United Way serves central Marylanders

There has been some confusion regarding the United Way that serves Anne Arundel County residents. But I want readers to know that your United Way is the United Way of Central Maryland. It serves the central Maryland area, and it is a first-class organization that is well run, responsible and accountable.

Last year, Anne Arundel County residents received services through United Way of Central Maryland's funded agencies more than 650,000 times. And United Way is working hard to fulfill its mission of building bridges between those who have and those in need.

In 2002, it is unacceptable that over one-third of all single mothers in Anne Arundel County live in poverty; that 64 percent of the homeless in Anne Arundel County are families; and that 18 percent of adults over 25 do not have high school diplomas.

The United Way of Central Maryland is vital to the well-being of Anne Arundel County, and we are asking for support from all sectors. There is still time to run a campaign and there is still time to make an individual contribution.

During these trying economic times, our neighbors' needs are even greater. When you think of our community in the next year, think about meeting the needs of those less fortunate. Then ask yourself, "If not me - who?" and "If not now - when?"

For more information on how to run a campaign or how to contribute call our local United Way office at 410-379-1319.

Martin L. "Chip" Doordan

Annapolis

The writer is chairman of the 2002 Anne Arundel County United Way campaign.

Rape demands harsh penalty

Rape and battery of two girls, ages 5 and 8, by an adult. Can anyone comprehend a more heinous crime?

Yet the original sentence of 15 years was ultimately reduced by Anne Arundel Circuit Court Judge Ronald Silkworth to 18 months and mandatory anger-management class ("Rapist of two girls jailed on charge of violating probation," Nov. 19).

Do judges understand they are the children's and the community's defense against people who would commit such a crime? Judge Silkworth owes those two little girls and all the children an explanation for such a sentence.

Robert J. Mulherin

Linthicum

Thanks for donation to fire department

On Sept. 11, 2002, Dr. Thomas Lo of the Advanced Chiropractic Center accepted donations from his patients in memory of the victims of the terrible day one year before. He then matched those donations and sent the money to the Arundel Volunteer Fire Department.

The members of the department thank Dr. Lo and his patients for their thoughtful and generous contribution to the fire and rescue services of their community.

Stephanie A. Jamieson

Gambrills

The writer is secretary of the Arundel Volunteer Fire Department.