ETHICS
AJC should keep asking tough questions at Gold Dome
I’d like to commend the AJC for the continued investigation into the Gov. Deal ethics complaints. Following this story in the paper has changed me from a “sports section first, scan front page second, opinion page third, go to metro” reader to someone who pays a lot more attention to stories in Section A with state/local importance. Something smells bad at the Gold Dome, please keep it up until you uncover the source of the stench. I would also like to comment on the Feb. 10 story on Richard Jackson. The line “Last week, a bill with striking parallels to the Florida law…” got my attention. I suspect that the Florida law was written by ALEC and is being lobbied hard in numerous state legislatures as is their practice, hence the “striking parallels.” Maybe you could look deeper into that connection. The Jackson story is also a great example of how money equals access/influence in American politics.
MIKE HUTCHISON, ATLANTA
TAXI DRIVERS
Knowledge of English, city seriously lacking
Although I live in Alpharetta, I choose to stay at a downtown hotel each year for a large trade show at which my company exhibits. Being local, I have a reasonable knowledge of downtown Atlanta, which comes in handy when taking a taxi somewhere, as so many of the taxi drivers seem to have limited knowledge of downtown and barely speak English. More than once, I have had to tell the taxi driver how to get to our destination. Those coming from out of town are certainly at a disadvantage when taking a taxi here.
Whatever the standards are for obtaining a license to drive a taxi, they are not high enough. Atlanta has far too many conventions, sporting events and other meetings to have such dismal taxi service.
MIKE DEAL, ALPHARETTA
LIBRARY CUTS
Fulton’s facilities are vital to communities
I’m writing to express displeasure that libraries in Fulton County are being closed and/or having their hours reduced. Our libraries are such a vital part of our society and function in so many different ways - places to seek out information, learning, entertainment, and a chance to connect with others. My local library on a Friday afternoon is a busy place filled with people reading, studying, checking out books, watching videos, researching, coloring - all enjoying a safe and inviting environment. An open and welcoming library is one of the best parts of America, in my opinion. A place where all ages, races, economic levels, and religions can find a safe place and equal access to information. I hope this cutback is temporary and I urge our Fulton County Commissioners to strive to reverse these cuts as soon as possible.
RACHEL BILLER, ALPHARETTA
