Firing fire chief has evil precedent
When Atlanta Mayor Reed fired Fire Chief Cochran, he was saying that no one who has a different religious belief from the mayor is allowed to work for the city of Atlanta, unless he is willing to shut up and keep his religious beliefs hidden. Who else have we heard about that has that same policy? Oh yes, the Taliban. This is a sad day for the city.
BILL WHITLOW, AUBURN
It took leadership to fire errant chief
It took brave leadership for Mayor Kasim Reed to fire Kelvin Cochran. This city has so much potential to be viewed on the same level as cities like Chicago, New York or Los Angeles. So often, we are held back by people who believe they are working for and speaking for God — the same reason people storm offices and kill others, blow themselves up or run planes into buildings. We should all focus on using religion and spirituality to nourish our own personal spirits and for helping others. Fewer people would die.
DALE DUNCAN, ATLANTA
2 parents needed for kids to succeed
My wife and I raised five children. They were not permitted to watch TV on school nights. While one of us cleaned up after supper, the other supervised the children and helped them where needed. They all went on to graduate from college and lead productive lives. Five of our nine grandchildren have graduated from college; one is currently attending, and another is close behind.
In today’s AJC, I read Governor Deal wants the state to take over failing schools (and) to give the state the authority to shutter failing schools. He avers: “Money alone will not solve the problem.” On that count, I agree. But having two parents might. Why does not the press in our country recognize the need for two-parent homes and lead a massive campaign to promote marriage? The alternative is to continue to promote failing programs that consume resources without producing results.
DENNIS BALLOU, ATLANTA
Don’t tie voting right to having an ID
George Will suggested that attorney general nominees not be asked about possible “voter suppression” laws, because doing so would be tantamount to asking about “travel suppression” laws. Maybe nominees should be asked if they understand the difference between a “right” and a “privilege.” Americans in this country have a “right” to travel. However, even Americans must obey prescribed laws to have the “privilege” of traveling in a more convenient fashion, such as by automobile or plane.
All American citizens have the “right” to vote. This right should not be impinged by whether or not they have an ID. This country already has too much history of limiting certain citizens’ right to vote (e.g. blacks, women).
MARK TUNE, BLUE RIDGE
