Buying American keeps work in U.S.
``The enemy of America is not only outside our borders but also within our borders.'' This statement is a true reflection of the state of our country in the manufacturing industry today. We are beating ourselves. Americans have looked solely at the price of goods (small and large appliances, toys, consumables) and not where they are manufactured.
In today's economy we are funding communism. Let me say that again, we are funding communism. Next time you go shopping for a small appliance, hand tool or toy, look where it is manufactured: China - the only large communist superpower remaining, and we are funding its growth by allowing our manufacturing to die out in this country and migrate to their country. Working-class people are losing employment, companies are closing.
Why is this happening? Greed! Large, multinational corporations want to make more money. But at whose expense? The average working-class American.
After Sept 11 and in the spirit of patriotism I wanted to purchase a flag for my car. While shopping in Wal-Mart I happened on a new delivery. I decided to see where the part was made. Larger than life, the sticker said ``Made in China.'' I was indignant. I could not possibly purchase a U.S. flag made in another country.
We as Americans are compelled by some psychological force to look to the government for a bailout. It is time Americans at the grass-roots level take responsibility for ourselves. To change the environment we must change one by one. Stop purchasing items made in communist countries. China has more than 1 billion people. It has outlined a plan to take over manufacturing in the world. And it is doing it with our permission.
The bottom line is, if our government is not going to protect us, we need to protect ourselves. It has to be a grass-roots effort and it has to hurt these companies in the only place they understand, the pocketbook. So I say, let the slogan ring out: ``Fight communism - buy American.''
David Whatley
Anglo American Molds Inc.
Louisville, Ky.
Proper vinyl disposal is matter of method
Your March 18 [Page 1] story ``Electronics to carry fee for recycling'' reports that the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition and Californians Against Waste have problems with plastic waste, in particular burning and disposal of vinyl.
As most of your readers probably know, vinyl and other plastics can be disposed of safely and effectively like any other municipal or construction waste in conventional facilities.
These materials can also be - are being - recycled.
Plastics should not be disposed of in open burn barrels. Nor should any other material.
Open burning of anything creates all manner of pollutants.
As noted above, these points are probably well-known to most of your readers, although they may be news to the Toxics Coalition or Californians Against Waste.
Tim Burns
Vinyl Institute
Arlington, Va.
