Commentary on today’s news and opinion, from readers and newsmakers.
Phil Reisman’s column today about the death of his dog Amy has brought many readers to tears. “When columnists write about their dogs, they are sometimes cited for committing an act of self-indulgence,” Reisman wrote. “Desperation is closer to the truth in most cases. I make no apologies today. It’s just that I have nothing else on my mind, except a nearly paralyzing grief for the loss of a good friend.” Comments from LoHud.com readers:
What a wonderful story; I cried at the end. It reminded me of when I have to put down my beloved Lhasa Apso, Molly, down a few years ago. I’ve been telling my friends, family and co-workers to read this great story. I always, always enjoy your column but today was special and it melted my heart.”
— Janet Nicolai Protano
I also had to put my longtime friend to sleep recently, and you expressed exactly how I felt about letting go of my furry angel.”
— Maryanne Rezack
Glad for your memories, sorry for your loss.”
— Mary Neagle Smith
A story about experts linking violence and sex in the media and video games to the behavior of young people, highlighted by this week’s coverage of an alleged gang sex attack in Chestnut Ridge, has readers taking sides on the issue. So far an equal number of commenters agree with the assessment of a ‘rape culture’ as disagree:
Right, let’s blame the media for our failure to parent. … In our nanny state of mind we look for blame in our shortcomings. Give it a rest. I’m tired of experts pontificating about social ills.”
— George Thompson
It is so true that our children have been desensitized to violence, including sexual violence. What parents have to understand is that even if you are vigilant, if your kid has a smart phone, they can see anything that the Internet has to offer with no filters. When we were kids, if a friend talked about us behind our backs, it was with spoken words. Today, with instant messaging and Facebook, what used to be just talk is out there forever in print. The kids are on [Facebook] talking about this to each other, taking sides and spreading rumors. What they may not understand is that their comments on Facebook might just become part of this legal case.”
— Peggy Hatton
What are you talking about today? Leave your answer in the comments below.
