Letters to the editor - Tuesday (9-22-09)

Everyone should have such a friend

At the risk of embarrassing my good friend and neighbor, I would like to tell you a little bit about him. My husband, Wayne, and I have lived beside Joe Eagle for about 11 years. In that time he has shown us what a friend and neighbor truly is. He has shared the bounty of his wonderful garden, made us the most wonderful Christmas baskets and numerous other thoughtful things.

The one thing that touches my heart the most is this. My husband, after having several years of heart problems, has come to the point of needing a heart transplant. Being the kind of man my husband is, he continues to work full-time even though most days he doesn't really feel like it. I also work full-time as the owner of a small business, plus I look after my mother on my days off.

My husband still gives 100 percent to his job, and he is not letting this get him down, but because he does physical work, when he gets home he is very tired. Our neighbor Joe has the insight to know this, and for the past several weeks has come over to our house when we are both working and has mowed our lawn. This is no easy undertaking for him, because he also mows his own lawn plus his mother's.

Some people may not think this is a big deal, but when you have things that need to be done and can't do them, it is very frustrating, especially when no one else is willing to lend a hand. I think the true measure of a friend is someone who knows you and what you need without ever having to ask. That's our Joe. If you're ever lucky enough to have Joe as your friend, you are lucky. Thanks, friend.

— Robin Hager

Salisbury

Two murders

I am furious. It is becoming an epidemic — pregnant women are being murdered in North Carolina.

"The unborn victims of violence bill" says that when offenders knowingly murder a pregnant woman, they will be charged with two counts of murder, versus one count as is now N.C. law. It has been introduced to the legislature for the past 10 years, and the leadership of the N.C. House still refuses to allow a vote to take place, and lets this very important legislation continue to die in committee.

My heart goes out to the family of 15-year-old Tiffany Wright of Charlotte, the most recent victim of premeditated murder at 8 months pregnant, last Monday (Sept. 14).

Unfortunately, the baby died as a result of this horrific crime, but N.C. law says that only one crime of murder took place.

I strongly disagree! Two crimes were committed.

— Jeff Gerber

Monroe