Reckless drivers on Modesto roads impact public safety for everyone | Opinion
Dangerous roads
“Man walking on rural road near Modesto struck and killed by motorist,” (modbee.com, Oct. 19)
Traffic in Modesto has increased over the years, which is to be expected. What should not be expected, however, is the sharp rise in the number of reckless drivers on our roads. According to a study referenced in a recent Bee article, Modesto ranks next to last — among other cities of equal size — in the number of vehicle accidents.
The increase in damage, injuries and fatalities must be addressed with greater urgency so that this livable city can be safer. Virtually every day, I see drivers running red lights or stop signs, as well as failing to give pedestrians the right-of-way. I will leave the solutions up to law enforcement and policy makers on how best to address this dangerous problem.
Salvatore Salerno
Modesto
Protect natural wonders
“Republicans hope the chaos of recent weeks will become a distant memory in next year’s elections,” (modbee.com, Oct. 27)
The unbridled love of power and boundless monetary gains that are now at the vortex of Republican politics is a shameful divergence from a once dynamic ethic of place. I have enjoyed the grandeur of the Grand Tetons, their breathtaking majesty and wilderness, the tranquility of Oxbow Bend as a refreshing resource and the serenity of Phelps Lake because of the understanding of the Rockefeller family and their sense of responsibility to share their wealth through conservation.
Now, the vision that drives the GOP is one that robs us of national beauty by cutting preserves and spoiling sacred lands as Donald Trump’s attempt to lessen the area of the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah exemplifies. Yet, what we must remember and strive to protect is what Terry Tempest Williams asserts: “The nature of our national parks is bound to the nature of our own humility, our capacity to stay open and curious in a world that instead beckons closure through fear.”
Fear eliminates humanity and wisdom.
Tim Buchanan
Opinion
Modesto
Courageous acts
“Severe heat waves, longer drought among climate impacts expected in Stanislaus County,” (modbee.com, Aug. 13)
It’s hard to fathom how a harmless gas could risk the future of our children. It’s hard to fathom anything we could do — except, perhaps, nuclear war — could make that big of a dent. But, I think, it’s dawning on us now. We can have such an effect — and we do.
To avoid tipping points (assuming we aren’t tipping already), we must, please, act fast. The world our kids inhabit depends on common sense legislation to wean ourselves off of climate warming products and activities. Thank you for your courage.
Des Orsinelli
Ripon
Israel’s right to exist
“Diplomacy to pause fighting and ease siege intensifies as Israeli ground troops advance on Gaza City,” (fresnobee.com, Nov. 1)
I’ve read with sadness and dismay the reaction to Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israelis: the murders, rapes, beheadings and outright butcheries. Yet, many, including student organizations, the news media and now the United Nations Secretary-General, hold the opinion that Israel had it coming. They say the current conflict requires “context.” But there is no context for what Hamas did. It was completely immoral and evil.
For those who want context, here it is: Hamas’ charter explicitly calls for the destruction of Israel and the elimination of the Jewish people. They don’t want peace; they want Israel extinguished. Israel’s efforts to defend itself against another liquidation are belittled and denounced, and Jews throughout the world live in uncertainty.
Everyone who has condoned Hamas’ attacks needs to realize that Israel has a right to exist, and its people have a right to live in peace, free of Hamas and all other terrorist threats.
Larry Parmeter
Fresno
Do something!
“More than 1,000 pay tribute to Maine’s mass shooting victims on day of prayer, reflection on tragedy,” (sacbee.com, Oct. 30)
Maine is looking for answers to the recent gun massacre. Well, they should look no further: There are about 400,000,000 guns in the U.S., and apparently no way to keep them out of the hands of the wrong people. It’s as simple as that! Any questions?
The state of 1.3 million people were “stunned” at what happened. Why? Gun violence is a cancer in America and it will continue to spread if left unchecked. No community is safe. It’s good that Maine’s Department of Public Safety is opening a center to offer help and support for victims. But would it be too much to ask that within the center there be a spot set aside for concerned citizens to gather and draft letters demanding that their senators and congressmen do something?
I recently saw a bumper sticker that said “Thoughts and prayers aren’t bullet-proof.” Amen!
Joseph F Grady
Placerville
