I am writing to congratulate Melanie Pennington on the excellent sculpture she created of Ryan White. Though she is primarily an abstract sculptor, she has mastered the difficult task of a lifelike portrait figure.
It has a very fine likeness to Ryan. I mean it really looks like him, plus energy, movement and an especially strong command of the difficult areas of folds in the clothing. A valuable addition is the open backpack inviting comments from viewers to be slipped in, or taken out to read, connecting the work to those who stop to contemplate it.
As a professional sculptor myself, with two major works at Indiana University Bloomington, I am acutely aware of quality in figurative sculptures and I feel this work is of the highest quality. It’s a fine tribute to a brave young man and an important addition to the many sculptures on the campus.
Tuck Langland
Elkhart
Smoking resolution
As we welcome a new year, many of us set resolutions to live healthier lives. For those who smoke, there is no greater gift you can give yourself — and those you love — than the decision to quit.
While no one would say quitting is easy, there are many things to learn to make the process manageable. Within just 20 minutes of your last cigarette, your heart rate begins to drop. Within 24 hours, risk of a heart attack decreases. Over time, your lungs heal, your risk of cancer falls and your energy returns. Every smoke-free day is a victory, and every step forward is a powerful investment in yourself.
The new year is a natural moment for change. It’s a chance to break free from old habits and embrace new beginnings. Across our community, countless resources are available — from quitlines and counseling to nicotine replacement therapies — that can double or even triple your success. You don’t have to do it alone.
Imagine what 2026 could look like: more mornings waking up energized, more money saved, more time spent with family and friends and more years added to your life. Quitting smoking is not just about avoiding disease, it’s about reclaiming joy, freedom and possibility.
So, as you write your resolutions this year, consider making quitting tobacco your top priority. Your health, your loved ones and your future self will thank you.
Saint Joseph Health System offers free Courage to Quit classes. Call Jill at 574-335-4681 for more info. Classes start the first week of 2026.
Jill Sabo
Mishawaka
Boat strikes
When I see the drug boats being blown up, I wonder if the people who are driving them are cartel operatives or poor innocent fishermen whose families are being held hostage. Either way, they aren’t enemy soldiers in a declared war.
They are alleged criminals who haven’t yet had their day in court and enjoy the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, just like any other person who is suspected of committing a crime against the people of the United States.
My government is killing people and that’s not the America I have loved all my life.
Jimmy Hamilton
Niles
Holiday spirit
The true spirit of the holidays was illustrated to me in a dramatic way. I returned an item to the store. Thinking it would not take long, I left my knit cap and gloves in the car. When finished I could not find my car. I went back to the store, too cold to continue. I jokingly told the greeter I would take her job if she could find my car.
She asked, “How old are you and do you live alone?” I’m 82 and live with my wife. “Do you have any children, and could anyone help find your car?” Then my male ego kicked in, and I said I would keep looking.
My new friend offered to drive me around. After eight rows she said, “Let’s try a few more,” and said a prayer, “Please dear God help us find this man’s car, in Jesus’ name.” Then we said amen. We are of different faiths. However, this does not matter; the Lord hears all our prayers equally.
As her prayer ended, I saw my car. She said, “You see, God hears our prayers.” I will light a candle for her, and I hope she lights one for me.
Jerry Schpok
South Bend
This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: A fine tribute to a brave young man | Letters
Reporting by Letters to the Editor, South Bend Tribune / South Bend Tribune
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