Over the past seven months, I have listened to thousands of complaints filed against Governor McCrory and the Republican legislature. And it seems to me, the people objecting, those who have time on a Monday afternoon to be arrested for illegally protesting, should hear from the hard-working North Carolinians who believe Governor McCrory is doing what is right for North Carolina and doing what the majority of North Carolinians elected him to do: govern.
When Governor McCrory took office, our state was headed in a horrible direction. Years of Democratic leadership had hindered our state both in businesses and in our personal finances. But with the new tax bill, the personal income tax plummets from 7.75 percent to 5.75 percent by 2015. The corporate tax rate will be slashed from 6.9 percent to 5 percent, and in even better news the state’s death tax will be completely eliminated. Our state will jump from 44th to 17th in the state business tax climate index. My hard-earned money will be kept in my pocket, not the government’s.
And one more thing, let’s get real on education. Quit believing the fabrications fed to you by the NCAE. The total amount of money spent on education is $7.9 billion — up $400 million over last year’s appropriation. North Carolina’s total budget is $20.6 billion, making education the state’s No. 1 priority and almost half of our state’s budget! Our education spending is being prioritized by this government and by our governor.
In November 2012, North Carolinians voted for change. They voted for our leaders to make hard choices. Governor McCrory, Speaker Tillis and even Senate Pro-Tem Berger never said it would be easy, but that it would take hard work. I appreciate them willing to make tough decisions to make this state more prosperous for posterity.
— Dale Edwards

Salisbury
At least six days a week my husband and I walk the wonderful trails and paths at Salisbury Community Park. And every Monday we observe the hard-working staff at that park pick up endless amounts of discarded trash from the weekend. It’s in the parking lots, around the lake and strewn around all the soccer and ball fields. We continue to be amazed at others’ total lack of ownership for their garbage. There are countless trash containers throughout this wonderful park. If parents can’t set the example, couldn’t the coaches at least extend a reminder to all their teams to pick up after themselves? Come on folks, we’re better than this, aren’t we?
— Bonnie Moore

Salisbury

For many years my bucket list has included standing on the hallowed grounds of Normandy. I plan on the visit next year. I read Dennis Hill’s July 29 story in the Post and knew this is what I have dreamed to do. I have only respect for our men who climbed the hills under what can only be described as a living hell. Thank you, Dr. Hill, for so emotionally describing what you saw and felt. It brought tears to my eyes as I am sure it did to others and our survivors still with us. Bless them.
— Grant Eagle

Concord