Name of Cain’s pizza franchise is irrelevant Re: “Cain should have changed Godfather’s Pizza name,” Oct. 27
As a independent voter, I look forward to reading the diverse opinions in The Examiner. But Gregory Kane’s column, which is beneath your quality of work, left me scratching my head.
With all of the issues facing this great country, Mr. Kane focuses on the name Herman Cain chose for his pizza franchise? When I hear the word “godfather,” the thought of the mafia doesn’t even cross my mind.
This was a poor, subtle attempt to jab Cain. Many of us are tired of the petty commentary and want to hear real solutions to the problems that are facing this country.
Chris Smith
Alexandria
Free-marketers, DC Occupiers have something in common
Re: “All sides should agree: down with Big Banks,” Oct. 25
More often than not, your paper serves as a better trash liner or temporary canopy against the elements than a sincere source of news. But when faced with the choice, there’s a reason I reach for The Examiner every morning instead of your competitors.
Timothy P. Carney consistently supplies well-researched and thought-out opinions that cross the traditional ideological lines into the all-too-neglected realm of common sense not often seen here in the District. His column on Big Banks was right on mark.
Corrupt bankers should be the last thing defended by true free-marketers. They and DC Occupiers alike would do well to take this rare opportunity and finally end the state-run “public risk, private profit” game being played out in D.C.
Kellen J.W. Singleton
Homer, Alaska
More cities should adopt bird-friendly building standards
San Francisco is again taking the lead in a national issue that can serve as a model for other cities and counties. Earlier this month, the mayor signed Standards for Bird-Safe Buildings into law.
Collisions with buildings is a leading cause of bird mortality in North America, accounting for the deaths of up to 1 billion birds each year. While some jurisdictions have already taken action, many more are actively looking at ways to reduce collisions — and not just for the benefit of the birds.
San Francisco’s guidelines will save money. For example, placing patterns of small dots, or “frits,” on windows not only alerts birds to the presence of glass, it also helps reduce solar heat gain, reducing cooling costs without significantly impacting occupants’ views. And reducing unnecessary interior and exterior lighting, especially during bird migration seasons, also reduces building operating costs and energy consumption.
Americans spend about $36 billion each year on birding-related expenses, supporting some 670,000 U.S. jobs, according to federal studies. Birds are also invaluable as controllers of crop insect pests, pollinators of plants and distributors of seeds. It’s in the best interest of all cities to do what they can to protect them.
Dr. George Fenwick
President,
American Bird Conservancy
