ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Saturday, February 8, 1997 TAG: 9702100091
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-7 EDITION: METRO
TYPE: LETTERS
Retire all Civil War statues, too?
THE SENATE'S pusillanimous vote to abolish the state song (Jan. 29 news article, ``Senate: Retire state song'') may be but the tip of the iceberg.
Possibly in the interest of minority sensibilities, our elected officials will also consider removing all those ``offensive'' Civil War monuments that now grace the lawns of courthouses throughout the Old Dominion.
They could then further their political pandering by dismantling the Virginia State Monument at Gettysburg and criminalizing the display of the Confederate battle flag.
GEORGE J. WINTER SR.
MONTVALE
Teachers must put children first
I HAVE read articles and attended meetings concerning schools and the budget with interest and concern. I fully understand an employee's interest in more money and better working conditions. However, let's not forget why one has chosen the teaching profession.
Where is the commitment to the children?
Children are graduating who cannot spell, do simple math and speak correct English - all of which are needed to live and work in today's world.
Children are reaching out to adults and teachers for discipline, not only in the schools but in everyday living. Yes, it's the job of the parents to discipline. However, we as a community should show concern for the children.
I've also listened to how some teachers are involved in after-school activities, some of which are the only thing a child has to feel good about. I appreciate a teacher's involvement, for I, too, have coached teams and spent time with children. I also am aware of the violence in the schools and in the streets. I've seen many children die, and know how very precious life is.
Yes, teachers should be given raises according to their ability to teach. But our top priority should be the students. Again, I ask: Where is the commitment to our children?
WANDA GAIL MUSGROVE
ROANOKE
Davis' arrogance is offensive
I WAS appalled by your Jan. 25 news article, ``Gil Davis responds to videotape.'' He says that he was just letting his hair down when he first offered to help Ramona Hines appear in Playboy magazine.
Was he conducting himself in a professional manner when he had ``a couple of drinks'' at the meeting with Hines? Maybe Clinton was just letting his hair down with Paula Jones, which is a poor excuse for either man.
I am a conservative Christian who votes Republican, and I am not a fan of President Clinton or the way he's conducting himself in the Oval Office. However, I suggest that if Davis is going to represent a client for sexual harassment against Clinton, he needs to get his own house in order.
I am glad this videotape came to light before Republicans nominate for the office of Virginia's attorney general. It will definitely affect my vote, which will not be for Davis! If getting a ``stuffed shirt'' in the attorney general's office means getting someone who will stand for conservative Christian values and conduct himself in a professional manner that honors the office, then give me a stuffed shirt.
Instead of Davis showing his arrogance by saying that he did nothing wrong and owes no apology to anyone, he needs to come down off his pedestal and apologize to the American people who believe in family values.
FRED GERALD
WILLIS
Many men shut out their kids
I READ with interest Pamela Gunter's Jan. 29 letter to the editor, ``Don't shut the door on dads.'' She appears to have the ideal situation. But, unfortunately, not all relationships are ideal, and it isn't always the fault of angry and vindictive ex-wives.
Some men ``shut the door'' on themselves. Many show up on visitation days only when it's convenient for them, but they are the first to complain that their parental rights have been violated if the mother cannot change her plans to suit their whims. Others seldom call and never visit, but always blame their ex-wives because they have no relationship with their children.
Being a father requires only that one be present at the time of conception. Being a dad requires a lifetime commitment. Spending time with a child is important. A child cannot be fooled. Children know when they are dumped at grandma's or asked to spend holidays with relatives who have no interest in seeing them.
Sharing custody of a child is one thing; taking responsibility for the child's needs is another. A dad who loves his children will see to their needs, no matter who has custody. One who is the center of his own universe will not. Custody needs to be decided on on a case-by-case basis. Not everyone deserves that right.
BETTY H. PUGH
BLUE RIDGE
LENGTH: Medium: 92 linesby CNB