Local vet’s well-satisfied with VA’s care
For years I have been reading about how bad VA medical service is. Reports have referenced VA hospitals that I am unfamiliar with, so my reaction was generally puzzlement. The article, “Atlanta VA rated one of worst in nation” (News, Sept. 29), brought it into focus. If the Atlanta VA is in the lower 10 percent bracket for VA hospitals, people need a new criterion for evaluation. Complainers should include civilian hospital quality of service and costs when ranking medical care. Even the Atlanta Falcons have lower 10 percent players on their roster. I am 82 years old. The care I have received from the Atlanta/Lawrenceville VA has been no less than equal to any other medical care I have ever received – better than most civilian care. Conversations I have had with friends and business associates involving civilian care and wait times have reinforced how fortunate I am.
PAUL G. RICE, COVINGTON
Biomass fuel’s pollution must be addressed
Our city is known as the “city in a forest” for good reason. With 36 percent tree coverage in Atlanta, our city is more densely forested than others. I take pride in showing visitors the parks that are home to our old growth forests. I can’t help but feel a sense of urgency in preserving our forests, both locally and nationally. The southeastern United States is the largest exporter of biomass to Europe. The notion that burning biomass is a clean form of energy is absolutely flawed. Burning biomass releases more pollutants and carbon emissions into the atmosphere than coal. While we are in fervent conversation to shut down coal-firing plants, we must include discussion on the true impacts of the biomass industry. Let’s remember that our city is in a forest – not the other way around. Let’s include the biomass industry in our conversations in the upcoming election cycle.
ANGELA JIANG, ATLANTA
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