U.S. needs to know a second language
Re: “Spanish classes are thriving,” commentary by Andres Oppenheimer, Dec. 26.
Oppenheimer states it is “good news for those of us who want increasingly closer U.S. ties with Spanish-speaking countries” that more college students are taking Spanish. I agree.
Oppenheimer states that despite “anti-immigration hysteria of recent years,” “Arizona-style anti-immigration measures,” and “Hispanic-phobic anti-immigration advocates,” the increase in Spanish learners isn’t a threat to U.S. culture. I agree increasing the study of Spanish is not a threat to U.S. culture.
The real threat to our culture is classifying those against illegal immigration as bigots as Oppenheimer suggests.
Oppenheimer is correct stating “in a highly-competitive global economy, speaking more than one language is a big asset” and cites China for making English classes mandatory in public elementary schools. China understands its population should learn English, yet China does not have an illegal English-speaking immigration problem. We Americans also understand the importance of learning other languages, including Spanish. I am an Argentine native, a legal immigrant and U.S. citizen. I teach Spanish in secondary school.
China, as well as Mexico, has stricter anti-illegal immigration laws. Why should law-abiding U.S. citizens be chastised by the likes of Oppenheimer for demanding properly secured borders?
MERCEDES AKERS
Signal Mountain
Carter best choice to be county mayor
It is time that to select the best for the mayor of Hamilton County. That person at this time is Mike Carter. I have nothing against Mr. Coppinger, but I feel he will best serve us in the position that he now holds. He has been good in that position, and since this is a short time to serve in the mayor slot (19 months) let us place a good man who has worked close with Mayor Ramsey and knows the office to help lead us until August 2012.
The leadership of the county commissioner will be a good group to watch out for us citizens during the next two budgets that the mayor will give them to decide and spend the money wisely. Then anyone who wants to “run” for the remaining two years can do so at that time. The people will make their wishes known at that time.
Let’s make this about Hamilton County citizens, not about oneself or the dislike of someone because they are supporting one of the two seeking the title now.
Our county is on the edge of having some greatness coming. Please help us to grow and do not put “petty politics first.”
MARGARET H. CHASTAIN
Soddy-Daisy