Letters to the editor | Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021: A story of struggle and hope
Near Christmas, story sounds familiar
No doubt on some unfriendly nation’s border, a couple and their newborn huddle inside a makeshift shelter. Driven far from home by forces beyond their influence or understanding. Innocent victims — cold, hungry, fearful. Yet risking everything to ensure that their child might fulfill the hope and promise that all babies bring into the world. Again.
Jack Heinsius, Modesto
How to give up tobacco
The specifics of a Modesto Bee article addressed smoking cessation and the use of e-cigarettes in ways that are not helpful.
California Smokers’ Helpline has been rebranded as Kick It California, a free program that helps Californians quit smoking, vaping, and smokeless tobacco. The program can be utilized by a wide variety of ages and populations, including youth and healthcare professionals.
As a teacher and community member I am concerned as I have seen a dramatic rise in the use of vaping devices in schools. I think that many don’t realize just how harmful vaping is, especially to young people.
The Modesto Bee can make a difference and improve the health of our communities by sharing and promoting Kick It CA as a resource. Kick It California uses proven, science-based strategies such as free coaching, texting programs, live phone calls, and tools for healthcare professionals.
Scott Mitchell, Modesto
Donuts tasty in Oakdale, too
Re “Sunshine Donut in Patterson tops Bee reader poll” (Page A3, Dec. 7): While I agree with your recent Stanislaus County donut store survey, I’m wondering how Scotty’s Donuts in Oakdale was somehow overlooked. This very popular and professionally run business has been around for many years at the same location. Anyone who has patronized Scotty’s will agree that when it comes to quality and service, there are none better. I suggest you check them out.
Warren Baize, Oakdale
Who to blame for inflation
Re “Making Stanislaus County and the Valley affordable again” (Page 6A, Dec. 7): How nice that Congressman Josh Harder is given a campaign forum by The Modesto Bee. The Bee is all too willing to promote leftist candidates like Mr. Harder, whose actions have been disastrous for The Central Valley.
When government spends massive amounts of money, it has to print more money, thereby reducing the value of the dollars in your wallet. Yet, Harder supported Biden’s uncontrolled spending program (most of which is not infrastructure) which has resulted in massive inflation for all Americans.
Harder claims he is concerned about high gas prices, but did and said nothing when Biden shut down domestic oil production and halted construction of the Keystone Pipeline.
If Harder wants to bring jobs to the Valley, why does he support federal tax credits for goods made in China? Jobs will come to the Valley if the business climate is favorable. Companies want candidates with education and life skills so opening schools to in-person learning is critical. Lockdowns, vaccine mandates, and the threat of higher corporate taxes, all of which are supported by Harder, are not ways to attract business.
John Stoner, Modesto
Where Trump went right
President Trump failed, not on policy but on personality because he demanded loyalty to him instead of arguing the merits of his policy against those who disagreed. He succeeded in many policy endeavors including a robust economy, lowest unemployment rate in 50 years, energy independence, improved trade agreements, a secure border, reduced Mideast tension between Israel and UAE, and the list goes on.
However, despite the successes of President Trump, he will be better known for his failure to be personable with those who disagreed with him. Trump forced Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign because of his disagreement with Sessions, who recused himself from taking charge of an investigation into charges Trump colluded with Russia during the 2016 presidential election. Trump chastised Vice-President Pence for not supporting Trump’s request to not certify the electoral count. Trump recently said of Netanyahu, “f--- him” because Netanyahu congratulated President Biden on his victory. These comments and many Tweets illustrate the demand for loyalty.
The Republican Party needs a candidate who has the policy acumen of a Trump with the grace of someone who can withstand differences of opinion without taking difference personally.
Richard Tassinari, Waterford
This story was originally published December 19, 2021 at 5:00 AM.