Readers Write 01/05

ETHICS

All gifts from lobbyists need to be banned

I’m certain most thinking citizens desire serious ethics reform. We applaud any efforts toward reform, particularly those of state Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver and those supporting her objectives.

But it’s obvious that to restore reasonable faith in the system, what has to happen is that all gifts from lobbyists to legislators — monetary or otherwise — must be banned or outlawed completely! Any gifts should be disallowed.

No money or other gifts should ever pass between those seeking to influence legislation and those duly elected to represent the people.

R. Cary Bynum, Atlanta

SPORTS

Tiger’s wife made deal, deserves no sympathy

Tiger Woods’ wife is not a victim. She is just like all the ladies who willingly participated in Tiger’s escapades.

The only difference is that Elin held the No. 1 position with executive privileges. Elin knew who and what she was getting involved with. That is why there was a lucrative prenuptial agreement.

She has a golden parachute. It was a personal business arrangement that ran its course. No need to feel sorry for her — she got paid handsomely for her so-called troubles.

The real tragedy is the hypocrites and self-righteous who still believe marriage changes human nature. It never has, and it never will.

Kevin Palmer, Martinez

ECONOMY

Legal immigration makes recession worse

The U.S. is experiencing the worst recession since the Great Depression. Many Americans are out of work and suffering. We should not be bringing in more refugees until the recession is over. The United States will bring in over 1 million legal immigrants this year. This influx of refugees and immigrants will only compete with out-of-work Americans and burden government services. Stop the influx until the recession is over.

Walter Watkins, Atlanta

GOVERNMENT

Franklin’s bad attitude should be remembered

Mayor Shirley Franklin is leaving office the way she came in: arrogant and incompetent. How dare she be proud of the fact that her record will show her performance “good, bad or indifferent.” The voters need to remember her parting shots, if she chooses to run for a higher office.

Michael Fedack, Atlanta

HEALTH CARE

Religious disapproval no basis for restrictions

Why are they even talking about abortion? It’s a legal medical procedure. If we are making restrictions to health care based on a small group’s religious beliefs, then why stop at abortion? Some religions disapprove of organ transplants, blood transfusions and genetic counseling — why not include those procedures as well?

If the Jehovah’s Witnesses insist that blood transfusions not be covered, will the Congress appease them (or do they not have a lobbyist with sufficient funds to grease congressional palms)?

Donna Gore, Roswell