event calendar

The People Speak

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

This is a note to express my heart filled gratitude to the Gilmer community.

When I first came here, 4-1/2 years ago, I wasn’t sure if I was making the right decision. Very soon it became apparent that it was a blessing indeed to live in your community and be of service to you all.

You all had treated me as a son, a brother and a friend. I cannot find words to express how much you all meant to me.

I want to thank all my patients especially from the bottom of my heart for trusting me to take care of them and to their families for entrusting their loved one under my care.

I have been greatly humbled by you all.

Nothing meant to be more than coming and seeing you all every day at work and cutting up with you all and seeing you all smile even with your illnesses.

I wouldn’t like to leave without saying thank you to my friends at the Gilmer Police Dept., Sheriff’s Dept., and to all the state troopers for the professional courtesy that you had showed me. I admire you all for the brave job that you all do, you are all indeed heroes.

It’s with a heavy heart that I leave your community, but like they say, “life will go on.”

You all will truly be missed.

Thank you once again. May God continue to pour His blessings on this great community.

Dr. Ilanko Upendran

Dear Editor:

The Old Gilmer

Elementary School

“Alma mater, alma mater, deep graven on each heart.

Will be found unwavering true when we from life must part.”

There you sit on the corner of Scott and Bledsoe Streets here in Gilmer.

My memories of you start in 1942. I came to town half way through my first grade year. Scared. Only knew one soul . . . Patsy Fowler!

Loved all my teachers! Made lots of life-long friends. I got promoted from the first through sixth grades . . . learning along the way that there WAS an end to that long hallway leading to the “big” kids’ rooms. There was a play room where we spent recess if the weather wasn’t nice . . . I still remember the smell of sweaty little bodies as we sat crowded together on the floor! There were flag drills . . . marching outside to You’re a Grand Old Flag, saluting and pledging allegiance with orderly respect.

Well, you won’t be used for a school anymore . . . new ones replaced you. No children will walk your hallways or use your playground. None will benefit from games like “Little White House on Top of the Hill”, “Slinging Statues”, or “Pop the Whip” which taught use basic life lessons we carry with us still.

So, I guess this is my tribute to you . . . to the days, weeks, months and years of my life that you were MY school, AND my children’s school, Treasured memories!

LaVelle Crow, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I’m sending you a story about my Dad. Many people might remember him ­— in his ties to the general area and people he cared much about. Since Father’s Day is an upcoming event, I was hoping you could use this story about my father to emphasize the importance of a father spending time with his children in a positive way.

The bond I had with my Dad was strengthened through our fishing trips. Beside the attention that was given, I learned the good of what life has to offer which is to love and to be loved. But of course, it depends on the father, and I was “so lucky” in that department.

David Bass, Quitman

The Last Fishing Trip of Billy Bass, My Dad

The atmosphere of our home seems like a clear look in the past where hunters feed and clothed the family along with other most essential needs.

Maybe, this life did not depend so much on our hunting and foraging skills as it did in the past, but in spirit it was alive.

At home, on road trips, or at other play, we planned our hunting or fishing trips that took care of idle time.

In many trips to our neighbor lake, we discovered the thrill of a fish pulling our line and fighting with all its might against our little cane poles.

My brothers and I would jerk perches from the bank as we watched our Dad land nice bass, while fishing from an old flat bottom.

It was a time when the sport of bass fishing, as we know it today, was still in the infant stage.

Oh how luck has it, big man-made lakes begin to spread over the land.

The evolution of the fishing equipment was also a glorious ride which made our fishing trips more bountiful and productive.

Much thought and energy of fishing was spent and became a big part of my Dad’s life.

Every time that we had a chance in our busy world, we would head to the lake to make joyous memories of catching hundreds of bass.

In order to feed his growing family, he began to put his efforts into industrial plans of making a fishing lure and from there, he became a fishing guide.

His guide trips took most of his free times, and for fishing trips I had to fin for myself.

But when times came about when we could have a fishing trip together, we neglected our other duties to enjoy our love for bass fishing.

These fishing trips were much more than catching a lot of bass; through his love of life, friends and family, time was lost in conversations that would later become my reference for guidance in my future.

As life gets in the way of us enjoying our guilty pleasure, we got caught in our duties and went our separate ways.

Time passed and our new life developments took a new meaning and devour all care free moments that this new life had to offer.

My Dad’s health began to weaken that now he is an old man — small and frail.

Instead of him stealing time to take me fishing when I had no other way, it was up to me to take him — which was a pleasure that I much enjoyed.

For me to take this man who gave me so much in many ways was a sweet labor.

As his health kept failing, our fishing trips were smaller in time, but still a pleasure for we would relive the days of the past.

Then it finally happened, the last fishing trip of my Dad — which at the time neither one of us knew would take place.

I took my Dad to my favorite lake named, Bob Sandlin, in the piney woods of Northeast Texas.

For some reason, that I did not know why, I wanted to show my Dad that what he taught me about fishing over the years was not wasted.

In our first fishing hole, not many were caught but they were large — up to seven pounds.

I told Dad that his hole reminded me of a setup we had at our old favorite lake, Lake O’ the Pines, where we caught many nice ones.

After fishing the early top water holes, we headed for my schooling areas.

Oh what a beautiful day, the temp was in the low 70’s with a cloud cover which usually meant a non-stop action day of fishes of plenty could be our way.

In the middle of this open area, well so it seems, for underneath the stained water were many holes in the coon tale moss.

Laying low in those holes were nice-size bass, they waited to ambush unexpected prey of small feed fish.

There were boated many — using a lure that bares my Dad’s name. So many indeed that it wore my Father for he had to take a long break.

In ending our trip, I had to take Dad to a tree line where big ones were schooling free.

As I watched Dad cast what was his last, he hooked a big one that might weigh nine or ten pounds easily.

But as things came to be, he wore out and the fish was free.

The realization of life set in, for I knew then not many, if any more, would be hooked by this man.

My Father asked me what was wrong, but I could not answer for if I said it out loud the words would make it even truer.

After a short ride to the camp near the dam, we said our good-byes — not realizing that this was our last fishing trip together.

Now after two years have gone by since his passing, I can look back at that time and grin for I wonder if Dad has had a second chance with the big one who got away.

Dad, I miss you and remember the times we had and I hope those times will stay with me forever and everyday.

Dear Editor:

I recently spent time in the ETMC hospital in Gilmer. I felt I needed to write to you and let the people of Upshur County know how fortunate we should feel to have such a wonderful facility so close to home. From the moment I arrived at the emergency room to the time I was released five days later, I felt so blessed to have the level of care I received.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Huff, the nurses, support staff, and all those technicians that had a part in my recovery. So thank you and God bless each and everyone of you.

We always hear the negatives, but good news is not always shared. Thank you so much!

Stacia Dugger, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

On July 2, 1944 Forrest Johnson was killed on Saipan during World War II. Forrest was born and raised in the Oak Hill/Bettie community. He was brought back to rest in the Oak Hill Cemetery.

Every year for 63 years a red, white and blue floral wreath has been placed on his headstone in observance of Oak Hill Homecoming and also for the National observance of memorial for veterans in our country.

For two years the floral wreath has been taken from his headstone, leaving it bare for Memorial Day.

We cannot understand why someone would take this from someone who died serving his country.

Jeanne Johnson, Gilmer

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following letters were written by Gilmer Intermediate School fifth grade students. Their subject is especially timely in a week when the national average gasoline price topped $4 a gallon, and the price approached that mark here. The closing of each letter — either “Sincerely” or “Your friend,” — was omitted. The letters are not edited otherwise.

Dear Editor:

I think that grown-ups are using too much gas. I think if grown-ups ride bikes or walk to places they need to go that would help the gas problem.

Maybe you can carpool with coworkers or friends. If you plan trips and write what you need, that would save gas. When you go fast, you use more gas. If you drive slower, you save more gas. If you get a hybrid car or a car that can go farther on one gallon of gas you will save gas, too.

If grown-ups don’t use gas wisely, it will someday be gone.

Jason Gonzalez

Dear Editor:

I’m concerned about gas prices and how high they’ve become. I have some ideas on what our community could do.

If you carpool, you’ll save gas and have fun in your groups spending time together. Gas is way too high so, if you carpool, you can save more gas taking one car to the same place.

Another thing you can do is when you get groceries, get three weeks worth. Then you won’t have to keep on going back to the store and waste gas.

You can buy hybrids that don’t use that much gas.

So if you can do any of this, you can help save gas and save money.

Chasity Thomas

Dear Editor:

As you have all noticed, our fuel prices have been drastically raising.

Many restaurants have been raising prices or downsizing portions, and our economy is rapidly decreasing.

The fuel prices have an affect on everyday needs. There is not anything that fuel prices do not affect — clothing, entertainment, groceries and wood mills.

In fact, several sawmills have closed down partly because they can not afford the fuel that their trucks need.

Some people are downsizing their vehicles and buying economy sized cars, and others are carpooling because in one way or another, all families have felt the affect of rising fuel prices.

This has become a struggle for businesses, especially trucking companies.

Many people strongly feel that the government should take a stand against the big oil companies in this situation.

Others feel that the government should stay out of it.

Although we are just one county in this large state, we can really make a difference if we all look at better ways to save fuel.

Taylor Montgomery

Dear Editor:

The gasoline in the world is running out and you can help. I know what you are thinking, “How can I help?”

You can help in tons of ways. One way you can help is to carpool. More people in a car can help because you don’t use as many cars. Other ways you can help are drive slower, get a world friendly car, and start planning your errands so you don’t make extra trips.

One more way is to ask your boss if you can work at home for one day a week. I bet you’re thinking, “What? My boss won’t let me do that,” but you will never know if you have never tried. They are already doing that in some places.

Thank you for reading my letter and just know you CAN help. I’m sure there are more ways than I’ve told you.

Also, just be warned if we don’t start helping save gas, one day when we go to get gas there will not be any. Please help conserve gas. Starting to help now is the best way.

Zoe Hughes

Dear Editor:

Last week, in my science class, we watched many cars and trucks drive down Hwy. 271 North.

What we saw was ridiculous. Almost every car had one person in it! I think more people in our community should carpool because gas prices are extremely high now. There are a lot of other advantages to carpooling.

For instance, there will be less traffic on the roads, and so there’s less likely a chance of having wrecks. Our roads won’t break down as fast and there’s a chance to spend time with each other when you carpool.

I hope you give it a shot. It may really help us right now. If we all make one change it may help us change our country.

Louren Thompson

Dear Editor:

Hi, my name is Chyanna Loyd. I am in the fifth grade at Gilmer Intermediate. I wanted to let you know that I am sick of the gas prices!! I just want to scream.

My family and I can’t go to as many places now because of this situation. Probably many more families are having the same problem.

I have some ideas on ways to help these CRAZY gas prices! We can stop buying gas for 4-5 days, and maybe the gas companies will say, “Hey these people aren’t buying gas, maybe we should lower it!” Or we should start saving our gas by car pooling. If four people live near each other they shouldn’t take four cars to the same place. They should use one!

Thank you for listening! I hope you will use some of my ideas to help you with the CRAZY gas prices!!

Chyanna Loyd

Dear Editor:

HERE WE GO AGAIN! Yet another petition is being circulated to place an amendment on the General Election ballot in November to abolish the Unit Road System! And what is more appalling is the fact that it was brought to my door by my elected Commissioner for Pct. 1, James Crittenden, who asked if I would like to sign it! I found this highly inappropriate.

The Unit System for the management of our county roads was passed overwhelmingly in November 2002, much to the dismay and disapproval of the Commissioners of Upshur County. During the first year following its institution in 2003, the County (that’s We, the Taxpayers) saved $750,000!

Even with that, due in most part to the continuous complaints by the Commissioners, a petition to call a Special Election was filed to abolish the Unit System and regress to the previous, more-expensive system of FOUR individual precinct barns, equipment, personnel and budgets which they could independently control. This special election was held in February 2005 at a cost to the Taxpayers of approximately $7,000 and FAILED!

Do their efforts to justify their annual salaries of $40,990.32 plus $14,884.58 in benefits (with the exception of Commissioner Glen Campbell’s salary of $39,490.32 plus $14,600.93 in benefits after he refused the latest $1,500 raise), and their steadfast resistance to complying with the mandate of the majority of the voters lead them to excuse their ineffective management and blame the Unit System?

How about hiring a qualified engineer? I have been told they couldn’t find one, but I find that hard to believe in the current economy!

What part of “NO” do they not understand? They should quit their whining and complaining and get on with the effective execution of the voters’ wishes.

Patt Lindsey, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Yesterday, May 10, 2008, I attended graduation exercises at Texas A&M University at College Station. I was invited by Maura Holcomb, one of the many Gilmer students I have had the wonderful privilege to teach in my studio career.

Maura was a “product” of the Gilmer ISD. She was the valedictorian of the Gilmer High School Class of 2003, was majorette and drum majorette of the varsity band, and was a member of the All-State Band of four years, two in which she sat first chair.

Maura will enter Baylor School of Medicine this summer in Houston, having chosen Baylor over numerous other medical school offers of admission.

As I observed the ceremony, my thoughts continually turned to all of the dedicated teachers in Gilmer ISD who taught Maura and gave her the strong academic foundation to achieve this goal. I taught Maura clarinet and encouraged her in her daily walk with God, but the outstanding teachers in the Gilmer public schools, through their exceptional excellence, provided her, as well as many of our Gilmer kids, such a wonderful education.

I applaud each and every one of you. May God bless all of you.

Dr. Marcy Ragland, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

A response to “A New Reason To Go To War” in Saturday’s edition of The Gilmer Mirror:

NATO, as in the title North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a treaty and is the Supreme law of the land, per Article, VI of the U.S. Constitution. In that treaty, we, the United States of America, have promised to come to the aid of member nations such as Croatia and Albania, if they are member nations, to defend their freedom.

The President, as the chief administrative officer of the Federal government, is required to administer and/or enforce the laws of the land. Treaties ratified by the Senate and still in force because neither party, Democrat or Republican, wants to change them.

As far as NATO and all the other alphabet soup organizations we are a part of, I’m for abrogating our treaties and starting over, starting with Mexico all the way to the U.N. As to the $10,000,000,000 a month it is costing us, that’s a bargain, being that the dollar is worth less (or worthless) than three cents vs. what it was worth in pre-World War II dollars.

As to lives being spent or wasted to preserve the authors’ freedom to complain, World War II cost an average of 450 lives — men and women, sons and daughters, father’s and mother’s flesh and blood — every day of the war, sometimes losing more than 4,000 lives a day in some operations. The joke is, “How can you tell if a politician is lying to you?” Answer: “If you see their lips moving.” It’s not funny it is?

Like Sheldon Richman I can complain a lot more, but this will do for now.

Robert E. Kovacs, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Phenomenal is the word that came to mind Saturday as I witnessed the procession and services for Colonel Cullen Earp. Bill Starnes and the group of Sons of Confederate Veterans certainly deserve accolades for their interest in Upshur County's participation in the Civil War.

Their meetings and studies regarding this disturbing era in our country's history examine all facets of the war and its effect on those fighting and those at home that were equally touched by its enormity. The study of the different flags used, medicines and medical practices at that time, clothing, and of course the battles themselves are interesting and awe inspiring.

Bill and group, Good Job, and may Colonel Earp now rest in eternal peace.

Bridget Fowler, Gilmer

Director/Manager

Gilmer Main Street, Civic Center

Dear Editor:

George Bush’s economic stimulus package will give individuals who have an income between $3,000 and $75,000 check amounts of $300 to $600, according to www.jbs.org/. Married taxpayers who earn up to $150,000 will receive $1,200. Included in this package is also a $300-per-child tax credit. According to CNNMoney.com, “The package also includes tax breaks for equipment purchases by businesses, as well as payments to disabled veterans and some senior citizens.”

Critics of the measure included congressman and presidential candidate Ron Paul. In his weekly column, Paul stated: “I am in favor of taxpayers getting some of their money back, however temporary tax cuts and one-time rebates will not ‘fix’ the economy. What we desperately need right now is real deep significant tax cuts that are enabled by big spending cuts and reduction of government waste that is so rampant. Unfortunately, too many in Washington still believe we can spend our way into prosperity, which does not work and never has.”

I agree. The government is merely returning money that was ours to start with. Instead Congress should abolish the Marxist Progressive Income Tax by repealing the Sixteenth Amendment and return us to the freedom to invest in unregulated production for prosperity.

Frank M. Pelteson, Las Vegas, Nev.

Dear Editor:

Thank God somebody in this country is taking action, in view of the complete circus that is unfolding in the national election arena where none of the major candidates seem to even care about our U.S. Constitution! I’ve never seen it this bad.

However, I just read in The New American magazine at thenewamerican.com, that the John Birch Society (a non-profit educational organization) has organized what they call their growing “mass collaboration” nationwide effort online and through meetings with like minded people and groups, to preserve our families and freedoms through creating an online community of education and action in accordance with constitutional and moral principles.

Their stated strategy is to provide the opportunity for people to support our national Constitution by organizing a JBS.org Freedom Campaign Meetup group at www.JBS.org -click on: Meetup, or call: 1-800-JBS-USA-1 for free JBS information packet.

Without a doubt, I feel, we as Americans, have the abilities and resources to preserve our families and freedoms by FORCING CONGRESS TO ADHERE TO THE CONSTITUTION, but we must get organized to be successful. LET’S DO IT! Ginger Axton, Landers, Calif.

Dear Editor:

It is time again to speak out against this travesty and this tragedy. I have been staying silent too long.

First of all, we now have been in Iraq longer than World War II, Korea, World War I, the Spanish-American War, the Civil War and the war with Mexico!

That is an absolute atrocity. Five years, 4,000 dead, 500 billion dollars, wasted and no sign of an end or a victory in sight. It’s appalling.

Nothing accomplished except death and destruction, chaos and mayhem.

Five hundred billion dollars of our money — in other words, yours and mine.

What do ya’ll think about our money being wasted like that? I want some feedback on this.

As far as this troop surge goes, it is obvious to me that it is not working and never will. I have a great idea for a troop surge. Let’s surge our troops back home, where they belong. Now that is a troop surge I can live with. How about ya’ll.

Now believe it or not, I was not against this in the beginning.

But the lies changed my opinion 180 degrees. First it was the mission accomplished lie; but the one that did it though was the lie about WMDs. It turned out that Iraq didn’t have any.

Now isn’t that one of the reasons we went there in the first place?

I am just so appalled and sickened by all this. We all need to be sickened by this.

I am so glad that my cousin is retiring this year.

George McLuckie III, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

As if animal welfare concerns and climbing egg prices weren’t reason enough to stop eating eggs, now comes the alarming news that middle-aged men who eat seven or more eggs a week are more likely to die young.

Diabetic men who eat eggs—even just one or two—have an even greater risk of dying early, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Eggs are high in cholesterol, which can clog arteries and raise your risk for a heart attack or stroke—regardless of your age or gender.

Fortunately, there are healthy, humane egg alternatives. Crumbled and seasoned tofu makes delicious morning scrambles and Ener-G Egg Replacer is a cholesterol-free powdered mix that can be used in place of eggs in baked goods.

Gum Technology is also introducing a formula for food manufacturers to use in place of eggs in their products. To learn more about egg alternatives, visit www.VegCooking.com.

Heather Moore, Norfolk, Va.

Senior Writer, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

HeatherM@peta.org

Dear Editor:

As concerned retired teachers, we are distressed to see the low scores on the recent TAKS tests at Gilmer Elementary School. We feel that the curriculum in the lower grades has hindered the learning process.

Phonics has been taken very lightly in the teaching of reading and as experienced teachers, we know that most children learn phonetically and this helps them in reading, writing, and spelling.

We feel the responsibility for the unacceptable rating at the Elementary School is the result of curriculum that does not include phonics, spelling, pencil and paper activities for math, or any fact drills.

This new curriculum for the last four years is presently an integral part of our K-4 grades.

We feel that it would be wise for the Elementary School to have a more balanced curriculum which would include phonics, reading practice, paper and pencil activities for math, fact drills and other proven methods.

Teachers know how to teach; they know what works. We also feel that teacher input is essential in finding out what does work.

We are very excited to see new teachers coming to our schools, but we feel that a mentor program needs to be in place. There is nothing more valuable than an experienced teacher who can help a new teacher through that all-important first year of teaching.

There is no replacement for experience and we feel that veteran teachers need to know that they are valued and appreciated. We see them as the glue that holds our schools together.

Having invested 40 years in the lives of students at Gilmer Elementary, we want our schools to grow and prosper. It is our hope that the administration and teachers will work together to create a more balanced curriculum which will help our students to be successful.

M.A. Wright, Gilmer

T.K. Jenkins, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Our medical services here in America are far superior to those of other nations. Still there is a major crisis in the continual financing for hospitals, doctors, and medication.

Many things have/and continually contribute to this major crisis. These include providing free medical care for illegal immigrants, the excessive charges of hospitals, doctors, and the pharmaceutical industry, and going to the doctor for every little pain.

Politicians are seeking to legalize illegal immigrants and neglecting to curtail their illegal flow across our national borders. Evidently the desire of politicians is to legalize them for the primary purpose of receiving their vote in the political arena. Providing them free medical care has forced some hospitals to either charge excessive prices to those with insurance and/or close their doors. If our nation needs foreign workers, then let them go through the process of becoming legalized citizens prior to crossing our borders.

Hospitals, doctors, and the pharmaceutical industry may “kill the goose that laid the golden eggs.” By this I mean that the cost in providing Medicare and Medicaid to the elderly is rising drastically. Many who have provided medical service for us have provided good service and their charge has been in line with what it should have been.

Nevertheless, some who provide medical service have overcharged and kept you in appointments that were not necessary. And the proposal of some politicians to enact a social medical system will only intensify this crisis.

There is a proposal before congress to reduce these government benefits. Some doctors are already refusing to take on any more elderly patients who only have Medicare and Medicaid insurance. This will create a hardship on the elderly who have limited resources Those senior citizens who have worked hard all of their productive life will be hurt more than any other segment of our society.

Whether or not you are a senior citizen depending heavily upon Medicare and Medicaid, or a future senior citizen, you need to write your congressmen and senators in Washington, D.C. protesting the proposal to reduce these benefits. You need to do this before this summer when that proposal may be enacted by July 1.

Dub Mowery, Pritchett

Dear Editor:

This letter is to thank a group of people who go beyond the call of duty without any complaints. The group of people are the ones at the Gilmer Post Office.

I sell items on E-Bay every week, and I go to the post office twice a week loaded down with packages.

When it’s my turn at the counter, I stack them up and they start putting the postage on them, without any complaints, and we usually have a nice conversation while they do it.

I really appreciate their loyalty to their jobs, and there couldn’t be any nicer people.

Thanks Gilmer Post Office. You are great!

Susan New, Pittsburg

Dear Editor:

This is a first time to write to the Editor. We are citizens of Upshur County, Union Grove, and I felt I wanted to address a certain issue. That issue being:

Everyone likes to be told they are doing a good job, even those that are being compensated for their work. Our District Attorney, Billy Byrd and his staff needs a BIG "Thank You."

I have observed Mr. Byrd in Court on two occasions, as well as reading about cases in the paper, and feel he puts his whole heart into each one. I have worked in the public most of my life and I know from my own work that it doesn't always start at 8:00 a.m. and end at 5:00 p.m. I surmise that from the results of his cases, Mr. Byrd puts in many additional hours. This also includes the people he has working with him. As the saying goes, "behind every great man there stands a good woman." The principle is the same.

I knew Mr. Byrd's grandparents; good people. I know his mom personally, also good people, and are still involved in community happenings in helping to encourage young people in their endeavors.

I feel when you are reared in a family atmosphere where integrity and good examples are set before you, will have a bearing on how they react to our world and people.

This D. A.'s office is certainly trying to send a message to Upshur County that our streets are being cleaned-up. We also have a judge that renders decisions which is both fair and unpartial and is respected by all. Thanks Judge Parish.

Thank you, Billy Byrd and staff.

Joan McCrary, Gladewater

Dear Editor:

In your February 27 issue I noticed your article on page 2A about the new book, Rare Plants of Texas.

Jason Singhurst, a botanist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, was one of the four authors of this book and he came to the February meeting of the Northeast Texas Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas to review this new book.

Several members of this chapter purchased the book, about which Jason gave an informative review including background and rare plants in or near our area.

As a result of this meeting, Jason agreed to come to Upshur County which has some stands of lizard's tail (saururus cernuus), which is not rare but which sometimes contains a companion plant which is rare, the green rein orchid. It would indeed be a coup if Upshur County was proven to have some specimens of the green rein orchid.

Oddly, Upshur County is not listed in the USDA distribution maps as containing the lizard's tail plant. It does not take much to get our county listed. Jason needs to gather plants, photograph and time them, and gather some other botanical materials to prove that Upshur County indeed is one of the few counties in Texas where this plant, although not rare, grows.

Some of you may have this lizard's tail plant growing on your boggy land, and if so you could forward this information to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department so Upshur County could be added to the USDA distribution maps.

Since it grows in boggy areas, from April to August, identification of this plant would not impede economic development.

Nell Freedman, Ore City

Dear Editor:

Well, it’s almost that time — for what I call the 5-year tragedy or 5-year tragic mistake.

In case no one has paid attention, let me tell you that we have now been in Iraq longer than we were in WWII. And what exactly do we have to show for it?

I will tell you, absolutely nothing. Except a death toll of 4,000.

I find that very disturbing, appalling and disgusting. Five years with still no hope of victory or ever achieving it. I mean, come on people, get a grip, don’t you think five years is long enough? I do.

Our troops have done all they can and then some. It is time to bring them home.

I find it sickening that people really think democracy can work over there. Are you kidding? Wake up, people.

I have been doing a lot of pondering about this and I cannot come up with one good solid legitimate reason why 4,000 of our troops are dead. Actually, there is not a good reason.

I’ll tell you what else I am fed up with. I am tired of “operation this” or “operation that” or “operation something else.” It is not doing any good, has never, and will never do any good.

In my opinion, the last five years have been a total waste of time and a complete waste of lives.

I have a good one — how about “operation bring our troops home right now?” That sounds like a winner to me; doesn’t it to you, too??

I got this out of a past Newsweek, “Iraq, Too Little Too Late.”

The cultural warriors make it sound like a revelation, that if you want to occupy a country, you need to know something about its culture. In fact it’s so basic as to be self-evident. But it dawned on our leaders about five years too late. If we had some understanding before invading Iraq, we might have more of a clue what we are doing there, or had better sense than to do it. It is all just so sad, these last five years — a very, very sad tragedy all the way around.

George McLuckie III, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

The IRS needs your help.

Starting in May, economic stimulus payments of up to $600 for individuals ($1,200 for married couples) will be issued by the IRS based on 2007 tax returns. Parents also get $300 for each eligible child.

People must file a 2007 tax return. That’s it. But here’s where the IRS needs help. Millions of people are eligible, but may not know it. These are certain retirees, disabled vets and low-wage workers who normally don’t file a tax return. This year, they must file to receive the payments.

People can help not just the IRS but perhaps themselves, friends or family. Help us spread the word. People who have at least $3,000 from wages or certain benefits from Social Security, Railroad Retirement and Veterans Affairs may be eligible.

They need to file a return. We’ll do the rest. Please, visit www.irs.gov for details.

Clay Sanford, Dallas

Internal Revenue Service

Media Relations Office - North Texas Region

Dear Editor:

We have often seen the phrase: “under new management” in front of an existing business. It may be the new managers have simply bought out an established business. In this case they are taking pride in announcing that they are the new owners. On the other hand, the owners of a given business may not run it themselves, but depend upon a trusted employee to manage their enterprise. It is their prerogative to change managers.

The new owner or manager of a business implies that things will be improved by the change. You and I know that is not necessarily so. Many such changes prove to be less desirable, to say the least.

It is natural for all of us to seek improvement in our lives. This may include: our personal well being, such things as our health, relationship with others, our financial status, and the political climate.

Without exception politicians, especially when running against incumbents, promise change. This includes local, state, and national elections. It would be wonderful if we could wave a magic wand and presto the right candidate won the election.

We, as individuals, may be motivated differently in voting for a particular candidate running for a specific public office. It might be “bread and butter issues,” or other things in which we believe takes priority. This year’s national election for the next president of the United States seems to ride on at least three major issues: “the bread and butter issues,” immigration, and national defense.

Whether it be political party affiliation, the national media, political polls, or how someone else votes should not be the deciding factor in how you or I vote. Regardless of whether it is a local, state, or national election we should exercise our right as a citizen to vote for the candidate of our chose.

Dub Mowery, Pritchett

Dear Editor:

On Feb. 1, 2008 my daughter and I attended 188th district court in Longview.

We were three for two reasons. 1) A family member was to stand before the judge and be sentenced for felony DWI. 2) My daughter was to take notes for a report for her college government class.

After my family member was sentenced, the judge announced that he was taking a break. He sat in the courtroom along with several attorneys. Also present were his bailiff and a couple of staff members.

As my family member was being led away, the bailiff and another officer made some loud, crude remarks about him. The judge and attorneys joined in with laughter and more crude remarks.

They all continued to laugh, and heckle, and made disparaging remarks, even after my relative left the room. All of this occurred while my daughter and I sat there in the courtroom, feeling embarrassed and humiliated.

My daughter stood up and said, “Excuse me, that is my family you are talking about.”

At this point, the judge and the attorneys stopped laughing. The bailiff followed us to the elevator saying that we had no right to be offended and then three times, he told us that we “just needed to leave before we got into trouble.”

I have attended court in another county several times. I have never heard another judge or attorney make fun of a defendant during court or during a break.

What kind of professional people are working at the 188th district court in Longview? Surely, this is not the norm?

As a nurse, if I was rude or attempted to humiliate a patient in front of others in the waiting room, I would be reprimanded by my employer, sued by the patient and subject to loss of my license by the state of Texas.

Certainly a judge and attorneys should be held to a similar fate.

What kind of person would ridicule a man in front of his family? We were so sad and grief stricken and then to be there in a place of “justice” to hear him being laughed at and mocked.

I believe the judge owes my daughter and me an apology and his staff needs a lesson in sensitivity and a refresher course in civil rights.

Penny Jones, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I hope you can help me. I lived in Gilmer in 1955 and had a sister who died on June 14 of that year. I have the obit from the paper and a death certificate. I want to try to locate the place where we lived. Does anyone remember Route 5, Box 372A?

We have been to the County Clerk’s office, the 911 Mapping Office, the library, Post Office and the Appraisors office with no luck.

Barbara S. Irwin, Arlington

EDITOR’S NOTE: Ms. Erwin can be reached by e-mail at BSIrwin1029@netzero.com

Dear Editor:

On Jan. 5 of this new year, my husband, my daughter and her friend, my grandson and I took a trip to Mena, Ark.

On Sunday, Jan. 6, as we were coming back home through the mountains, we got a text from our other daughter saying our home had been robbed. We were devastated! Not believing someone could do this to us — but they did!

My oldest grandchild, age 11, had walked down to my house hoping to find that I had left a door unlocked for them to come in and get a Dr. Pepper or two, as I do a lot. Only this trip, we not only locked the house up tight, but we closed and padlocked our front gate. She found the door to the back busted in and she ran inside and saw the house had been destroyed so she called up to her mom’s very upset.

To make that part short, my other children called the Sheriff’s Office and they came and we talked to them over the phone until we could get there.

I arrived home to find five crying grandchildren very scared and upset. My bedroom was destroyed. My dresser drawers were thrown everywhere and broken, after everything was gone through. So violating!

My husband’s gun cabinet was broken and five guns were stolen. Everything was thrown everywhere in my closet and bathroom. What they didn’t take, they tore up.

Now, the reason I am writing this — I feel and need to vent my anger.

I am a Christian person and I try to get along with all people. You know who you are that did this and I would like to know why.

What could you get from stealing my husband’s guitar? Do you know the love that came with that gift? No and you don’t care. It was given by two special friends who are now gone on — and it was played so often to my little grandsons.

But then, you don’t care.

Have you gone through all the pictures on my digital camera? I had pictures of my youngest granddaughter being born.

Can’t go back and retake those now can I? But what’s that to you?

What about my daughter’s laptop computer, filled with over 300 pictures, mainly of her son from birth to now age four.

His Christmases, his birthdays — irreplaceable.

Who cares? Not you.

What about my husband and my wedding rings and band? Given as a symbol of our love nearly 30 years ago.

My husband’s company truck. It contained everything he needs to work with and has worked with for 20 years. His tools, his contacts, his new company jacket he just got for Christmas, his medicine, all his CDs.

And those guns. You just can’t imagine the heartache there. Two were family heirlooms. You can’t even buy one of them anymore it was so old. And this really makes me mad, two of them belonged to two of my grandsons, one is six and one is four. And then you go and take my granddaughter’s little 4-wheeler — so cruel.

There was so much stolen and too much to list. But, then you know what you took. You’ve probably spent a lot of the money you got from the pawn stores and drug dealers and surely from the sell of that truck alone the money should last you quite awhile.

I have prayed that you would be sick at your stomach over this, so sick that you won’t be able to keep food down and then I thought I better pray for your soul.

I want you to know I do. I will try to forgive you with time, just like with time I will be able to sleep in my own bedroom again without feeling the presence of thieves there again.

But through it all, I am thankful that you were gone before my granddaughter arrived.

And I am thankful for our local Sheriff’s Office, for good deputies and investigators, because they are dedicated to their job with limited time and help and I know they will solve this case.

Annette Anderson, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I am writing to the thief who stole my purse out of my cart in Fred’s store in Pittsburg. You stole my purse and did not even realize you were “on camera” in Fred’s . . .

You took off to Mt. Pleasant, to start using my credit cards and you were able to charge $96.95 to my Visa card . . . They have you on camera there, too.

My car keys were in my hand — not in my purse . . . I could get home quickly to start cancelling cards.

After I cancelled Visa, you tried others at Wal-Mart . . . with a charge of $312.68 (failed) . . . You tried Brookshires for a charge of $206.71 (failed) . . . even Super One, tried for $27.55 (failed again) . . . we’ll see where else.

Did you enjoy the cash in the amount of $60? That was for my utilities — the bills were in my purse, but I guess you didn’t pay them.

The cash was also to be used to send a Christmas package to a grandson who is staying with his mother who has cancer to help her.

I am 72 years old and I can’t pay this twice. It all has to wait until my next Social Security check comes to me and that won’t be until next month . . . then I will be short again.

Did you see the picture in my billfold??? That was one of my precious grandsons that was killed in a wreck in 2004 at 23 years old. My husband of 49 years died in October of 2006 – not too long ago.

Do you feel any remorse or the least bit sorry that you took from me for your own needs. If you had asked, I just may have helped you — who knows . . . If not, there are plenty of organizations who would have helped you buy your groceries and gasoline.

Do you have my address book (full of special addresses and phone number)? Most of them pertained to deaths that occurred in the past few short years . . . addresses of family, friends, and acquaintances . . . all people I was planning to contact over the holidays.

You do have my long distance card for your use, I guess: but, the one you have will soon be out, so you will not get much use out of that one, but I still have numbers for the one you stole and if I call them, you may find yourself in a heap of trouble . . . so sad, too bad.

Back to my address book, I pray if you just threw it out on the highway, some kind and thoughtful person will find it and make an effort to return it to me. I am praying for that.

And, I certainly am in hopes that you did not just throw it in the trash or a dumpster between or in back of Wal-Mart or Fred’s.

Hopefully you still know where it is. I have already checked the lost and found in Mount Pleasant, Wal-Mart — I did not find the address book.

Maybe you can see that it is there when I go back next time. Or, you can take it to the newspaper office closest to you, Mount Pleasant, Pittsburg, Gilmer . . . or just drop it where someone will return it to me.

You came close to ruining Christmas for me, my children and my grandchildren, but I could not let you do that . . . I am enough of a Christian not to let a thief do that . . . instead, I have been praying for you . . . I will keep on.

I pray you and your family had a beautiful Christmas and will have a very Happy New Year. I still have faith in mankind . . . no thief will take my faith in God or man away from me.

Go talk to your pastor about this . . . let him help you pray for forgiveness and show you the way out of the mess you have put yourself and your family into with your stupidity. If I had stolen food, I would have choked on every mouthful. I hope your family did not choke.

Elizabeth Williamson, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Now that Historic Upshur Museum is open again, I wonder why more mention is not made of it in The Gilmer Mirror.

In my opinion, the museum is worthy of a weekly column in your newspaper, because of the vast history collected therein.

I am even sentimental about the building itself, for my memories from the mid-1940s when I frequented Post Office Box 531 there to pick up our mail.

What are the current goals of the museum? The public would be interested to know, and if kept informed, may put forth more effort to support it.

Am I just partial, or isn’t Gilmer the most interesting town in northeast Texas?

Bonnie Shrum Jones, Lantana

Dear Editor:

As Mayor of Gilmer I get to speak for the City of Gilmer.

We are proud of the “Gilmer High School 2007 Buckeyes.” Fourteen-and-one is a great season.

Thanks for the many thrills in 2007.

Buck Cross, Mayor of Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Someone gave me the best Christmas I will have by returning my purse to Wal-Mart with everything intact in it.

Thank the Lord for those good people still out there like you. I would like to thank you in person, but don’t know who you are.

I have asked God to bless you and give you a wonderful Christmas.

Joanna Ray, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I have been holding back on writing letters because I have been sitting back, patiently waiting, hoping, and maybe a little bit of praying to that this almost five-year tragic mistake would somehow come to an end. I was wrong. So it’s time for me to speak out again against this travesty.

First of all, I have to say that I am a big news watcher, and when I saw and actually heard President Bush mention the words W.W. III, I was just speechless and appalled and shocked that he would even think it, much less say it.

In my opinion that statement proves to me that he has totally and completely lost it. No one in their right mind, I hope, would not want a W.W. III. I hope. That is just so shocking to me.

I also have something to say about that Iraqi General coming over here and speaking. He has more nerve than I will ever have. And as for as his statement about W.M.D’s, well first of all I don’t buy it. And second of all, when saying that almost five years after the fact is baloney.

His words have no validity to them whatsoever.

I equate him coming over and speaking to someone left over from the Third Reich coming over here and speaking. He needs to go back where he came from and stay there.

And on the Iraq situation, I still feel it is a lost and hopeless cause. It has been almost five years now, and still no change, except it has just gotten worse and our death toll is now almost 4,000. It is unjust, not worth it any more and it never had been.

I have good news about my cousin. He is stationed in California, where it is safe by the way. He will be retiring next year as a Lt. Colonel. Not bad huh?

I hope this chaotic nonsense does not go on much longer. It is time for our troops to come home now.

George McLuckie, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Regarding the large hog shot and killed by Mr. Gilow. It sounds more like he was stalking and charging the hog, instead of the other way around.

He even went back the next day to find the hog. Somehow I don’t feel Mr. Gilow’s life was in danger.

I hope he feels like a “mighty hunter” every time he looks at the mounted head of Mr. Anderson’s “pet Hampshire hog” on his wall.

I don’t understand why people feel the need to kill and mount parts of an animal on their wall, just because it is larger than normal or more colorful or has some extraordinary feature.

Why can’t they just let it live in peace? Or shoot it with a camera instead of a gun? Just my opinion ...

Kathy Hancock, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

It has been brought to my attention that there are some people in town that are criticizing the Gilmer bands for not being in the Christmas parade last Friday evening and I would like to try and set the record straight.

First of all, the bands have always participated in almost anything they have been asked when there is not a conflict with scheduling. They have played at everything from air shows to civic club meetings, banks and nursing homes just to name a few. Last Friday evening was the Region 4 UIL Junior High All Region auditions at Union Grove High School.

The date of this contest was set last March at the spring meeting of all the band directors in our region. There were 19 school districts that participated in this contest. Over 60 band directors, numerous high school band members, band boosters and even several directors’ wives were utilized in judging and running this event.

All four of the directors employed by Gilmer ISD served as judges. Many of our junior high band members participated and several of them made the All Region Band.

Since all of our directors and many band members participated in this very important, previously scheduled event, there was no way either band could participate in the parade.

I’m not sure who was responsible for the change of the parade, but the chamber was aware of the conflict with the bands by changing it to Friday. I believe in the past it has been changed to Monday and if that had been the case both bands would have been happy to participate.

It wasn’t until I married Eric that I fully realized everything that the bands do. I, like many of you, thought that football games were the main activity for the bands. Boy was I wrong!

The high school band starts the first of August learning music and learning to march. There are two UIL contests for the band as a whole. The first is Marching Contest in the fall and the other is Concert and Sight Reading which is held in spring.

The bands are scored “I”, “II”, “III”, etc. If you score a “I” in both, the bands earns a Sweepstakes trophy for that year. This high school band has been awarded this honor six times out of the last seven years.

If you score a “I” in marching contest, you have the opportunity to advance to the Area marching contest where you in turn have the opportunity to advance to State.

Since the Area contest seems to always fall on the weekend of the Yamboree, our band has been unable to advance even though they have earned the opportunity. They choose to stay here and fulfill their obligations to our community.

As soon as Yamboree is over, the students begin focusing on their All-Region tryouts. They are usually held the first part of December. (Tryouts this year are today, Dec. 8.)

The students have to be in Pittsburg by 7:30 a.m. to get checked in to play off their music. Once they have all played, they will head to Ft. Worth for the football playoff game. (It will be quite a long day for them, but they want to be there for the Buckeyes.)

If they make the All-Region Band then they have the opportunity to advance to the Area competition and if they advance from there, they make the All-State Band.

Over 5,000 students in the state of Texas try out and only about 130 will make the All-State Band.

The All-State Band meets in San Antonio in February for a few days of practice with a renowned guest conductor and a performance. Gilmer usually always has at least one or two students to make the All-State Band, which is quite an accomplishment.

In addition to All-Region, the students also begin making preparations for the Solo and Ensemble Contest which is held in February. The students sign up to play either solos or in ensembles and have an opportunity to advance to the State Solo and Ensemble contest which is held in San Marcos on Memorial Day weekend.

Yes, a lot of times that is after school is out for the summer, but due to the hard work and dedication of our students and directors, we usually take a bus load of students to that contest.

While all of these tryouts and practices are going on, the band is steadily working on their Concert performance.

Concert and Sight Reading Contest is usually held in April. The band plays three pieces for the concert portion and then they are moved to a room where they are given a piece of music, unbeknownst to them or their director. The director has seven minutes to give them verbal instruction. Then they play the piece.

It is an incredible process to watch. All of this in addition to pep rallies, football games, concerts, parades, and the many other things I probably forgot to mention. Our band directors love their jobs and they love our kids.

They are extremely qualified and go well above and beyond the call of duty. They give countless house of instruction before and after school. It is a rare occasion that you pass by the school and not see their cars there.

So please, if you notice they aren’t at something that they normally would gladly participate in, please don’t criticize them. Just know that there was a conflict.

Lynn Gray, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I am composing this letter to you and to the following: the city of Gilmer and county of Upshur and all citizens therein, the Gilmer Chamber of Commerce, Office of the Mayor and staff, Prinicipal and staff of Gilmer High School, Coach Traylor, his assistants and football team, Gilmer Police and Upshur County Sheriff’s Depts., the Govenor of Texas and the honorable President of The United States of America, and most of all, the parents of all athletes and non-athletes of your high school:

All, It is with sincere appreciation and good ol’ East Texas pride that I am taking the time to write my opinions on the fracas that transpired in Mesquite after the game against Roosevelt High School, to the aforementioned citizens and officials.

What I watched on the news was truly one of the most respectful and awe-inspiring code of conduct actions by the Gilmer players I have ever witnessed on high school football covered on local TV. What your young men did required more strength and courage, respect and honor, and teamwork and team effort, than the game of football requires.

I want all citizens and students of your city to know how proud we are down south East Texas way of your players and their character. By showing their faith in each other and their obvious respect for their coach by leaving the field, deserves recognition from everyone anywhere in Texas and the nation.

I think they should all be given a parade whether they win the championship or not, just for the positive actions they displayed when one second of misguided thought, a built-in defense human mechanism, could have started a riot turning very serious with possible injuries, and very negative national news had it happened. Something any of us Texans don’t want, or anywhere else in this great country concerning any sport on any level, needs to hear or read about.

I’ve seen more negative conduct in the NFL, and that is a shame in itself, since it is the NFL and colleges/universities that many of our youth aspire to become a part of.

I think these young men should be getting free hamburgers, free haircuts, certificates of appreciation, a 3-day weekend for all students, free movie passes for players and their dates, a call from the mayor of Dallas, the Govenor of Texas and especially, a call of congratulations from President Bush.

To my knowledge, this event has not made national news that I’ve seen since it happened on any major network, and I think it deserves national attention. The late great bluesman Freddie King of Gilmer is smiling in his grave, I assure you, and writing another good song to boot.

All East Texans, all Texans and all of America should be applauding these fine young men for their sincere courtesy and understanding of the game they love and respect. Most of all, it is the parents of these players, the teachers, the coaches and administrative staff of the schools I sincerely applaud.

Honest-to-goodness old-fashioned Texas courtesy and respect evidently are not a thing of the past in your city. I applaud you all and send my loudest cheers to the team and the students, and to Coach Traylor, for his honest and humanistic approach to coaching young men who may well be our future college and pro players and leaders of our communities.

All my thanks, respect, and best wishes I send and win boys win!

R.W. Carter, Rusk

Dear Editor:

On Nov. 15, U.S. Attorney Johnny Sutton announced the arrest of Osvaldo Aldrete-Davila on drug smuggling charges. Osvaldo Aldrete-Davila, the drug smuggler that testified against Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, was finally arrested for smuggling drugs at a U.S. port of entry. It’s Aldrete-Davila’s third arrest.

After appearing in federal court in El Paso on Friday afternoon, Aldrete-Davila now faces two counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, one count of conspiracy to import a controlled substance and one count of conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. The alleged offenses happened between June 1 and Nov. 30, 2005.

(According to http://thenewamerican.com/node/1664, federally imprisoned Border Patrol Agents Ramos and Compean met up with Aldrete-Davila at the border in February of 2005; at that time he was trying to smuggle $1 million worth of marijuana into the United States.)

Aldrete-Davila could be jailed or heavily fined or both for his latest smuggling attempts. Unfortunately, Johnny Sutton will be the prosecutor, which certainly seems like a conflict of interest in this case.

Incredibly, in the press release concerning Aldrete-Davila’s arrest, Sutton points to the supposed “crimes” of Ramos and Compean with this statement: “Just as Aldrete’s alleged illegal conduct did not excuse the crimes committed by Compean and Ramos, likewise, their crimes will not excuse his.”

I am sickened by the hypocritical attitude of Johnny Sutton for prosecuting the law enforcement agents that tried to arrest the same criminal that he is prosecuting now. I am going to write my congressman about this by going to http://capwiz.com/jbs/issues/alert/?alertid=9355796.

Frank M. Pelteson, Las Vegas, Nev.

Dear Editor:

It is tragic that so few Americans understand what the founders of our nation gave us. Therefore, we have allowed the federal government to erode many of our constitutionally protected rights. Go to www.thenewamerican.com for details. Search: restoring rights.

On July 4, 1776, the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence stated: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed….”

Here, we have the basics of Americanism: 1. People are born with natural or God-given rights to life, liberty, and property. 2. People created the federal government and granted it limited powers for the sole purpose of helping to protect their rights. Both the people and the government must obey the U.S. Constitution. Founded on these principles, the United States became the greatest nation in history.

Unfortunately, much that the federal government does today is unconstitutional. We the people need to contact Congress to make it obey our Constitution.

John A. Clibourn, North Hills, Calif.

Dear Editor:

I would like to share some thoughts about Verl and Marion Hagler. I was their daughter-in-law, but they treated me as their own daughter. I couldn’t have asked for better in-laws.

They always were concerned about their family, and extended family, worrying whether we were taken care of.

They were great caretakers, caring for elderly friends when they were in need. Even going so far as moving in with them to cook, clean and tend to them and their animals. Many of us lived with them also when we needed to.

They adored their grandchildren, of which there were 13, and great-grandchildren, of which there were 10, and the feeling was mutual.

They enjoyed being surrounded by family.

Verl and Marion would plant a huge garden, so that there was enough to share. They did all the preparation and tending it, then having all they needed, sometimes would leave so we had all the rest to harvest. There was always plenty to go around.

Marion would take us girls shopping for clothes occasionally.

She had a great sense of style and picked out things that accentuated our good points, while diminishing our not so good points. She was a very classy lady and sharp dresser.

Marion was also a great cook and enjoyed cooking for her family. Her children and grandchildren knew there was always something good to eat on Grandma’s stove. They knew there would be something left over from breakfast to snack on.

Even if they had just eaten at home, they always had room for more at Grandma’s. She always had a cake, pie, or cookies baked. Her sweet potato pie was always a favorite. She could always find enough to eat when unexpected family or friends arrived.

We all missed Verl and Marion at the Yamboree, this year. He was always there to judge the sweet potatoes. I can see him now dressed in his white felt cowboy hat, white gloves, suit and tie. He took his judging very seriously. The judging of the sweet potatoes was passed on by his father before him. He made a striking figure. Marion was always there to stand by and watch.

Marion was partly responsible for my husband and me getting married. She would invite my brother, who was the preacher at Sand Hill Church of Christ at that time, and I to her house when she knew James as going to be there, also.

She made my wedding dress, hat and bouquet herself. She and my sister-in-law, Marylee, planned and catered our wedding reception.

My mere words are inadequate, and do not do justice to express all Verl and Marion were to me.

Verl and Marion were Christians and lived as such in their everyday lives. Everyone who met them could tell by their actions and speech.

They loved their church family. Marion fixed flowers in vases and pots for the porch and the podium to make them look nice. The Sunday before she lost her life, she had replaced the flowers.

They were on their way to a Gospel meeting when they were in a fatal car accident.

Verl and Marion were great examples of what Christians should be and they are greatly missed, but we all have no doubt as to where their souls will be. If we all live Godly lives, we will see them again in heaven some day.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” II Timothy, 4: 7-8.

Cheryl Hagler, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I have been remiss in not writing this note sooner, but am writing to extend a sincere thank you to all of the ETMC Gilmer staff.

On the Sunday before Labor Day, I had an episode at home that frightened my family so badly that they called the ambulance. Now, we live way out in the country on a little farm. The ambulance driver negotiated both the narrow curvy road to our home, also the pasture behind our house, to get to me.

Both of the EMT’s were very polite and caring, both with me and my family — including my little dog that did not want to leave my side.

I do not remember names, but they will recognize themselves when reminded that on the run raccoonicide was committed.

All of the staff in the ER at ETMC hospital were concerned, efficient, and thorough. They took the situation much more seriously than I did, and I was surprised when the doctor decided to admit me. I hadn’t been hospitalized since my last child was born, 23 years ago!

Everyone at the hospital, from the attending physician, to the dietary and housekeeping staff, was cheerful and caring. The hospital was clean and well-cared for. The needed equipment was available, cat scan, X-ray, portable doppler and full lab on site.

I sometimes hear people disparage our little hospital, but I for one am grateful it is here in Gilmer. We all need to support it, and not just bypass Gilmer ETMC for the larger hospitals in Tyler and Longview.

Sometimes we need to use the bigger medical centers, but at other times we have just what we need here at home.

Thank you, everyone, from the bottom of my heart.

Donna M. Osborne, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Although I do not know whose idea it was to make Pct 1 voters drive 14 extra miles to the ‘outer-edges-of-beyond’ just to vote on Nov. 6 (25 miles if one has only a general idea where East Mountain is, much less where they hide Main Street), I would like that person/persons and everyone else to know that if the idea was to make it too much of a challenge to vote, it did not work. At least not with me. It may have with others.

I will admit that after finally finding East Mountain (I had a vague idea where it was but thought it was closer to 300), and after discovering that the main thoroughfare is NOT Main Street as one would expect, I almost threw up my hands and headed back home without having voted.

It was already very dark by then and growing cold, but I’m not the quitter some voters might be, so I kept looking. Since there are no places open at night in that area where a woman alone feels she can safely stop and ask for help, eventually I discovered where this Main Street was by driving in all directions several miles until I finally happened across the street.

At that point, I realized I was closing in on being able to cast my ballot at last.

Ha! Even though the powers-that-be chose a polling place with poor lighting and with no visible signs that say VOTE HERE, it did not keep me from my duty.

That’s because I eventually spotted several police cars parked under a street light near a small building and stopped there, hoping to ask our helpful men in blue where this mysterious voting place might be. It was when I approached the police dept. door, I noticed a sample ballot taped to another door in the shadows nearby. Inside that darkened door, I found a warm welcome and an awaiting ballot. My world was right again.

Although I had not been able to leave Gilmer until a little after five, I still managed to overcome all these unexpected obstacles and mark my ballot in time to turn it in before the polls closed. So, whoever you are, I want you to know, I overcame it all! I’m proud to say some citizens will vote no matter how difficult the task becomes.

Rosalyn Alsobrook, Gilmer

UpshurBlog.com

gilmermirror@gmail.com