11/23: Upset with content of programming on cable TV

To the editor:

I am greatly alarmed by the programming on some of the so-called basic cable networks.

A new Special Report by the Parents Television Council shows just how licentious and depraved some of the programming on basic cable is. I urge you to read the report, which can be found at www.ParentsTV.org.

The PTC's report shows that basic cable is rife with some of the most obscene themes and content imaginable, including pornography, masturbation, oral sex, anal sex, threesomes, statutory rape, incest, and bestiality. Why should I be forced to bring this sewage into my home in order to watch the Food Network, or the Disney channel? Why should parents have to subsidize channels that undermine their core values and beliefs?

I ask you to consider families like mine when you decide on cable choice. By offering me the ability to choose the channels I want, and to pay only for those channels, you put power back in the hands of the consumer and force the producers of indecent or violent programming to fund their own "raunch." These raunchy cable networks have been carried on the backs of American consumers long enough. It is time for this extortion to end, and you have the power to stop it.

-- Roy F McCreary, Dacula

Dear Roy: Remember, cable television is a licensed franchise of local government. By contacting your local government which franchises your cable, you can hope to influence how you may pay and what will be on your cable service. --eeb

11/23: Volunteer to make a difference in the lives of children

Editor, the Forum:

The Gwinnett Neighborhood Leadership Institute (GNLI), www.gnli.org, which trains and empowers local citizens and community leaders to promote positive changes in their neighborhoods and communities, invites you to give your time and talent to meet the needs of foster children, the most invisible citizens of Gwinnett County. One of the greatest ways to give is volunteering. Please join GNLI's Class of 2005 in its partnership with Foster Children's Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, located in Duluth.

Volunteers are needed to:

• Collect donated items
  
• Sort donated items
  
• Staff the distribution center during the monthly open house
  
• Staff special events
  
• Provide specialized or professional services
  
• Recruit other volunteers

How to volunteer:

1) An upcoming event where you can sign up is December 17, at "Coats for Kids", a partnership between the Gwinnett Gladiators and The Foster Children's Foundation Inc (FCF). This will be at the Gwinnett Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth. Bring a coat to donate.

2) Or contact the founder and director, Suzanne Geske, at info@fosterchildrensfoundation.org or phone (770) 623-6135.

Experience the joy that comes only from giving. Please volunteer with the Foster Children's Foundation and make a difference in the lives of these children right here in your own backyard.

-- Josef K. Fain, Bethlelem, Ga.

11/16: Not surprised because of Shrenko's modus operandi

Editor, the Forum:

After benefiting from being in the right place at the right time, Linda Schrenko quickly alienated herself from those who put her in office.

She repeatedly dissed the parents, teachers, administration, and ultimately the children of Georgia's largest school system (Gwinnett) with the arrogance of a Hollywood diva. Broken promises, missed appointments, and a total lack of accountability were her modus operandi.

The accounts of her alleged theft of funds from those very same constituents just reinforce her pompous behavior. The "little people" who carried out the tasks of misappropriating the taxpayer's dollars on her behalf are the same ones who will ultimately lead to her demise.

Do unto others...

-- Brian Luders, Duluth

11/16: With right direction, Democrats could win back this voter

Editor, the Forum:

In regard your recent columnm, "Democrats only need to follow previous Republican action": The Dems could even get me back with a little effort put forth.

-- Roy McCreary, Dacula

11/16: Feels time for Democrats to call for moderate changes

Editor, the Forum:

I find it amazing that so many folks - especially Georgians - have grown to actually HATE Zell Miller because he found the courage to tell the truth (as proven by the election) about his beloved Democratic Party. Maybe with help and guidance, instead of stubborn resistance, the former Democratic party - the party of the common people - can return to its roots.

The far left liberals who have taken leadership of the national party have gotten so involved in their left wing agendas that they have lost the followers who put them where they are today. Now would be a great time for ALL Democrats to call out for a more moderate change and get back to the founding basic's of the party.

Our country needs a strong two party system to continue to grow and prosper - and the leaders of the Democratic Party have stolen this from us this year. Instead of whining about how the other party stole the elections, they should be evaluating how they need to change to meet the needs of their folks and return this country to a more balanced system.

-- Steve Rausch, Norcross

(Editor's Note: Your letter tends to give me pause, Steve, since (note today's column), we tend to agree on your premise that we need two good, strong parties in Georgia. -eeb.)

11/9: Email message after election from President Bush

(Editor's Note: another reader sent this e-mail message from President George W. Bush after the election. -eeb.)

We had a long night -- and we had a great night. The voters turned out in record numbers and delivered an historic victory.

I want to thank our supporters across this country. At every stop I asked you to make the calls, put up the signs, talk to your neighbors, and get out the vote. And because you did your part, we are celebrating today. Thanks to you, we received more votes than any presidential ticket in history.

America has spoken. And I am humbled by the trust and confidence of my fellow citizens. With that trust comes a duty: I will serve all Americans, so help me God. I am proud to lead such an amazing country -- and I am proud to lead it forward.

Reaching our goals will require the broad support of Americans. A new term is a new opportunity to reach out to the whole nation. We have one country, one Constitution, and one future that binds us all. And when we come together and work together, there is no limit to the greatness of America.

A campaign has ended, and our cause is renewed. The United States of America goes forward with confidence and faith. I can see a new day coming, and I am eager for the work ahead. God bless you all, and God bless America.

-- George W. Bush, Washington

11/9: Kerry campaign gives citizens spirit of patriotism

Editor, the Forum:

I am a proud Kerry supporter and now that the election is over I am also a proud American! There was so much hate and fear throughout this election, too many people voted for John Kerry because they hated George Bush, too many people voted for George Bush because they feared change and way too many people just plain hated both candidates and voted for Ralph Nader. So much hate and division!

Through all the negative attacks what I am left with now is how John Kerry fought back against all that hate with compassion and hope!

Volunteering for John Kerry's campaign was a true blessing! I not only got to learn the true meaning of patriotism, I got to live it! Until now, being patriotic and supporting the government was something I only ever read about in books and John Kerry brought it to life for me and the millions of others that worked with me!

There are some things we never understand and some pain that never goes away but I can tell you that I now support President Bush because that's the spirit of patriotism that John Kerry gave me. We must unite behind President Bush and the Republicans in Congress because there is a challenge ahead of us like none we have ever faced and as loyal Americans we must support the mission of our leaders until it goes against the foundations that this country was built on.

There were no losers in this election and we did reject the negative politics of fear and hate just as President Bush said we would. The final speeches of President Bush and Senator Kerry reminds me of this: Two great enemies met on the field of honor. One was defeated but never beaten and the victor cheered and saluted their opponent as they left the field of battle. Today we are all proud Americans.

-- Brian Stettler, Tampa

11/9: Feels voters had the last word on marriage question

Editor, the Forum:

What do Americans think of marriage? The answer was pretty clear November 2, with voters in several states, deciding by huge margins to preserve in their state constitutions the age-old definition of marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

Eleven states in all had marriage-protection amendments on their ballots -- and the measures passed in all of them. More than that, they were approved in most cases by supermajorities ˜ as they were in a handful of other states in recent years. This now makes 17 states since 2000 that have rejected the attempts of gay activists to alter one of the most important, enduring institutions of civilization.

Whether any of these amendments will really protect marriage, of course, is anybody's guess. That's because activist judges will now have a crack at them -- and as Louisiana found out after passing a similar amendment earlier this fall, there are no limits to some courts' ability to overreach when looking to foist a politically correct agenda on the rest of us.

The only weapon to effectively battle such tyranny is another amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

-- Robert Singleton, Alpharetta

(Editor's note: Mr. Singleton: while people speak in elections, laws of this country must get past another test, that of the constitutionality to which you speak, and that comes from rulings by judges. In other words, don't think that the vote was the last word on this and similar measures passed, sometimes, hastily, by voters. -eeb.)

11/2: Provides own "objective" response to previous column

Editor, the Forum:

Although the title of a column (10/29 issue) by Elliott Brack in the previous Gwinnett Forum suggested that objectivity was going to be used to predict the election, I found none and instead found standard Bush bashing offal. Perhaps I can bring some objectivity to this discussion.

The war. From the very beginning the President stated that this war was going to take us a long time and wouldn't be fought in only one place. This isn't a conventional war and won't be fought or finished in a conventional way. I for one am happy the front is in Iraq rather than at Peachtree and Piedmont.

The economy. The characterization of the economy in the column was… well… how can I put this eloquently?… (bleep!--eeb) Unemployment is at 5.4 percent (under Clinton in 1996 it was 5.2). The 5.4 is lower than the average unemployment of the 80s and 90s. Additionally, in 2000 (under Clinton), the NASDAQ was down 40 percent and the Dow about 10 percent from 1999 without 9/11! Since mid 2002, the Gross Domestic Product has grown at an average rate of 4.015 percent with inflation on GDP at 1.8625 percent. That is a booming economy! "Economic uncertainty" is a Kerry lie and the Democrats figure that if it is said often enough a la the old Soviet newspaper, Pravda, others will regurgitate it as fact.

The government. The reason that President Bush hasn't "had a clear path for anything he wanted" is because of the obfuscating, dishonest blockading of EVERYTHING by the Democrats in United States Senate. This is self-evident Democratic Party partisanship and requires no more said about it.

Healthcare. The fact is, rising healthcare costs were not caused by this President. Trial attorneys like John Edwards have caused rising health care costs. Period.

The bottom line, is that the column was in no way an objective look at the upcoming election.

Observe the supporters of Kerry --- dirty, multi-pierced, naked, rude protesters that attack police officers in New York, letter writers that have nothing but ad hominem rhetoric, editorial writers that get the facts wrong and, the terrorists themselves. They aren't supporting Kerry --- they just hate Bush. And, as liberals themselves state on bumper stickers: "Hate is not a family value."

Vote for Bush. Don't put this country in the hands of a soldier bashing gold-digger and a "sue 'em and damn the consequences" Breck-girl trial attorney. Sorry about this little bit of ad hominem attacking. I never said that name calling wasn't fun.

-- BJ VanGundy, Norcross

10/29: Points out savings through use of dietary supplements

Editor, the Forum:

As one of the many Americans who uses dietary supplements to benefit my health, I am dismayed when I see good news about these products minimized or ignored in the news media. That's why I'm calling your attention to a new study that links dietary supplements to improved health and health care savings.

The study, which was conducted by the Lewin Group, shows that daily use of calcium would prevent 734,000 hip fractures and save $13.9 billion in health care costs over the next five years. Daily use of folic acid by women would prevent 600 cases of neural tube birth defects yearly, saving $1.3 billion in lifetime medical costs over five years. That's a total savings of over $15 billion if these simple healthy tips can be implemented. You can read more about these supplements, and the other three that were studied -- omega-3 fatty acids, Glucosamine and saw palmetto -- at www.supplementinfo.org.

For a number of reasons, there's a health care crisis in this country today that needs a solution. I urge you not to ignore information like this study that clearly shows how dietary supplements can play a big role in solving that crisis.

-- Jack Wolfe, Duluth

10/29: Remembers anouther country that had patriotic leader

Editor, the Forum:

Thank you for your piece on patriotism, for pointing out that patriotism does not belong to one political party or point of view. Well-informed, involved, conscientious and dedicated individuals may see the same situation, know the same facts, and still come to different conclusions on the "proper" course of action. This is true patriotism: conscientiously acting upon your deeply held beliefs for the betterment of your country and fellow countrymen (and -women).

I know of a country who once had an extremely patriotic leader. He was a very moral leader. He was not a womanizer, and he never touched a drop of alcohol. He helped his country out of a severe economic depression and gave rousing speeches, bringing crowds to their feet. They, too, chanted slogans about how great things would be with him as their leader. Who in their right mind wouldn't follow such a man? A lot of people did follow him -- and the world paid a terrible price -- for Adolf Hitler.

Following is easy. Blindly following is even easier. Thinking and forming your own opinion is much harder.

So, whoever your conscience tells you to choose during this important presidential election, do it with knowledge and careful consideration.

And, please keep this quote in mind as you listen to those around you: "Education is the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper." -- Robert Frost

Thank you so much for your publication/forum.

-- Annette Gelbrich, Norcross

PS: My favorite poem, "The Road Not Taken," by Robert Frost offers some of the best advice I've ever heard: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I -- I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.--AG

10/29: Not one single doubt about what this letter writer believes

Editor, the Forum:

President Bush now says he bombed Iraq and toppled Saddam to "establish a democracy in the Middle East." (Read: He wants that to be his legacy.)

He didn't need Iraq. His legacy will be secured as the only person to occupy the Oval Office whose golf score and I.Q. were both in the high 90's. Historians will sum up this presidency as the voters are beginning to a colossal waste of lives, money, and domestic opportunities.

If you care anything at all about this incredible country of ours, vote him out on November 2.

-- M. Buckman, Lilburn

10/26: Feels like being misled, and in addition, unsafe in America

Editor, the Forum:

Vice President Cheney has once again misled the American Public. The fact that the Vice President can manipulate with something that was an outright lie from the beginning is terrifying. As an American citizen, for the first time in 54 years, I am afraid of my own government leadership.

The Washington Post shows that Vice President Cheney has, on numerous occasions made statements to link Saddam Hussein to September 11 and those statements have been proven false by many sources.

To lie and mislead about something so important that lead us to war is almost too much for the mind to comprehend. Then to say that he had not met John Edwards before the debate demonstrates that this administration cannot and will not tell the truth. We cannot trust this administration. I am afraid that they will continue on the same path of "strike first" if they are re-elected and choose Iran as their next target.

I do not feel safer today with the current administration.

How can I feel safe with someone who would look me in the eye and lie to gain their own ends? It leaves me to face mounting hostility in the world, the loss of my ability to work and feed and cloth myself, the lack of health care, and the loss of a secure retirement, and all done within four years. That's why we don't need four more years of these lying leaders.

-- Pat Greene, Snellville

10/26: Hit the mark with comments about patriotism

Editor, the Forum:

You hit the mark with your remarks about patriotism. I still read you, and appreciate the Forum. Things are a bit quieter in Tarpon Springs now, apparently hurricane season has passed. And I certainly miss all my contacts and men and women of Snellville Police Department.

-- Jimmy Davis, Tarpon Springs, Fla.

(Editor's Note: Mr. Davis is the retired chief of the Snellville police.-eeb)

10/22: Feels action against earlier attack might have helped USA

Editor, the Forum:

In reference to wars: does anyone believe that war is positive? It was a necessity of preserving ours and other's freedoms; if you will remember, 9-11-2001 changed that. What did you feel like that morning and the days following the attack on America? No president has ever taken this job lightly. We had been attacked on New York City soil before but nothing came of it. Maybe if something had been done then, we would not have a 9-11 to remember forever.

Everyone wants to place blame. We can all claim blame to how others perceive our country due to tremendous bickering and disrespect shown daily by the media for the people we should be showing respect. Ahh, but freedom of speech allows that? What has happened to what our parents taught us about respect, honor, dignity, morality and serving others? I believe that the president is protecting our nation and our rights through the men and women in the armed forces. I also very much respect that the majority honor and respect the Commander In Chief of our country.

I thank God for a president that thanks and prays to God openly. Our country was founded by men that believed the same. There is more at stake than war; I disagree with Mr. Kerry's stand on abortion, marriage and basically find him untrustworthy.

I do care about this country, my children and their future and for that reason I will vote for George Bush on November 2. And yes, eeb, others will draw different conclusions from me. That is their choice and yes, that is what makes America great.

-- Ossie Randall, Suwanee

10/22: Enjoys thoughts from Yvonne concerning election

Editor, the Forum:

Hooray Yvonne (FORUM, October 19) ! It sounds like Yvonne was born very bright ! It's a shame that all voters are not. Oh well, I guess what some of our citizens lack in intelligence, they make up for in other ways. That's another thing that makes our country great.

-- Roy McCreary. Dacula

10/22: Claims that real flip-flopper is President Bush

Editor, the Forum:

He refuses to admit mistakes, says he‚and will do the exact same thing! He claimed Iraq had WMD's and a link with Al Qaeda and ominously warned of "mushroom clouds." Now he says he bombed Iraq to "establish a democracy in the Middle East." That's a flip-flop!

He opposed the 9/11 Commission, then grudgingly accepted it. Flip-flop! He refused to testify under oath or allow any note taking of his answers -- then insisted Cheney hold his hand. And he claims Kerry's not credible?! Now that's hubris!

In March 1993, the WTC was bombed the first time. Clinton didn't blame his predecessor, gone from office only two months. After eight months in office, "W" blamed Clinton for 9/11. Listen closely. He's still doing it. From Iraq to the economy, he blames (or labels) someone else. "Bad intelligence." "Flip-flop." "Liberal." Oh, yeah. America needs four more years of that!

Bush must learn---as voters have---that being self-righteous isn't the same as being righteous. No better time than November 2 for him to finally "get it."

-- M. Buckman, Lilburn

10/19: With students like these, Gwinnett's future is bright

Editor, the Forum:

Having a vested interest in the HOPE Scholarship and the cost of college tuition, recent actions by Governor Perdue and the Board of Regents have had my undivided attention.

I traveled to Georgia Tech for a firsthand version of the proceedings as the Board of Regents deliberated an unprecedented mid-year tuition increase for Georgia's college students.

Perhaps the most enlightening observation was the presentation by the two youngest people at the meeting. Amy Phuong and Adam Sparks, Student Government Presidents at Georgia Tech and UGA respectively, confirming why Georgia must remain committed to our investment in education.

Having recently spearheaded a campaign to petition the Governor and BOR to prevent a mid-year tuition increase, including a march on the Capitol, there was every reason for an adversarial relationship between the parties involved. I was proud of Ms. Phuong and Mr. Sparks when they addressed the Board in a spirit of cooperation, with effectiveness, efficiency, and most of all respect.

With young people like these destined for the leadership of Georgia, our future is bright!

-- Brian Luders, Duluth

10/19: Concludes that it's best not to have Bush for four years

Editor, the Forum:

President Bush now says he bombed Iraq and toppled Saddam to "establish a democracy in the Middle East." (Read: He wants that to be his legacy.)

He didn't need Iraq. His legacy will be secured as the only person to occupy the Oval Office whose golf score and I.Q. were both in the high 90's. Historians will sum up this presidency as the voters are beginning to ˆ a colossal waste of lives, money, and domestic opportunities.

If you care anything at all about this incredible country of ours, vote him out on November 2.

-- M. Buckman, Lilburn

10/19: Draws conclusion that it's best for four more Bush years

Dear Gwinnett Forum:

There is much talk during this election campaign concerning the female vote and the difference it can make. As a woman, wife, and/or mother, there are several things to ask yourself before you cast your vote on Nov. 2.

Do you believe in the sanctity of the union between a woman and a man and do you believe that union should be protected? If the answer is yes, a vote for John Kerry contradicts your beliefs.

Are you pro-life or pro-choice? Most importantly, do you believe partial birth abortions should be legalized? John Kerry voted against the ban on partial birth
abortions. A vote for him is a vote to legalize this form of life-taking.

I believe that George Bush has proven he has the leadership abilities our country needs to stay on the right track and most importantly to fight terrorism, the most important issue we face today. I believe he deserves four more years. A vote for John Kerry will, I'm afraid put us on the wrong track. I believe our vote can make a difference. Go to the polls on November 2nd and make your vote count.

-- Yvonne Harrell, Milledgeville

Dear Yvonne: Others will draw different conclusions from your facts. That's what makes our country great. --eeb

10/19: Cites reasons, raises quandry about Snellville liquor vote

Editor, the Forum:

Liquor by the drink in Snellville will:

• Let citizens enjoy an occasional mixed drink (5,000 plus per week.)
  
• Provide new revenue, mostly to be spent in controlling the liquor by the drink ordinance.
  
• Increase accidents and deaths on Snellville's streets.
  
• Increase alcoholics in Snellville.
  
• Bring prostitution to Snellville.
  
• Deny young persons between 18-21 their full citizen rights as earned in war by the grandparents, parents and peers.

As a World War II draftee combat veteran, discharged before his 21st birth, I have strong convictions that it is wrong to pass any law or ordinance which denies those between 18 and 21 the same rights as those 21 and over is wrong. I am not an advocate for liquor by the drink for the 18 year old. To me, it is another reason not to pass the ordinance. I have several grandchildren in the 18-21 age group and would hate to see liquor by the drink available to them. But if it is to be available to those over 21, they should not be excluded.

-- Bob Allen, Snellville

10/15: Correction

An incorrect Web address of the American Cancer Society was included in Phylecia Wilson's letter (Feedback, 10/12) in the last issue. To see the latest ACS CAN site, go to www.acscan.org, and click down to the portion which reads "America's Next Smokesperson.

10/15: Popular vote would give majority to 11 biggest states

Editor, the Forum:

You make a good point with your column regarding the candidates ignoring the "safe" states. The second part of your column, on the Electoral College, brings to mind a related thought:

If the voters want to see states ignored in the elections, just do away with the Electoral College and go to a popular vote. Under that system, the 11 largest states could elect the president and impose their will on the other 39.

Voters in the less populous states would never see or hear from the candidates, while the folks in the big states would be promised the moon.

People need to admit that our founding fathers knew what they were doing (on this and many other issues) and stop trying to change things.

-- Myles Godfrey, Winder

(Editor's note: Nicely said, Myles. And a major point to those of us who relish seeing national candidates pay some attention to all the states. While Georgia would be among the 11 largest states, such a move wouldn't be right for the nation. -eeb)

10/15: Easily recalls several mistakes of Bush Administration

Editor, the Forum:

During the second presidential debate, Bush was asked if he could recall three mistakes he had made, and after stammering and waffling, he muttered that perhaps some appointments were mistakes.

Perhaps this will jog his memory: Telling the nation Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction and posed a "grave and gathering" threat to our security, despite reports from weapons inspectors Kay and Blix, and from the CIA, confirmed by the Duelfer report issued last week that there were no WMDs in Iraq, and that Saddam posed little danger to the U.S.; and including discredited information concerning Nigerian Yellow Cake in his 2003 State of the Union Address; and prancing around in a flight suit aboard the carrier, announcing that "major combat operations in Iraq have ended" -- after which over 900 of our finest have given their lives.

Also, ignoring the dire condition of the nation's employment, he stated, "outsourcing is just a new way of doing international trade." He made a big deal out of his "No Child Left Behind" Act but failed to provide necessary funding. And despite funds approved by Congress, he sent our troops to Iraq without adequate body armor or armor for their vehicles. And so on . . .

If I can think of these mistakes and many more, why can Bush not remember
them?

-- Charles Prendergast, Los Angeles, Calif.

10/12: Congress scores another victory for Big Tobacco

Editor, the Forum:

Big Tobacco won again on Wednesday when Congress chose to disregard almost 14,000 faxes/emails and more than 6,000 phone calls by cancer advocates and turned down the FDA bill to control tobacco products..

This was a historic opportunity for our nation's health, but Congress ignored these messages from voters because they feel more accountable to Big Tobacco!

The issue is dead for 2004, but the fight continues. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is working to get 10,000 signatures on a petition that will be presented to Congress asking them to pass FDA authority over tobacco

We need your help. Now more than ever it is important for you to join the ACS CAN to make sure that Congress can't ignore our voices anymore.

Please make your $5 donation to ACS CAN so you can help ask the candidates what they will do to win the war on cancer. We must hold them accountable. Go to ican@acscan.org and join the war on cancer. Then add the email address to your address book so you can get mailings to keep you informed.

-- Phylecia Wilson, Snellville

10/12: Devastation in Haiti creates unusual need

Editor, the Forum:

I've just visited Haiti - devastated by Hurricane Jeanne. In the northwest city of Gonaïves, so many people have lost everything. The need is so great, I felt compelled to write and ask for your help. So far, the death toll exceeds 1,600 - and more than 1,000 remain missing.

Water sources are contaminated and pose an immediate health risk to hundreds of thousands of people. More than 130,000 people are in desperate need of food, shelter and medical attention.

A minimum three-month supply of food, clean water and basic survival items for the people of Gonaïves will cost roughly $3.6 million. U.S., European and Canadian governments have helped us meet much of that target, but we still need your help.

CARE must raise an additional $1 million to help the Haitian people, and I'm asking for your support.

Despite their own loss and trauma, CARE's staff in Haiti is already on the front lines. Your generous donation will help them reach more than 100,000 people in the next few months.

Please make your donation today, and forward this message to as many people as possible. Lives depend on it.

On behalf of the people we serve, thank you!

-- Peter Bell, Atlanta

(Editor's Note: Mr. Bell is president of CARE, inc., which is based in Atlanta.)

10/8: Imperfect ballot still a nonviolent alternative to war

Editor, the Forum:

With the election nearing, we hear much talk about war, democracy and freedom. As we seek ways to prevent war and model democracy, we must look to voting. Many of us are so accustomed to elections that we have forgotten that the ballot---imperfect as it may be---is a nonviolent alternative to war.

Free and fair elections are a key part of rebuilding nations after war, and a prerequisite for avoiding it. Voting is about the rule of law instead of the rule of force. It ensures the ability of citizens to hold its elected leaders accountable.

Voting is so powerful that people around the world and in the United States have risked, and sometimes lost, their lives to do it. We cannot take this form of nonviolent change for granted. We need to get to the polls on November 2 and encourage our friends and neighbors to do so as well.

-- Micah D. McConochie, Dunwoody

10/8: Challenges previous positions on smoking ban and quagmire

Editor, the Forum:

You earlier wrote: “If every single person living in Gwinnett cities was for smoking, that would only be 20 per cent of the county population. We suspect Gwinnett city residents are much like the rest of the country, where 75 per cent of the people don't smoke. People across the country, and even whole nations like Ireland, understand the dangers of smoking, and don't associate governmental interference with it, unless they are mainly bar patrons or owners. ­eeb.”

The issue however is in your still-flawed reasoning. You assume that every non-smoker agrees with the ordinance and your viewpoint. That's a fallacy. I'm a non-smoker and I disagree with the smoking ban. I don't smoke but I appreciate that smokers have rights too, as do business owners, though they may be a minority voice.

Remember your spiel about the minority having rights? (Response to Rikki Lewis - 3/5/04 ‘Thank you for your thoughts. You ask if I agree. I would say not so fast on that 50 per cent "rule" you quote. After all, minorities have rights, too. Compromise is like buying something valuable at the lowest bid. You might get a serviceable unit, but not have all the bells and whistles you want on it. And many would tell you that ‘this is the American way, too.’ ”

I guess that noble thought is purged from yours, and most other liberals, minds, when its to their benefit. We had a successful compromise with non-smoking sections and common courtesy.

Also, Scott Tuggle's letter was a bit of a sham. After going through a decent beginning and offering a non-partisan site to check facts, he then cheapened his argument by spouting more liberal party line drivel: "against the guidelines of the U.S. Constitution, after misleading the Congress." Both of these are FALSE.

Also his opinion that Bush's actions are impeachable, is also false. I'm only surprised he used "quagmire" once.

-- Tony Rivera, Suwanee

10/1: Wants people to check facts, not leat haranguers dictate

Editor, the Forum:

After reading Roy McCreary's statement (Sept. 28 edition) about President Bush being the ONE candidate that is concerned about the security of our nation, it got me thinking.

Are we really a nation of people that lets guys like Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Neil Boortz tell us what to think? I think what Mr. McCreary and other like-thinking citizens need to do is take a little time and actually investigate what the talk show hosts are telling them.

One way is to utilize the NON-PARTISAN web site, FactCheck.org. Or, just ask yourself, should we trust our security with the President that promised to get Osama bin Laden "dead or alive", but instead invaded (against the guidelines of the U.S. Constitution, after misleading the Congress - which, in my opinion, was an impeachable offense) Iraq? Or, should we entrust the president with the security of the nation when he didn't mention bin Laden (without question one of the most dangerous enemies of the United States) during his acceptance speech at the RNC?

Is the real enemy Bush is seeking to destroy Osama bin Laden or John Kerry? Saying Kerry is not at all concerned about the security of our nation is obviously an out and out falsehood, but one that is continually implied by many conservative talk show hosts, and unfortunately, one that is accepted as fact by millions of Americans.

It is clear that Bush has gotten us into a real quagmire in Iraq - under false pretenses - costing over a 1,000 American lives, while Osama bin Laden remains alive and well and drug lords rule in Afghanistan, and he is the one we should trust? Not in my mind, not based on the FACTS.

-- Scott Tuggle, Lawrenceville

10/1: Liberals remember where they come from; conservatives?

(Editor's Note: A GwinnettForum reader sent this to us for re-publishing, saying it is that good. It was first printed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution letters section on August 14, 2004. The reader adds: "….and this guy is from conservative Cobb County."-eeb)

Editor, the Forum:

It's time to inject a dose of reality and history into the liberal vs. conservative discussion.

The fact is, most Americans, except for recent immigrants, are only a couple of generations removed from the farm. Most of us today enjoy a better quality of life as a result of programs and policies initiated by liberals and Democrats, including the New Deal, the Great Society, universal public education, fair labor practices, Medicare, Medicaid, the trade union movement, and on and on.

Thanks to these liberal policies and programs, our parents and grandparents were able to pull their families into the middle class. Liberals remember where they came from and how they got here, while conservatives delude themselves that they made it entirely on their own.

-- John Thomson, Marietta.

10/1: Questions that vast majority of people are against smoking

Editor, the Forum:

It would seem to me that your assumption that the vast majority of Gwinnett citizens wanted a smoking ban is far off base. If only four of the fifteen Gwinnett cities have enacted a smoking ban, perhaps that's because those city commissioners respect individual freedoms and the rights of business owners.

The Gwinnett County smoking ban was not "passed," it was ramrodded down the
county's throat by the personal agendas of some of the commissioners, to a situation that didn't need governmental interference. Perhaps that contributed to the mighty Wayne Hill's recent defeat.

-- Tony Rivera, Suwanee

Dear Tony: If every single person living in Gwinnett cities was for smoking, that would only be 20 per cent of the county population. We suspect Gwinnett city residents are much like the rest of the country, where 75 per cent of the people don't smoke. People across the country, and even whole nations like Ireland, understand the dangers of smoking, and don't associate governmental interference with it, unless they are mainly bar patrons or owners. --eeb

9/14: Missed book recommendations in last issue

Editor, the Forum:

I noticed that the section on "Book Recommendation" was not part of last Friday's Gwinnett Forum articles. I really enjoy learning about other people perspectives on the books they have read. Will this section be back next week?
Teresa Lynn, Duluth

Dear Teresa: We hope so. We've asked several people to send us their choices, but actually ran out of material. If readers want this as part of the line-up, they must respond to our requests. We hope they do; we enjoy it, too. Even tell us what you have read lately….and we hope others do, too! -eeb

9/14: American in Germany seeks help for GIs, children from war

(Editor's Note: this letter comes through a friend of ours in Germany, and may interest GwinenttForum readers. -eeb)

Editor, the Forum

I am a proud spouse of an American soldier who is deployed down range, and live in Schweinfurt, Germany. If someone would have told me a year ago that I would spend my days and nights gathering donations for wounded soldiers and Iraqi children, I would have shook my head. After all I just graduated from a well known Fashion Institute as summa cum laude and I was a personal shopper at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Diego, Calif..

As son as we arrived in Germany, my husband received orders for Iraq. I was ready to move on in my career and I had a couple of promising opportunities. Then my phone rang in early April. My husband asked me to check on a soldier in Landstuhl, Germany, who had been hit badly....it didn't look good.

My life changed that day. Trying to deal with all the eyes of dozens of wounded soldiers....I realized that I could not leave this anymore. Could not leave….what? Well, I did not know yet at that time.

Long story short.....I started an Organization called FAITH (Friends Aid Injured Troops Hospitalized.) Standing in the community every week, asking people to donate clothing items, toiletries and snacks to the wounded, which I have been taking to the wards ever since. I also work as a volunteer on the ward now, I sit with the soldiers, I laugh and cry with them and I give them a few minutes of hope. I have brought Billy Blanks to the ward, I chased after Miss Teen USA for Autographs for the men, and I ran after Mugsy for hoops.....I have collected over $16,000 worth of items and I bring pastries every week to the troops.

Six months into this, sending and giving donations at four different hospitals....I added on a new task, which I call: Teddies for Toddlers. With all the negativity in prison abuses, I had to make a difference, to prove that we care about the people. We need to nourish them, educate them and show them love. Well, Teddy Bears are a great tool to show love. I use my networking and marketing skills in "begging" for these projects. There are millions of children. I have about 1,600 bears so far....a long way to go...but I know that this will find more support some where. It's hard to put this all in words.

I hope I gave you a good look at my work. Unfortunately an article in Stars and Stripes was printed on a holiday...not too many people had a chance to see it...since everyone was off from work, but my FAITH is big. Thank you.

-- Sandra Hummel (shoppingsandra@yahoo.com)
Operation in FAITH, Attn. Sandra Hummel, CMR 464 Box 2417, APO AE 09226

9/3: Finds Atlanta History Center to be marvelous facility

Editor, the Forum:

The day I read your article about Atlanta cultural sights, I had an appointment that very afternoon with Michael Rose, the director of the Kenan Research Center there, to have him look at some items that were recently found in my parent's attic that I thought would have pertinence to Atlanta's history,

To my shame, until that day, this Atlanta native of 55 had never been to the Center. I was absolutely astounded....what a marvelous facility! I knew exactly where it was and have passed it many times but never knew what was really in those woods!

I ended up spending almost two hours there with Michael as he went through all the items. (That's another story: my grandmother had a speech/elocution, dance and expression school in West End from 1911 until 1938 and taught some of Atlanta's "finest" as she was wont to say. I had so much stuff that I just couldn't throw away and they took it all for safekeeping!). I told Michael I'd never been there and he said, sadly, that he hears that a lot from us natives!

I'm so thrilled to have made this "discovery" and can't wait to take my grandchildren in the future. I've always loved Atlanta and have so many wonderful memories of growing up here when it was still a small city but have stories my mom and grandmother have told me about it being a small town!

The other joy I had is knowing that my family memorabilia is now in safekeeping for many to enjoy. In this box we also found a handwritten genealogy from 1897 written as a narrative about a branch of my grandmother's family (Waters) from around Spartanburg. It starts with the founding of the Virginia colonies! It's been in my parent's attic since my grandmother's death over 30 years ago! But, it is thankfully intact and fairly readable. After some family members get to see it, I am taking it to the Center where it will remain, safely, for anyone interested in looking at it or doing historical research.

I applaud you in including the Center in your suggestion of places to visit. Next....do one with cheap places to take your grandchildren that won't break a single grandmother's budget!!!

-- Barbara Smith, Tucker

Dear Barbara: you are not alone in not visiting some of Atlanta treasures. I sometimes think that visitors to the city often know more about it than people who live here, and maybe many who have lived here a long time. Perhaps our readers will help on where to take grandkids on a budget! --eeb

9/3: Feels Kerry insulted, accused, denigrated other soldiers

Editor, the Forum:

The writer ("UPSET OVER VIETNAM VETERANS BEING ATTACKED DURING CAMPAIGN", August 31) seems to have forgotten that John Kerry himself, upon returning home from his brief tour in Viet Nam, insulted, accused, and denigrated not only himself, but every other soldier that served in that war with his statements to the government hearings and to the press.

He is also the one who started this campaign with his Viet Nam service as the prime qualification for his run for the presidency. He is the one who wants to gain politically from his record. His dissenters have nothing to gain by telling the truth. The men who are questioning his qualifications were there. They know what happened. It's all a matter of who you believe. As far as the last 14 words of the writer's statement, ("No one has the right to belittle or degrade their service to our country.") everyone has the right.

-- Lynn Everly, Suwanee

7/13: Raises questions of new Gwinnett dog playing grounds

Editor, the Forum:

It's nice that Gwinnett will have a dog park, but there are a couple of concerns I have. Although I'd love to take my dogs to such a place, I'd have some fears. One, that someone would accidentally leave the gate open after going in and my dogs could escape. Maybe they've built the gates in a way to prevent this, but since I've never been to a dog park, I have no experience with how this works.

Another concern is that unleashed dogs just might not get along with all the other dogs. My own dogs get along great with each other, but sometimes introducing another one into the mix can be very tricky. My hope would be that only very responsible people with well-trained dogs would go to this park, but we know that won't happen. So, what happens when fights break out?

And another concern about the park is that people with un-neutered and un-spayed dogs will go there. What's to prevent more litters? We kill 90,000 - 100,000 unwanted animals a year in metro Atlanta, so this kind of situation could exacerbate our already horrendous overpopulation problem.

And therein lies my last concern. Shouldn't the county have spent the money used for the park on spaying and neutering every animal adopted from the county shelter before it goes to its new home? Fulton County does this, so why can't Gwinnett? To release an unspayed or unneutered animal from the shelter is just not smart. There's no way the shelter can enforce 100 percent compliance with the state spay/neuter law for animals adopted from shelters.

So, on goes the merry-go-round. Some get off and more get on. The only way to stop this is to make sure no animal leaving the shelter will be able to breed.

-- Louise Stewart, Norcross

7/13: Wants to take America back by backing Kerry and Edwards

Editor, the Forum:

This is a call to make a serious commitment to take America back from greed and selfish interests. It is time to bring back the values that once made America the most admired country in the world, not because of its power, but because of its compassion, honesty and altruism.

I believe the Kerry-Edwards ticket is our best chance to get America back. We need to support a president who will get our jobs back, who will fight for affordable health care for those who need it most, someone who cares for the environment and will not allow us to become hostages to Middle Eastern oil, someone who will make America a safer place to live, not through the "colonialistic" bullish attitude that has earned us the world's hatred that is constantly placing us in jeopardy. Let's put sanity back in the White House.

-- Monica Hayden, Lawrenceville

7/6: See Fahrenheit 9/11: You can learn disturbing truths

Editor, the Forum:

Presidents Reagan and Bush raised taxes because it was the right thing for the country, and no leader had ever lowered taxes during a war. But Bush is focused on his "legacy" of cutting taxes and "a free and democratic" Iraq. With no WMD's and no connection between Iraq and the 9/11 attack, we are only there because George wants us there. So I went to Fahrenheit 9-11, expecting it to be mindless propaganda. Instead, I learned disturbing truths, not from the mouth of Michael Moore, but from Bush himself.

Ours is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. We owe it to those who have bled out on Iraqi sand, and the countless before them who died on foreign soil for our freedoms, to engage our brains and to hold our leaders accountable when they take us to war. If you truly love your country, see this movie. Like it, debunk it, debate it, but see it.

Edward R. Murrow said, "A nation of sheep will beget a government of wolves." We must not be one of the sheep. We must not equate questioning our leaders with a lack of patriotism, or worse, some form of terrorism. Instead, we must start thinking again: of ourselves, by ourselves, and for ourselves. We cannot honor our dead with anything less.

-- M. J. Buckman, Lilburn

7/2: Muslims and Jews share the past; need to come together

Editor, the Forum:

As Muslims, our heartfelt wish is for the anger and hatred on both sides to die down, for the bloodshed to stop, and for peace to come to both lands. We oppose both the Israeli killing of innocent Palestinians and the radical Palestinians bombing of innocent Israelis. In fact there is absolutely no reason for there to be such a war.

1) Muslims and Jews believe in one God, the Creator of the universe and all things therein. We are all God's servants, and to Him shall we all return. So why hate each other?

2) Instead of living along with Muslims, would the observant Jews prefer to live along with atheists or pagans? The Torah is full of passages describing the terrible cruelties inflicted upon the Jews by pagans. The terrible genocide and cruelty inflicted upon them by atheists and unbelievers is clear for all to see.

These atheist or pagan forces hated the Jews, and thus oppressed them, because they believed in God. Are not Jews and Muslims on the same side against these atheist, communist, or racist forces that hate them both?

3) Muslims and Jews love and respect many of the same prophets. The Prophets Ibrahim (Abraham), Ishaq (Isaac), Yusuf (Joseph), Musa (Moses), or Dawud (David), peace be upon them all, are at least as important for Muslims as they are for Jews.

4) The fundamental values of Jews are also sacred to us Muslims. The word "Israel" is the name of Prophet Ya'qub (Jacob), peace be upon him, who is praised in the Qur'an and remembered with great respect by Muslims.

This is our call to the Jews, a People of the Book: As people who believe in God and obey His commands, let us come together in a common formula of "faith."

-- Kemal Dohak, Istanbul, Turkey

6/29: Wants support of local soldiers as they leave for Iraq

Editor, the Forum:

Despite the state of your own bank account, Americans have not let selfishness seep in.

Just a few weeks ago, the Dacula Memorial Day parade and festivities celebrated our veterans and serving military personnel-men and women who served and serve selflessly. Some of our residents will be deploying to Iraq in the next few months. We are able to distance our feelings and emotions during the Memorial Day Parade, but an actual deployment of our neighbors is up-close, real, and personal.

Staff Sergeant Josh Emmett, in civilian life a police officer, and Sergeant Mike Dasher, a franchise representative, of the 14th Marines, Marine Corp Reserve located in Chattanooga, will deploy to Iraq to continue the war for freedom from terrorism there and at home. They will soon leave their families, friends, jobs, and familiar surroundings to face months of separation, loneliness, and potential hostilities in their service to their country. They will represent us in Iraq.

Their families, Brandy and Sydney Emmett and Michele, Alyssa and Caleb Dasher, will miss them and suffer their separations in silence and with foreboding. They know that reservists will serve when called. Probably one of the most heart-wrenching issues for these men is how to tell their children that daddy will be away for a while.

As they deploy, the Corps will provide support for these Marines, and we will back up their families at home with prayers, good wishes, and a support system. As a part of the encouragement system, it is time, once again, for yellow ribbons to show our support of and prayers for the Emmett and Dasher families-and all the soldiers who are serving us. Please display these yellow ribbons on your homes, businesses and public places. I know Josh Emmett and Mike Dasher will appreciate the encouragement and support while they are absent. I know I will.

-- Jim Wilbanks, mayor, City of Dacula

6/29: Waits until return of sanity and objectivity in news

Editor, the Forum:

In your piece about media bashing, the most interesting paragraph, to me, was:
"Most respected media usually have no pre-set agenda, go about reporting and commenting on every day matters and catch the devil at times from all sides."

Yea, verily!! A few bad apples always spoil the others in the barrel. In my humble, but experienced opinion, that's what has happened and is still happening to the media. Network television news programs along with some of the nation's largest, and, heretofore, influential newspapers along with--dare I say it?--the heretofore almost always dependable Associated Press…..have kicked over nearly all traces of objectivity.

Out here in the hinterland, however, there are still pockets of objective journalism that we can hope will keep a pilot light of totally honest reporting alive, while the hot fires of the so-called new journalism, including "investigative and interpretive reporting" burn themselves out.

Long before "investigative and interpretive" came into general use, the media (mostly newspapers) were doing that kind of stuff in an honest and straight forward way with apologies to nobody. It was done sparingly and selectively by reporters and editors who were more concerned with accuracy than sensationalism.

When the media has been sufficiently bashed, it seems entirely likely that a semblance of sanity will return to the business. After all, it is a business and when the bottom line begins to cause panic (it's already causing concern) there are likely to be some noteworthy changes made.

-- Doug Donehue, Charleston, S.C.

6/25: Feels Iraq war is just, and U.S. must use unconventional means

Editor, the Forum:

I am extremely upset and disappointed with your article last week on "Just Wars." The very idea that you could call Vietnam, Korea, and even World War II as just, but yet state that the Iraq conflict is unjustifiable borders on warped political insanity. You obviously have succumbed to the same liberal bias of your national press brethren.

Why is the removal of a brutal tyranny today any different than in 1941? Why have you so easily forgotten the savagery and loss of American lives on September 11th? Saddam harbored and financed those terrorists and supported their efforts for years.

Is your political hatred of the current administration so intense that it blinds you of our moral and justifiable defense of our nation and our freedom? Senator Joe Lieberman has been extremely vocal in his support of the war. President Clinton in his "60 Minutes" interview last week stated that the Iraqis are better off with Saddam gone.

The war against terrorism will be difficult and long. It will be fought as often by unconventional methods as by traditional tactics. Mistakes will be made but the effort and resolve must never waver if we are to be rid of these vermin. The fact that our European neighbors don't have the stomach should never be a deterrent to our efforts. Quite frankly it is the same folks for the most part who stood by and let Hitler overrun Europe.

Our troops and military personnel need our support as they seek to defend our democracy. I realize that same democracy has the guaranteed right of a free press. I also realize a healthy debate of the issues is basic to that right, but the debate should not become outright denial by the press of the problem. Your article denies that we are fighting for a just cause and you are dead wrong.

The facts, supported by countless UN resolutions, are that Saddam was a terrorist who had subjected his own people to his brutality. Thank goodness President Bush has not wavered in the face of blistering, unsubstantiated attacks by the press. I say all this realizing that you, like your left wing pacifist brethren, will not be swayed. I, therefore, will exercise one of my guaranteed rights of a free democracy. I cannot, given your views on this issue, continue to financially support your publications.

-- David E. Snell, Snellville

Dear David: We respect your opinion presented here, which is obviously different from ours. We also commend you for the reasoned approach of your thoughts, unlike some of the material we receive. We thank you for the support your firm has given us and other entities around here over the years. We are disappointed to lose you as a supporter.--eeb

6/25: Remembers father's comment considering smoking

Editor, the Forum:

The mention you made about smoking in this week's Forum caused me to recall what my father, Ferris, told me at least 40 years ago (when public perception of smoking was much more lenient):

"There's a lot of fine people that smoke, but ALL the sorry ones smoke."

-- Lee Hutchins, Hog Mountain

6/25: Felt signing petition about movie was right thing to do

Editor, the Forum:

Even though I am not a Republican, I signed that petition (about Michael Moore's upcoming movie "Fahrenheit 9/11" on the Internet) because it was the right thing to do. All through Clinton's problems, I never attacked him because it would not have been the right thing to do.

There is nothing right or wrong about Democrats or Republicans, but there is right and wrong.

-- Roy McCreary, Dacula

6/22: Maintains media doesn't report view of war he sees

Editor, the Forum:

Once again I must take offense at your column about the war in Iraq, or as you would rather call it, the "Bush father and son wars." Please stop believing what you read and hear in the liberal media. Check out some other side views, like Fox News, who are not quite as biased as the AJC and New York Times.

You will see daily stories about many folks living in Iraq who ARE approaching our soldiers and thanking them for the efforts to stop the problems that were happening daily in their country.

The Democratic controlled liberal media (which I still consider you a member) absolutely refuse to cover any "good" story about this action. Rather they focus only on the information, (accurate or not, that is not the issue to them) about the problems with this war. War is ugly; any and all war is ugly; and we as Americans must accept that situation when we take action.

If you stop and look at the information that the Clinton administration left for President Bush to work from you will see that no other logical decision could be reached except to go to war or back down like Bill Clinton did and completely lose all respect for our country.

Just once in your Forum I would love to see some type of POSITIVE reporting of the facts of this war and why we are there.

-- Steve Rausch, Norcross

(Dear Steve: Thank you for presenting your side. There you go again, giving us the slanted views of the Bush Administration, Fox News, other conservative media, and the various Clinton bashers. When will you take off the rose-colored shades? We do agree on one thing: war is ugly. And that makes lot of people question anyone who starts a war.-eeb)

6/22: Found GOP backing "anti" Web site about Michael Moore movie

Editor, the Forum:

While looking for information about Michael Moore's upcoming movie "Fahrenheit 9/11" on the Internet, I was directed to a site called "Move America Forward." The purpose of the site was to attack Moore by urging people to phone, send e-mails and letters to persuade theater-owners to refuse to show the movie.

WHOSIS, a searchable database, revealed that a GOP consultation firm, Russo Marsh & Rogers, set up Move America Forward. A short time later, the name of the Russo firm was "disappeared" from WHOSIS - they obviously don't want publicity about their smear campaign.

The Republicans must really be desperate, when they have to hire a public relations firm to try to prevent the public from viewing a movie. Perhaps they are afraid that people who have only seen or read government-approved "news" about the Bush administration will now discover the truth.

-- Ben Adams, Los Angeles, Calif.

6/18: Bank issues call for leaving your Euro change in Europe

Editor, the Forum:

Here is something for your readers, if they are visiting Europe this summer. Let me suggest that they leave their coins behind when they return home.

According to the Bundesbank, Europe is running out of Euros in cash form, just a few years after the introduction of the currency. The Bundesbank, which looks after the European Single Currency in Germany, says consumers are hoarding their one, two and five cent pieces, while Euro minters are having trouble fulfilling extra orders from the central banks because of a lack of steel on the world market largely due to Chinese growth.

In recent years, increased demand in China for oil, raw materials and steel has led to considerable price hikes. The Bundesbank has now called on the public to use the Euro coins they've been piling up at home when they go shopping and to pay exact amounts as much as possible, while retailers are requested to accept more small change.

-- Larry Zani, Kaiserslauten, Germany

6/15: Shorty Howell comes to mind watching Nick Green play

Editor, the Forum:

Recently I had the opportunity to enjoy an Atlanta Braves game with some unusual Gwinnettians, who are true "big league" parents. They are Mike and Vicki Green, parents of Nick Green, a now well- documented Duluth native who is making a big splash in his major league debut with the Braves.

As has been well chronicled by the local media, this is truly a story of 'hometown boy does well." It begins with a down to earth family with twin boys, one of whom made his way from the youth leagues of Duluth to the "big show", to use the player's jargon.

As we talked about what it feels like to be parents of major league player, it was not surprising that the Greens' expressed all the usual emotions, that of excitement, joy, pride, and appreciation for their son's accomplishment. But as we reflected on years ago, during our youth league days, Mike could not help but express only one disappointment, when he said, "I only wish Mr. Shorty (Howell) could be here". A lump came to my throat as I very much realized what he meant by that remark.

For the record, J.T. "Shorty" Howell Park on Pleasant Hill Road was named for a most unique person, who was not only living at the time, but was the park's caretaker for the first 15 or so years it was open! Mr. Shorty took enormous pride in mowing the grass, smoothing the infield and lining the fields where thousands of boys and girls enjoyed themselves.

It was interesting to remember, as we sat in Turner Field, that one of his loyal helpers was Mike Green, who always wanted to be sure that Shorty could get home before midnight after circling the dusty fields of the park which carries his name. Even though he died several years ago, some how Mike, Shorty must know that one of his boys made it to the major leagues and he undoubtedly has that ear-to-ear grin of his, which says it all!

Unlike many bridges and highways, the naming of a county park for Shorty Howell has real meaning for Gwinnett's big league family.

-- Charles Summerour, Duluth

6/15: Church Sunshine Club brings respite for caregivers

Editor, the Forum:

The Sunshine Club sponsored by the Norcross First United Methodist Church celebrated it fifth anniversary last week with a luncheon honoring its founder, and volunteer director, Dr. Bill Hamner. He, along with his wife, Mary Alice, had started a similar organization in Nashville, prior to retiring to Norcross.

The purpose of the Sunshine Club is to give a respite to families and caregivers with a loved one who suffer with dementia/Alzheimer's disease. The most frequently made comment by family caregivers is, "I just couldn't make through the week without the Sunshine Club and the four hours of rest and relief that it gives us."

The Sunshine Club meets each Friday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the church Fellowship Hall. Meetings are open to all persons in the county. The cost is $8 per day and club members bring a bag lunch.

For more information on the club contact its volunteer director, Peggy Irons at 770-446-8327 or the church's parish nurse, Mary Lauder, at 770-448-4142 ext 116. A pamphlet is also available by calling the church.

-- Howard Fox, Norcross

6/15: Feels that election of any president is lesser of the evils

Editor, the Forum:

The election of any President has always required a selection between the lesser of two evils. Any third party, better candidate never stands a chance and only splits the vote. The upcoming presidential election will be no different.

-- Roy McCreary, Dacula

6/15: Find "On Eagle's Wings" photos at this Irish Web site

Editor, the Forum:

I did not see you in the audience in Belfast at the Odyssey Arena, but I appreciate reading your kind words. It was a real privilege to be included in the group of choristers from Georgia who sang on the stage. You might enjoy seeing some great action photos at Peter Corry's web site -- http://www.petercorry.com/eagleswing01.html . Enjoy!

-- Rosie O'Neill, Lilburn

6/11: Duluth UGA grad upset with stewardship of Dr. Adams

(Editor's Note: Duluth Resident Dick Daneke responded to a message from the University of Georgia written by President Michael Adams in this manner. GwinnettForum obtained permission from Mr. Daneke to reprint his views. -eeb.)

Dear UGA:

Although this email to which I am replying is not from Dr. Michael Adams, I would like to note my disappointment in his stewardship.

As an alumni and a proud Georgian, I find Dr. Adams' academic improvements stale, delayed, and trite. For two years, the web page promoting his vision and efforts on this front was not updated!

New buildings are on campus but entering students are still herded into large classes led by Teaching Assistants. How much of the drop in enrollment over the first two years could be attributed to poor teaching and presentation?

Parking and transportation have worsened as large decks have been added and roads eliminated.

Campus housing is being renovated - reducing available living space - as policy dictates more students must reside on campus!

As for his efforts to elevate the school's reputation, his efforts have dishonored our traditions, disappointed our supporters, and discouraged our students athletes.

Could the Board of Regents move to sever University Foundation help be a power play to maintain the funding and get rid of the fundraisers?

I agree that traditional groups that have supported UGA have been distracted by Dr. Adams. But, wouldn't it be easier to replace him than to replace those that have disagreed with him - like the UGA Foundation board, the supporting athletic community, the tenured faculty, the dispirited alumni, etc.

-- Dick Daneke, Duluth

6/11: Says still need for old medical books for Iraqi doctors

Editor, the Forum:

Last year, I passed along a message about a US military doctor requesting English language medical books for Iraqi doctors. During the past many years, they have been unable to update their medical libraries.

As we all know, medical updates occur often. Meanwhile most Western doctors update their libraries fairly often and then pitch the replaced books, or at least they gather dust in hidden places.

Thanks to your help and of many other people, more than 2000 English language medical books were sent to Iraq. They are now in a medical library in the health services building in Kirkuk, serving the many doctors in the hospitals and clinics in this city of some 500, 000 persons.

But the need for more books continues. The original medical doctor has moved on, but his efforts have been taken over by another doctor. If you can help or have friends and family in the medical profession who can be of help with this, please send the books to:

• Col. Jack Zimmerly, 451 CA Battalion, APO AE 09347

Thanks.

-- Larry Zani, Kaiserlauten, Germany

6/11: Could UGA be characterized as cloutful cash cow?

Editor, the Forum:

On hearing reports of the "banishment" of the UGA foundation from its longtime working relationship, I am compelled to ask the following:

(1) Could the UGA (or other large educational institutions) be considered politically cloutful "CASH COWS?"

(2) Might there be reason for persons unscrupulous to want to control same?

(3) Could large alumni associations be considered politically cloutful "CASH COWS" with potentially large amounts of funding available for discretionary use?

(4) Might there be reason for persons unscrupulous to want to control same?

(5) Could Vince Dooley be employed as UGA President or made a member of the Board of Regents (I will guarantee you he would have a badly needed perspective to offer re such questions)?

Statement: I've heard of "foxes in the henhouse" before; however, now it seems that they have developed a "bovine" appetite. And that's no bull!

-- Randy Stephens, Duluth