PRAISE FOR WQED CHIEF

I have to take issue with the assumptions that Len Boselovic made concerning George Miles, WQED Multimedia chief executive ("WQED Chief on AIG Board, Several Others"). Mr. Miles has made WQED Multimedia One of the most outstanding public radio stations in the country in spite of serving on multiple boards, and making a positive influence on all those that he has chosen to serve on. I, too, would take issue with AIG's California extravaganza, but I would not accuse the man of not acting in a responsible manner.

It saddens me that Mr. Boselovic assumes that WQED got to its prestigious state without the sage and hands-on leadership of Mr. Miles. Pittsburghers and especially the Post-Gazette should understand the time and energy put forth by Mr. Miles and his exceptional staff to produce this outstanding educational and entertainment venue. How he has done this ought to be appreciated, not chastised, since he works harder than most in the media business to provide a valuable product that we should all appreciate. Please don't make his energy and hard work something to be ashamed of.

TIME ON HIS SIDE?

I found the article ("WQED Chief on AIG Board, Several Others") about George L. Miles Jr. infuriating. Let me understand this: He serves on the audit committee of AIG, the University of Pittsburgh's board of trustees, the boards of Equitable Resources, HFF and Wesco International and Harley-Davidson while being WQED Multimedia president and CEO. Apparently his attendance at the meetings of these companies has been good, and he had no problem finding time for all the activities involved with these duties. He must not be needed in his job at WQED.

How proud he must be of his service at AIG; his auditing skills are on display for the world to see. While he has been out flitting about and "loving it," volunteers have worked hard at yet another begging session, asking for money to provide Miles' exorbitant salary while WQED offers more Doo Wop and reruns.

'CHILD'S WAY' CAN HELP

Thank you for highlighting the dilemma faced by working parents of chronically ill children in your article Oct. 12, "Sick Children Present a Dilemma for Workers." The stress experienced by these parents can be magnified to unmanageable levels. Most parents need to maintain their jobs not only for income but to retain health benefits from their employers.

Ten years ago, a program called Child's Way began for families with chronically ill children. Open Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Child's Way is a day-care program for children up to age 8 with ongoing special medical needs including seizure disorders, cardiac issues, diabetes, tracheotomies, ventilator-dependence and more.

The center is staffed by pediatric registered nurses and child-care associates who coordinate each child's daily medical care including blood work, therapies, communicating with his or her pediatrician, while helping reduce trips to emergency rooms.

Meanwhile, children have an opportunity to participate in crafts, singing and music, outdoor play, developmental and educational activities, nap time and more. Many parents use Child's Way as an alternative or supplement to in-home nursing.

The health-care costs are covered by insurance, and day-care fees are determined based on a sliding scale.

I wish that every parent who struggles with caring for a medically fragile child knew about Child's Way as an option.

For information or to find out if a child is eligible, parents can visit www.childrenshomepgh.org and click on the "Child's Way" tab, or call our admissions coordinator at 412-441-4884, ext. 1007.