Hartz Mountain Corporation
Harrison, New Jersey 07029

Hartz Mountain Corporation:
          Recently I bought two cages for my four gerbils. I like the concept the cages display, but when my gerbils ran on the wheels, they broke near the axils. This problem occurred in both cages. I would like to see this improved if it is anyway possible.
          I am pleased with the other products your company distributes. My gerbils seem to like the cedar chips and food. You might want to consider putting sunflower seeds in your mix, though.
          Please give this letter some thought. I would like to see some changes made. Also, please send me two wheels to replace the damaged ones.

                                                                                                                                                                           Sincerely,
                                                                                                                                                                           Carmen M. Ganser

                                                                                                                                                                           1558 Foxborough Drive
                                                                                                                                                                           Bel Air, MD 21014
                                                                                                                                                                           October 10, 1990

Reader Mail
Seventeen
850 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10022

Dear Editor:
          I am glad that "Dressed to Kill," in the October issue, was brought to my attention. I am amazed that people have to die for any reason. But a reason as mindless as expensive clothing is outrageous.
          You mentioned that schools are adopting uniforms as an answer. I do not think uniforms will work. People don't die at school, but on the street. They don't wear uniforms as street clothes. Uniforms do not promote individualism in students. Something else should be done. I sincerely think an answer is needed, but I know uniforms are not it.

                                                                                                                                                                           Sincerely,
                                                                                                                                                                           Carmen Ganser

English                                                                                                                                                                Carmen Ganser
Maryland Writing Test                                                                                                                                         7-207 5-10-90

          As your older sister, I think my advise will come in handy for your years to come in middle school. Yes, middle school will be rougher than elementary school. A lot of changes will occur. The schedules, procedures, and rules will be different. Listen carefully to my advise I am giving you, dear brother, and things won't be as difficult as they seem.
          The schedule is about the same as it is in elementary school. There are about the same classes, but a lot of things are added. In middle school, there is no time for play. The lunch periods are shorter, because each class is forty minutes long, and each grade eats at different times. The arts classes are added in middle school. These arts classes include home economics, music, art, and industrial arts. In eighth grade another class is added called foreign languages. This class can be take to replace one of the other arts classes. If you are in band, chorus, or orchestra, your schedule is different from those who are not. Physical education and band, chorus, or orchestra alternate class every other day.
          The procedures are not very different, but they are a little harder. The work gets more difficult, and the homework time is increased. Some of the teachers might teach you other methods than the ones you've already had, and sometimes these methods are often more complex.
          No gum chewing, no shorts, and a strict banning on weapons are some rules you will aquire. These rules may seem harsh at first. Once you get used to them, you will see that they are for the good of the school and the good of the students.
          Middle school and elementary school may not be as different as you think. Once you understand this information I have just given you, you will fit in as well as the older kids.

Carmen M. Ganser teaches 11th grade history and literature, and an 8th grade course on the historical avant-garde. She lives and works in Los Angeles.

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