About a recent story in the Times Free Press, "During Chattanooga visit, EPA chief says stricter mileage standards hurt new car sales and safety:"
EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler argued cleaner car standards will raise car prices an average of $2,300.
Achieving the current standard of 54.5 mpg by 2025 could save Tennesseans $3,200 per car and $4,800 per truck in gas. This benefits our pocketbook and our health.
Carbon pollution is linked to increased risk of heat waves, droughts, wildfires and floods.
These environmental impacts take a toll on Tennesseans' health. More than 30,000 people in Hamilton County with asthma and 33,000 residents with cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for asthma attacks, strokes and premature death.
The American Lung Association opposes efforts to roll back cleaner car standards.
Christine Hart, American Lung Association in Tennessee, Nashville
***
Too many concerns for Walden property
How can the Walden Town Board be expected to approve a rezoning request for the Lines Orchids property with many unknowns regarding this development?
The location raises concerns regarding stormwater contamination (gasoline, oil and antifreeze) from vehicles and the onsite fuel station. It is especially troublesome with Middle Creek initiating downhill from this development.
Since sewers are not available at this location, an onsite sewage system will be required to treat all waste. The sludge will be removed, and the liquids will be discharged into the soil through a drip irrigation system. Neighborhoods are contiguous and downhill from this development. What if the soils do not support this large onsite sewage system? What happens if the system fails to function properly? Who will have operational and financial responsibility to rectify these problems?
I suggest that before the Board votes: (1) a detailed engineering, soil and geological study be performed by trusted, independent engineers with emphasis on water runoff and requirements for an appropriate septic system, and (2) the water retainment and all septic component locations should be identified on the site plan with confirmation of their adequacy by our engineers.
Gary Smith, Signal Mountain
***
Virtual academy benefits extolled
We've been with Tennessee Virtual Academy (TNVA) four years now, and we're proud to be a virtual school family. Our daughter, Breanna, struggled with dyslexia, ADD and cognitive skills in brick-and-mortar school yet advanced grade after grade without her issues being addressed. Things looked bleak for Breanna. Breanna was in tears most days, either begging not to go to school or to come home early.
All that changed once we enrolled her at TNVA. Breanna's confidence began to soar. She's able to work at her own pace and really take the time to understand lessons thoroughly before moving on. She's not rushed, she's relaxed, and she's thriving because of it. Public school at home is an ideal learning environment for Breanna. She has dedicated teachers working with her one on one, small groups, extra support and resources when needed. It's just amazing.
With her new found academic success, Breanna now has time for extracurricular activities like volleyball and dance. TNVA has provided a whole-child educational opportunity for Breanna. Breanna loves attending school at TNVA, and we are looking forward to another great school year.
Sue Durham
***
'One Nation' article was reporter opinion
The news article on Sunday, Sept. 8, by Wyatt Massey, staff writer, about the presentation, "One Nation Under God," by historian and author David Barton was anything but a news article. The news article became an opinion article, which became an opportunity to discredit Barton, which became a one-sided rebuttal.
Apparently, Mr. Massey found it easier to criticize and discredit rather than write as a journalist digging into the facts by talking with Barton about his sources after the event about species and homosexuality and his book, "The Jefferson Lies."
So, in fairness to your readers, attached is the link to Mr. Barton's presentation at http://www.chattanoogateaparty.com/watch-david-barton-at-one-nation-under-god/, and they can judge for themselves.
Mr. Massey overstepped reporting the Barton tenants regarding the Christian foundation of our nation and used his article to refute Barton's statements. He used unnamed and non-cited references to oppose Barton.
R. Craig McGarvey, Ed.D.
***
Does Nadler have short-man syndrome?
I am not sure, but could [House Judiciary Committee Chairman] Jerry Nadler suffer from short-man syndrome? He is always so defensive and talks all the time but never really says anything.
If Biden does not make the cut, he may have a future in movies. When I have my glasses on, he looks as if he could be a good "Joker."
I think it is real possible that Warren could be a golfer. She always has her hands high up in the air.
As a child we had a neighbor that had hair like Bernie's. He was nice, but we ran when he came maybe we should do that today.
You cannot watch these folks on television and not have not some thoughts about them. We do have choices.
Ruth Cote, Hixson
***
Can TFP not find impartial sources?
Your banner says your squadron mission is "To give the news impartially, without fear or favor," and, yet, your only two sources of national/international news seem to be The New York Times and the Associated Press. As has become obvious in recent years, neither of these entities is a bastion of impartial reporting, particularly the NYT, which should more appropriately be titled "The Democratic Party Opinion Journal."
The people at the NYT have spent almost three years trying to undo the free election of Donald Trump, and, yet, said virtually nothing about his predecessor giving hundreds of millions of dollars in cash to the largest sponsor of terrorism in the world. Surely there must be some source of world news that is a little closer to the strike zone.
Gus Spahr, Red Bank
***
Consider merits of 'robot tax'
As a 35-year tax attorney with a belief in free-market capitalism, I find it striking I have something in common with radical New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. It centers on an idea important to the Chattanooga area economy: a "robot tax."
Machinery can replace labor. And from an income tax perspective, labor has long been discriminated against. If you work, in addition to your paying income tax, you and your employer must pay wage withholding taxes. In addition, depending on hours worked and the employer, the employer may have to pay for your health insurance (or a penalty). And the employer typically only can write off your wages in the year accrued.
These things drive up the cost of labor. But machines that replace labor benefit from accelerated depreciation (100% of cost can be written off in year one), plus no health insurance cost or employment taxes.
Since artificial intelligence and robotics are presenting a threat to labor, it is time to look at how the tax system disfavors human employment. The argument innovation gives rise to new jobs seems dated in view of the versatility of new technology. De Blasio's proposals are predictably overbearing and bureaucratic, but he has at least brought attention to a tax that would benefit from future dialogue.
David Mittelstadt, Rossville, Georgia