Thank you, Annapolis
I am writing this letter first, to the people of Annapolis, Maryland, in appreciation and admiration of everyone that was involved in making the commissioning of the naval warship USS Sioux City so extraordinary and successful.
As one of hundreds of people traveling from my hometown of Sioux City, Iowa I personally wanted to let you know, for the brief time that I was a tourist in your city, you made Annapolis, feel like a very welcoming hometown. Every single person that I had the pleasure of speaking with, whether from exploring Annapolis’ Historic District, eating breakfast at the Iron Rooster or all of the workers throughout the Naval Academy were friendly and made sure that any Sioux Citian was welcomed with open arms.
My late grandfather, Jerome Jungers, served in the United States Navy during World War II. He, like so many other current and former members of the Navy, would be so proud that there was a ship named after a Midwest town like Sioux City, Iowa.
Secondly, I am writing this letter to the men and women that serve this great nation at the United States Naval Academy. Your individual dedication to this country, self-sacrifice for others and fierce bravery will not only help keep USS Sioux City afloat but will secure the prosperity of our nation for centuries to come.
I assure you, that although our cities are over 1,200 miles apart, your support from Sioux City will be unwavering.
JAKE JUNGERS
Sioux City, Iowa
Lake Shore Elementary
I disagree with the outcome of the incident in which a long-term substitute was suspended after taping a disobedient student to chair, and the culture at Lake Shore Elementary (The Capital, Dec. 1).
When children leave home and spend their next hours in school, they are to understand the teacher is the authority. Fooling around is out of line. To tolerate otherwise begins a culture of: hmm, what can I get away with, or teachers aren’t to be taken seriously.
In today’s world, school environment is difficult enough and students need to obey instructions should an emergency arise.
The letter sent home stressed that children are to be embraced, loved and nurtured. However, they left out the part regarding any respect for the teacher whose job it is to impart knowledge.
For the student, this begins the learning curve of life and should be explained to the parents. Need I point out ongoing incidents of teacher abuse in Baltimore City by students who obviously have no respect for authority.
So what did the child learn from this incident? I say let this incident become a learning moment for the child.
ELAINE PHILLIPS
Millersville
President George H.W. Bush
An example of the class and statesmanship of President George H.W. Bush was his letter to Bill Clinton on Jan. 20, 1993 which read as follows:
“Dear Bill,
“When I walked into this office just now I felt the same sense of wonder and respect that I felt four years ago. I know you will feel that, too.
“I wish you great happiness here. I never felt the loneliness some Presidents have described.
“There will be tough times, made even more difficult by criticism you may not think is fair. I’m not a very good one to give advice; but just don’t let the critics discourage you or push you off course.
“You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well.
“Your success now is our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.
Good Luck –
George”
Our nation will miss him.
Del. MICHAEL MALONE
Gambrills
Messiah sing-along
They came, clutching their worn scores of Handel’s Messiah, ready to sing — for the 32nd time without rehearsal — the Christmas parts of the popular oratorio.
For three decades, The Capital has supported and encouraged this community tradition of a sing-along at St. James’ Church in Lothian.
More than 200 singers and listeners filled this historic church built in 1763, just 21 years after the Messiah’s first performance to benefit the poor. This impromptu performance also benefits the poor through a free will offering for the Salvation Army. The March 10 seventh Sing-Along of the Lenten and Easter parts of the Messiah will benefit the Community Assistance Fund.
When the final notes of the Hallelujah chorus are sung, the singers break into applause and laughter, celebrating a great tradition of community caring.
VAL HYMES
Annapolis
