Kudos to student, and attorney as well

A new start

To the Times:

The NAACP Chester Branch wishes to add its congratulations to Ciani Hodges, the young lady from Chester who is doing such outstanding work at Neumann University, and to attorney Enrique Latoison, whose fund is making it possible for Ciani to continue her education.

In 2016, Mr. Latoison was a Community Honoree at the NAACP Annual Awards Dinner. The next year, Ciani was a Youth Honoree at the same event and recipient of the Gwendolyn J. Foster Youth Award.

We at the Chester Branch of NAACP are committed to doing our part in helping young people pursue their dreams. Together, NAACP and people like Latoison are helping to give meaning to that phrase, “What Chester Makes Makes Chester.” Darrell V., Jones, President,

NAACP Chester Branch To the Times: Everything smacks of newness when it comes to the annual re-start of school - new backpacks, clothing, shoes and sneakers, school supplies, even some new teachers and course work.

Maybe we need a little newness when it comes to the attitude department on the part of just too many teens. Maybe many should vow that they will at least meet the teacher half way this new school year. There is no room for the approach that maintains, “Teach me; I dare you.” Maybe while you are at it, try to extend a little more respect and appreciation also. It helps when you realize that many of the great Americans you deeply respect and adore have had teachers in their lives to help make this greatness a reality.

Look, most teachers chose the classroom to try to make a real difference in the lives of their students. Most are armed with a couple of degrees and will endure a genteel poverty when you compare their money-making capacity to so many others.

While we are at it, maybe their parents need a little newness in supporting the work they’ve entrusted teachers to do. A nice wholesome breakfast goes a long way in keeping Junior focused in the morning while he is grappling with calculus. Unlike the dentist who can extract your kid’s wisdom teeth by putting him to sleep and then plying his craft, teachers work better with focused, conscious and alert minds.

The education of our young people lies at the very survival of our future. We must count on them to use their education and training to continue to make inroads in medical research, environmental survival, national defense, and civility among all Americans.

Sam Alfonsi, Marple