I was pleasantly surprised to see Mike Sigman’s Letter to the Editor (Herald, Jan. 2) in which he referenced history. The pleasant part was that Mr. Sigman has obviously done some research to know that the Nazi Party of Germany was the National Socialist German Workers Party – which is not common knowledge. I would venture, though, that every member of every history department I was part of (middle school, high school and college) certainly knew that fact.
However, as I noted in my opinion column (Herald, Dec. 19), Sigman is following the lead of the current administration by twisting the meaning and application of the word “socialist.” He seems to be ignoring the fact that we in the United States are blessed with myriad socialist programs that benefit our citizens and society. Would he seriously prefer to eliminate them?
Do we need to remind Sigman of the blessings of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid or the various programs that assist those in need? I also wonder if he has ever visited a public beach, public library, public park or any national park or forest. Did he send his children or grandchildren to a public school or public university? Does he only drive on toll roads? Heaven forbid he would ever need to call 911 for assistance.
As to his wondering “how many left-leaning teachers are populating the schools,” it indicates to me that he has very little experience with or understanding of public schools and the question is not worthy of a reply.
Gene Orr
Kline
