Your Views: Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Published: September 5, 2007

If Oklahoma City doesn't demolish the rundown homes and businesses west of the downtown area, the city will return to mediocrity. A glorious downtown and Bricktown won't stand on their own for the future of Oklahoma City. I propose a series of taxes to build a city worthy of all who live here. Quality, educated people will never move en masse to Oklahoma City if a beautification project doesn't take place.

We need a greenbelt to the west of downtown. Statues of famous Oklahomans would fit well into such a park, along with fountains, vendors with food carts, a large swimming pool, etc. This could be accomplished with a 2-cent sales tax over a 10-year period. This would also help with the attempts by St. Anthony Hospital to beautify the area.

Mark L. Johnson, Oklahoma City

My brother was recently the recipient of a donor liver. I wanted to let the family of the donor know how much we appreciate their thoughtful gift. Just last week my brother didn't think he'd ever live to see his children marry or see his first grandchild. Now, thanks to the family of the donor, these things and so much more will be possible for him.

Many people don't realize what a difference they can make in so many people's lives if they'd check that little box on their driver's license or let their family know their wishes. I signed up to be an eye donor back in the 1970s and have let my family know my wishes and have had the box on my driver's license checked for many years. Since my brother has been ill, I think most of our family members have also checked that little box.

Thanks again to the unknown donor and his/her family. We appreciate so much the gift you've given us.

Debbi Mulliniks Boyd, Okemah

As a mother of a warrior, I'm so glad Judy Kemp (Your Views, Aug. 29) feels as she does. I've always thanked everyone in uniform for the job they do and for the sacrifice they and their families make for this great country. I'm also a Blue Star mother and no matter how much we do or see and hear we never "get used to it.” Bless you, Judy, and all the wonderful people just like you. My son said the reason he joined is to protect all people and I'm proud of him and all the people in uniform.

Brenda Finley, Yukon

With all the talk about merit pay for teachers, perhaps a legislative committee should also consider a merit pay system for our legislators and other elected officials.

Bill Sunderland, Woodward

Democrats and some Republicans want to pull the troops out of Iraq by early 2008. Let's say all troops are home by then. By the end of year, all hell will break loose. The Democrats will say, "See, we knew this would happen. Elect a Democrat for president and we'll fix the problem. Oh, by the way we're offering free health care to everyone and you'll have plenty of money left over for fun and freedom!” Wasn't there a president who promised a car in every garage and a chicken in every pot?

Rick R. Saunders, Oklahoma City

A majority of Americans believe the country is on the wrong track due to its leadership. We've spent four years claiming we could rebuild Iraq when we can't and two years claiming we can't rebuild New Orleans when we can. This is the result of putting people who don't believe in government in charge of government.

Carl O. Owen III, Moore

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