Sir James Lovelock, British atomic scientist, said that the UK, Tasmania and New Zealand could be islands of survival. So that could be something to aim for, and this could be helped by tree planting and the reduction of the dairy herds. I am told that we feed 40 million people overseas with meat and milk.
SARA DICKON
Whanganui
Saga continues
I was hoping the ongoing saga about euthanasia had run its course but obviously not, after reading Melinda Bolton's epistle in today's Chronicle (June 25). Her argument is flawed in a multitude of statements.
Yes, one is permitted to commit suicide, an act that is frequently botched and often causes extreme angst to the person wishing to legally end their life. Persons helping in euthanasia are NOT ending your life, they are ASSISTING you to do it.
Choosing a dignified death is something a lot of persons receiving palliative care are denied, because at the end they are unable to make any decision regarding their exit. If she is a caring worker with the sick and elderly, she will know losing control of bodily functions and gasping for air are not dignified for the patient nor the loving family members who have to witness this distressing end to life.
She then embarks on a plea for better palliative care, but that has absolutely nothing to do with the argument as it stands. More quality applied to palliative care will have no effect on the final departure unless even more drugs are used to ease the passing and this is, in effect, manslaughter at best.
Finally, Melinda wonders how I would react if I was one of the "innocent" casualties. With the utmost respect, could I say, "Wake up, Melinda; I wouldn't react because I would be dead". (Abridged)
D PARTNER
Eastown
Congratulations due
I congratulate and applaud Ethan Mancer and Sarah Wright on their outstanding achievement of reaching selection as members of the National Youth Band and the National High School Band.
This success tells us of untold hours of practice, learning and rehearsal that has brought them thus far. They continue to enhance a long-held tradition of winning soloists emerging from the tuition of Brass Wanganui.
Euphonium soloists of championship standard from Wanganui have been prominent from as far back as records show.
I personally remember names of Herb Guthrie, James Watson, Owen Williams and, post-war, Roy Jackson, Jay Neal, Selwyn Holmes as just a few with many more younger players adding to the list.
For cornetists, of course, there is one name that is celebrated as star quality, as Kevin Jarrett heads another long list including David Maas and many others.
While it is reassuring to know that Whanganui High School is so supportive of brass musicians, I trust there is enough inspiration and challenge for others to help build on a culture that is part of Wanganui's history since the formation of Wanganui Garrison Band in 1882.
Brass Wanganui, we look forward to your continuing enjoyment, success and advancement within the great brass family.
JIM EYERS
Whanganui
Send your letters to: The Editor, Wanganui Chronicle, 100 Guyton St, PO Box 433, Wanganui 4500; or email editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz
