Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, June 2, 1994 TAG: 9406020042
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-12 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Long
Do Virginians know that in the class were not only males from many other states besides Virginia, but also from the Republic of China, Thailand and Indonesia? Do we want to deny entrance to half of the best, brightest and toughest of the American population just because they're female? Does Virginia want to use its tax dollars to support the Republic of China's citizens when half of ours cannot even walk on the VMI campus without special invitation?
In the real world, VMI stands alone as having the best network of alumni. It has produced more presidents of corporations per capita than any other higher-learning institution, according to VMI's superintendent. This success is a direct cause and effect of the alumni network. To deny women the right to attend this state-supported institution is to acknowledge that they're not equal; therefore, they're relegated to second-class-citizen status.
Regardless of our governor's vocalizations on states' rights, the U.S. Constitution has very specific prohibitions against delegating second-class status on anyone due to inherited gene pool. And to allow foreign students to attend a state-supported school places them above all American women in status. Is this what Virginians want?
BARBARA J. KOLB
EAGLE ROCK
A critical moment is at hand
INTEGRITY (uprightness, honesty and sincerity), fidelity (faithful devotion to duty, obligations or vows; loyalty) and honor (a keen sense of right and wrong, adherence to principles).
As Democrats and Republicans prepare to select their senatorial candidates, I pray they reflect upon the words listed above and their meanings. As Virginians, we have a right to expect elected leaders to not only profess these virtues but to live by them. If their private and public lives don't bear witness to these attributes, we must reject them.
Do we need or want candidates tainted by felony convictions, dishonest conduct, lies, scandal and indiscretions? Does previous service, electability, media appeal, name recognition and fund-raising ability outweigh ethical conduct? If individuals cannot honor and live by personal and professional vows or work within our laws' boundaries, they shouldn't be empowered to make laws.
In a state noted for producing leaders of honor and integrity, it's ironic and tragic that two major political parties could consider nominating Oliver North and Chuck Robb.
We're witnessing our society's moral and political decay, but it can be reversed if action is taken now. It's time Virginians sent a blunt, clear, uncompromising message to political parties and their candidates: If you desire to seek and hold public office, make sure your public and private house is in order, and keep it that way.
We owe the memory of Virginia's past generations no less, and we cannot afford to accept less for present and future generations. We'll leave a legacy based on courage or complacency. Will it be mediocrity or greatness? Political expediency, or political integrity and honor? I hope and trust we have the wisdom and conviction of principles to make the proper choice.
BARRY TURPIN
GOODE
Paying the city to go dancing
A MEETING was held at the Buena Vista Recreation Center on May 20. Approximately 30 senior citizens attended. The purpose was to inform us that lack of interest and declining numbers had forced changes in the dance program. In July, admission will be $6.50 per person, up from $4.50, to comply with the new city budget. This will be on a trial basis to see if it's supported. No one told us to whom we could appeal - the city manager, who presents the budget, or City Council.
The increase will be small for some, but a burden to others. The program has existed for approximately 20 years. In the beginning, the rate was about $1, including refreshments, with average attendance of 80. Many came, but didn't dance. They enjoyed the fellowship, refreshments and music. When the rate went to $3, those on small Social Security checks no longer attended.
The feeling I got from the meeting was that senior citizens were unhappy with this change, and they think the city's trying to take something from them. They know that the city is solvent, that they pay taxes, and that citizens gave valuable land and property (like Buena Vista, the Fishburn home, etc.) to the city for its citizens to enjoy.
Why should there be a fee? Is there a city sports or city park fee? Why can't the budget be increased to support a healthy program?
CECIL K. STIFF
ROANOKE
by CNB