GOVERNANCE
Democrats also must be open to compromise
When I see or hear a call for “ultra conservatives” to compromise to “move the country forward,” I have to wonder (“To govern, we must be willing to compromise,” Readers write, Opinion, Sept. 11).
Neither I, nor most Republicans (and almost no conservatives) share any political principles with Democrats. Why should Republicans always be called on to compromise? Is it the position of Democrats and their supporters that their principles are moral — while those of Republicans are not?
President Obama has never offered a meaningful compromise on any of his or his party’s principles or agenda. Those who call on Republicans to abandon their principles should likewise be calling on President Obama, Senator Reid, Minority Leader Pelosi and Democrat members of the House and Senate to do likewise.
EDWARD A. WATKINS, LILBURN
MASS TRANSIT
With code of conduct, patrons might return
I have been reading about the new code of conduct for riding on MARTA (“MARTA’s drive will urge users: ‘Ride with Respect’,” Metro, Sept. 3). All I can say is, it’s about time, and I hope it works.
The last time I rode MARTA was on the way home from a Braves game in 1995. I swore I would never ride it again. There were two large thugs who were drunk and shouting the worst obscenities that I’d ever heard across the train car. Women and young children were being forced to listen to that. I am not a prude, but I must say that this was intolerable. There was no security present, and no one to complain to at the station. My decision was to never ride again, and I presume that most families on the train felt the same way I did.
Once the new rules are put in place and there is absolute evidence that this mess is cleaned up, I may consider riding again.
KEN RUMSEY, WOODSTOCK
MARTA should also clean up its stations
I think it’s just swell that MARTA has come up with a “code of conduct” for its customers. I think it would also be just swell if they would come up with a “code of cleanliness” for its stations.
MIKE CANFIELD, ATLANTA
TERROR THREAT
We need to do more to maintain vigilance
Some regional newspapers are pointing out that people born after 9/11 are unaware of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. We need to be informed and reminded both of what that day means for the present and future of our nation, and of the mindset that set it all in motion.
One approach would be to designate September as Freedom Month, and have public, college and university libraries present at that time every year special displays and programs; have public school libraries do the same; have essay assignments and contests; have radio stations offer appropriate programs, and, on Sept. 11, hold public prayer vigils.
Little or nothing, to my knowledge, is being done at the grassroots level to keep the general populace alert to the current and increasing threat to American democracy and freedom. A local organization might be formed to foster some such project. A great deal could be done with a little imagination and effort.
ROB R. MCGREGOR, ANDERSON, S.C.
