Margo Pierce, as she always does, wrote a fair and balanced (shades of the Fox Network) cover story, ¨Ruling Class (issue of April 23). She brought in three expert points of view -- Dan La Botz, Bill Woods and Michael Weissbuch -- which is a big improvement over a typical ¨on the one hand then on the other piece.
OK, I wouldnt be writing if I didnt have a fourth point of view: Im noticing the irony that many folks who want to be lenient with illegal immigrants are the same as those who think big corporations are to be feared.
The problem isnt with illegal immigrants. Its with the misguided welfare programs that attract them. Likewise, the problem isnt with big corporations. Its with government granting favors that are sought by big corporations.
If we had peaceful anarchy rather than government, we wouldnt be wasting our time with discussions like this. Wed instead, to quote Garrison Keillor, individually rise up and do what needs to be done -- not newsworthy, but more expeditious.
-- David E. Gallaher, Over-the-Rhine
Only the Lonely
I read Larry Gross' "She Was Somebody" (issue of April 23) Living Out Loud column last night, and ever since reading it I can't get it out of my mind.
I think all of us know somebody like his friend, somebody you try to get close to but they want to keep a distance and really not let anybody in.
What makes me sad is Gross' friend somehow wanted to better herself and have a creative life but never did. Something always stopped her.
That night he spent with her tells the reader how truly lonely she was. I can't help but ask: Did she ever really tell Gross why she didn't become that "somebody" she said she wanted to be?
In any case, it was a good story, a moving story and I thank you for publishing it.
-- Phil Johnson, Mount Lookout
Didn't See That Coming
I've been reading the Living Out Loud column for many years, and I'm glad it's now in the paper every week. The writers usually give a person something to think about -- and Larry Gross' latest is no exception ("She Was Somebody," issue of April 23).
I have to admit I didn't see the ending coming on this one. After reading it again, it kind of made sense.
I think for 30 years Gross wanted to be with this person in a special way, and time really doesn't wait for anybody, you know? He was lucky to be with her in a meaningful way at least one last time.
I don't think I would have done it any differently.
-- Loretta Jones, Western Hills
