Today's letters: Speaking out works both ways

Re: Lighten up and get some skin art Jan. 11, letter

Isn't it somewhat hypocritical for Jeff Huber, the author of the letter, to tell Jim MacFarlane, the author of the Jan. 3 letter Deputies should cover tattoos, to keep his opinions to himself?

If those with tattoos are entitled to express themselves by showing them in public, shouldn't it also be the right of those who find them offensive to express their opinions in public, as well?

Why is it that in today's society the only ones expected to be "politically correct" (i.e., keeping our opinions to ourselves) are the ones with more traditional, mainstream, views and values? And when the silent majority does finally speak up, they're told they are the ones making the world miserable.

Maybe we should take a vote on it.

Barbara Newlin, Spring Hill

Re: Meeting was a good experience Jan. 11, letter

Teen's comments were welcome

The letter submitted by Bill Hense about his experience at the Hernando County Commission land-use hearing is a welcome contribution to the Times' Opinion page. Rather than being "just a teenager," I felt he displayed himself as a young adult with the comments he shared.

I hope he has further opportunities to attend future hearings, where he may find that commissioners do not always make sugar-and-spice decisions and that at times display salt-and-vinegar temperaments.

He should share his viewpoints of local government with his friends and fellow students and get involved with other issues confronting the future of Hernando County. Soon enough they will have the right to give considerate thought at the polls.

Perhaps he, or those of similar intellect, will show an interest in pursuing a career in community affairs and honor us with respectful representation.

Ronald Rae, Spring Hill

[Last modified January 12, 2008, 20:02:41]