit our supermarket.

Glenn Gustafson
Greensboro

It concerns me greatly that school violence and threats of violence are on the rise. I see it every day! It's absolutely imperative that we have more administrators and resource officers in our schools due to the fact that too many kids are getting away with crimes in the school.

I realize that taxpayers are thinking that'll cost too much. But, parents, which would you rather see: higher taxes or a child who's been either beaten, harassed, mugged or even murdered?

We must have more overseers in the schools, especially middle and high schools. We as citizens and you as parents must demand a better environment for these students.

Matthew Scarborough
Greensboro
The writer is a junior at Smith High School.

In Jim Schlosser's column Feb. 21 [not posted], I noticed that he mentioned, "A bunch of feral cats lives at the corner of Hughes and Lyndon streets, a block from the newspaper."

CBS News reported Feb. 21 that bird flu might cause as many as 40 million deaths, if I heard correctly. On Sept. 3, 2004, the News & Record printed an article by The Associated Press stating that cats could carry bird flu.

Isn't it only right that the News & Record should inform the public very soon on the front page of this possible catastrophe and, perhaps, get feral cats off the streets as is stipulated by Guilford County ordinance 5-7 "Animals running at large prohibited"? It might someday save a few human lives.

Judy Stierand
Whitsett

In light of a long-standing history of refusal and inability to enforce the noise ordinance of the city of Greensboro (News & Record, Jan. 23, 1998, "City Council accused of ignoring noise ordinance enforcement," other related articles and also from frequent and continuing personal experiences), I would like to call for a repeal of the ordinance.

The recent pledge to enforce the noise ordinance in High Point seems to be very effective in curbing overly loud noise and disturbances from clubs and car stereos.

However, the noise ordinance in Greensboro has such vague and subjective language it is not even considered when residents ask or even demand enforcement here in Greensboro.

Since the city of Greensboro seems to have no interest or ability to enforce the ordinance currently written, the noise ordinance needs to be removed from the books.

Make it official and remove the fantasies and unreasonable expectations of Greensboro residents for the quiet and peaceful use of their own property.

Deborah Haro
Greensboro

In 1993, at the behest of a powerful local politician, the city of Greensboro provided a $1 million loan to the St. James Housing Board.

As a taxpayer, I have some questions concerning this "loan" of my money. Was the loan interest-free? Was there no payment plan? What was the collateral? What were the penalties for nonpayment? What about foreclosure?

Unbelievably, the same person who "brokered" this loan also wound up managing the funds for St. James.

Even more astounding, no payments were ever made on the loan, there was no follow-up by the city as to the status of the loan, and the $1 million of taxpayer money seems to have simply vanished.

In view of the obvious malfeasance negligence on the parts of city officials and St. James management, would the following not be reasonable:

1. Resignation or removal from office of every City Council member still sitting who participated in this fiasco.

2. Demand for disclosure by the St. James manager of the disposition of the $1 million provided to him by the city for upgrading the project.

As taxpayers, we should demand no less.

W.K. Oden Jr.
Greensboro

Editor's note: The city loan was interest-free. The city had the power to foreclose but had no say in the loan agreement on who would manage the apartments.

I agree with your editorial, "Raleigh's permanent power" (Feb. 21) [not posted], but you didn't go far enough.

I believe all elected officials should be limited to one-term (or two nonconsecutive terms). Politicians who refuse to give up or share power have dictatorial tendencies.

If they can vote themselves a pay raise, they will. If they can pass a law that they don't have to obey, they will. Conflicts of interest don't apply to their friends and relatives. They consider public service a career.

A good way to limit the size, growth and power of government is to have term limits, referenda and recall elections. Having term limits will give the people more power over the government. That is why the incumbents are against term limits.

Chuck Mann
Greensboro

Many of our national leaders, respected news commentators and some of our citizens have rationalized that in these critical times physical and mental torture of prisoners might be legal and justified because a threat is so imminent. "Head immersing" and "pain not leading to death" actually are forms of American persuasion considered by some as justified.

The Patriot Act (so misnamed) has served as a new, nefarious constitution and a foundation for obfuscation and justification for the eradication or civil liberties, and all in the name of protecting America.

Are we astounded that some soldiers have mistreated their charges? Are we not different from our enemies? Why are so few speaking out? Where is the outrage?

The greatest threat to America is ourselves lest we fail to sustain right conduct -- even to evil prisoners.

The justification of torture for the sake of safety is an aberration of our own system of liberty and righteous conduct. It has been said that "he who sacrifices liberty for safety deserves neither."

The slope leading to the unconstitutional abyss without rights is precipitous. Let us step back from it.

Jim Snyder
Lexington

Feb. 10 marked the one-year anniversary of a day that will go down in infamy in High Point's history. One year ago, the High Point "Choice Plan," better known as the "Fat Chance Plan," was established. Recently, one school board member recently called it the "random assignment" plan.

At least they aren't insulting the public by saying "choice" anymore.

"Black Tuesday," the beginning of an emotional upward spiral of chaos and instability for High Point families, will also be remembered as a day when complacency disappeared.

The plan was supposed to "equalize, relieve overcrowding and fill empty seats." Recent studies by Guilford County Schools show empirical evidence that the plan is not working. There is an increase in suspensions and in the number of students failing one or more courses.

Ironically, on Feb. 10, high school tours and an "options fair" were held. Should the "fair" part be renamed the "Pick Three Lottery"? Please remember those who have gone before you: the proud, the brave, the rising High Point ninth-graders of 2004 and their families.

Barbara McAbee
Jamestown

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Robert C. Page III

The question for each panelist was to answer "yes" or "no" as to whether a player who had been determined to have used performance-enhancing substances should be stricken from the Major League Baseball record book.

The occasion was the gathering of 250 people at the "2005 Hot Stove" presented by the Burlington Indians minor-league team and its booster club.

The program was entertaining and successful. However, the responses to the questions were in stark contrast to other mostly light-hearted answers submitted in writing by the audience.

Former major leaguer Greg Booker was first to be asked. He hesitated, thought and then answered, "Yes, the rules are the rules and should be followed." He served himself and baseball well with his answer.

The other panelists were asked if they would like to respond. The silence was total and prolonged, and it clearly sent the wrong message.

All the panelists have professional baseball experience. They were a current manager of a Major League Baseball team, minor-league club president, college head baseball coach, former major-league players with several teams, an assistant general manager of a Major League Baseball team, and a minor-league manager.

Is the implication from their silence that they condone the use of performance-enhancing substances? What other conclusion is logical?

They had the opportunity to explain or qualify a "yes" or "no" or any other statement. Is it fear that they would be ridiculed by their peers or that their livelihoods would be threatened if they said anything?

Surely, there must be something the 250 baseball fans needed to be told to learn and understand. So much for the integrity of Major League Baseball among this group.

What a missed opportunity, save for Greg Booker, and an otherwise sad commentary on the principles and ethics of these baseball professionals and Major League Baseball.

The writer lives in Chapel Hill.

The debate rages on: How do we ensure that ninth-graders are successful? The current debate centers on what kind of program is needed, or is a program needed? Most ninth-graders transition successfully to high school, but for those who don't, something needs to be done. The essential question is why wait until the ninth grade to address the problem? For Guilford County schools to experience current ninth-grade failure rates and discipline problems, isn't it logical that the best use of resources would be to tackle the problem in earlier grades?

The problem is not with middle school staffs or ninth-graders themselves. The problem lies with the paradigms and strategies of the middle school concept. The solution is not to fundamentally change high school for everyone, but to see that everyone who goes to high school has the tools they need to experience success. Expectations of attendance, behavior and effort required in high school must be nurtured during middle school.

I fail to understand why so many "experts" cannot see what to me appears to be common sense. Are we so enamored with special programs and projects that we fail to see the forest for the trees?

Joe Franks
Greensboro
The writer is a career teacher of more than 20 years in Greensboro.

The recent 162-point drop in the Dow Jones stock index triggered by the South Korean Central Bank's disinclination to buy more U.S. debt should be taken as a "shot across our bow" warning us of the looming financial catastrophe that could easily be triggered by like actions of any one of the big three foreign holders of U.S. debt (Saudi Arabia, China and Japan). Yet, Republicans in control of the executive and legislative branches of our government continue to spend like drunken sailors (unfunded prescription drug benefits, $200 billion for the war in Iraq, tax cuts for the wealthiest among us).

What will it take for Republicans to wake up and remember that they once were the party of fiscal responsibility? Unfortunately, I believe we will all soon know the answer to that question as interest rates rise and the stock market tanks.

Kent Boyles
Greensboro

I am a new resident in Greensboro. Being a movie buff, I was very surprised to learn Greensboro did not have a theater that offered all the wonderful independent and documentary films that are being made.

I moved from Chapel Hill where three theaters showed these films. I miss them. I do not believe I am the only person in this town who would enjoy having the indies available to them.

Come on, theater owners, don't deny us the independent movies.

Betty N. West
Greensboro

Regarding Raymond Petrea's letter (Feb. 20): His method of interpreting the Constitution is audacious. In 1934, Fred Astaire starred in the musical, "The Gay Divorcee." Seventy-one years ago, gay meant "happy and exuberant," but being a divorcee had a stigma so the title was self-explanatory. Today, that title has a different meaning, but the movie doesn't. Language evolution can't change the intent of a 214-year-old document, either.

The National Guard was established by law in 1916. How does the Constitution address it 125 years in advance? The term "the people" is found in the first, second, fourth, ninth and 10th amendments, with the 10th referring to "the people" separately from "the states" to avoid confusing the two.

In 2003, America had 45 murders and 256 rapes per day. Yet, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled, in Warren v. District of Columbia, that police do not have a duty to protect individuals, placing the duty of protection with the person in the mirror. To do that, you may use a semiautomatic rifle with a 30-round magazine because your right is not to be infringed. Criminals benefit from gun-control laws because they disarm their victims.

John Dixon
Kernersville

I was deeply touched by the Counterpoint column from Moussa Issifou ("An oppressed country cries for help," Feb. 25). His plea for help for Togo is a plea we hear often in a corrupt and evil world.

How could we have helped in Rwanda when the United Nations commander in charge could not get troops or operable equipment to deter the slaughter? He had a direct line to the U.N. chief and was ignored, probably because of bureaucratic ineptness and a lack of will to save human lives ("Shake Hands With The Devil, The Failure of Humanity in Rwanda," by Lt. Gen. Romeo Dallaire).

Unless a country is of strategic or economic importance, the United States turns its head and pretends not to know. In order to have a democracy, one must be a participant, not an observer. Too many Americans don't participate in their own democracy. Why hasn't our president asked us to make sacrifices to lower our oil consumption and dependence on foreign oil? This would connect many Americans to the war effort, from which many feel estranged. Democracies can be difficult to build and keep.

Mr. Issifou, you have taken the first step. Now the rest is up to you.

Patricia Murphy
Greensboro

Are you hot? Are you cold? Do your teeth hurt? Well, it's George Bush's fault.

Recently, a writer laments the shifting channels and shoaling of North Carolina's coastal waters. Why, some of the inlets are not easily navigable at low tides. And it's Bush's fault, he barks, for deferring funds from the Army Corps of Engineers to dredge our shoals, instead fighting this silly war in Iraq.

As a former yacht owner, I know North Carolina indeed has the most unreliable, yet most beautiful, coastal waters in America. But if this very unhappy man must file the nicks from his little outboard propeller or replace a fishing lure for one he lost on a snag, the world's newest democracy thanks him from the bottom of their hearts for his deep sacrifice.

J. Michael Williams
Summerfield

Whatever the Clean Air Act may mean to other states, for North Carolina it will be a step backward in our fight to control air pollutants. Our legislature has passed laws that will help eliminate well-known air pollutants (such as sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxide, ozone) as well as decrease mercury in fish and people expeditiously.

If the Clean Air Act overrides North Carolina's regulations with less-stringent national regulations, our progress is threatened. Our local producers of pollutants will be able to slow their decreases, and our attorney general will lose leverage to urge nearby states to control their pollutants that taint our air space.

At this time, Triad air pollution levels are triggering the institution of restrictions, including higher-priced gasoline choices. Please encourage Sen. Dole to join Sen. Burr in his belief that supporting this Clean Air Act does not protect North Carolinians.

Teresa Sue Bratton, M.D.
Greensboro
The writer is a pediatric allergist.

Kudos to Mike Easley. Increase taxes to raise revenue. A truly innovative concept.

He might consider a tax on drugs for the elderly and a tax on baby food. Both could easily be justified. A drug tax would keep suspect drugs from getting into the hands of our seniors. The tax on baby food would help curb America's obesity problem. As a spinoff on the drug tax, reducing the number of people on Social Security would resolve that problem. I dare say enough revenue could be generated to further decrease the tax rate on the wealthy.

Last but not least, don't overlook another "temporary" increase in the sales tax.

James Von Becknell
Gibsonville

Amazing. Skip "It's always racism" Alston finally retracted an accusation of racism -- sort of. He went from blaming the whole city staff to "mainly some of the (city) housing department." They were "trying to attack a successful black leader" (read Alston) and "prevent a black-operated ..." etc.

With Skip, it is always racism; never, ever does it result from his or another black person's decisions. But things are improving somewhat; for a change, he said "black" instead of "African American." Perhaps it will continue and he will start thinking before he opens his mouth and yells "racism" again, which has gotten very, very old.

Robert Powell
Greensboro

In Jim Melvin's letter (Feb. 28), it was nice to hear that VF Corp. is doing well in a competitive market and hence making a contribution to Greensboro, along with several other major corporations.

However, Action Greensboro had nothing to do with VF relocating its headquarters here. Its chairman was from here and wanted to return. Sorry, Jim. Nice try.

As we all now know, Action Greensboro was founded to be a cheerleader for a new stadium and only that. Its attempt to meld it into the Chamber of Commerce is proof. And in keeping with Melvin's penchant for cheap, we did not get a free ballpark, will not get a free park with water downtown, and if he thinks Bellemeade Village will be free, he's out of touch.

The vacillating pols he's influenced recently are tax-happy, so his schemes once again will come out of our collective pocket. Does he have any ideas he can afford?

Bob Guertin
Greensboro

As a developer, I feel somewhat guilty of causing overcrowding in our school system. I am 100 percent in favor of charging impact fees to educate our children and provide housing for them. We all must recognize that this is becoming a major problem within Davidson County, and this issue must be addressed.

I commend the efforts of our commissioners for addressing this problem, and I feel that each citizen of Davidson County should give 100 percent support to our commissioners for their endeavor.

I realize sometimes decisions must be made that are not always politically popular. But the commissioners are doing the right thing.

George Sowers
Arcadia

If you wanted to renovate your house, would you hire someone whose only qualifications were running a soup kitchen and hot dog stand? And if you did hire them, wouldn't you ask once in a while what they were spending your money on? (Audit.) If your home had no electricity and no heat, would your first priority be to put up a wrought-iron fence?

We continually see our tax dollars awarded to people for mindless, endless projects that don't amount to squat, and we have no idea who got the money. (Audit.) All of these projects should be supervised, not by a yearly report of what the participants say is being accomplished, but by a weekly, or at least monthly, inspection of the project and a full audit of the expenses. Otherwise, we will continue to have substandard projects and thousands of dollars disappearing. (Audit.)

We must insist that anything that is financed with tax dollars must be put under the careful watch of an oversight committee with the authority to veto any expenditures not deemed in the best interest of the taxpaying public. (Audit.) If they cannot justify their expenditures, they should be indicted. (Audit.)

Bob Carter
Greensboro

When are the people of Guilford County going to have enough of Skip Alston? There is a man accusing people in Guilford County of being racist who is more racist than anyone he accuses.

Wake up, make a call and send him on his way.

Richard H. Vanderford
Siler City

The great tragedy is that St. James Homes II might have ended up benefiting fellow human beings in our community, but instead too much money appears to have been flushed down the toilet.

My ears ache from the echoes of Project Homestead and too many other local projects.

My mind drifts back to high school when some friends and I stumbled upon Richard Pryor's movie, "Which Way Is Up?"

I remember Pryor portraying multiple characters, including the main character who rose from very modest beginnings to a position of political power and influence.

This character began his rise with the best of intentions, probably just like many local leaders, but just like too many of them, he fell victim to his own greed and corruption.

I have not seen that movie in a long time, but as I follow local events, I feel as if some local leaders are auditioning for that main role in a remake of that timeless comedy.

The movie's title asks a timely, provocative question well worth each of us asking ourselves: Which way is up?

Sadly, those who probably feel most self-assured that they have the answer are actually most guilty of posture-filled cluelessness.

Seymour Hardy Floyd
Greensboro

I just had to make a comment on the poorly managed ticket sales Feb. 19 for the Florida Marlins-Greensboro Grasshoppers game to be played April 3.

Knowing that there were only 500 box seats still available (due to season-ticket holder sales) for the game, why didn't management make that fact known to the general public? We waited in line for eight hours and didn't even get close to getting tickets. We are avid baseball fans and now, due to the bad taste in our gullets, we don't plan on attending any of the Grasshoppers' games.

For a new venture with a new stadium and a new team, you would think they would have better PR. Not a good sign for a new season, if you ask me.

Judi Brinegar
Ramseur

Bob Kelly (letter, Feb. 25) may be an engineer, but he is no geologist. The fossilized fish found on tops of mountains are explained by plate tectonics, the same processes that caused the earthquake and resulting tsunami on Dec. 26. Simon Lamb, a geologist from Oxford University, wonderfully explains plate tectonics and mountain building in his book, "The Devil in the Mountain" (the local miners' explanation for the earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in the Andes region). There is no evidence in the geological record of a single worldwide flood.

Kelly is correct that scientists cannot repeat the creation of the earth and all that has since happened, but scientists from many fields (astronomers, physicists, geologists, oceanographers, chemists, biologists, geneticists, etc.) contribute evidence that supports the theory of evolution. The age of the earth has been determined by tests that are reproducible, and there are transitional fossils. Mainstream scientists may argue about some of the details, but they do not deny evolution itself. These scientists may also believe in God, because, contrary to what the creationists would have you think, belief in God is not dependent on a person's rejecting scientific evidence.

Elizabeth Gratzek
Greensboro

Well, well. Isn't it interesting that King George II was so worried about America's young children finding out that he tried marijuana (per the latest news releases)? Such an irrational deduction reveals that he fails miserably the basic test of a courageous person by not taking the easy responsibility for such a small illegal action. Just like when he hid behind his daddy's friends when his country asked him to be a man. Boy, "Poppy," you must be proud.

He continually hides behind what the Christian calls sins of omission; therefore, he is not only a liar, he is also a coward. It is easy to see why he wept at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, for he truly sees what he never was and never will be.

It is apparent that he has no similar high concern for the death and mayhem (euphemized as collateral damage) of innocent children in Iraq whose destruction he set in motion by his warped sense of vainglory and in the philosophic reductionism of "the greater good for the greater number."

Pity the fool and his followers who accept a certain quantity of their fellow humans as nothing more than expendable garbage, especially when it never had to happen.

Paul Metzger
Oak Ridge

Despite the railing of the anti-war crowd, sane people understand that our enemies do not have a normal conscience. It is with regret that our president must take the war on terror to the terrorists wherever they are.

It is regrettable that our young Americans must make the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom and protect our country, but it has been that way since 1776. Since our country was founded, 1.2 million have given the extreme sacrifice.

The goal of our enemy is to impose their belief system on all of us. If we do not agree with them, they feel that their God requires them to murder us in the most terrible way imaginable. This includes all the old ways of history and brand-new ways of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.

Our goal is exactly the opposite. As explained by President Bush, our goal is liberty and freedom. We want to share our democracy with others in the world. There is no perfect system, and it has been said that our system is the worst system you could have, except everything else.

Billy F. Hammack
Greensboro

As a mother of a soon-to-be freshman at Southeast High School, I felt the need to make a plea to all the Southeast High students and all teen drivers who may read this.

A great tragedy hit our area this past weekend. Two precious lives were taken way too soon, and two lives have been changed forever.

As a parent, the worst nightmare there can be is to have your phone ring in the middle of the night or someone come to your door to deliver news that your child has been involved in an accident. Four nightmares took place early Sunday morning.

My plea to the young drivers of today is to please remember that driving should be a privilege, not a nightmare. My heart aches for the families involved. Please don't let their deaths be in vain.

Take this as a warning and drive with caution.

Cynthia Baker
Greensboro

I'm a Christian, and I love Christ. I'm also a lesbian -- who would have guessed when I was a child? -- also a gift of God.

This morning, as I meditated on Matthew 7:15-23, it struck me that, indeed, we will be known by our fruits. As Christians, do we love those who are most in need of love, those who are most stigmatized by laws and mores?

Do we work to educate ourselves where we are fearful or ignorant? Do we actively seek to understand?

Perhaps the "new world" Christ referred to is simply one person after another reaching out across the great divide.

Kathryn H. Larson
Greensboro

In his letter (Feb. 25), Matthew Tilley stated he wanted to take responsibility for his own future and to manage his Social Security investment. In the program proposed by President Bush, Matthew thinks he will have a guaranteed return, but he will not.

Matthew needs to realize that the government has already provided means for taxpayers to invest their money to provide retirement income. Some of the ways are to invest in 401(k) plans, traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs.

He should also realize that Social Security was designed as a supplement to other retirement plans and not to be used as total retirement income.

Robert A. Blaylock
Jamestown

Dr. Terry Grier's attempt to redirect Title 1 funds is yet another indication that our superintendent cares more about his resume than our children. To propose the reallocation of funds away from four schools that desperately need them in order to avoid sanctions is wrong; no one can justify not helping the schools that are struggling the most. To allow these schools to continue to receive federal funds requires Dr. Grier to be held responsible for his failures as superintendent; he will not allow that to happen.

If he is successful, parents who have children in these schools will not be able to use a federal provision that would allow them to "opt out" of a non performing school. If a school is not performing, your child is stuck. The sanctions are there for a reason; failure to perform should be dealt with, not covered up.

Dr. Grier will approach the county commissioners to replace the funds he is taking away; in the end, every taxpayer in Guilford County will literally pay for his "shell game" to hide the problems his administration has caused. Contact your school board members and your county commissioners; they have the power to stop him.

Jeff Peeler
High Point

I was bitten by the photography bug as a teenager here in Greensboro but after school moved to New York City. The Big Apple may have a lot of things we don't, but Carolina Camera Center outshone every New York camera store.

For over 20 years, I would call or visit Carolina Camera Center for all my photographic needs, because the Rauches' service was better than anywhere I have ever been. Besides being friendly, they remembered their customers' needs, asked to look at their pictures, made practical suggestions as to equipment, shared tips, researched products for customers, refused to sell a product they thought wouldn't meet your needs and treated every amateur customer with the same care as a professional photographer.

They wanted you to take great pictures and encouraged you all the way, becoming genuinely excited if you won an award from a photography contest.

They made true believers of us all, and I, for one, now back home, find it hard to imagine a Greensboro without them. Thank you, Carolina Camera, for so much.

Stephanie Benson
Summerfield

If a person dies from lung cancer, I have an idea that his death is included in the "statistics" of a smoking casualty. Yet I feel sure that there are many victims whose death was not smoking-related.

No one will ever convince me that cigarettes cause as much harm as alcohol. Add up the traffic deaths, broken families, robberies to feed the habit, and you come up with a monster. You never hear about adding tax to whiskey or restricting advertising. Now race cars are being named after brands of whiskey and exposed to millions and millions of adults and teenagers.

If any of our representatives have the nerve, they should go after this other killer.

Tommy Cox
Greensboro

Dick Wharton's letter (Feb. 24) correctly questions the curriculum in our public schools. My great-great-great grandfather donated an acre of land in Rockingham County during the 19th century for the first public school in the state. He is probably spinning in his grave given the state of public "education" in this country. Instead of receiving an "education," children receive an indoctrination.

The "social engineering" has resulted in the mess that we see now. The ignorance of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights is a case in point.

I keep hearing people refer to our government as a "democracy." The word "democracy" doesn't appear a single time in our Constitution. Our Constitution guarantees a republican form of government. In a republic, everyone has lawful, inalienable rights. A democracy is mob rule -- two wolves and a sheep voting on what's for dinner.

It's time for Americans to study the Constitution and the reasoning behind its formation. It was not perfect, but it was a first in the history of mankind. It's time that we the people demand that our elected officials adhere to their oaths of office and uphold the Constitution.

If we don't, we'll get what we deserve.

Dan Groome
Greensboro

David Brooks' op-ed piece, "Why not here?" [registration required] suggests that our $200 billion war in Iraq may be stimulating hopes for democracy around the world. He quotes Thomas Kuhn's work on scientific change, suggesting that it comes not "gradually" but in "raw and jagged paradigm shifts."

I have to agree that Iraq has been raw and jagged: tens of thousands of dead, over 100,000 severely wounded.

As I recall, the Kurds of northern Iraq were already developing a peaceful democracy before the war. Brooks and his counterparts in the White House argue that this change was too gradual and not raw enough. Hence, they showcased the 21st century equivalent of the French Revolution, with suicide bombs standing in for the guillotine.

Brooks sees democracy spreading. The rest of the world sees suicide bombing and violence spreading. "Why not here?" may mean "democracy elsewhere" to Mr. Brooks. But to many of us watching the body count, we wonder if "Why not here?" really means "why not preemptive payback, Middle East style: death of a society by a thousand cuts".

Why not understand "why here on Sept. 11?" before we swagger off half-cocked?

Kurt Lauenstein
Greensboro

John Carlisle (article, "Misuse of dues speeds fall of unions," Feb. 27) attempts to rationalize the decline in union membership to the resentment of what he claims is "misuse of members' dues for political activism and lack of financial accountability." This is just another attempt of right-wing bashing of unions. The donation of union dues to politicians is against the law.

What Carlisle has a problem with is the fact that union members, such as myself, donate their own money to politicians and Political Action Committees who stand for economic justice and security in the workplace. Unions are allowed, under law, to use a small of amount of dues to educate their members on the views and positions of candidates and political parties. The real reason for the decline in union membership and the middle class is that the laws of this country allow outsourcing of jobs that pay a living wage to low-wage countries such as Mexico, China and India.

Steve Ebert
Kernersville

On Feb. 24, Sedgefield Elementary School teachers and students presented a black history program that closed in on Dr. Martin Luther King's dream that people must be judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. The multicultural performers from four ethnic groups shared black history before a packed gym of parents and friends.

Principal Joanne Brower was obviously moved as she delivered closing remarks that included a mention of an upcoming multicultural day celebrating all cultures represented at her school. She admonished all to connect with others and enrich our lives as a result of it, and to teach the children to love themselves and others as it is practiced at Sedgefield. "Grab the hand of your neighbor," she said, "and share love and caring to fulfill the dream as it should be."

As a part of the audience, I had just read Gary Moyer's exceptional "Faith Matters" column on teaching the children well for society's sake (Feb. 12). I couldn't help thinking that through cultural connections such as this, we can learn to respect others not only for personal enrichment but the strengthening of our society.
Hats off to Dr. Brower, staff and students for a lesson well taught.

Iris Troxler
Greensboro

Thank you for your editorial "Another tiny life lost" (March. 2). You remind us how much a community mourns the senseless tragedy of a newborn who is killed or left to die by a panicked, overwhelmed woman.

Everyone needs to understand North Carolina's Safe Surrender Law and how it can prevent these tragic deaths. The Web site www.safesurrender.net explains the North Carolina law and provides public outreach materials that anyone can post in their community to ensure women who may be hiding a pregnancy have the information they need. Please help spread the word about Safe Surrender.

Lois Nilsen
Raleigh

The writer is with the Office of Public Affairs, N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.

It's no surprise to any High Point resident that Guilford County Schools Superintendent Terry Grier is going to have to do another shuffle to "improve" schools. He made a promise to parents to improve these Title I schools and hasn't.

He made a promise by requesting federal taxpayer money that he would follow the rules for No Child Left Behind, yet he's now pulling another duck and cover.

We in High Point have been forced to give this man the opportunity to experiment with our kids' futures with a ridiculous "Choice Plan," yet why is he so unwilling to give the federal government's NCLB plan a chance? He hasn't even tried it yet.

I trust the government a whole lot more at this point than I do Grier's poor leadership and the school board's lack of good sense. It stuns me this man still has a job.

Then again, maybe all of Guilford County will be given equal opportunity to participate in the "Choice Plan" in order to absorb the poor-performing socioeconomically challenged kids of the county -- because the problem still is not getting better, it's getting worse.

Karly Morris
Jamestown

A recent letter suggested that "the public must make responsible choices and not allow the government to do it for us." I suggest that banning smoking from public places, including restaurants, is a responsible choice and that such regulation would be welcome.

The argument that smokers' rights would be "infringed upon" is an old, tired line of reasoning. The health hazards are well documented, and public safety is a principal role of state governments.

Suggesting that restaurant owners have complete authority over their establishments is ludicrous. They are regulated for food quality, sanitation and alcohol sales.

I've lived in states where smoking is banned from bars and restaurants, and they actually showed an increase in patronage. Suggesting that it is my choice not to eat at a restaurant to avoid second-hand smoke seems like a solid line of reasoning, but nonsmokers shouldn't have to make that choice. It may not happen this year, but eventually this law will pass in North Carolina, and I believe the majority will support it.

I would also support legislation banning cell phone use in cars without a hands-free device.

Why? Because it would protect the public, again an important role of government.

Peter Allen
Greensboro

In reply to Judy Stierand's letter (March 2) calling for the killing of street cats because they may carry bird flu, her fears are groundless. I wondered how long it would take somebody to point the finger at feral cats after the Associated Press article was printed.
The cats that developed bird flu were laboratory cats introduced to the virus experimentally. Some cats then passed it to others in the experiment. This only showed mammal-to-mammal transmission is possible, which was not known before. There has been no case of cat-to-human transmission.

In real street life, a cat that became infected after eating an infected bird would hide out and quickly die. Humans do not eat cats, so we would be safe. Cats living in the homes of human Asian flu victims were found to be healthy.

To quote Michael Lei, a University of Southern California microbiology professor, "If transmission occurred easily, we should have seen widespread flu infection in cats in the Asian flu epidemic arise in the past few years. This did not happen."

We won't ever destroy every disease-carrying vector, so as always, the way to fight illness is strengthening our individual health and immunity.

Linda East
Greensboro

Having lived in Cocoa Beach for more than 40 years, I can confirm that the article about our fair city, "Signs of Recovery," (Steppin' Out section, Feb. 27) painted a very realistic picture of a great place to visit.

That said, the author forgot to mention one significant point. Cocoa Beach's normal population is 12,000 but during this time of year it doubles because of the influx of "snowbirds." As a result, traffic congestion is terrible, parking space is at a premium, checkout lines are long, etc.

Visitors are welcome anytime, but your best bet would be to delay until May when the "birds" are gone -- but wait, that's when we'll be inundated with folks here to watch the shuttle launch so you better wait till June -- but wait, that's the beginning of hurricane season so you better wait till that threat ends in November -- but wait, that's when the snowbirds start arriving so...

As Paul Harvey says: "And now you know the rest of the story," but come on down anyway.

H. S. Hardcastle
Cocoa Beach, Fla.

How can we achieve true equality in this country if we still separate everyone by race on all forms we fill out? We cannot ask about religion (or at least the Census Bureau cannot). Why are we allowed to ask about race? From now on, whenever asked about race, I will mark "other" and reply "human."

I can thank someone from another country for opening my eyes to such a simple step in the continuing battle for true equality. In her country, no one was questioned about their race and therefore, no one considered it an issue. Perhaps if we categorized people based on height, weight, hair or eye color we would see how ridiculous such groupings are. Oh, pardon me, didn't someone already try to say blond, blue-eyed people were superior?

Susan Smoot
McLeansville

On Feb. 27, around 11 a.m., I was standing in my driveway with family when I witnessed a shooting. First, I heard two shots, and when I looked in that direction there was a third shot. I saw a dog rolling on the road, yelping in pain.

I was in shock; I told my wife to call 911. The dog ran off, the police came. I drove around until I found the dog. It was a beautiful tan dog about a year old. It was crouched in a back yard at the fence. Our eyes met. I saw the blood on its shoulder. It was shaking, afraid and in pain.

Why would someone try to take the life of another creature?

The dog is alive after it was rescued and taken to the vet. It's now at the Guilford Animal Shelter waiting for someone to claim or adopt it. I did what I could to save him.

Can someone help me finish the job and give him a good home?

Richard Small
Greensboro

Guilford County's air is some of the dirtiest in the nation, with sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and soot from coal-burning power plants, both in North Carolina and 13 upwind states, as a major contributor to the problem.

As reported in the News & Record Feb. 18, Attorney General Roy Cooper has successfully challenged the EPA to come up with a plan to crack down on out-of-state polluters threatening the health of North Carolina's citizens.

This is good news for pediatricians like me and the 125,000 North Carolina children with asthma we care for. But if the Bush administration pushes its deceptively titled "Clear Skies" Act through Congress, Cooper's efforts will be wasted and North Carolina's right to challenge polluters in surrounding states to clean up their mess will be forfeited. Sen. Burr has already publicly voiced his opposition to the President's "Dirty Skies" plan. At this writing, Sen. Dole has yet to join him.

Please call Sen. Burr's office in Winston-Salem (800-685-8916) and Sen. Dole's office in Raleigh (919-856-4630), and ask them to protect the health of people in the state they represent by firmly opposing the "Clear Skies" initiative.

Deborah Leiner Fields
Greensboro

Consider the following about President Bush as he begins a second term:

• As a Republican, he's supposed to be a watchdog for excessive spending, but what does the record show? He inherited a budget surplus and in few short years has turned that surplus into record deficits. A fiscal conservative? Hardly.
  
• He has touted himself as a compassionate conservative, but his proposed budget calls for cuts in Medicaid (provides health care to poor adults and children), food stamps, veterans benefits, administration for children and families, the administration on aging, Department of Housing and Urban Development (Section 8, which helps low-income families pay rent) -- just to mention a few.

Just how much "compassion" will the poor and the aged have to endure?
And just how much deeper in debt will this country be with four more years of this "fiscal conservative" president?

The president won't stand for election again, but midterm elections for 435 members of Congress and one-third of our U.S. senators will be held next year. I urge you to look carefully at the records of those running and cast your votes thoughtfully and carefully.

Bob Kollar
Greensboro

After five months of messing around, equivocating and delaying, Gov. Easley and our lawmakers pass a bill designating $250 million for relief for thousands of North Carolina taxpayers devastated by a hurricane.

After slobbering over and pandering to a large public company's extortion squad, they take five minutes to pass a company-specific piece of legislation (no objections tolerated) donating $250 million for a $100 million assembly plant (not counting free dry cleaning, gas, cars, golf, etc., plus no taxes — "We should be happy with no revenues"), which the company was going to build somewhere in the general area anyway.

Now we need to raise the cigarette tax and maintain our "leadership role" in corporate and personal income tax and sales tax. And of course, we gotta get that lottery. There's something a tad wrong with this picture.

H.T. Bobo
Gibsonville

This is in response to the ALE raid recently that broke up a Texas Hold 'em poker tournament at Ham's on High Point Road.

I want to express how much safer I feel now that they have broken up this harmless game where no money was at stake. Granted, they were playing for a trip to Las Vegas, but if we are going to seriously crack down on games of chance in North Carolina, what about raffles, radio station contests, bingo parlors, etc.?

It just amazes me that our government deems some things important while it lets more serious issues fall to the wayside. I, for one, could think of about a hundred better ways for my tax money to be spent.

I am not alone in this issue. Just needed to get that off of my chest. Now I can sleep better knowing that my streets are safe from illegal gambling where no money was involved. Absolutely ridiculous!

James Cooper
Asheboro

With the impending birth of a new high school in the northern part of the county, I would like to suggest that we take a look at those from our area who have contributed their lives and careers to outstanding service to their fellow man.

I would propose naming our new school after Edward R. Murrow. Murrow, the legendary newsman, received five Peabody Awards for journalistic excellence. In addition, he also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest honor the president of the United States can bestow upon a civilian. Murrow was also "knighted" by Queen Elizabeth for outstanding service to the British people.

There are several good names that could be chosen; however, none is more fitting than Edward R. Murrow.

David F. Gearhart
Greensboro

Regarding your editorial on testing students for drugs (March 5):

Involvement in after-school activities like sports has been shown to reduce drug use. They keep kids busy during the hours they are most likely to get into trouble.

Forcing students to undergo degrading urine tests as a prerequisite will only discourage participation. Drug testing also may compel marijuana users to switch to harder drugs to avoid testing positive.

Despite the short-lived high it creates, marijuana is the only illegal drug that stays in the human body long enough to make urinalysis a deterrent. A student who takes methamphetamine, ecstasy or OxyContin on Friday night likely will test clean on Monday.

If you think students don't know this, think again.

Anyone capable of running an Internet search can find out how to thwart a drug test. The most commonly abused drug and the one most closely associated with violent behavior is almost impossible to detect with urinalysis. That drug is alcohol, and it takes far more student lives every year than all illegal drugs combined.

Instead of wasting money on counterproductive drug tests, schools should invest in reality-based drug education.

Robert Sharpe
Washington
The writer is a policy analyst, Common Sense for Drug Policy.

The Greensboro Truth and Reconciliation Commission dialogue at the Central Library Feb. 24 demonstrated how this sometimes-misunderstood initiative can bring us together as a stronger community. Think about what you might contribute to it.

TRC commissioners formed a panel but made it clear that they'd come to listen, not to speak. Some who attended have memories of Nov. 3, 1979, when Ku Klux Klan members and neo-Nazis fired shots into a crowd at an anti-Klan rally. Five people were killed and 10 were wounded.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's stated mission is to "seek healing transformation for the community through truth-telling, reconciliation and strengthening of trust." If we skate along on a surface of civility, ignoring things that continue to divide us, we won't find trust, nor can we build community with integrity.

The Feb. 5 News & Record quotes Mayor Keith Holliday as saying, "The fact is, we're a family. And when a member of the family hurts, we all hurt."

Nov. 3, 1979, is a part of our family history.

The TRC commissioners are proceeding with intelligence, courage, patience and spirituality. We can contact them at 275-6462 or www.greensborotrc.org.

Whitney Grove Vanderwerff
Greensboro

Lorraine Ahearn's column on lawyer Manlin Chee ("Manlin Chee: Journey to the Land of the Free," March 6) was too sympathetic and completely one-sided. Lawyer Chee admitted to arranging a marriage because she was caught red-handed.

Think about how many illegal marriages Chee arranged before she was caught and the potential harm to the United States it could have caused. The fake marriages were presented in the News & Record article under the ruse of social goodness, but Chee gained financially at their expense.

Otherwise, how could she at one time have afforded law offices in Charlotte, Greensboro and Wilmington?

Bottom line: There's a right way to become a citizen and a wrong way to become richer by preying on immigrants' need for legal assistance.

Incidentally, so you know the source of these words, I have been married to the same Brazilian "bride" (who pledged sincere allegiance to America) for 17 years now and I'm proud to say we did it the right way.

Let's hope other misguided immigration lawyers learn from Chee's mistakes.

Jennings Oakley
Greensboro

Regarding the front-page article, "Split court bans teen executions" March 2:

The U.S. Supreme Court justices ruled, correctly, I believe, that executing juveniles violates the Eighth Amendment's ban on "cruel and unusual punishment."

Also, I believe a truly civilized nation would ban capital punishment for all people, whether they are children or adults, mentally retarded or not. For it is a barbaric practice to shave anyone's head, strap the person in a chair, attach metal electrodes and jolt the individual with electricity until he or she dies.

Or to strap a person to a gurney, insert a needle in an arm and "humanely" kill a human being.

There is no humane way for the state to kill people because the act itself reduces society to the level of killers. DNA technology reminds us that numbers of death-row prisoners were innocent, and others not affected by the technology also may be. I recall a statement by Mahatma Gandhi: "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind."

And I hope to see the day when a majority of our Supreme Court justices rule that the death penalty, in any form, is unconstitutional.

Bill Burnett
Greensboro

Shame, shame, shame. Have you no journalism ethics? How could you print that horrific article, "Pregnant woman sells marketing rights to birth" (Feb. 28)? Perhaps you are begging for reader backlash. If so, you succeeded.

You have placed yourself on a level of smut between Jerry Springer and Michael Moore. Quoting one of your readers, "You have discharged your brains."

Maxine Leister
Greensboro

Judy Stierand (letter, March 2, "Cats pose a threat") imagines a "catastrophe" resulting from the transmission of bird flu from poultry to cats to people. She makes an alarmist claim.

In 2004, a Dutch veterinary pathologist named Thijis Kuiken published research suggesting that, in a scientifically controlled setting, poultry infected with bird flu can infect cats, and that those cats, within the same controlled setting, may infect other cats.

The study did not prove that cats play a role in transmitting the virus to humans. Kuiken has even admitted that, for complicated reasons, pathogens introduced in a lab often have more serious effects than those in a natural environment. In a natural setting, that is, Kuiken's cats may not have gotten sick. Ian Jones, a British animal and microbial sciences professor, says Kuiken's lab is "a long way from the natural situation."

Outside of the lab, the actual threat of bird flu to cats is small and unsubstantiated.

Instead of attacking homeless cats and frightening us about yet another supposed way to get sick and die, Stierand should put her energies and funds toward spay/neuter education. We should support nonprofits that humanely trap and sterilize feral cats.

Jennifer McCollum
Greensboro

Please get your facts straight before you publish the news.

I feel sorry for the families of the teenagers involved in the fatal accident on Blakeshire Road.

Having almost lost my child, I know that these families were filled with enough grief without you publishing false stories about their children.

Get your act together.

Cindy Webster
Greensboro

Editor's note: The report was based on incorrect information provided by the Highway Patrol. Editor John Robinson has posted a detailed explanation of the paper's handling of that story on his blog at http://blog.news-record.com/staff/jrblog/archives/2005/03/the_course_info.html

Regarding Giles Lambertson's column, "North Carolina should lower barriers to practice law" (Feb. 27) [not posted], I can only register astonishment. Clearly, Lambertson knows there is a significant number of licensing boards relative to a variety of occupations and professions. He must have some ax to grind regarding lawyers' situation, judging from his tunnel vision.

I would not suggest that Lambertson take out his own appendix, perform dental surgery on himself, or other similar activities. There are significant reasons why lawyers need to be licensed only after passing rigorous educational and testing requirements. As a member of the N.C. State Bar Council, which regulates the practice of law, I can vouch for the fact that, notwithstanding the licensing and testing requirements, as in all occupations and professions, things can go wrong, intentionally or unintentionally.

I have to ask whether Lambertson has some interest in Thomas B. Griffith, or perhaps he is a devotee of the Andrew Jackson theory of democracy that every man is his own expert. I disagree strenuously with Lambertson's thesis.

G.S. Crihfield
Greensboro

Over the past months, and even years, the Guilford County school system has been trying desperately to increase funds. However, I believe that if the schools are looking for more assets, the board should cut down on expenses.

I go to Southwest High School and have noticed that the schools are wasting money on utilities. For example, all county faculty have been given explicit instructions to leave their computers on overnight, over weekends, and even over breaks, just in case the county wants to perform a system upgrade. With every classroom having one computer, and many labs full of computers, a massive amount of electricity is wasted.

Yet another issue is the school's heating and cooling. The school's notorious heating has students wearing shorts in the winter and sweatshirts in the summer. Are these extremes wasteful? There are many more utility issues, but take these two and multiply them by every school. How much money is used for utilities? How much can be saved? And most importantly, why is the school board looking for more money while it can find it within its own utility budget?

Ryan Luibrand
Jamestown

Why aren't there more jobs for the poor people?

What can be done about providing more jobs for people without a college degree or even a high school diploma? (Why do you need a high school diploma to flip burgers?) What training options are available for poor people? What about free after-school programs for kids while parents are in training or working? This also applies to summertime because kids need supervised care. We need more activities for kids that are free all year long, mostly in summer when they're not in school. City transportation also needs to be improved so we don't wait too long.

Dan DeGooyer
Sharon Glover
Darcella Johnson
Greensboro
DeGooyer is a professor at UNCG. Glover and Johnson are participants in a UNCG research project examining relationships between newspaper readership and community participation.

I am writing in deep concern for our community. Children are being abused by their parents. These are people who should love them the most. I am not writing to accuse people of abusing their children but to express the importance of the responsibility that we have in recognizing and reporting abuse.

Child abuse is not often discussed at the dinner table with our families or on a lunch break with fellow employees. It is a subject that we often ignore or do not understand due to the lack of education or resources on child abuse. Police officers, teachers and doctors have the responsibility to report abuse, but so do we as citizens.

If we turn our heads and look the other way, a child's only hope may be lost. Whether we are neighbors, friends or acquaintances, we may be able to save a child's life. Report abuse to appropriate authorities. It is our right and our duty.

Jenna Harris
Liberty

Thousands have died for our freedom. Thousands fought and survived while others take their freedom for granted, protest and march for a different cause.

The majority elected a leader, and the minority tries to manipulate our laws. Our great protector, the media, think our forefathers gave them the right to manipulate it all. Our elected officials, after taking the oath of office, are bitter and ugly. They try to divide us for their own selfish cause, while the world watches for the bubble to burst and America to fall.

If we keep our freedom, thousands more will have to die. This is the price we have to pay, in honor of those and their families that gave us the freedom we have today.

God bless them all.

Robert D. Paschal
Reidsville

I was very concerned with the use of the term "drunk" in the headline on March 6 concerning the tragic accident involving four teenagers. Also the page A4 jump head was "alcohol" in bold letters.

Both headlines, at first glance, tend to indicate that the young driver may have consumed alcohol but was not legally drunk. A more reasonable headline would have been "alcohol or drugs not a factor in fatal accident." Apparently speed and driver inexperience were responsible. The young man will have enough to overcome without the News & Record creating sensational headlines.

Buz Ward
Gibsonville

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Jack Cipriani

In response to "Misuse of dues speeds fall of unions" by John Carlisle of the National Legal and Policy Center (Ideas, Feb. 27) [not posted]:

One of the central truths of propaganda is that repeating it long enough will make it true. Ultraconservative snake-oil salesmen bank on this fact with their misrepresentations of organized labor. To hear the corporately backed "nonpartisan" groups tell it, the demise of union political power stems from the unions themselves. That snake oil may sound good the first time you hear it, but just a few drops do much more harm than good.

There is no arguing the fact that union enrollment is at an all-time low. This is the natural result of playing on an unlevel field. Corporations routinely sidestep U.S. labor law by interfering with workers' legal right to organize a union. When workers do choose to have a union election, corporations can use delay tactics almost indefinitely. These are extraordinary steps to avoid granting workers a legally binding contract.

Corporate hardball with workers' rights is only one reason for low union enrollment. For more than a decade, the United States has entered into unfair trade deals with nations that don't share our standards for wages and workers' rights.

Corporations are free to chase the cheapest labor as far as they can into the Third World. In North Carolina, we've lost more than 200,000 textile and furniture jobs to unfair trade. How many more do we have to lose before we demand more power and better treatment for our workers?

Despite the challenges that face the labor movement, our members are in a much stronger position than their non-union counterparts. Our contracts feature wages that are consistently higher and benefits that are consistently better than what is paid by corporations that don't have to bargain fairly. Unions put pressure on non-union companies to keep up with our wages and benefits. The less unionization that exists, the worse conditions are for all workers.

What the labor movement may lack in real numbers is made up by maximizing our political power. Were it not for the labor movement, many workers would have no voice at all in the legislative process. Contrary to what the propaganda says, members of my union, the Teamsters, have a choice whether to contribute to our political action committee. Yet for all our members' political involvement, we are still heavily outspent by Big Business.

American workers need something that the corporate bosses and the politicians they align with don't want to give -- stronger laws to protect workers' rights.

The writer lives in Summerfield and is national vice president of the AFL-CIO.

The question before the Supreme Court was very straightforward, did the death sentence imposed on Christopher Simmons (Roper v Simmons) violate the 8th Amendment to the Constitution?

Simmons, who was 17 years old at the time, bragged that he was going to murder someone, describing in detail how he would commit the crime, and "get away with it," because he was a minor.

A few hours later, Simmons and his accomplice broke into the home of Shirley Cook. Cook was wrapped in duct tape, her head was covered with a towel, and her legs and hands were tied with electrical wire.

Then he drove her to a bridge and threw her into the water, where helpless, she drowned.

Did the death sentence of Simmons constitute "cruel and unusual" punishment?

No, the court was not concerned with whether being assaulted in your home, wrapped in a towel, duct tape and electrical wire and thrown off a bridge was "cruel and unusual "punishment. That is OK.

The court was only concerned with whether it was "cruel and unusual" to execute the 17-year-old murderer who committed the crime.

Donald Bernstein
Kernersville

It seems to me that the various bills proposed to pump up North Carolina driving license documentation create a perfect storm of alien abuse wherein post-9/11 hysteria meets economic xenophobia meets sniffy inchoate racist NIMBYism.

When leaders like state Sen. Phil Berger of Eden sense political opportunity to propose a "get-tough on anything that can't fight back" bill, we are assured of tortured legislation that nips away freedoms at the margin.

We contented current Carolinians will not feel a thing as we close the door on the next wave of our fellow immigrants. We can feel smug and safe as we motor past the road crews or follow our bellies out of the restaurants and produce stands which depend on workers who do not have driving licenses.

Donald E. Gillespie Jr.
Summerfield

I am writing to express some confusion regarding an announcement in the Feb. 27 paper concerning some "recruiting" being done at N.C. A&T. The brief announcement mentioned that Eleanor Gwynn, six faculty, two staff members, 10 N.C. Teaching Fellows, and two faculty from the School of Education will be spending the week of March 7-11 in Puerto Rico to "recruit students interested in performing arts majors."

As someone who has taught at N.C. A&T in the music department, it really surprised me that 21 people were needed to "recruit" in Puerto Rico. At the many colleges and universities I have taught at, it is customary to send one to three members for recruiting, and never staff members such as secretaries.

I question why N.C. A&T is sending such a large group to recruit in a commonwealth that would have to pay out-of-state tuition. I would really appreciate some clarification regarding this announcement since it is my taxes that appear to be used for this spring break "recruiting."

Thomas Swenson
Greensboro
The writer is assistant professor of music, Salem College.

For decades, Social Security has protected elderly disabled Americans from destitution. It provides guaranteed income that does not depend on the ups and downs of the stock market or the luck of individual investors.

Now, we are faced with a privatization scheme on the part of the Bush administration that would led to huge cuts in value of benefits that would compromise that income floor. People would be dependent on their luck in the stock market to make up the difference.

Those receiving disability and survivors benefits would have no way to close the gap. Social Security would be compromised in it main mission, protecting Americans from destitution in old age or due to disability.

There is no emergency. The system will be solvent for another 38-48 years if we do nothing.

After that, recipients would be faced with benefits cuts less than those projected for the Bush plan, again assuming we do nothing. Far less expensive and drastic remedies than privatization are available.

Barbara Council
Greensboro

It's with great relief that I've noticed a crackdown on the scourge of America that is Texas Hold 'Em poker. I can't tell you how long I've been afraid of those degenerate doctors, lawyers, students and such who use their disposable income in such reckless fashion.

I'm more at ease knowing that these menaces to society have been apprehended and will be charged to the full extent of the law. Now if only we could get those vile "50-50" rafflers and church "bingoers" under wraps, the state of North Carolina would be a better place to raise a family. All hail regulating morality.

Michael Cribbs
Greensboro

In reference to Edward Cone's recent column titled "When the news is literally the party line" (March 6), I was highly amused by the shock and surprise expressed by the writer.

Cone seemed to be genuinely devastated by a news organization "hewing close to the party line," "quoting administration (White House) press releases verbatim," and "trying to manipulate the news."

After reading the entire column, it seems the true source of Cone's displeasure is the fact that this particular news organization is conservative, not liberal.

In reality, the mainstream media have effectively served as the voice of the Democratic Party for many years. The really good news about this column is the mounting evidence showing how irrelevant the "mainstream media" have become.

With the advent of the Internet and the explosion of alternative news resources, American citizens no longer have to depend upon liberal network television and newspapers for the news. We have come to realize the bias of these news sources and this realization has led to the increasing success of conservative news productions. The reason for the explosion of these alternative sources stems directly from the left-wing bias that is so prevalent in mainstream media.

Ed Bonkemeyer
Greensboro

There was a tragic accident on Feb. 27 leaving two precious teenagers dead. Instead of waiting until you had properly investigated the accident, you chose to print articles in our newspapers with each one more sensational with huge headlines about alcohol being involved. These were very special young people who were not drinking (as noted in your final write-up). Empty diet Pepsi cans were strewn when the car wrecked and apparently were mistakenly identified as beer cans.

Your last article was too little-too late, as far as we are concerned. For sensationalism, you chose to try to destroy these young people without any regard for truth, or for them or their families and loved ones.

You said this investigation was still ongoing, but it didn't stop you from printing untruths about them. It is horrible enough to lose your child without such implications repeated again and again in our newspapers.

You should have a huge write up on your front page of our newspaper correcting your previous articles and apologizing to the parents of these special young people for having made the statement without reason. Your last article just was not enough.

Lou C. Pruitt
Greensboro

Editor's note: Editor John Robinson responds in his blog http://blog.news-record.com/staff/jrblog/archives/2005/03/the_course_info.html

Reps. Cary Allred and Nelson Cole should be commended for their efforts in trying to tighten up the way North Carolina drivers' licenses are issued. It is comforting to know that Allred and Cole have invested the time and effort in an attempt to correct what appears to be a serious problem.

On the other hand it is, indeed, disappointing to see that Rep. Mickey Michaux is content to do nothing and wait for the U.S. Congress to act. We need committee chairmen who are willing to do a little work now and then rather than wait for the federal government to take care of problems.

Your paper has done a good job of publicizing the license issue. Please continue keeping it in front of your readers. Hopefully, enough public concern will make Michaux and others like him do the right thing and move the Allred-Cole legislation forward.

Ken Corbett
Burlington

Regarding the March 6 article in your paper written by Andrew Brod:

I think Brod is a "liberal hellbent on preserving Social Security no matter what." Brod (and your editorial board in various other articles this year) have suggested that the program will remain solvent "until perhaps 2052." In his article, Brod states that these are the projections of the Social Security Administration and Congressional Budget Office.

I recently received from the Social Security Administration a statement of my account. Beside the figures stating my projected benefits is an asterisk with a disclaimer that says: "The law governing benefit amounts may change because, by 2042, the payroll taxes collected will be enough to pay only about 73 percent of scheduled benefits." Insinuating that the Social Security Administration is claiming program solvency beyond 2042 is simply either the result of ignorance of what the SSA itself is telling citizens or a deliberate attempt to deceive people in a "hellbent attempt to preserve Social Security no matter what."

You should look at the statement that comes with your own SSA statement. Once you know the truth yourselves, maybe you will stop spreading untrue statements.

George Russell
Whitsett

I begin by confessing that I'm all for entrepreneurs trying to make it in the local business scene. What bothers me are the few overly eager individuals who assume it's OK to post their brightly colored advertisements on public property around Greensboro.

Born here 44 years ago and a student of local education, I admittedly feel ownership in Greensboro and have recently become irritated with the ever-growing frequency at which I'm noticing, "We'll buy your … whatever" posted on utility poles at intersections all over town. I can only suspect the posting parties are unappreciative invaders, content only with personal gain.

For those of you who consider Greensboro home, please join me in extracting these corrugated plastic eyesores (a perfectly legal action) by whatever means necessary (I use a pole with a masonry nail attached), to keep Greensboro beautiful. Shall the games begin?

Tobe Sherrill
Greensboro

I am writing to tell you what I think about Gov. Mike Easley's big plan to raise taxes on cigarettes. I do not smoke, but I work at a tobacco plant and I am so tired of the government picking on the tobacco industry. They got their big settlement about two years ago, and I think that was more than enough. So why do they want more?

They are going to put me and many other taxpaying people out of a job. And what good will that do? So I vote no to the cigarette tax. But I vote yes to the state lottery. I guess what I am trying to say is no more taxes at all.

Michael Jarrell
High Point

I am concerned about the lack of funds available for Medicare and Medicaid. Where can these monies be found? With Social Security cuts, the problem has worsened. There are many Americans on Social Security, not just those who are 65 and older.

It is not fair to cut these benefits because many low-income people depend on them for medicine. Without funding, people cannot get the medications they need. Prescriptions are costly, and Medicaid pays for only a portion. This is especially a problem for those who are chronically ill and need regular medication.

Linda Harris
Greensboro
The writer is a participant in a UNCG research project examining relationships between newspaper readership and community participation.

In response to Herbert Smith's letter (March 1), I believe the large majority of people who eat out prefer to eat in a smoke-free environment because of proven health risks of secondary smoke.

As suggested by Smith, you do have a choice of eating elsewhere. However, many can afford to eat at a cafeteria, for example, but find it a little too expensive to eat at a restaurant. Seniors, in particular, can find a good, balanced, healthy meal at one of the cafeterias without stretching their budget.

Many accept the fact that secondhand smoke is dangerous and feel it is their moral obligation to voluntarily offer a smoke-free facility. I have often wondered how restaurants that offer smoking or nonsmoking areas keep the smoke in the smoking section while not having a separate ventilating system for each.

My wife agrees with all the above, but believes that government should not make the decision. However, if eating places do not voluntarily restrict smoking, I support the bill introduced to ban smoking. This won't be the first time I've disagreed with my wife.

George W. Williams
Greensboro

Regarding Megan Fink's letter (Feb. 28) about the destruction of trees, I agree wholeheartedly. Our beautiful old trees are destroyed as if they are of no special value, as if it doesn't take generations for them to pierce the sky in all their majesty.

They lend their branches to shelter us and nourish our spirits by their sheer beauty.

When the force of nature destroys our trees, we mourn, but when they are destroyed in the name of "progress," no one stands up for them. When will we give them the protection and mighty status they deserve? Have we no gratitude for the joy they bring to our lives?

C.K. Merrell
Greensboro

In the Feb. 28 paper, page 4A, it was reported that during the meeting of the nation's governors, 13 of the governors advanced a proposal that is maybe one of the most significant advancements in education in recent years. They are committed to (hold on to your hats) "making their core high school classes and tests more rigorous and to match their graduation standards with the expectations of employers and colleges. They also pledged to hold schools more accountable for ensuring students graduate."

Imagine that. The idea of a functional degree. One that carries with it the assumption of a certain level of knowledge.

Sadly, North Carolina's governor was not one of the 13 who endorsed this idea. My questions are why not in North Carolina, and what is the reaction of the North Carolina Association of Educators?

William R. Bodner
Greensboro

Your editorial, "Giving tax credits for hiring ex-felons" (March 7), begs the following question:

Without naming persons and/or titles, how many ex-felons work at the News & Record in managerial jobs, supervisor jobs, staff jobs and general help?

Donald M. Wojek
Greensboro

On "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood" recently, I was watching Fred's visit with Penny Patterson, the lady who has taught sign language to Koko the gorilla, when I noticed on my table a Sunday News & Record open to the "Outdoors" section.

What a jolting juxtaposition. At the same time I was seeing on my TV highly evolved gentle humans showing us a member of another species that could love, reason and communicate, the paper showed men grinning over bloody animals they'd shot and whose dead body parts they planned to display.

I've tried for years to get the management of this paper to re-examine their praise of those who kill animals for fun. I've had no success, but I'm not discouraged because I still recall beseeching the Greensboro Daily News and the Greensboro Record in 1962 to reconsider their editorial support for segregation and Jim Crow laws. They told me they resented outside-agitating Yankees telling Southern men how to treat their contented Negroes.

Today, all sane people recoil in horror at such a position, and one glorious day all sane people will marvel that we ever thought killing animals was a wholesome activity.

Larry Surber
Stoneville

Is it about the kids or the money?

For the past six seasons, I have had the pleasure of bringing my Little League team to a minor league baseball game in Greensboro for free. The kids came dressed in their team uniforms and were introduced to the crowd and took the field with the players for the national anthem. What a great community service to develop the interest of the kids in baseball.

I am sad to learn the program has changed and now costs a minimum of $138.50 (for 12 kids and 13 adults) for the kids to have this experience. The Grasshoppers will make more money with this change, but fewer kids will get the opportunity of being on the field with the pros.

Good luck, Grasshoppers, and please remember the kids -- they are the future Grasshoppers.

Craig Foster
Greensboro
Editor's note: Teams are charged the group rate. The figure quoted is for reserved seats: $4.50 for children and $6.50 for adults.

We often hear how the taxpayers need to spend more money to upgrade our law-enforcement capabilities. Well, apparently it has worked in Greensboro, because when our finest exceeded the logical limits of crime enforcement in the Ham's "poker bust," it seemed that we had reached that magical number of "enough."

However, I'm sure some will disagree with the solution rate of the "lower priority" crimes such as car theft and vandalism, breaking and entering and other "minor" crimes that seem to go unsolved. Many times we hear the usual response from law-enforcement officers, such as, "Well, usually it's just about impossible to find these people since we had no eyewitnesses or not much evidence, and there just isn't enough time to chase down the leads that you've given us. Besides, the judge will probably slap them on the wrist and let them go anyway."

I guess grandstanding has always been a human fault, and it seems some (not all) of our law-enforcement personnel may succumb to that temptation. To use the words of one incompetent law-enforcement officer whom we all know, I support any effort to "nip" this type of "law enforcement" in the bud.

I assume the courts will determine if they have wasted taxpayers' money or not.

Neal E. Hall
Reidsville

If columnist Charles Davenport Jr. is going to construct a column around a quotation from a Supreme Court justice, he ought at least to get the right justice (March 8) [not posted].

The oft-cited "The Constitution is colorblind" quote comes from the famous dissent in Plessy v. Ferguson by Associate Justice John Marshall Harlan (the elder), a post-bellum abolitionist from Kentucky, and not from anything written by Chief Justice John Marshall, an antebellum slave owner from Virginia.

Moreover, Harlan was expressing a personal ideal and not a fact. The Constitution was notoriously not colorblind in its acknowledgement of the evil institution of slavery, e.g., Article I, sec. 2, representation in Congress based on "three-fifths of all other persons."

In one of those ironies of history, the famous Plessy dissent of 1895 (which would become the law of the land in 1954 in Brown v. Board of Education) was penned by Harlan on the very same writing desk used years earlier by Chief Justice Taney to draft the notorious Dred Scott decision.

James H. Jeffries III
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Melanie Rodenbough

The March 8 editorial, "Making the grade," correctly states that parents at Grimsley are worried about the proposed ninth-grade academy (plans for which have since been abandoned).

That you endorse the ninth-grade academy concept as an isolated remedy for students who are failing and dropping out highlights one of our principal concerns: Few in our community understand the radical changes proposed for our high schools.

Virtually systemwide, yet another serious and far-reaching policy change is being driven by the availability of a federal grant whose requirements go far beyond implementing ninth-grade academies. The small learning communities (SLC) grant changes a large school into a group of SLCs or academies. The grant funds "extensive restructuring" of the school through an SLC project that "will include every student within the school by no later than the end of the fifth school year of implementation." The option of just implementing a ninth-grade academy does not exist if the school is in the grant. And since the grant provides up to $800,000 per school, the incentive to jump into the big pot of money is high.

But, at what cost do we continue to chase after every available grant to fund programs that have not been thought through and do not have community support? Our county commissioners, reflecting the growing sentiment of the public whose tax dollars fund the schools, are disenchanted with leadership that grabs for every new program but still fails to educate our children. We have students who are failing and dropping out in droves in Guilford County. By one count, 61 percent of black boys and 32 percent of white boys fail to graduate. There is little evidence that just putting them into academies will solve their problems.

The grant states that, "Effectively implementing an SLC project requires significant prior planning and preparation, as well as extensive consultation with, and participation by, school personnel, parents, students and community leaders. It is not a discrete activity that can be carried out by a handful of teachers and school personnel without the involvement of the larger school community."

The latter describes precisely what almost happened at Grimsley.

The writer lives in Greensboro.

The News & Record has published several articles recently suggesting that wicked lead paint may lurk within our homes. The articles stridently advocated the position that there is an epidemic of lead poisoning.

After being "informed" about the purported lead paint holocaust, members of the Greensboro City Council were asked their opinions about resolving this public danger. Not surprisingly, most of them favored amending the housing code so as to require lead paint removal or abatement. I'm guessing that these politicians realized that a different response at that time would have tacitly implied that they were in favor of lead poisoning.

Is this threat real or contrived? Many houses within the city were built before lead paint was banned in 1978. How many council members live in these older homes? Do those members truly believe that such paint is a health hazard to themselves and/or their loved ones? If so, shouldn't they pay to have their homes tested and have the paint removed if detected? Their failure to do so would indicate that they don't really believe any such danger exists. Certainly, they shouldn't be asking others to do something that they refuse to do themselves.

Wendell H. Sawyer
Greensboro

I'm near retirement, so the Social Security debacle doesn't concern me directly. It's you under-55 folks who should be worried -- not that the system is near bankruptcy, but that it will be ruined by so-called reform.

Social Security is nowhere near bankrupt. With minor changes, it can last well into the next century. So why all the rush? The arrogant profiteers of big business and industry (can you spell "Enron"?), who have bought their political influence, are thrilled by the thought that they can add billions to their annual profit margins.

This proposal is legalized grand theft perpetrated against the American worker. I hope and pray that I live for another 20 years so I can listen to all the moaning and crying from you half-wits who support this disaster. You really believe that you will be able to retire someday? What a laugh. We get the government we deserve.

Bob Gaines
Greensboro

The gent who suggested naming the new Northern High School after Edward R. Murrow was way off on his suggestion.

A much better name would be North Northwest or West Northwest, or North North, or Eastwest or Slightly North or even NorthSoutheastWest Guilford (my favorite).

People are so creative in Guilford County that I'm sure "Edward R. Murrow High" would not be a directional option.

Lee Mills III
Madison

It is very upsetting to read that our elected officials have filed legislation seeking $20 million of taxpayer money for an ACC Hall of Champions. I am an avid sports fan who played, coached and is "glued to the tube" during ACC basketball season. However, I cannot see taxpayer dollars being used for such a venture when donations would probably pour into such a project.

I have been trying (with little success) to get our legislators to help with an inequitable tax situation involving teachers and state employees. This seems a little more important and does not involve spending taxpayer money. If they would pass legislation to correct this situation, I would donate to the creation of an ACC Hall of Champions!

I hope that all teachers and state employees who are or will be taxed under the Bailey Tax Law will contact their legislators. The News & Record has my permission to give my contact information to those who may be affected and who want to help do something about it.

Carolyn Stutts
Pleasant Garden

Some weeks ago, Guilford area businesses and ACC boosters proposed the "ACC Hall of Champions." A "tribute center" was to be built near the Greensboro Coliseum.

The only problem is that these ACC boosters did not have $23 million to build the complex. Where would they get the money?

Answer: Our Guilford County lawmakers have filed legislation seeking 20 million tax dollars to finance the boondoggle.

The last thing big-time, big-business, college athletics needs is more tribute. As almost everyone recognizes, the pandering of ACC universities to bloated athletic programs is obscene. Everything is up for sale, from university stadium skyboxes to logos on sneakers. Why should tax dollars be used to further glorify ACC athletics?

I hope readers will contact their Guilford County lawmakers and express their feelings regarding this "tribute" to excess.

William W. Purkey
Greensboro

I am curious as to the News & Record's position on House Bill 386. This is the bill in the N.C. House that would allocate our state electoral votes by congressional district, such that the presidential candidate who received the most votes in a congressional district would get the electoral vote for that district.

This is another obvious attempt by Democrats to change a long- standing system to benefit them. Because the News & Record seems very concerned about the voting system lately, I think your position on this bill is due. I am willing to bet you will side with Democrats (but only if the bill has a realistic chance of passing).

I am not writing this letter for it to be printed, although you certainly may. I really do want to test your position on this in light of the recent election-related editorials.

Samuel Spagnola
Oak Ridge

The "No Child Left Behind Act" at least offered some form of "choice" to the families in High Point's failing educational system who seek relief. Voting to remove four failing high schools was a blatant admission of failure, yet there was no opposition by High Point's representatives Susan Mendenhall and Dot Kearns -- the schools and children they represent bear all the costs of this vote.

By removing Title I aid, our school board, and most especially our superintendent, have admitted defeat. Our schools can't pass minimum federal testing, so the superintendent convinces the board to remove them from the federal program so his budget will not have to pay for busing them to a "passing" school.

In fact, he has convinced the school board to place these children in a "lottery," forcing many to be bused from one failing school to another at great expense. After all, it is better to leave these underprivileged and often minority students where they can't do any harm. Better still, it doesn't highlight our superintendent's failure to provide the solutions and leadership we need.

Where are the county commissioners and city council? Are they watching Rome burn?

Garth Hebert
High Point

After much thought, I have come to the conclusion that North Carolinians are actually smart enough to decide if we should have a lottery. If we had a lottery, the poor would stay poor and the rich would stay rich. Meanwhile, all our children would enjoy better schools. Our roads would be repaired as needed. And none of it would raise our taxes.

To summarize, we get better educated children and fewer potholes. The people of our state deserve to decide. Not our elected state government, but you and I. We are not as dumb as they think we are.

Cabell Borland
Gibsonville

Regarding the letter from Robert Sharpe (March 10), "policy analyst" for Common Sense for Drug Policy:

He must have his head buried in something besides sand when he states that drug testing public school athletes for drugs will "compel marijuana users to switch to harder drugs." Thanks for printing his far-fetched letter, as it demonstrates how removed from real life the "policy setters" in Washington are. I shudder to think what he has in mind when he urges our schools to invest in "reality-based drug education."

Ed Dodson
Oak Ridge

Last year, CrossRoads: Sexual Assault Response and Resource Center saw 239 children who had been victims of sexual abuse. And that doesn't even cover the number of kids who have not told of their abuse or not found our services.

These children are in school with your children. They go to your church and live in your neighborhood. They are boys and girls of all ages, and from all races and socio-economic backgrounds.

Through our Children's Advocacy Center, we provide a child-friendly space for police officers to interview the children. We help the kids prepare to testify in court and go with them when they do. We serve as an advocate for these children during a crucial time. But we struggle each year to serve the children in our community with less and less funding.

The state Legislature is now considering state appropriation bills (H130 in the House and S328 in the Senate) that will provide funding to the certified children's advocacy centers in the state. The funding for this bill does not have an impact on your county taxes. Contact your representative at (919) 733-7928 and ask for their support of H130 or S328.

Brooke Barnett
Burlington

In response to Bill Burnett's letter (March 10), and for those who oppose the death penalty, pay my tax! Barbaric, unconstitutional? Give me a break. Here's what they get:

It appears it's "get Jim" time again. For some reason it's popular to degrade a person who gets things done. First, consider what Jim Melvin has accomplished.
Jim Melvin is:

I wanted to urge caution to all those in the Triad who travel on Bellemeade, Greene, Lindsay and Eugene streets in the downtown area, where new stoplights have been erected. These stoplights create situations that are potentially very dangerous.

On no less than four occasions, I've almost been hit by drivers who have not noticed these new stoplights. On March 10, I was almost killed. I had a green light and was ready to turn onto Eugene Street at the new light there. However, I noticed a van that wasn't braking, with a driver behind the wheel who was completely oblivious to the red light ahead of him. He drove through the light like a complete idiot. If I had not exercised caution and patience, he would have hit my Honda square on the driver's side, and he was driving fast.

I urge all sane residents of Greensboro to exercise due caution on these streets. Just because you have a green light, please be aware that there are other drivers out there who aren't aware of the new lights downtown, and be conscious that they may run right into you as a result.

Dave Gleason Jr.
Greensboro

Having read several letters (and an editorial in support of Edward R. Murrow) about the naming of the new high school, I want to express an opposing view. The children who will attend this new school are presently attending or would have attended either Northwest or Northeast (rivals for many years).

By choosing Northern Guilford, it will give both communities ownership in the name and ease the transition. Those of us who graduated from a "compass point" school take as much pride in our schools' name as if we had graduated from a "name" school. Do you honestly think that students at Dudley, Andrews, Page, etc., have more pride in their schools than Eastern, Southwest, Western or others? The students and parents of Northwest and Northeast are proud of our schools and feel the name of Northern Guilford would bring our communities together, giving us a new school to be just as proud of. We hope the school board will listen to our opinion and make the most logical decision.

Use the last point of the compass and make the new school part of 40-plus years of excellent tradition in Guilford County. Name the new school Northern Guilford.

Delane Williams
Summerfield

Your recent editorial on gasoline prices was off the mark. The idea that oil companies are gouging anyone is just not in line with our nation's free enterprise system. Business owners are fully expected to set prices at whatever level the market will bear. It is the job of those in management to return the greatest possible profit for their owners/investors. In this case, the owners of the oil companies are the tens of thousands of oil company stock, bond and commodity owners.

You also missed the mark on the relationship between product supply and selling price. Supply has little to do with price; demand, however, has everything to do with it. The American motorist has created the world's greatest demand for gasoline by a conscious choice to shun efficient vehicles in favor of heavy, inefficient vehicles.

Choosing and buying a terribly inefficient vehicle and then crying about being gouged by the oil companies is simply without merit. It's not a matter of price gouging; it's a matter of making an unintelligent choice and then having to pay the piper.

Tom Kirkman III
High Point

I work for the High Point Child Support office, and I can see the problems the Bush budget is causing already. Families who are having problems making ends meet without medical insurance are losing the option of receiving Medicaid.

Single parents who are struggling to get their children educated are seeing their schools' budgets cut, and they can't afford school supplies for their children. Families that are trying to get on their feet and back to work are losing child care supplements and don't earn enough to make it worth their while to work.

President Bush needs to visit the little people and see what his misdirection of funds is doing to the struggling families in North Carolina.

Susan Charboneau
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Park. R. Davidson and David B. Levy

The News & Record article "Millions in loans may go unpaid" (March 6) did not fully evaluate other essential information and benefits related to the city's affordable multifamily housing loan program.

In the late 1980s, a federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit federal program was introduced calling for an annual state competition for sponsors/developers to apply for tax credit allocations. Once an allocation is awarded, the sponsor/developer sells the tax credits to a private syndicator generating approximately 50 percent of funds required to purchase and rehabilitate or build new housing. The remaining 50 percent is typically financed by conventional bank loans, state loans and city loans. A majority of the units cited in the article received tax credits and are providing low-income housing for 30 years. In our view it is premature to judge the repayment of these loans.

To make rents more affordable, the city's low or zero interest loans reduce bank loan amounts. During recent years additional funding resources have become available, decreasing amounts borrowed from the city, and presently every city dollar loaned to tax credit developments typically leverages $8 to $11 in other funds.

When other loans mature or come due, there are two probable scenarios. First is the possibility the property would be sold and turned into market-rate rentals, at which time the city loan would be paid in full. The second possibility is that sponsors/developers would refinance, modernize and commit to keep rents affordable to low-income households for another 20 to 30 years in return for a city loan extension.

In addition to providing affordable and quality housing, many of the developments that are purchased and rehabilitated eliminate dilapidated and boarded-up units that encourage vandalism, drug use and other crime. The tax-credit properties also pay property taxes where was little was being paid previously.

Affordable Housing Management Inc., a private nonprofit corporation previously known as Greater Greensboro Housing Foundation, has been developing and managing affordable multifamily housing for 35 years. One example of efficient use of city funds is Windhill, AHM's most recent development that provides 60 families with affordable places to live. The $379,877 city loan leveraged $4.12 million in other funds, or in other words, every city dollar loaned leveraged $10.85 in other funds.

Our city and all of us benefit when there is better housing. It is extremely important that the city continue to provide these types of loans for affordable multifamily housing, and the city should be applauded for doing so.

Davidson is president and Levy is executive director, Affordable Housing Management Inc.

Last week the Republican-controlled Senate failed to raise the minimum wage from $5.15 per hour. This action falls right in line with President Bush's agenda to place corporate America over the American people and the American workers. Bush touts himself as a "compassionate leader," yet we have workers living in poverty, seniors struggling to buy medicine, everyone having it stuck to them at the gas pump and the cost of living continuing to rise.

This president seems to be more concerned about creating democracies in other countries than he is about promoting the well-being of our own citizens. Bush's agenda is costing the American people billions of dollars as the record deficit continues to soar, mainly due to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Bush himself is arrogant and stubborn. Everything is his way or "hit the highway." This type of attitude continues to divide the American people and our country.

This government was formed "of the people and by the people for the people." This government was also formed upon the concept of compromise. The president would do well to take some valuable lessons from our forefathers.

Charles M. O'Connor
Greensboro

I bring your attention to the published March 3 editorial cartoon of John Paul II and Terri Schiavo.

I feel it reflects very negatively on journalistic judgment regarding the sensibilities -- faith-based -- of Catholic Christians and others who hold Pope John Paul in deep respect as one of the greatest moral leaders of our time and one whose present physical travails and spiritual message are trivialized and lampooned in the cartoon.

No matter what one's position on end-of-life experiences and choices as to suffering, death and dying, the cartoon's caricature of a grinning Terri Schiavo and the pontiff with a distorted, crumpled face, in my opinion, exceeded ordinary decency and was unworthy of your publication.

I believe many others in this local faith community share my concerns, and I personally would welcome your response.

Richard von Stamwitz
Greensboro

Editor's note: You are right, and you are not the only reader who was offended by the cartoon. We erred in choosing it for publication.

I am protesting the editorial cartoon of March 3 showing Pope John Paul lying beside Terri Schiavo and admonishing her that suffering can be of value. I am unable to find any political, social or religious message in the drawing.

Mrs. Schiavo has been for years, not in a coma, but unable to communicate with anyone. She smiles and rolls her eyes, but that seems to be the extent of her life, which is being sustained by food and water. Her husband, already the father of children outside their marriage, wants her dead, while her parents want her kept alive. Whether she is suffering, as in the cartoon, we don't know.

The pope has suffered from Parkinson's disease, disabling him physically but not affecting his mind. The pope's church opposes euthanasia, killing the aged and disabled. Removal of Mrs. Schiavo's hydration will certainly kill her in a few days, ending any chance that, like several recent persons long in a coma, she might recover.

This religious dogma is the only connection between this disabled lady and the pope. Your cartoonist, distorting and caricaturing the usual smiling face of the pope, has somehow come up with a crude drawing, selected by you, to offend all of us.

Dick Douglas
Greensboro

I will admit to rarely agreeing with the honorable Billy Yow. But he may, with "may" being the operative word here, have a point about Skip Alston's hatred of white people. However, the honorable Mr. Yow needs to come clean about his equal hatred of African Americans and especially his hatred of any organizations that support African Americans.

James Galler
Stokesdale

Reporter Eric Dyer and the GTCC Political Science Club are guilty of either not doing enough research or intentionally omitting information (in the page B1 article, March 6).

You can get a lot of emotional mileage out of saying that a winner-take-all electoral system disenfranchises those who didn't vote in the majority -- but each side loses as much as it wins.

Dyer refers to "Florida's balloting fiasco fours years ago" and then proceeds to trumpet the "why doesn't every state do it the Maine and Nebraska way" theme.

Refigure the 2000 vote and apportion the electoral votes the way Maine and Nebraska did and you find out that George W. Bush still wins -- and by the very same electoral vote.

Frank A. Stewart
Greensboro

Lee me see. I've been paying from 4 percent to 6 percent of my wages into the Social Security system for more than 40 years. My employers have matched this amount. Why do they now call this an entitlement program?

I realize the money we've paid in has gone to make payments to retirees who were drawing their benefits. I fail to understand the difference between this and my investing money into a savings plan. I'm not using that money now, someone else is.

And why do they call it a Social Security tax? That is money that my employers and I have put aside for a part of my retirement. Why don't they call the money taken out of my check and invested into my 401k a tax?

Due to the restructuring of the Social Security program some 20 years ago, in preparation for the retirement of the baby boomers, billions more each year are paid into the system than is taken out. This is according to the Congressional Budget Office. The problem, of course, is that the politicians will not keep their hands off this money. They should be required to pull out the IOUs and put the money back into the fund.

Royce L. Richardson
Madison

Regarding the construction of a $23 million Atlantic Coast Conference museum:

Dick Grubar's comment (N&R, Jan. 25) says it all: "We have to do everything we can to keep them (the ACC) married to Greensboro."

This tight tether, if you will, is one that big egos like to flaunt, despite the fact that there is no research to support the idea that a museum would affect Greensboro's ability to attract high-profile ACC events.

I am not consoled by Mayor Holliday's comment suggesting that "most of the money should come from corporations and other donors." No public money at all should be designated for this project; proposals that benefit only an elite few should not even be considered by the City Council.

Finally, the News & Record should be embarrassed by its (very) thinly veiled attempt to push for future tournaments by including such an extravagant ACC Tournament section. The grossly overblown color photographs are comically pretentious. It is unfortunate that the ordinary citizen cannot automatically rely on the good judgment of its leaders and the propriety of its local newspaper.

In the best of all worlds, letters like this should be unnecessary.

Teresa K. Dail
Greensboro

On Jan. 28, the Northwest High School "We the People" team won its ninth consecutive state championship.

The program is a mock congressional hearing about elements of the Constitution. We put countless hours into preparation for states, and will do so now for nationals.

As a result of us going to nationals, we must raise more than $25,000 to pay for the trip. We have worked with state Rep. Pricey Harrison to secure a bill that funds the trip starting next year with $25,000 from the state Department of Public Instruction.

I understand we are in a budget crisis, but if we can request $20 million for an ACC museum, we can afford money for civic education programs. It is essential, as school board Chairman Alan Duncan said recently, to develop an educated work force to attract jobs to the area. This is one way of fulfilling that goal. Please urge your legislator to take action and get this bill passed to support future classes at any school of "We the People."

I'm sure future classes would appreciate being able to focus on preparation versus fund-raising.

Chase Rumley
Summerfield

I'm wondering, do we still have government by the people and for the people, or just government for the Congress and the well off?

No gimmicks are attached by members of Congress when they give themselves thousands of dollars' increase in their salaries every year, yet they cannot see the need for minimum-wage workers to receive even a 50-cent increase in eight or nine years. What a terrible shame.

The low minimum these workers receive is even less when you take into account the increase in the cost of living over the last eight years. Oil, gasoline, medicine, health care.

These supposed representatives of the people have no hesitation in approving billions of dollars for Iraq but not one dollar for the lowest-paid workers in their own country. It's really sad that these men can't come to grips with their selfish actions.

Otis Stephens
Browns Summit

The Supreme Court has barred the execution of 16- and 17-year-olds. In 1988, it barred the execution of juveniles under 16. Since 1988, what has happened to the rate of murders committed by those under age 16?

Let's watch over the next five years and see what happens to the rate of murders committed by 16- and 17-year-olds. These "juveniles have a lack of maturity and underdeveloped sense of responsibility" and "are vulnerable to peer pressure," which also makes them susceptible to being hired to commit murder.

A content analysis of the News & Record done by yours truly 10 years ago over a three-year period showed that the number of reported homicides by people who had previously committed homicide and had either escaped or been paroled from jail was 80 times as great as the reporting of those persons who had been convicted of homicide and were later found to be not guilty.

Tom Teepen in his [wire service] column of March 5 says, "No study has ever been able to show that the death penalty discourages the crimes it punishes." Those who are executed do not kill again.

John R. Dykers Jr.
Siler City

I was amazed to see in the March 13 edition a photo of a "re-enactment" at Waxhaw showing about 18 Confederate and Union soldiers. Frankly, this is a little small for a re-enactment.

At the same time, you totally ignored one of the largest Revolutionary War re-enactments in the Southeast this same weekend. This is the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Each year hundreds of re-enactors, volunteers and others work hard to put on a free event for the citizens. It is a great educational opportunity for young and old about an important part of local and national history.

You did not run a story on any day prior to the event, nor after Saturday's activities that would have helped citizens learn what was going on. Running photos on Monday morning, March 14, does not do anyone any good. Was Saturday's part of the event not newsworthy for Sunday's as opposed to Monday's paper?

You do a great disservice to the public by not noting the event in time for people to attend.

John Beaman
Greensboro

Editor's note: The newspaper published prior notices of the Guilford Courthouse re-enactment in Go Triad. An information box about the event also accompanied a March 11 article on the proposed Nathanael Greene license plate.

Let me see if I've got this straight: Billy Yow, who recently garnered negative national attention with a blatantly racist T-shirt and who can't seem to open his mouth without blurting something against blacks, is calling Skip Alston a racist?

Although I'm no fan of Alston, either, I'd find the whole thing hilarious if it weren't so pathetic.

Michael Brown
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Tom Beaver

I have a small, upper-end furniture company, called Yorkshire House, with a showroom in Hamilton-Wrenn in High Point.

When I went to England in the fall of 1992 to buy samples for my company, there was an exhibition called Longpoint in Nottingham. I bought samples from several companies. When I checked out of the small, very nice hotel, there was a bill for zero pounds. None. I asked why and was told that the exhibitors all pitched in to compensate the hotels to attract buyers. I think that the zero part of it was for visitors from outside the United Kingdom and that the British buyers had to pay, but at a greatly reduced rate, still coming from the exhibitors.

I think the San Francisco Market Authority had something like this going. Las Vegas probably will get most of that market, due to location.

I don't understand why our people have not addressed this issue. I know that my company would contribute, somewhere around 1 percent of sales at market. If all or most exhibitors did something similar, I believe it would amount to $15 million to $20 million per market, which could be redistributed to either the hotels or directly to the buyers who attend. There is too much money invested in showrooms here for this idea to be ignored.

I went out to Las Vegas last fall for the first time, and I guarantee they will have a major market. I think it would be insane for a West Coast retailer to not attend, especially with the reduced rates being offered. Bellagio at $139? They have as many good restaurants, arguably, in that one hotel as we have in High Point. And Bellagio is at the top of the price points they have negotiated. And as for gambling, shows, etc., it would be easy to play a little blackjack or whatever, see a show and still be in bed by 9 or 10. Or not gamble and see shows.

If the exhibitors in High Point do not wish to lose this market, they should at least be consulted.

The writer lives in High Point.

Face it: The poor will always be with us. It's not a crime to be poor, but it is a crime against society when we allow people to live in projects and slums. Low-income housing complexes do nothing more than produce or encourage crime, fear and low self-esteem forced upon those individuals who have nowhere else to go.

Do away with this type housing. $12.5 million spent and very little return screams we can do a better job. Utilize the existing apartment complexes in the city and subsidize the cost. This city has many great apartments with vacancies. It will cost the taxpayers more to fund this type housing, but it's worth the cost. We can help those who cannot help themselves. Getting rid of crime produced by projects is worth it alone. We should not allow developers interested in their own profits to suppress victims of circumstance. We should hold developers to the same standards as anyone who builds for-profit or nonprofit alike.

Changing the standard of living and allowing those less fortunate to redeem self-worth will produce a finer community for all to live in.

C. Wayne Hinton
Greensboro

A military retiree's request: We want our "promise of free health care for life!" The proposed new budget puts a heavier burden on the American veterans, $250 upfront and out-of-pocket when visiting a V.A. clinic, and the cost of prescriptions will double. Remember we have fought your battles and wars, not having the power of choice, but never faltering. We may have sometimes failed your expectations, but never did we cower before the enemy in defense of this nation.

Be considerate of us, for we have not been trained in the niceties of nonmilitary life. We were taught the demands of military discipline. Now, well along in years, we ask that you give us our due. Please do not turn your back on us. In these aging years, respect us and keep promises made to entice us into enduring fear, hardships and dangers while our families suffered because of low pay.

President Bush said during his first campaign, "Promises made will be promises kept." We are sill waiting. The future looks grim for veterans' benefits while we are spending $2.5 billion building a new power plant in Iraq and a great deal more in rebuilding projects there.

Veterans are asking citizens for support; tell Congress and the president to "keep promises to America's military retirees."

Stan Spangle
High Point

Since many of us have paid into FICA for years and are now receiving a monthly Social Security check — and then finding that we are getting taxed on 85 percent of the money we paid to the federal government to "put away" — you may be interested in the following:

Q: Which party took Social Security from an independent fund and put it into the general fund so that Congress could spend it?

A: Lyndon Johnson and the Democratic-controlled House and Senate.

Q: Which party increased the tax on Social Security?

A: The Democratic Party, with Al Gore casting the deciding vote.

Q: Which party decided to give money to immigrants?

A: That's right, immigrants moved into this country and at age 65 got SSI Social Security. The Democratic Party gave that to them, although they never paid a dime into it.

Democrats now tell you Republicans want to take your Social Security.

It's convenient how the liberal media and today's congressional Democrats have simply forgotten the numerous documented and videotaped efforts of President Clinton and his congressional Democrats to save Social Security from its impending crisis. Now, due to irresponsible partisan politics, they claim a crisis does not exist.

Russell Kitchens
Greensboro

Kathryn Larson's letter (March 7) boasting of her lesbianism was as confusing as if she had boasted about alcoholism or adultery, etc. Professing Christianity doesn't remove sin. Only Christ's atonement redeems us from sin.

Jesus told a religious leader a "spiritual birth" produced children of God, "new creations in Christ," not "a new world Christ" she seeks. Jesus said we are his "if we keep his commandment (word of God). Jesus forgives, not accepts, sin. He forgave an adulterer, then commanded, "Go and do this no more."

We all were the hopes and dreams of our parents, and God; even Judas Iscariot and Jeffrey Dahmer were. But sin mars God's plan. Therefore, Jesus' mission statement was "to see and save mankind from sin." Education, sophistication, tolerance, etc., can't remove sin. On the contrary, they often give false hope. Loving someone means facing painful truth.

"What is truth?" Pilate asked Jesus. Jesus answered, "I am truth," and he and his word are one. My love and understanding of my dad's abusive alcoholism changed nothing, but Jesus changed him by setting him free from "the sin that so easily beset him."

Allen Bullard
Randleman

Congratulations. Your main article on Tuesday's Kids' Day page is the most positive step I have seen the News & Record take in some time. I had almost finished reading the day's offerings and was not impressed until the last page caught my attention.

Young Otto Jan is representative of many students I have met through their parents in my travels. The information provided in the article should be of considerable interest and value to local families and, I hope, the Guilford County school system. Take another look at a typical week at his local school in a town of 17,000 people.

Why not feature more such articles from around the world?

Harris Johnson
Greensboro

Regarding "Everybody into the (office) pool" (March 15):

How could you put this in the paper and possibly ruin the last bastion of fun in Greensboro?

I can see now, ALE officers running around, SWAT teams in a state of readiness, the sheriff swooping down on Jefferson Financial, United Guaranty, American Express, even City Hall itself, as the community "do-gooders" continue to rid Greensboro of its great areas of crime -- Texas No-limit Hold 'Em, video poker, and now the office NCAA basketball pool.

It is kind of absurd, isn't it?

While crime continues to grow in our streets and businesses, we focus on the victimless crimes. Yes, these are easy convictions, but do they make Greensboro safer?

I doubt that Las Vegas, in its effort with its new furniture market, is thinking let's crack down on gambling, eliminate the clubs, eliminate billboards and create a scenic corridor between the airport and the strip. No, they are on a mission to attract business and people, and they are doing it!

One last reminder: Even with the new baseball stadium, absolutely no betting on the Grasshoppers, or you'll get squashed!

Nolan S. Williams
Greensboro

Wow, how do I get a $960,000 loan from the city to start a business with the provision that if I don't make a profit, I don't have to pay back the loan?

For disclosure purposes, I'm white and I don't label those who investigate me as racist. Skip Alston uses the race card like most of us use cologne. Too much cologne is quite offensive to most.

Alston, and those like him, feels he should be unaccountable for anything he does. He contends that by merely reporting accurately the misdeeds of any black operation, namely St. James and Project Homestead, the News & Record is "on a mission to destroy black leaders in the community."

This same mind-set howls that the schools suspend many more blacks than whites, while never mentioning the reasons for the suspensions. Mr. Alston, and other, so-called black leaders blame it on racism. What else could it be?

These people have played the race card so successfully that white officials have neglected looking into the misdeeds of black organizations for fear of being called racists. Equality comes with a price.

Tony Moschetti
High Point

The current push by the Bush administration to "fix" Social Security, while basically ignoring the much bigger and more pressing problems of health care in this country, is puzzling and disturbing. Many people do not have health coverage or are about to lose coverage because of skyrocketing health insurance rates. As a small businessman, I have seen our health care rates increase dramatically the last couple of years: We are looking at another increase this May, and it can ill be afforded. Why not "fix" the most pressing problems first?

Consider the following scenario: You take your car into the shop, where the mechanic tells you that your AC is leaking Freon and your transmission is about shot. You cannot afford to fix both, so what do you do? 

If President Bush were the mechanic, he would tell you to "fix" the AC because it is within reach and because he really, really likes AC. But he'd have you ignore the bigger and more critical problem of the transmission.  Now, how much sense does that make? It appears to me that political ideologies rather than hard cold dollars and cents are driving this "reform."

Kent Tager
Greensboro

Herbert Smith's letter (March 1) indicated that he thinks banning smokers in a public restaurant is somehow an infringement on smokers' rights. He may need to study the word "public" and how it relates.

Perhaps Mr. Smith should also be reminded that nonsmokers have never delivered a proven health hazard on smokers. Can he say the same about smokers in public places?

If Mr. Smith is looking for a cause, it's right in front of him. He should be campaigning and writing letters requesting that the ignorant adults and parents who take small children (and sometimes even babies) into the smoking section of restaurants be arrested. These tiny victims have no control over the damage that is being inflicted upon them by those who value smoking more than the health of their own children.

Seems to me that these babies and children need Mr. Smith's help much more than those who can't eat a meal minus lighting an object on fire and putting it in their mouths to inject the fumes into their lungs -- for enjoyment and pleasure!

Ed Creamean
Danville, Va.

Lou C. Pruitt's letter of March 12 regarding the Feb. 27 accident involving four young people hit the nail on the head.

Is it worth adding more tears, non-truths for the parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents and friends of these four obviously very special young individuals before thoroughly investigating the "facts" of the event?

Yes, an explanation was printed; however, I know of many who failed to see this follow-up. As for the consistent editor's notes at the end of each letter about the accident advising one to go to a "blog," I do not feel this is enough. There are people who do not use a computer.

A front-page story to correct the foul reporting of this event would be some justification for the families involved. If treated the same as you do with other sensational news, it could certainly give one a bit more faith in professional journalism.

Nancy Fletcher Pearman
Greensboro

Editor's note: A front-page story on March 3 explained that the News & Record had been supplied incorrect information by the Highway Patrol. Also, the writer of this letter is not related to the driver of the SUV involved in the accident.

Isn't it ironic? One day we are told that Social Security is going broke, and the ensuing day we learn that Social Security is solvent until 2050, even if nothing is done to alter its current status. Whom are we to believe?

Certainly, no item looms larger on the Bush agenda than the Social Security debacle. I'm reminded of the adage that says, "If it's working and ain't broke, don't mess with it." That seems to sum up the opinion of many older U.S. citizens enjoying the benefits of Social Security today, myself included. As a participant, I heartily endorse the system as it is structured.

However, President Bush seems doggedly determined to dismantle Social Security regardless of the consequences. We are making a concerted effort to understand, but Bush's overall report card thus far is very poor and as such does little influence our support for his position on Social Security:

WMD is an F; Cabinet appointments, D; Iraq war, F; leadership, C; No Child Left Behind, F; the deficit, F.

The prudent course would be to stop, look and listen to the concerns of America, and especially how his Social Security reform would impact future beneficiaries.

Jack Winfield Scott
High Point

Regarding your March 13 editorial [not posted] on "Missing PTI noise meeting illustrates lack of concern":

Apparently officials show little concern for citizens of Guilford County. It is foolish and deceiving to use a 24-hour average instead of four to five hours of FedEx aircraft landings and takeoffs. The 24-hour study should never be used pertaining to airport hubs, whether they're located in Greensboro or elsewhere.

It's useless for the average citizen to attend meetings where a 24-hour average is mandated by the so-called "experts" instead of monitoring the actual FedEx night flights. I don't believe that the PTIA actually knows the timing of the flights. Since when does a 24-hour average take precedent over noisy night flights?

The FAA has been wrong on many occasions. This is an example of its idiotic, incoherent logic: shrinking the noise contour of 65 DNL (Day-Night Sound Level). Few citizens object to 19 hours of daytime flights, but thousands who reside in and out of the noise contour will not tolerate the roaring, disturbing noise of fully loaded aircraft during sleeping hours.

Joseph Gelo
Greensboro

Regarding the story in your March 12 edition, "Doughnut maker faces Robin Hood" [not posted]:

My recollection of the fairy tale story of Robin Hood was that he stole from the rich and gave to the poor. I didn't see anything in there about him taking 40 percent of what he stole. How about telling us what this modern-day Robin Hood (aka Lynn Sarko) is taking? Then we can decide who is the real Robin Hood and who is another fairy tale character (a wolf in sheep's clothing).

Guy Pierce
Summerfield

The Bush budget proposal is set to destroy the economic opportunity, security and potential of this country. By eliminating vocational education, we will make sure that we cannot build our homes, maintain our roads or develop the technologies that have enabled prosperity for many. The Bush administration has apparently decided that we do not need to help retrain individuals who have lost jobs.

It has also decided against providing the resources our community colleges and high schools need to make sure that when the bill for this administration's wasteful spending is due, we will have a community capable of earning the income to pay the deficit. At the same time this administration is letting big companies get away with not investing in our community.

Companies that depend on our roads, railways and ports to transport their products -- which benefit from an educated work force and the scientific and technological research that we have all paid for -- have been told that they don't have to pay their dues. This is not a government that seems capable of wisely investing the money we taxpayers have provided them. Just say no to this budget.

Stephen Johnson
Greensboro

In the 13th century, the Sunni Muslim Caliph of Baghdad refused to negotiate with Mongol invaders. Shiites who were suppressed by the Sunnis secretly cooperated with the Mongol invaders. After the Mongols sacked Baghdad, every Sunni man, woman and child who was captured was put to death. The Shiites were spared but witnessed the total destruction of the city and the use of mosques as stables. The general who led the Mongols was a Christian.

While few Americans know this history, this story in various versions has been retold in Sunni and Shiite mosques for eight centuries. Now an invading force of Americans occupies Baghdad. Our soldiers are a focal point for violence from both Sunnis and Shiites who remember this history and see American forces only as another Christian-led invading army. In order to lessen violence in Iraq, we need to withdraw our forces quickly and not in a gradual fashion. Otherwise they will continue to be the target of suicide bombers and other attackers.

We can only hope that the coalition government of Shiites and Kurds that we leave behind will be able to make peace with the Sunnis, and that the situation will not deteriorate into civil war.

Karl B. Fields
Greensboro

Trudy Wade needs to stop blocking the voters' will. She needs to step down immediately. She lost the election pure and simple. She loses the election whether the out-of-precinct votes are counted or not; it's time for her to go.

She is not a legitimate voting member of the Guilford County Board of Commissioners. Enough is enough. John Parks should be sworn in immediately to do the job he was elected to do.

The Republicans need to stop their nonsense. The voters have spoken. Trudy didn't win. That's it.

Wayne Abraham
Greensboro

Kay Hagan has decided upon herself to become the state's soccer mom and try to outlaw sales of video games to children under 18. It's funny how the government likes to use itself as a day care, instead of letting the children's parents decide for themselves.

Instead of wasting the taxpayers' money fighting fantasy crime and violence, try using those resources toward real crime and violence. Since you can obtain these games online, the same way you can find music, kids will be walking a questionable line between breaking the law. Do they decide to use the online resources and violate copyright laws because Kay doesn't want them to be able to obtain these games? Do they get a friend who is over 18 to purchase the game for them? If so, is this going to be treated as endangerment to a minor or is another law going to be created for people who buy video games for their children?

Rodney B. Mabe
Greensboro

Editor's note: The proposed legislation would prohibit the sale to minors of video games deemed "obscene and graphically violent."

In the last 10 years, I have spent some time in Phoenix and Knoxville. I have been consistently appalled by the lack of coverage of world and national news in each city's papers. On one visit, I found world news in the Arizona Republic listed as being on one (!) page, only to find that it consisted of one story. The Knoxville News-Sentinel was as bad.

John Robinson's column about emphasizing local coverage made me uneasy, and my fears are being realized. There is a notion that TV covers everything, but TV provides only teasers. I expect my newspaper to provide substance. The News & Record formerly did a commendable job of that. But no more.

The local news is covered in the city section -- that's what it is for. A front-page local feature or item of unusual import is fine, but when not one item of world or national significance appears on the front page, something is wrong. What does it signify when Iraq is pushed to Page 2? What about the Social Security issue? What about the Middle East? I could go on and on. You have simply gone too far.

Virginia Tucker
Greensboro

Random thoughts while procrastinating starting on tax returns:

1) Most TV commercials are silly and loud.

2) N.C. A&T has been running classy, clever ads every Sunday on Page 1 of the comics. Original and outstanding.

3) Democrats and Republicans are just like us but need lessons in good manners.

4) My own scientific survey proves that young women in red cars pass everybody. And 43.7 percent of drivers don't use the turn signal because it would damage their cell phones.

5) Rosemary Roberts' March 4 column, "A romp through 'The Gates'" has a great lead: "It took Michelangelo four years to paint the Sistine Chapel. It took Christo and Jeanne-Claude 26 years to persuade this city to approve 'The Gates.' The least I could do last weekend was fly to New York to see their flamboyant creation."

6) Giles Lambertson has it right. His op-ed column ("Please, let's talk politics without getting ugly about it") pleads for civil discourse.

Giles, as much as I love Molly Ivins, I'm willing to give her up if you'll take over.

7) People who write letters to the editor need a life. Time is short -- and the deadline is April 15.

Bill Beerman
Greensboro

Bob Gaines' letter (March 15) on Bush's efforts to reform Social Security hit home with me. Gaines called supporters of this effort "half-wits," even though he is over 55 and will not be affected.

On Jan. 26, the News & Record printed my letter [not posted], "Accept it: Bush has only just begun." I covered Bush's accomplishments and tried to make this comment to Bush haters who call him dumb: "Therefore, look in the mirror and tell me honestly who is the intelligent one here and who just thinks they are." Editor Allen Johnson felt this would be offensive to Bush haters and edited out this sentence. Apparently calling Bush supporters "half-wits" does not fit this category. Think there might be some bias here?

Social Security is in trouble and needs fixing. Had we been allowed personal accounts over the last 40 years, with annual gains of 10 percent vs. 1 to 2 percent, look where we would be today. Why is it OK to pay into Social Security for decades, then when you and spouse pass on, your kids get nothing? Democratic Sen. Patrick Moynihan said personal Social Security accounts equal "wealth equality." Guys like Bob Gaines need to wake up.

Bob Goodman
High Point

We need Barbara Council in Washington (letter, March 12). She says she is smarter than President Clinton, Alan Greenspan and President Bush. All three of these people said Social Security is broken and needs to be fixed. President Clinton used the word "crisis" when he talked about the need to fix it. But Barbara Council has determined that all these people were wrong.

I would invite her to show us her mathematical calculations that show the system is sound for "38 to 48 years." Please also remember that the trust fund has almost no money in it. All it has is an IOU from the federal government. So please show us your calculations.

John M. Bohls
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Christina Bethea

It has been my privilege to serve in the Navy for 10 years. I find it disturbing when I read articles stating the military is willing to sacrifice its work force "just because they are gay."

The military is similar to many civilian workplaces, but in some ways it is different. For example, in the military we are required to perform physical training "as a group." After we exercise, we shower "as a group" (females in one room and males in the other).

On many occasions we are sent away to training, where we live in barracks or in rooms that sleep two or three others. Privacy is a luxury we seldom experience. I believe this is one reason that homosexuality in the military becomes an issue.

If we could turn the tables for a moment, let me ask: How many in the civilian workplace shower with someone (of the same sex) they know to be gay or lesbian? How many civilian employees share a room with someone they know to be gay or lesbian for eight weeks while they attend training? Would it make you uncomfortable to bunk with someone who you know is attracted to the same sex that you are? It's not to say that person is attracted to you. Just the fact that you know he or she could be would make for an awkward situation. It is no different than a man and a woman who work together going to a conference and being told they have to share the same hotel room.

It is unfortunate that we have lost talented, intelligent members of the military due to their sexual preference and the fact that they refuse to keep their private lives private. However, I believe it would be even more unfortunate for me to be told that to stay in the military, I will be required to shower and share living quarters with women who are openly attracted to other women.

There are not many jobs where you give up as much of your privacy as you do in the military. But we do it because we love serving our country. I sincerely believe the way the military is now in regard to "Don't ask, don't tell" is the way it must be to maintain order, discipline and privacy for its sailors and soldiers.

The writer lives in Greensboro.

At the end of Osama bin Laden's last videotape to Al-Jazeera, an additional 15 minutes of tape were recently discovered:

Osama: Is that it? Again?

Voice off screen: No, Oh Great One. You nailed it. That's a wrap.

Osama: Good. I'm exhausted.

Voice: Is cave life getting to you, Inspired Leader?

Osama: No, I've been reading the papers from America. They've rolled up another sleeper cell, this one in Greensboro. Our Timco group.

Voice: Er, pardon, Most Insightful Commander, but we have no cell in where? Greensboro?

Osama: Look, it says it here in black and white. Anyway, our goose is cooked. Things are looking bad.

Voice: Oh Great Terrorist Number 1, they've merely arrested a bunch of illegal workers. Rounding up Hispanics has become America's way of showing its progress against you, Feared One.

Osama: But this doesn't threaten me at all.

Voice: Correct, Most Wise Ruler.

Osama: Why do they do it then?

Voice: Supreme Cave Dweller, as the proverb says, "When the mighty giant cannot have his way, he chases gnats."

Osama: Stop talking like an idiot. Are we done here? What's been happening in the Jackson trial? Anyone for piz....

Andrew J. Young
Greensboro

To write an article about "Women who ruled" (Ideas, March 20) in the category of medicine/ nurse/ medical reformer without mentioning Margaret Sanger is analogous to writing about the history of baseball without mentioning Babe Ruth.

Millions of American women, and indeed women around the world, owe their reproductive freedom to this courageous diminutive woman who was easily one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.

Julian Busby, M.D.
High Point

Congress has truly outdone itself these last few days. Kafka, Brecht and the Marx Brothers combined could not possibly come up with a more preposterous scene than our fearless Republican leaders grandstanding to keep one comatose woman alive while doing everything possible to undermine health care for the rest of us (and indeed our entire middle class existence).

As a connoisseur of farce, I can only say: Keep up the good work.

Boris A. Chernick
Greensboro

Sir, your reply to John Beaman's letter (March 19) regarding coverage of the Guilford Courthouse re-enactment was, to say the least, uninspiring. Yes, you had a statement in Go Triad; yes you had an article about the potential Guilford Courthouse licence tag: But would it have been so difficult to publish just one photograph in the Sunday paper showing the Saturday re-enactment so you could excite local folk to come out Sunday for the second re-enactment?

Are you aware of the time and energy put in by the volunteers who do this every year?

Are you aware that 2006 is the 225th anniversary of the battle?

Are you also aware that there are local people from Greensboro who do the re-enactment?

I realize that this is nothing compared to the downtown revival and the ballpark, but it is free and historic. And it does recall the days when people fought for their freedom on their own soil.

Maybe next year?

Mike Stokes
Greensboro

In the subhead of your editorial (March 21) [subhead not posted], you insert, "What a dirty shame" regarding drilling in the Arctic. The real shame is your editorial.

Difficult for this reader to understand an editorial board stating categorically that President George Bush does not care for the welfare of our citizens. As I recall, several Democratically controlled congresses, over 40 years, did nothing about the energy problems in the country.

Now the gas situation becomes President George Bush's total responsibility; how ironic and misleading. Opening a tiny acreage in the Arctic will not destroy the tundra/wildlife, as you speciously suggest.

What this country needs is an energy policy accepted by everyone including the Democrats. Only by creating and effectively running such a policy will we begin to see results in our energy situation.

Next time, just write that small paragraph at the end of the editorial and all would be fine.

Don Mulligan
High Point

In response to the letter by Larry Surber ("Bloody animal photos don't belong in paper," March 14), I would like to wholeheartedly agree. I have written to the editor of the Outdoors section before about such pictures, in particular, one a few months back of a 9-year old boy with his first deer.

The response from the editor was that there are just as many folks who "wanted" to see the pictures as there are those who are offended by them.

At least now I'm not totally alone in my opposition to the "wholesome activity" of those who kill animals for sport.

Patricia Graetz
Greensboro

I had been planning to take my father and son to the re-enactment of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse last weekend. Problem was, my father suffers from Stage 4 lung cancer and is limited to a wheelchair. I was very pleased to find the city had prepared.

We were warmly greeted at the gate by park officials who were very busy handling the crowds but stopped what they were doing to take care of us. "Bill" the park manager, who was dressed in the period of the battle and could have been mistaken for one of the soldiers, came armed with his walkie-talkie instead of a musket. He had another park employee come and meet us with a golf cart-like vehicle, which took us into to the living history camp sites. When we were picked up, the park employee treated my father like a VIP and with dignity, assisting him into the passenger side of the vehicle, then loaded his wheel chair into the back bed of the vehicle and drove us directly to an ideal location.

I want to thank the city, Bill and the two drivers who helped Dad enjoy a great day with his son and grandson.

Dale Holder
Greensboro

Charlie Hawes is a true Greensboro baseball fan. Despite its crumbling veneer and smelly bathrooms, Charlie loved to sit in the bleachers at War Memorial Stadium, enjoy a cold beverage, and root the Hornets/Bats on to victory. And every year Charlie would be there on opening day to start another glorious year of Greensboro baseball.

Now, with the opening of the new stadium, there are no opening day tickets available. Thousands of people, some of whom probably never saw the Hornets/Bats play, but who have the resources and want to boast, "I was there first," have snatched up all the tickets, leaving none for the truest baseball fans, like Charlie. And I'm sure he's not the only one.

Don't misunderstand; I hope the new stadium will bring new fans and do wonders for Greensboro baseball.

Ultimately, however, baseball is less about the ball yard and more about the players and fans. And when the new shine is dulled and the thrill of the new stadium has worn off, true fans like Charlie will still be there, cheering the Grasshoppers on to victory and keeping Greensboro baseball alive.

Sam Hensley
Alexandria, Va.
The writer is a native of Greensboro.

Regarding Eric Dyer's March 14 article, "Easley may get lottery chance":

In this story, state Rep. Pricey Harrison is quoted as saying, "There's nothing I like about the lottery. I hate it."

Am I wrong, or is the job of the state representatives to represent the people of the state and to do what the majority of the people want?

Rep. Maggie Jeffus says she would have "to see how the numbers fall out, to see if the majority of the people want it."

Maybe she doesn't talk to the people in her district.

The same article reports that two-thirds of the people want a lottery. Wouldn't $450 million to $500 million help our schools a lot, or do we let our neighboring states continue to get the money we invest in their lottery?

Delbert Kocher
Greensboro

The president has proposed a $45 billion cut in Medicaid over the next 10 years. I once had to use Medicaid, and I want to tell you how important it is.

My wife and I were "downsized" from the military in 1994 with little savings and no transferable skills. We went back to school. Those two years were the hardest of our married lives.

As our savings dwindled, we dropped our medical coverage and turned to the government for help. They couldn't do anything for me or my wife, but the Medicaid program saved our children, especially when my son broke his leg in a tricycle accident a few weeks later. Without that program, I probably wouldn't have made it through college and we'd still be paying doctor bills. I don't complain about paying Medicaid tax anymore. I know there is someone out there who is counting on it.

Are we better off under this president when vital programs like Social Security and Medicaid are under assault? I don't believe there's an imminent crisis in Social Security, but storm clouds are brewing over next year's budget. If things go as the Republicans plan, our country will be laid to waste.

Robert Shirley
High Point

On March 11, the curtain rose on another wonderful stage production directed by Micki Sharpe Glackin and the unfailing leadership of Sister Anne Thomas Taylor, SSJ. I was among those in attendance at Reynolds Auditorium for Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." The performances were awesome. The acting and music by students from Bishop McGuinness High School provided all in attendance with some of the best entertainment offered locally.

This is but one instance of stellar performances by students of Bishop, as well as other high schools, that have gone unheralded by our news media. Just three weeks ago, students spent several days in Boston competing with 79 other schools nationwide in the Harvard Mock Congress. Bishop students managed to score 15 superior ratings.

Students from Bishop and students from all other high schools who are engaged in such as the preceding activities are worthy of at least some short mention in our media. These are the future leaders of our nation and as such deserve as much air time as do the athletes on whom we spend most of our money and our press coverage.

Is it possible your readers might appreciate coverage of our young people's accomplishments?

Roy C. Southern Jr.
Stoney Creek

The unthinkable, nuclear terrorism, has been thought of, as your Ideas article pointed out (Feb. 20). What do we do?

The easiest way for terrorists to get the bomb is to buy one smuggled from the former Soviet arsenal. Thirteen years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States still has not made sure that tens of thousands of Soviet nuclear warheads are safely locked away.

Of the billions that we spend on defense, the relatively small amount that we would need to hire former Soviet scientists to help bring loose nukes under control would ultimately make the most difference in our defense against terrorists.

If we ever experience a nuclear explosion at the hands of terrorists, we will wonder why we didn't demand that our leaders do something before it was too late. We should all write our representatives in Washington and demand action to lock away loose nukes.

Betsy Fox
Greensboro

Friends and family of Sharon Moore, please begin taking up a collection and make the check payable to the News & Record's obituary department so I will have a "paid obituary" that speaks to my "good deeds and services to my country…" when I die. Hopefully, staff writer Jim Schlosser will be alive to write an article, as he did on March 15, "Vestal's death stirs memories of trial," concerning my friend, Gloyd Vestal.

Maybe Schlosser was bored and decided to look beyond his humanness to write such words about a man who can no longer defend himself. By reading the article, one would assume that Gloyd Vestal's life, deeds and service to his country did not warrant kind words unless his family paid to have these words in print. Schlosser displayed extremely poor judgment and lack of professional journalism.

No one has a right to pass judgment. One would guess Schlosser lacks compassion. He chose to intentionally direct negative remarks toward an individual who contributed positively in this world as a father, grandfather and friend.

K&W Cafeteria in Friendly Center, be alert for a 42-year-old, redheaded female with a big smile to dine with you and bring a friend. Who in Greensboro considers that a crime besides Jim Schlosser?

Sharon Moore
Greensboro

Following are some facts concerning the controversy in Sedgefield Lakes described in your article of March 8.

The homeowner's association (SELCO) is attempting to impose a restrictive covenant on the community. SELCO maintains that the covenant is necessary to maintain the property. This is false. Since 1956, we've had a voluntary association, which has supplied all of the necessary funding.

Fiscal 2004 was a typical year in which expenses totaled $9,079 while dues from the 107 members totaled $18,725, an excess of $9,646. At the end of the year, the treasury balance was $30,000. SELCO, under the voluntary membership, is in excellent financial health.

Under the new system, a property owner who wishes to enjoy the amenities we now have would be forced to sign a covenant that subjects the property to liens. Those of us who have been dues-paying members for decades will be kicked out if we don't sign. The injustice is obvious.

The SELCO spokesman states that 49 members have signed, but 74 are needed to meet expenses. Amazingly, we had 107 members in 2004 but are now trying to get 74. The irrationality of this scheme is obvious.

It's time that SELCO obey the adage: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

E.H. "Zeke" Hull
Greensboro

Greensboro Hadassah sincerely thanks Rep. Earl Jones for his introduction of an important piece of legislation, H632, affecting the lives of countless North Carolina citizens and families. Co-sponsors include Reps. Alma Adams and Maggie Jeffus.

This bill, "...to permit stem cell research under limited circumstances..." will open the door to healthy, honest discussion of what Hadassah regards as the "promise" of stem cell research.

Unknown numbers of people seek relief from devastating disease, affliction, disability and personal distress. We realize that at any moment, we or a loved one, may be confronted with an irreversible fact of life -- Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cancer, spinal cord injury, brain injury. Unavoidable outcomes are deep emotional, mental and spiritual distress; monstrous medical bills; and an uncertain future.

What can anyone do?

Rep. Jones courageously offers research (aided by funding for approved non-profit organizations) to extend hope to people seeking relief and repair. His proposed legislation treads lightly through the legal, ethical and personal maze of stem cell research, and respects an individual's right to give informed consent to become a donor.

Greensboro Hadassah encourages support for this dramatic breakthrough in recognizing our human responsibility to help one another.

Barbara Teichman
Greensboro

The writer is vice president, Greensboro Chapter of Hadassah.

I have been a sports fan for years and it is not limited to baseball. I understand fully the need to keep drugs out, but I do not feel the need for our Congress to be a part of this.

Do they not have poverty, health, wars and famine to work on?

Why are we paying them to do something that families should be doing?

Why aren't they doing what we are paying them to do?

I see no need in Congress being involved in this issue except to get congressional names in the paper and enhance a man who probably only told the tales to sell a book. I feel much pain for the families of athletes who died, but again, ask why they allowed it to happen.

I didn't with my children and I am a single parent.

Georgianna Nawa
Eden

Regarding Susan Charboneau's letter ("President's budget is hard on N.C. families," March 17):

I would like to say that the federal government and the American taxpayer did not take on the job of supporting the children of single parents. That is the responsibility of the father, and each mother should have the High Point Child Support Office locate the father and require him to pay for the needed support of his family.

If women would stop having illegitimate children and practice safe sex, they would not need the federal government's help, and we would not need so many government programs whose job is to suck more money from the taxpayer.

Perhaps the Child Support Office could teach abstinence and that would solve a lot of problems and would free federal dollars for other projects, such as closing down the Mexican border and hiring more border patrols; protecting the sanctity of marriage; and preserving the importance of a two-parent family.

The answer is not more government handouts for irresponsible women whose lifestyle is getting a free check from the federal government each month.

Virginia P. Garrett
Reidsville

Has anyone observed how many gang signature "tags" have been spray painted throughout Greensboro?

It looks like simple graffiti. However, I have been told by police this essentially brands an area's ownership by respective gangs. It signifies this as "their turf" and serves as an ominous logo.

I note these painted in Latham Park beneath the Wendover Avenue bridge and on the sidewalk. Drive down the alley way behind Lawndale Avenue shops and you'll find them on trash bins. They're popping up throughout every quadrant of the city.

I also see them on air handling units in my very public office parking lot. These symbols are even spray painted on public bridges throughout town -- and the remedy is fairly simple.

Could we not galvanize and take action to remove these troubling gang emblems? Why not mobilize beautification groups to turn out and help remove the spreading signs of gang involvement in Greensboro and reclaim our city?

Cynthia Adams
Greensboro

Editor's note: City Council member Sandy Carmany reports on her Web blog (http://sandycarmany.blogspot.com/)an upcoming effort by city police to clean graffiti.

Regarding the letter from Charles Hagans ("Our country has a right to be barbaric," March 16):

I hope it will give Mr. Hagans some comfort to learn that, surprisingly, a prisoner can be supported for many years for less money than it would cost to execute him or her. Thus, in most cases, a sentence of life without parole will represent a saving of Hagans' tax money by comparison with a death sentence.

Hagans obviously takes it for granted that all who are convicted of capital crimes are indeed guilty. That's an optimistic assumption, which, unfortunately, isn't always true.

Most prominently in North Carolina, Darryl Hunt spent 18 years in prison for a crime which DNA proved, a year or so ago, to have been committed by someone else.

Our mayor repeated recently what many have said for years, namely, that capital punishment is mostly punishment for those without capital.

One can only hope that the state legislature will in this session enact a moratorium on executions so that these matters can be examined.

Richard Cox
Greensboro

In reference to your March 13 editorial, "An artistic Sahara," you are right. If Mencken visited the Triad, his travelogue would be full of artistic riches. Without doubt, he would have made a stop and mention of our beloved Carolina Theatre.

Mencken could, and any Triad citizen, can enjoy a live performance by Eastern Music Festival artists, attend the Community Theatre of Greensboro's "Wizard of Oz," or see classic cinema, all happening at one time or another on the theater's majestic stage.

Since 1927, the Carolina Theatre has been a familiar landmark and a large part of our cultural landscape. "The Showplace of the Carolinas" has a long history of presenting thrilling acts and is breaking new ground by presenting independent films with Cinematique Carolina, a film series partially sponsored by the News & Record.

As the Carolina welcomes more than 75,000 people each year for a live concert to a sold-out crowd or a dance recital for families ... as she introduces school children to the glory of a local treasure ... she reminds our community that in what may have been an artistic Sahara, long ago, the arts are flourishing in a beautiful oasis, the Carolina Theatre.

Charles S. Brummitt
Greensboro

The writer is the volunteer chairman of Carolina Theatre Inc.

Burning down your house to build a fire to stay warm is effective, but, shortsighted, don't you think?

So is drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Now that Sens. Elizabeth Dole and Richard Burr have voted to allow drilling rather than show any foresight for developing an intelligent, long-term national energy plan, it's time to act on behalf of common sense.

According to U.S. Geological Surveys and our energy secretary, drilling today will take five to 10 years of effort and result in only one year's worth of oil but will forever waste one of the last wilderness areas in our care -- a home for natural treasures we have protected for over 50 years.

We can stop this shortsightedness by urging Budget Chair Nussle to remove language from the budget that would allow drilling. Call Rep. Howard Coble at (202) 225-3065 and request that he urge Nussle to keep the Budget Reconciliation free of Arctic Refuge oil drilling language.

Then call our myopic senators and tell them you support a long-term solution to our energy-troubles that does not include burning down national treasures for the sake of temporary warmth and convenience.

Todd Drake
Summerfield

How much information about cities' infrastructure (sewer, water, gas, power, etc., facilities and distribution networks) should be freely available online?

Chris Freeman seems to believe none. His comments appear aimed to incite widespread paranoia. The News & Record article ("Student's thesis uncovers cracks in U.S. security," March 13) notes that some disagree with Freeman but makes no serious attempt to outline the arguments against taking information off line.

We can't possibly predict all the positive contributions creative individuals might make using such information. But for starters, it could be used by citizens to assess the risk of a catastrophe (natural or man-made) in any given area. Vigilant citizens might use it to identify violators of environmental or zoning laws. Defenders of neighborhoods might find uses for it in public zoning hearings. Ease of access to information assists the good as well as the criminals.

Where's the balance? Should Greensboro's level of paranoia equal that of Rome (apparently saved by sound police work rather than information denial)?

Would hiding the details of sewer lines prevent an attack on a massive petroleum tank farm? Should we confiscate video cameras from everyone taping tall buildings? (Never mind if we're talking about Greensboro.)
David D. Williams
High Point

This letter is in response to the lottery article (March 14). What part of "$300 million spent by the people of North Carolina in other states for lottery tickets that could have been spent here in North Carolina" do they not understand?

Laura Wiley said in reference to other states having a lottery, "Everyone has probably heard from their parents, 'If everyone jumps off a bridge, does that mean you will too?' That is not an argument for me."

Well, dear Laura, if the rest of the representatives collected a salary for their positions and you did not, would you use that same argument?

Wiley and John Blust are against the lottery for what seem to be personal reasons. The last time I checked, "we the people" did not mean "I."

Are they not supposed to be representing the people of North Carolina? It's no wonder they don't want a referendum to give "we the people" the power to vote on it. It would show that they are not doing the job they were elected for -- to represent us, not themselves.
Randy Baldwin
Greensboro

Kudos to Richard Small (letter, March 9) for the rescue of the young dog shot in his neighborhood by the insensitive and cruel individuals who obviously have no regard for any kind of life.

Kudos also to the Greensboro Police Department if it was able to find and charge this person (or these people).

Now, in reading about all the pets being stolen in Greensboro to probably be used for dog fighting or baiting, I am even more disgusted. There is no doubt that the laws punishing individuals for animal abuse and cruelty should be made much more harsh.

Mankind is acquiring the unique distinction of being the most cruel animal on this earth.
Bess Taylor
Greensboro

For those not in the know, there is a sneak attack happening in Alaska. The current Senate federal budget bill includes a provision that allows oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Arctic oil drilling provisions do not belong in any budget measure.
Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., recently introduced an amendment that would have removed the provision allowing oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. This amendment lost by a vote of 49-51 with both of our North Carolina senators voting to allow drilling in the refuge.

President Bush and his Senate allies have resorted to a sneaky budget maneuver to get their way to benefit big oil. Now Congress is one step closer to trading away an irreplaceable national treasure for a few drops of oil that we would not see for a decade.

Additionally, the U.S. Geological Survey concluded that, given America's current rate of consumption, these oil reserves would likely hold only a 180-day supply.

Please contact our senators to tell them that any inclusion of oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in a budget bill is an unacceptable assault on our wildlife and wild lands.
Randy Schmitz
Oak Ridge

Recently, I heard on Public Radio news that the government is going to cut $40 billion from Medicaid nationwide. This will cause suffering and loss to those least able to absorb or replace this care: the elderly, children, disabled and sick people. It will cut out critical medical care for the poor.

Medicaid is the finest health insurance in the entire universe because it pays for all prescriptions. We should be proud that our generosity allows the federal government to take our taxes and provide at least a little something that is good and is not war and killing people.

We should also resist President Bush's efforts to destroy our Social Security system. My wife and I are retired, over 65, and are able to live decently on our two Social Security checks.

We need to teach our younger people how to pay off their credit cards, house payments and all other monthly payments as they get ready to retire. The real secret to retirement is not personal investment accounts but entering into retirement debt-free.
Please write your representatives and senators to object to these cuts.
Kermit M. Bailey
Kernersville

Where did you get your facts in the March 20 article on Herbert Hazelman: that he "was director of the band and orchestras from 1936-1978"?

Hazelman was the director of bands in the excellent music program of Greensboro (Grimsley) High School, but never the director of the orchestras or the orchestra program.

I am surprised that when you mentioned orchestras, you didn't refer then to J. Kimball Harriman, who developed the nationally recognized orchestra program at Senior (Grimsley) High School from 1941 to 1964, before he left to join the faculty of the University of Georgia.

There were invitations to perform. For example, in 1956, his orchestra played at the opening session of the Music Educators National Conference in St. Louis. In 1963, his orchestra became the first ever to be invited to perform at the well-known Mid-West Band Clinic in Chicago. Quite a tribute from the bandmasters.

I was an assistant to Kim Harriman during most of 1950-1962. His orchestra program was second to none. I was honored to be associated with him, a superior teacher, and to be able to work with the outstanding students of GHS.

R.A. Fredrickson
Greensboro

From the 1830s to the 1940s, access to rail lines meant life or death to most American cities and towns. If the North Carolina Railroad had been built along a different route, landlocked Greensboro would only be a small hamlet instead of a major city. The confluence of railways here made Greensboro "The Gate City" through which most trains had to pass (and still do) en route between Washington and points north, and Atlanta and points south.

Although automobiles and airplanes are now readily available modes of transportation, trains still fill a vital niche as efficient, economical, affordable and environmentally sound vehicles for freight and passengers. Amtrak, a federal government corporation which runs passenger trains, provides a vital transportation option for the Triad; six trains stop in Greensboro each day. The Bush administration's 2006 budget would eliminate funding for Amtrak, which would force eliminating reliable and necessary service to much of the country. Killing Amtrak while fully subsidizing highways and airlines is unconscionable.

Tell your representatives in Washington not to pass the budget without funding Amtrak enough to allow it to expand and modernize while continuing to provide reliable and on-time service.

Malcolm M. Kenton
Greensboro

Many people do not realize that Terri Schiavo is not experiencing the feelings of starvation or dehydration. Her body is unable to send the necessary signals to her brain to indicate these feelings of "thirst" or "hunger." In fact, in the end stages of dehydration, one commonly experiences a feeling of euphoria. This young woman is not suffering as a result of the removal of her feeding tube.

She is suffering simply as a result of our ambivalence as a society to feel responsible for the death of another human being. I cannot believe that this young lady would prefer to exist in this condition for one hour, much less for the rest of her life. Would you?

Laura Gaffney
Stokesdale

In his March 20 letter, Russell Kitchens blames the Democrats for the problems in Social Security today. He bases his opinion on false information, and the answers he gives for his Social Security quiz are wrong.

The 1983 legislation that increased Social Security taxes from 5.7 percent to 6.2 percent and subjected certain benefits to income tax was recommended by a committee chaired by Alan Greenspan. More Republicans than Democrats in the Senate supported the legislation, and Ronald Reagan signed it into law.

Because of Reagan's tax cut in 1981, the federal deficit skyrocketed in the 1980s. The Republicans in power until 1992 used this excess Social Security revenue to cover up the severity of the budget crisis.

Bill Clinton recognized the looming difficulties this shell game caused and decreased deficit spending. In 2000, the federal government had a $236 billion surplus and projected a $5.6 trillion surplus by 2010. George Bush gave that surplus to the wealthy in tax cuts and a record $5.2 trillion deficit is projected for the next 10 years.

You can check my facts at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/history/law.html.

Based on these facts, I trust the Democrats, not the Republicans, to save Social Security.

Denise Baker
Greensboro

I do not mean to disrespect Skip Alston, but I need him to clarify something for me. I keep hearing him talk about racism over here and racism over there. Was it racism when he got almost a million dollar loan and did not have to repay anything until he made a profit?

If this is what he calls racism, I sure would like him to tell me where I can get some.

Phillip T. Wrenn
Greensboro

I rarely agree with the editorials of the News & Record. From my perspective, the editors have never seen a new tax they did not think was justified, nor a new government spending program they do not like. I do want to commend you for the strong statement in the March 21 edition in opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

As long as our leaders see the answer to our energy needs as another hole drilled in the ground that may produce more oil, regardless of its impact on the environment, or continued support of the Saudis, we only delay the inevitable of the gas lines of the early 1970s and economic stress. Encouraging the use of more oil is not an energy policy.

Jerry S. Weston
Greensboro

The following is a Counterpoint column:

By Fred H. Gregory

I am writing in response to the editorial, "Drilling in Arctic a costly pipe dream,"( March 21).

This factually challenged opinion piece used all the usual environmentally correct terms to negatively describe the U.S. Senate's approval of oil drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR): shortsighted, dirty shame, despoiling the landscape (twice), nonsense, damaging the tundra and wildlife, etc. Problem is, while they get emotional response from some groups, these claims are groundless.

Let's examine some realities through the fog of all this hyperbole.

First of all, the ANWR consists of 19 million acres of dark, 70- degrees-below-zero vastness. In the event oil is discovered there, only 2,000 acres of the costal plain would be affected by production activity (one-half of 1 percent).

The Office of Management and Budget estimates that $4.4 billion in revenue will be raised from bonus bids. Hundreds of thousands of jobs will be created.

Presently, North Slope production is having a positive economic impact on all 50 states. The same results would no doubt follow if ANWR is added to the mix.

It is a myth that this activity would harm the Caribou herds. In the Prudhoe Bay area, the herd has grown from 3,000 to 32,000. Have many Americans have ever seen a Caribou except on the pages of National Geographic?

The claims of potential damage to the area repeated ad nauseam by the editorial are greatly exaggerated. Advanced technology has reduced the "footprint" of arctic oil development.

There could be as many as 16 billion barrels of recoverable oil in ANWR.

Finally, in contrast to the invalid pap from the News & Record's editors, Gale Norton, U.S. Secretary of the Interior, presented a valid, convincing and coherent case for drilling ANWR in The New York Times on March 14, "Call of the mild," for those of you who just might be interested in the truth.

By the way, 75 percent of Alaska's citizens favor the president's plan.

The native peoples closest to the most likely drill site also support the idea.

The writer lives in Greensboro.

City officials voicing opposition to the Truth and Reconciliation Project ("Inquiry shaping how city is perceived," News & Record, March 23) struck me as people forming opinions from a thickly insulated view.
Even as Mayor Keith Holliday admits he would have voted the Klan guilty of the 1979 murders, he simultaneously fails to understand how redressing the issue would be healing. This is very hard to grasp.
I have lived in Greensboro 14 years and learned about the 1979 massacre when UNCG produced the commemorative play a few years ago. The injustice of these Klan members receiving acquittals was something I felt as a personal affront.
I know hundreds of others in the community who carry similar sentiments. The reluctance of our official leaders to embrace community initiative toward reconciliation rubs salt more deeply into the wound.
It is not the Truth and Reconciliation Project which is painting a distasteful image of Greensboro; rather, it is the resistance of highly visible people in positions of leadership and power that makes us look like a "racist backwater."
Those companies and young adults who would be attracted to a city redressing such a deep injustice in its history are exactly the ones I want to see locating here.
Tracey M. Brown
Greensboro

I have been following the 1979 shootings story with wonder and amusement. Having lived through it I find it amazing that this is our only claim to fame. It was an event then; it is a non-event now.
I have a memory of a CBS reporter standing at the top of Friendly Avenue with the Jefferson-Pilot Building in the background, describing Greensboro as a town tensely divided. It was false then and is false now.
To compare life in Greensboro with apartheid in South Africa is pretentious and ridiculous. Prior to this series of articles, and excepting anniversaries, I know of no one who has had any interest in this relic, the possible exceptions being the Communist Workers Party and the Ku Klux Klan
John Bernard
Greensboro

As an aunt to one of the teenagers killed in the SUV crash, Jordan Hodgin, I have to say the News & Record and other media sources were completely irresponsible on their reports of the crash.
In order to get the "sensationalized" version of the story, you didn't wait for the blood test or official reports before you slandered the families involved in the crash. I don't care if the information came from the Highway Patrol during the first 15 minutes of the accident, you should have waited for the blood test to come in for the correct version. There was not a single item found in the car or consumed by the kids to have made that assumption.
Blame yourselves and take responsibility for your own reporting instead of the guesswork of other people.
Jill Murray
Greensboro

Citizens do not want oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The oil produced would be years in the future and only small amounts would be produced. There would be great environmental damage to many kinds of wildlife.
Mazie Levenson
Bill Tally
Greensboro

President Bush says he truly cares for the poor but his actions do not match his words. His administration has slashed funds for low-income mothers and dramatically reduced funding for his "No Child Left Behind" program, subsidized housing, Medicaid, and veterans' benefits.
It is perhaps cynical to conclude that his administration obtained tax cuts for the wealthy but only has crumbs to trickle down to the poor. But he says there is no money for social programs (after all, it is wartime), yet he channels social service funds to faith-based organizations. It is not enough.
The working poor need affordable housing, access to health care and a livable wage. The biblical understanding of justice derives from a generous God who liberated his people from oppression and gave them justice.
Our problem is there is not a lack of piety in high places, but a gap between personal piety and public morality. The right-wing evangelicals do not exhibit compassion. When will the mainline clergy have the courage to speak the truth against this hypocrisy? Christ came to shake the foundations of those pious ones who are safe and comfortable in their faith.
Gaylord Hageseth
Greensboro

Everyone's missing the real Terri Schiavo story. Didn't she resort to starvation dieting to lose weight that brought on a heart attack and put her in the state she's in? Young girls should be warned about trying this.
Also, who's paying for her round-the-clock care? If the parents are religious, they should "let go and let God." Her suffering will be over, and she'll be at peace.
Middy Anderson
Greensboro

Last week, Mimi Stang, a long-time Greensboro resident, passed away. I wanted to add my voice to what I'm sure is the chorus singing Mimi's praises.
I first met Mimi when she took one of my writing classes. She was widowed, a retired educator who had more energy than most teenagers. Her laughter, her insight, her wisdom and her enthusiasm made her an immediate favorite with her classmates and me. Her joie de vivre was contagious and her sassy attitude kept the class in stitches.
She will be greatly missed and it was an honor to know her.
Anne Barnhill
Wilkesboro

The following is a Counterpoint article:
By Richard J. Rosen, M.D.
State Sen. Katie Dorsett and a co-sponsor, Kay Hagan, have introduced legislation in the N.C. Senate, and Rep. Alma Adams, with co-sponsors Bernard Allen, Pricey Harrison and Maggie Jeffus, has introduced identical legislation in the House that would give the City Council the power to make the Greensboro Coliseum's lobby smoke-free.
A state law mandates that part of the lobby of every arena in North Carolina permit smoking. Despite this law, the RBC Center in Raleigh and the Charlotte Coliseum are smoke-free, and the future home of the Charlotte Bobcats will be smoke-free. The Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill is exempt from this law as it was smoke-free prior to 1993, when the law was passed.
The Greensboro city attorney, with advice from the Institute of Government, has insisted that legislative relief is necessary for the City Council to take this healthy step. Mayor Keith Holliday and the War Memorial Commission, which oversees the Coliseum Complex, want to make the coliseum smoke-free.
There is no question second-hand smoke is a health hazard. It increases heart attacks and makes asthma worse. Children whose parents smoke make more emergency room visits and suffer more bronchitis, ear infections and reduced lung function.
In Helena, Mont., the rate of heart attacks was 40 percent lower during a six-month period when smoking was banned in public places.
Many potential coliseum patrons with breathing disorders are forced to stay away from events because of the smoke that clouds the lobby.
As clear-cut as the health of spectators may be, another factor looms for Greensboro. We host the 2006 and 2010 ACC men's basketball tournaments.
With expansion to 12 teams, there will be four games each of the first two days of play, meaning 23,000 spectators during each of those sessions. Smoke will fill the lobby and wind its way to the concourse and seated areas.
It will be unhealthy and unsightly. If we can't prevent this, we may hurt our chances to host this lucrative event in the future.
We should all urge the entire Guilford delegation in the General Assembly to help Sens. Dorsett and Hagan, and Reps. Adams, Harrison and Jeffus steer these bills through, so we can have a smoke-free coliseum.

The writer lives in Greensboro.

I am very proud of the new baseball stadium downtown and feel it is such a wonderful addition and drawing card to Greensboro and the surrounding areas. I hope the bleachers will be full to capacity at every game.
But I have a thought. Wouldn't it be a good thing if stadium owners would entertain the thought of allowing our schools and their students who play softball and baseball to have their playoffs in the stadium? It might cost them a few dollars but they've already spent so much. What's a little more money at this point? Think of the goodwill in our community that they would help create, not to mention the very happy parents of these kids.

What an exciting time they would allow these kids to have, and think of the memories they would take with them the rest of their lives. We have beautiful parks and fields that their games are played on during the season. (I know, I've watched my granddaughter, Brooke Morris, play for Grimsley.) But to finish the big season in a stadium such as ours would be the icing on the cake.

Liz White
Greensboro

Much of the Iraq war is hidden from us. President Bush excluded $64 billion to fund the war from the already expanded $420 billion military budget.

There are the coffins of 1,511 Americans that cannot be photographed. Officials never mention the Iraqi dead. Iraqbodycount.net numbers the civilian dead at 17,186.

There are the hidden wounds. A social worker at a North Carolina military base writes of stress disorders: "One was forced by his superior to run over a woman with a child trying to stop a convoy … another shot into a crowd and saw children die." Hundreds of detainees are still hidden from our justice system.

What is hidden builds anger against us. "Our policies in the Middle East fuel Islamic resentment," Vice Adm. Jacoby, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, told senators, noting the increasing "size and complexity" of the insurgency. This war did not uncover nuclear weapons or link Saddam Hussein and al-Qaida, so our word "war" hides another perception: invasion.

The violence of the "war on terror" is a recruitment tool for terrorists, endangering both ourselves and the Iraqis. We need a real exit strategy fast.

Anne Cassebaum
Elon

Regarding "Growth Spurt" (March 20), the problem can be solved by the developer paying to widen Horse Pen Creek Road to four lanes from Battleground to New Garden Road.

With three private schools, Greensboro Country Club (Carlton Farms location), Spears YMCA, and the Carolyn Allen Park, the tax base will not pay to widen Horse Pen Creek Road.

If a developer like Portrait Homes paid its share to move traffic in and out of its projects, all developers should pay to widen two lanes to four-lane streets.

Oak Ridge, Stokesdale and Summerfield should annex the property before Greensboro does.

With Horse Pen Creek, Fleming Road, Old Oak Ridge Road and the new FedEx hub, what we are experiencing today is only a tip of the iceberg. "Growth: Officials play catch-up" are only words. With tax base from the development, we will never catch up.

Ken Tousey
Greensboro

Why is the Republican leadership willing to turn the full attention of Congress on the sad plight of one woman's tragedy while letting countless Americans face poor health, bankruptcy and death from lack of health care?

Why does the Republican leadership glorify the sanctity of marriage while denying Michael Schiavo's right to make medical decisions for his incapacitated wife?

Why does the Republican leadership declare it immoral to discontinue Terri Schiavo's care while acting to slash the very Medicaid funding that has paid for that care? The answer can be found in the Republican talking points memo describing Terri Schiavo's tragic plight as "a great political issue."

The absurd hypocrisy of the Republican leadership defies description. In these dangerous times, Congress should attend to pressing fiscal, domestic and international issues at hand and leave this family tragedy to be sorted out by the family.

After all, who would you want to make your medical decisions for you if you were incapacitated? Your spouse, or Tom DeLay and Bill Frist? I would choose the one who would not describe my plight as "a great political issue."

Steve Bird
Greensboro

Greensboro lost one of its best last week in the death of Mimi Stang. Mimi was truly one of a kind, blazing her own trail and grabbing life with both hands and making the most of it. Above all, she loved people and could connect with anyone, anytime.

She had an amazing gift for making friends and being a true friend, impacting the lives of everyone in her path. She was involved in countless organizations, leaving an indelible mark on our community. Her spirit will remain, and I myself hope to honor her by living a genuine life, enjoying every moment and relishing in this great journey we call life. If anyone knew how to live, it was Mimi. She will be missed.

Liz Summers
Greensboro

Oil and gas prices are at a record high. Exxon reports record quarterly profits. The rights of working people and families trampled again.

Bob Davidson Jr.
Greensboro

Years ago, people made efforts to avoid offending minorities; we called it "politically correct." Many saw this as a bad thing.
Now we hear the producers of IMAX films are concerned about offending creationists and may work to avoid mentioning evolution in their films.

Can we call this "religiously correct"?

I don't know about other folks, but I think this attempt to squash science and keep it hidden is going too far. We need to be clear on this. Trying to limit science in its efforts to understand the universe will harm people.

History shows a perfect example. In the 1930s, the Soviet Union repressed agricultural scientists in their efforts to develop grain that would better help feed their country. Mendelian genetic theories went against Hegel and Marx's philosophy, so the scientists were told to stay in line with acceptable philosophy. The resulting disaster spelled starvation for millions of Russians.

Trying to make biology "religiously correct" will spell ruination for medical research for a long time to come. Of all the things this country needs, particularly in this highly competitive world, religion-driven biology is not one of them.

Eric Harrington
Greensboro

The writer is a member, the Piedmont Freethought Association.

As citizens of this great country, we allow our federal government to become involved with the activities of a recreational pastime such as ball games.

How, then, can we possibly object to a special action taken by that same body involving itself in a matter critical to a case of life or death?

Marion J. King
Greensboro

Regarding the March 22 article, "College iffy for illegal immigrants":

Education should be a right, not a privilege of having a Social Security number or the right amount in ones bank account. Immigrants to this country come for many reasons; all which involve bettering their life. Our higher education system imposes a glass ceiling on these individuals' potential.

Once in the United States, these individuals are faced with many challenges. Many come with no money or family to depend on. How many native-born citizens, could have made it where we are without money or family support? When one of these individuals finally overcomes all of the obstacles placed in his or her way by our institutions, our society seems to find another barrier to make their life even more difficult.

College entrance should not be determined by one's Social Security number, or lack of one, but grades and achievements. By putting limits to education we might be excluding the person that will cure AIDS or cancer. Whom is that not fair to?

Kate Macesich
Greensboro

The News & Record reported that only five of 21 area officials and three of 27 aviation sector committee members attended a recent PTI noise meeting.

This is not surprising since these are the people that know that each aircraft generates its own discrete cloud of noise and that no mathematical manipulation is going to reduce the level by averaging over a 24-hour period.

Perhaps the objective of this committee has been met. A recent map in the News & Record showed that the fictitious 65DNL contour has been reduced, which suggests that the number of homes that qualify for compensation will be reduced (money saved?).

Perhaps these people also know that in the final analysis, the FAA will determine planes' approaches, not noise.

The FAA will define safe-fly and no-fly zones. Pilots will request routes within these designated areas. And air traffic control operators will approve the requests considering flight safety of all aircraft.

Daniel McMillin
Greensboro

Cal Thomas' column, "Evangelicals drift from their mission" (March 16), made me think of the Great Commission of Jesus: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them. ...: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20).

It is consistent with those teachings that "the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress [=work] it and to keep [=watch] it." (Genesis 2:15). Yet, Thomas took issue with the Rev. Rich Cizik of the National Association of Evangelicals, who said, "I don't think God is going to ask us how he created the earth, but he will ask us what we did with what he created."

I would like to put in a word for that creation. "God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good" (Genesis 1:31). I think Rev. Cizik has not drifted far from Jesus' Great Commission. I hope that to work for and watch over the earth is part of Jesus' calling to all evangelical Christians and is the Creator's intent for all human beings.

The Rev. Thomas Droppers
Greensboro

There are many obstacles that keep persons with disabilities from living up to their full potential but none is more frustrating than a person with a superior attitude. Recently, I had an appointment to have my eyes examined. I have Cerebral Palsy and my speech is difficult to understand, so I use a laptop computer to communicate.
When I arrived at the doctor's office, I told the receptionist my name and she helped me with the necessary paperwork. At first, the receptionist was nice and gave me enough time to type the answers. However, when we finished the paperwork, the receptionist turned to the other lady in the office and said, "They should never let him out by himself." Her comment angered me. I felt like a little child and wanted to leave the office.

I have a degree in sociology from UNCG and I am the public awareness coordinator for The Joy A. Shabazz Center for Independent Living. It is not having a disability that limits my potential to have a fulfilling life. Rather, the attitudinal barriers placed on the disability community by the general public are the real disabilities.

Dennis Burgess
Greensboro

I applaud Rep. Earl Jones' courage and compassion in sponsoring the Stem Cell Research and Wellness Act (H632) now before the North Carolina General Assembly.

I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 1998. Parkinson's stole my ability to synchronize my thoughts and movements. I have difficulty in the mundane movements that many of us take for granted, like getting dressed in the morning, being able to write legibly, to walk, to hug my wife and kiss my son.

Back in 1998, I had a promising professional career and bright future. My family led a busy social life. That changed very rapidly. Within a few years, I could no longer work and my wife had gone to work full time. We couldn't go out in the evening. I was essentially confined to our house. Such was the horror that Parkinson's had wreaked on our family.

I and the other 1.5 million Americans suffering from this dreadful disease need hope, hope that there will be a treatment in the near future which will prevent us from becoming prisoners, locked within our own bodies. Stem cells provide us hope through their potential to replace the dead brain cells that cause Parkinson's Disease.

Michael Jacobson
Greensboro

Why am I not surprised that the Guilford County school board is considering giving itself a pay raise?

All I hear from the board is how it doesn't have enough money to fund all the educational needs in the county. I realize that the total amount of these increases is not significant in the overall budget. However, if times are tough the board should be showing leadership by refusing to consider a raise. They knew how much they would be paid when elected so if this is not enough for them now, they can simply resign their positions effective immediately.

I know a number of people who could do a much better job of running our school system and would be willing to do so without compensation. What have we gotten from this group? For starters, we have the infamous High Point "choice plan" debacle, which has proven to be a failure; the debate over where to place magnet schools; the list goes on and on.

Perhaps if they actually took action instead of talking all the time we could see some progress. This board has to be the weakest and poorest run group in the history of Guilford County.

Steve Sumner
Summerfield