Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Actual Revised and printed Letter to Gazette

Linthicum park

I would like to thank Verena Voll Linthicum for her response to my suggestion that the safe, law-abiding and responsible use of alcohol be permitted in the J. Charles Linthicum Park - just as it is so permitted in family homes, back yards, community festivals, and even at special "all American" places where families gather such as Camden yards. (Maryland Gazette, Oct. 8)

One such place should be highlighted here here: Fort McHenry. For the past 20 years I have been present at most Flag Day and Defender's Day celebrations at the home of the Star-Spangled Banner, Fort McHenry.

It was a place near and dear to "Uncle Charlie's" heart and never in that patriotic crowd of families have I ever seen public drunkenness, disorderly conduct or littering. Believe me, many alcoholic beverages are raised to salute the flag and the brave defenders of the fort.

Responsible consumption of alcohol is permitted at Fort

McHenry on the wonderful lawn every day, as it is in most federal parks, and I have never visited such a clean and peaceful place where law and order cleanliness, and decency prevail.

We have come a long way toward tolerance of many practices, life-ways and personal preferences since the days of prohibition. In my opinion we need to extend that tolerance to the strictly law-abiding, and moderate drinker.

I want to thank you again Verena for joining the discussion and for your efforts and those of the tireless committee workers and our local politicians for supporting this wonderful park and monument.

Every citizen should work as hard to help to keep our parks beautiful-this is not a job for the county government alone!

CONRAD BLADEY

Linthicum

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