For the sake of peace, Biden and Putin must talk

For peace sake, Biden and Putin must talk

What is President Joe Biden doing to defuse the crisis in Ukraine and avert nuclear war? October marks the 60th anniversary of the Cuban Missile Crisis [“Biden warns of nuclear threat,” News, Oct. 8]. Once again, the United States and Russia could be on the brink of nuclear catastrophe [“How to measure Putin’s nuclear bluster,” Opinion, Oct. 6].

Biden says he is looking for an exit ramp. So, the president needs to call for negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and avoid a nuclear war. Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin must find a mutually agreeable exit ramp that all sides can accept. Direct communication is the best way to prevent the use of nuclear weapons. Our survival is at stake.

Margaret Melkonian, Uniondale

The writer is executive director of the Long Island Alliance for Peaceful Alternatives in Garden City.

Snow days are meant for kids

Having retired after teaching for 40 years, I can attest to the students’ glee and excitement, regardless of grade level, when forecasters predicted a snowstorm “Keep snow days, readers say,” News, Oct. 4]. When the first flakes were seen through the classroom window, all concentration was lost. The children were already asking if there would be a snow day “tomorrow.” Some even went so far as to ask if there might be an early dismissal “today.” Snow was barely on the ground.

To expect students to spend a snow day in remote learning mode is preposterous. How much would actually be accomplished behind closed doors as snow piled up outside? I’m thrilled that many are rethinking the nonsense we’ve been hearing.

Snow days are a rite of passage and wonderful, singular gifts of childhood.

Mary Kenney, Williston Park