It’s time for taxpayers to demand that CMS be split into smaller districts.
Break CMS into smaller districts
What is happening at CMS? First, over $1 million was spent on a security system that does not work, with no indication that we’ll get our money back. Now, we find out our children were forced to take a survey containing questions about their sexuality, with no opt-out.
In both cases the public was duped by those in charge. Questions are asked of them, but no answers are forthcoming. It is time for the taxpayers to demand CMS be split into at least four districts. One superintendent cannot be in charge of this entire mess any longer. Remove those in power and start over.
Celia Powell, Charlotte
A vital part of Charlotte history
Regarding “Longtime Charlotte LGBTQ leader Dan Kirsch dies at 66,” (Feb. 27):
Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, I admired Dan Kirsch’s courage. He was often the only gay person who was willing to be quoted. He spoke for many who were too frightened to speak up for themselves. He led the charge for equality while so many of us were in the closet or cautiously keeping a low profile.
In recent years, I’ve heard people say that progress on LGBT equality has come quickly. Nothing could be further from the truth. The progress came only after Dan and other LGBT leaders spent decades fighting - years of tireless effort and disappointing setbacks before any positive change happened. They faced hostility long before experiencing success. Today, we stand on their shoulders.
R. Jeep Bryant, Charlotte
How the US should fix student loan debt
Student loan debt continues to rise in the U.S. It was $517 billion in 2006 and is now $1.5 trillion. It will keep rising because college tuition and fees increase annually.
Rather than educating high school students on financial literacy, the government spends a substantial sum on regulation and education of teen drug use and prevention. And the government spent $3.4 million of taxpayer money to fund Donald Trump’s Super Bowl party.
If millions can be spent on drug and alcohol programs and Trump’s party, then some of that money can be used to clear student loan debt and solve that financial crisis.
Hillary Gyamfi, Charlotte
Pick a candidate with broader appeal
The current Democratic primary dynamics are similar to what happened to the Republicans in 2016: Like Donald Trump, Bernie Sanders is the extreme, polarizing candidate who is not the establishment choice and would probably not win a two-way contest for the nomination.
The majority of Democrats prefer a more centrist candidate, but their votes are split by multiple more moderate contenders. If Sanders does not win a majority of delegates, the brokered convention should pick a candidate with broader appeal, even at the risk of alienating Sanders’ supporters. The alternative is a nominee only a minority of voters will support.
Matt Gromet, Charlotte
Dems, remove the rose-colored glasses
Democrats, please take off your rose-colored glasses. Bernie Sanders cannot defeat Donald Trump. The GOP will throw millions into false advertising about the evils of socialism. It’s already apparent the Russians will flood social media with false messages.
What could he even accomplish as president? His grandiose plans sound good in speeches but he has no chance of getting them through the Senate. The House likely will not support them either.
If Sanders is on the ticket, how many seats might we lose in this election as collateral damage?
Brenda Mills, Charlotte
I want a candidate who can unite us
Trying to decide who to vote for in this presidential election gives new meaning to the old phrase “between the devil and the deep blue sea.” On one side I can choose “the devil.” On the other side I’m left searching among a sea of candidates for one strong leader who can unite us again and lead us with dignity and integrity.
Judy Taylor, Mint Hill
The Panthers did right by Greg Olsen
Regarding “Panthers treated Greg Olsen poorly,” (Feb. 25 Forum):
I am not sure why people are upset with how the Carolina Panthers organization treated Greg Olsen. Owner David Tepper actually gave Olsen a gracious gift. While we wallow in mediocrity, Olsen is able to go to a team with a winning culture, established quarterback, and great coach. It is Christian McCaffrey I feel sorry for.
Wes Barry, Charlotte
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This story was originally published February 27, 2020 at 3:05 PM.