Your readers got to know Michael Krasnow from the in-depth story in the April 9 issue ("The Hunger Artist," Bob Norman) of New Times, but they really didn't get to know his parents, especially his mother Gail, who is one of the finest people I know. When you have traveled along the road of life with someone for over 40 years and cannot find a single flaw in [her], I'd say that's pretty darn good. Gail is one of those people -- the best daughter, the best wife, the best mother, and the best kind of friend.
It was at Gail's parents' house back in 1959, that I came to that realization. Their home was one filled with love and warmth. When Gail's dad passed away, I thought that was the most terrible thing that could ever happen to her -- was I ever wrong. When my husband Steve and I got to know Gail's husband, Jerry, we knew as couples we'd be friends for life. How lucky they were to find each other: two warm, loving, perfect people. Always funny, always kind, always there to help. Her young sons were so lucky to have Gail and Jerry for parents. Jerry always had time for his boys -- he was not just a good dad, he was a great dad. I was there, I could feel the love in that family.
When Jerry died in 1988, we hadn't seen Michael in a very long time and were shocked by his appearance at his father's funeral. What happened to the really cute kid we used to know? How Gail had the strength to face the following years alone during Michael's anorexia, without Jerry, is a story yet to be told. How could she love the son who caused her so much pain without losing her mind? Where does this remarkable woman get her inner and outer strength? Why isn't she being written about in journals and other publications?
I am one of those very, very lucky people who are truly able to call Gail Krasnow my friend.
Barbara Williams
Highland Beach
Giving Chief Moneybags His Due
Sean Rowe's insightful and well-written piece ("Big Chief Moneybags," March 19) about Seminole leader James Billie shows us a dedicated leader who clearly works very hard for the people he represents -- unlike most elected officials. The U.S. Senate is pushing legislation to reduce or eliminate the sovereignty of Indian nations across the country. The Indians' newfound economic success threatens the tax-and-spend Republocrats in Congress and [state legislatures]. And so the American tradition of breaking treaties with Indians is not yet ended. I wish James Billie and the Seminoles the best of luck.
Dennis P. Quinn
Miami Lakes
