Letters to the Editor 04-16-2002
July 28, 2016 at 4:25 p.m.
By -
- Jason's Innocence - Supports Helmke - Toward Gomorrah - Zoning Laws - Maligned Intersection - Judicial Outrage - Getting Away With Murder - Kind Gesture - Helpful Mini Mart - Souder Lecture
Jason's Innocence
Editor, Times-Union:As Jason Fisher's attorney I feel that I must reply to the clear insinuation contained in "News Views" that Jason Fisher killed Kathy Vroman.
You appear to believe that even though O.J. was acquitted, he was nevertheless guilty. And yet, you assume that since Jason's dad was acquitted, Jason must be guilty.
You say very little in your article of the evidence for or against Jason (and, indeed, I don't know how you would know it). Certainly Jason had no opportunity to defend himself at his father's trial. I will simply state that we were ready and eager to go to trial Dec. 10, and I have every confidence that Jason would have been acquitted at that trial.
I agree that it is unlikely that anyone will be convicted of Kathy Vroman's murder. And I agree that it is a travesty. However, I don't believe we improve the situation by insinuating that since the state failed to convict his father, Jason must have done it.
Michael L. Miner
Warsaw
Supports Helmke
Editor, Times-Union:Next month, for the first time since we switched from the Republican to Democratic parties over a decade ago, we will request a Republican primary ballot. The voters of Indiana's new 3rd Congressional district have a unique opportunity to nominate a candidate who is remarkably experienced, highly effective and truly fair to all people. Paul Helmke will bring to Washington the badly needed experience of a competent and compassionate city mayor. We have always held to the idea that more former mayors are needed in Congress, but in light of the September 11th disaster, that need is even more pressing.
Cities require special protection and stepped up security in this new, unfortunate era. Paul Helmke, a former leader in the U.S Conference of Mayors, is keenly aware of the unique needs and vital concerns of our nation's urban areas. He has been roundly praised by Republicans and Democrats, conservatives, liberals and moderates as an effective mayor who serves the best interest of our nation's cities. At the same time, he is well-versed in the complex issues facing smaller towns and rural areas. In addition, Mayor Helmke has exhibited an increasingly rare political skill so desperately needed on Capitol Hill. Though decidedly Republican, he has demonstrated an ability to build political bridges and foster substantive bipartisanship. This is a man who can work effectively with President Bush, Senators Bayh and Lugar and other officials to get things done for northeast Indiana. We urge residents of the 3rd District to be certain they are registered to vote. Then, cast your ballot for Congress in May and November for Paul Helmke. You will be glad you did.
Jim and Carrie Stanley
Fort Wayne
via e-mail
Toward Gomorrah
Editor, Times-Union:Have you heard the catch phase "Valuing the Differences"? It's used in the so-called diversity or sensitive training courses.
One difference that these current courses promote is valuing one's sexual orientation, which is the politically correct term for homosexuality or alternative lifestyle choice.
If you are one of the moral minorities who are against such behavior, you are then labeled prejudiced, bigoted or homophobic.
Tell me what value could result in choosing such a deviate lifestyle that not only puts one at greater risk for HIV but also leads to premature death, suicide, depression and drunkeness.
Right to Life uses the alternative phrase. Adoption is the loving option and indeed it is if accompanied by a man and a woman who are married.
Now we are seeking to place a value on homosexuals and lesbians adopting children. What possible value could result in this blatant form of child abuse?
Quoting Judge Moore of Alabama, "Homosexual conduct is and has been considered abhorrent, immoral, detestable, a crime against nature and a violation of the laws of nature and nature's god upon which this nation and our laws are predicted. Such conduct is destructive to a basic building block of society, the family. The State of Alabama and its laws have consistently held that exposing a child to such behavior has a serious destructive and seriously detrimental effect on the children. It is an inherent evil against which children must be protected."
We need to quit falling for the lies and value the truth. We need to value the difference between right and wrong behavior. We need to value moral absolutes that have their own foundations in the character of a holy god that each and every one of us will one day give account. For we have been created in his image, and it's his image that values life over death. We need to be reminded that the wages of sin is death and the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ who shed his blood on the cross that not only cleanses us from all sin, but also frees us from the power of sin.
We need to quit valuing sin and its promotion in the name of tolerance. We need to value righteousness that's intolerant of criminal acts.
Righteousness exalts a nation, sin destroys it.
Melody Luecke
Warsaw
Zoning Laws
Editor, Times-Union:First I agree with James A Craig's letter published April 15, 2002.
While reading other articles and letters I am amazed at the presumption that a "farmer" should have priority to purchase a parcel of land at a less than market value because "I want to farm." What nonsense! A family desiring to live in the country should have equal opportunity to do so. You want your dream, pay the price and be thankful you have a choice.
A question I have is: Say an owner is restricted in the number and size of parcels sold. How long are these restrictions effective? My perception is the restrictions have a definite correlation with: 1. Who is the owner 2. Who is his law firm 3. Does he have the financial resources to pursue a variance 4. How many new board members are involved with a better plan?
Corporate and urban sprawl is going to continue. The last thing we need is zoning laws in effect that will resemble Enron's depleting retirement plans for many people. Restricting the right to a fair market price today will inevitably lead to an owner sometime in the future saying, "EASIEST MONEY I EVER MADE."
Thanks, I feel better now!
Claude Manuel
Warsaw
via e-mail
Maligned Intersection
Editor, Times-Union:In reply to: Cassie Dragoo 2/26/02
I have lived on CR 300S since the mid-'70s. Not once has the corner of CR 300S and County Farm Road jumped up and bit me either on my way to town or work.
If you are so sure the corner is such a dangerous intersection, why don't you bring a video camera and tape what is happening around the same hours that the past accidents have happened? You could possibly write down how many vehicles didn't come to a stop or just did a rolling stop. Check and see how many speeders came through, if any vehicles looked like the driver may be drunk or possibly high on drugs. Maybe they were playing games with another car?
I guess I want clear proof that these unfortunate accidents weren't weather related or drivers making mistakes by being careless.
From what I view in my car, there is not any kind of obstruction of buildings or corn in the fields that block my view, no matter what time of the year it is.
Until you can give me the proof to the contrary, don't blame my intersection.
Barb Keim
Warsaw
Judicial Outrage
Editor, Times-Union:I am in complete agreement with Gary Gerard's editorial concerning the non-prosecution in the recent murder case. However, I must add one feeling he didn't express: outrage. I am outraged that something like this can be allowed to happen in our community. I am outraged that no one will be held responsible for taking another's life. Finally, I am appalled that not every single person in this county is as outraged as I am. This is 2002, a time when great strides have been made worldwide in the prosecution of criminals. To have narrowed down the suspect list to two people, and then have nothing to show in the end, is a travesty of injustice bordering on malpractice. This does not reflect well on our community, and may indeed make us a laughingstock if the story is spread outside Kosciusko County. As a citizen of this county, I would like to apologize to Kathy Vroman's family. I am only sorry that my outrage will be limited to this letter to the editor and my actions in the voting booth next month.
Michael Wack
Warsaw
via e-mail
Getting Away With Murder
Editor, Times-Union:Bravo to Gary Gerard for his "get down to it" editorial in the Saturday, April 13th, Times-Union. That whole incident was definitely a Barney Fife story! Poor Cathy Vroman, her killer couldn't even be brought to justice for the horrible way he ended her life and trashed her body. If someone gets away with murder once, will they do it a second time? Makes you wonder, doesn't it? Do you ever wonder why you don't have much faith in the justice system? This definitely was a good example for the answer of that question. Just wanted to say that ... good job, Gary, keep on rockin'!
Sally Goon
Leesburg
via e-mail
Kind Gesture
Editor, Times-Union:On Thursday, April 4, I had brought my kids to town to visit. On our way in we had decided to stop at Burger King drive-up and pick up lunch. As I pulled up to the window the cashier handed us our order, and much to my surprise, informed me that the gentleman in the car in front of us had paid for our order. What a kind gesture! It was such a great experience for my children to see. We try to instill the "value of giving" to our children, and what a great example this was. To this day, they are still telling everyone they know!
So, to the gentleman in the green car, and who we understand does this frequently, we really appreciated your kind gesture. It made us feel special, and has reminded us of the kind hearts in Warsaw. Please be assured that we will definitely "pay it forward."
Kim Reneker
Fort Wayne
via e-mail
Helpful Mini Mart
Editor, Times-Union:I just wanted to tell all the workers from the Sands Mini Mart in Mentone how much you are appreciated for serving such great food. But the real reason I am writing this is because of all the smiling faces, you people are just so nice and you call people names like "hon" and "sweetie." You guys really make people feel good.
Another thing I need to mention is my granddaughter comes in there for breakfast often. Someone there made her come out with a big smile on her face. They called her their little breakfast girl. Thank you for the great food and the kind and friendly service it takes to work with customers.
Brenda Kreis
Mentone
Souder Lecture
Editor, Times-Union:Last evening (April 12) I attended a most informative and stimulating lecture by U.S. Representative Mark Souder, of the 3rd district of Indiana. It was part of the American Lyceum Lecture Series, sponsored by Grace College and The Village at Winona, held at Westminster Hall. Congressman Souder addressed the topic "American Foreign Policy and Its Effect on Kosciusko County." He showed himself to be extremely well-versed in the international data, and was able to relate today's economic and political issues to our situation in northern Indiana in a practical and effective way. He showed how developments not only in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, but also in our own hemisphere and along our borders, have effects that touch our lives very directly in Indiana. A question-and-answer period following the address was helpful in providing detailed answers to some penetrating questions. Voters are well served by having Congressman Souder in Washington, and we will do well to return this man of character and strong principles for another term in Congress.
Homer A. Kent
Winona Lake
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- Jason's Innocence - Supports Helmke - Toward Gomorrah - Zoning Laws - Maligned Intersection - Judicial Outrage - Getting Away With Murder - Kind Gesture - Helpful Mini Mart - Souder Lecture
Jason's Innocence
Editor, Times-Union:As Jason Fisher's attorney I feel that I must reply to the clear insinuation contained in "News Views" that Jason Fisher killed Kathy Vroman.
You appear to believe that even though O.J. was acquitted, he was nevertheless guilty. And yet, you assume that since Jason's dad was acquitted, Jason must be guilty.
You say very little in your article of the evidence for or against Jason (and, indeed, I don't know how you would know it). Certainly Jason had no opportunity to defend himself at his father's trial. I will simply state that we were ready and eager to go to trial Dec. 10, and I have every confidence that Jason would have been acquitted at that trial.
I agree that it is unlikely that anyone will be convicted of Kathy Vroman's murder. And I agree that it is a travesty. However, I don't believe we improve the situation by insinuating that since the state failed to convict his father, Jason must have done it.
Michael L. Miner
Warsaw
Supports Helmke
Editor, Times-Union:Next month, for the first time since we switched from the Republican to Democratic parties over a decade ago, we will request a Republican primary ballot. The voters of Indiana's new 3rd Congressional district have a unique opportunity to nominate a candidate who is remarkably experienced, highly effective and truly fair to all people. Paul Helmke will bring to Washington the badly needed experience of a competent and compassionate city mayor. We have always held to the idea that more former mayors are needed in Congress, but in light of the September 11th disaster, that need is even more pressing.
Cities require special protection and stepped up security in this new, unfortunate era. Paul Helmke, a former leader in the U.S Conference of Mayors, is keenly aware of the unique needs and vital concerns of our nation's urban areas. He has been roundly praised by Republicans and Democrats, conservatives, liberals and moderates as an effective mayor who serves the best interest of our nation's cities. At the same time, he is well-versed in the complex issues facing smaller towns and rural areas. In addition, Mayor Helmke has exhibited an increasingly rare political skill so desperately needed on Capitol Hill. Though decidedly Republican, he has demonstrated an ability to build political bridges and foster substantive bipartisanship. This is a man who can work effectively with President Bush, Senators Bayh and Lugar and other officials to get things done for northeast Indiana. We urge residents of the 3rd District to be certain they are registered to vote. Then, cast your ballot for Congress in May and November for Paul Helmke. You will be glad you did.
Jim and Carrie Stanley
Fort Wayne
via e-mail
Toward Gomorrah
Editor, Times-Union:Have you heard the catch phase "Valuing the Differences"? It's used in the so-called diversity or sensitive training courses.
One difference that these current courses promote is valuing one's sexual orientation, which is the politically correct term for homosexuality or alternative lifestyle choice.
If you are one of the moral minorities who are against such behavior, you are then labeled prejudiced, bigoted or homophobic.
Tell me what value could result in choosing such a deviate lifestyle that not only puts one at greater risk for HIV but also leads to premature death, suicide, depression and drunkeness.
Right to Life uses the alternative phrase. Adoption is the loving option and indeed it is if accompanied by a man and a woman who are married.
Now we are seeking to place a value on homosexuals and lesbians adopting children. What possible value could result in this blatant form of child abuse?
Quoting Judge Moore of Alabama, "Homosexual conduct is and has been considered abhorrent, immoral, detestable, a crime against nature and a violation of the laws of nature and nature's god upon which this nation and our laws are predicted. Such conduct is destructive to a basic building block of society, the family. The State of Alabama and its laws have consistently held that exposing a child to such behavior has a serious destructive and seriously detrimental effect on the children. It is an inherent evil against which children must be protected."
We need to quit falling for the lies and value the truth. We need to value the difference between right and wrong behavior. We need to value moral absolutes that have their own foundations in the character of a holy god that each and every one of us will one day give account. For we have been created in his image, and it's his image that values life over death. We need to be reminded that the wages of sin is death and the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ who shed his blood on the cross that not only cleanses us from all sin, but also frees us from the power of sin.
We need to quit valuing sin and its promotion in the name of tolerance. We need to value righteousness that's intolerant of criminal acts.
Righteousness exalts a nation, sin destroys it.
Melody Luecke
Warsaw
Zoning Laws
Editor, Times-Union:First I agree with James A Craig's letter published April 15, 2002.
While reading other articles and letters I am amazed at the presumption that a "farmer" should have priority to purchase a parcel of land at a less than market value because "I want to farm." What nonsense! A family desiring to live in the country should have equal opportunity to do so. You want your dream, pay the price and be thankful you have a choice.
A question I have is: Say an owner is restricted in the number and size of parcels sold. How long are these restrictions effective? My perception is the restrictions have a definite correlation with: 1. Who is the owner 2. Who is his law firm 3. Does he have the financial resources to pursue a variance 4. How many new board members are involved with a better plan?
Corporate and urban sprawl is going to continue. The last thing we need is zoning laws in effect that will resemble Enron's depleting retirement plans for many people. Restricting the right to a fair market price today will inevitably lead to an owner sometime in the future saying, "EASIEST MONEY I EVER MADE."
Thanks, I feel better now!
Claude Manuel
Warsaw
via e-mail
Maligned Intersection
Editor, Times-Union:In reply to: Cassie Dragoo 2/26/02
I have lived on CR 300S since the mid-'70s. Not once has the corner of CR 300S and County Farm Road jumped up and bit me either on my way to town or work.
If you are so sure the corner is such a dangerous intersection, why don't you bring a video camera and tape what is happening around the same hours that the past accidents have happened? You could possibly write down how many vehicles didn't come to a stop or just did a rolling stop. Check and see how many speeders came through, if any vehicles looked like the driver may be drunk or possibly high on drugs. Maybe they were playing games with another car?
I guess I want clear proof that these unfortunate accidents weren't weather related or drivers making mistakes by being careless.
From what I view in my car, there is not any kind of obstruction of buildings or corn in the fields that block my view, no matter what time of the year it is.
Until you can give me the proof to the contrary, don't blame my intersection.
Barb Keim
Warsaw
Judicial Outrage
Editor, Times-Union:I am in complete agreement with Gary Gerard's editorial concerning the non-prosecution in the recent murder case. However, I must add one feeling he didn't express: outrage. I am outraged that something like this can be allowed to happen in our community. I am outraged that no one will be held responsible for taking another's life. Finally, I am appalled that not every single person in this county is as outraged as I am. This is 2002, a time when great strides have been made worldwide in the prosecution of criminals. To have narrowed down the suspect list to two people, and then have nothing to show in the end, is a travesty of injustice bordering on malpractice. This does not reflect well on our community, and may indeed make us a laughingstock if the story is spread outside Kosciusko County. As a citizen of this county, I would like to apologize to Kathy Vroman's family. I am only sorry that my outrage will be limited to this letter to the editor and my actions in the voting booth next month.
Michael Wack
Warsaw
via e-mail
Getting Away With Murder
Editor, Times-Union:Bravo to Gary Gerard for his "get down to it" editorial in the Saturday, April 13th, Times-Union. That whole incident was definitely a Barney Fife story! Poor Cathy Vroman, her killer couldn't even be brought to justice for the horrible way he ended her life and trashed her body. If someone gets away with murder once, will they do it a second time? Makes you wonder, doesn't it? Do you ever wonder why you don't have much faith in the justice system? This definitely was a good example for the answer of that question. Just wanted to say that ... good job, Gary, keep on rockin'!
Sally Goon
Leesburg
via e-mail
Kind Gesture
Editor, Times-Union:On Thursday, April 4, I had brought my kids to town to visit. On our way in we had decided to stop at Burger King drive-up and pick up lunch. As I pulled up to the window the cashier handed us our order, and much to my surprise, informed me that the gentleman in the car in front of us had paid for our order. What a kind gesture! It was such a great experience for my children to see. We try to instill the "value of giving" to our children, and what a great example this was. To this day, they are still telling everyone they know!
So, to the gentleman in the green car, and who we understand does this frequently, we really appreciated your kind gesture. It made us feel special, and has reminded us of the kind hearts in Warsaw. Please be assured that we will definitely "pay it forward."
Kim Reneker
Fort Wayne
via e-mail
Helpful Mini Mart
Editor, Times-Union:I just wanted to tell all the workers from the Sands Mini Mart in Mentone how much you are appreciated for serving such great food. But the real reason I am writing this is because of all the smiling faces, you people are just so nice and you call people names like "hon" and "sweetie." You guys really make people feel good.
Another thing I need to mention is my granddaughter comes in there for breakfast often. Someone there made her come out with a big smile on her face. They called her their little breakfast girl. Thank you for the great food and the kind and friendly service it takes to work with customers.
Brenda Kreis
Mentone
Souder Lecture
Editor, Times-Union:Last evening (April 12) I attended a most informative and stimulating lecture by U.S. Representative Mark Souder, of the 3rd district of Indiana. It was part of the American Lyceum Lecture Series, sponsored by Grace College and The Village at Winona, held at Westminster Hall. Congressman Souder addressed the topic "American Foreign Policy and Its Effect on Kosciusko County." He showed himself to be extremely well-versed in the international data, and was able to relate today's economic and political issues to our situation in northern Indiana in a practical and effective way. He showed how developments not only in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, but also in our own hemisphere and along our borders, have effects that touch our lives very directly in Indiana. A question-and-answer period following the address was helpful in providing detailed answers to some penetrating questions. Voters are well served by having Congressman Souder in Washington, and we will do well to return this man of character and strong principles for another term in Congress.
Homer A. Kent
Winona Lake
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