Readers Write

CAPITAL PUNISHMENT

Davis' guilt is doubtful

U.S. Rep. John Lewis's column on Troy Anthony Davis struck home ("Give Troy Anthony Davis a new trial," Opinion, June 26). The state of Georgia intends to execute Davis for allegedly killing officer Mark McPhail. No matter that there is no physical evidence linking Davis to the killing. No matter that several witnesses have changed or contradicted their testimony — some claiming their original testimony was coerced. No matter that several of these witnesses point to one of the two non-recanting witnesses as the real murderer. No matter that there is an overwhelming element of doubt in this case. The main thing is that our state intends to punish someone for this tragic killing. Is this the message we in Georgia want to send to the world?

Harry Findley, Atlanta

HEALTH

Officials see the problem

"Georgians tip the scale" (Metro, July 2) states that Georgia has the third-highest rate of overweight youth, ages 10-17, at 37.3 percent. The recent passage of House Bill 229, also known as the SHAPE (Student Health and Physical Education) Act is addressing this problem by requiring all state schools to adopt an assessment, that will probably include weight or body mass index screening. The Department of Education is also moving to address obesity concerns. New physical education standards based on national ones have been adopted, and new health education and nutrition standards are being written. Georgia's elected officials have taken positive steps. We will undoubtedly see results very soon.

Bill Burns, American Heart Association

One condition is crucial

I've always believed that "universal health care" was not a viable option, but I'm finally coming around to accepting that perhaps it would be best — but under one strict condition. The final paragraph of the law must read, "The president of the United States, political appointees of the president, the Congress of the United States, and all federal employees, including all dependents residing in the households for those four groups must accept the coverage and benefits under the public financed option." The elite wish for the peasants to be mired in their bureaucracy and mediocrity. Perhaps they, too, should be participants in their creation.

Thomas Nault, Powder Springs

ENVIRONMENT

Two ways to save energy

Two areas where energy could be conserved are air conditioning in businesses, and idling cars at traffic lights. I carry a long-sleeved shirt to wear in restaurants, because the air conditioning is so cold. We are told to keep our home air conditioners at 80 degrees — why not encourage businesses to do the same? Traffic lights here hold many cars, idling. If local municipalities would re-time traffic lights, less gas would be burned; air would improve, and some drivers would be a little less dangerous.

Betsy Shackelford, Decatur