MARTA

Agency tone-deaf to real needs

Few public agencies more consistently show tone-deafness to public concerns than MARTA ("Five Points makeover," Page 1, CityLife, Feb. 14). Not once have I heard the complaint "there aren't enough shrubs in the stations." Here are the three issues, not one of which is addressed by MARTA's "improvements":

First, MARTA never increases the number or frequency of trains during holidays, sporting events, concerts, festivals and the like. Second, it's often impossible to know a train's destination or where it is at the moment. Make sure cars are marked outside, and require all drivers to announce —- in loud and distinct tones —- the current stop and ultimate destination at every stop. Third, fix or replace out-of-service escalators. The point is not to enjoy your stay in the station; it's to move through the station quickly and safely to your destination.

ROY M. SOBELSON, Atlanta

Tokyo's system worth emulating

I recently took a business trip to Japan. One of the things that impressed me most was the public transportation system. It was a fully integrated system of trains, subways and buses. You could go anywhere in Tokyo you wanted. The trains and stations were bright and clean. The trains ran on time. The employees were helpful and courteous. This system moved hundreds of thousands of people each day with no apparent problems. It was truly a marvel.

Upon my return, I was leaving Hartsfield-Jackson and noticed a MARTA train pulling into the airport. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

BOB SKINNER, Ball Ground

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Consume meat at your peril

The recall of 143 million pounds of beef by the U.S. Department of Agriculture should provide a loud and clear wakeup call that federal inspection is not adequate to ensure a safe meat supply ("Beef from Calif. maker recalled," News, Feb. 18).

This largest meat recall in U.S. history was actually brought on by an animal rights organization's undercover video showing California slaughterhouse workers using kicks, electric shock, high-pressure water hoses and a forklift to force sick or injured animals onto the kill floor. USDA regulations prohibit sick animals from entering the food supply because of the high risk of contamination by E. coli, salmonella or mad-cow disease.

About 37 million pounds of the recalled meat went to school lunch and other federal programs since October 2006, and almost all of it is likely to have been consumed, according to a USDA official.

Parents must insist that the USDA stop using the National School Lunch Program as a dumping ground for surplus commodities. The rest of us must learn to treat meat, particularly ground beef, as a hazardous substance to be consumed at one's own peril.

ALBY DAVIS, Atlanta

Rev. James Orange inspired with his devotion, reassuring spirit

James Orange has passed away ("Civil rights leader the Rev. James Orange: Indispensable," Obituaries, Feb. 18). What a great loss to our community and the continuing struggle for justice. I can hardly remember participating in a civil rights march or meeting to plan a major observance in the movement without a warm hug from the Rev. Orange. His spirits and magical voice reassured us when we were afraid and inspired us when we were celebrating.

We have lost treasured friends and devoted advocates for civil rights with the deaths of Coretta Scott King, Dora McDonald and now James Orange. Their memory will always be a blessing to those of us privileged to know them.

SHERRY FRANK

Frank is former executive director of the American Jewish Committee, Atlanta Chapter.