11/24 Letters: Officer ‘spying’ on UNC Silent Sam protesters was not out of line

I would like to comment on “UNC Police spying threatens free speech” (Nov. 16). The officer working plain clothes at the demonstration did nothing that isn’t done by departments all over the country. When you are in public, you have no expectation of privacy. The officer may have misrepresented himself, but he did nothing to exacerbate the situation or entrap anyone.

I guess the author would also object to an officer being inserted in a neo-Nazi demonstration. I doubt it. If there had been a knucklehead in the event in question that caused damage or injury and no officers present to expedite any law enforcement action, the complaints would be flowing about them not doing their job.

Open tennis courts

In response to “Local tennis groups want greater access to courts at Wake County schools” (Nov. 20) about public access to tennis courts, Wake County should allow public access to the courts. What a productive use of time. Playing tennis encourages exercise, establishes teamwork and develops a healthy lifestyle. I certainly hope Wake County sees the benefits of public access tennis courts far outweighing the costs.

Additionally I was surprised to learn Wake County has not built tennis courts in over 20 years but is now considering building eight more in Southeast Raleigh when 94 courts are currently inaccessible to the public. Julie Dick, executive director of the Raleigh Tennis Association said, “Courts sitting empty when there is a high demand in Wake County for tennis just doesn’t make sense.” I couldn’t agree more.

Recognize workers

Regarding “Biggest loser in the GOP’s tax plan is ... humans” (Nov. 18): A woman described by some as “just” a paper carrier awakens at 2 a.m. seven days a week to ensure that there is a newspaper at the end of my driveway by 4 a.m. I have never met her. A man dubbed by some as “just” a farm worker labored long under searing sun to harvest the cucumber in my salad. I do not know his name. Other workers collect my trash, change the oil in my car and serve me from behind store counters. Their worth to me and to the larger community is immeasurable.

The GOP’s proposed tax bill reveals contempt for workers like these. It will kill construction jobs, move jobs offshore, punish investments that create jobs and provide huge tax savings for businesses that already mistreat workers with low pay and theft of their future. Fear in the wealthy that they can never have enough must be confronted. This bill must not pass.

Hard working men and women are not “just” laborers. They are owed good wages, supportive benefits, training and empowerment for the sweat equity they provide for this country. Good elected officials recognize this. The ones who don’t are just politicians.

This story was originally published November 23, 2017 at 6:00 PM with the headline "11/24 Letters: Officer ‘spying’ on UNC Silent Sam protesters was not out of line."