Letters to the Editor 02-28-2000
July 28, 2016 at 4:25 p.m.
By -
- Abortion Defined - Spelling Bee Parents - Accident Comfort - Older Drivers - Different - Wawasee Spirit - Read The Scriptures
Abortion Defined
Editor, Times-Union:One issue that comes up each election year is that of pro-life vs. pro-choice. The terms have to do with abortion and whether it should be legal. The problem is, we have two "pro" words and no "against" words. Who wants to be "Against-life" or "Against-choice"?Ê We need to get beyond the slogans and recognize the actions that they promote. A definition of abortion as it applies, not in the medical or legal sense, but in the moral sense needs to be considered.
We can exclude those cases where, with a desire to save both the mother and the child but being unable to do so, the doctor is forced to give his life-saving attention to only one patient. That is not the issue being debated.
Abortion is the intentional termination of an innocent human life by the choice of the mother and with the cooperation of a physician.Ê Now what part of this definition doesn't fit? It is intentional.ÊÊTermination of the fetus' life does not occur. A biologist must admit that each cell in the fetus is human, is living and is distinct from its mother. Certainly the child has not broken any of our civil laws that he or she should be sentenced to death. This definition stands. What other word could we use for the act of intentionally taking the life of innocent human being?Ê
"Murder!"
So the "against" behind pro-life and pro-choice is whether we are "against murder" or "against interfering with a mother's choice to murder her child." Some try to straddle the issue by saying that it is OK in the case of rape or incest. Is it OK to murder the children of rapists? This should be a black and white issue. The only gray area is the area between murdering hundreds and murdering millions. Once you start sanctioning the killing of innocent human beings, it is hard to draw the line on where to stop.
This may seem harsh, but what else can we say? We should feel compassion for the women who in a time of deep emotional crisis have been victimized by the profiteering abortionists. But those who speak in favor of abortion at the political rallies, at press conferences and in the public debates are not in the middle of an emotional crisis. They are sacrificing human lives to promote their own selfish agenda.
All other issues are completely irrelevant in comparison to this one issue. We need to vote our conscience, not our wallet. If you are eligible to vote, then support candidates that are truly pro-life.Ê Among the presidential candidates that is Alan Keyes. Support organizations that offer help (not a knife) to women who are in a crisis pregnancy. Heartline is such an organization, and there are others.Ê Get involved! Speak and act for those who cannot defend themselves. If we don't, the blood of innocent lives will be on our hands.
Tim Witte
Winona Lake
via e-mail
Spelling Bee Parents
Editor, Times-Union:We are Bryce Durgin's parents and write in disappointment over the recent controversy in this newspaper's editorial pages about the County Spelling Bee.
Almost three years ago when we were considering a move to this community, we first met Chris Gensinger, principal of Eisenhower Elementary. We were immediately impressed with the rapport that this outstanding educator had with his students. Our observation of the quality of education at Eisenhower that day played a significant role in our decision to move to this community. During the three school years that our children have attended Eisenhower, our initial impressions of Mr. Gensinger and his faculty have been continuously reinforced. As parents who have evaluated numerous public, private and parochial schools in other communities, we feel well-qualified to recognize the true educational excellence practiced at Eisenhower.
It is unfortunate that the County Spelling Bee and the semi-finals of the city basketball tourney were scheduled at precisely the same time - perhaps that can be avoided in future years. Mr. Gensinger faced a difficult decision on the evening of Feb. 9: attend the spelling bee in which Bryce was participating or support the 12 students playing basketball in the tourney (including Bryce's sister, Amy). That Bryce's teachers, and not Mr. Gensinger, represented the school at the spelling bee must be considered in context. Mr. Gensinger has been particularly supportive of Bryce over the past three years. Both Amy and Bryce have received a superb education at Eisenhower. Bryce's teacher, Mr. John Keller (who coincidentally coached the boys basketball team) has devoted his leisure time on several recent Saturdays to provide extra instruction to his students. Mr. Gensinger must consider how to divide his time and attention among all of his students. Mr. Scott Johnston, who was coaching the game that conflicted with the spelling bee, was one of the first people to give Bryce a congratulatory note for his performance in the spelling bee.
This newspaper's coverage of the spelling bees, and desire to emphasize academics in relation to athletics, must also be commended. After all, even the best athletes - high school, college and most professionals - must rely on their educations when their athletic careers end. That commendable effort should not, however, leave an inaccurate impression regarding the quality of education provided at Eisenhower Elementary. One way that the Times-Union can continue its emphasis on education is a report on the outstanding program conducted by Mrs. Torrence and Mr. Keller, with Mr. Gensinger's full support at Eisenhower.
Insofar as it appears that all the remarks that have been published on the pages of this newspaper have been well-intentioned, I would like to suggest that we end this debate on a positive note and allow the faculty of Eisenhower Elementary to continue their good work. This community has every reason to be proud of Mr. Gensinger and all the teachers at Eisenhower Elementary.
Robert and Susan Durgin
Winona Lake
Accident Comfort
Editor, Times-Union:A special thanks goes out to all of Zack's friends that were with him the night of his accident. It was a comfort to see all of you in the ER waiting room when we arrived. Thanks to Nick Roberts and Mary Ann Swoverland for figuring out how to contact us, as we were not near a phone at the time.
We want to thank all of our church family from New Horizon Community Church for being there for us that night.
We also thank the unknown girl that started immediately praying over Zack at the scene. We know another church put him on a prayer chain, we thank all of you for your prayers.
We thank EMS and the personnel at KCH for their care. Also a thanks to the investigating officer that stayed and talked to us for quite a while at the hospital.
We especially thank God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, for sparing our son's life that night; it is obvious You protected him.
Thanks again for everyone's prayers and all involved. God Bless.
Jeff and Amy Harding
Warsaw
Older Drivers
Editor, Times-Union:This is in response to various articles about older drivers. It is about time someone got their head out of the sand and realized that not all older drivers are deaf, dumb and blind as they age. We made this country what it is and we are not highway killers as some portray us to be. It wasn't a grandma or grandpa that killed a state trooper on the toll road. It was a coke-head semi driver that killed a grandpa and grandson. Semi-drivers that are breaking every rule of the road are the ones that need to be pulled over and such tragedies could be avoided. To me that is premeditated murder. They know what drugs will do.
Grandma or grandpa did not kill the state trooper on Highway 14, in Kosciusko County. A 22-year-old did. One lady stated that she would rather ride with a 16-year-old. I wonder if she would rather ride with the 16-year-old whose car I have in the shop with $1,500 damage from trying to do wheelies on school property? It was an 18-year-old driver that killed three people by drinking and running a stop sign in Warsaw.
Another comment was that the government should take steps to assure that older drivers are safe. She is right. Start ticketing the ones that are really breaking the law. The speeders, red light and stop sign runners and then the older people would stand a chance to stay alive. The semi drivers are the worse offenders. They love to run red lights and stop signs, run 75-85 in a 55 mph zone or 65 in a 45 mph zone. When told to stay in the right lane, they are in the middle lane, passing everyone in congested areas. There seems to be a love affair between the state of Indiana and law enforcement and the semi drivers, when we observe what they get away with.
Our property abuts a four-way stop intersection where approximately 100 vehicles a day run the stop signs. Some people run the signs as many as four times a day. Farmers with grain trucks, many semis (some even ended up in our yard) have run over the stop sign and kept on going. When we call the sheriff's department, they tell us there is no truth to what we are saying, and they have it documented. A badge and a uniform doesn't make them right and us wrong.
I have read many other complaints besides the CR 350W and CR 200N in our county. If you cross U.S. 30 with a green light, pause a while first or you will be broadsided by a semi. I suggest the BMV get their priorities straight and the law enforcers, enforce the law. No more warning tickets and don't let drivers that are killing people get away with murder. Which the majority of are not the older people. I think the governors that allowed the older people to be discriminated against with unlawful driving tests should be sued by thousands of senior citizens for the inconvenience they caused them. They should know how to run the state. I speak for my two older sisters and brother who had perfect driving records. They never maimed or killed anyone. Don't just run these police cars up and down the highways. Enforce the laws. Don't turn your head the other way.
Lakeville, Lapaz, Warsaw and Columbia City are examples of semis in the wrong lane, speeding. Where is the law? While writing this letter, I saw 11 semis run the stop sign and numerous cars. I bet not a 75-year-old was in the bunch.
Frank Kalka
Warsaw
Different
Editor, Times-Union:In reading and following the ongoing debate in Letters to the Editor concerning the Bible, Christian beliefs and how they apply to topics such as gay rights, I find myself finally wanting to add my own two cents.
First, none of you, the readers, including myself, are "wrong" or "right." We no longer live in a world of absolutes. Humans are as different as snowflakes, and one of the greatest mistakes anyone can make is to assume that other people feel the same way you do. Most often, they do not.
As for the idea of homosexuality being morally wrong, here's my honest opinion. The idea of homosexuality makes me uncomfortable. I can't say I approve. I am not gay, nor do I know anyone, as far as I am aware, who is. However, I was and am fortunate enough to have been taught by my excellent parents and peers that no matter what, I must always respect and care for my fellow man (or woman), NO MATTER what religion they adhere to, the color of their skin or their sexual orientation. Anything less is nothing more than blind hatred for what is different from yourself.
I feel that saying a gay person's lifestyle is "wrong" and "evil" based on your own religious beliefs is itself wrong. Maybe that gay person isn't a member of your religion. How would you feel, as a Christian if an Islamic person or a Jewish person or a Buddhist person were to come to you and say, "You are bad, because my beliefs say so." You would feel angry and violated. Think about that.
And the next time you turn on the news or pick up the paper, you might notice that it's never the gay person or the black person or whomever, that was beaten, tortured, perhaps dragged behind a truck, or tied to a fence and finally killed. It was the "normal" persons who committed such acts of violence and hatred. I wish people would get past hating each other because "You're not like me." Aren't there enough problems in everyday life to deal with?
Tim Keyes
Warsaw
via e-mail
Wawasee Spirit
Editor, Times-Union:My husband and I have been attending athletic functions at Wawasee High School since 1968 and have never been any prouder of what we had seen Wednesday at the Girls Regional.
Cheerleaders: thanks for the wonderful leadership of the student body. You did a fine job. The best yet.
Students: Oh, how awesome and what enthusiasm of spirit! It was tremendous. We sat across from you and I know you were the loudest group. Keep standing proud of your wonderful school and teams.
Girls Basketball Team: Wow! What can I say. It has been a great season. What a following you have had all season, it was grand. I'm positive I speak for all your fans, you played your hearts out all season long and it was enjoyed by all. We're already excited about next season.
Proud to be a warrior fan.
Jeanette Keim
Read The Scriptures
Editor, Times-Union:If Tim Ellis is scared by Matt Trier's letters to the editor, perhaps Matt has accomplished at least something. Maybe Mr. Ellis will be scared enough to read the Scriptures for himself and discover what God's Word truly says about homosexuality, as well as other sins. If Mr. Ellis would care to request help, I recommend Warsaw Wesleyan Church.
Grace Inman
via e-mail
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- Abortion Defined - Spelling Bee Parents - Accident Comfort - Older Drivers - Different - Wawasee Spirit - Read The Scriptures
Abortion Defined
Editor, Times-Union:One issue that comes up each election year is that of pro-life vs. pro-choice. The terms have to do with abortion and whether it should be legal. The problem is, we have two "pro" words and no "against" words. Who wants to be "Against-life" or "Against-choice"?Ê We need to get beyond the slogans and recognize the actions that they promote. A definition of abortion as it applies, not in the medical or legal sense, but in the moral sense needs to be considered.
We can exclude those cases where, with a desire to save both the mother and the child but being unable to do so, the doctor is forced to give his life-saving attention to only one patient. That is not the issue being debated.
Abortion is the intentional termination of an innocent human life by the choice of the mother and with the cooperation of a physician.Ê Now what part of this definition doesn't fit? It is intentional.ÊÊTermination of the fetus' life does not occur. A biologist must admit that each cell in the fetus is human, is living and is distinct from its mother. Certainly the child has not broken any of our civil laws that he or she should be sentenced to death. This definition stands. What other word could we use for the act of intentionally taking the life of innocent human being?Ê
"Murder!"
So the "against" behind pro-life and pro-choice is whether we are "against murder" or "against interfering with a mother's choice to murder her child." Some try to straddle the issue by saying that it is OK in the case of rape or incest. Is it OK to murder the children of rapists? This should be a black and white issue. The only gray area is the area between murdering hundreds and murdering millions. Once you start sanctioning the killing of innocent human beings, it is hard to draw the line on where to stop.
This may seem harsh, but what else can we say? We should feel compassion for the women who in a time of deep emotional crisis have been victimized by the profiteering abortionists. But those who speak in favor of abortion at the political rallies, at press conferences and in the public debates are not in the middle of an emotional crisis. They are sacrificing human lives to promote their own selfish agenda.
All other issues are completely irrelevant in comparison to this one issue. We need to vote our conscience, not our wallet. If you are eligible to vote, then support candidates that are truly pro-life.Ê Among the presidential candidates that is Alan Keyes. Support organizations that offer help (not a knife) to women who are in a crisis pregnancy. Heartline is such an organization, and there are others.Ê Get involved! Speak and act for those who cannot defend themselves. If we don't, the blood of innocent lives will be on our hands.
Tim Witte
Winona Lake
via e-mail
Spelling Bee Parents
Editor, Times-Union:We are Bryce Durgin's parents and write in disappointment over the recent controversy in this newspaper's editorial pages about the County Spelling Bee.
Almost three years ago when we were considering a move to this community, we first met Chris Gensinger, principal of Eisenhower Elementary. We were immediately impressed with the rapport that this outstanding educator had with his students. Our observation of the quality of education at Eisenhower that day played a significant role in our decision to move to this community. During the three school years that our children have attended Eisenhower, our initial impressions of Mr. Gensinger and his faculty have been continuously reinforced. As parents who have evaluated numerous public, private and parochial schools in other communities, we feel well-qualified to recognize the true educational excellence practiced at Eisenhower.
It is unfortunate that the County Spelling Bee and the semi-finals of the city basketball tourney were scheduled at precisely the same time - perhaps that can be avoided in future years. Mr. Gensinger faced a difficult decision on the evening of Feb. 9: attend the spelling bee in which Bryce was participating or support the 12 students playing basketball in the tourney (including Bryce's sister, Amy). That Bryce's teachers, and not Mr. Gensinger, represented the school at the spelling bee must be considered in context. Mr. Gensinger has been particularly supportive of Bryce over the past three years. Both Amy and Bryce have received a superb education at Eisenhower. Bryce's teacher, Mr. John Keller (who coincidentally coached the boys basketball team) has devoted his leisure time on several recent Saturdays to provide extra instruction to his students. Mr. Gensinger must consider how to divide his time and attention among all of his students. Mr. Scott Johnston, who was coaching the game that conflicted with the spelling bee, was one of the first people to give Bryce a congratulatory note for his performance in the spelling bee.
This newspaper's coverage of the spelling bees, and desire to emphasize academics in relation to athletics, must also be commended. After all, even the best athletes - high school, college and most professionals - must rely on their educations when their athletic careers end. That commendable effort should not, however, leave an inaccurate impression regarding the quality of education provided at Eisenhower Elementary. One way that the Times-Union can continue its emphasis on education is a report on the outstanding program conducted by Mrs. Torrence and Mr. Keller, with Mr. Gensinger's full support at Eisenhower.
Insofar as it appears that all the remarks that have been published on the pages of this newspaper have been well-intentioned, I would like to suggest that we end this debate on a positive note and allow the faculty of Eisenhower Elementary to continue their good work. This community has every reason to be proud of Mr. Gensinger and all the teachers at Eisenhower Elementary.
Robert and Susan Durgin
Winona Lake
Accident Comfort
Editor, Times-Union:A special thanks goes out to all of Zack's friends that were with him the night of his accident. It was a comfort to see all of you in the ER waiting room when we arrived. Thanks to Nick Roberts and Mary Ann Swoverland for figuring out how to contact us, as we were not near a phone at the time.
We want to thank all of our church family from New Horizon Community Church for being there for us that night.
We also thank the unknown girl that started immediately praying over Zack at the scene. We know another church put him on a prayer chain, we thank all of you for your prayers.
We thank EMS and the personnel at KCH for their care. Also a thanks to the investigating officer that stayed and talked to us for quite a while at the hospital.
We especially thank God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, for sparing our son's life that night; it is obvious You protected him.
Thanks again for everyone's prayers and all involved. God Bless.
Jeff and Amy Harding
Warsaw
Older Drivers
Editor, Times-Union:This is in response to various articles about older drivers. It is about time someone got their head out of the sand and realized that not all older drivers are deaf, dumb and blind as they age. We made this country what it is and we are not highway killers as some portray us to be. It wasn't a grandma or grandpa that killed a state trooper on the toll road. It was a coke-head semi driver that killed a grandpa and grandson. Semi-drivers that are breaking every rule of the road are the ones that need to be pulled over and such tragedies could be avoided. To me that is premeditated murder. They know what drugs will do.
Grandma or grandpa did not kill the state trooper on Highway 14, in Kosciusko County. A 22-year-old did. One lady stated that she would rather ride with a 16-year-old. I wonder if she would rather ride with the 16-year-old whose car I have in the shop with $1,500 damage from trying to do wheelies on school property? It was an 18-year-old driver that killed three people by drinking and running a stop sign in Warsaw.
Another comment was that the government should take steps to assure that older drivers are safe. She is right. Start ticketing the ones that are really breaking the law. The speeders, red light and stop sign runners and then the older people would stand a chance to stay alive. The semi drivers are the worse offenders. They love to run red lights and stop signs, run 75-85 in a 55 mph zone or 65 in a 45 mph zone. When told to stay in the right lane, they are in the middle lane, passing everyone in congested areas. There seems to be a love affair between the state of Indiana and law enforcement and the semi drivers, when we observe what they get away with.
Our property abuts a four-way stop intersection where approximately 100 vehicles a day run the stop signs. Some people run the signs as many as four times a day. Farmers with grain trucks, many semis (some even ended up in our yard) have run over the stop sign and kept on going. When we call the sheriff's department, they tell us there is no truth to what we are saying, and they have it documented. A badge and a uniform doesn't make them right and us wrong.
I have read many other complaints besides the CR 350W and CR 200N in our county. If you cross U.S. 30 with a green light, pause a while first or you will be broadsided by a semi. I suggest the BMV get their priorities straight and the law enforcers, enforce the law. No more warning tickets and don't let drivers that are killing people get away with murder. Which the majority of are not the older people. I think the governors that allowed the older people to be discriminated against with unlawful driving tests should be sued by thousands of senior citizens for the inconvenience they caused them. They should know how to run the state. I speak for my two older sisters and brother who had perfect driving records. They never maimed or killed anyone. Don't just run these police cars up and down the highways. Enforce the laws. Don't turn your head the other way.
Lakeville, Lapaz, Warsaw and Columbia City are examples of semis in the wrong lane, speeding. Where is the law? While writing this letter, I saw 11 semis run the stop sign and numerous cars. I bet not a 75-year-old was in the bunch.
Frank Kalka
Warsaw
Different
Editor, Times-Union:In reading and following the ongoing debate in Letters to the Editor concerning the Bible, Christian beliefs and how they apply to topics such as gay rights, I find myself finally wanting to add my own two cents.
First, none of you, the readers, including myself, are "wrong" or "right." We no longer live in a world of absolutes. Humans are as different as snowflakes, and one of the greatest mistakes anyone can make is to assume that other people feel the same way you do. Most often, they do not.
As for the idea of homosexuality being morally wrong, here's my honest opinion. The idea of homosexuality makes me uncomfortable. I can't say I approve. I am not gay, nor do I know anyone, as far as I am aware, who is. However, I was and am fortunate enough to have been taught by my excellent parents and peers that no matter what, I must always respect and care for my fellow man (or woman), NO MATTER what religion they adhere to, the color of their skin or their sexual orientation. Anything less is nothing more than blind hatred for what is different from yourself.
I feel that saying a gay person's lifestyle is "wrong" and "evil" based on your own religious beliefs is itself wrong. Maybe that gay person isn't a member of your religion. How would you feel, as a Christian if an Islamic person or a Jewish person or a Buddhist person were to come to you and say, "You are bad, because my beliefs say so." You would feel angry and violated. Think about that.
And the next time you turn on the news or pick up the paper, you might notice that it's never the gay person or the black person or whomever, that was beaten, tortured, perhaps dragged behind a truck, or tied to a fence and finally killed. It was the "normal" persons who committed such acts of violence and hatred. I wish people would get past hating each other because "You're not like me." Aren't there enough problems in everyday life to deal with?
Tim Keyes
Warsaw
via e-mail
Wawasee Spirit
Editor, Times-Union:My husband and I have been attending athletic functions at Wawasee High School since 1968 and have never been any prouder of what we had seen Wednesday at the Girls Regional.
Cheerleaders: thanks for the wonderful leadership of the student body. You did a fine job. The best yet.
Students: Oh, how awesome and what enthusiasm of spirit! It was tremendous. We sat across from you and I know you were the loudest group. Keep standing proud of your wonderful school and teams.
Girls Basketball Team: Wow! What can I say. It has been a great season. What a following you have had all season, it was grand. I'm positive I speak for all your fans, you played your hearts out all season long and it was enjoyed by all. We're already excited about next season.
Proud to be a warrior fan.
Jeanette Keim
Read The Scriptures
Editor, Times-Union:If Tim Ellis is scared by Matt Trier's letters to the editor, perhaps Matt has accomplished at least something. Maybe Mr. Ellis will be scared enough to read the Scriptures for himself and discover what God's Word truly says about homosexuality, as well as other sins. If Mr. Ellis would care to request help, I recommend Warsaw Wesleyan Church.
Grace Inman
via e-mail
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