Law-abiding Lawbreakers?
I was just reading Rafael Prieto Zartha’s column (“My People,” March 29) and noticed that he had come up with yet another name for illegal immigrants: “irregular personnel.” It seems funny to me that they continue to come up with these names in order to try to make people forget that these folks are Illegal, first and foremost. Mr. Prieto Zartha’s term “law abiding undocumented immigrants,” from his March 15 column, is my favorite so far.
Does Mr. Zartha have any idea of the number of laws these folks have broken in just coming here and maintaining a life outside the law? I also noticed that he felt that 70 percent of the people arrested on other charges could be illegal. I am a longtime proponent of legal immigration and have been to a naturalization ceremony. Let me tell you that it was one of the proudest moments of my life to see all those folks from all over the world pledging to uphold the laws of this country. I greatly resent the people who come here illegally and give a bad name to those who would come here legally. My friends from other countries who went through the legal process feel the same way. Until people are willing obey the laws of this country and come here legally, they cannot expect the rest of us to welcome them with open arms. We reserve our welcome to true law-abiding immigrants.
I did notice in his most recent column that there is room for us to establish common ground, in that he wants to ultimately have a realistic guest worker program and punish employers of illegal immigrants after giving the ones here amnesty. Since I am not willing to forgive all the criminals with one action, might I suggest a “one out, one in” program, where one legal immigrant would be allowed for every illegal who is expelled or leaves willingly? I would not prosecute anyone on the way out, which would be my idea of a good amnesty. Remember that we are a country of immigrants and we want people to come here and keep the American dream alive. We just want to know who they are and that they have broken no laws.
— Bill Stroupe, Cherryville
Arthouse in Ballantyne?
Re: “Alien Territory” (by John Grooms, March 22), I enjoyed John Grooms’ humorous take on the new Village Theater. I didn’t even know there was a new theater (must keep up with local news more). Why did the owners put this type of movie house in Ballantyne? Wouldn’t downtown, NoDa, Dilworth, etc. have the better demographic fit to support art house/alternative flicks?
That figures. This town gets a couple of extra screens for movies I like and they put the place way the hell in Ballantyne.
— Beverly Rice, Charlotte
Smith fumbles
I just read Kelly Hill’s article, “Cruisin’ With The Panthers” (Urban Explorer, March 29). All I have to say is: “You go girl,” because you were right on the money, about everything! I can make that determination because, you see, I was on the cruise as well. Like you, I have to say I was somewhat disappointed with the player’s actions — or should I say, non-actions. The worst incident came when my friend Jodi said hello to Steve Smith (a courtesy she would show to anyone) as she and he were both at the drink machine at the same time. Evidently, it was too much to ask for Mr. Smith to reply with a simple “Hi” or at least a smile. He got his drink and hurried on his way. In sharp contrast to that, I had a really nice conversation with Brad Hoover, an absolutely wonderful guy! He listened politely as I told him that my brother as well as my nephew and niece had all graduated from Western Carolina (Mr. Hoover’s alma mater), then I went on to tell him how much my 80-year-old mother enjoys watching the Panthers play. He broke into a big grin and thanked me for telling him that because hearing those sorts of things means a lot and makes it all worthwhile. Now, how great is that? I was really impressed. If I had bought a Panther jersey prior to the cruise, it would have had No. 89 and Steve Smith plastered across the back — after all, he is an awesome player — but I can tell you that post-Panther cruise, this Carolina Girl will be wearing a No. 45 — Brad Hoover!
— Lynndy Clements, Charlotte
This article appears in Apr 5-11, 2006.
