THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, March 30, 1995 TAG: 9503280085
SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS PAGE: 07 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: Long : 106 lines
AWED BY `ANYTHING GOES'
Recently, I was in the Virginia Beach/Norfolk area on business (my first time there!) and during my stay I decided to attend the Virginia Stage Company, where I thought I would be seeing a professional production of Cole Porter's ``Anything Goes.''
Shortly after arriving at the theater I realized that it was a high school venture. Reluctantly, I bought a ticket. Well, there are few words to express my fascination with what I saw on that stage. This production was one of the most exciting and professional ventures that I have seen in some time, and I attend Broadway theater monthly. To think that the cast consisted of only high school students baffles me; from the glorious scenery and costumes to the polished dancing, this ``Anything Goes'' was truly remarkable!
The next time I hear that there is nothing creative or worthwhile happening in the public schools, I will think of your efforts in Hampton Roads. You are very fortunate to have such an outstanding program in your community.
Rose Olivito
New York City
THIS CUT IS TOO DEEP< Being a youth worker, I became disturbed to learn that the federally funded program for youths is proposing to cut 1 million jobs for ages 15 through 21.
This will create tremendous problems for our youth. Inner-city youth will be hit the hardest. Idle time will be very evident in our cities. It will cost cities more money to treat problems that are going to occur because more youths will be on the streets.
It is important that youth develop their potential early in life in order to prepare them for today's job market. As part of my youth employment program, I teach youth to prepare for a job market that will be non-existent. Think of all the skills and advantages our youth gain by taking advantage of federally funded programs.
We have had outstanding workers at the Southside Boys and Girls Club who have been through this program. Non-profit organizations need these youths to assist in their programs. Agencies are not able to afford large staffs.
Are we prepared to spend more money on intervention? Or are we prepared to continue to work diligently to produce productive citizens in society. Work is a basic discipline for youth; let's not deny them this precious opportunity.
Connie Hamn
Program director
Southside Boys Club
IN SUPPORT OF CHIEF HIGH
We are deeply disturbed by the verbal attacks on Norfolk Police Chief Melvin C. High and wish to add our voices in support of him.
We really do not expect to see our police chief walking around neighborhoods. What Chief High has done, which is far more important to us, is to ensure the visibility and community involvement of the Norfolk police patrols under his command. This reflects good leadership and management.
During Chief High's leadership our neighborhood has experienced two very important changes in the Norfolk police force: improved response time and a significant reduction in crime and associated activity, resulting from the establishment and effective implementation of the PACE Program. In addition, while we are taking a look at the Norfolk Police Department, maybe we should give some thought to putting more emphasis on hiring Norfolk residents.
V.A. Fenwick
President
Barbersville Homeowners Association
FAMILY DOESN'T NEED THIS
On March 2, my brother was shot and killed in the city of Norfolk. I would like to start this letter by saying that my family and I have nothing but the highest regard for the Norfolk Police Department and the two detectives who handled the case. They were professional, compassionate and kept us informed every step of the way. In my opinion, they lived up to their reputation for excellence.
The city of Norfolk also lived up to its ``reputation.'' My brother was driving my father's car when he was killed and the city impounded the car for almost two weeks despite repeated phone calls from my father asking when we could pick it up. On March 13, my father received a bill from the city for a $30 towing charge plus $2 a day for every day the car was impounded.
I realize the city needs money to pay for its newest white elephant (Nauticus), but I would like to suggest that they not do it by taking blood money from the families of victims of violent crime.
Ellen A. Petersheim
St. George Avenue
GRAY'S PHARMACY LAUDED
Gray's Pharmacy on Hampton Boulevard should be commended for its exemplary concern and dedication to the local community.
On March 17, the Norfolk Academy headmaster notified parents of all students that a second student at the academy had been diagnosed with meningococcal disease. On the recommendation of the State Public Health Department, the drug Rifampin should be taken by all who might have been exposed to the disease.
By 6 p.m. of the same day, supplies of the medication in the Norfolk area had been exhausted. But David Halla, pharmacist and owner of Gray's Drugstore, sent to Maryland for emergency supplies. Both David and Sylvia Halla stayed at the store that night until well after midnight to assure that the medication would be available to everyone who wanted it.
I am extremely grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Halla and to their employees for their kind sensitivity and consistently selfless service that makes our neighborhood a wonderful place to live.
Jean S. Booton
Richmond Crescent by CNB