Dear Editor:
Although Princess Di’s life had a sad and unbelievable end, her life achievements and events were more extraordinary.
Through all the press exploits she tried to make the best of her own life and slip through the loopholes of public interest. She genuinely tried to make a difference, even in the smallest ways, like by shaking an adoring fan’s hand.
While others stood back, amazed at the lengths she took to help, she only considered the well-being of everyone else.
No one should blame the “Queen Mum” about not showing definite public emotion toward the incident, because it’s not actually anyone’s business but her own. From a news report, I heard “old tradition” mentioned (concerning the public-emotion-no-show).
People take traditions as seriously as they feel necessary or appropriate. No one should blame any of the royals for not showing emotions in public. Think about every other person’s effort to try to hide their feelings after an untimely death.
Fae Lois L., 14, Norridge
I do not believe that Queen Elizabeth’s televised message was “too little, too late.”
Yes, I understand that Princess Diana was at odds with the royal family in the past, but it was not even necessary for the queen to make any public statement. She had been grieving with her family. In case people have forgotten, she is still William and Harry’s grandmother, though it isn’t obvious in public.
I think it’s awful the way the boys were followed around after their mother’s death. The press had no business in Balmoral.
I also think that the funeral should not have been televised. If I had been awake enough at 4 in the morning, I admit, I would have watched it too, but that still doesn’t justify it.
I also believe that the tabloids are hypocrites. The same papers that paid millions for lewd pictures of her and constantly degraded the princess printed headlines such as “Goodbye, sweet princess” in the week following her death.
The world has lost a treasure and only too late can we realize what a treasure she was.
C.P., 14, Evanston
I hope that the photographers who were chasing Princess Diana and photographing her death feel terrible. I do understand the driver was drunk and going too fast, but it still happened. And I think it’s terrible and I pray for her sons.
Cate B., 13, Palos Heights
I think that the news should leave Princes William and Harry alone. Let them mourn their mother’s death in private.
Kosta H., 13, Orland Park
I think it’s great you’re reporting on Princess Diana’s death, but it’s over.
It’s time to move on to something more important: Mother Teresa’s death.
Mother Teresa was a great woman who did a lot for the Catholic Church. Just because she wasn’t as involved with the tabloids as Princess Di was you should still give her the same respect.
Steven H., Palos Park
I think Princess Diana was a great person and all. But Mother Teresa lived in the worst place to live and devoted her whole life to helping people in the worst conditions. Mother Teresa should get more attention than Diana.
I think Mother Teresa should be buried in Rome because she is a modern day saint.
John L., 13, Orland Park
I don’t want to be rude, but I’ve heard enough about Princess Diana’s death. I’m sorry she died and she was a great person, but all I see on magazines tabloids and newspapers is Princess Di’s death, and it’s ridiculous.
She was British, not American, so why should we care so much? The tabloids are sickening, so can we please let Princess Di rest in peace.
Monica T., 12, Carpentersville
GROUNDED
In response to “Plane nonsense” (Sept. 9 Tough News): Even if the girl was scared, she should not have been allowed in the cockpit. When she was in the cockpit, she was endangering the lives of the other passengers. The pilot should be watching where he’s going instead of appeasing a little girl’s fear. I know that sounds harsh, but people could have been killed if she had accidentally pressed something.
Kelly J., 13, Palos Heights
SAVE CAHOKIA
A few days ago we read that Cahokia is in danger. Cahokia has the biggest Native American mound north of Mexico. We went there last fall, and we thought it was really cool. Part of it is protected because it belongs to the state of Illinois, but about half of the original site is privately owned. It might be destroyed to build houses, gas stations and other businesses. We hope people will support protecting all of Cahokia. Once it’s gone, there’s no way to get it back.
Kiran K., 12 (and) Jaya K., 10, Chicago
SLINGIN’ SLANG
I am extremely mad at your newspaper. It may be the “style” that you write with to use slang words that haven’t been invented yet ‘zine? Why not just write the word?
When I read KidNews, the message behind every article you write seems to be: I have to have certain things, dress in a certain way and act a certain way to have friends. I know that isn’t true, but think of all the kids who have to find out the hard way.
Most kids have trouble with peer pressure, but with KidNews it must be unbearable. What you say makes me feel like I have to have boyfriend, “hang with” a crowd and waste tons of money in the mall or life’s not worth living.
You should write at least two pages of worthwhile things stuff that’s going on in the world outside of fame or stop printing.
Avery U., 9, Evanston
HANSON FOREVER
I want to respond to Katie C.’s article about Hanson (Sept. 9 Backtalk). Hanson happens to be a great group. They sing happy and appropriate songs, and they are role models for young children.
As Isaac Hanson said, the song “MMMBop” is about relationships. And Katie, if you think they’re so horrible, why was “MMMBop” No. 1 on the charts for a few weeks? Their other song “Where’s the Love” happens to be pretty high on the charts also.
I think you’re a little jealous. I plan to keep on bopping with the tons of other Hanson fans for a long time.
Courtney C., 13, Chicago
In response to Katie C.: I totally agree with you. I am also sick about hearing about Hanson. They do sound like little girls and look like it. I had to ask my friend to find out they are boys.
Lastly, I agree that their lyrics could be better.
Michelle F., 11, Chicago
UNAPPETIZING
I don’t think you should encourage kids to buy disposable lunch products such as Lunchables (Sept. 9 Stuff). They are fast and easy, but they create too much waste. Instead, you could make some of the same foods yourself and pack them in reusable containers.
Who cares if they’re a little more messy? You’re going to have to wash your clothes anyway. Please keep our Earth clean.
Taylor S., 11, Barrington
BARBS
In response to Meiko F. (Sept. 9 Backtalk): Most girls probably won’t grow up disappointed about their figure. Why? Because when you are 3 or 4, you don’t think,” I want a body just like Barbie when I grow up.”
Most little girls just want to play house and have fun with their Barbies. Did you think of having the perfect body when you were 4? I know I didn’t.
Melissa V., 12, Crystal Lake
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