Letters to the Editor: Sept. 9, 2010

I say “Thumbs Down” to the sheriff’s DUI checkpoints.

Yes, I have had a very good friend killed by a drunk driver so I know how that changes so many people’s lives. I’m not trying to be all liberal and say have pity for the people that commit these crimes; in fact I feel just the opposite.

When someone gets pulled over (not at a checkpoint) for one of these driving infractions, throw the book at them, especially drunk driving. My problem is with having to prove I’m innocent. Doesn’t that bother anyone else? Under the guise of “safety” we lose more rights.

To some this might be stretching it, but how long before the police/government knock on your front door and say they need to search your house for “safety” reasons? You’re walking your dog down the street and the police stop to search you for “safety” reasons. Every time we give in, we lose a little more freedom.

I can take care of my own safety.
David Thompson
Poway

Not up-front about fees
As the parent of a Poway High School freshman, I was interested to read the Aug. 26 story regarding the “donation” of fees to the band.

I was never under the impression from the school that the fees were voluntary. In fact, it is amazing how quickly the form “F” that outlined the fees (yes, they did use the word, “fees”) was removed from the website (after registration day, naturally).

It is also interesting to note that the fees are in part for keeping the band uniforms clean, since I volunteered to be a uniform launderer. I asked for an itemized receipt for my “donation” and was not given one.

I recognize that in the current situation facing the state, there are minimal funds to back up programs like the band program. It would be a shame to deny the kids the opportunity to participate, and I’m quite sure the band competitions have a price tag. That being said, I wish the school had been more up-front about where the fees were going and that one could opt out.
Sarah Worthington
Poway

Put health above greed
It is time we put the health of American people above the greed of corporate polluters. We cannot leave it to their lobbyist to shower our representatives with contributions and gifts to get their vote against strong legislation to clean up America’s air and water ways and our oceans
Robert Bogart
Sabre Springs