Monday, December 14, 1998

Letters to the Editor

Just swinging

This is regarding the letter about swing dancing at ACU. Many in the student body were angered and offended by this letter. I would hope the ACU body as a whole, including alumni, will not let a dispute of this nature cause any major problems. We are after all Christians and are taught not to deal with such things as this in anger.

We understand your concern for this university and its reputation. However, I find it unsettling to hear more concern for its reputation than its students. ACU is “no ordinary university.” The values taught and the atmosphere of Christian service present on its campus are of the highest standard because of the administration and its constant efforts. Anything that proved truly harmful to the student body would not be tolerated.

I am one of the swinging students at ACU. I believe the dancing activities we participate in are not dangerous. The music we prefer is that with no vulgar language, unlike much of today’s music. There is strictly no alcohol at these activities. If there was, many of the students who attend would stop coming. The atmosphere of the dances is simply one of fun. If ever there was a way for students to have a good (and safe) time, this is it.

Yes, the regulatory efforts of the ACU administration have changed somewhat over the past half-century, but there is nothing happening that should cause concern for the reputation of the university or its students being soiled. We just like to swing.

JEREMY UPTON

Abilene

Timing is wrong

We are appreciative and needing of the anticipated road construction beginning on the Winters Freeway. This is a growing area in Abilene, and the need for additional changes will continue as Abilene continues its southward trend.

But may I ask who the heck set the timing of this project? With the Christmas season beginning, and football playoffs in full swing, basketball games off and running, why would anybody in their right mind begin a project in a part of town, and a time of year such as this?

Again, let me say, thank you for the construction and the expansion; it is needed, but don’t close and narrow the already constricted areas by closing part of it down at this time of year. Let’s hope with the increased traffic and the hustle and bustle of the season, there are no major accidents and, most of all, no fatalities.

GREG RIGGINS

Hawley

Via e-mail

For Twinkle Toes

On Dec. 11 Virginia Paynter wrote that she had called Charles Stenholm’s office and was told he has not decided on how he would vote on the impeachment hearing.

Ms. Paynter, it could be that Stenholm is one of a handful of congressmen who realize there are other more important issues to work on.

More than likely he also realizes it is a waste of time, as there is very little chance of Clinton being impeached if it reaches the Senate.

I suggest we send Twinkle Toes (Kenneth Starr) another $40 million to see what he can come up with.

GARY REED

Abilene

Via e-mail

Just get on with it

I hope Mr. Stenholm realizes many people voted for him so that the impeachment thing would be ended and the government would get serious about getting on with the real problems of the country.

We are sure that Charlie has lied to us many times in his efforts as a good congressman trying to do his best and still get elected again.

JOHN DELAPLAINE

Sweetwater

Via e-mail