Sen. Alexander, stand for us again
Dear Sen. Alexander,
I was born and raised in Tennessee during the 1970s and ’80s. Everyone referred to you as the “education governor.” It’s no secret we were close to the bottom in scores and educational opportunities. You crisscrossed our state in that silly red, plaid shirt making the case for us. As a now grown woman and lawyer from a blue-collar family, I will always be in your debt.
Further, I got the opportunity to meet “Miss Honey,” and it changed my life. She was lovely and genteel the picture of the Southern lady I wanted to become. I truly loved and felt like you were a part of my family.
To my purpose: This presidential administration has adopted a policy of “family separation.” That’s a nice way of saying putting kids in cages. I could write 20 pages about what that means; my “education governor” did a good job with me.
I know you know better. I know you have more kindness in you. There was a time when I’m sure some people thought Appalachia/rural Tennessee kids belonged in cages. You and Miss Honey stood up for us.
It’s time you stand again.
Bethany Conover
Do our officials stand with Trump?
The recent news from Helsinki, where the president of the United States stood beside the authoritarian Russian leader and maintained that both the U.S. and Russia were at fault over the present poor state of our relationship, was bizarre and shocking. The news grew even worse when Mr. Trump went on to say that he believed Putin, rather than U.S. intelligence sources and the U.S. Justice Department, over whether there had been Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Mr. Trump’s odd statements have once again demeaned the United States, and it is credible to believe that he has committed treason. It is time for action, whether through the constitutionally prescribed impeachment process or through the steps provided for in the 25th Amendment. Concerned Americans need to contact their federal, state, and local elected officials and request that they make public statements as to whether they agree with Mr. Trump and stand with him in his eccentricities.
This is a critical moment in history, and those who represent us, no matter what office, need to be held accountable.
David Cofield
LaFayette, Ga.
Brawl at July 14 concert inexcusable
The opening concert in the Riverfront Nights series featuring Muscadine Bloodline (July 14) was marred by a nasty brawl that broke out right in front of the stage on the band’s final number. Appalled concert-goers expected a quick intervention that never happened. As band members exhorted the crowd to calm down and requested security, the fight was rekindled three times, and still no security or police appeared.
This is an inexcusable lapse by the promoter, Friends of the Festival. Ironically, the concert is billed as “family-friendly” and “promotes healthy lifestyles.” Memo to Friends: If you are going to sell beer, then you need to provide security.
When I think of the legions of police that are required to be present at the Strut, it is amazing that not one policeman was there to break up this fight. On the way home, we walked through Coolidge Park where the police were present and visible for the movie in the park presented by First Things First.
The children were all well behaved.
John C. Reis