Liberals, conservatives need united fight for liberty

It figures that BIG media is making a “Where’s Waldo” story out of John Snowden’s NSA (National Security Agency) leak case.

I mean, why concentrate on the big story of our Government spying on us illegally, when the dumb Americans would prefer an exciting “chase” sequence.

And where are the “liberals” of my youth (‘68-69), who would have been incensed about this intrusion into our privacy? 

Are they all part of the cozy nexus of Big Government, Big Media and Big Business?  

For once, the libs and conservatives ought to be united making the case that our government is totally out of control. 

No matter what political bent, we should heed the warning of our Founding Fathers: “If you trade your liberty for security, you end up with neither.”

Bele Chere continuation backed, but only with big changes

This past March, Asheville City Council members discussed and agreed that the Bele Chere festival shall no longer be funded by the city. In fact, this will be the last year that the city takes on the $450,000 price tag.

Many not-for-profit agencies are to be thanked for helping with this year’s festival. In fact, private-sector donations defrayed much of the cost that the city was looking to save.

Mayor (Terry) Bellamy said residents are to look to the community for support and solutions to the Bele Chere dilemma in the future.

It was suggested that an Economic Development Force committee be substituted for the Parks and Recreation’s involvement in the festivities. Partnerships and grant money is what is to be used lieu of the city’s participation. Citizens are encouraged to look for outside sources, even other cities and towns in surrounding areas.

Prior to this decision, there had been rumors that the location of the fair may be changed. This talk went on for some time. Hearing about cuts and relocation is one thing. Realizing that the city has backed out on us could mean changes on all different levels. People are upset and don’t want change.

Now I love Bele Chere just as well as the next Ashevillian. However, I couldn’t have agreed more that there should be significant changes concerning the yearly celebration. Here’s why: Drawing such large crowds, Asheville is vulnerable for criminal activity on a large scale. At the heart of downtown are the courthouse, magistrate and jail house, City Hall, Board of Elections, which could succumb to terrorist-like behavior.

In the wake of so many recent tragedies, including the Boston bombings, I’m surprised we didn’t find the money to secure armored vehicles.It’s been estimated that Bele Chere rolls in about 300,000 attendees a year. The number of tourists here for the three-day gala does not include the already 84,458 residents within Asheville.

If Bele Chere was moved to another location, it would be fine with me and, I believe, safer.

Assistance from other municipalities and maybe even a new setup/design will help keep the festival running smoothly and adjust for safety cautions (new entrance ways/barriors/surveillance).

Fresh perspectives and new subdivisions will keep the ever-growing festival alive. Having outside help will keep the street party safe and secure for more generations to come.

I think the “Beautiful City” should welcome any changes to its benefit.