Comprehensive mental health education needed in schools
I am writing to express my dedicated support for the implementation of comprehensive mental health education programs in our schools. As mental health issues among young people continue to rise, we must equip students with the knowledge and resources they need to understand and manage their mental health effectively.
Research indicates that early intervention and education can significantly reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. By integrating mental health education into the school curriculum, we can foster a more supportive and informed environment for students. This education should cover topics such as stress management, recognizing the signs of mental health problems, and knowing how to seek help.
Furthermore, schools should provide access to qualified mental health professionals who can offer support and guidance to students. These professionals can play a vital role in identifying issues early and providing the necessary interventions.
In addition to the benefits for students, educating young people about mental health can have a positive ripple effect throughout the community. When students are well-informed, they are more likely to engage in open and supportive conversations with their peers and family members, contributing to a broader culture of understanding and empathy.
I urge policymakers, educators and community leaders to prioritize mental health education and allocate the necessary resources to support these initiatives. By doing so, we can help ensure that our young people are equipped to lead healthy, balanced lives and contribute positively to society.
Jacob Forsythe
Hagerstown
Don't let obsession with politics tear us apart
I am not sure what is happening to people in our country. I've never seen such nastiness in my life regardless of your political situation. Life is just too short to be so angry and hateful.
Families, friends and co-workers are torn apart when there is an obsession with political views. For example: My sister is a Biden supporter which is fine. If she disagrees with what you say, she will tell you, "I don't believe you, I will have to fact check you on that." I am like, "What the hell." I will then show her proof why I said what I did! She will never admit she is wrong.
In my opinion, this political negativity on any candidate is just not necessary.
I love the U.S.A.
Judy Holland
Hedgesville, W.Va.
Fairplay fire company needs support of community
The Community Volunteer Fire Company of District 12 out of Fairplay in Washington County, Maryland, is in the midst of their annual fund drive. While they receive some financial assistance from the Washington County Board of County Commissioners, many county residents do not realize that Washington County does not impose a fire tax or fire service fee.
The fire company is entirely dependent on grants and the generosity of neighbors and supporters to cover expenses for the purchase and maintenance of equipment for their firefighters, and for the upkeep of their fire department and banquet hall on Tilghmanton Road in Fairplay. The banquet hall is also an important source of fundraising, as they rent the hall to other groups and use it for their own fundraisers, including a monthly bingo game, meat bash and a variety of other events.
Currently, Company 12 has embarked on a significant fundraising project to purchase a new fire truck — estimated cost of which is $898,000. They are also in the middle of their annual fund drive, proceeds from which go to support the invaluable efforts to protect the Fairplay community and surrounding area. You can go to their website here to contribute to their worthy projects and to learn more about Company 12, including how you can become a member: https://www.fairplayvfc.com/.
While fundraising letters are sent to all the households and businesses in the Fairplay service area, the return generally ranges from about 12% to 14% of those addresses — it would be great to see an increase this year! Any contributions are greatly appreciated, and the company gives thanks, always, to those who have already donated, this year and in past years.
Pat Miller
Member, Company 12
Fairplay
Lack of leadership doomed Saint Maria Goretti
I had lunch with a friend from Towson last week. During our conversation, he related a story to me. It rang true given the recent story locally about the closing of Saint Maria Goretti.
Maryvale is a Catholic all girls school in the Towson area. A friend of Bob's had just retired from the board of Maryvale, and Bob was appointed to replace him.
At Bob’s first board meeting, he learned that Maryvale had severe financial problems. Being new, he listened. At the end of the discussion the solution offered was “to close the school.”
Upon hearing that, Bob raised his hand and spoke. His opening words were, “I can’t believe what I am hearing.” He then went on saying, “I have not heard anyone offer any possible solutions.”
The whole discussion lamented the problems, but no one offered any ideas on how to investigate ways to solve the problems. Bob’s comments changed the discussion, and the approach to Maryvale’s situation and its difficulties. In a simple word, it's called leadership.
Today, years later, Maryvale is a thriving Catholic school for girls in the sixth through the 12th grades. Its enrollment is 441, an average of 63 girls per grade. Its tuition is $24,400 per year.
On June 30, 2024, Saint Maria Goretti will lock the doors. But it did not have to be. For anyone with experience in organizations, Goretti’s problems are easy to identify.
The problem is not enrollment nor is it finances. It is failed leadership at the top.
When the Baltimore diocese was forced to spend millions each year to keep Goretti afloat, anyone with any brains at all would have known the situation was unsustainable long term. The diocese had major liabilities due to the priest scandal. But no one at Goretti raised their hand.
Len Lindenmeyer
Waynesboro, Pa.
Trump only cares about getting money from oil companies
As extreme weather due to climate change accelerates, we have one candidate for president who wants to make it even worse.
His plan is to open more areas to drill for fossil fuels and use fewer renewables.
What this says to me is the only thing he cares about is the money he gets from oil companies.
James Griffin
Waynesboro, Pa.
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