Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, August 24, 1994 TAG: 9410010010
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A10 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Long
For example, Clinton wants to spend more than $20 million on ``midnight basketball,'' and millions more on arts-and-crafts programs to supposedly build ``self-esteem'' in young punks by using our tax dollars. The president's bill also has make-work job-training centers that will cost on average $20,000 per person per year - more than it costs to send students to most colleges. This is the same gravy-train ride that President Lyndon Johnson (Sen. Chuck Robb's father-in-law) put over on the American people in the great war on poverty of '64-'65 by opening lots of storefront offices, and staffing them with political hacks at very high salaries, where nothing helpful for the needy was ever done.
Are you telling me this is about fighting crime? Give me a break. It's just more big-spending politics as usual. I'm proud that Goodlatte had the guts to stand up and say no to this wasteful boondoggle.
U. SCOTT ADKINS ROANOKE
Be wary of reform's consequences
THE UNITED States has the best health care in the world. From all countries, those who are ill come here for the very best treatment they can receive.
Everyone knows when a new plan sounds too good to be true, one should be very careful in accepting the offer.
The main issue before the House and Senate is the health-care plan. Legislators are saying: Today, those who are covered with health care are paying for those who aren't covered. The plan being promoted is to be paid by whom? You - taxpayers, employers and those presently covered.
Medicare is paid for by taxpayers and seniors who receive it. Within the past 10 years, Medicare has reduced payments on a number of illnesses and preventive treatments, plus the deductible has steadily risen. With implementation of the new health plan as projected, Medicare will make reductions in all areas of health care, including preventive medicine.
A new health-care program may sound like a dream come true, but be aware of the consequences.
PAULINE F. PAYNE ROANOKE
Silent Majority supports Robb
SEN. CHARLES Robb will win re-election on Nov. 8 because he best represents the views of a majority of Virginians. The majority that Will Rogers recognized and called the Silent Majority is made up of honest, hard-working people who go about their lives daily, striving to achieve their share of the American dream.
This Silent Majority has been the backbone of our state and nation from their beginning. It might appear that sometimes they lose interest in the political process, and sometimes this would be justified. But when decision time arrives, they have a record of responding and choosing the best-qualified person for the job.
This Silent Majority wants a representative who serves all its members without resorting to fear tactics and character assassinations to obtain the opportunity to serve. They want someone who knows and obeys the law. They prefer representatives who participate in the political process through its normal channels, and then abide by the outcome of these normal proceedings.
FREDDIE ROSENBAUM CRIPPLE CREEK
Group home will be an asset
WE WANT to let Franklin County's citizens know our feelings concerning the group home that's being planned at 126 Church St., Rocky Mount.
As the pastor and his wife of the Rocky Mount Baptist Church and also as citizens of our great county, we're 100 percent in favor of the home.
We've been in support of this home from its inception. Also, our church deacons view it as an asset to the community. We believe it's a true ministry to our neighbors, who have the privilege of working at the Developmental Center.
We're proud to be a part of a county that has so many good agencies to help the needy and handicapped. The Developmental Center, The Free Clinic, The Heavenly Mana Food Bank and STEP, Inc., to mention only a few, show that Franklin County and the town of Rocky Mount are truly concerned for its citizens.
JOE and ELIZABETH BRYANT
ROCKY MOUNT
Baseball strike is a family value
LET ME count our blessings.
The man of the house now has more time to spend with his wife and family. We can go on picnics, go fishing together, play a game of horseshoes, or go on a trail hike. In other words, get to know the family better instead of going to a ball game or sitting in front of the boob tube all weekend.
But best of all are the money we save, and the rich conversations we have (not timed by commercials). What a blessing: maybe no World Series.
In our country, only the owners and players win. That goes for all sports. To treat a family to a day at the ball park, you'll spend at least $100, possibly $150. What a beautiful weekend the family can have for that kind of money.
INGRID HEARN-HARVEY CHECK
by CNB