Free trade and Volkswagen
With the UAW vote over with and all the rhetoric from our local and national politicians quiet for the moment, let us look at the real factor for acquiring a new production line at the Chattanooga VW plant. This is the second time Chattanooga has been in consideration for a VW expansion, with VW choosing Mexico the last time. The issue is not one of union representation; it is one of free trade status. Vehicles produced in Mexico enjoy free status due to Mexican politicians seeing the big global picture, which allows manufacturers there to compete worldwide. As long as the United States chooses not to participate in worldwide free trade, our United States manufacturers (VW included) will be limited in their markets. Sen. Corker, I believe this is an issue you can have an impact on.
JEFFREY EASTMAN, Athens, Tenn.
Understanding the Muslim way
Killing in the name of Allah in the Muslim society is not news; it is a way of life. Recently, 13 people were killed while enjoying a romantic movie in a crowded theater in Pakistan. Righteous Muslims took responsibility, declaring that the movie was obscene and influenced by Western culture. Some Muslims are motivated by their religious belief that they must destroy whatever conflicts with true Islam. They are a dangerous enemy of civilized society. In Islam there is a specific doctrine of “absolute submission” that motivates Muslims to obey Allah and his messenger. For Muslims, obedience is important because it opens the gates of paradise. Lack of obedience is sure hell. Those who obey, fight and die for Islam, Allah has a ready paradise for them. To win the favor of Allah, Muslims take very seriously the mandate to kill infidels and immoral people. It is really all about getting into paradise! The West and Americans have a hard time understanding this doctrine. They wonder, “Are they all just crazy?” I can assure you, these people are not crazy. They are following a religion. If you understand this, none of their actions will even surprise you.
AMOS TAJ, Ooltewah
Let voters be signers
Regarding the petition to recall Chris Anderson, I believe if anyone in District 7 did not vote in the general election, they should not be allowed to sign the petition.