Bonuses are helping hard-working families

Pay teachers like you value them

In response to “The Titanic? No, kids can overcome poverty and learn” (Jan. 30 op-ed):

Mr. Johnson, first you announce that $35,000 is “good money” for people in their mid-20s, and then you write that “Poverty will end when we improve our education system...” Young adults choose to become teachers because they believe they can make a difference in the lives of children. They are among the lowest paid college graduates with one of the hardest post-college jobs.

These are the adults we entrust our children to. Are they not worth more than a sub-standard salary? Attracting the best and brightest – and then keeping them – requires that they get paid a decent living wage commensurate to their level of education and job responsibilities.

Cathy Grady, Charlotte

Putting ourselves in others’ shoes

In response to “I had a surprising health care epiphany” (Jan. 25 Forum):

Thank you for your humility, Forum writer Barry Marshall. How often we have these surprising epiphanies when we allow ourselves to consider what others must confront. I did not vote for Mr. Trump because of many epiphanies – will you please consider other human conditions by putting yourself in those shoes as well? There, by the grace of God, go I...

Amy Hendee, Shelby

Don’t accept medical discrimination

In response to “Doctors can’t ignore some morals” (Jan. 31 Forum):

Allowing doctors, nurses and pharmacists to decide whom they will assist and and whom they won’t is the epitome of discrimination. They should not be in the industry if they refuse to help all. Forum writer Tom L. Bowers says that Dr. Frederick Greene suggests “outcomes that insult the moral integrity of men and women of conscience.” Conscience? Call them what they are. Men and women who allow bigotry and discrimination in God’s name. WWJD? He would help all! By the way, I am a Christian who was raised Catholic.

Holly Saftner, Charlotte

We’re cleaning up, making a difference

In response to “Charlotte littering is out of hand” (Jan. 23 Forum):

The increasing litter problem in the Charlotte area is certainly discouraging. It is encouraging, however, to read about the efforts of individuals who are addressing the problem.

I belong to a small Monroe group that also has become litter activists. Last year we adopted several roads, a local stream, promoted litter controls and worked to improve load controls to the local landfill. In addition, we have organized volunteer groups for large scale road cleanups. The city and county have been extremely supportive of our efforts. Although it is a continuing battle, I have been amazed what a small community group can accomplish. I encourage all concerned citizens to become actively involved. It is up to us.

Mike Winchester, Monroe

Restore confidence in government

Donald Trump has repeatedly attacked the FBI for being riddled with corrupt Clinton-loving moles. He acts like a person with much to hide.

What is the excuse for congressional Republicans to parrot the same dishonest slander? Is the reward of tax cuts for the wealthy and anti-abortion judges worth willfully eroding basic trust in the American system of justice?

I ask Sens. Tillis and Burr, and Rep. Pittenger – do you have no sense of decency at all, sirs? At all?

Michael A. Clark,

Charlotte

Thank you for criticizing earmarks

In response to “Earmarks trying to make a comeback” (Jan. 26 For the Record):

Thank you, congressman Ted Budd, for your column on the use of earmarks when evaluating and voting on new legislation. You gave a great explanation of the use of earmarks. Term limits on members of Congress also needs some attention. If it works for presidents, why not the rest? Barney Fife would be proud of you.

Richard Lynch, Charlotte

Duke customers should share cost

I understand that coal ash is a huge problem now and it needs to be cleaned up. We the customers in the past have benefited from Duke not taking the needed steps with regards to processing coal ash and the ponds. The expense at that time, years ago, would have caused rate increases and everyone would be jumping up and down then as they are now. Customers saved money at that time and we are having to “pay the piper,” as is Duke.

Bill Lane, Polkville

This story was originally published January 31, 2018 at 6:20 PM with the headline "Improve the education system by paying teachers what they’re worth."