The other working moms
Your article on Brenda Barnes (“Nobody’s business but her own,” Oct. 14) was interesting, but had little to do with the lives of most working mothers, who do not have “careers”–they have jobs. They work for low wages and juggle a family and home as well as their jobs. They do not make six-figure salaries or have nannies. Many working women would love to stay home with their families, but simply cannot.
Brenda Barnes had money and resources. To point her out as some kind of example is unfair to many overworked, stressed-out working mothers.
SUSAN STEFFEY / Chicago
Corner taverns
I enjoyed Rick Kogan’s article about the disappearance of neighborhood bars (Sidewalks, Oct. 14). Charlotte’s is not far from where I live, and I’ll give it a try. The one I really enjoy–and truly has the appearance outside and inside of an old-time neighborhood bar–is Ted’s Northwest Liquors, in the 5200 block of West Addison Street in Chicago: pool table, dart boards and several TVs.
I remember the Hiawatha Tap in the 2100 block of West Division Street in the ’50s and ’60s, sitting at the bar next to my dad on a Sunday afternoon (his only day off), as he had a beer or two and I had a soda or two.
Fond memories.
ARLENE FEAR / CHICAGO
Cross-border care
Thank you for the insight you are bringing to the world of spina bifida. My son, who is 14 years old and has spina bifida, is pretty high-functioning, but he has had numerous surgeries over the years. Would you believe I bring my son from Canada to the United States for medical care?
We haven’t had very good success getting doctors who are willing to see him on an ongoing basis, but thanks to the Shriners Hospital in Minneapolis, my son receives top-notch medical care that has made life worth living.
LISA TREFT / Sanford, Manitoba
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