Nov. 11: Time to remember, give thanks

Veterans Day, on Thursday, Nov. 11, is a day of celebration set aside to honor all those who have served and are currently serving in the U.S. armed forces — active duty, Guards, Reserves and retired — in times of war and peace.

Whenever you have the opportunity, thank the members of the military, past and present, especially those returning from a war zone — most recently, Afghanistan. Be especially mindful of our disabled and paralyzed veterans and the sacrifices they and their loved ones have endured, and of the families of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Someone once asked, “what is a veteran?” The response is: A veteran is a person who at one point wrote a blank check, made payable to the United States of America, for an amount up to and including that person’s life.

JOHN O’BRIEN

Orford

The writer is a retired Army lieutenant colonel and Vietnam veteran.

Why do high schools even have mascots?

I’m glad Hanover High School is retiring its nickname and the odd pirate logo (“Hanover ready for mascot makeover,” Nov. 2), but why do high schools adopt any mascot? It does seem that only sportswriters refer to mascots, since whenever anyone asks, “Who ya playin’ this week?” high school players, coaches, parents and fans almost always mention the opponent’s town or school name, not the mascot.

Pro sports are different: Teams are often referred to by their nicknames — the Red Sox, or “da Sox,” more often than Boston. Plus, many pro teams are now statewide or regional, such as our New England Patriots, or Tampa Bay, Golden State, Minnesota, etc.

For Hanover High, I do sort of like the humor of “Maroon Crush,” though drawing a logo will present a challenge.

MICHAEL WHITMAN

Lyme

Applause for return of live theater

Live theater is alive again! To sit in the audience of Shaker Bridge Theatre’s current show I And You, which runs through Nov. 21, brought tears to my eyes even before the lights came up.

Finally. Live theater again.

I am in awe of all who are passionate enough and brave enough to make theater arts their career path, including the two gifted young actors here from New York City performing this beautifully gripping story at Shaker Bridge Theatre in Enfield. Please join me in purchasing season passes and attending all the shows. This is what helps keep the theater’s heart beating.

JEANNIE HINES

Plainfield

The writer is an actor who has performed at Shaker Bridge Theatre and elsewhere.