Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, August 15, 1994 TAG: 9408150016
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Various products - refrigerators, freezers and grocery stores the size of roller-skating rinks - are relatively rare in Ireland. Lifestyles of the middle class and poor don't seem so vastly different as they seem at home. More marked is the history of the last great famine in Ireland, the exodus necessitated by crop failure, and the commandeering of successful crops by English landlords.
When I heard newscasts about Rwanda's suffering, they were followed by the mention of places where ordinary citizens could volunteer or give money. Newscasters read both the story and what people could do to help. Irish volunteers, speaking from camps and reporting on their work, were part of the regular news. Irish banks opened one Saturday morning (employees volunteered) to collect money for Rwanda refugees.
The answer to Rwanda's troubles is complex, and beyond the scope of most citizens. But giving money for supplies and transportation was made easy by the media in remotest Ireland.
ANN H. MARTYN FLOYD
Community can help curb violence
IN OUR society today, youngsters 12 and 15 years old are toting and using guns to settle conflicts, causing brutal deaths in the commission of crimes. The need for prevention of this youthful violence needs to be recognized immediately by us, the community. Prevention strategies need to be implemented.
Professionals could provide seminars on such subjects as cooperative learning and conflict resolution, which would give teen-agers a sense of belonging. Also, create school programs that will operate beyond regular school hours. This time could be used for educators and other experienced persons to help youth understand the reality of media violence, and its lasting affects on their behavior.
Society can rebound, and can reduce violence if our religious, social and professional leaders will take the initiative to assist our teen-agers.
OMAR T. RABB ROANOKE
Virginia Dare cruise is a winner
RECENTLY, I went with a group of 30 senior citizens from a local church on the Virginia Dare, and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Other individuals said they also enjoyed the cruise.
I was very apprehensive after reading the Aug. 5 ``Dining Out'' column by Dolores Kostelni, entitled ``Cruise by the lake for good food.''
The Virginia Dare is a clean, comfortable boat with appropriate decor, including furniture. I was served the same food as Ms. Kostelni was served. It was delicious and hot, and there were ample servings. The waitresses and waiters were very caring and competent, and the crew was efficient and made each person feel important.
The cruise director gave us pertinent information about Smith Mountain Lake, including some history. He wasn't shouting, and none of his information was lost in the rumble of the engines. I wish that Ms. Kostelni could have been with us. By the way, the dessert was German chocolate cake.
People who enjoy the water, beautiful scenery, quiet coves and good food will appreciate a cruise on the Virginia Dare.
GENEVA K. JENKINS ROANOKE
Oh, for a Truman to buck the trends
I ASK citizens to read this and ask themselves if they want to accept this any longer, or is it time to get our money's worth?
Burger Doodle employees who give you guff and the wrong food order.
Government employees who supposedly have master's degrees, and yet cannot write intelligible letters.
Slow service by every government agency, at all levels.
Free lawyers for criminals who appeal for as long as they want, for which we pay.
Lawyers who block the legal systems with their tactics.
The explosion of more illegitimate children who will be raised by who knows.
``Free'' medicine the government wants to give. There's no free lunch.
As for welfare, how many know that areas around Roanoke city do not have low-income housing? And if an indigent person should happen to be in any of the jurisdictions around the city, you can bet they'll not get a free lunch, but a quick shove and directions to Roanoke city.
We the people had better look around, or we'll be in the same shape as the people of Berlin, Moscow, Haiti and Rwanda found themselves. How I wish for a Harry Truman type, who would stand up and be counted, be totally accountable, and who doesn't own a shredder.
CHARLES P. HENRITZE ROANOKE
by CNB