- April 19, 2024
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Dear Editor:
Why are people always looking to be "given" something? We have our own individual responsibility to make our own decisions. You don't need mandates. You need accountability and responsibility for you. I remember John F. Kennedy's quote: "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
This whole thing is so ridiculously political. Step back, look at what you can do.
How can you help besides bash and trash?
Responsibility trickles down the chain, and at the end is you. Feel you need a mask? Wear it. I do, and I've been vaccinated. I'm trying to do my part. No mandates required.
Laurie Leone
Port Orange
Dear Editor:
In the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” (a film 70 years old, taken from a short story by American author Philip Stern, who said the plot came to him in a dream), the main character, George Bailey, contemplates the meaning of his life. He has spent his entire life giving of himself to the people of Bedford Falls and now reflects morosely on his perceived failures. His compassion has been directed to helping ordinary people in his community, those who have mortgages and rents to pay, families to care for, without seeking self aggrandizement.
The story is relevant in today’s world. We want to see someone like George Bailey in the movies and in life, someone to inspire us and understand their regard for us is real, not feigned for personal ambition, connecting us with each other in groups that may not have otherwise socialized, someone whose ideas influence us to then extend ourselves to others. Essentially, to enhance us with their joy.
And so, I thank you, Gloria Max for being living proof that the George Baileys of the movies do exist.
Thank you for all the ways you have brought people together. Thank you for your knowledge and understanding at the Jewish Federation, knowing the importance of details in how to maintain and maximize food supplies, and other programs which results in 700-plus backpacks delivered with age-appropriate items, luncheons with thoughtful gifts (when they can resume) for the elderly; programs financed with extensive fundraising, radio appearances, newsletters, and, through it all, demonstrating how to appreciate all people — those who contribute and those who stand in line.
Thank you for writing and reading “thank you” letters. I’ll never forget hearing you read so poignantly some of the ones you received at a ceremony in order for others to hear what each dollar goes toward in making life less severe for the oppressed, reminding us how life’s events can quickly overtake ordinary people facing overwhelming difficulties and just how much your type of competent personalized outreach is critical during those times.
In your current Rosh Hashanah appeal, you quote the Talmud: "We rise by raising others, and he who bends over to aid the fallen, stands erect” — a mission reflected in your professional stature as director of the Jewish Federation.
During “It’s a Wonderful Life,” George is shown flashbacks of what his community would have looked like had it it not been for all his good deeds over the years. The movie ends with the townspeople surrounding him with love and support, toasting him as the “richest man in town” due to all his friends.
Thank you, Gloria, for your durability, regardless of health challenges and stressful times, for making our lives richer by being the one person we can count on to make a difference. May you continue to endure and endear!
Sarah Crane
Port Orange
Dear Editor:
The abandoned property formerly owned by the Duncan family on Old Kings Road was an excellent acquisition by the city of Ormond Beach. It is well worth the time and expense that it will take to remove the debris from the area and flush out the vagabonds who have taken up residence there.
But some may ask, is it "cost effective"? You bet it is. Clearing out what has become a garbage dump will give present and future residents a site that is in keeping with the rest of Central Park. This parcel was one of the last pieces of private property in an otherwise public park.
Whatever it costs to bring this area up to current standards is well worth the long-term benefit it provides to the city and its residents.
Suzanne Heddy
Ormond Beach
