Letters and Comments for June 8, 2009

Miller, Grove

Focus on family activities

To the Editor:

I challenge the families of Union County to take action and get involved — in themselves.

There are many problems arising that families have never faced before. Over the past few decades life’s been moving faster, it has become more difficult to make ends meet and children are growing up in working-family homes more than ever. Going out for fast food is quicker than eating with your family; children are staying inside watching television and playing video games more than I did as a kid only 15 years ago, and their health is suffering.

If we don’t do something soon, these problems will only become worse in future generations. We need to value ourselves and our families more by taking better care of them.

My husband and I were involved in our son’s school this past year. These things not only keep kids off the couch, they also provide free ways to show our kids we care and are willing to take time out for them.

I challenge you to walk your family down to the farmers market and support your health, our community and spend some extra time with your family.

We also have some excellent parks in this valley, and when my family goes we are often the only ones there. Come play with us! Show that you value community by showing up to the many community-sponsored activities or by going to the library to check books out rather than the video store for another movie or game. Participate in your child’s education one extra day a month. Just because school’s out doesn’t mean they stop learning! Sit down to a nutritious dinner an extra night with your family.

Being a family means just that: being with your family!

Cami Miller

La Grande

Facilitating communication

To the Editor:

I loved the new column by Dorothy Fleshman! Her May 22 contribution has me looking forward to hearing more from her!

I am in anticipation of more word walks into the world of this woman who has already earned my respect and affection. My respect, because she speaks with intelligence and articulation and acute observation. My affection because her writing voice has warmth and contentedness and welcome, a difficult thing for some younger, got-something-to-prove writers to pull off!

Once again The Observer is serving this community well by facilitating more worthwhile communication between generations.

Her column looks to be an excellent addition to the terrific cast of characters who are already regular contributors.

Well done!

A still-devoted Observer fan.

Vicki Grove

La Grande