Passionate Prose | Letters to the Editor

A good deed, a grammar lesson and more

That’s what we do

Several months ago, I was walking out of a west-side grocery store when I noticed an elderly gentleman with a cane having a difficult time loading his groceries in his car. I went over and began to help him. He was grateful for the help. I noticed a blue sticker on his car from the Naval Joint Reserve Base along with one indicating he was a retired full colonel. When I finished helping him, he said, “Thank you very much.” I responded with a snappy salute and a, “No problem, colonel, my pleasure.”
His face lit up like a West Texas sunrise. I walked away thinking here is a man who has given his whole life in defense of our country. But out there, in that cold, rainy parking lot, it didn’t make any difference that he was a colonel and I was just a sergeant. It was one veteran helping another in need. That’s what we do.
— Bill Woodard, Fort Worth

Know thy grammar

Regarding letter writer Joe Nelson’s comment that “it’s ‘my family and I’ and not ‘me and my family’ ” — sometimes it’s “my family and me.” (See: “Grammar matters,” June 1) Had Jerry Jones said the new Cowboys stadium was a gift from Arlington taxpayers to my family and me, he would have been correct on two levels.
— Sharon Morrow, Arlington

Regarding the June letter from Joe Nelson of Southlake: Depending on the context of Jerry Jones’ new stadium comment (which I did not hear), and being a stickler for grammar, thanks to the awesome Sisters of St. Mary of Namur at Our Lady of Victory, “me and my family” would be accurate if preceded by a preposition “between” or “for” (necessitating objective case). What really irks me is when “between my family and I” or “for my family and I” are said. Always following a preposition (look them up), it is objective case.
As Sister Margaret Rose would say, “Woe betide you” in the error of your grammatical ways. The nuns at Our Lady of Victory still rock.
— Brenda Dolenz Helmer, Fort Worth

Disturbing image

I am old enough to know that “I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds” is what Robert Oppenheimer quoted from the Bhagavad Gita when he observed the first atomic bomb explode in New Mexico in 1945. It’s even more frightening when North Korea’s leader says it today, even in a cartoon. (See: Cam Cardow, The Ottawa Citizen editorial cartoon, May 31)
— Bruce Rider, Grapevine

What are the odds?

If any of my fellow Arlington residents have had their water meters actually read, I sure would like to know about it. The water department isn’t even pretending to read mine. My bill for last month was $100.88. This month’s bill is (guess what) $100.88.
C’mon, you don’t have to be a statistician to see the likelihood of that.
— Nancy Johnson, Arlington

Unfathomable vote

Author Richard Florida’s theory says a critical form of an urban area’s worth is human capital, made up of people who create “a good job market, economy, thick amenities (restaurants, arts, parks, etc.), appealing aesthetics, safe neighborhoods, viable public transportation or connectivity, etc.” That’s ironic at this time when the Texas Legislature has just usurped North Texas’ choice to construct the railways and roads that we desperately need to start now in order to prevent future gridlock on our roads, highways and freeways.
The human capital of North Texas — almost all our elected officials, members of Chambers of Commerce, residents committed to stopping gridlock and relieving pollution, etc. — fought hard for local-option taxing authority. I cannot fathom why legislators, most of whom do not represent North Texans, voted against our choice.
— Marguerite McKinney, Fort Worth

American Taliban

And now for a message from the American Taliban. After 16 years of effort, Dr. George Tiller has been successfully killed. Marked for extermination and demonized by groups like “Operation Rescue,” who called him a “monster” and “murderer,” the second shooting, at his church no less, finished him off. The first shooting in 1993 only winged him.
So, to the righteous patriots who condemn all Muslims for not uniting to confront the terrorists among them this question: May I assume that we can expect that you will now stand en mass to renounce the murderous and lunatic fringe of American Christianity that supports and encourages such outrageous acts of violence? I doubt it.
How little different one savage religious extremist is from another.
— JT Grant, Fort Worth

Either way, ironic

While a tragic and despicable act, it’s ironic that abortion Dr. George Tiller died at the hands of another who also had no qualms in violently ending life. Whether by gun or scalpel, how one justifies the other — well, maybe, cause and effect?
Either way, the incongruent logic used in justification is a slur of gigantic proportions on the sanctity of life, and forever escapes me.
— Richard M. Holbrook, Weatherford

Zim for District 3

One of Fort Worth’s District 3’s charms is the way that, despite its vastness, former City Council representative Chuck Silcox represented it. By defying notions of politicking, Silcox made it a community, making sure that the district came first. He also left big shoes to fill.
I believe, then, Zim Zimmerman is the best candidate for the City Council run-off election in District 3. His long history living, working and volunteering in Fort Worth justifies his endorsements by the Fort Worth Police Officers Association, Brenda Silcox and four of his opponents. While working at Lockheed Martin as the vice president of product support, he, for example, volunteered as the campaign chairman for the March of Dimes, the United Way and Texas A&M alumni groups.
Just because he has retired, that doesn’t mean he is unsure of his next job: the full-time City Council member for District 3.
— James Russell, Fort Worth

Sunday’s editorial on the District 3 council election, with the obvious untrue statement that “Zimmerman is a staid, say-no-to-everything sort,” demands a reply. Webster defines “staid” as “marked by settled sedateness and often prim restraint: sober, grave; syn. see ‘serious.’” Sedate is defined as keeping a steady attitude or pace: unruffled.” That sounds like an excellent recommendation for a city councilman.
Zim served many years as vice president for product support for Lockheed Martin. Do you really believe he earned and maintained that position by saying “no to everything?” I’ve known Zim for years and served with him on committees. He’s anything but a negative person. His attitude is consistently positive. Additionally, Zim is a fiscal conservative. In these troubled economic times, we need a councilman who will be concerned about how our tax dollars are being spent.
— Earl Miller, Fort Worth

On healthcare, traffic, guns and gays

Healthcare reform

It is time for the American people to have what all other first-world nations have, and we will save massive amounts of money as a country as a result.
Under H.R. 676, we will finally pay an affordable fair-market price for an excellent healthcare system, regardless of our current or previous health conditions.
Democrats were elected to make changes, but we need the help of their Republican colleagues to make those changes. We have demanded the changes set out in H.R. 676, and we want them now!
— Jeannie Gibbons, Fort Worth

Traffic nightmare

To say that Arlington residents north of Lamar Boulevard are grossly inconvenienced by the Cowboys stadium construction would be a monumental understatement.
It is a traffic nightmare to go south on Farm Road 157 at the Lamar detour, and going north from Lincoln Square is equally bad. To compound the problem, we are being told that it will be another year before the project is finished.
Perhaps Mayor Robert Cluck and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones should leave my home in north Arlington during peak periods (as well as during off times) and attempt to get anywhere on 157. I think they would then understand what a major traffic inconvenience it is — and for an entire year?
At the very least, it would be gracious of Jones to offer some kind of lottery for our north Arlington residents to receive a certain number of free tickets to the Cowboys games. Because we were gracious enough to help pay for the stadium and suffer the traffic nightmare, this could be a form of appeasement.
— Angela Benvenuto, Arlington

We really are lucky to be living in Granbury.
The city cannot spend the tax money fast enough, so it is building a wrought-iron-and-stone-column fence around the city-owned cemetery because people are dying to get here.
However, money for any kind of road is not available. So once you get here, you can’t possibly get out because of the traffic.
— Peter Garland, Granbury

Truth and attorneys

It is curious that Dan Barrett would attempt to assert the probity of lawyers by peddling the errant falsehood that the Magna Carta, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States and its first 10 amendments were “conceived and written by lawyers.” (See: “Perhaps the AIG controversy means we are awakening,” March 20)
It bespeaks either a fundamental ignorance of history or a level of disingenuousness that severely undermines his claim that “truth and what is right are, in fact, things of paramount importance to lawyers.”
— Wm. Picou, Weatherford

Legalize gay marriage

For attorneys and students of the U.S. Constitution, it’s really a no-brainer: if a straight man and a straight woman can be married and enjoy the benefits thereof, then gay persons should be able enjoy those same rights.
Thank goodness Iowa and Vermont are the latest states to affirm that everyone, gay or straight, has the right to equal protection under the law. For my gay friends and relatives, it is a long time coming.
As a Texan who loves his state, I hope we are not the last state to legalize gay marriage. Too often, the rest of the country sees us as a state of weird religious sects and a region that dragged its feet for years on desegregation back in the 1960s.
We don’t need the U.S. Supreme Court to improve the lives of families here in North Texas right now. Every Texan should be at the forefront of this issue and lobby their representatives to change the ban on gay marriage.
It is a moral disgrace that we do not allow it.
— Gregory Coleman, Fort Worth

Personal protection

Deborah Hastings of The Associated Press used such phrases as “unleashing carnage,” “packing heat” and “hoisting shiny, big handguns” in her April 8 article, “After rampages, no national outcry.” She was expressing her opinion about the recent shootings in the U.S. and how the shootings have not provoked efforts to have stricter gun laws. Instead, just the opposite is happening.
It seems that she cannot understand that tighter gun laws will not curb violence among those who ignore laws and commit crimes of violence. By having a “gun-free” zone, we are only advertising that, in that zone, there are people who are unable to defend themselves.
Finally we are seeing that those who make the laws realize that the general law-abiding public has the right to defend itself by not being restricted in the carrying of handguns for personal defense.
There will always be those who have malicious intent. We must be sure that law-abiding citizens have the right to protect themselves against those who would rob, maim and attempt to kill them.
— Hal Gerhardt, Watauga

This is in response to Gene Thomas’ March 30 letter, “Packing heat in Texas.” One of the major reasons our Founding Fathers left Europe for the New World was that their “well-regulated militia” could move in and take control of one’s house and property for any made-up reason or excuse at any time.
The Founding Fathers gave the people the Second Amendment so we could protect our homes and property from a misguided “well-regulated militia.” It is helpful to know American and world history.
It is also helpful to know a little English grammar so you can distinguish the independent main clause — “the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed” — from the supporting, adverbial, dependent, clarifying clause that makes up the Second Amendment. Well-educated men wrote the Constitution so we “the people” would understand it.
— Kenneth G. Bond, Kennedale

Smoking ban about health

To all those who decry the smoking ban being considered by the state Legislature, I have a couple of questions.
Are you in favor of repealing the laws that require restaurants to keep their food refrigerated? After all, that’s the government telling people what they can and cannot do with their business. And on their own property sometimes!
And those silly people who want their food to be “properly” handled? They could just go eat somewhere else, right?
Oh, wait! I remember now. That’s a health issue.
— Stephen Kelly, Arlington

Be true to your name

TCU Chancellor Victor Boschini’s April 15 column was disappointing. (See: “TCU: The heritage of inclusiveness, tolerance and service will continue”)
There is no sign of remorse at all over TCU’s plans to cater to sodomites on campus.
Surely this institution was begun in the 1800s with the intention of offering Christian education and a Christian context of learning. If the university seeks to cater to the immoral practice and lifestyle of homosexuality, defending this on the ground of “inclusiveness,” it should be honest enough to take “Christian” out of the name “Texas Christian University.”
It is far better for TCU to live up to its name and strive to be more Christian — rather than more immoral and less Christian.
As it stands, let it be called “Texas University” and not claim the worthy “Christian” name.
— Richard Hollerman, Fort Worth

Support state schools

Our U.S. lawmakers need to take action and see that our people with disabilities are cared for and give them a safe, appropriate, dignified life.
Our Texas lawmakers need to support, clean up and build more state schools.
If community group homes are so good, then why are they not regulated like our state schools?
Group homes make profit their No. 1 priority.
Add surveillance cameras, more security and better wages and behavior units so that there is a place to stabilize behaviors instead of sending individuals to the state hospitals.
We need our lawmakers to stand up for our disabled, help make their future bright and give them a safe, appropriate, dignified life and support our state schools.
— Deb Collins, Jermyn

Countdown to May 9 elections

Southlake City Council

It is an honor to be a friend of John Terrell. His integrity, vision, service and leadership make our city a better place to live and work. He takes the high road (sometimes to the consternation of his supporters!) when personal attacks are thrown his way. He offers good, old-fashioned truth, transparency and results.
John has demonstrated, not just talked about, a strong partnership with the Carroll school district. His community efforts have won praise and endorsements from local mayors and elected officials throughout the area. His quest for a new and desperately needed Southlake Community Center for both our seniors and children is near fruition. Even in this economy, John has kept it on track.
While he isn’t high-gloss and doesn’t demand the spotlight, John is the right person to lead today’s Southlake. My vote goes to John Terrell for mayor.
— John Thane, Southlake

It distresses me to see a candidate for mayor of Southlake resort to “pass the buck” tactics during a campaign. When unable to answer audience questions about development issues at a meet-the-candidate forum for the mayoral candidates, John Terrell chose to try to put blame on previous City Councils. As a previous City Council member, I take exception to his accusations. When I asked him to be more specific and name the project(s) where he felt we were remiss, he chose, instead, to complain that the “room was stacked for his opponent” and never would answer the question.
I encourage people to support Rick Stacy for mayor of Southlake. He is, and always has been, a tireless worker on behalf of the residents of the city, and he certainly won’t “pass the buck.” He has the experience, desire and ability necessary for the mayor’s job. Please, vote for Rick Stacy.
— Betty Springer, Southlake

Carolyn Morris provided effective leadership as a member of the 2025 Commission that maintained and enhanced Southlake’s Community Standards. She served effectively for six years on Southlake City Council, demonstrating an intelligent understanding of community issues that she satisfactorily resolved, along with dedication, diligence and determination.
My support of Carolyn Morris for City Council Place 2 is based on serving with her on the important 2025 Commission, as a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission and a Southlake resident.
— Donald Coonan, Southlake

Please vote for my friend Marke Smith for Southlake City Council Place 2. Marke is a successful small business owner. He understands the challenges small business owners face every day. Marke will ensure that the city offers economic tools and incentives to support and assist businesses.
Marke has committed to stick to Southlake’s Master Plan and will not support high-density developments or townhomes. The votes in favor of townhomes and high-density housing by the current council were dangerous precedents that must be stopped.
Marke also will make sure that Southlake’s infrastructure and services are adequate to meet the needs of our residents. The current City Council ignored this and, last summer, Southlake ran out of water.
Please vote for Marke Smith on May 9. His leadership and perspective are badly needed on City Council.
— Barry Dickey, Southlake

Trophy Club Town Council

In this year’s candidate’s forum, Councilwoman Kathleen Wilson made not one positive comment about the Town of Trophy Club. It was a barrage of insults to everyone in our community, not just those with whom she serves. Kathleen also appears to be running in the wrong election. I suggest she wait till next year when she can run for a MUD seat. She has sided with the MUDs on all issues even though the MUDs have sued the Town and cost her constituents more than $200,000. Time to vote her out of office.
— Roger Williams, Trophy Club

Political materials recently circulated in Trophy Club have applauded increased town parks by 28 acres. The reality of this expansion is:
The Highland Public Improvement District (PID) purchased 12.9 acres for the Northwest Park at a cost of $1.7 million and the Northeast Park’s 16.1 acres for $1 million. This is approximately $93,000 per acre for undeveloped parkland. Additionally, the PID is to pay $2,475,000 for improvements to the land, totaling $5,175,000. The developer Centurion’s portion is $260,084, and the balance will be paid through assessments to future Highland home owners.
Are parklands, at what appears to be any costs, good long term? Will the maintenance and operations of these parks be affordable?
Connie White is committed to working with surrounding municipalities and the NISD for shared services and desired amenities, while holding down the costs to residents. A vote for Connie is a vote for better fiscal responsibility for all of Trophy Club.
— Richard Westerlund, Trophy Club

Haltom City Council

I was surprised to see the recent Star-Telegram article covering the father and son both running for city council seats. The timing was perfect — unless your intent is to be an impartial reporter of the news. Otherwise, having this come out on the eve of early voting was questionable.
For Haltom City, Ken Gibson will be getting my vote for Place 7. He’s a 25-year resident of this community, a homeowner, active supporter of schools and a member of the Economic Development Board. His opponent is a real estate broker who has too many business interests in the city for my taste. Ken will help us improve property values, raise sales tax revenues and, hopefully, help win us a commuter rail station, too!
Keep Haltom City on track. Vote for Ken Gibson for Place 7.
— Janell P. Gobea, Haltom City

Richland Hills Council

You need only drive around Richland Hills to realize that we have a serious need for street and curb repairs, and our residents know about our drainage problems. Our streets are unsafe and a shameful embarrassment to our city.
In spite of these facts, Mayor David Ragan, City Councilman Jeff Ritter and council candidate Ed Lopez are supporting construction of a public use building at a probable cost exceeding $400,000.
We already have a community center, which could be upgraded for significantly less. Plus, this facility has better security and parking than any other location in the city. It is sad that our elected officials are so inattentive to the needs of many and so in favor of the desires of such a small private-interest group.
For more responsible spending of our tax dollars, vote for Larry Marrs, James Blyn and Andy Baugh. And vote “no” on Proposition 1, which proposes irresponsible and unnecessary spending.
— John A. Mosher, Richland Hills

Colleyville City Council

Councilman Mike Taylor understands that protecting our homes and neighborhoods will keep our property values high and that successful commercial development will keep our tax rate low and our city strong. Mike is a positive, results-oriented, independent Colleyville leader whose influence has helped shape the Colleyville we enjoy today.
The success of projects such as the Colleyville Town Center is the result of visionary leaders like Mike who understand the need to plant the seeds of opportunity today for the residents of tomorrow. He is a laid back, approachable, respected and experienced leader with more than two decades of volunteer service in the Colleyville area. Residents appreciate his responsive and tenacious “can-do” style. Mike has the unique ability to maintain his independence in a team environment. He doesn’t seek recognition, he delivers results.
Please join me in re-electing Mike Taylor to Place 6 on the Colleyville City Council.
— Karen Thompson, Colleyville

I’m encouraging all Colleyville residents to re-elect Mike Taylor to City Council Place 6. Mike is a proven, effective leader and the real thing when it comes to community involvement and dedication. His experience dwarfs that of his opponents, with more than two decades of volunteer service to our city, school district and nonprofit organizations in the Colleyville area. Mike is a consensus builder who maintains his independence while working in a team environment. We need Mike’s experience to deal with the issues facing our city in these uncertain times. Mike shares our vision for a great residential quality of life and knows our neighborhoods and community leaders and understands our issues and concerns.
Mike is approachable, responsive, professional and highly respected. He is always courteous, friendly and has a great sense of humor. He is a model councilmember and ambassador for Colleyville. Please vote to re-elect Mike Taylor.
— Jean and Denny Threlkeld, Colleyville

Arlington school board

If you grumble at every election because no one who is running “gets it,” no one listens to your neighborhood or school, then this is the year to check out Arlington school board candidate Cheryl Smith. I know Cheryl to be a passionate, involved and informed member of the community who actually listens.
Cheryl Smith will work to resolve the district’s budget problems, prevent dropouts and create better opportunities for students at the top, middle and bottom of every class. She is aware that grades and test scores alone should not determine a child’s opportunities as an adult. Cheryl’s insight, dedication and experience will be a great asset to the Arlington school board.
Please join me in voting for Cheryl Smith for Place 3.
— Jeffrey S. Lawson, Arlington

Please vote for Aaron Reich for Place 3 on the Arlington school board. This is an open seat, and he is the person most qualified. We’ve known Aaron for years, and he is committed to making our schools a better place for our kids. He is a co-founder of a nonprofit group dedicated to helping children’s education and teachers through parent involvement and mentorship programs. He is all about making education right. Parents and grandparents should find comfort in knowing that he will look out for their children. We have a child in the school district, and we will feel very good knowing Aaron Reich is a trustee.
— Jim and Michelle Labenz, Arlington

Cheryl Smith is the most qualified candidate running for Place 3 on the Arlington school board. She has experience working in the public education system and understands first-hand the issues our district faces. Cheryl’s commitment to doing the hard work required of a school board trustee has been demonstrated by her attendance not only at board meetings but committee meetings and education-related community events as well. Cheryl has done her homework and deserves to be elected. Cheryl has earned my vote and will be a great asset to our school board.
— Angela Abram, Arlington

After interviewing candidates for the Arlington school board, the Arlington United Educators Association endorses Gloria Pena for Place 1 and Cheryl Smith for Place 3.
Seeking another term, Gloria Pena has served Arlington with distinction. Her background in finance, knowledge of the issues and challenges facing our district and ability to ask the difficult questions makes her the best candidate.
Always prepared for board meetings, Gloria works well with the other board members and has done a fine job of representing the Hispanic community. As a woman and a mother, she adds much-needed diversity, valuable insight and perspective to the school board.
 Cheryl Smith, who is running for the seat vacated by Sherri Wade, is a mediator for the Dallas Alliance of Teachers, a job that requires skill and understanding of how schools work. Her knowledge about the issues and challenges facing our district makes her highly qualified to serve.
The mother of three grown sons, she was involved in PTA and booster clubs when they attended Arlington schools. As an African-American and a woman, Cheryl will add much-needed diversity, valuable insight and perspective to the school board.
Vote for Gloria Pena and Cheryl Smith.
— Polly Walton, president, United Educators Association, Arlington

Fort Worth and Arlington voters give their reasons

Fort Worth mayor

There were no requirements for sidewalks at any drilling site per Fort Worth’s new drilling rules, yet the 2009 Commercial Development guidelines require the developer to include sidewalks.
The reason given was “gas wells were not meant to attract the general public like a commercial development.”
Sidewalks are important in the development of property as their inclusion gives a safe place for children and people who are wheelchair-bound to get out and about without walking in traffic.
This apparent lack of concern by the present administration is the reason that I support Louis McBee as Fort Worth mayor and Lupe Arriola for City Council District 4.
— Peter C. Fletcher, Fort Worth

Mayor Mike Moncrief has shown exceptional leadership abilities during his years of public service.
He has worked hard for residents by working with the City Council to use four-person staffing on all fire apparatus in the Fort Worth Fire Department. By doing so, he has better enabled firefighters to rapidly conduct a search for victims during a structure fire.
The additional benefit to the residents is the reduction in their homeowners’ insurance premiums by up to 8.2 percent through the reduction of the city’s ISO (Insurance Services Office) rating.
Also through his guidance, the City Council has helped to ensure its retirees’ hard-earned retirements were protected through legislation. I encourage you to help support Mayor Mike Moncrief’s campaign for re-election!
— Michael Glynn, Fort Worth
 

Fort Worth District 3

Zim Zimmerman is the best choice for Fort Worth City Council District 3 because of his:
1. Experience managing as many as 3,000 employees and delivering multi-million-dollar projects on budget and on time, using a listening style of leadership.
2. Civic involvement with leadership roles on the Fort Worth Board of Adjustment, United Way, March of Dimes, Colonial golf tournament and Ridglea Presbyterian Church.
3. Commitment to spend full time on duty.
4. Independence to work fully for Fort Worth residents without business conflicts.
Others do not have these qualifications.
Having worked with Zim at Lockheed Martin for years and having seen Zim in action at church and at the Colonial, he is clearly the best choice. If Zim wins, Fort Worth and its residents win.
— Steve Hadley, Fort Worth

I would like to do as the Star-Telegram has done and wholeheartedly endorse my good friend Eric Fox, who is running for Fort Worth City Council to represent District 3.
I have known Eric for more than 20 years, and in that time he has always been forthright and honest with everyone.
Eric is a Fort Worth native and a product of the Fort Worth school district. Having been born and raised here, both of us have a keen interest in how the residents of this great city are governed.
 Eric is a hands-on, “get-things-done” individual who will work tirelessly for each of our neighborhoods. There are several important issues affecting us now: the Southwest Parkway project, escalating property taxes and the streamlining of city government to make it more transparent and cost-effective. All of these will be addressed head-on by Eric when elected.
Please join me in casting your vote for Eric Fox.
— Tres Morris, D.D.S., Fort Worth

Fort Worth District 7

Fort Worth is experiencing unemployment, real estate foreclosures and gas drilling issues as well as roads and streets in need of repair, although not to the degree of most other cities.
So it is important that we continue to embrace experienced council people who are logical, rational thinkers and are visionaries for our beautiful city.
In District 7, Carter Burdette has exhibited these qualities as evidenced in his foresight that Lake Worth has the potential to be an outstanding source of revenue as well as a recreational asset.
Burdette will continue to be an activist in combating erosion/silt issues in the vast commercial development and gas-drilling sites around the environmentally sensitive lake. Burdette understands these matters as neighborhood associations strive to elevate public awareness of protecting our city’s water and air quality while being proactive in watershed management.
Carter Burdette understands these needs and will continue to address them as a voice of District 7.
— Shelly J. Harper, Fort Worth

Fort Worth City Council

Please stop allowing the Editorial Board to take up precious space in the ever-dwindling paper to tell people how to vote. We get it: They want everything to stay the same.
The voices of the people are radically different. Letters to the editor (not including those from elected officials and business owners with an agenda) are all crying out for change, just like the thousands of people who attended the Tea Parties.
Residents want their tax dollars spent on things such as fixing crumbling infrastructure, bettering neighborhoods and public safety (including flooding and gas drilling regulations) instead of hotels, sporting goods stores and shrines to the city’s elite.
Taxpayers deserve better and, from the caliber of candidates, they can get it. With people like Clyde Picht, Glen Bucy Jr., Suzette Watkins and Gary Hogan running, Fort Worth could rise again, benefiting all.
— Greg Stone, Fort Worth

Arlington City Council

Mayor Bob Cluck has earned my vote for re-election.
In this challenging economy, he has pledged opposition to a property tax rate increase; he continues to support strong police and fire protection for our neighborhoods; and he works hard for reduced traffic congestion and cleaner air.
All the while, our basic city services such as water, sewer and trash collection are some of the best in North Texas.
We need more of the leadership that he and his council colleagues are providing. My vote has been earned by my mayor.
— Chris Gavras, Arlington

The reason for my many autodialed calls to voters in Arlington District 5 is because I am a former city councilmember and my caring for Arlington.
I felt it important that the facts about Lana Wolff should be revealed.
To me, Wolff has too much personal baggage and needs to spend more time with her family in crisis. The Bible says one of the qualifications for leadership in the church is that person must be able to manage their own household first. It should be no different for a leadership position in city government.
Please review all your District 5 council choices and get true answers before you vote. We need to consider a person’s integrity first. If you really want change, you should vote for Michael Driscoll or Terry Meza.
— Dick Malec, Arlington

Lana Wolff has demonstrated over and over why she must continue to be our representative on the Arlington City Council.
She is active in numerous organizations and neighborhood groups. The lines of communication are always open to her. She answers your emails, calls you back and attends any group meeting you want. Her job as a City Council member calls for seven days a week, morning-to-night. She loves what she does and, more importantly, she loves Arlington.
Please join me in voting for Mayor Pro Tem Lana Wolff for District 5 Arlington City Council.
— Jamie Wayland, Arlington

While reading the Star-Telegram Voters Guide, I was taken aback by the candidate bio for Arlington City Council Place 3 Robert Rivera.
Rivera’s background indicated that he was “co-chairman” of the Vote Yes! A Win for Arlington Committee that helped bring the Dallas Cowboys stadium to the city.
However, Rivera’s bio went on to say that he wants to “help lower the tax burden for residents.” I can only conclude that the incumbent councilman believes Arlington residents have no recollection of the tax burden of $325 million.
Additionally, the refinancing of $164 million in stadium bonds cost Arlington residents another $23 million to $28 million, bringing Arlington taxpayers’ investment to $353 million. Is that considered lowering a tax burden?
Please support Marvin Sutton for Arlington City Council Place 3 and better stewardship of our tax dollars.
— Marc House, Arlington

The Arlington Place 5 race has two dynamic individuals running. Terry Meza, highly qualified both academically and professionally, has run a clean and open campaign. Meza understands how urban finances and job creation operate.
In every debate, she has upheld the highest professional standards, a point her opponent did not manage.
Terry Meza has probably worn out a couple pair of shoes going door-to-door with her neighbors.
Honesty. Integrity. Passion. Terry Meza gets my support.
— A.C. Blair, Arlington

Mayors, councils and school boards

Fort Worth mayor

Mike Moncrief has long ago proved his loyalty and devotion to Texas and to the city of Fort Worth. One can research his political career and see that his tireless efforts and his personal contributions more than reflect this dedication to service. He has proved himself to be a brilliant businessman and has a vision of many improvements for the future of Fort Worth. This city has blossomed since he took office, and I hope to see him here for a long time. It would be so nice to read ALL of the facts and not just the bits and pieces of information that the Star-Telegram wants us to know — therefore we must do our homework.
— Phyllis Campos, Fort Worth

Mayor Mike Moncrief’s homeless-assistance initiative shows his sincere and heartfelt passion for our city and all our residents. I recently saw that homelessness in Fort Worth has been reduced by almost 10 percent in the short time of this important program. Moncrief’s leadership on this issue has uplifted community awareness and inspired action by many in the city for a group of neighbors who are truly least fortunate. I have watched the community rally behind this very worthy program to help house, care for and retrain the city’s homeless population. A great leader is measured on many levels, and Fort Worth is fortunate to have a mayor whose sincerity and compassion inspires others.
— Libby Lindstrom, Arlington

Fort Worth District 3

I’ve known Eric Fox since I moved to Fort Worth and worked for a state senator. After the 2003 legislative session, I spent the next few years working side by side with Eric as a consultant to Lockheed Martin. During this stretch of time, I came to know Eric as a trustworthy, hard-charging and hardworking individual who has the passion and desire to serve the public. It doesn’t take long to see that Eric has political aspirations, and because of his focus, drive and ability to be in touch with the important items confronting City Hall, I firmly believe he is the right candidate for Fort Worth City Council District 3.
— Michael Moore, Fort Worth

The proponents of Trinity Uptown would tear down the Jim Wright levees that have protected us since the 1949 flood. The project is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It is for economic development, not flood control. The Army Corps of Engineers has stated that any needed flood control modification could be done for only $10 million. According to the April 27 Voters Guide, every candidate for Fort Worth City Council District 3 except Eric Fox is either skeptical, critical or against the $500 million eminent-domain boondoggle. Fox says he supports the big-ticket project because it will bring economic development but offers not a word about flood control. Vote for Zim Zimmerman, but any one of them would do except big-spender Fox.
— Joy Douglass, Edgecliff Village

I watched for years as my friends and neighbors sat on the ground or stood in the hot sun waiting to catch a bus in front of Wedgwood 6th Grade School on South Drive. I made it my undertaking to have a bench installed at the bus stop. I thought my task would be easy, but after two years I couldn’t get any results. That’s until I met Eric Fox. Eric came to a candidate forum in my neighborhood. I told him about my goal, and he responded by saying, “Ma’am, that is now my goal, too.” To my surprise and joy, one week later The T was out at the stop installing a bench. Eric had called The T, made contact with the right person and followed up on my request. I later contacted Eric and told him that if this was an example of how he would work on the City Council, with a “git ’er done” attitude, then he is the man for the job! Vote for Eric Fox for Fort Worth City Council District 3.
— Kathleen S. Phillips, Fort Worth

Fort Worth District 6

It is with great enthusiasm that I encourage your readers to re-elect Jungus Jordan to City Council in Fort Worth’s District 6. During his tenure, he has worked successfully to show measurable improvements to both the district and the city. His results have earned him the endorsements of the Firefighters and Police Associations, Realtors Association and the Star-Telegram. I once read that the truest measure of a man comes from the opinions of his children. As Jordan’s son, I can assert that the attributes that give me a deep respect for my father are the same that make him an outstanding councilman. He is a hardworking, humble man who respects others, knows when to listen and when to be firm, and acts with integrity beyond reproach. On May 9, please cast a vote to re-elect Jungus Jordan for District 6!
— Shaun F. Jordan, Arlington

Fort Worth District 8

I have been following the career of Kathleen Hicks since she was council aide to Ralph McCloud. I admire how much she has been able to accomplish in such a short time. I also am encouraged to see someone so young and dedicated giving back to the community. Kathleen Hicks definitely has my support in the Fort Worth City Council District 8 race. — Hope Rodriguez, Fort Worth I watched the League of Women Voters Fort Worth City Council District 8 forum and, frankly, was appalled. Suzette Watkins is totally clueless. She claims District 8 does not have any transportation needs. She stated, “I see bus stops all over.” Watkins had no clue what the local-option bill in the Legislature is about. In fact, the moderator had to tell her. She thinks dogs are the biggest issue in District 8. Say what? For those reasons and many more, Kathleen Hicks has my vote. No one works harder for our community and tirelessly advocates for us.
— Shauna Schuford, Fort Worth

Arlington schools

Please support Luis Castillo for election to the Arlington school board on May 9. I have known Luis and his family for almost 15 years. We have worked on community and church projects together. Luis is a longtime advocate of children, public service and taxpayer rights. Luis served on the school district’s Diversity Workforce Enhancement Advisory Council, the Future Financials Committee and the Veda Knox Elementary Site-Based Decision-Making Committee. He is president of the HOPE Tutoring Center and is a volunteer adult-education instructor with Texas LIFT (Literacy Instruction for Texas). Luis has a Bachelor of Arts in government and politics, and a Master of Arts in public affairs from the University of Texas at Dallas. Luis has the knowledge and experience to hit the ground running. I urge you to support Luis Castillo’s candidacy for Arlington school board, District 1.
— John D. B. Winchell, Arlington

On March 31, the Dallas Morning News Voters Guide reported that the largest contribution Aaron Reich had received for his campaign was $1,000. Six days later, Reich filed a campaign finance report stating he had raised no money and spent no money by March 31. Apparently he forgot about having declared the $1,000 contribution and having signs all over town. The Arlington school board just went through a prolonged “who-got-money-how-much-and-when” investigation with a former superintendent. It was contentious and unfortunate and took resources away from the primary purpose of the district — student learning. I will not be voting for another distraction. Join me in voting for Cheryl Smith in Place 3 and for keeping the focus on education.
— Todd Hill, Arlington

Pantego council

Pantego would be fortunate to have Harriet Irby on the City Council. If you know Harriet, you are aware that she is well-informed on all major issues concerning local government. She is practical and passionate. If you don’t know Harriet, she will discuss the issues with you, explain all sides and describe the best solutions. She has decades of experience and numerous civic awards to her credit. Pantego would be gaining a powerhouse by electing Harriet Irby.

— Juana Byrd, Arlington

In Pantego, this year’s election is a tough one. It requires a choice between an admired six-year veteran on the council (Cal Kost) and an energetic and analytical young professional engineer, Don Surratt. The challenges facing our town require elected officials willing to explore new alternatives and approaches to managing our income while holding the line on property taxes. To deal head-on with the challenges of aging infrastructure and needs expressed by residents, elected officials are going to have to let go of some of the old spending habits and city staff priorities, and adhere to a solid set of resident priorities. Don Surratt has what it takes to contribute constructively to the work of the council. Surratt should be our choice for Place 5, and Mayor Pro Tem Jason Williams should be re-elected in Place 4 for the benefit of Pantego.
— Bob Griffin, Pantego

Last October, Jason Williams and his wife went with the Pantego City Council to the Texas Municipal League Convention in San Antonio. His base room rate was $239 for each of the three nights. Other members of the council went to another hotel, with a base rate of $89 per night. Williams stonewalled submitting his expense report for six months, despite repeated requests and despite other members having submitted theirs last November. Harriet Varnum Irby has championed this issue and her opponent’s flippant use of tax money and ignoring the rules of disclosure. Irby also has championed the quality of Pantego’s water supply, by relying upon a laboratory accredited to investigate drinking water. Her opponent has opposed such consistently. (See: “Drilling, water quality debate in Pantego,” April 11) Harriet Irby is the only moral choice in my opinion.
— Steven Blair, Arlington

Bedford council

I want to endorse Roger Fisher for Bedford City Council Place 1 and express how the voters in Bedford can benefit by electing him. I’ve had the experience, honor and pleasure of knowing Roger for many years. By the examples he has set in leadership and community service roles, Roger will bring a new dimension of professionalism, dedication and integrity to this position, while concentrating diligently on the needs of the Bedford community. Working with Roger during the last eight years in the mortgage and real estate industries, I have seen his passion for excellence, optimism and honesty in everything he commits to. These refreshing and distinctive attributes will be shared by everyone Roger will be working with in Bedford. Simply put, Roger cares about Bedford, and a vote for him will be a good choice for the community.
— Patti Felton, Plano

I grew up and lived in Bedford for more than 25 years. Though I’m no longer a resident, Bedford will always be a city whose future I care about. That is why I am offering this letter of support for Roger Fisher for Bedford City Council, Place 1. As a friend of the Fisher family, I had the opportunity to watch Roger grow up, get married and start a family. Always involved in politics in school, Roger developed a beyond-his-years penchant for bringing people together to solve problems. Now 28 years old, Roger is a man of outstanding character with the mix of energy, enthusiasm and leadership that Bedford needs. Roger truly feels — and has answered — the call to give back to the community in which he himself was raised, and in which he is raising his family. Vote for Roger Fisher on May 9!
— Melissa Sekin Meyer, Southlake

Richland Hills

Richland Hills needs to move forward, not backward. Dismantling our association with The T is a move backward. The community enjoys the benefits of being a part of the regional transportation system. The system is funded by sales tax and is mostly paid by others outside our community. As a small community within the Metroplex, we have some clout when it comes to grants due to our participation. To date, our community has received several millions in road-related projects. We stand at the front of the line. Why would we want to go to the back of the line? Our property taxes can’t support a city-funded system. Ed Lopez, Bill Agan and Jeff Ritter have a better understanding of what direction this community should take. We need individual thinkers who have a sound, collective vision for our community.
— Michael A. Logan, Richland Hills

Southlake mayor

The biggest asset John Terrell brings to the table is the working relationship he has with the school district and the school board. Many of you who have lived here a long time know that this was not always the case. Previous leaders on the school board and City Council did not get along, and there was constant controversy. These two entities have many crossover events where they need to work together. They share many of the facilities in joint use. John knows how important it is for the city and the school district to work together to benefit the residents of Southlake. He has shown that he can bring people together for the support of a common goal. Since John Terrell has been in office, issues between the city and the school administration have run very smoothly. Please vote for John Terrell.
— Sherry Berman, Southlake

Mayoral races and much more

 

A matter of record

Here’s what can be found in the 2006-2008 attendance records of the Southlake City Council:
Carolyn Morris missed one of 56 regular meetings. Vernon Stansell was absent 14 out of 58 meetings.
In special council meetings, Morris had one absence in 26 meetings, Stansell had 15 absences in 24 meetings.
Combining the regular and special meetings, Morris was absent two times in 82 meetings; Stansell was absent 29 times in 82 meetings.

Morris has the experience, knowledge, leadership and compassion for Southlake to be our City Council representative. She has demonstrated her commitment not only with her accomplishments but her near-perfect attendance record.

— Jerry Kight, Southlake

Moncrief for mayor

There seems to be a lot of negative press lately about our mayor, Michael J. Moncrief.
I just wanted to say that Moncrief seems always to have the best interest of our city at heart without prejudice or personal gain.

He is always generous, respectable and honorable and seems to serve his community out of love for our city. I pray we are only so blessed to have Moncrief re-elected for another term as the representative of the greatest city in the world — Fort Worth.

— Donovan Steen, Fort Worth

This election is vital for Fort Worth, and the re-election of Mayor Mike Moncrief will help assure the integrity of this great city.

This is a treasure among other cities as we remain vibrant, fresh and full of life.
Moncrief fully backs our police and firefighters and their policies to enhance our safety. He supports tax controls and “real” spending accountability and champions quality-of-life efforts throughout our neighborhoods.

I have worked with Mike on a number of projects and know, without hesitation, that he is a man of his word and true to his commitment to us all. Fort Worth is one of the most desirable and livable cities in this country, and Mike and Rosie Moncrief work tirelessly to make that a reality for generations to come.

Moncrief has truly earned our vote — Fort Worth will remain in good hands as a result!
— Dr. William M. Jordan, Fort Worth

Wilson in Trophy Club

I support Kathleen Wilson in her election to a second term on the Trophy Club Town Council.
During her first term, she has demonstrated her desire to represent the best interests of the residents by listening and carefully evaluating the facts. She is the quintessential researcher, and it is evident when she speaks. Her preparation and research on any topic is impressive. There is no doubt she exemplifies what residents desire in those who serve on the council.

Kathleen’s desire to serve is evidenced in her current and past involvement in the community. She immediately became involved in the community when she and her family moved here nine years ago.

Her dedication is unwavering, as she balances family responsibilities with commitments to Trophy Club. Her organizational skills, ability to ask the difficult questions, commitment and passion for public service, professionalism and respect for others will continue to serve Trophy Club.

Join us in voting for Kathleen Wilson on May 9.
— Elaine and George Roberson, Trophy Club

Richland Hills issues

The Richland Hills city election is about electing leaders who will promise to control spending to ensure the future of Richland Hills.

I implore every resident to put aside personal feelings, learn about the issues and then say no to The T continuing to have carte blanche with the city tax base; say no to wasteful spending on a second Community Center at Kate Baker Park; say no to Chesapeake Energy’s $200,000 gift until its business with our city is done; say no to TruGreen ChemLawn maintaining our city parks; and say yes to a future built on manageable property taxes, adequate emergency services, resolved drainage issues, improved economic development, maintenance of roads and curbs, and improved communication in our great city.

Richland Hills is an incredible place to live, but if we don’t get control of our spending, it won’t be here for our children.

 — Ralph E. Smith Jr., Richland Hills

Bedford elections

We will vote for Jim Story for mayor of Bedford in the May 9 election.
In his first term in office, he has proven to be fair and unbiased in his decision making. It is very obvious that he spends time researching and reading the facts for both sides before casting a vote. He has brought a sense of calm to the council and is respectful of residents when they speak at a meeting.

At a time when Bedford is regaining its standing among cities in the Metroplex, we need to make sure that our mayor has all residents’ best interests in mind as he makes decisions. Jim Story does and deserves your vote.

— Ralph and Deborah Chaney, Bedford

With no incumbent running, Place 1 of the Bedford City Council will be filled by a new face.
Roger Fisher must be that “new face.”
This young family man has served his community since he was a teenager. When Roger dedicates himself to a group or cause, he gives 110 percent of his time, energy and heart.

Roger envisions Bedford as becoming better and brighter, the “city of choice” rising to and meeting the challenges of an uncertain economy, while keeping taxes as low as possible. His idea of creating an “H-E-B: We’re all in” Committee consisting of a council member from each of the three cities as well as a Hurst-Euless-Bedford school trustee, is a great idea to bring together a coordinated effort to consider common issues, such as the new Texas 183/121 corridor development.

Vote Roger Fisher for Bedford City Council!
— Debra McDaniels, Bedford

Southlake mayor

I am wondering how John Terrell will represent the best interests of Southlake if he is elected mayor.
His first campaign report shows almost $12,000 in donations from people who don’t live in Southlake. What do these people want? Maybe they want to build apartments in Southlake.

Terrell has voted for town houses in the Carillon development. Why stop there? Maybe these donors want Terrell’s support for some airport project since he’s vice president of real estate for the D/FW Airport.

Either way, I’m convinced that John will not represent the best interests of Southlake because of the big money from outsiders he has accepted.

Most of Rick Stacy’s donors are Southlake residents. He has a proven track record of putting the best interests of Southlake first.

I’m voting for Rick on May 9. I hope my fellow Southlake residents will, too.
— Kim Clancy, Southlake

I support John Terrell for Southlake mayor. He is a man of integrity.
John actively participates in so many aspects of our city from the City Council, to Students and Parents Against Risk to Our Kids, to Sister Cities to sports and more.

Those who participated in the months of public meetings on the mineral-rights ordinance are familiar with his keen knowledge on that subject. We are all thankful for his input to the ordinance, and the protection it afforded us as residents and landholders.

I applaud the City Council for not negotiating a city contract during that deliberation, which might have given control of our city and residences to the gas drilling companies through grandfather clauses.

I want a mayor who will respect his residents, welcome their input, become thoroughly educated on the matter at hand, and make a well-thought out, sound decision. I’m voting for John Terrell for Southlake mayor!

— Suzanne Maisto, Southlake

Arlington schools

Luis Castillo, school board candidate for District 1, Arlington, is president of H.O.P.E. Tutoring Center and an active participant.

He attended the School Summit and listened very carefully to the Youth Panel that described what they thought would help to reduce the high percentage of the dropouts in our schools.

Our youth were clear in saying that Arlington needs to bring back vocational training opportunities. Castillo understands that new businesses study psychographics to determine potential customers as well as an available work force.

Many businesses employ our youth. With dropout rates as high as 50 percent in parts of Arlington, the work force needed is not available.

He also understands that high crime rates deter new business. By keeping our youth in school, gang crime rates will be significantly reduced. Luis Castillo will support our entire community regardless of our diversities.

— Kathleen B. Rokusek, Arlington

I have known Cheryl Smith for many years, and she is one of the hardest-working people I know. When Cheryl commits to accomplishing something, you can be confident it will be completed on time and it will be done right.

Cheryl and her husband chose to live in the Arlington school district to make sure their sons had access to a great education. It worked. All three are either in college or have graduated college.

Cheryl is running for school board to give back to the community and school district that has given her family so much. What dedication! Cheryl is by far the most qualified, committed and experienced candidate in this race and has earned my support. I hope you will join me in voting for Cheryl Smith for Place 3 on the Arlington school board.

— Sheila Beene, Arlington

GCISD board

Please join me in supporting Vince Rosen for the Grapevine-Colleyville school board.
Vince has been involved in our community for many years and places the utmost importance on our youth and schools. His commitment to the school board is a commitment to our youth and teachers to insure GCISD maintains its high standards.

— Rusty Greer, Colleyville

Voters are exercised all over

 

Reality, not rhetoric

As longtime Southlake residents, we feel the need to correct some misconceptions in Rick Stacy’s recent mailer.

John Terrell isn’t simply an “employee” vs. Stacy as a business owner. John is vice president of corporate development for D/FW Airport, a position requiring skillful negotiation and communication abilities.

No one forced Stacy to Grapevine, as evidenced by the number of furniture stores in Southlake that he directly competes against and whose revenues benefit Southlake, as opposed to Grapevine.

Our memory of the relationship between the Carroll school district and the city during Stacy’s tenure is one of little, if any, communication or cooperation. In fact, it was downright ugly at times.

New folks to Southlake might be fooled by the rhetoric, but those of us who were here remember and know that the past six years have been better for the city than the previous six. This council has worked well together from day one, and the city’s achievements are testament to that statement.

-- Mark and Dana Fidler, Southlake

 

We like Mike

While it’s tradition that mayors of Dallas continually fight the public over their local issues, I am proud that Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief has been a consensus builder.

From citywide town-hall meetings to citizen task forces, Moncrief has proved that a good leader is a good listener.

He is a problem solver, and your city’s economy and neighborhood quality of life have benefited from his friendly style of results-oriented leadership.

I have a lot of friends in Fort Worth, and I have seen a lot of changes in their neighborhoods. I like Mike, and he has my full support for his re-election.

-- Sonja Moore, Arlington

 

For those who don’t know, being mayor is not just being in that position.

It is the caring for, the knowledge of and the ability to adapt to all situations, no matter how unpleasant, stressful or difficult they may be.

Decisions that affect the city and all the factions that make it up are difficult at times, and not everyone agrees with the decisions, but that’s part of being the mayor. Mike Moncrief has learned to drive the train, and it always arrives at the right station.

Of all the disasters that have befallen our city, I hesitate to think of the outcome if it had not been for Moncrief.

Listen to your conscience, not hearsay. Be aware of the accomplishments of Mike Moncrief and vote for Mike, the mayor with “you” in mind.

-- John Grammer, Fort Worth

 

We want change

The past few elections, voters have sent Mike Moncrief to the mayor’s office. Moncrief recently said he was running “on his record.”

Here’s the record: Fort Worth faces a $10 billion budgetary shortfall. 

Instead of focusing on city streets and our horrible trash service, the city gave tax money to special-interest projects like the Mercado and the Trinity River “Vision.”

Moncrief accepted more than $69,000 of “special-interest” money, including from the oil and gas industry.

Moncrief is not a fiscal conservative. No surprise, as he’s a lifelong registered Democrat.

We need fiscal responsibility from a conservative with a proven record.

Clyde Picht spent eight years on the council voting against overspending and special-interest projects. He has the know-how to fix our budget without raising taxes.

 On May 9, I will be happy to cast my vote for Clyde Picht.

-- John Austin Basham, Fort Worth

 

I hear the word change with regularity.

Why not Fort Worth?

Wouldn’t it be refreshing for the voters to supplant those rich and influential few now controlling every move this city makes?

Perhaps then we could cap out that Trinity River fiasco. And we could then hold for the future that light rail to lighten the burden on taxpayers.

Most importantly, Moncrief’s sanctuary city would cease in favor of law and order. Can you imagine the cost of harboring illegal immigrants? How about the illegitimacy of such a policy?

Clyde Picht would put an end to these trends. Not only is he a 22-year veteran with three Purple Hearts, he is a seasoned and ethical candidate prepared to represent the interests of the voters. He has served this city well for eight years on the council.

I cast my vote for Clyde Picht.

-- Nathan C. Vail, Fort Worth

 

Jordan has the skills

Every day we hear about the growth of our city and the increasing transportation and congestion problems it’s going to cause us.

With the new Cowboys stadium, it’s more critical than ever that something be done to alleviate the pressure.

Rail systems like the Metro in Washington, D.C., provide residents with convenient, environmentally cleaner mobility for their daily commuters.

Our District 6 city councilman, Jungus Jordan, is the chairman for Rail North Texas. By working closely with community leaders across the state, Jungus has led the movement to shepherd a long-needed rail initiative.

Jungus is exactly the kind of forward-thinking, hardworking representative we need to get big things done for our district and Fort Worth. I’m proud to call him both my friend and my councilman, and I strongly encourage all District 6 residents to re-elect Jungus on May 9.

-- Tony Stutts, Fort Worth

 

Benbrook council

Citizens for a Better Benbrook, backed by Rick Whitehurst, wrote an abrasive and disdain-filled letter that appeared in our local Benbrook News opposing the re-election of Mayor Jerry Dittrich and Councilman Ron Sauma.

Since Dittrich and Sauma have been in office, improvements have continued! Businesses were reclaimed along Southwest Boulevard to Bryant Irvin Road that wrongfully paid taxes to Fort Worth, streets are now well maintained, sidewalks added, businesses relocated here and two major ones are coming, U.S. 377 is to be widened, property taxes were lowered for the last four years, and we have a police force and fire department second to none.

We “cronies” know whom to vote for!

-- Manny Gonzalez, Benbrook

 

My wife, Jamie, and I live in Euless, own a business in Hurst and consider all of H-E-B our hometown. We have known Jim Story and his family for several years, and we know how devoted he is to Bedford.

In talking with our customers, we have heard many positive comments about how Jim has worked very hard to make Bedford a better place for the residents and to make Bedford a business-friendly city.

To the voters in Bedford, please vote to re-elect Jim Story mayor of your great city!

-- Tom Harton, Euless

 

Arlington city elections

On April 18, state Sen. Wendy Davis held a town-hall meeting in Arlington.

Davis certainly has been working and was worthy of my vote. Her introductory presentation on her accomplishments and issues in Austin was attended by our City Council members. But they left by the time audience commentary had commenced.

Obviously, they felt no need to hear the concerns of the “little people.” The mayor of Kennedale remained, as did Arlington mayoral candidate Jerry Pikulinski, who earned my vote by remaining.

The council members need to at least have a little respect for the issues of the people they supposedly represent; otherwise it’s time for a clean sweep of the council and the mayor.

There is more to Arlington than just the Chamber of Commerce and Jerry Jones.

-- Tom D'Amura, Arlington

 

I’ve made it a practice for years not to put up political signs in my yard; however, I’m making an exception for Lana Wolff.

She has worked so hard for our neighborhood association. I was especially impressed at how she has persisted, along with other neighbors, to follow through on getting the O.S. Gray Park — which has been in limbo for years — finally closer to reality.

And she has not neglected other important city projects, as shown by other organizations throughout Arlington that are also supporting her.

Please join me in voting for Lana Wolff for Arlington City Council, Place 5.

-- Betty Hart, Arlington

 

I am writing in support of Terry Meza, Arlington City Council candidate for District 5.

I have known Terry for several years and worked with her on a number of projects in the community. She is intelligent and articulate, and she knows how to work with others to meaningfully accomplish goals.

She displays a broad knowledge of crucial issues facing Arlington at a time when our city is faced with making major decisions that will chart our future success. We need her kind of new leadership.

-- Nancy Swartz, Arlington

 

Kathryn Wilemon represents the type of leadership Arlington needs:

Leadership that is not afraid to do the hard things, such as work for a balanced budget that does not raise taxes to provide services and programs.

Leadership that continues to focus on the needs of the people, such as working with community groups to be certain streets are repaired, traffic congestion is kept to a minimum and what needs to be done to keep people safe.

Leadership that knows Arlington and its residents will best be served by being truthful, hardworking and knowledgeable about all areas of the city and who is willing to study and learn about what is happening in Arlington so she can make wise choices.

This is the type of leadership we need right now, and Kathryn Wilemon deserves re-election to City Council, District 4.

-- Sue DeShong, Arlington

 

Arlington schools

Please vote for Luis Castillo for Place 1 on the Arlington school board.

Luis is very aware of the issues facing Arlington and will work hard to meet them head on. He is a team player but will carefully study each issue before jumping on the bandwagon.

He is truly concerned about educational excellence. His vision for better schools, fiscal responsibility, accountability and transparency in school board activities will be a step in the right direction.

-- Ronald K. Carter, Arlington

 

Luis Castillo is the ideal person to fill the Place 1 position.

I know Castillo from work he does for the east Arlington area. He runs the HOPE Tutoring Center and participates in other community organizations.

He does a very good job. He teaches at the HOPE centers and provides needed information about different issues that matter to our community. For example, he helped with a Children’s Health Insurance Program application drive to help parents get healthcare for their kids.

His extensive knowledge of the Hispanic culture enhances his ability to be the great leader he is.

I am pleased to see that he is running for school board Place 1. I know our schools have a high population of minority children, and it’s time for someone to be able to connect with these students while also helping the rest of the kids.

This is the change we need to make our community the great melting pot that it has become. Diversity is what makes our community a great place to live.

With Castillo’s knowledge and his ganas (willingness) to help, I know he will bring better things to our community.

-- Maria Robles, Arlington 

 

I have worked with Gloria Peña professionally for four years and know of her dedication to education in her community.

Peña has a proven track record espousing stellar leadership and sound decision-making that is an asset to the Arlington school district. Three top accomplishments highlight her capability for leading as a school board trustee:

She met with Congress to influence policies that affect managing the district work force with a product that prescribes the future knowledge in our state and directly contributes to the success of our nation.

Her position on teacher pay and recruitment helped avoid the fiasco that several other school districts faced in the Metroplex.

Her gift for succession planning helps to retain qualified teachers while adding new experienced teachers needed to guide the future of the district.

It is my hope that the residents of Arlington recognize the gem that Peña’s service provides to the children of Arlington.

-- Adrienne Campbell Carter, Grand Prairie

 

Grapevine-Colleyville schools

The Grapevine-Colleyville school district needs open-minded leaders who understand the priorities of the community and are willing to fairly represent the residents of both Grapevine and Colleyville.

On May 9, I will be casting my vote for Becky St. John for Place 2 on the board of trustees.

Becky has a long list of volunteer and professional positions that qualify her to be an effective trustee. She has worked diligently in the public schools, for the cities of Grapevine and Roanoke, and in the community with Keep Grapevine Beautiful. These important experiences prove her versatility and commitment to public service.

As a parent of three children, Becky will strive to make our schools better for everyone. If elected, Becky will help “inspire, encourage, and empower students to achieve their full potential” as the vision of the GCISD clearly states.

Please join me in supporting Becky St. John on May 9.

-- Laurie Egeland, Grapevine

On Bob Ray, birds and balloting

Really? You don’t understand?

Bob Ray Sanders said he doesn’t understand “this country’s obsession with guns,” and that “this has long been a country with too many guns.”(See: “Why are Texans so afraid?,” April 26)
It was important to the Founding Fathers to prohibit the government from abrogating or even restricting the individual’s right to own or bear guns.
The right to self-protection isn’t merely protection against a single crazed neighbor or a mountain lion; the citizenry has a fundamental right to protect itself in the event of a government gone very wrong, such as an economic collapse resulting in widespread uncontrolled violence or, as has happened numerous times in the world’s history, the rise of overbearing totalitarian governments and controls.
People have differing fear thresholds. When our government said we were on the brink of economic collapse, some people became afraid.
Others see recent actions by certain government officials as attempts to destroy our free state and have become fearful.
Government officials who reach their fear threshold of the people to be armed can be revealing. Thomas Jefferson said the strongest reason for the people to be armed is as a last-resort protection against a tyrannical government.
An understanding of why there’s a higher demand for guns in today’s environment has a basis in the histories of government failures around the world and in an understanding of what it truly means for the people to secure a free state.
— Gary Hancock, Arlington

Freedom to respond

My first reaction to the Saturday Jeer in which a young man criticized Tom Hicks and the Texas Rangers for inviting former President George W. Bush to throw out the first ball on opening day was extreme anger over the placement of the jeer.
My second reaction was, “Thank goodness I have the freedom to respond to such nonsense.”
I have been a Texas Rangers fan for much longer than the young writer has been on this Earth, and in my opinion the classiest thing the Texas Rangers organization has done for as long as I can remember is to invite our former president to throw out the first ball and then to invite him to the broadcast booth to chat with Tom Hicks and Josh Lewin.
I have never been prouder to be an American, protected from terrorists for eight years under Bush’s leadership, and also to be a Texas Rangers fan who hardly ever misses a game on TV and attends when possible.
The Rangers will be just fine without fans like Kyle Amato!
— Peggy Syrus, Benbrook

Public servant No. 1

With the passing of Tarrant County District Attorney Tim Curry, Fort Worth has lost one of its premier icons of the justice system. (See: “Widely praised Tarrant County DA served for 36 years,” April 25) In his illustrious career as the longest-serving D.A. in the county and state, he was both revered and reviled at times, but in the long run he prevailed over his critics as he always had the interest of Cowtown and its residents to heart.
His longevity in service to his county can be attributed to his many supporters, ranging from ordinary folks, attorneys, judges and other professionals who helped re-elect him. Curry was the ultimate prosecutor west of the Mississippi River, second to none. He was in the international limelight with his most famous case, the Cullen Davis trial, the last case he personally prosecuted.
His tenure on earth was served with honesty and integrity and this five-star public servant will be remembered for the indelible mark he stamped upon our city.
Rest in peace.
— Edna Maskell, Fort Worth

Bird problem solved

The article about bird strikes at airports was enlightening. (See: “2,370 bird strikes reported at D/FW since ’90,” April 25) The lead picture of a flock of pigeons certainly added credence to the article.
Let’s address the issue. We can follow the “animal and bird rights people” and let the birds live by chasing them on to someone else’s property or destroy them. Someday, they will bring down a plane at D/FW, killing hundreds of people. Then we will act. We should act now, and here is my plan:
1. Have police officers with shotguns manned around the birds’ roosting sites.
2. Put the birds to flight and then fire away — large quantities of destroyed birds.
3. Have local prison inmates, dressed in disposable suits, gloves, hats and masks, package the destroyed birds in gunny sacks.
4. Take the sacks to landfills and bury the sacks.
5. Move on to the next roosting sight, Lincoln Square, and do the same, etc.
Problem handled; grackles, cowbirds, pigeons and starling populations reduced at a very low cost. Incidentally, I am a bird lover and I feed the birds in my yard with about 100 pounds of sunflower and safflower seed every year.
— Peter A. Hatton, Arlington

Forest Hill election

Our Forest Hill City Council is the finest we’ve had in many years. This team is doing such an outstanding job that great progress is being made in the city. A winning team such as this sitting council must remain intact. I wholeheartedly support Mayor James L. Gosey and Councilmen Dulani Masimini, Andrew Sanders and Mustafa Sami.
— Robert A. “Link” Linkenhoker, Forest Hill

Keep Moncrief at work

I, for one, am proud of the progress made in Fort Worth under the leadership of Mayor Mike Moncrief. Our city is continuously complimented for the quality of life here, and when you look at the opportunities here compared to other cities in Texas and the rest of the United States, we are very fortunate.
Moncrief is not afraid to speak his mind on sensitive matters, he is fair and equally concerned about all ethnicities and areas of our city. The dedication of Moncrief and his wife, Rosie, are beneficial to our city. It really bothers me when any of our community servants are criticized.
— Pam Minick, Fort Worth

Clean the air

It is time to clean the air at City Hall.
Change is always healthy, and now is the time. Our city has been faced with financial challenges and growth that bring many challenges.
Citizens across the USA are beginning to clean their houses. Political leaders don’t need to serve for decades. Fort Worth deserves some better choices.
I am supporting Clyde Picht for mayor for the following reasons:
nClyde will act as an effective leader.
nClyde will know when to say no and will gather troops for support. Remember that the late Chuck Silcox and Clyde were the only council members who were not afraid to say “no.” They listened to their voters.
nClyde will treat residents politely and in a courteous manner.
nClyde has the time for this job. He is retired and has the experience. He needs no learning curve.
Help clean the house!
— Peggy Terrell, Fort Worth

Independent voice

I’m supporting Zim Zimmerman for Fort Worth City Council, District 3.
A retired Lockheed executive, Zim has the time to serve.
As shown by the recently filed campaign financial reports, Zim has significant support coming primarily from within District 3 and Fort Worth.
Do we want a City Councilman representing us who’s been elected with a large amount of his financial support coming from political action committees in Austin and Washington, D.C., as Eric Fox has? I don’t think so.
Zim listens and will speak his mind. He’s not intimidated by anyone. He’ll be our independent voice. He’s the only candidate with the time and skills to do the job. Join me in voting for Zim for District 3.
— Marsha R. West, Fort Worth

Experienced conservative

We need Carter Burdette’s experienced, conservative voice on the Fort Worth City Council. These times call for prudence and keen attention to fiscal matters.
Burdette has embraced a positive and farsighted vision for the Lake Worth area. With his effective leadership, the plan is well under way. Simply stated, this area will become Fort Worth’s “Central Park” someday — the entire city will benefit from this recreational mecca.
Significantly, his consistently good communication with, and support of, area neighborhood organizations has been productive on many levels.
Gas drilling? Burdette understands that related environmental concerns are critically important. He advocates “balance of competing interests.”
Still, we absolutely cannot compromise our safety. Air and water quality and dangerous runoff pollution are among the most serious issues.
Burdette’s careful attention to the city’s forthcoming mineral-lease documents for the Lake Worth watershed — an important part of our drinking water supply — will be profoundly important. His experience should serve well here.
— Joe Waller, Fort Worth

Keep Cluck in office

Please vote to retain Dr. Robert Cluck as Arlington’s mayor. He has demonstrated the gravitas to sit at the table with the mayors of Dallas and Fort Worth, with Jerry Jones and Tom Hicks. Not by the power of his elected office, but by the strength of his character and determination to do what is right for our city in spite of many voices raised in opposition.
Catalyzed by the Arlington Chamber, he has brought the city into stronger partnerships with the business community, UTA, TCC, Work Advantage and the Arlington school district.
Keeping withdrawals from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation off the city council agenda until after this election is just one more example of his putting the good of the city above politics.
Looking at those interested in public office in Arlington, it is hard to find another Cluck among them. Stay healthy, Mr. Mayor, we need you. We appreciate you.
— Bill Lynch, Arlington

Irby in Pantego

I urge the residents of Pantego to vote for Harriet Irby in Place 4. She is knowledgeable about the issues facing Pantego in a much broader manner than the Star-Telegram Voters’ Guide would indicate. That guide only tells you that she loves animals, a good trait indeed, but Harriet offers us so much more.
A glance at the Voters’ Guide published by the Arlington League of Women’s Voters, which I point out does not make endorsements, nonetheless reveals the breadth and depth of her background and of her knowledge of the issues.
For readers living in Arlington, talk to your Pantego friends about voting for her. She is well-versed on topics affecting the relationship between Pantego and Arlington.
— Lorraine Levine, Arlington

Ring for school board

My good friend Paige Ring is running for Place 2 on the Eagle Mountain-Saginaw school board. She was left out of the Star-Telegram Voters’ Guide on April 27, even though the writer had her information and she had called to confirm receipt.
Paige is a fiscal conservative who will bring a diverse perspective to the board. Her business acumen (12 years with BNSF Railway, managing an annual budget of more than $85 million and negotiating more than $1 billion in contracts) combined with her community service (United Way Kid’s Way Impact Council, Camp Fire event chair and Eagle Mountain Elementary PTA Treasurer) makes her a perfect fit for the challenges facing the school district.
If you want a trustee who comes without an agenda, vote May 9 for Paige Ring, a proven professional.
— Cindy Hames, Fort Worth

From elections to Equal Pay Day and Bud Kennedy

Keep Rivera on council

Robert Rivera is a true public servant.
He is always available and always responsive to my concerns. He is well-informed and stays abreast of all the issues involved in my district.
We couldn’t have a finer, more capable person representing us, and we need to get out and vote for him so that we can continue to have the best City Council person possible for District 3 in Arlington.
— Louise Dunn, Arlington

Marrs is the right man

In response to Chris Utchell’s April 20 letter about Richland Hills City Councilman Larry Marrs, outside moderators keep order, are open-minded, impartial and lead the group to achieve its purpose. Utchell supports the very people who are none of these. Mayor David Ragan, Councilman Jeff Ritter and Marrs’ opponent Ed Lopez will spend more than $300,000 on a building at Kate Baker Park over improving streets, sidewalks and drainage. Making needed improvements will enhance the city.
Marrs will cut needless spending and use saved dollars for improvements you will see every day. He’ll get cheaper (but just as effective) public transportation. Public safety will improve with additional firefighters, offering better protection and reduced insurance! Marrs is honest. Instead of having your arm around Bill Clintonesque ideas of government, open your mind.
— Amy Dempsey, Plano

Signs of confusion

Imagine my surprise when I discovered that all of the candidates around Arlington with “bundled” signs have not endorsed each other. Apparently they just have the same person putting up their signs. I’m sure the sign guy is happy saving a buck or two on stakes but not so sure that the resulting confusion is good for the candidates or voters trying to make up their minds. It also begs the question of who actually asked permission to put signs up in the lots, was it the sign guy or did each candidate actually speak to the owners and ask for their support?
— David Johannessen, Arlington

Conflict of interest

I was astounded when I read the Star-Telegram’s recommendation of Eric Fox for Fort Worth City Council District 3. It saw no conflict of interest, yet his Web site has a list of matters from which Lockheed Martin’s Political Candidacy Review Committee has advised Fox he must recuse himself. This will deny District 3 taxpayers complete representation.
W.B. Zimmerman is retired, has proven leadership as a top Lockheed executive, has the support of a broad section of District 3 voters and no such limiting conflicts of interest.
— Larry E. Branham, Fort Worth

Hogan for District 3

Like many of my neighbors throughout District 3, I want a City Council member who will represent homeowners, residents and neighborhoods. I’ll be voting for Gary Hogan. Gary’s work on the city’s oil and gas task force proves that he places the interest of residents’ safety and property and neighborhood integrity above corporate interest. Gary is not owned by any corporation or any politician.
— Doreen M. Geiger, Fort Worth

Where’s Moncrief?

Are we to believe our present mayor is too busy to campaign? He globetrots first-class with his bodyguard. It is hard to believe Mike Moncrief is so hard at work that he hasn’t time to worry about the election.
I don’t believe this. His minions are very busy eyeing the upcoming election. There has been plenty of time to address the deplorable conditions of our streets, but he has concentrated his interests on downtown interests and not on all Fort Worth residents. Whose needs does this really serve? Is he available to John Q. Citizen without an appointment? At council meetings he appears arrogant and condescending.
Clyde Picht is an honest, hardworking, dedicated man of real character. Elect Picht mayor.
— Shirley Heller, Fort Worth

Richland Hills issues

Residents in Richland Hills will have a chance to make a stand for the future of our decaying city. We can either vote to hold on to the ideas that have caused us to fall far behind our neighboring communities in every way or we can take the bold steps to move forward.
 We are a community that has the smallest commercial tax base in Northeast Tarrant County. More and more, our budget shortfalls are heaped upon the backs of residents under the age of 65, and still our mayor and his hand-picked slate of candidates seek to waste tax dollars on a park building that will be empty much more often than not.
 I choose to take the step away from bad leadership, bad ideas and wasteful spending. I’ll cast my vote for James Blyn, Andy Baugh and Larry Marrs, along with a solid NO for Proposition 1. I urge those who use their head for something besides a hat rack to follow my lead.
— Gerald Page, Richland Hills

Keep Cluck mayor

I like Bob Cluck. I admire his level-headed, even-handed style of leadership that inspires confidence and has been very effective in guiding our city. As one who was associated with UT Arlington for many years, I appreciate his strong support of UTA. He has the vision to recognize, and to fully appreciate, the educational, cultural and economic benefits of having a great university in our city.
Let us keep Bob Cluck as our mayor.
— Wendell H. Nedderman, Arlington

Identity disguised

Last week I received a call with a caller ID number of 1-111-111-1111. Since I have seen the number on my caller ID log frequently over the past few days, I answered. I asked the caller to identify herself, and she said she was calling on behalf of Jungus Jordan to request support for him in the Fort Worth City Council elections.
I consider placing calls in such a manner that the caller’s identity or organization is disguised to be dishonest. While I suspect Jordan is not the only candidate to use this technique in telemarketing, it makes me not want to vote for him.
— Sarah Tutt, Fort Worth

Equal Pay Day

I understand that, for the first time in our country’s history, half of all workers are women. Despite the fact that there are about 71 million women in the workforce, wage discrimination still exists.
 Today’s Equal Pay Day symbolizes how far into the year a woman must work, on average, to earn as much as a man earned the previous year. Because women earn less, on average, than men, they must work four months longer for the same amount of pay. A company’s personnel records are usually kept secret, so this disparity can go unnoticed by workers for years.
 President Obama recently signed the Fair Pay Act, which is designed to help those who have been discriminated against obtain retribution. But more needs to be done to further encourage businesses to conduct internal pay evaluations to ensure women are being paid fairly. The Paycheck Fairness Act, under consideration by the U.S. Senate, provides additional tools to deter wage discrimination. Workers, employers and legislators need to know how important it is to end wage discrimination, now.
 — Barbara W. Prabhu, Arlington

Heard over the din

I’m glad I waited until all the loonies had aimed their poison darts at Bud Kennedy. I was going to thank him (after his recent tea party comments) for putting things in perspective but didn’t get around to writing. After reviewing some of the comments he received in response to his column (See: “Am I a Texas-hating, moronic scurvy dog?,” April 24), I had to make my voice heard over the din. I want Kennedy to know that Fort Worth has many, many thoughtful people who appreciate him and his column. He needs to keep writing for “us.”
Some folks wake up every day totally bent out of shape, and venting at newspaper columnists seems to make their day. I’d love to know what makes them tick in their peculiar way, but will have to be content just reading their words, and weeping.
— Linda V. Bartles, Fort Worth

Elections: Bedford, Grapevine, Fort Worth, Arlington

Story and Savage in Bedford

I’m fully supporting Jim Story and Roy Savage for Mayor and Place 2 candidate in the upcoming Bedford elections. I’ve had my differences with both of them, but they’ve always taken the time to look at the full issue and then do what is right for the city. I would encourage everyone to take a look at the record of these two gentlemen and then cast your vote for them, based on their records of trying to do the right thing for our city.
Vote for Jim Story and Roy Savage. Let’s keep Bedford moving.
— Hank Henning, Bedford

Rosen for GCISD board

My good friend Vince Rosen is running for Place 2 on the Grapevine-Colleyville school board. I have known Vince for several years, and there are many reasons why I believe that he is an outstanding candidate. Vince has lived in this community for more than a decade and has been involved with the school district for 10 years. He has two children who are enrolled in the district, and he has proven himself as an experienced leader and team builder. But most important to me, he is a good father, has a high degree of integrity and is genuine and honest. He and his wife, Debbie, are faithful members of our church, and Vince has been monumentally supportive of our youth ministry. Vince has an interest in the social well-being of our children in and out of our school district.
My prayer is that many will consider Vince for Place 2 on the GCISD school board.
— Drew Sherman, Colleyville

Picht for mayor

At last we have the golden opportunity to vote for a special man to be our new Fort Worth mayor. He has served eight years on the council so he knows the inside and the outside of City Hall. He speaks and lives the truth and is not controlled by other interests. His concerns are for all the people of the total city and not just the downtown crowd.
Clyde Picht has served his country well as a fighter pilot, later instructing pilots. He has three purple hearts. He has not been personally involved in the gas and oil activities that challenge our city. We will be so proud when he is elected mayor. Our city needs to be pushed up, vitalized and debt-free. Please vote for Clyde Picht and enjoy the clear change in Fort Worth.
— Eleanor S. Hutcheson, Fort Worth

Politics as usual?

People who attended a meeting with the District 3 candidates asked some questions, and the candidates gave answers that one comes to expect from politicians. They are going to do all these marvelous things, and they are not going to be swayed by this or that when they are in office.
Just more of the usual. This is the problem! We are all tired of politics as usual. We want to see real, substantive leadership that serves the people and not their own personal interests. When will they learn that we the people elect them to see that our needs are addressed first and foremost? If they benefit from having this priority, more power to them.
I am researching all the candidates. When I vote, I will make sure it is not for their gender, smile, suit, promises or party affiliation, or where they attended college. It will be for the quality experience, sincerity and character a candidate brings to the battle. I hope all Fort Worth voters will follow suit and help initiate real changes that matter to this great city.
— Sean C. Rafferty, U.S. Air Force (retired), Fort Worth

Pikulinski in Arlington

Arlington voters finally have a solid choice for mayor. Jerry Pikulinski’s qualification as a retired economist with degrees in management, economics and business will be a boon for the city. In addition to his schooling, he has years of domestic and international practical experience. For a more complete description of his accomplishments, check his Web site at www.jerryformayor.org
— Richard D. Grieser, Arlington

Re-elect Rivera

I am asking voters to keep Robert Rivera in office for another term.
Change is inevitable, but progress is always going to be optional. We need continued progress, and changing the guard is not the answer at this critical point in time. We need the strong leadership that Robert is providing on the Arlington City Council right now.
Rivera has come to the challenges. He has lowered crime by supporting our fine Police Department and built strong neighborhoods by working with the people who live in south Arlington. Robert is always available even in the tight spots.
Arlington will be the best city in America with Robert Rivera standing with our great residents all the way.
— David Berg, Arlington

Castillo on board

I offer strong support for Luis Castillo for Place 1 on the Arlington school board. Luis is very passionate about improving the education system in our district. He believes fiscal responsibility, accountability, transparency and good leadership will transform our schools into better-performing students. Luis will definitely bring change to the school board for all children in our city. He has my full support.
— Paul Stampp, Arlington

Level playing field

Your April 19 article about Sunday sales and modernizing Texas’s outdated liquor laws (See: “Sunday Liquor Sales: Bills would lift ban”) left out at least one update that is critical to streamlining the Texas liquor market — removing the discriminatory law allowing a small number of package store owners to dominate while holding back the vast majority of owners like me.
SB 1216 would turn back a law that allows an unlimited number of package store licenses for certain store owners that were in business before 1949, but it limits everyone else to a maximum of five licenses. Repealing this anti-competitive cap on package store ownership would allow all licensed package store retailers, regardless of when they started their business, to operate under the same set of laws.
It’s time to do away with this ridiculous impediment to small-business growth. Any Texan, regardless of tenure in the package store industry, should be able to have the same opportunities to grow his or her business.
— David Hernandez, owner, Holiday Wine & Liquor,
McAllen, Edinburg, Weslaco, Mission and Harlingen

Unnecessary panic

Thank you, Star-Telegram, for placing a bulls-eye target on President Barack Obama, his administration and supporters of a much needed “reformed America.” The front-page weapons article caught me offguard. (See: “Brisk sales of ammo may lead to shortage,” April 20)
The second statement of the opening paragraph was appalling, and I gasped as I read: “They say gun owners are buying more than normal because of widespread concerns about President Barack Obama’s administration.”
Though this undoubtedly is true, for all the varied reasons sighted, I was appalled to see it at the top of the front page.
Panic in America is just what we don’t need at this crucial time in our country’s history. On the 10th anniversary of the Columbine massacre, I would have wished for more sensitivity on the part of the paper.
— D. Sykes West, Benbrook

Readers write about ultrasound, grades and elections

The ultrasound debate

A proposed Texas House bill to require a doctor to do an ultrasound before performing an abortion is ludicrous and clearly an attempt by anti-choice supporters to use legislation not only to demoralize women who have chosen to have an abortion but to also erect further roadblocks to a woman’s right to choose.
Planned Parenthood officials stated that they already perform an ultrasound to determine the stage of a pregnancy, and that a woman may view it if she chooses. 
State government has no right to treat women in such a patronizing and discriminatory manner. The bottom line is that if this bill passes, it will be blatant discrimination against women, not a means of giving them full disclosure of medical information.
— Marnie Collea, Trophy Club

Wouldn’t most reasonable people agree that the decision to have a baby or to abort that baby is huge? Why then wouldn’t we want the mother and father to have all the information possible?
If those that are pro-choice really wanted mothers to make an informed “choice,” they’d want the parents to have all the information possible.
An overwhelming percentage of pregnant mothers considering abortion opt to have the baby after seeing an ultrasound. Why shouldn’t that be celebrated and encouraged? Because Planned Parenthood isn’t interested in the welfare of young mothers. It’s interested in the bottom line, which is driven by the number of abortions it performs. When the “choice” is to have the baby, that’s just not acceptable to the pro-choice side.
— Brian Smith, Trophy Club

Minimum grades

I was excited when I saw the editorial headline “Truth in reporting.” I thought it concerned the mass media and hoped that future news articles would not lean so far to the left or right and go straight up the middle.
Dream on. It was about school students’ grades, which, incidentally, should have been reported accurately in the first place. Maybe next time.
— Kathy O’Neil, Fort Worth

One can understand why administrators want to curb dropouts; it’s money out of the collective school pockets, and not, I fear, a desire to see that students are in school and learning. It’s a sad state of affairs that administrators are put in the positions of grabbing for funds, but why is that necessary? Any property owner knows that the biggest chunk of their taxes goes to public schools.
It’s an old-fashioned opinion, but the concentration should be placed on the early grades. It borders on criminal that a child continues to be passed from one grade to another without being able to read. If they can’t read, they can’t learn any subject on any grade level.
Teachers can attempt to hold a student back, but a parent can disagree, and the student is passed to the next grade. This is not a benefit to the child.
It’s not acceptable to point out that non-English speaking students are a liability to their classmates who do speak English.
Until the educational system can get its arms around this situation, the learning process will continue to be sluggish and test scores dismal, resulting in failing students and failing schools.
— Jody Thompson, Fort Worth

Picht for FW mayor

If you know Clyde Picht, you may be aware of how hard he worked on the City Council to serve his constituents. His pursuits are always honorable. He says what he will do, and then he does it. His words can be counted on because he wouldn’t say them otherwise.
Clyde is simply made that way — a hard worker and a thoroughly honorable individual. I have known Clyde and his wife for many years. I praise all he has done in every capacity as the true, intelligent, caring person he is.
Please vote for the man you can trust to do the best job of providing intelligent leadership for all the residents of our city. Vote for Clyde Picht for mayor of Fort Worth.
— Joyce P. Elwood, Fort Worth

Sutton in Arlington

I have lived in District 3 for several years and recently received a mailer from Robert Rivera that said crime is low in this district.
I don’t know where Rivera is getting his information, but it’s not from the residents of District 3. My neighbors have been the victims of burglaries and other property crimes on too many occasions. Police response time is slow, and sometimes reports aren’t written.
My neighborhood has received little help from Rivera on this public safety issue.
My support is with Marvin Sutton. Public safety is his priority. When Sutton is elected, we will get better service from him and the Arlington Police Department.
— J. Shelton Holmes, Arlington

Cluck for Arlington

Please join me in voting to re-elect Dr. Robert Cluck as mayor of Arlington.
Bob Cluck has been an outstanding mayor representing our city numerous times in Washington and Austin. He is prominent among mayors in the Metroplex, state and nation, thus increasing his effectiveness on issues beneficial to our city.
His leadership in protecting the integrity and safety of our neighborhoods yet cultivating a climate that attracts and expands the business community is outstanding. Businesses need viable residents as customers, and the city needs the tax revenue from the commercial community. We both need each other.
Mayor Cluck worked hard to increase the number of police officers in our city. I witnessed a work session where he stood hard and firm for more officers. A safe city is paramount for our future success. Let’s re-elect Mayor Bob Cluck.
— Bailey Ruff, Arlington

Say goodbye to the gang

Mayor Robert Cluck and Council members Katherine Wilemon, Lana Wolff and Robert Rivera were advised about Steiner & Associates and Glorypark. They did not care about Steiner defaulting on loans and leaving taxpayers with the bill.
The records indicate large donations to the Arlington gang from the Ohio developer during their last campaigns, which explains why the gang had no conscience about asking a judge to grant $130 million in emergency bonds for Glorypark.
Cluck, Wilemon, Wolff and Rivera knew long before the project failed that people were not being paid, yet they still fought to give him our tax dollars.
The project needs to be investigated, including the bond money and the millions that the Arlington taxpayers have already paid.
A thought to remember when you vote May 9: It appears the only people to profit from Glorypark belong to the elected gang from Arlington.
— Deborah R. Gagliardi, Arlington

Tea party after-words, plus those elections

Tea party after-words

I could not make the tea party rallies because I had to work.
Like so many people, I too am not happy with all the spending and taxing, especially when my hard-earned money goes overseas.
I’ll be willing to bet we’re still owed money from World War I. Why can’t we call in those debts? What country in this world would help us? None!
Wake up, America — get on the train growing from the tea parties, or end up with nothing. As a fellow Texan, I hereby give my governor permission to start the secession proceedings!
— Jerry Rogers, Boyd

Upon reading that Gov. Rick “Goodhair” Perry was coming out for the possibility of secession, I was so proud of him and praised him for his political insight.
I thought he was agreeing to secede from the Texas governor’s race and leave it to Kay Bailey (Hutchison) and Kinky (Friedman).
Alas, I discovered upon further investigation that he was saying Texas might secede from the United States, which to me is the most embarrassing and stupid pronouncement ever made by Perry or any other Texas governor.
And that’s saying tons!
— Dave Leaverton, Granbury

Was Rick Perry wearing the famous U.S. flag lapel pin when he spoke of secession?
I think Tom Delay was when he defended Perry’s action on CNBC.
— Fred Darwin, Arlington

I hope the rest of the United States knows that Rick Perry does not speak for all Texans with his outrageous comment after the tea party.
Is he trying to imitate Glenn Beck? Trying to create a mob situation? All that indignation — where was that passion when our boys were dying for a war that George W. Bush instigated for no reason?
The Republican Party seems to be going downhill fast.
— Sunni Ellis, Keene

Bud Kennedy’s April 17 “tempest in a teapot” column missed the point — which is true of many liberals’ reaction when it comes to our liberties under the Constitution.
Gov. Rick Perry was obviously speaking to the spirit of the law, that law being the liberty of the individual; that it resonated with so many people is probably what caused Kennedy to go running to a history teacher.
Perhaps Kennedy should do a little history reading on his own. Then he can write an informed column on what happens to individual liberty when a government overreaches.
— John Orr, Ponder

Nature outreach

The Great Plains Restoration Council, headquartered in Fort Worth with operations here and in South Dakota, for years has been fighting to save endangered species, including plants and wildlife at the Fort Worth Prairie Park.
Another species also requires our attention: our youth.
GPRC’s Plains Youth InterACTION program is committed to working with young people labeled “at risk” by providing a safe place that offers guidance, nurturing and mentorship.
We reconnect our youth with the outdoors, enhancing their understanding of the connection between themselves, their community and their ecological identity. They simultaneously learn and practice, through their hard work, respect for nature, others and most important themselves.
Each year, GPRC brings together inner-city kids of Fort Worth with Native American youngsters from a South Dakota reservation. This year’s five-day Youth Summit will be in July at South Dakota’s Lakota Reservation. We hope to take 40 youths to help with restoration work on GPRC property in the Badlands, become more familiar with Native American culture and to get in touch with their inner selves.
But we need help. It costs $625 to sponsor a child in this program. Help save a youth as they help save the Earth.
— Lorenzo Wilborn Jr., GPRC Youth Director, Fort Worth

Picht for mayor

I’m sick and tired of attending neighborhood association meetings to hear my council member asking everyone in attendance to raise their hands if they were born and raised in Fort Worth. Are transplants somehow unworthy of his representation? Leave those questions to census takers.
There are more important things to be addressed than that. How about raise your hands if you know that the city budget looks “Grim. Ugly. Depressing” (Star-Telegram, March 28), and they don’t know how to fix it. The 2010 budget may be $58 million in the red, and there’s still money unaccounted for from past budgets.
We need change. We must elect people whom we can trust that every penny we pay in tax will be present and accounted for. On May 9, I will vote for Clyde Picht for mayor of Fort Worth. We need Clyde back at City Hall!
— Ana Sousa, Fort Worth

Zimmerman in District 3

I proudly support my longtime friend Zim Zimmerman for District 3 in southwest Fort Worth.
Zim is a “solid citizen” with years of volunteer leadership to local charities, the Citizens Crime Commission and as Chuck Silcox’s appointee to the Residential Board of Adjustment.
As a retired Lockheed executive, Zim has the time to attend council meetings and workshops and to personally attend neighborhood meetings and community events as the residents of District 3 have come to expect.
Most other candidates are still trying to explain how they will juggle their service with their full-time employment.
Zim has no political ambitions beyond serving the people of District 3.
Zim will provide a strong, experienced and independent voice. The best decisions come from discussion of alternatives and diverse viewpoints. If all council members think the same way, we wouldn’t need nine of them.
— Robert G. “Bob” West, Fort Worth

Sutton in Arlington

I support Marvin Sutton for Arlington City Council District 3. Sutton will work to ensure that real jobs come to this city. I am frustrated with current council members who say they are bringing jobs to Arlington. Their retail/service industry jobs pay low wages that will not allow people to afford to live in Arlington.
Incumbent Robert Rivera was the treasurer for the campaign that brought us the Cowboys stadium, and he supported the now-defunct Glorypark project. Arlington taxpayers have been left to pay millions on these private endeavors. It may be too late to keep the stadium out, but Sutton will ensure that Arlington taxpayers aren’t left paying more of the outrageous costs associated with these projects or any new ones in the future.
— L.L. Baston, Arlington

Jordan in District 6

District 6 is fortunate to have a councilman who has dedicated himself to improving the quality of life for all.
Jungus Jordan has taken the initiative and worked diligently with officials from the Crowley school district and our own parks department to make the Southwest Community Park and Natatorium a reality.
This very creative joint project with the Crowley school district is in the concept design phase and is moving forward using land near North Crowley High School that is owned by both the parks department and CISD. The concept includes a 50-meter indoor pool, an outdoor leisure pool and exercise facilities. It will be a great facility for people in far south Fort Worth.
Jordan has shown us that hard work, perseverance and the ability to work with a team can produce great results. Please vote to re-elect Jungus Jordan.
— Glen Estes, Fort Worth

On resale shops, elections, too

 

Resale shops

I am always happy to see an article in the Star-Telegram about the resale business. (See: “Scrutiny is sought for resale stores,” April 14)
However, it is a disservice to the many nonprofit organizations in Tarrant County that operate resale shops to be included with profit-making resale stores.
Resale shops run by nonprofit organizations don’t buy merchandise. The success of our businesses depends on the generous residents of our communities who donate their new and gently used goods.
There are many nonprofits working hard to run resale shops from which the proceeds support programs that help the less fortunate in our communities. All proceeds from the YWCA Resale Shop, for example, go to provide child development and residential services for homeless and low-income women and children.
Since all of our merchandise is donated to the shop and sold, not traded, we do not fall under the category of shops that must abide by the city ordinances cited in the article. It’s important for our customers and your readers that you delineate between those shops run by nonprofits and those whose owners buy, sell and trade used merchandise.
— Judi V. Bishop, executive director, YWCA of Fort Worth & Tarrant County

Lack of definition and the use of only one example made the otherwise informative article about resale stores and stolen goods totally misleading.
The article had to have been about for-profit resellers which, in my telephone directory, constitute only about one-half of these outlets. Consignment stores, which pay only after the final purchase, were also implied but not defined.
Charitable resellers, whose many outlets comprise the bulk of this business, should have been specifically excluded. The Salvation Army, for example, expressly forbids the purchase of any goods for resale.
— Jim Atkinson, Fort Worth

Jordan in District 6

Those of us who live in District 6 are extremely fortunate to be represented by Jungus Jordan. He cares about all of us working together to make our district safe, clean and attractive and a great place to live, raise a family and retire.
Jordan is always available to listen to our concerns and act upon them. He attends our neighborhood association meetings to keep us aware and informed about important happenings in Fort Worth. Please join me in voting to re-elect Jordan.
— Mary Fagras, Fort Worth

Picht for mayor

Our city needs a leader who will work from the bottom up, fix the crumbling streets, work to make Fort Worth a safer city to live in, balance the budget and spend the resources wisely.
When there is a strong foundation, then the growth and development can come to make our city an even better place to live. The needs of all the taxpaying citizens should be considered, not just the wants of special-interest groups.
Clyde Picht is a man of the people; his focus is to keep things in balance.
Clyde is an honest, hardworking man whose desire is a better city for all of us. We have an opportunity to let our voices be heard and to elect a man who will be champion for honesty and integrity for this city we are all proud to call home.
— Roie Ellen Lemon, Fort Worth

Zimmerman in District 3

It appears the downtown elite, the politicians and the lobbyists have chosen Eric Fox, one of their own, to be the councilman for Fort Worth District 3. I beg to disagree. For 17 years, District 3 was represented by Chuck Silcox, a strong, independent and conservative voice for our district. Can Fox be the same? I think not.
I’m supporting Zim Zimmerman for the council. Zim has leadership experience gained through 35 years at Lockheed, culminating as vice president of product support for the F-111 and F-16 programs. He has been active in the community as president of his neighborhood association, as Chuck’s appointee to the residential board of adjustments and as an elder in his church.
Zim is not in anyone’s pocket. He has no obligations to anyone other than the folks of District 3. Join me in voting for Zim Zimmerman.
— Gene Miers, Fort Worth

Rivera in Arlington

My wife and I again support Robert Rivera for re-election to the Arlington City Council.
Robert is very much in touch with his district and city issues. He is very involved with neighborhood crime watch programs, code enforcement, police and fire departments and town hall meetings.
As the District 3 representative, he is hard working and very much hands-on, and is always available to answer questions and solve problems. A vote for Robert Rivera is not only a vote of confidence but a vote for Arlington’s future.
— Will and Diane Walter, Arlington

Castillo for Arlington schools

If education is the key to our children’s future, then why are they locked in a broken system?
Luis Castillo, candidate for Place 1 on the Arlington school board, has the key to help unlock the system that is trapping our students’ success.
— Silk Littlejohn, Arlington

I would like to say a few words about Arlington school board candidate Luis C. Castillo.
Since Arlington is changing into a city of diversity, it would be a benefit for the schools to have someone representing people who can fully understand their needs.
Castillo is such a man. I fully support his election to Place 1 on the Arlington school board.
— Corrine Nugent-Hayes, Arlington

I live in Fort Worth, know Luis Castillo and know what he wants for our children and what he is doing for the community as a whole.
I’ve met the incumbent. She says she doesn’t see any problems in the Arlington school district.
That being the case, you need a change. I would vote for Castillo, so I am calling on Arlington residents whom I know to do just that.
— Lee Saldivar, Fort Worth

Change your mind

Though Ruth Orren and I rarely agreed, I was sorry to read in the April 16 Star-Telegram that her letter would be her last. I’m hoping she will abide by the adage about women changing their minds and change hers.
Unfortunately, I have to agree with her that the Star-Telegram is not the paper of old, but what newspaper is today? It is indeed a sad commentary about the condition of today’s newspapers.
— W.B. Slaughter, Fort Worth

Candidate supporters speak up

 

White for Trophy Club

Connie White has been a director of our municipal utility districts (MUDs) for 26 years. Our MUD tax rates are one-third of what I paid 25 years ago. City taxes have gone up dramatically. The city finds itself over budget by $500,000 in 2009. Our mayor is correct when he says, “This is not a one-issue race.” It is about fiscal responsibility and allowing MUDs 1 and 2 to consolidate, as the hired consultant by the city recommended. I am tired of our city embarrassing the residents of Trophy Club.
Connie will bring change. Vote No on Proposition 2 — vote yes for the MUDs’ consolidation. If the city is allowed to take over MUD 2, it requires a fire district (another layer of government) that will be funded by increased water rates.
Connie has been an excellent steward of our tax dollars. Our city needs Connie!
— Bruce and Lisa Morey, Trophy Club

Southlake mayor and council

The residents of Southlake will have the opportunity to elect a new mayor and two City Council members on May 9. The current members of our city government have not represented the electorate in a responsible manner, as exhibited by the approval of non-conforming developments that do not fit the city’s master plan. The other item of great importance was their lack of foresight in not obtaining gas leases for city property.
Southlake’s window of opportunity has closed for a large amount of revenue that it should have received. It is true the gas will not go away, but what are the prospects of energy companies again paying high leasing bonuses?
We are fortunate to have a new slate of candidates running for Southlake City Council and mayor. A vote for Rick Stacy, Marke Smith and Carolyn Morris is a vote for a better Southlake.
— Jere Francis, Southlake

Rivera in Arlington

In these times, it is important to have a city councilman who actually works for his residents. That person is Robert Rivera.
He has been the hardest-working and most-responsive councilman our district has known in decades. He has brought new business to the area, improved roads and code enforcement and has worked to adopt a teen curfew.
Use this opportunity to re-elect Robert Rivera.
— R.G. Horstman, Arlington

I want to encourage everyone in District 3 to vote for Robert Rivera. He has proven his sincere efforts to make Arlington a city that all of us can be proud of. The crime rate in our neighborhoods is down, and people are taking pride in their homes and in their communities as a direct result of his efforts and his support. He responds personally and promptly to the needs of his constituents, and he is a hard worker who has earned our respect and support.
— Kay Savant, Arlington

I urge everyone in Arlington City Council District 3 to vote for Robert Rivera. He has improved southeast Arlington and deserves our support.
His opponent questions the foreclosure and job-loss rate. Foreclosures are tragic, but a City Council member can only encourage development to help. The Highlands development near the airport and the Cowboys stadium that Robert spearheaded have absolutely helped Arlington’s economy and added much-needed jobs.
Robert believes in keeping property taxes low. His opponent has suggested increasing the property tax rate. This should be unheard of in our tough economy.
Robert has been a public servant for years. He helped keep the Rangers in Arlington and was instrumental in bringing the Cowboys here. He loves Arlington and wants it to be a great example of a large vibrant city. Vote to keep Robert Rivera working for us on the City Council.
— Raul H. Gonzalez, Arlington

Robert Rivera is best for the selection for City Council. As a resident of southeast Arlington, I believe Robert will continue to bring integrity and leadership to the city. As a community advocate, I have attended town-hall meetings where Robert has brought community leaders together to listen and solve problems. Lastly, as a political science professor, I believe Robert will continue to be the visionary for common sense public policies for the residents of Arlington. Join me in sending Robert Rivera back to the Arlington City Council.
— Geoffrey R. Mitchell, Arlington

Weatherford College board

I would like to add my name to the list of people who will proudly vote for Lin Bearden to serve once again on the Weatherford College board. That’s definitely one place that doesn’t need change. We must keep him as leader of the Board of Trustees. Bearden is a man of utmost integrity. He is creative yet pragmatic in his approach to solving the financial and space issues facing the college. His own children attend Weatherford College. As president of First National Bank, he is imminently qualified to address the financial aspects of the college.
Bearden has devoted countless hours helping make Weatherford College the sound, respected institution it is today. He knows the role of a trustee and understands the needs of our community college. I urge you to join me in returning Bearden to the board. The students of Weatherford College need his expertise and leadership.
— Carolyn Hull Estes, Weatherford

Fort Worth mayor

Why is it that the people who work the hardest and care the most about what is best for Fort Worth are the least respected? If the residents only knew Clyde Picht for who he really is, instead of listening to his enemies, then there would be absolutely no choice in who would be our mayor. Elect him and you will see our city resurrect itself from the plunge into which we are going.
— Jeanette Berkley, Fort Worth

Open house?

The Cowboys’ new stadium is nearing completion. Will there be an open house so the Arlington residents who can’t afford a ticket can see what their considerable tax dollars have contributed to?
— Tom Edmonds, Arlington

Meza in District 5

Arlington is a large city with large problems. We need and deserve smart and qualified representatives making well-informed decisions on our City Council.

Terry Meza has more than 30 years of experience as a volunteer with the Arlington Police Advisory Committee, as a chair with the Bond Committee and the Arlington Night Shelter. She has worked on economic development, expanding the workforce, preserving historic sites and revitalizing neighborhoods.

As a licensed lawyer, she understands complicated issues. She is honest, bright and a hard worker focused on improving our city. A vote for Terry is a vote for the competence we need and deserve on our City Council.

— Juana Byrd, Arlington

Are you prepared?

OK, Six Flags, now you can sell beer.

Are you prepared to bear the responsibility that goes with alcohol? You know — the drunks, the fights, drunken drivers leaving your beer garden?

You want the profit; the state wants the taxes. Good joke. All that will be used to pay extra police, police cars, ambulances, court costs, insurance, etc.
It would be good to keep children away from there.

The Holy Bible says woe to alcohol in Habakkuk 2:15. The Bible says alcohol produces shame, violence, vomiting, shed blood and woe.

As many as 25,000 — or more — deaths in the United States can be traced to alcohol each year. Do the alcohol producers and suppliers bear any responsibility?

— George Crittenden, Fort Worth

Rivera is best for Arlington

I support the re-election of Robert Rivera to the Arlington City Council to represent District 3. Rivera is one of the most hands-on, hardworking council members whom I have ever dealt with. He personally responds to concerns and seems to make a sincere effort in resolving the issue, and he’s present at every one of our neighborhood crime-watch meetings.

 I know he’s a problem solver and cares about the community because he helped to resolve an issue that I brought to his attention. I didn’t think anything would be done but needed to voice my complaint. Rivera not only acknowledged my complaint, but he resolved the issue in an efficient and professional manner.

— Theia Brewer, Arlington

* * * * *

 My husband and I relocated to Texas from California in search of a simpler life somewhere in the country. We ended up in Arlington. City Councilman Robert Rivera’s ability to hold a City Council seat in such a large community while managing to stay connected with its residents is entirely refreshing. In so many cases, it seems to be the status quo to take things for granted and do the bare minimum. It’s obvious to me by his actions, both toward my family and the entire community, that Rivera walks the way he talks. He truly does care about the people he serves, and it shows. He is not just doing his job, he’s living his life in service to others. Big city or small, that’s something that’s going right in the world today.

— Dianne Stauber, Arlington

* * * * *

I support Councilman Robert Rivera’s re-election as District 3 councilman. I have lived in District 3 for almost eight years and have served on the board of directors of my homeowners association for more than three years (Lynn Creek Village).
 
Throughout this time, I have witnessed Rivera lend his ear to our neighborhood’s specific concerns and needs regarding crime in our area, neighborhood improvements and various other issues. Rivera not only listened, as most politicians will do especially around election time, but he took swift action toward resolving the issues that were brought before him.
 
Our neighborhood has called on him many times to resolve issues and show up at neighborhood events. He has always answered our calls willingly. Rivera truly cares about District 3 and Arlington, and he has my full support for re-election.

— Quincy Hall, Arlington

Arlington parking issues

I cannot believe that “elected officials” or Councilman Mel LeBlanc would even think about letting people park cars in their driveways and charge the people for parking.

Is the city going to pay overtime to code enforcement to stop people from parking in the yards? Go to the Lower Greenville area in Dallas and talk to the people about the problems with parking.

Who is going to clean up the mess left behind from all the people walking to their cars: water bottles, beer cans and paper trash?

I guess the homeowner can charge $30 a car, park six cars on his lawn and sell bottled water and pay the city the fine and still come out with money in his pocket at the end of the day.

— Randy Geisel, Arlington

Wolff in Arlington

If I could, I would put yard signs up next to those existing signs for Lana Wolff from Arlington firefighters and Arlington police.

“Neighbors support Lana Wolff, too” would look good in green with white letters.

Wolff is very involved in our neighborhood association, and she is busy taking care of all our community issues. I recommend that you vote for her to continue serving the community on the Arlington council.

— Nita McFarlin, Arlington

Sutton in Arlington

I support Marvin Sutton for the Arlington City Council, District 3. Marvin is a leader who stands with average Americans. As a council member, he would not be intimidated by big business interests over the economic and moral interests of our neighbors.

He has played a major role in our neighborhood association in the fight against crime, helping to improve our safety while we are in our homes.

He supports a mixed mass transit system that would help ease congestion on our roads, helping our elderly residents to have better ability to fulfill their personal needs and helping families with only one car to become more economically independent.

I hope all my neighbors join me May 9 to vote for Marvin Sutton, Arlington City Council, District 3.

— Aftab A. Siddiqui, Arlington

Elect Rivera

Although Arlington District 3 Councilman Robert Rivera does not represent my district, he is still my new personal hero.

He alone, among all Arlington City Council members, voted recently to uphold the 600-foot safety distance for gas well drilling in residential neighborhoods.

This ordinance was passed by the City Council in an attempt to preserve the integrity of Arlington’s neighborhoods and prevent the numerous safety issues inherent in drilling sites within 600 feet of residents’ private homes.

In the first test case, no doubt the first of many, the council voted 8-1 to ignore its own ordinance.

Robert Rivera voted his conscience and is a tireless champion for all Arlington residents. Let’s make sure he is returned to office in the May 9 election.

— Diane M. Gatzke, Arlington

Good choice

John P. Chupp will make a great judge.

Gov. Rick Perry made a good choice in filling the vacancy of the 141st District Court in Fort Worth with Chupp. (See: “Arlington attorney named to fill district judge vacancy,” April 7)

His character is flawless and he is a very honest person. He is an excellent young lawyer, good-looking, and well-known in Arlington. He is the son of Barbara Nash. He will study the case and use good, old common sense in making a decision.

I’m proud to know him over the years and wish him well.

 — Helen Krebs Maddox, Arlington

True advocate

Today we face major challenges at the federal, state and local level. Some of these challenges aren’t new while others are very new.

I, for one, believe that when we look at these challenges, as is often the case, they are best handled by local leaders rather than state or especially federal leaders.

Arlington is no exception, and Kathryn Wilemon has been an outstanding advocate for Arlington and District 4, which she has represented now for almost six years. I have been proud to call her my councilwoman and plan to continue to call her my councilwoman after this election.

My family will be going to the polls to vote for Kathryn Wilemon again this year and I encourage everyone in District 4 to send her back for another term on Arlington’s City Council. She is a true advocate of our wonderful city.

— Roger DeFrang, Arlington

Why go to Mayo?

We have the best doctors, nurses and helpers at Arlington Memorial Hospital and Arlington Rehabilitation Hospital, where I received professional and extraordinary care.

Dr. Benjamin L. Bowers, the best surgeon in the world, is right here in our wonderful city of Arlington, home of the Rangers and our Dallas Cowboys. Love the Star-Telegram also.

— Jettie Samanie, Arlington

Intra, not inter

After reading about the ride-and-park bus service in Arlington, I had to write. The article talked about people taking buses to Fort Worth and about people wanting to take buses to Dallas. The article talked about voters rejecting tax increases for transit in 1980, 1985 and 2002. The article fails to say it was rejected because it was for a commuter bus system.

I voted no each time because we don’t need commuter bus system — we need one for Arlington to travel around the city. In 2002, there was thought about working with the city of Grand Prairie to share a system within our two cities.

As much as Arlington has grown since 2002, when will Mayor Bob Cluck and the rest of the City Council understand that we need an intra-city bus system — not a system?

— Helen Scanlan, Arlington

 

Doubling the utilization?

I note in Thursday’s paper that our North Texas tax-and-spend transportation future is now assured, (See: “Transportation Plan gets Senate panel’s OK,”, March 25) helped along by lobbyists funded by $275,000 from a consortium including the city of Arlington.

Unfortunately, the article next to it (See: “Bus ridership grows: Is it enough?”) notes that an average of 10 people a day ride the bus service between Arlington and downtown Fort Worth and the city may not be able to find the $75,000 to continue it beyond the demonstration period. The transportation plan will reach into every pocket you have to fund a commuter rail along the same route. Rather than $75,000 for 10 riders, try millions.

Well, maybe we can double it to 20 riders.

— John Sweek, Arlington

Pena for schools

I would like to endorse Gloria Pena for Arlington school trustee. Our school district, as all in Texas, is facing challenging times. We will have to face difficult budget decisions, which may include a tax rollback or a capital improvement bond election, and Pena’s board experience will be important.

As someone who has previously run for a school board position against Pena, I have continued to follow our school board activities and hers in particular.

While every trustee hasn’t developed the ability to govern, Pena has, and she has cast some fiscally responsible votes. She has voted against raising taxes and, most recently, ignored special-interest groups and voted against an unbalanced budget that had more than $7 million in recurring expenses. That was the kind of bold move that we will need over the next three years.

— Roger DeFrang, Arlington

Important election

The May 9 city election will be crucial for Arlington residents. Mayor Robert Cluck and his council cronies have put the projected city budget nearly $11 million short. Their wasteful spending could bankrupt Arlington.

Cluck must be replaced by Jerome Pikulinski, who has the knowledge and ability to govern a city and put the residents first. His credentials prove this.

Richard Weber, who knows the inner workings of Arlington and where our dollars are being wasted, must replace Kathryn Wilemon. Marvin Sutton must replace Robert Rivera.

Every vote for Pikulinski, Weber and Sutton will put Arlington back on the right track.

The change to Arlington Mayor Jerome Pikulinski sounds great.

— Robert E. Smith, Arlington

The automakers

Let them go bankrupt. Then they could start from scratch and get things right. We don’t need hundreds of different styles and models of cars.

My first car was a 1934 Ford that got 19 miles per gallon of gas — and nothing much has changed since. Cars would be cheaper and easier to repair if parts were interchangeable.

How many companies do you know that pay a guaranteed salary whether you work or not? It may surprise you to find out how inexpensively a car can be built.

A lot of our problems are of our own making. Unfortunately, we’re a spoiled nation, always looking for something for nothing and expecting someone else to clean up after us.

The housing debacle is a good example. The mirror is a good place to look for the answers.

— Bob Brown, Arlington

Admission paid?

If the City of Arlington owns the new Dallas Cowboys stadium because I paid for it with my taxes, why will I have to pay a fee to Jerry Jones to see what I paid for? It seems that every resident of Arlington should be able to see their investment without additional “Jerry Tax.”

— Charlie Scott, Arlington

Thanks, Pat

We are writing to thank Pat Hardy, our representative on the Texas State Board of Education, for her courageous vote to support the public school science curriculum favored by Texas’ teachers.

Like those teachers, we feel strongly that Texas’ science curriculum should consist of science rather than religious doctrine.

 Moreover, we regard it as a matter of religious freedom that we be able to send our children to Texas’ public schools knowing that they will not be indoctrinated with religious beliefs of any stripe, whether or not the same conflict with what they are taught in our homes and our various houses of worship.

The biblical creation stories are precious to us, too. They teach timeless values we want children to learn in their homes, synagogues and churches. But Pat Hardy is quite right to support the science teachers who want current science and only current science taught in public school science classes.

— Michael Sankary and Karen Telschow Johnson, Fort Worth; Daniel E. Blumberg, Larry Brunell and Wanda Brunell, Arlington

‘Minor’ violations are ‘major’ to walkers

A picture of pride and defiance on the front page of the Star-Telegram — the Burleson driver who beat a ticket on a technicality after running a red light making a right turn seems to think he and others are entitled to “minor” traffic violations undeniably caught on film. (See: “Do cameras make streets safe or just make money?”, Feb. 22)

Here’s how easily “minor” turns major: As one who walks four miles a day through commercial and residential neighborhoods along Camp Bowie Boulevard, I no longer cross an intersection at a traffic light because drivers seldom if ever stop as they make right turns on red. One driver turning without stopping honked at me after I jumped out of her way. If I hadn’t been quick, her “minor” traffic violation might have resulted in a fatality — mine.

The other picture used to illustrate Gordon Dickson’s report shows a car stopped beyond the white line, waiting for the light to change. A “minor” infraction, but the car blocking the pathway forces pedestrians like me out into the street with traffic crossing the intersection on a green light. I saw a blind man walk smack into a car stuck out beyond the white line.

While the man from Burleson says the use of cameras is a scam, Dickson should have cited statistics from the Web site of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and other sources that prove cameras at intersections reduce accidents and save lives.

Two telling numbers: The institute’s national statistics show that lengthening yellow-light time by a second or so reduces accidents by 36 percent. Adding a camera slashes accidents 96 percent on top of the 36 percent cut.

Cameras are essential because we’ll never have enough police to catch all the arrogant scofflaws who ignore rules they decide are minor. And if cities need more money to hire more officers, etc., what better place to get it than from drivers who break the law and endanger the rest of us?

— Jim Pitts, Fort Worth

Waste of time

After reading the article Feb. 12 about the Arlington schools’ staff writing campaign, I had to write.

Luis Castillo’s complaint about employees using school e-mail and letterhead to support Jerry McCullough for superintendent is absurd.

The article describes Castillo as “a former school board candidate.” That explains why he complained. I smell another run for office and wanting some publicity.

As a parent in the school district and a taxpayer, I don’t see any problem. The employees know what they can and cannot do on matters using the district’s resources.

This is just petty and a waste of time and resources by the district because of one lone person.

— Helen Scanlan, Arlington

 

Please have a little patience

America is in a hurry.

And if you are ferrying your 86- and 78-year-old parents, who are in some state ranging from mobility-challenged to near invalid, and all you have going for you and your automobile are handicap license plates plus hazard lights, good luck.

I was taking my parents to the foot doctor where one would assume the tenants and patients would be used to the comings and goings of older individuals. Not so.

It took me some time to become accustomed to how to offload my mother, who is less disabled than my father, but still takes a bit to finagle her way out of the back of my subcompact.

She sits in the back because my father needs what little more room I can afford him. (He is walker-dependent. My mother walks with a cane.)

I looked up the handicap spaces specifics and regulations and talked to an officer in the Arlington Police Department about handicap parking to see if I was doing something wrong.

No.

Without the luxury of a handicap parking space, parked against a normal curb, it requires the legal 18 inches from the curb to accommodate the angle for my dad’s walker, and then despite my trunk being open to obtain the walker and my hazard lights flashing, I’m excruciatingly aware we are at risk for an automobile accident.

Recently, with my mom struggling to get out of my car, a woman did back her car into mine, just inside the loading zone of a grocery store.

It just takes aging people longer to get in and out of a car. It takes some of them longer to walk, period.

Perhaps if drivers who don’t have older parents themselves read this, they will recognize this scenario and have patience.
 
— Cheryl Johnson, Fort Worth

A fundamental purchase needed

Under the Texas Constitution, the state has the basic duty to “provide free textbooks” for public school children. However, the draft budgets released by the Texas House and Senate include zero dollars for new reading textbooks and other existing obligations for instructional materials, including enrollment growth and annual purchases of consumable materials such as elementary math workbooks.

All instructional materials are included as a nearly $900 million contingency in the budget, to be purchased only if the Available School Fund, the constitutionally dedicated funding source, receives $1.4 billion in market earnings. Given the current economy, these gains are unlikely and probably not foreseeable within the current 140-day legislative session. However, there are sufficient other dollars in the fund, including some real estate proceeds and motor fuel taxes, to cover the costs.

Supplying our schoolchildren with instructional materials should not be a choice. If the Legislature fails to fund instructional materials this biennium, more than 1 million elementary students will not have math instructional materials when schools open in fall 2009. In the following year, more than 4.5 million students will not have the new reading materials needed to help them learn new state requirements.

Reading materials are a fundamental purchase. With the state’s first new reading materials in 10 years, Texas is facing its most important textbook purchase.

For only 11 cents per day, Texas can fulfill its current obligations and supply new reading instructional materials to tens of millions of Texas students and teachers over the next decade.

The new reading adoption will include the following materials essential to a student’s future success:

-- New college readiness standards

-- Technical tools such for professional development for teachers

-- Teaching English to the state’s rapidly growing population of English Learners *Electronic tutoring for struggling students

Right now the state has the chance to invest in our children’s futures by funding the most fundamental educational need: Reading.

Our public school children cannot afford to wait.

— Diane Patrick, state representative, District 94, Arlington;

and Donna Howard, state representative, District 48, Austin

Lovely memories

Bouquets to the Star-Telegram for selecting a poignant and sentimental writer like Margie B. Miller to remind us of “old” times in Fort Worth while we are surrounded by a city moving forward at a fast pace. (See: “Stores where they know your name and sizes are disappearing,” Feb. 9)

Her description of the demolition of Stripling & Cox brought back memories of our downtown Stripling’s and lunch with my mom at the Red Rooster, $1.10 costume jewelry at Berry Street Cox’s and Annaclair candy from Stripling & Cox on Camp Bowie Boulevard. Ages ago there were many Stripling’s and multiple Cox’s even outside of Fort Worth.

 In the same breath, bravo to those who wish to move our city forward. There’s a time and place for nostalgic history, but it’s great to see our city staying contemporary as well. I’m looking forward to NEW shopping and more tidbits from Miller!

— Kay Ward Davis, Willow Park

The state of Tarrant County’s homeless

The Tarrant County Homeless Coalition offered the community its first “State of the Homeless” address Feb. 5. The news was good — a 9.9 percent decrease in homelessness in the past year, and more than 18 percent since the last census of the unsheltered homeless in 2007.

The how and why we are seeing reductions, an average of 9 percent decrease each year since 2006, are many. The new dedicated faces on East Lancaster among the shelters and providers and volunteers are many. The investment in case management — the key link between a homeless person and the possibility of a functional and stable life — is priceless. Room In the Inn, Project Wish, Directions Home, Project New Start, Housing Solutions, Patriot House, and more.

We talked and analyzed and ran through numbers and percentages and graphs and arrows. But we should stop and realize that staring at the same PowerPoint presentation alongside the CEO of United Way and the county commissioner, were people who still living the lives of the remaining 90.1 percent that did not make it out of homelessness in the past year.

Not to be deterred they stood and read from thoughtfully prepared remarks, bravely discussing . They bravely discussed the issues of homelessness shoulder-to-shoulder with those with the will, the skills and, in some cases, the purse to make more change happen.

This was the third annual citizen participation forum purposefully held not in a city hall chamber or a convention hall, but in The Salvation Army Mabee Center, warm and welcoming to civic leaders and homeless alike.

In 2007, the prevailing request from the homeless was for storage space to safely hold their bags so they do not have to carry all that they own to a doctor’s appointment, a class or to apply for a job. It was heard, and funds were appropriated through the City of Fort Worth’s homelessness plan last fall.

In 2008, the message was “please, get the drugs off this street!” And it too was heard, and funds were appropriated to hire narcotics officers in the coming year.

This time, the theme was jobs — opportunities and training, help to mediate jobs for the homeless given that many possess a harsh past.  And they, and we, are ready to stand up to those who exploit the homeless.

Being promised a fair wage only to be left at day’s or week’s end with nothing but that promise is, quite simply, immoral.

They asked that someone step forward and help. We promise, as a coalition, as a community, that they will be heard with deliberate and specific actions in 2009.

— Cindy J. Crain, Tarrant County Homeless Coalition, Fort Worth

Meet your neighbors

As one of the “non-Muslim” residents that Erich de Bruyn refers to (See: “A New America is Dawning,” Feb. 4), I would challenge him to get to know some of his Muslim neighbors and to visit a mosque and some of the Muslim social service agencies around the Metroplex.

He might find that he has more in common with them than he knows if he lives in a bunker of fear and sees them all as terrorists. At one time in this country, many residents displayed similar attitudes to Catholics. It was thought they would give their allegiance to Rome and not be patriotic Americans.

— Loveta Eastes, Benbrook

Quid pro quo

The mosque being built in Arlington will be the fourth in a city of more than 365,000 people. (See: “By the book,” Jan. 31) The story quoted Mouffa Nahaas as saying, “We want to add to the diversity of the city.”

Between my wife and I, we have lived and worked 26 years in Iran (pre-Khomeini) and Saudi Arabia. We were not permitted to “add diversity” by constructing any Christian churches or even publicly expressing our religious faith. In fact, in many Muslim countries, it is illegal to even carry a Bible!

We’re all for “diversity.” However, our government should show a little balance. If a mosque is to be built, not just in Arlington but anywhere in the United States, then how about a Christian church be built in the corresponding Muslim country, a quid pro quo if you will. I wonder how much of the mosque’s construction cost was provided by the Saudis or front organizations.

With 37 mosques in the D-FW metropolitan area, how much “diversity” do we need?

— Carlos Bendiks, Arlington

Let’s show Texas at our Super Bowl

This is an open letter to Jerry Jones, Roger Staubach, the mayors of Fort Worth, Dallas and Arlington, and the rest of the 2011 Super Bowl Committee.

The Metroplex will be hosting the Super Bowl in two years, so there is plenty of time to pick the right performer(s) for the halftime extravaganza. Since this is the first time the Super Bowl will be in Texas, let’s have someone who represents the Lone Star State.

We don’t need Bruce Springsteen, the Jacksons, one of the rockers from England. We need a country/Western performer from Texas, or at least someone who knows what Texas is all about.

How about Willie Nelson, George Strait, Brooks & Dunn, Garth Brooks or George Jones? You have a world of people to choose from and I’m sure they can put on a halftime show that the whole nation can enjoy.

How about it? Let’s show some Texas pride and spirit.

— Jimmie Vaughan, Springtown

A kid speaks out

People drinking alcohol around me make me feel very uncomfortable. I pay for a season pass for Six Flags, a “kid- friendly” place to have fun and enjoy rides and much more. Now I may go to Six Flags and there would be a person drinking liquor. I’m saying people should not be drinking in a kid environment because sometimes drunks become different people. They can be belligerent and confused. Drunks could sometimes hurt other people or themselves. These are some of the reasons why I think Six Flags shouldn’t be selling alcohol. I want it to be the same as always. I want it to be a fun, safe place for kids.

— Alex Corbin, 11, Trophy Club

Tone it down

Could we please stop the hysteria regarding beer sales at Six Flags? Does anyone actually believe that a venue like this is conducive to excessive drinking?

This is not an experiment with Six Flags. The parent company already owns other parks where beer sales have been in place without the dire, what-if scenarios raised by Star-Telegram letter-writers. This park is a business enterprise and if it helps the bottom-line and to stay in operation, especially during the scary economic times that are sure to come, then I say let it sell beer.

These kinds of businesses are precarious enough without people getting all flushed about something that has not even happened and is not likely to. If you want to talk about family-friendly enterprises selling beer in excess, then let’s talk about professional baseball games.

— Jill Wesstrom, Arlington

New shelter but same problems

During tough economic times, the voiceless and helpless seem to pay the highest price, including the homeless and abandoned animals that wind up at Arlington Animal Services.

Historically understaffed with a low budget, there are very few AAS employees to provide daily care for the literally hundreds of dogs, cats and exotics that the old (and the new shelter once opened) is capable of housing. This is not the fault of capable AAS staff, but it can result in more animals killed after the short, required three-day holding period.

I’m a former chair of the Arlington Animal Services Advisory Board, who served voluntarily for many years. Our board saw many good changes at the shelter, but I lost heart when the 2003 bond election left the new shelter’s building project underfunded.

Arlington still seems stuck in the old “animal control” rut, unwilling to truly allocate necessary resources for a more-effective shelter environment that benefits the animals.

Local animal-welfare activists recently brought the low staffing problem at Arlington Animal Services to light once again. Even with the new building yet to open, the current ratio of staff to possible animal intake seems lacking.

The ever-growing need of Arlington’s homeless and abandoned animals is a horrible realty faced by every city. As tax-paying residents, we should demand better care for these poor creatures while they await their fate — the slim hope of adoption, or death just because a short time has passed.

This is ours to do — not the county, not the state and not a local non-profit group. I hope the city manager, the mayor and the council find a way to meet the challenge to provide AAS with staff resources and raise the bar high — for once.

— Linda Yarbrough, Arlington

 

Police have wrong priority

Let me start by saying that I believe that Arlington has some of the finest police officers available.

That said, I find it a shame that the city’s policies render them nearly incompetent.

On Dec. 23, my rent house on Cornfield Drive was broken into, with more than $4,000 worth of goods stolen and property damaged. It is less than a mile from our beautiful new police substation on Green Oaks Boulevard, yet it took almost five hours for anyone to respond.  My renters called 7:30 p.m. and I placed a second 911 call at 9 p.m. We were both told that someone should be there within an hour, but no one ever showed up.

Apparently an officer finally arrived around 12:15 a.m.; at least that’s when I received a return phone call. I was asleep by then and did not hear the phone ring. There was only one call, no message and no answer when I returned the call. I had to go the substation the next morning to get someone over to write a police report.

I find it appalling that Arlington is known for its brigade of 10 or 15 traffic cops who have plenty of time to stand on the overpasses and give out tickets to people going 10 to 15 mph over the speed limit. Yet when your home is broken into and your personal belongings are taken, there seems to be little concern to do anything about it.

I know the traffic officers help bring in revenue, but I honestly think that is what our taxes are supposed to be for. With all the taxes I’ve paid this year, I could have hired my own private investigator.

Shouldn’t we allow our police officers to do their jobs? Shouldn’t they be available to “protect and serve” rather than raise money for the city?

Police officers I talked to said they were just understaffed, yet there never seems to be a lack of officers on Texas 360 or Interstate 20.

Maybe they’re not understaffed, just mismanaged.

— Kirk Blankenship, Arlington

Customer management

Arlington’s storm-water management policy requires customers be billed an extra charge on their monthly water bills. This extra charge is proportional to the total surface area on a customer’s property from which storm water drains. That is the sum of all surface areas of buildings as well as all paved areas outside of such buildings that are located on each customer’s properties.

However, the cost of the city’s overall storm-water management project could be greatly reduced if enough individual landlords were to collect and store storm water via gutters, etc. in a cistern or cisterns, and use that water instead of city-supplied water wherever this is feasible and permissible.

This also could significantly lower the customer’s usage and cost of city-supplied water as well as the city’s storm-water surcharge.

—Jerry Perry, Arlington

Why the anger?

I fail to understand the anger expressed toward the automakers.

Should they have foreseen the recession more than the rest of us and retooled to build more small, energy-efficient cars when their customers were demanding large, gas-hog SUVs?

The auto companies have always offered small vehicles. The ones who should have foreseen the downturn were the politicians and mortgage lenders pushing sub-prime mortgages on unqualified home buyers.

They caused this mess. They even had a previous example in the collapse of savings and loans years ago and the problems with variable-rate and balloon-note loans. Why not fire those trying the same failed strategy blindly hoping for a different result?

Some people should not be homeowners, and they deserve part of the blame for signing mortgages that offer low initial cost, assuming they could handle the increase later.

— Deana Glenn, Fort Worth

Bankruptcy the answer

Any bailout for General Motors is more accurately a bailout of the United Auto Workers.

The UAW, through strikes and threats of strikes at the most vulnerable time of production and marketing, has brought on employee wages and benefits that now threaten the very life of GM.

The only practical long-term solution seems to allow GM to go bankrupt, thus giving the motor giant a chance to contract for wages and benefits that will allow it to become competitive again.

Politicians generally avoid making any statement or taking any actions that might be classed as anti-union. Now seems the time when they must face up to the truth.

— Emmett Tiner, Fort Worth

Automakers, UAW make easy targets

Enough is enough! United Auto Workers at General Motors’ Arlington assembly plant are said to be off for 30 days during the holidays with almost full pay.

We will be off 28 days. Six of those are unpaid weekends. Ten are partially covered with unemployment, and Jan. 19 is a holiday for most Americans. The financial industry employs bank tellers, secretaries, clerks and receptionists, none of whom are responsible for their companies’ downfall, nor being asked to “share the pain.”

All we do is build trucks. Why is the target on my back?

— Philip Bush, Mansfield

Self-inflicted wounds

The Republicans did not bust the unions, the unions broke themselves with their own stupidity by refusing to work with the companies they latched onto to keep them operating and by forcing the companies to lose millions of dollars a year paying laid-off workers. (See: “Union-busting?” and “Where’s the party?” Dec. 16)

That is the biggest loss of revenue — for a non-productive person. Only a union can and does suck the life blood out of a business.

— Barry Lawhorn, Fountain, Colo.

Consider the source

As usual, I disagree with U.S. Rep. Joe Barton, R-Arlington, and with the Star-Telegram in allowing Barton space for an extremely long dissertation that contains few facts and a lot of bull. (See: “Loans to the Big Three are a necessity,” Dec. 10)

The Big Three will continue to bankrupt themselves and, if Barton has his way, it will cost the American public billions. This doesn’t take premonition skills. You just need to know a little history of Barton’s corporate connections.

In 1996, when the FDA went after Big Tobacco, Barton badgered the FDA’s commissioner until he quit. Since then, Big Tobacco has caused the deaths of more than 6 million Americans.

In 1996, Barton accepted a $6 million donation from RJR for the Republican Party and many other personal donations from Big Tobacco and many other corporate sponsors.

Barton has persistently welcomed and plays to corporate greed rather than representing the people of his district. He measures up well to the current Republican ideas of a government of the corporation, by the corporation and for the corporation.

Just a couple months ago, Barton voted against the $700 billion bailout, and now he wants us to believe that bailing out General Motors, in his district, is a good thing.

— Leonard Jensen, Fort Worth