Letters to the Editors

To police, emergency workers: Thank you for your selflessness

I wish this wouldn't have taken me so long to write. The events of Sept. 11 got me thinking again.

I certainly do not wish to take anything away from the brave individuals in New York who put their lives on the line in the terrible events that occurred that day. Rather, I wish to acknowledge the bravery of our firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians, and inform the people of Clearwater of how fortunate we are to have so many brave men and women serving our needs.

An event occurred a while back that affected my family. We had an explosion and fire in our home. Our son was severely injured in the fire with burns over 60 percent of his body.

Due to the courage, bravery and selflessness of many firefighters and police officers, our family is functioning again.

In particular, I wish to acknowledge two individuals: Officer David Krueger and EMT Greg Holding.

These two individuals went way beyond what their jobs required.

Both have displayed continuing interest in our son and his healing. For their concern, compassion and caring, I can only say thank you. They are what is best in our country.

We, as members of this community, should be proud and thankful to have such great men helping us.

At this time of year, we should all remember the great, individual heroes in our community who have decided to dedicate their lives to helping others.

I am sure there are many other men and women in these departments of equal bravery. To all of them, from my family and myself, thank you.
-- Ray Shaw, Clearwater

Largo Fire Department exceeds call of duty

This letter is a bit late in coming and for that we apologize. On Nov. 29 we had the misfortune of having an electrical fire in our oven. Although it was not a major fire, we had to call 911 to ensure our safety.

Minutes later the Largo Fire Department arrived and took care of our small dilemma. They were prompt, polite and professional. Even our dog Velvet enjoyed their company.

About half an hour or so after they left, the phone rang. It was one of the firefighters wanting to know if they could come by to remove the faulty element from the oven and get it replaced for us. We couldn't believe their offer.

But sure enough, that night they stopped by and removed the part. The next day they located the part and on Sunday came by to install it. Talk about going above and beyond the call of duty.

Knowing that Joyce and I are legally blind and that Velvet has no mechanical skills, they did this to ensure our safety and give us peace of mind. As they left, after refusing anything in return, they wished us a Merry Christmas.

Hopefully, your readers will appreciate the genuine concern that Largo Fire and Rescue has for its citizens.
-- Jeff Holzschuh and Joyce Roberts, Largo

Some other "animals' should be getting press

Dolphins, orangutans, llamas. Been a lot written this year about these creatures, always in the news. Got me to thinking about some other species that don't get as much press but should:

Pigs: They trash our roadways, streets and neighborhoods. Obviously never were trained to use receptacles, ashtrays or common courtesy.

Lemmings (and sheep): Work in numbers to maintain the status quo. Will blindly follow the piper and feel that there is always safety in numbers. They are right. They also never grow nor do they ever rearrange their furniture.

Cockroaches: They condone and carry out vicious and unprovoked attacks against our country and people. They do get a lot of press but are never referred to as "cockroaches," as that term may offend other "insects."

Snakes: They slither and dart in and out of traffic, usually at a high rate of speed, on our busy streets. They usually do make the news (somewhere along U.S. 19). A real health hazard. Some are using cell phones.

Donkeys: They have a severe aversion to the words Christmas, Santa and God. Warning: Just a few can affect the lives and traditions of the majority. Known to make some local officials cave.

Merry Christmas. God bless America. Can't wait for Santa!
-- Mike DePrisco, Clearwater

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