I was greatly disheartened to read about the reaction of the community to a group home for veterans in Spencer. It seems the more things change, the more they stay the same.
When I returned from Vietnam, soldiers were first attacked and then basically shunned. We were told for our own safety not to wear our uniforms. There was no welcome, and no assistance from the commmunity. We were seen and treated as criminals, an undesirable presence in the community.
Today, however, there seems to be a different mindset. Soldiers are given welcomes, the flag is waved and special events are planned. It seemed we have learned from the lessons of Vietnam. Then I read about Spencer and its reaction to a home for veterans.
It is so easy to give lip service, wave a flag and make a declaration of support for the troops. That is, it’s easy until they’re in your neighborhood. Then these vets go from returning hero to a menace who will bring down property values.
I am reminded of two quotes from Shakespeare:
“O, what may man within him hide, though angel on the outward side.” (“Measure for Measure”)
The second, “Blow, blow thou winter wind, thou art not so unkind, as man’s ingratitude.” (“As You Like It”)
I don’t know which is crueler, the reaction we got after Vietnam, or the false reception the current generation of soldiers are receiving, at least in Spencer.
— David E. Beck
Salisbury

Regarding the dismissal of the food store employee who was rude to Governor McCrory:
As a retail worker for over 40 years, I believe the retail maxim “the customer is always right” holds true. If you’re going to run your mouth at work, be prepared for the consequences. You cannot be rude to your customers. It is just good business practice, and if you don’t understand that, you do not belong in retail. Free speech? Oh, come on.
— Neil Nurisso
Salisbury
Why is the price of gasoline and propane higher in Salisbury than in other places? I guess the rich want to get richer.
— Charles Black
Salisbury