Bike lane on Main

Bike lane on Main

The bike project on Main Street in Annapolis presents yet another reason (besides existing traffic congestion and poor parking) to avoid going there if you can possibly avoid it.

ANITA HEYGSTER

Pasadena

Contempt of Congress

I have viewed bits and pieces of the congressional confirmation hearing on Judge Brett Kavanaugh over the last few days. I can only tolerate limited exposure to the theatrics since I have high blood pressure and even short exposure to "the show" raises it.

I believe what we are seeing is a disservice to our nation's young people when they witness a steady dose of rudeness, disrespect, "throwing away of the rules" for proper decorum, and condescending behavior by the very body that should be demonstrating the high ideals that have made our country great.

This is particularly disheartening when our society increasingly stresses the need to be aware of "bullying" and to stand up and protect those that are bullied. Is it a stretch to consider the behavior demonstrated by some of the confirmation committee members to be bullying?

Another point to consider is this. A judge can declare an individual to be in contempt of court when "their behavior opposes or defies the authority, justice, and dignity of the court." Likewise, an individual might be declared in contempt of Congress when "the person's conduct or action obstructs the proceedings of Congress, or, more usually, an inquiry by a committee of Congress."

So, consider this question: In light of the disrespectful, rude, and anything but civil conduct we have seen played out for "prime time viewing," is our the Senate Judiciary Committee itself guilty of bullying and contempt of Congress?

Our nation and our future leaders deserve better than this. Shame on those that have yet to learn how to speak and act with civility.

RON CHAMBLESS

Annapolis

Boycott the NFL

I think Dale Skoch has it right - and all wrong (The Capital, Aug. 17). The NFL should be boycotted, but not for allowing players to "take a knee." Gridiron gouging is beyond the pale. Rupturing bloated corporate wallets sounds like a noble objective.

But let's not confuse that with the much greater concern - freedom.

Skoch is looking for a uniform homogeneous patriotism. The peculiar American notion of freedom has always allowed for differences and disagreements. To suggest that those who dissent are not patriots runs contrary to this accepted philosophy. When the reality of life in this country does not live up to cherished ideals, symbols, like the flag, become meaningless and the sentimentality rings hollow.

To "take a knee" is not about disrespect. It's about the freedom to express a personal opinion. It's not about dishonoring anyone who in whatever way ... war or peace or protest ... helped shape our nation for the better. Decency is not standing with hand over heart for our flag. Decency is making sure our neighbors are fed, clothed, educated, healthy, safe and treated equally under the law. This is the promise of America, symbolized by our flag - a promise broken to so many that the flag should hang limply in shame.

Yes, it is political. We have a profane, morally bankrupt president and a majority congress full of "yes men" who continue to gut the liberties of citizenship.

If you want respect for our flag, and people to reflect the sanctity of our nation, Mr. Skoch, as do I, perhaps we both need to work harder to ensure the American hallmarks of freedom, equality and justice for all become a reality. Maybe then we can all celebrate together ... in whatever way we each choose.

MARY-BETH PHILLIPS

Annapolis

Cancer walk

I was reading the newspaper when I saw the letter to the editor submitted by Jim Long. I realized that the event in which Jim wrote about, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition Run/Walk, coincided with the HEAT IT TO BEAT IT WALK that was held on the same day.

As a peritoneal carcinomatosis cancer survivor of two years, I can appreciate the support from the community to bring awareness for both types of cancers that ironically have many similarities with each disease.

The HEAT IT TO BEAT IT walk differentiates itself through the support, education, and funds for HIPEC surgery, short for hyperthermic intraperitoneal Chemotherapy. It's amazing that many physicians' treating patients with advanced stages of abdominal cancer do not know what HIPEC is.

Basically, it's a solution added directly to the abdominal cavity during surgery that destroys and kills cancer cells and enhances the effects of chemotherapy. Dr. Armando Sardi and Dr. Vadim Gushchin are surgical oncologists that perform HIPEC surgeries at Mercy Medical Hospital in Baltimore.

Dr. Teresa Diaz-Montes is part of their oncology team, and works at Ann Arundel Medical Center, as well as Mercy, in the Gynecology Oncology Department.

This year's HITBI event is scheduled at 7:30 a.m. Sept. 23 at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. To register, form a team, or make a donation, visit www.heat-it.org. Come out and walk for a great cause, and don't forget to "talk to the animals."

THERESA PUHER

Davidsonville

Defining abortion

Mary Hendrie was correct when she stated that it was her "right" as a woman, a citizen, and a thinking human being to kill a "preborn child" (The Capital, Sept. 3). We all have free will. Except for the child in the womb. This woman, citizen, and thinking human being understands the reason why she stated "shoddy religious reasoning" as unacceptable.

She just doesn't want to admit that abortion is murder. When did murder become shoddy?

SUZANNE FARMER

Davidsonville

McCain and Trump

The stark contrast in character between John McCain, a genuine American hero, and President Donald Trump is obvious. Nothing more needs to be said.

Fair winds and following seas to you John McCain.

BRIAN McVEIGH

Annapolis

Where are the features?

I miss Wendi Winters every Saturday when I pick up the Homes section only to find there is no write up on a local home of interest.

Do I really care about a dream home in the woods near Seattle, Washington (The Capital, Aug. 25)? I want to know about one in the Annapolis area on the front page where they used to be when Wendi was doing them. I also miss the Teen of the Week articles.

With all the talented young reporters that Rob Hiassen mentored, isn't there one that could take up Wendi's baton and run with it?

ALICE CHAMBERS

Annapolis

Editor's Note: We are moving to return both the Home of the Week and Teen of the Week features. We miss Wendi, too.