I read in the News Journal the negative reaction of many when Gov. Rick Scott announced all welfare recipients would be drug tested. Why not? If they are drug free, there is nothing to be disturbed about. If so, then the taxpayer should not be responsible for supporting their habit. I also feel strongly about unwed mothers who have three and four children and are on welfare. Florida should do as a few other states do. The first child is an accident and they are eligible for welfare. The second, third or even fourth should be supported by the father/fathers. The proud daddy or daddies should be responsible for support of these children. There are ways to prevent unplanned pregnancies, and the education for use is readily available in many organizations. Try the health department. There is an old expression, which seems appropriate: "If you want to dance, pay the fiddler." Give the daddies the bragging right and have them support their child. Marie D. Wallo Pensacola [end]
The article on the death of an inmate in the Escambia County jail leaves me with a few questions for jail authorities ("Man charged in jail death," Jan. 8). First, why did the guard not hear any commotion in the cell during the fight? He should have investigated any unusual activity; no fight is that silent. Second, why was a non-violent prisoner placed in a cell with violent prisoners or second offenders? Johnny's problem was drugs. He was never involved in robbery, murder or even vicious assault. It was rumored that prisoners were to be separated into violent and non-violent categories. [continues 106 words]
The letter "Difficult seeing Mayfair decline" (Dec. 10) mentioned what a nice development the Mayfair subdivision was when the writer came here more than 40 years ago. Ditto. Mayfair was a home for many retired Navy officers and working people. You could ride a bike without being mugged. You did not need a Doberman for protection, or to lock your doors the minute it turned dark. We were proud of our homes with manicured yards and flowers. It was an enjoyable place to live. [continues 123 words]
