Columbia’s downtown on verge of improvement

In a few weeks, General Growth Properties will present its plan for the redevelopment of Columbia’s downtown to the county for approval. (“General Growth Properties has new vision for Columbia,” July 20) Most of us who have seen the exhibit at the Spear Center are impressed by the thought, research, talent and effort GGP has invested to give downtown what it has sadly lacked for so long.

GGP has clearly listened to Columbia and Howard County and clearly understands our needs. Yet, there are still some who express fears; fears of new residents and traffic. But we have needed more people downtown to bring life there. There are fears that Symphony Woods will be destroyed when the reality is Symphony Woods, its trees and its plantings are already in poor condition. This plan will restore its health. Some forget the increased revenue that will come to the county and to the Columbia Association.

Finally, there are still those who seem to fear that GGP will make some money on the project. GGP will spend hundreds of millions of dollars on each phase of the development, and hopefully it will profit. Those who raise this fear again seem to not remember that Jim Rouse developed Columbia to financially profit, as well as to accomplish the other goals that we all justifiably remember and revere him for. Let us work positively with GGP so our city and our county can finally have the downtown and amenities it deserves.

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Emily Lincoln

Columbia

Don’t put America up for sale

Sparrows Point was sold to a Russian firm, the Chrysler Building in New York was sold to the Arabs, and Anheuser-Busch was sold to a Belgium company. (“InBev snags Anheuser-Busch and its marketing clout,” July 14) The Japanese have bought out many American businesses, and China is rigorously looking for a foothold in American manufacturing. It will be a sad day when the White House goes for 10 percent off!

Buz Gardner

Baltimore

Sen. Jesse Helms will be deeply missed

As I sadly read of the passing of Sen. Jesse Helms, R-N.C., on Independence Day, I recalled him as a dear, personal friend. He was the champion of the school prayer movement and other conservative causes. (“Family, admirers lay former Sen. Helms to rest,” July 8)

On March 9, 1970, on his WRAL-TV “Viewpoint” television program, he promoted The Asbury Resolution on voluntary prayer in public schools. I had presented this earlier before the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. His promotion led to the resolution being adopted by the convention.

As is well known, Helms continued his support for school prayer while serving as a senator.

I have such fond memories of the cordial visits I had with Mr. Helms in Washington, D.C. He was a dedicated Christian, Southern Baptist and leader, both nationally and internationally. He will be deeply missed. But his wonderful Christian spirit and his steadfast, uncompromising life and leadership will be forever remembered. My prayers are for God’s abiding comfort to be with his beloved family and friends everywhere.

The Rev. Claud L. Asbury

Ellicott City