Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 02.23.16

Don’t penalize chronic pain patients

In an attempt to combat the problem of opiate abuse, the CDC, FDA and lawmakers have applied a one-size-fits-all approach. This leaves medical practitioners frustrated and fearful, and legitimate chronic pain patients even more so.

There is a considerable and substantial difference between addiction and dependence. As a chronic pain sufferer for over 35 years, pain medication permits me to be a functioning and contributing member of society.

There has to be a balanced, collaborative and pragmatic approach to combat opiate abuse – one that doesn’t leave chronic pain patients held hostage by the very agencies and constituents that are supposed to be serving them.

Obama shouldn’t have missed funeral

President Obama should have attended the funeral of Antonin Scalia. The service was held in Washington, and the reason offered by the president for his non-attendance was ridiculous at best.

Although the president and Scalia differed philosophically on numerous issues, he still should have been present at the funeral of a justice of the Supreme Court, an esteemed position within our federal government.

Republicans are dishonoring Scalia

Barack Obama was elected to a four-year term, not one that ended when the next presidential campaign began.

By vowing to leave the seat open for a minimum of 11 months, Republicans are dishonoring the legacy of Justice Scalia and his interpretation of the Constitution.

Remember, Congress declares wars

Ira Myers is concerned that the next president may be “required to order troops into harm’s way”. I am more concerned that the next president understands that under our Constitution, it is the Congress, and not the president acting unilaterally, who has the power to declare war. The president serves as Commander In Chief once Congress calls the military into service.

Mr. Bush bombed at least four countries, and Mr. Obama at least seven, all without a congressional declaration of war. I will vote only for a presidential candidate who respects our Constitution’s division of powers.

Don’t let prosperity push homeless out

In response to the message my minister, the Rev. Bob Henderson, wrote about the location of the Men’s Shelter and Urban Ministry Center, I offer one word: AMEN!

Our faith compels us to care for those who need our help, wherever they happen to be.

My prayer is that the renovated Men’s Shelter will provide help for the homeless and will strengthen, rather than weaken, the community.

Bonds will spur economic growth

It was good to read about the $2 billion Connect NC bond package on the March 15 ballot.

In addition to funds being utilized for new buildings and upgrades at campuses in the UNC system, as well as millions to benefit CPCC and other community colleges, passage of the bond package will be a key factor in infrastructure and agricultural investments in our state.

Agriculture and agribusiness are important to our state’s economic growth, spurring the type of innovation local farmers need to increase production and profitability, as well as protect the environment.

A misunderstanding of the Court’s job

Op-ed columnist Kim Holmes sorely needs to learn how the United States government works. It is not a democracy, run by the people, but a republic, ruled by those who are elected by the people.

The Supreme Court exists to prevent these rulers from excesses that would take away rights from the people. It operates on a set of rules called the Constitution, not by what they think the people want.

This story was originally published February 22, 2016 at 4:36 PM with the headline "Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 02.23.16."