LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Addicted babies need attention
6/26/2014I was pleased to see that the problem of babies who are born addicted to drugs received attention in The Blade (“Toledo sees rise in addicted babies; Opioid, heroin epidemic strains hospitals’ resources,” June 15).
I encourage The Blade to investigate the long-term effects on children who are prenatally exposed to drugs and alcohol, and how that may impact their cognitive, social, and emotional development. This development is especially important as these children enter preschool and kindergarten.
It is imperative that educators understand the possible effects of prenatal exposure to drugs and alcohol, and be given the knowledge and skills to provide appropriate intervention techniques, so children can be successful throughout their school years and beyond.
MARY TOBER
Sylvania Township
Editor’s note: The writer is a former Toledo Public Schools special education teacher and former Sylvania Schools special education coordinator.
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U.S. must beware of prodding Russia
The United States should be careful about waving a stick in front of the Russian bear (“U.S. to boost its presence in Europe; In visit to Poland, Obama pledges $1B for defense” June 4). Russia may not be the powerhouse it once was, but like a cornered animal, it can be dangerous to provoke.
How would Americans react if Russia announced that it will establish a military presence in Guatemala and pledge $1 billion for the defense of that country and its neighbors Mexico, Belize, and Honduras?
ROBERT KELSO
Sylvania Township
To those who rip G.I.: Join Army
I’m sick of the whining about the release of U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl (“Questions abound in G.I.’s release,” Readers’ Forum, June 18). As the son of a former prisoner of war, I can tell you that torture, both physical and psychological, affects these men the rest of their lives.
My father was a prisoner of the Nazis for 28 months in World War II. He was fed rotten potatoes and denied decent medical care. I’m sure Sergeant Bergdahl also fared poorly under the Taliban.
The sergeant was a hero just to put on the uniform. Whoever disagrees should board the next flight to Afghanistan.
KENNETH PARKS
Temperance
Column unfairly rips 2 systems
Blade columnist Keith Burris’ June 5 commentary “Angels of mercy make the difference” was a bitter tirade against local justice and health-care systems.
His generalized criticism casts a cloud over the well-recognized quality of service provided to the community in the areas of health care and law enforcement.
HOWARD MADIGAN
Sylvania Township