Government shut-down

Dear Editor:

Shutting down the government is the most unpatriotic thing Congress could do.

We elected the 535 men and women who serve in the House and Senate to do a job – and that job does not include such extreme partisan bickering that they become incapable of rectifying their differences to keep the government running.

Congress had a deadline: 11:59 PM EDT Monday night. Since they failed to meet it and the government has shut down, every single one of the 535 members should be voted out in their next election.

Lt. Col. Allen B. West, USA (ret)

U.S. Congressman (2011-2013)

Praises for devoted teachers

Dear Editor:

I hear so many stories this school year about good/bad teachers and it is only a month-plus into the school year.

So I wanted to write this letter and show those who speak poorly that there is good … even great, out there.

On a recent Wednesday there was a torrential downpour as I was driving my son to school. As I pulled up to the car line, I noticed the lot was flooded and yet teachers who were drenched to their hips, cold and holding umbrellas as lightning hit all around walked to each car and sheltered each child to the school. Some carrying the littlest one to the door. Now that’s devotion to each and every child! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a WHOLE school come together and take care of their own. It all works under the direction of the principal, Dr. Kaye at Somerset Pines Academy.

So know although its early in the school year, there are MANY wonderful teachers out there and I am grateful to ours!

Let’s start praising those who do so much for our children because, like our children, they too need a pat on the back every once in awhile to make them feel appreciated.

Dana Wade

Deerfield Beach