Democrat and Chronicle from Rochester, New York • Page 13

Speaking Out DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE FRIDAY, JULY 28, 2000 13A LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Honor black troops for helping Roosevelt take San Juan Hill tion choose to remember the past. Less generally remembered is that sadly the Spanish-American War took place at the height of Jim Crow a set of assumptions and laws that institutionalized racial discrimination. The war experience was a mirror of the times. In that era, regiments were required to have white officers. When war came, the African-American press vehemently protested "No Officers, No Fight" was the motto but to no avail from disaster.

The white press rarely gave the black soldiers their proper due, although Roosevelt himself wrote that, "no troops could have behaved better than the colored soldiers had behaved so far." Unfortunately, Roosevelt qualified his praise "but they (the black troopers) are, of course, peculiarly dependent upon their white officers" a contention that was contradicted by the actual reports of both black and white soldiers themselves. ir, ir DAVID KRAMER GUEST ESSAYIST Last Saturday the Democrat and Chronicle reported that then-Lieut CoL Theodore Roosevelt has been recommended for the Medal of Honor 102 years later for his brav ery under tire during the famous charge up San Juan Hill. Historians have speculated that this honor was withheld because of Roosevelt's criticism of the McKinley administration. But it seems that Teddy will have to wait just a bit longer. The medal will not be bestowed by President Clinton until after the November election.

Why? It just so happens that Rep. Rick Lazio spearheaded the campaign, and the White House is apparently leery of providing a national audience for Mr. Lazio who just happens to be running for the U.S. Senate against Mr. Clinton's wife.

Like then, like now, politics as usual Or is there more to the story? As a scholar of the period, I am keenly aware of how lit i i War 1898 War of 1898. Docto The image of rough-riding Roosevelt on horseback survives in our collective memory a hotel chain uses the image to advertise comfortable rooms. But little else. From my viewpoint, Mr. Lazio whether he is then a senator-elect or not will have a unique chance to offer public commentary on those long-lost times.

The official ceremony should be more than simply awarding a posthumous medal but can be made into an opportunity for discussing how we as a na- African-American troons in Cuba during the Soanish i shown documentary The Different Drum- What's your view? We welcome your comments. All submissions must include your full name, address and daytime telephone number. Limit letters to fewer than 175 words. To write a longer essay, contact Speaking Out page editor M. Kathleen Wagner, 258-2414.

Address: Democrat and Chronicle, 55 Exchange Rochester 14614; fax: 258-2356; TTY line: 258-2510; Opinions phone: 258-2401. dceditpageSDemocratandChronicle.com Concerts that promote violence hurt the city On July 13, the "Up in Smoke" tour resounded through the Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial, promoting messages of rape, violence and death. I believe Rochester is making a mistake promoting and funding shows like this. The concerts, which feature such artists as Eminem, who has been charged with weapons possession, and other artists who openly promote and advocate criminal behavior, are only hurting the city's image and credibility. These concerts are known for targeting a specific audience the children of our community.

The city's funding of these events only furthers the violence that lawmakers like myself have continually struggled to end. The city must continue to promote entertainment that contains family values and is suitable for all in the area. Violence is a severe problem throughout the entire country, and Rochester should set an example for the nation with the termination of funding for events such as the "Up in Smoke" tour. We must focus on our family values rather than getting caught up in the profits that these types of shows could bring. TRACY L.LOGEL CHILI LogeL R-Chili, represents the 3rd District in the Monroe County Legislature.

Use tobacco money to fight smoking I fail to see the connection between cigarette monies paid to Monroe County, the city of Rochester and a zoo! I thought these monies were to make up for the death and sickness caused by cigarettes and not to become the current administration's personal bank account. If they can't think of how to utilize these monies, here's an idea. How about doing something for minors who are already hooked on nicotine. I'm sure many of them don't know where to go and don't have funds to get off this nicotine habit. In effect, they're left to fall through the cracks.

Use these monies to fund a smoking cessation program for minors. GARY W.SAN KEY PITTSFORD Hillary Clinton is as caring as was Eleanor Roosevelt Voters in and around Rochester and Monroe County are in an excellent position to vote for Hillary Rodham Clinton to be their new senator from New York state. I lived in Rochester for more than 30 years. The only U.S. Senator we ever saw much of from election to election, of either party, was Ken Keating because he lived in Brighton.

Otherwise, every other U.S. senator forgot the way between campaigns. Hillary Rodham Clinton is the closest I have ever seen to the character and caring of Eleanor Roosevelt. Those old enough to remember Eleanor Roosevelt will remember what she did for the people of the District of Columbia and the people of the United States. I am very fortunate to cherish a wonderful memory of her.

In 1938, as a student at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., I was in a round table discussion that Mrs. Roosevelt moderated. Hillary Rodham Clinton has been a great force for children, women, health care, thoughtfulness and caring for all people. Rochester's economy needs serious help. Layoffs are not an answer.

Her opponent, Rick Lazio, is a true believer in Gingrich politics. He will be like Jacob Javits, Al D'Amato, Daniel Patrick Moynihan and James Buckley senators who saw western New York every six years. A vote for Hillary Rodham Clinton will be a vote for a better Rochester! JOEL R. LIEBLING DELRAY BEACH, FLA Liebling is a volunteer for HilLuy Clinton's campaign. TOON Rally to take back streets, hope Picture this: a holiday to honor George Eastman At last! An idea whose time seems long overdue! Carol Ritter's July 12 column suggesting that Rochester set aside July 12, George Eastman's birth date, as a local holiday is an excellent thought.

Her ideas for different ways of honoring this special man certainly deserve consideration by community leaders, as well as local citizens. It is my belief that few cities owe so much to one such foresighted and generous individual. It seems a means of honoring him is justified so that present and future generations would benefit from knowing more about the achievements and generosity of this maa I only hope people in positions to bring such an idea to fruition are paying attention. CAROLYN Y. RICKMAN HILTON Don't blame the geese; blame uncontrolled sprawl In his July 23 column, Mark Hare remarks that Canada geese obstruct traffic, produce a pound of poop on private property a day, and are becoming the new Irondequoit deer.

This is a sad attitude. This usually astute writer has fallen into the trap of blaming the repercussions of our way of life on its victims. We should remember the message from a great Rochesterian and social advocate, Frederick Douglass, that there was no Negro problem in America. Prejudice was and is the problem. Focusing on our irritations toward geese, deer and the other animals we have displaced because of our uncontrolled sprawl and development belies the real truth: We are incapable of developing a comprehensive environmental policy that can accommodate both our way of life and sustain the environment we need to survive.

Devastating as our refusal to come to terms with racial prejudice was in Douglass time (and continues to be), it will pale in consequence to the repercussions of our indifference toward our environment. It is as scientist Carl Sagan said, "When you cannot drink the water and cannot breathe the air, anything else you want to do just is not going to happea" FRANK J. REGAN BRIGHTON Media discover pearly gates at John Fisher Did the pope come to town or did Jesus appear with the 12 disciples? Neither, you say. Who then? Oh, it's the Buffalo Bills. I don't think the pope or Jesus would get the media attention the Bills have gotten here lately.

Let's put things into perspective. This is a team of millionaires based in Buffalo. They come to Rochester to practice and you'd think the doors to heaven opened to all of us. Let's find something worthwhile to make headlines day after day instead of this. TOM DOLAN IRONDEQUOIT Preserve Strong house as a bed and breakfast I am writing in response to a recent report about the owner of the Strong mansion in Pittsford who is facing a lawsuit by neighbors who are trying to stop him from making the home into a bed and breakfast.

The owner has expressed difficulty in selling the home as a single-family unit and wanted to avoid having it purchased for reconfiguration into exclusive condominiums. He apparently recognizes the historical value of the house and would rather see it preserved and used by the community as a bed and breakfast. for one, applaud this idea. Seeing this valuable home compromised further (much of the original surrounding property was already sacrificed in the name of development) by converting it into apartments for a wealthy few would be sad and an opportunity lost I am sympathetic to neighbors' concerns, but believe a bed and breakfast is no more obtrusive than condominiums and would be an asset to the community! DAVID ORMANDY ROCHESTER LOCAL Hillary Now we know what she's got in Military, which aired in Of the 20,000 U.S. soldiers in Cuba, 7,000 were African-Americans including men who had served with the famous "Buffalo Soldiers." During the battles around the San Juan Heights, it was the dismounted 10th Colored Cavalry even though most of their officers had been killed who were the first to take the hill's crest.

Furthermore, by most accounts, their actions saved the Rough Riders, at that point vulnerable to Spanish artillery fire, have responded by taking action to help police and get the Christian community out on the streets. The "church" has been guilty of living in its comfort zone while praying God would change things. Pastors are demonstrating that the effective prayer posture is not inside the church but out on the streets where the problems exist It takes action on our part be it prayer, compassion, cleaning the streets or feeding the hungry. Faith without works is dead! Elder Ron House, Rally For Life organizer, states, "We are going into the enemy's camp and taking back territory until the in violence is changed to the victory." There is amazing diversity in the large number of churches represented a truly unified effort. There is power in unity.

The march goes from 10 a.m. to noon. The rally at the baseball diamond in Genesee Valley Park will end at 2 jn. But what about those who have lost loved ones to violence? What of their pain and loss? Now, picture this: Thousands of people entering Frontier Field through a huge balloon arch as they gather for a celebration of courage and life. Scores of white doves fluttering in formation, uplifting music surrounding a time of remembrance as we celebrate the lives of precious friends and family gone too sooa Hope is arising and healiiig is coming In 1906, Sea Nathan B.

Scott of West Virginia a political opponent chided Roosevelt: "If it had not been for the gallant and courageous action of the Tenth Regiment of Cavalry at the battle of San Juan we might not now have the privilege of having in the White House that brave soldier and square deal' and patriotic president of ours" nor his likeness on Mt. Rushmore! It was not one of Roosevelt's shining moments when he denied the senator's assertion of indebtedness to the Buffalo Soldiers. My point is not that Roosevelt's personal heroism should be diminished. Imagine my excitement when last Friday I was rereading his thrilling memoirs, The Rough Riders, only to discover in Fife photo the next morning's Democrat American and Chronicle, that yes, the old boy had finally gotten his medal! Roosevelt's great-grandson is quoted as saying; "It's a long deserved honor. A past wrong that's been righted.

I think T.R. would be most pleased." But this is not the only past wrong that needs to be brought to our attention when we commemorate the heroics of that "splendid little war of 1898." Kramer, of Brighton, is a PhD. candidate at the University of Rhode Island. He is working on a dissertation titled "Fictions of the Spanish-American War of 1898." Let Hope Arise will be part two of tomorrow's events. It came about as the vision of Gary Mervis, founder of Camp Good Days Special Times.

Gary has consistently delivered a message of life and hope to people suffering from cancer, AIDS, violence, sickle-cell anemia or severe burns. Let Hope Arise is an opportunity for our community to not only remember those who have lost their lives but celebrate the courage of those who remain. If your family or friends have not been touched by violence, AIDS or cancer, it is a wonderful chance to give your love and support to those who have. With gates opening at 5 p.m., kids will be delighted to find clowns and free balloons as adults enjoy great music. Parking is free and concessions will be open until the program starts at 6 p.m.

Father David Ambuske, spiritual director of Camp Good Days, will lead the service of remembrance. This will be a time not to be somber but to hug the one beside you and say, "Hey friend, you are not alone I care and I am here for you." March with us tomorrow! Join us at Frontier Field tomorrow night! God will honor our efforts and bring transformation! Ficfcess, of Fairport, is involved in Partners Against Violence Everywhere, a program of Camp Good Days Special Times. This brings us to one of the most critically important questions about the superintendent's initiative: How (specifically) will increased time in high school be spent? How will the approach to educating students who require more than four years to graduate be fundamentally different from the current approach? This is where Dr. Janey's plan falls drastically short, Le. there is very little discussion of what (specifically) will be done differently (other than formally allocating more time) to help students who may require more than four years to complete high schooL In the final analysis (based on so many nonsensical and nonproductive proposals of the past), history clearly demonstrates that city parents and citizens should be very suspect of celebratory announcements, and less than well-thought-out, sensationalistic ideas that are supposedly designed to produce educational improvement and change.

Eagle, of Greece, is a social studies teacher at James Madison School of Excellence in the Rochester School District DEBBIE FICKESS GUEST ESSAYIST Perpetrators of violence, you had better move or change your lifestyle: Rochester is about to be transformed. Picture this: Thousands of Christians marching through the streets of Rochester's west side, stopping to pray at known drug houses and in high-crime areas. Imagine the impact on drug dealers who have wrongly claimed these streets. Imagine hope coming to residents who live in fear of walking their own streets. This scenario will become reality tomorrow at Rally For Life 2000, as marchers take three routes through troubled areas of the city and convene in Genesee Valley Park for a rally featuring Rochester Mayor William A.

Johnson Jr. and Police Chief Robert Duffy. Rochester has suffered tremendous loss of life from violence and most of our murder victims have been young. Increased numbers of homicides this year have sounded alarms, and in response the faith community is awakening. On May 31, Mayor Johnson and Chief Duffy asked area pastors to help.

Pastors How schools HOWARD J. EAGLE GUEST ESSAYIST Many ideas and initiatives presented these days as fundamental or meaningful educational reform are far from it A recent case in point is Rochester School Superintendent Clifford Janey's proposal to create "varying pathways through high schooL" This initiative represents nothing more or less (for the most part) than a formal articulation of an existing reality. Many hundreds of Rochester School District students already attend high school for five, six or more years prior to 1 graduatmg not to menuon uie large numbers who spend more than four years in high school, and still don't graduate. It is unrealistic to believe that because the superintendent or Board of Education sanctions the idea of students taking five it use time is what counts years to complete high school that those students will feel less stigmatized for failing to finish in four years or that their chances of dropping out or seeking a GED will be significantly decreased. The U.S.

tradition and expectation that students will finish high school in four years or less is so deeply embedded in the minds of most people, especially students, that it is practically impossible to replace by merely creating a board policy, rule or regulation. On the other hand, it is a good idea to develop additional structures and support systems for students who are ready to excel at a faster pace. This might help more RSD students catch up to their suburban counterparts. The latter group is generally outpacing the former by leaps and bounds in every measurable academic category. However, this too opportunities for acceleration is already occurring to some extent So again, these ideas are not new.

Where failing students in particular are concerned, more "seat-time" in and of itself does not and cannot possibly represent a prescription for success. Rick Lazio her carpetbag! A local cartoonist's view If you have an original cartoon you would like us to consider, send it to: Local 'toon, Democrat and Chronicle, 55 Exchange Rochester, NY 14614 LOU SINGER PENFIELD.