Sometimes the law needs to change
This is yet another letter of outrage directed at the city of Salisbury for its attempts to justify the involuntary annexation.
I am not even in the affected area, but I still feel for those who are. Yes, we have heard the city say that it is legal. Does the law come out and say the rights of the city or the growth of the city is more important than the rights of individuals? Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is one of the most famous phrases in the U.S. Declaration of Independence. These three aspects are listed as “inalienable rights” of man. Thomas Jefferson borrowed the phrase from John Locke, who wrote of “life, liberty and estate (property).” Locke said no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty or possessions.
Sounds to me like this does not apply to the citizens of Rowan County.
Is a law good just because it exists? Here’s where we would be if some past laws had not changed:
1. We would still be paying taxes to the queen.
2. Some of us might still be slaves.
3. Your mother, sister and daughter would not have the right to vote.
4. None of us could legally enjoy a beer.
5. There would have to be four bathrooms in every public establishment.
The North Carolina law concerning the conquering of the county by the city needs to be changed, and if history repeats itself, maybe it will ó in time to stop the invasion.
One last thought: I hope the unelected representatives of the conquered will sleep well at night knowing that some people on fixed incomes will not be able to keep the homes that some spent a lifetime acquiring. Sweet dreams.
ó Hank Hoffman
Salisbury
A healthy quizz
On Tuesday at the Salisbury Mall, middle school youth tobacco prevention clubs will compete in a quiz bowl, but not just any quiz bowl. The youth will answer questions on tobacco prevention trivia. These young participants have been studying hard since January, and on Tuesday at 7 p.m., at the food court stage, they will show off their knowledge.
The participating youth are members of their schools’ tobacco prevention club: West Rowan Middle School Teens Against Tobacco, Corriher Lipe Just STOMP (Stop Tobacco On My Planet), North Rowan Middle School Mavericks Outslam Tobacco, Erwin Middle School’s Lifesavers, and the Success for a Tobacco Free life after school program participants. Please join us for this youth led event.There will be door prizes, music and guest judges from SAVE (Survivors and Victims and Tobacco Empowerment). Members of Rowan County’s Youth In Action Against Tobacco Council are hosting the quiz bowl and have planned and coordinated this event.
This event is free and open to the public. Come support your student’s school. This event and all activities of the Youth In Action Against Tobacco Council is funded by the N.C. Health & Wellness Trust Fund.
ó Lamonte Bell
Salisbury