PUBLIC SECTOR
Privatizaton doesn’t make sense for some jobs
The writer of the letter “‘Prevent fraud, handle public works directly” (Readers write, Opinion, Aug. 9) is spot on.
In addition to removing the corruption of private companies bribing politicians, it just makes sense for some industries to be in the hands of the public. There are certain services that are so essential to everyday living that they should not be left to the private sector (whose first priority is profit). If government’s reason for existing is to protect and serve citizens, these should fall under the “public” sector. A short list should include national defense; maritime management; communication infrastructure; garbage pick-up; police; prisons; fire departments; basic education; parks; agriculture, and health care.
GARY HUNNICUTT, LILBURN
EDUCATION
Instill a love of learning and rest will handle itself
We are so concerned about money (of which there’s never enough), that we miss the real meaning of education. There are really only three things that lay the foundation of a great education. I used this approach, and I have a great daughter (who is on her way to a fulfilling and successful life) to show for it.
The tenets are as follows: make sure children can read, and look at it not as a chore, but recreation, and the portal to learning. Instill a lifelong love of learning - once again, not as a chore, but something children enjoy. And finally, see step #1. It’s really not that complicated. We live in a golden age of information, and, if children are encouraged to seek it out, they’ll connect the dots - right away!
RICHARD VOORHIS, CUMMING
MILITARY BENEFITS
Retirees were never promised a nearby commissary
As much as it pains me to criticize fellow military retirees, I find it astonishing that so many have written to complain about
the closing of a commissary that happened to be geographically close to where they happened to retire.
Several have alluded to “broken promises”. During my 25-year career in the Army, I was never, ever promised that wherever I happened to retire, a military commissary would be close enough for me to shop there. The claim is absurd, and gives the appearance of another interest group demanding “stuff” without consideration of the cost to the taxpayers.
JOHNEY R. FRIAR, AUBURN
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
State parks would be cheaper conference sites
“Posh training for tax officials” (News, Aug. 12) at a conference? That riles my tightwad tendencies no end. Have our tax officials never heard of our delightful state parks? Have they never heard of their lovely lodges, delicious dining and large meeting rooms at sensible rates?
A pox on posh. Down with toadie tax officials. They can cut corners just like the rest of us.
CATHERINE BOONE SHEALY, ATLANTA
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