Letters to the Editor 01-31-2003
July 28, 2016 at 4:25 p.m.
By -
- American Dream - Tired Of 'Tired Of ...' - Military Spending - Let's Get Real - They're People, Too - Accident Victim - In A Corner - Cell Phones
American Dream
Editor, Times-Union:Felipe Lopez died Monday, Jan. 27.
He came to the U.S. in 1965. He realized the "American Dream": obtained freedom, achieved freedom of religion; sought the American opportunities and enabled his family, sons and daughter, to achieve the "American Dream," to have freedom of religion and seek the opportunities - eldest son a colonel in the U.S. army, stationed in Germany; daughter an educator in the Warsaw area; youngest son an engineer in Tampa, Fla.
He saw his children have children and mix into the "true American melting pot."
Juan J. Lopez
Warsaw
Tired Of 'Tired Of ...'
Editor, Times-Union:This is in response to the letter published on 1-21-2003 titled "Tired Of ..." I'm not sure what the purpose was. As I read through it, I literally laughed in disgust. I saw some very valid points, as I'm sure everyone that read this particular article found at least one item they were tired of too. After all, I came up with a rough estimate of 28 complaints throughout the entire article. How inappropriate, especially in the world we live in today! Do people in this community really want to read this kind of stuff?
I read through the paper every night when I get home from work or school. I am amazed on a weekly basis by the some of the articles written in the Letters to the Editor. Some people in this town miss the whole picture and purpose of life! If I was so "tired" of life one morning, I think I would just call into work and take a mental sick day.
I found a little something I'd like to share with the author of this article. It's what I think of when I'm feeling overwhelmed with the world.
Remember the song written in the late 1980s, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Just in case you don't, I will refresh your memory. If I meet you someday on the street, I will stop and sing it for you.
"Here's a little song I wrote. You might want to sing it note for note.
"Don't worry - be happy. In every life we have some trouble. But when you worry you make it double.
"Don't worry - be happy. Ain't got no place to lay your head, somebody came and took your bed.
"Don't worry, be happy. The landlord say your rent is late, he may have to litigate.
"Don't worry - be happy. Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style, ain't got no gal to make you smile.
"Don't worry - be happy. "'Cause when you worry your face will frown and that will bring everybody down.
"Don't worry - be happy."
Yes, we all get tired of daily life especially as Christians ... but we are very fortunate to live in this community. The economy is wonderful, the town is clean, the people living in the community care about one another and being a resident all my life ... it's like we are all one big family. I know we live in rural Indiana, but I give Warsaw two thumbs up! I'm proud to live here. I feel very blessed. Letters like "Tired Of" really drag people down. I would much rather read letters like the letter written a few weeks ago about Monteith Tire. That is something we need more of in the community. People like Ray, and his employees at Monteith.
Also, a little advice to you ... watch the movie "Pay It Forward." No, the language isn't unbearable. Yes, it has a good plot. You might be a little hesitant, though, because I'm sure Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey got a few million out of the whole deal.
Well, I think I feel a little better now. I just hated to see someone so unhappy. I hope I brought a new perspective to the table.
Julie Wilhite
Warsaw
via e-mail
Military Spending
Editor, Times-Union:As President Bush races toward war on Iraq and more tax cuts for the wealthy, the federal government has already shown it is not helping the 10 percent of families in Indiana living in poverty or the 12 percent of children in Indiana who have no health insurance.
The federal government matters to our state. It alone contributes 21 percent to our state budget, according to a recent report by the National Priorities Project. These federal tax dollars help pay for programs important to Indiana residents such as schools, public assistance and transportation. We need this support more than ever as the noose tightens on our own state budget.
But right now our national leaders aim to ensure the health of only one agency: the Pentagon. According to the National Priorities Project, the Bush Administration proposed a $46 billion increase in military spending for 2003. This whopping 11 percent increase in the military budget comes at the same time that we are cutting back job training programs that could help workers find better jobs, as well as fuel assistance for low-income elders.
Is throwing all this money at the Pentagon buying us a safer America? It sure doesn't look like it. Even before Sept. 11, the U.S. spent 2-1/2 times more on the military than all its competitors and adversaries combined, including Iraq, North Korea, Russia and China.
The one thing we know for certain is that money spent unwisely on the military and ill-advised tax cuts cost us the money we need for people here at home. Our leaders must get it right.
Jeffrey Garrett
North Manchester
Let's Get Real
Editor, Times-Union:The straw that broke the camel's back. I read the letter from Julie Shearer, and that was all I could take! I can't take it no more! Ever notice that no women ever complain about a guy in shorts no shirt in the paper, but put a girl in shorts and look out, it's So SO offensive! But put a guy or guys in the same pic the same way, nothing's said! Because that's OK! A double standard of narrow minded people here, let's get real here, people, and another thing.
The lights in Webster. Everyone has complained about Sam's lights yet they are legal, but no one has complained about the (other) one! No! The cell tower that flashes a white light at night to the best of my knowledge that's ... a danger to motorists that should turn red at dusk till dawn! But has anyone said anything? No! Because it's Sam's light, look out, he cann't do that, a double standard.
And another thing that gets me: first let me state for the record I am not a racist, by NO means, I judge no man or woman by the color of their skin but by their actions as Mister King says! Let's get real, if you had a Miss White America, or a White History Month! Look out! Duck and cover, that's a racist thing! I'm just tired of the double standards around here! I know this will fire up some people, but I hope it makes them think too of how narrow minded they are.
And another thing about the play the kids at the high school did. Give me a break. One person to my knowledge objected, give me a break, this is the real world. Because I object to some articles in the paper does that mean close the paper down! Let's get real, people! Mister Editor and people reading this, these are my views and not the ones of the paper. I could go on and on on the subject, it's time to not be so politically correct here and get real on all! Not just what you think at the time to be fair! Think about this. America was founded on the idea of freedom, so don't be so narrow-minded and simpletons! Thank you.
Charles P. Murphy
Warsaw, via e-mail
They're People, Too
Editor, Times-Union:I'm writing this hoping it will get put in the paper. Guess you might, I'm speaking out for these people. I've worked in the medical field for 38 years now. I've found it very rewarding. I've worked with the elderly, I've done private duty, I've worked with people that are mentally challenged.
I've always thought as life went on it would get better, but it doesn't.
This happened in one of our stores. This elderly lady was shopping, some young people bumped into her. They never stopped to make sure she was OK, or never even said "excuse me." This could have been their grandma. Think about it, people. Someday you are going to be old also.
Then there was a group of developmentally disabled from a group home. There was one that yelled, "There she is." I went over and gave him a hug and was talking with them. People just went by and stared and laughed and pointed. The people are human, not animals. They are just you and me. They have a very special gift of love for everyone. They like to shop and go out to eat just like everyone else. Let's treat them like human beings when we see them in public. They would love to have you talk to them.
Hey, everyone, these people need help also. They are a great bunch of people to know. Stop by the Cambridge House (formerly Prairie View) to visit. They would love to have you. So, before you all go judging them, go visit.
Think how you would feel, if it was a member of your family.
Rita Sexton
Burket
Accident Victim
Editor, Times-Union:On behalf of my daughter, Marissa Gadson, I would like to thank all of "our" friends as well as those of you we do not know in Warsaw for all the prayers, cards and e-mails that have been showered upon Marissa since her car accident on Jan. 17th. The close calls many of us have had with semis became a reality for her when she was rear-ended by one at 55 mph while waiting to turn into her driveway. Only by the grace of God is she still with us today and she knows He must have big plans for her. She is a strong young lady and with God's help has every intention of making a full recovery despite her injuries, which included a broken neck, multiple broken ribs and a punctured lung. After spending days in ICU and then surgery to fuse her broken neck she is now at home taking one day at a time. Although we moved away from Warsaw almost six years ago, the outpouring of love and prayer from our hometown has been absolutely overwhelming.
Thank you again ... and God bless.
Marissa Gadson
Charles and Janet Lentz
Mt. Pleasant, N.C.
via e-mail
In A Corner
Editor, Times-Union:In regard to the war in the Middle East:
Looks like our president has backed himself in a corner. He is dealing with an evil force that he could easily get this world in trouble.
Saddam Hussein is controlled by the God of this world and far more subtle than we might believe. It seems he has stalled until now with the United Nations inspectors until we have amassed a great army in that part of the world. I do not believe they want to match forces with us militarily but their aim is to bankrupt this country.
Since the bombings of the buildings in New York and Washington, D.C., just consider the airlines that have filed bankruptcy or are in financial trouble. How many young men have left their families by activating the National Guard Reserve forces?
We have come to the point it is either fight or back off.
I still believe the main objective of the religion of Islam is to bring the other religions under their control.
I read in the news that the funds put aside for trust for the poor is already exhausted and they are looking to the federal government for help. How long can we as a people survive financially? Here are the wars and rumors of wars. But Christ said the end is not yet.
The church world as a whole is fulfilled Matthew 25. God's spiritual kingdoms are the sleeping virgins. We need to get our spiritual eyes open. For now is our salvation, nearer than when we first believed.
Think about it.
Pastor Ralph Dotson
Silver Lake
Cell Phones
Editor, Times-Union:With much recent discussion regarding legislation against talking on cell phones while driving, if this is to be, it should include all devices. This includes changing CDs and/or diskettes. All two-way radios: county vehicles (snow plows with 10-foot blades and 10- to 15-ton payload); school buses (some 40 to 50 children on board without seat belts); contractor vehicles; CB radios (30+ ton GVW without seatbelts), to name a few. Do not dismiss police vehicles. Two officers collided in Elkhart because they were listening to their radios to determine the location of the "villain," and did not pay attention to their locations. This resulted in two city vehicles damaged, one officer hurt and one killed.
In addition, no more eating while driving. (Fast food facilities can provide areas to park to eat.) No smoking, maps, books, TVs in conversion vans or applying makeup. No more EMS ambulance drivers talking and driving. All vehicle manufacturers can eliminate their satellite systems for emergency and location benefits.
If cell phones go, so should all distracting devices. If not, we'd only be catering to some lobby group that wishes to sell more equipment/accessories for telephones. This would not do anything to improve safety. If we are to do something, then do everything. Do it right. Unlike seat belt laws, include everyone. Not just some select few. Whatever else is considered, include all two-way communication.
Dennis Lundgren
Warsaw
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- American Dream - Tired Of 'Tired Of ...' - Military Spending - Let's Get Real - They're People, Too - Accident Victim - In A Corner - Cell Phones
American Dream
Editor, Times-Union:Felipe Lopez died Monday, Jan. 27.
He came to the U.S. in 1965. He realized the "American Dream": obtained freedom, achieved freedom of religion; sought the American opportunities and enabled his family, sons and daughter, to achieve the "American Dream," to have freedom of religion and seek the opportunities - eldest son a colonel in the U.S. army, stationed in Germany; daughter an educator in the Warsaw area; youngest son an engineer in Tampa, Fla.
He saw his children have children and mix into the "true American melting pot."
Juan J. Lopez
Warsaw
Tired Of 'Tired Of ...'
Editor, Times-Union:This is in response to the letter published on 1-21-2003 titled "Tired Of ..." I'm not sure what the purpose was. As I read through it, I literally laughed in disgust. I saw some very valid points, as I'm sure everyone that read this particular article found at least one item they were tired of too. After all, I came up with a rough estimate of 28 complaints throughout the entire article. How inappropriate, especially in the world we live in today! Do people in this community really want to read this kind of stuff?
I read through the paper every night when I get home from work or school. I am amazed on a weekly basis by the some of the articles written in the Letters to the Editor. Some people in this town miss the whole picture and purpose of life! If I was so "tired" of life one morning, I think I would just call into work and take a mental sick day.
I found a little something I'd like to share with the author of this article. It's what I think of when I'm feeling overwhelmed with the world.
Remember the song written in the late 1980s, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Just in case you don't, I will refresh your memory. If I meet you someday on the street, I will stop and sing it for you.
"Here's a little song I wrote. You might want to sing it note for note.
"Don't worry - be happy. In every life we have some trouble. But when you worry you make it double.
"Don't worry - be happy. Ain't got no place to lay your head, somebody came and took your bed.
"Don't worry, be happy. The landlord say your rent is late, he may have to litigate.
"Don't worry - be happy. Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style, ain't got no gal to make you smile.
"Don't worry - be happy. "'Cause when you worry your face will frown and that will bring everybody down.
"Don't worry - be happy."
Yes, we all get tired of daily life especially as Christians ... but we are very fortunate to live in this community. The economy is wonderful, the town is clean, the people living in the community care about one another and being a resident all my life ... it's like we are all one big family. I know we live in rural Indiana, but I give Warsaw two thumbs up! I'm proud to live here. I feel very blessed. Letters like "Tired Of" really drag people down. I would much rather read letters like the letter written a few weeks ago about Monteith Tire. That is something we need more of in the community. People like Ray, and his employees at Monteith.
Also, a little advice to you ... watch the movie "Pay It Forward." No, the language isn't unbearable. Yes, it has a good plot. You might be a little hesitant, though, because I'm sure Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey got a few million out of the whole deal.
Well, I think I feel a little better now. I just hated to see someone so unhappy. I hope I brought a new perspective to the table.
Julie Wilhite
Warsaw
via e-mail
Military Spending
Editor, Times-Union:As President Bush races toward war on Iraq and more tax cuts for the wealthy, the federal government has already shown it is not helping the 10 percent of families in Indiana living in poverty or the 12 percent of children in Indiana who have no health insurance.
The federal government matters to our state. It alone contributes 21 percent to our state budget, according to a recent report by the National Priorities Project. These federal tax dollars help pay for programs important to Indiana residents such as schools, public assistance and transportation. We need this support more than ever as the noose tightens on our own state budget.
But right now our national leaders aim to ensure the health of only one agency: the Pentagon. According to the National Priorities Project, the Bush Administration proposed a $46 billion increase in military spending for 2003. This whopping 11 percent increase in the military budget comes at the same time that we are cutting back job training programs that could help workers find better jobs, as well as fuel assistance for low-income elders.
Is throwing all this money at the Pentagon buying us a safer America? It sure doesn't look like it. Even before Sept. 11, the U.S. spent 2-1/2 times more on the military than all its competitors and adversaries combined, including Iraq, North Korea, Russia and China.
The one thing we know for certain is that money spent unwisely on the military and ill-advised tax cuts cost us the money we need for people here at home. Our leaders must get it right.
Jeffrey Garrett
North Manchester
Let's Get Real
Editor, Times-Union:The straw that broke the camel's back. I read the letter from Julie Shearer, and that was all I could take! I can't take it no more! Ever notice that no women ever complain about a guy in shorts no shirt in the paper, but put a girl in shorts and look out, it's So SO offensive! But put a guy or guys in the same pic the same way, nothing's said! Because that's OK! A double standard of narrow minded people here, let's get real here, people, and another thing.
The lights in Webster. Everyone has complained about Sam's lights yet they are legal, but no one has complained about the (other) one! No! The cell tower that flashes a white light at night to the best of my knowledge that's ... a danger to motorists that should turn red at dusk till dawn! But has anyone said anything? No! Because it's Sam's light, look out, he cann't do that, a double standard.
And another thing that gets me: first let me state for the record I am not a racist, by NO means, I judge no man or woman by the color of their skin but by their actions as Mister King says! Let's get real, if you had a Miss White America, or a White History Month! Look out! Duck and cover, that's a racist thing! I'm just tired of the double standards around here! I know this will fire up some people, but I hope it makes them think too of how narrow minded they are.
And another thing about the play the kids at the high school did. Give me a break. One person to my knowledge objected, give me a break, this is the real world. Because I object to some articles in the paper does that mean close the paper down! Let's get real, people! Mister Editor and people reading this, these are my views and not the ones of the paper. I could go on and on on the subject, it's time to not be so politically correct here and get real on all! Not just what you think at the time to be fair! Think about this. America was founded on the idea of freedom, so don't be so narrow-minded and simpletons! Thank you.
Charles P. Murphy
Warsaw, via e-mail
They're People, Too
Editor, Times-Union:I'm writing this hoping it will get put in the paper. Guess you might, I'm speaking out for these people. I've worked in the medical field for 38 years now. I've found it very rewarding. I've worked with the elderly, I've done private duty, I've worked with people that are mentally challenged.
I've always thought as life went on it would get better, but it doesn't.
This happened in one of our stores. This elderly lady was shopping, some young people bumped into her. They never stopped to make sure she was OK, or never even said "excuse me." This could have been their grandma. Think about it, people. Someday you are going to be old also.
Then there was a group of developmentally disabled from a group home. There was one that yelled, "There she is." I went over and gave him a hug and was talking with them. People just went by and stared and laughed and pointed. The people are human, not animals. They are just you and me. They have a very special gift of love for everyone. They like to shop and go out to eat just like everyone else. Let's treat them like human beings when we see them in public. They would love to have you talk to them.
Hey, everyone, these people need help also. They are a great bunch of people to know. Stop by the Cambridge House (formerly Prairie View) to visit. They would love to have you. So, before you all go judging them, go visit.
Think how you would feel, if it was a member of your family.
Rita Sexton
Burket
Accident Victim
Editor, Times-Union:On behalf of my daughter, Marissa Gadson, I would like to thank all of "our" friends as well as those of you we do not know in Warsaw for all the prayers, cards and e-mails that have been showered upon Marissa since her car accident on Jan. 17th. The close calls many of us have had with semis became a reality for her when she was rear-ended by one at 55 mph while waiting to turn into her driveway. Only by the grace of God is she still with us today and she knows He must have big plans for her. She is a strong young lady and with God's help has every intention of making a full recovery despite her injuries, which included a broken neck, multiple broken ribs and a punctured lung. After spending days in ICU and then surgery to fuse her broken neck she is now at home taking one day at a time. Although we moved away from Warsaw almost six years ago, the outpouring of love and prayer from our hometown has been absolutely overwhelming.
Thank you again ... and God bless.
Marissa Gadson
Charles and Janet Lentz
Mt. Pleasant, N.C.
via e-mail
In A Corner
Editor, Times-Union:In regard to the war in the Middle East:
Looks like our president has backed himself in a corner. He is dealing with an evil force that he could easily get this world in trouble.
Saddam Hussein is controlled by the God of this world and far more subtle than we might believe. It seems he has stalled until now with the United Nations inspectors until we have amassed a great army in that part of the world. I do not believe they want to match forces with us militarily but their aim is to bankrupt this country.
Since the bombings of the buildings in New York and Washington, D.C., just consider the airlines that have filed bankruptcy or are in financial trouble. How many young men have left their families by activating the National Guard Reserve forces?
We have come to the point it is either fight or back off.
I still believe the main objective of the religion of Islam is to bring the other religions under their control.
I read in the news that the funds put aside for trust for the poor is already exhausted and they are looking to the federal government for help. How long can we as a people survive financially? Here are the wars and rumors of wars. But Christ said the end is not yet.
The church world as a whole is fulfilled Matthew 25. God's spiritual kingdoms are the sleeping virgins. We need to get our spiritual eyes open. For now is our salvation, nearer than when we first believed.
Think about it.
Pastor Ralph Dotson
Silver Lake
Cell Phones
Editor, Times-Union:With much recent discussion regarding legislation against talking on cell phones while driving, if this is to be, it should include all devices. This includes changing CDs and/or diskettes. All two-way radios: county vehicles (snow plows with 10-foot blades and 10- to 15-ton payload); school buses (some 40 to 50 children on board without seat belts); contractor vehicles; CB radios (30+ ton GVW without seatbelts), to name a few. Do not dismiss police vehicles. Two officers collided in Elkhart because they were listening to their radios to determine the location of the "villain," and did not pay attention to their locations. This resulted in two city vehicles damaged, one officer hurt and one killed.
In addition, no more eating while driving. (Fast food facilities can provide areas to park to eat.) No smoking, maps, books, TVs in conversion vans or applying makeup. No more EMS ambulance drivers talking and driving. All vehicle manufacturers can eliminate their satellite systems for emergency and location benefits.
If cell phones go, so should all distracting devices. If not, we'd only be catering to some lobby group that wishes to sell more equipment/accessories for telephones. This would not do anything to improve safety. If we are to do something, then do everything. Do it right. Unlike seat belt laws, include everyone. Not just some select few. Whatever else is considered, include all two-way communication.
Dennis Lundgren
Warsaw
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