Where’s the logic?
To the editor:
The statement, “Or might it be that they think we, the people, are idiots with the memory of a 1977-issue Radio Shack TRS-80?”, made me think of one possible problem [“Random Thoughts,” March 9]. The problem is that it is almost impossible for anyone to remember the history of all existing taxes. For example, there are several different property taxes for schools—all with different millage rates. It is hard to determine when they were passed and when they will end. Maybe it should be made a law that whenever any new tax is proposed, all related taxes [including amounts and history] have to be listed on the tax proposition. Maybe this would help my memory, which is actually older than a TRS-80!
Posted by Phil
To the editor:
Since the dawn of time, politicians have thrown out sound bytes they believe will make them look good. And then they forget. In truth, many, if not most, politicians have no clue when it comes to offering real solutions to complicated problems.
In [Superintendent of Education Paul] Pastorek’s case, saying the state couldn’t afford to cover the cost for national certification stipends would have been much more prudent than debunking the worth of the certification itself. As it is, he has shown that his position on such matters blows whatever direction the political wind takes it. And it makes me question whether he is willing to stand behind what it takes, popular or not, to turn our educational system around.
Posted by lsuman
Mom entrepreneur
To the editor:
I loved Maggie Richardson’s article about mom entrepreneurs [“Women in Business,” March 23]. I joined this wonderful trend as a work-from-home mom last year, and I am loving the newfound freedom and excitement of owning my own business. I’m still a very busy mom, but I’ve finally found that work-life balance I’ve been hungering for. The rise of social media has really helped me to learn from others. I participate in a weekly Twitter chat for “Solo PR” pros, and I’ve developed many friendships all over the world.
Amy Nolan, Nolan Communications
Cash or credit?
To the editor:
I am writing in regards to a very important issue currently affecting my family business and other small businesses throughout the state. Credit cards have become one of the most popular forms of payment during transactions between our business and customers [“Cuts like a knife,” March 23]. What many customers don’t realize is that every time they swipe their credit card when paying for a good or service, the business is charged a transaction, or interchange, fee. This adds on to the fees and rates the customers already pay.
As the owner of K.G.’s Custom Jewelry & Export Restoration, I can tell you that about one-third of our transactions involve credit-card usage. In recent months, we have paid, on average, $500 to $1,000 in transaction fees, depending on sales. The months of December and February are especially problematic in this regard since holiday shoppers often rely on credit.
Another aspect that is problematic to our continued success is the associated costs with credit-card transactions. I recently had to add a new phone line in the store exclusively for the credit-card machine. These gradual costs are affecting our business dramatically.
We would like to avoid raising costs on products for our customers. Therefore, we are asking the people of Louisiana to support small business in any way they possibly can, whether by using cash instead of credit cards or even calling state representatives to address the issue.
K.G. Moudafian, Baton Rouge
