Do we really want socialism?
Editor: We’ve been hearing a lot recently about the idea of socialism and how Americans feel about it. And for some of us, extreme worry occurs when we hear that the idea that socialism as an acceptable way of life is on the rise for an increasingly larger portion of our population.
First remember what socialism is. Socialism with a happy face is taking from the extreme wealthy and giving to those in need. Socialism in reality is your government confiscating a sizable portion of what your worked for and earned at your job, and that confiscation includes anyone: a business, large or small, a corporation, a private citizen (school teacher, nurse, doctor, lawyer, personal trainer, auto mechanic or coffee barista to name a few). I believe that the idea of socialism is so appealing for some who reason it helps those in need. Why shouldn’t those with so much redistribute it to those who don’t have enough? But what is not often understood is that socialism is a government mandate, enforced by a required confiscation, no exceptions.
I’d like to suggest something for those who think socialism is the next great thing for America to try (and I’m not talking about the very valid suggestion of visiting and taking in the many “splendors” of Venezuela). My suggestion is for us to consider the “social” part of socialism.
As Americans, we are so generous, social, and charitable. If those in need require assistance, then let’s give to our charities. And traditionally, as Americans, we do, as there is not a more generous nation around. We need not rely on government to solve the issue of helping those in need. We just need to remember to give of ourselves and what we have and to do so through a reputable charitable organization.
We can support our local shelters like the Salvation Army to assist the homeless and disadvantaged or our churches for similar support. Through charity we preserve the American way, the principles that have made America great and allow us to live in freedom and security. KATY MARCONI Lodi
Time for a council shakeup
Editor: Please Lodi, do not support the same recycled council members. It is time for all new faces and new blood.
Also there should be a limit on how long theses people can be on the council. Now they tell us what we want to hear, then get their new positions and then do nothing.
Also, this town needs to figure out how to get rid of these transients, and how to keep this town from growing. We don’t have enough police for this town, and the ones we do have aren’t like the old school cops that work at what they do, and give tickets like they should.
This young generation will park and talk to each other in the parking lots, or you will see three cop cars roll up on a transient. Really? Also, what happened to giving traffic tickets for blacked-out tinted windows and windshields, and crossing double solid yellow lines and speeding and texting and driving?
These are all safety issues that make money and keep everybody in line and safe. Well they say they don’t have time for that because all of the transients calls. Well I believe that! So get rid of them.
It’s really a simple solution LPD, but you say your hands are tied. I hear the excuses all the time. This used to be a very clean, respectable town, but it is turning into Stockton. Quit saying and acting like your hands are tied. It’s time to take drastic measures and clean this town up. JIMMY GIBSON Lodi
Letters invited
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