Pitts helps us to see things from both sides
The author of the letter “Pitts’ arguments have become trite” (Readers write, Opinion, July 10) wrote that columnist Leonard Pitts’ “arguments ... are out of place in a society that seeks to move on to better discourse.” If only our society were indeed so advanced. I’ve never experienced job discrimination or hatred because of my skin color (though I believe such still exist, smoldering beneath the surface, for those of differing ethnicity). Prejudice is simply an inherent frailty we all must constantly endeavor to quell.
The author implores Pitts to use his skills to improve problems, not create more. My take on Pitts is that he has a rare gift for enabling his readers to see and appreciate both sides of today’s events ( such as the tragic death of Trayvon Martin) — thereby helping us all to “just get along.”
BIRNEY A. MONTCALM, WINSTON
Tobacco ban is about power, not our health
Regarding “City tries smoking ban” (Metro, July 7), Atlanta officials propose a ban on even carrying tobacco in many public places. Who’s endangered by the mere presence of unlit tobacco? No one. This isn’t about health. This is about bureaucrats expanding control over the rest of us.
ADRIAN FILLION, ATLANTA
Georgians risk getting short end of the stick
As I understand the situation, Americans will get Obamacare, whereas Georgians may end up with “Dealdon’tcare.”
Under the circumstances, I would much prefer to be considered an American.
STEVE WILKERSON, LILBURN
History of deception could be repeated
Years ago, we cheerfully celebrated the opening of Ga. 400 and were promised a toll that would eventually lapse. Little did we realize: Politicians lie! Once again, they have crept back to the well and promised anew a bond that would be eventually be “paid in full.” Daily we hear Atlanta traffic will come to a halt if we do not vote for the proposed T-SPLOST bond.
Once deceived, how can we trust that history will not repeat itself?
JIM KNOCKE, DUNWOODY
It’s time to let the Bush cuts expire
I agree with the premise that every family has a moral obligation to give large sums to help our veterans, and the more you make, the more you should give. It’s called taxes. As a nation, we don’t give enough to help others who need the help.
The George Bush tax cuts should be allowed to expire — and hopefully, that will be enough to dig this great country out of the pit it has dug for itself. If not, then taxes should be raised.
Allowing the tax cuts to expire is not raising taxes, but allowing the taxes to go back to the level where they should be.
PAUL M. MARION, HINESVILLE
