THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, October 6, 1996 TAG: 9610040218
SECTION: PORTSMOUTH CURRENTS PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 70 lines
I just finished reading the article in the Business section about the cruise ship docking in Norfolk (``Cruise ship calls at Downtown Norfolk, Sept. 28'').
The article states that the ship will return Nov. 2.
I think Portsmouth Tourism officials will be remiss in their duties if they do not have a tour arranged for groups of tourists from the ship to visit Portsmouth by crossing on the ferry, being met by a trolley to tour the beautiful houses available in Olde Towne. Or, at least, a tour of the downtown museums or the wonderful galleries.
Given the date, perhaps the Ghost Walk could schedule a tour as well. This seems like too good an opportunity to pass up.
If the tourists liked Norfolk, they would love Portsmouth.
The cruise was listed as a Colonial Cruise and Portsmouth has more colonial history concentrated in a small area than any of our immediate neighbors.
Why spend two hours on a bus or in a cab to see Williamsburg when there is so much to see and do right across the river? I hope someone in the proper office agrees and can muster plans to capitalize on this soon.
Janet M. Petersen
Goose Bay Drive
Sept. 28, 1996 Students need to know
I was appalled at the article in the Sept. 27 Currents, School Bulletin Board, concerning Dr. Richard Trumble and the School Board rejecting the idea of allowing Sunshine Health Clinic staff to discuss sex-related topics with students.
This only convinces me more that Dr. Trumble and the School Board are not aware of the serious problem in this city concerning teen-age pregnancy, low birth weight infants, infant mortality and the high incidence of sexually transmitted disease. They are also not aware that the mandated Family Life Education curriculum in the Portsmouth schools is so watered down that students do not even realize that they are getting the course.
The administration and the School Board have taken the stance that this should be left to the community. Well, the statistics show that this is not working. There are organizations in this city who have been trying to provide education to lower those sad statistics, but every time they try to do something in the schools, they are rejected. Dr. Trumble, School Board, wake up and smell the coffee. You have the population that needs the knowledge, and if you can't do it, at least let those who can give it a try.
V.W. ``Vic'' Goodman
Tatem Avenue
Sept. 27, 1996 Praise for Maryview
Our 7-year-old daughter just had her tonsils removed at Maryview. The operating area was clean, bright and appeared to have the most modern equipment. The waiting area was comfortable, newly furnished, staffed by a friendly and courteous volunteer and had complimentary coffee. Following a successful operation, a variety of nurses and other staff members showed genuine care and helpfulness, checking regularly to make sure the recovery went well.
After we returned home, hospital staff called to check on our daughter's recovery and to offer helpful suggestions. They were cheerful and pleasant.
We could not be more pleased with the quality of care our family received at Maryview. This fine hospital is to be commended.
G. Timothy Oksman
Replica Lane
Sept. 26, 1996 by CNB