‘Texas Miracle’ priorities; warning to smokers; help the waitstaff

‘Texas Miracle’ priorities

I just made political contributions to my new state representative and state senator. Their websites tout “sealing the border” and “gun rights” as their legislative priorities. Both are Tea Party proud.

Contributing to their campaigns does not mean support for their priorities.

It tells them they represent me, too.

Continuing the “Texas Miracle” is my first priority. That translates into finding ways to fund transportation and water infrastructure, expanding healthcare options for the uninsured and workforce development.

That might require increasing the motor fuels tax, indexing it to inflation and eliminating diversions. It might require staying out of the way of local ISDs and cities as they fund their local infrastructure needs. It certainly will involve busting the self-imposed spending cap and not reducing or eliminating key taxes.

Low taxes and generous incentives will not bring employers to Texas if we can’t offer the workforce, water, electricity, roads, schools and safe communities they need to operate their businesses profitably.

The Cromnibus bill passed by the U.S. Congress is a good example for them as they start their freshman time in Austin.

We never get all we want. Just make forward progress.

— Bill Lynch, Arlington

Warning to smokers

The recent front-page article about lung cancer screening only mentions in passing the most crucial factor in this disease, smoking.

While it’s true that some non-smokers will get lung cancer, more than 80 percent of all cases occur in people who smoke.

The most efficient and economical way to reduce the chance of death from lung cancer: Don’t smoke.

— John D. Middleton, Hurst

Help the waitstaff

Instead of paying for a stranger’s meal, why not be extra generous to the waitstaff?

They are the ones who need it, especially during the busy holidays.

I would assume most people who eat out have enough money to do so.

— Mary Hada,

North Richland Hills

This story was originally published December 15, 2014 at 5:40 PM with the headline "‘Texas Miracle’ priorities; warning to smokers; help the waitstaff."