Brownie Wise Park suggestions
Dear Editor:
Missing from the (Monday, Aug. 11 Osceola County) public comment meeting were the torches and pitchforks. Many like me don’t get a connection between the Pulse tragedy 9 years ago and Brownie Wise Park. True the victims deserve a memorial. One is processing at the Pulse site. I like Brownie Wise Park the way it is. I make the following suggestions:
Leave natural parks alone;
Make a contribution towards the real memorial, perhaps a plaque for Osceola victims; maybe even the 49-foot tower;
Stop voting for those who don’t represent you;
Any commissioner who supports this in opposition of the people, please quit.
Thank you in advance for appropriate action.
Michael Johnson
Kissimmee
USPS Stamp Encore campaign
Dear Editor:
As Postmaster of Kissimmee, I’m proud to share that the United States Postal Service is inviting the American public to help shape a unique part of our nation’s cultural history—our postage stamps.
Through the newly launched Encore Stamp Campaign, the Postal Service is giving everyone a chance to vote on their favorite previously issued stamps, with the top five being reissued as Forever stamps in a special Encore Collection set to debut in 2026.
Now through September 30, 2025, visit stampsforever.com/vote to vote for your top five favorites from a curated list of 25 beloved stamp designs. These stamps reflect the rich diversity of America—from natural landscapes and artistic achievements to cultural icons and moments in history.
This campaign is more than just a chance to revisit the past; it’s an opportunity for all Americans to have a direct voice in what stories we tell through our nation’s stamps.
There’s no limit to how many times you can vote—so let your passion for stamps, history, and design shine through. The winning stamps will be revealed at the Boston 2026 World Expo, a celebration of global philately and innovation.
At the Postal Service, we’ve long believed in the power of stamps to capture moments, honor milestones, and connect people. The Encore Stamp Campaign continues that legacy—and now, we’re inviting you to be a part of it.
Frank Stallworth
U.S. Postal Service, Kissimmee
Women’s Suffrage Day
Dear Editor:
Aug. 18, 2025, marks the 105th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage Day. This day commemorated the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted many American women the right to vote. Women’s suffrage was a hard-fought milestone. Yet, despite this accomplishment, the path to suffrage was not universal or equal; many barriers continued to exist for the full participation of all women.
Florida is home to many advocates for women’s rights, such as Carita Doggett Corse, a historian and writer who led the Florida branch of the WPA’s Writers’ Project. Her tireless efforts contributed greatly to uplifting women’s voices and preserving their history. Her civic engagement left an everlasting legacy for women across our state.
Today, the Florida Commission on Human Relations continues the work of advancing gender equality by enforcing the Civil Rights Act. From protecting women against employment discrimination and sexual harassment to promoting fair housing access, our agency works to ensure that women’s rights are more than symbolic but enforced.
If you believe you have experienced discrimination in employment, housing, or public accommodations or are interested in learning more about your rights, contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations at 850-488-7082 or visit FCHR.MyFlorida.com.
Cheyanne Costilla
Executive Director, Florida Commission on Human Relations
