Letters to the Editor: October 2009

Health care debate

Why do you use the words “hype,” “lies” and “fear-mongering” in your article on the health care debate [“The Assault on Truth,” September]?

When you purchase something, don’t you question the salesperson? Why then do you use such words to put down the people who are questioning the health care bills?

Are you so enamored of our government that you feel it can make no mistakes?—LeRoy Cotterill, Everett, Wash.

“The Assault on Truth” says that “the rise of the Internet and the decline of the mainstream press as a prime source of information” have put “at risk” the prospect of truly understanding the health care proposals. It is just the opposite.

The rise of the Internet is what is giving us more diverse information. We no longer have to rely on the single opinion of the mainstream press.—Daniel Ross, Campbell, Calif.

I deeply appreciate “The Assault on Truth.” So much bogus information is floating around the Internet. You have given me facts with which to refute some of the wilder notions that crop up around the coffeepot at my local fitness center.—Anne Tabb, Dallas

Hell’s bells?

Regarding “Church Bells Take Their Toll” [What an Outrage]: The Phoenix church’s bell ringing is wrong in this case. The neighbors were there first and have the right of quiet enjoyment of their property.

Freedom of religion includes the right of freedom from religion.—Manfred M. Fleischer, Oro Valley, Ariz.

We appreciate hearing from you. Write to: Bulletin Editor, Dept. RF, 601 E St. N.W., Washington, DC 20049; or e-mail to: Bulletin@aarp.org. Please include your address and phone number.