Don’t give up on America
To the editor:
I know we have some problems today in our country, but I’ve lived through other times when our leaders got together and solved them. We will do it again, but we must get off the political posture on both sides and do what is best for America.
To begin with, we must balance the budget and create a new tax code that is fair to all income levels. We still have the greatest country in the world with freedom, democracy and capitalism; but some changes in the capitalism need to happen.
To mention a few problems, when CEOs on Wall Street took those huge bonuses when their stock company failed, then the government (we) had to bail them out, resulting in many folks losing their 401k savings for retirement. This is wrong.
Also, we must find a way to keep manufacturers from moving their companies overseas for cheaper labor. Workers unions became another problem with their over-the-top demands and strikes to achieve their objective, putting our automobile manufacturers in the states unable to compete with foreign companies without unions. I think we need organized labor with reasonable goals that is good for both management and labor.
Finally, I think it is time for our country to rethink our foreign policy. I think we have far too many bases and troops all over the world. I know we’ve done some good in these countries since World War II; but, I believe we need to close bases in many places now because we cannot afford it and I don’t think it is needed now. This could result in quite a savings in money and lives. As far as protecting ourselves against terrorism, this is a war of the minds and culture and is not territorial. In fact, it might help to get out of many of these countries and improve homeland security. Look, I know this is a huge change and not a simple thing to do; but, I think we must begin to make some of these changes and get started on a debt-free and a more secure nation.
I believe we will make the necessary changes that will keep us a nation where we love freedom and where dreams can still come true for those who work hard to make their dreams come true.
Jack Myers
Hagerstown
Whose truth is the real truth?
To the editor:
The letter is addressed to the Rev. Don Stevenson. In answer to your guest column of Nov. 9, the Bible you claim to believe contains the following: “If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don’t invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement.” 2 John 1:10
If my truth is my truth, and their truth is their truth, who has the real truth? What if my truth says your truth is a lie? Is it still truth?
If the Bible is the inspired word of God, and I believe it is, then even God reveals to us that the doctrine of his son, Jesus, is to be protected and prized, not blended and cheapened.
John R. Miller Jr.
Maugansville
Editor’s note: The above letter was reprinted to correct errors made in the initial editing process.
Boys, coaches, moms deserve recognition
To the editor:
I think there are a few things you should know about some wonderful third- and fourth-grade boys. These boys played a complete season without a loss — an unblemished record of 8-0. For as young as the little guys are, this was a huge accompishment, one that is not being noticed for these young men.
My son plays on this team and is not a star player, but was treated as if he was. All of this came from our wonderful coaching staff and the two team mothers who gave up their free time and spent hours upon hours with this remarkable group of boys.
These coaches gave their time and energy, patience and understanding, and commitment for free. Everything is volunteer on their ends. Our boys worked hard and practiced even harder to have this outstanding accomplishment.
These boys should get a “shout out” and the recognition they so deserve. The recognition needs to also be shined on the volunteer coaches and team moms for their exceptional dedication to these most-rewarding boys.
Our coaches were Josh and Buddy Swartz and Chris Carpenter and team moms were Darla Carpenter and Joellen Swartz. I just think in this day and time that so much focus is given to the tragic events surrounding us. This is a shining star with children being taught teamwork, good sportsmanship and the value of dedication, and a promise kept.
Kelli Lushbaugh
Fairplay
Count me in favor of a new senior center
To the editor:
Please include me as being definitely for a new senior center. I just hope the digging starts now so I can applaud the beginning of a delightful, health-giving opportunity for seniors. I thought it all had been decided, and voted on and financed, etc.
I don’t understand why anyone would waste their time and carry negative feelings about the holiday present that the Commissioners are giving this community.
Charlotte Levens
Intergenerational Program Coordinator
Washington County Commission on Aging
