Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, March 29, 1994 TAG: 9403300129
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Taxpayers could save a large percentage of welfare costs for unwed teen-age mothers if these were shifted to the teen-age father's parents. The mother of even her first illegitimate child could be denied any support unless she identified the father.
Then, if he were a teen-ager, his parents could be held responsible for child support of their grandchild until their own son's 18th birthday. Parents are legally responsible that long for their own children. They would then have a decided financial incentive to talk to their teen-aged children beforehand to avoid being saddled with extra child support.
DAN H. PLETTA BLACKSBURG
Let students decide what to believe
I ATTEND high school at Christian Heritage Academy. Our teachers emphasize the theory of creation, but also tell us about evolution. Therefore, we're able to make our own decision on what we believe.
As a Christian, I believe God created the universe and everything in it. Creation and evolution are both theories and should be taught as such, but it's hard to teach two theories when states only allow one. As American citizens, we should be shown both ideas and then given a choice.
Instead of teachers stuffing one theory down our throats, why not have students listen to both points of view?
LAURA VERBLE ROANOKE
Appalling to put amusement first
IT'S APPALLING that our Virginia legislature would put the tourism industry above the needs of schools in Roanoke and the rest of Western Virginia. When Kings Dominion completely funds education in our area, only then should it be allowed to determine our school calendar. How can we expect to provide a world-class education for our children when we put the amusement industry's interests ahead of the interests of schools?
JIM and CARLA SELVEY ROANOKE
His experience is a plus for Salem
THE SALEM Professional Firefighters Association, Local 3478 of the International Association of Firefighters, proudly endorses Garry Lautenschlager for Salem City Council. He's been a good friend to firefighters for many years through his long service with the Salem Rescue Squad. He's a man of unquestionable honesty and integrity, and possesses a strong devotion to his family, his church and community service.
Lautenschlager has a history of involvement with various civic groups and community activities. He's received numerous awards and honors over the past several years, the latest of which is Salem's key to the city. As a past employee of Salem city and former chief of the rescue squad, he has a unique perspective on our government's operation. As a graduate of Andrew Lewis High School and Roanoke College with a bachelor's degree in urban studies, he's educationally prepared to take an active role in decisions that affect our citizens.
He'll bring to City Council a clear understanding of our community's needs in the area of delivery of emergency services, as well as a thorough knowledge of other services provided by our local government. With experience he's gained through his occupation and community-service activities, he's proved he has leadership skills necessary to be an effective City Council member.
JIM CLIFTON President, Salem Professional Firefighters Association Local 3478 SALEM
Media try to play judge and jury
REMEMBER ``Jaws''? After seeing the movie, we always thought about that great shark lurking just beneath the water every time we got near the ocean.
Well, stay away from newspapers and television; the media are in a feeding frenzy. They pit Democrats against Republicans (and vice versa), knowing full well they're simply stirring up controversy and not really solving any problem or contributing anything to our world. The media's questions are leading. Who knows? Maybe somebody will accidentally share some world-shattering news, so they keep harping on the same subject.
Look, you news guys, I want answers, too. Let us know the problem, and let it rest until you have some answers. Then let us know. Stop trying to be judge and jury.
Meantime, to fill in news reports, look around for good news. We'd all love to hear some.
EDITH MARTIN ROANOKE
Kindness isn't out of style
WE HEAR and read so much bad news on television and in newspapers that it was so nice to read about kindness in the Roanoke Times & World-News (March 6 Extra section article, ``Just when you thought there was a shortage of kindness'' by staff writer Kathy Wilson).
The Bible says ``Be ye kind one to another.'' If we'd practice this more often, our world would be a better place.
Thanks for letting people know there is kindness in the world.
FRANCES GROGAN BUCHANAN
by CNB