Turn a time of mourning into a time of action
As we reflect on the passing of Ambassador Dan Rooney (“Steelers Owner Dan Rooney Dies,” April 14), I find myself feeling a mix of emotions. Sadness at the loss of such an inspiring man. Thanks at having had the chance to know him, to work for him and with him. Deep admiration at the number of lives he touched.
Mr. Rooney’s leadership and steadfast commitment to do what is right has made a tremendous difference for so many. As founding chairman of The Mentoring Partnership, Mr. Rooney recognized an important need to connect young people with caring mentors. In the 22 years since we began, we’ve worked with hundreds of local programs to bring mentoring to more than 20,000 kids each year. It’s comforting to know that his spirit will live on, not only in our organization, but in all the other organizations and individuals he made such a lasting impact on.
Mr. Rooney served by example and led with his values. He showed us the best of what can be done with fortune and influence and it’s hard not to dwell on the impact of his loss, especially when we need people like him now more than ever. But I’m asking us to take this time of sadness and turn it into a time of action.
We all have the opportunity to be stewards of Mr. Rooney’s legacy by serving others, lifting each other up and continuing to do all we can to ensure Pittsburgh is a place where everyone can thrive. His loss can help to inspire us all, as keepers of the flame, to push that much harder and smarter to realize his vision and share it with others. Whether you’re a born-and-bred Pittsburgher or you’re new to our family, we can all share the Pittsburgh spirit that extends far beyond the football field thanks to Mr. Rooney’s dedication, leadership and love for our community. COLLEEN O. FEDOR Executive Director The Mentoring Partnership Hill District
In reading the article “Henry Hillman Gave for the People, Not for Himself” (April 21), I am struck by the stark contrast to another successful billionaire businessman, Donald Trump. Mr. Hillman stayed behind the scenes and gave millions to scientific development, education, medicine and the arts.
In contrast, Mr. Trump is an unabashed promoter who went so far as to invent the persona of John Miller to tout himself in call-ins to radio shows in the 1980s. His insatiable ego leads him to grab the spotlight and promote the “Trump brand” in clothing, buildings and even a defunct university. His millions went to leading a phony “birther” movement against Barack Obama’s presidency. Mr. Trump said he gives millions to charity, but he refuses to release his tax returns to verify his claims.
While Mr. Hillman and his wife gave money to improve life for others, Mr. Trump has ignored public education in favor of private and charter schools and denied overwhelming scientific evidence of global warming.
As Mr. Hillman’s legacy of advancements in science and medicine will continue for many years, it remains to be seen what legacy Mr. Trump will leave as president. But as a humanitarian and philanthropist, Mr. Trump doesn’t hold a candle to Mr. Hillman. MARCIA TURBINER
Shaler
I applaud the city of Pittsburgh’s spay/neuter voucher program. It is worth noting that Pennsylvania law mandates that all dogs and cats adopted via humans and rescues be spayed or neutered. It should be an easy step for the Legislature to amend that law to include all transfers of dogs and cats through pet stores, kennels or breeders.
Accurate statistics are difficult to come by regarding euthanization. Numbers vary from 1.5 million to over 3 million pets (dogs/cats) annually. Pennsylvania’s share would be 5,000 to 10,000 animals killed every month. This excess population of pets needs to end.
Please contact your elected local and state representatives and ask them to put in place and enforce spay/neuter. It is the humane thing to do. JOHN WHITFORD
Butler