The Gilmer Mirror welcomes letters to the editor on subjects of interest to readers.

All letters must bear the handwritten signature of the writer and include address and phone number(s) for verification purposes.

Names will not be withheld and anonymous letters will not be used.

Letters addressed to third parties will not be published.

Thanks expressed to businesses should be published as advertising.

Letters endorsing or opposing candidates, parties or issues during election campaigns will not be published.

Letter writers are asked to limit their contributions to one submission per month. Priority is given to letters of 500 words or less.

Send letters to Letters to the Editor; c/o The Gilmer Mirror; P.O. Box 250; Gilmer, TX 75644. Fax letters to (903) 843-5123

E-mailed letters sent to gilmermirror@aol.com or gilmermirror@gmail.com should include a telephone number.

The deadline is Monday at 5 p.m. prior to the following Wednesday's publication, and Thursday at 5 p.m. prior to the following Saturday's publication.

Dear Editor:

On Oct. 8, my husband Johnny was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer and our lives were turned inside out.

Immediately, his story was placed on Facebook by family, friends and churches requesting much-needed prayer.

We are so blessed to have such compassionate, caring, loving Christian people in our lives; with many calling with encouraging words to let us know that God would be there with us all the way, to carry us on our uncertain journey.

And my co-workers at Gilmer Care Center who gave so generously of their hard-earned dollars to fund our many trips to Dallas for surgery and treatments.

And Johnny’s special friend Barney and the Gilmer Buckeyes with their weekly drama giving Johnny the desire to fight and dream with hopes of attending another state game.

You all have touched our souls, brightened our lives and you will always be in the deepest part of our hearts thank you for renewing our faith in mankind and God.

We are now sarcoma cancer free.

We are so blessed to live among our friends in East Texas.

You helped us remember the true meaning of CHRISTmas.

Linda and Johnny Threadgill, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

There is a Santa Claus in Upshur County!

I was at Wal-Mart Thursday afternoon, Dec. 17.

I was checking out at the self check out and realized I was a dollar short.

I immediately looked around for someone I knew. There is always someone you know in Wal-Mart.

Not this time!

A very nice man asked me if I had a problem. I explained to him that I did not have my purse with me, only a coin purse, and that I was a dollar short.

He proceeded to take a dollar out of his wallet and give it to me. I told him I needed to find someone I knew so I could pay them back and he said, “Merry Christmas.”

It is so nice to know that we in Gilmer have people that are as caring of others as Wesley Green of Sand Hill.

Thank you Mr. Green for being so nice.

I hope you and your family have a great Christmas.

Toni Jenkins, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

First, I must say “congratulations” to the Mighty Gilmer Buckeyes on winning State.

If I was ever proud of a football team it was the 2009 team.

I commend Coach Traylor and all the other coaches for a job well done, that made this championship possible.

The boys came together as a team and a family to bring us another State trophy.

That Stump Godfrey, I just love to see that young man play. He plays to win, which makes his other team members play to win.

I’m not really a football type of person, but this team had me coming to the games and saying, “Rah-rah, go Buckeyes.”

I could go on and on about the team, but I’m ending this for now.

Looking forward to next season, and remember whatever you decide to do for the next few years — college or whatever — always remember Dec. 12, 2009.

“Go, Buckeyes!”

Sharon Harper, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Mrs. Ann Morris makes statements in her response to my letter that I certainly agree with. #1-It is great that I "was not calling the plays." That is a major point in my letter. Coach Traylor made two terrific calls that I believe turned the game around. #2-The Buckeyes play with a lot of "heart," another major point in my letter that I chose to describe with different terminology.

Though Mrs. Morris didn't like my letter, I certainly respect her opinion and I wish her a Merry Christmas.

Donnie Plant, Pritchett

Email Donnie Plant

Dear Editor:

In your Dec. 9 Gilmer Mirror Buckeye football supplement on page 4B, you printed a letter from Donnie Plant containing several very vulgar and inappropriate terms.

The terminology was disrespectful and offensive to us and I would assume to the majority of your readers.

As long-time subscribers, we were shocked by your lack of editorial courage, responsibility and indeed common decency in printing this letter.

Tom and Gladys Bender, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Having just read Mr. Plant’s letter in the Wednesday issue of The Gilmer Mirror, I am very disappointed in your paper for publishing his letter.

It was both offensive and in bad taste.

I have been a subscriber to your paper for over 50 years and look forward to reading it every week; however, I believe that you went over the line with this letter which was inappropriate.

I agree that the Buckeyes exhibit manly qualities, but these young men play with their hearts more than any other part of their anatomy.

They play to win and show pride for Gilmer.

I know that we are blessed to live in a country where we have freedom of speech and freedom of the press, but we also live in a country that exercises discretion.

I am happy though, that Mr. Plant was not calling the plays on the field.

Ann Morris, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

James Eitel’s letter to the editor was typical of the Democratic Party’s requirement to follow the party’s line, no matter where it leads.

As a former active member of the Democratic Party, I can assure you the party has left its old agenda of helping the people to that of putting the party first over the needs and desires of the country.

A majority of the people are against the cap and trade, bailouts, government health care, and tax and spend policies of this administration.

With a 29 percent approval rating, this Congress is telling us to sit down and shut up. What we want is irrelevant. It’s the party that knows best.

What the Upshur County officials did showed leadership. It has been said that a true leader determines what the people want, then gets out in front and leads.

I believe this is the case with these leaders. They are not deserters.

Those Democrats that do not leave the party are like lemmings, they will follow the party off the cliff because they can’t think for themselves.

Frank Howell, Diana

Dear Editor and City of Gilmer:

Four months ago we had nevereven heard of you!!

We moved to Gilmer, TX in August 2009 having returned from living most of the past 18 years overseas serving as missionaries. We needed a place to spend the next two years on furlough with our high school age daughter. Would you believe that a few very well-meaning people (not from Gilmer) even kindly suggested that we search outside the Gilmer school district for another schooling option for our daughter??

Well, our daughter not only joined the band but she also signed up for freshman athletics at GHS. On the first day of school she came home talking about a routine they were doing in athletics called "The Buckeye Maker." I had no idea what she was talking about or what it meant. Now, four months later, I DO!!

You are amazing, not just theGilmer Buckeye football team, but all of you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for showing us each week what community pride and spirit is all about. Thank you Gilmer football and other sport teams and the BAND for showing us what hard work and discipline and strength of character looks like on and off the field. And even though our hearts yearn to be back in our "home" overseas, thank you for helping us to feel like living in America is going to be OK after all, that there is some good and kindness and humanity left in this world, and that you can find it in Gilmer, TX!!

With pride and a much deeperunderstanding now of what it means and what it takes, I am honored to say: Go Buckeyes!!

Respectfully, Jenny Hansen, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

A faction of the current leadership in the Upshur County Republican Party appears to have drifted away from the core beliefs of the GOP.

I believe a quick read of the Upshur County Republican Party platform makes clear that those who are party to this document are promoting policies and ideas that may not be consistent with platform of either the Texas or National GOP.

Ref: www.upshurgop.org/documents/RPUC-Platform.doc.

Ken Ambrose, President

Republican Club Upshur County, www.rcup.org

Dear Editor:

Yikes! Jim Eitel needs to lighten up! After his tirade against the five elected party switchers in his letter to you on Dec. 9, you would think this group was guilty of murder, arson or worse. All they did was make a logical decision to align with a political party that more reflects their own philosophy and sentiment. Party affiliation at the county level doesn’t have near the importance or impact that it does on the state or national level. Sometimes in the case of offices like constable or sheriff it’s even silly. In a county that went 75 percent for McCain in the last election, one really can’t blame them for being aware of how the political winds are blowing.

Curiously, Jim cites the Democratic positions on Social Security (unsustainable and going broke fast), Medicare (another big government boondoggle), and national health care (socialism at its proven worse) — things Democrats have always stood for — as good things that are beyond criticism or reproach. The Democratic party’s excessive tilt to the far left on other issues as exemplified by the current administration is the main reason people are fleeing. The room in that party for “conservative Democrats” is long over. In the case of the five party switchers, the Democratic party has indeed left them over the past few years.

Folks change their minds all the time. Some switch churches they attend, products they buy, and sometimes even positions on political beliefs they hold. I know the five office holders to be honorable people and generally good public servants. With the face of the national Democratic Party being the sour images of Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, and now locally, with his vitriolic letter, Jim Eitel – it’s no wonder people are leaving it.

Vance Lowry, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I have seen the pictures and stories about the Upshur County Democratic office holders that have decided to become Republicans. Several of them said they have been Republicans all along (which we suspected), but ran as Democrats in order to be elected or reelected. This does not speak well for those office holders that came to our party seeking office, lied about their party affiliation, and then deserted.

I’m an old soldier and have no use for deserters. They have been called line crossers or turncoats down through the years, but the legal term is deserter. After shunning their unit and country, they seek favor from the opposition and transfer their loyalty to the other military unit or country. Some come crawling back, but others never return. They aren’t loyal to anyone.

Maybe “deserter” is too strong a term for political deserters. A kinder description is CHAMELEON. A chameleon is a lizard with a highly-developed ability to change colors when facing stress, danger, or changes in light conditions. Chameleons have long sticky tongues and flick them around a lot to catch bugs, flies or mosquitoes, etc. They are large lizards and can be as long as 20”. Our departing office holders sure do appear to be colorful and quick tongued like the chameleons, and can change colors as quickly.

The Upshur Country chameleons claim that their party left them. We are still here and still support the things that Democrats have always stood for: Social Security, Medicare and now a national health insurance. The desertion was by them, not the Democratic Party.

I want to caution the Republicans that these chameleons cannot be trusted and should not be entrusted with public office. They lied to us when they claimed to be Democrats, and then displayed absolutely no loyalty when the going seemed tough. They will use you for assistance in getting elected, and then turn on you when they when a better offer comes. Beware of what you are getting.

James Eitel, Upshur Democrat

Dear Editor:

I am so proud of our town. There is a sign on 271 that is a wonderful thing to earn, State Champs 2004. The weeds are so tall you can’t see it good. I wish someone, or a group, would clean around the sign.

Joan Goolsby, Gilmer

Dear Gilmer football team, coaches and fans,

As heartbreaking as this is to say, I want to congratulate you on your outstanding win Saturday night against the Cuero Gobblers.

I also want to wish you the best of luck in your game against Abilene Wylie for the state championship.

I must also comment on the outstanding sportsmanship exhibited by your players, coaches and fans.

With two strong teams and so much at stake, often the emotions get out of control.

It did not go unnoticed that the boys on the field kept their aggressions to the plays in process while offering helping hands up and pats on the back to their opponents.

As a result the game remained a true contest of sport that both teams should be proud of.

Gilmer can be proud not only of your team’s success, but also of how the boys, coaches and fans represent their school and town.

Go Buckeyes!

Gina Zavesky, Cuero

Dear Editor:

GONADinal fortitude!! SCROTUMosity!! TESTICULAR courage!!

It’s all the same. It is the only way to explain it.

Here’s the situation: The Buckeyes had made three costly turnovers. They were behind 20-7.

It is still in the first half, and the Buckeyes have the ball facing fourth down with several yards to go to make a first down.

I told my Dad, “They need to punt…they need to punt…they need to punt.”

Just think about it…if the Buckeyes fail, then the Gobblers get the ball in our territory and possibly drive for a touchdown to make it 27-7.

The Buckeyes lined up to go for it on fourth and long. I hollered: “No, no, no!” (as if Jeff Traylor could hear me).

And then Daniel McLaren made the fourth down catch that caused a shift in the momentum in the game.

The Buckeyes then drove down the field to score, making the score 20-14.

Then, I hollered for Adan Olivares to kick the ball deep.

Well, Traylor called for an onsides kick. Paul Chestnut recovered the ball…the Buckeyes made the drive…and they scored again (now the Buckeyes are ahead 21-20).

Yes, the two teams swapped scores for the remainder of the game, but those two plays (the fourth down pass and the onsides kick) were the two plays that I believe helped get the Buckeyes back in the game.

Other notable highlights: Darian Godfrey showed that he was on a mission; Ben Griffith caught a key third down pass; Chestnut rocked the receiver, knocking the ball loose; and the final defensive stand by the Buckeyes when the Gobblers had the ball down on our 5- yard line.

Yep. That’s what it is—GONADinal fortitude! SCROTUMosity! TESTICULAR courage! It just goes to show that these guys have steel ones.

Donnie Plant, Pritchett

Dear Editor:

Community Support for Veterans Day Program:

In Saturday’s Mirror, a reader complained that Gilmer did not honor its veterans on Veterans Day.

I wanted to point out to the writer that indeed Gilmer and Upshur County gave a hearty show of gratitude to its members of the armed forces and their families.

Gilmer ranks at the top of the list when it comes to recognition of its veterans. Flight of the Phoenix Aviation Museum Veterans Day Air Show is one of East Texas’ favorite fall events. It is a unique event because of its universal appeal to all ages. The Airshow and Veterans Program blended Patriotism, American History, Community Spirit and the Sheer Excitement of Flight, all in one great venue at Fox Stephens Field/Gilmer Municipal Airport.

To begin with, The Gilmer Mirror published news articles announcing the program for a full month with four front page feature articles and four general interest articles. The Longview News-Journal had two feature articles, as did the Tyler Paper. KLTV Channel 7 crews visited Gilmer, along with the news reporters from Gilmer, Longview and Tyler in the weeks before the program. News articles and news broadcasts were abundant. The internet was awash with notices and announcements concerning the program. I am surprised that a reader astute enough to write a Letter to the Editor could have missed all the press heralding Gilmer’s Veterans Tribute.

For 2009, our theme was “HONOR THE FLAG,” a tribute to the veterans of our armed forces with special recognition to Vietnam War veterans. We gave special honors to Phil Maywald, who was recommended for the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat in Vietnam. The air show featured USAF jet fly-bys, vintage warbird fly-bys, classic aircraft barnstorming, historical museum stories and WW II vintage aircraft on static display. There was a lot to learn, and much to see. Today’s military is relying more and more on unmanned aerial vehicles, not just for recon but for tactical air strikes. The Texas Heat Wave Flying Team gave a full-hour demonstration of unmanned radio-controlled flight.

First on board to honor the veterans was the City of Gilmer and Mayor Buck Cross. A veteran himself, Mayor Cross hosted a reception and coffee for veterans and their families at the Airport Terminal Building at from 10 a.m. until noon on Nov. 7. Also involved in the Veterans tribute were the Gilmer High School Band, the Gilmer Air Force Junior ROTC, Gilmer Explorer and Boy Scouts, Gilmer High School Civics Classes and History Classes, ALERT Academy Cadets, Upshur County Veterans Organizations, State Representative Bryan Hughes, Congressman Louie Gohmert, Piney Woods chapter of the Military Vehicle Organization, East Texas Classic Packard Automobile Club, the EAA Chapter 972, the Commemorative Air Force Lone Star Wing, the USAF flight crews and ground crews from Barksdale AFB, the Civil Air Patrol, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, City of Gilmer Fire and Police Departments, Upshur County Probation Department, Gilmer Area Chamber of Commerce, Upshur County Arts Council, Historic Upshur Museum, individual volunteers, others whom I have probably omitted, and many of the businesses in town.

When the convoy of restored military vehicles departed the ETMC parking lot and paraded to the airport; when the classic automobiles made their grand entry, when the Mayor welcomed the veterans and families, when the parachute jumpers flew Old Glory from the skies as the Buckeye Band played the National Anthem, when retired Navy Chief Huey Jones gave the invocation, when the VFW honored the veterans, when ROTC cadets performed their flag ceremony, when military jets flew overhead, when warbirds from prior conflicts performed, when historical military displays were provided, and when it was ALL FREE OF CHARGE, and thousands participated, I was really proud of our community and I want to thank everyone for participating.

Next year our Veterans Day tribute will be on Saturday Nov. 6…..so don’t miss it!

Steve Dean, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I was born on Chicago’s South Side, a stone’s throw from the stock yards; a melting-pot neighborhood.

A neighborhood that did not have the word “poverty” in its vernacular.

I grew up in a cold-water, walk-up flat. Now they are called apartments.

The building was quite typical for this type of neighborhood; a 4- or 5-story wooden frame building, with four flats opening onto a common hallway/stairwell on each floor.

Our flat didn’t have a front door (it had been missing for longer than any of the residents could recall).

The doorway into the hallway was closed off with a patchwork quilt nailed to the upper edge of the door frame and extended a foot or so beyond both sides to ensure some privacy.

The quilt was replete with the odors of previous years — the sage dressing of last Christmas, the toast that burnt on the stove-top toaster several months pervious, the candles in the scorched pumpkin last Halloween and the odor of the kerosene heater almost extinguished when the bath water heated on it spilled down into the burner.

Baths were on Saturday evening in a large galvanized wash tub that always hung, when not in use, from a nail on the back porch wall.

And oh, to this day, I can close my eyes and vividly recall the feelings of the frigid linoleum-covered floor beneath my feet when I was the first out of bed on those coldest of cold winter mornings, and the sensations of the first semblance of heat radiating from the recently lighted heater, now glowing behind the isinglass view port.

This Thanksgiving, as in all of the years since my early childhood, I will pause to thank God, the great architect of the universe, for the abundance of blessings I have had in my time — freedom, opportunity, career, a secure home, a loving wife and family with children and grandchildren, friends and loved ones

But this year more than any other year, I feel an overwhelming gratitude and appreciation that I am at a loss to adequately express . . .

Thank God I didn’t have a federal program to lock me into where I was!

Bob Worn, Pritchett

Dear Editor:

As Veterans Day fast approaches, I’m praying for the men and women at Ft. Hood, and all who have served our great and mighty nation, past and present.

God bless them all!

I, myself, never wore a uniform, but I served.

Oh, yes!

My husband gave 20 years to the Navy, before retiring.

I waited at home and raised our family.

Our son gave 20 years to the Air Force.

I have pictures all over my walls to remind me of my brave family.

My father and mother — WWII; and five brothers in the Army.

I never heard any of them complain about doing “their duty,” as they all said.

They never uttered a bad or disgraceful word about our country.

We were taught old school — God and Country.

And, if you can’t say something nice about someone don’t say anything at all.

Maybe my Mother should have told Mr. Obama that about our country.

I’d hate to think of where my children and I would be without my military family and all the brave souls that have served this Great - Great Nation. Thank you!

God Bless America!

Judith Brinkley, Big Sandy

Dear Editor:

While we slept, Congress looted our Social Security.

High Social Security payroll taxes have contributed to yearly Social Security Trust Fund surpluses until the proclaimed surplus is now in excess of $2,420 billion ($2.42 trillion).

However, Congress has elected to sacrifice Social Security on the alter of corruption by spending the entire surplus requiring the U.S. Treasury to cover the embezzlement by issuing non-negotiable IOU bonds to the Trust Fund. Such economically irresponsible and morally reprehensible behavior by the politicians demonstrates total disrespect for working people.

Congress must now determine how to legally fund the IOU bonds when they mature. The choices are increase taxes, sell legitimate T-bonds or monetize the debt.

It is doubtful China will buy additional T-bonds so Congress will select the easy way out and ask the Federal Reserve to create money out of thin air. Of course, debasing the currency means that the dollar becomes a peso and your Social Security check will only buy some coffee beans or at best, a bowl of java.

After a long string of yearly Social Security program surpluses, the program will soon start showing a deficit thus our gold hoard in Fort Knox should be distributed to future Social Security recipients. Congress will scream out a refusal claiming that is will doom Social Security. What really frightens them is that we will gain control of both our Social Security program and the gold in Fort Knox. Then let the politicians destroy the dollar!

In the future when the Social Security eagle takes off on its monthly mission what would you rather receive in your hand; a gold coin, a worthless Federal Reserve note or an IOU? The choice is yours.

Robert A. Dahlquist, Orange, Calif.

Dear Editor:

I wanted to take another opportunity to share with the Gilmer community how proud I am of our young people.

On Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, three young men who play football for Gilmer High School came to First Baptist Church to help set up the Fellowship Hall/Gymnasium which served as the overflow seating for Matt Camp’s Celebration Service.

In the midst of a major lighting project, a music project, and preparations being made in the sanctuary, the First Baptist Church staff was spread out pretty thin.

These humble young men removed with care the tables from the Fellowship Hall and replaced them with the 400 plus chairs that were needed for the 2 p.m. funeral.

The sense of “family” and self sacrifice is so very evident in the young people of this little East Texas town.

They could have been sitting on the couch playing video games, outside enjoying the great weather, or simply nursing the bumps and bruises from the ballgame the night before. Rather these young people answered the call for help and responded to the need. The conduct of these ball players strengthened my respect for them and the generation of young people that they represent.

Over 1,000 people attended Matt Camp’s Celebration Service.

Those who knew Matt and the ethics, values, and Christ-like example he was to this community can be proud to know that the same traits that Matt modeled are living on in the lives of the young people in Gilmer, Texas.

I want to once again convey my appreciation to the families, teachers, coaches, and mentors who are actively working with these young men.

“Three young men served others” should be the kind of headline that makes the front page of the paper. I’m confident that our young people will continue to be a catalyst of servanthood in Gilmer and beyond.

Tim Wuester, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

A special thanks to Chief Grunden and the Gilmer Police Dept., to Sheriff Betterton and his deputies, and to GISD Supt. Rick Albritton and the employees of Gilmer schools for working together to get Shawn Michael Willard arrested for criminal trespass at the Gilmer schools last week.

Again, thanks for a good job well done.

Mayor Buck Cross, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I just wanted to take time to brag on your local hospital and some of your fine citizens in Gilmer. This past Saturday, my two young sons and I were coming through Gilmer on our way to Longview.

We stopped at your McDonald's to use the restroom. While walking in the restroom I was carrying my two year old son Heston. The bathroom was full and while standing in the doorway, Heston got his finger smashed in the bathroom door. The finger began to bleed profusely.

After further examination the tip of his finger was almost torn completely off. Being an hour away from home and being alone with my two boys I was unsure of what to do. I knew that I could not drive to the hospital alone because I could not take pressure from the finger.

A woman, I didn't even catch her name and her father came to our rescue. The woman was hosting her daughter's birthday party. She dropped everything and rushed us to the ER in her brand new car. The car still had dealer tags. With the way Heston was bleeding I was so afraid to get in and get blood on something.

The nice woman insisted that it was fine. She helped my five year old Landon into the car and also in at the hospital. And I have been to many emergency rooms over the years and I have never seen an ER with assistance like that at Gilmer ETMC.

As soon as we walked in the door, we were met by a nurse. The staff was quick to analyze our situation and act upon it. Heston's finger got stitches, lost his fingernail and was X-rayed within 30 minutes and we were out of the ER within an hour.

I have NEVER seen service so fast or such a caring staff. The admissions clerk occupied Landon while Heston got stitches. A family member came from Longview to drive us back to our car.

The family that helped us earlier was still at McDonalds and met us at the car wondering how Heston was and I was lucky enough to thank them in person. The McDonalds manager even gave the boys both toys for their tough afternoon.

I hate that Heston had to go through that but I am truly grateful that it happened in Gilmer. I was so afraid he was going to lose the end of his finger. My family and I feel truly blessed by the hospital and the citizens in your community. Thank you for your kindness and unselfishness.

Dana, Landon and Heston Gilbreath, Saltillo

Dear Editor:

Does it still hold true that horses are no longer allowed in the Yam Parade?

Even the Rose Bowl has horses.

This is a rural town. Please rethink this decision.

I am wondering how many people feel as I do?

Mrs. Darlene (Dennis) Gibson

Dear Editor:

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association strongly supports the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act (HR 2057) and urges Congress to pass the legislation on behalf of its more than 20,000 members.

As a national trade association representing independent automobile dealers, we share the belief that specialized equipment, information and materials should be available to all repair facilities who wish to pursue service and repair opportunities, and should not be restricted to just those who are affiliated with a manufacturer. Right to Repair ensures that our members’ customers can have their vehicles serviced at the repair shop of their choice.

Because vehicles are increasingly monitored or controlled by computers, ready access to complete and accurate information, tools and software from the car companies is necessary to keep vehicles in safe working condition. The Right to Repair Act protects the motoring public by making it illegal for manufacturers to withhold information necessary to diagnose, service or repair vehicles.

We encourage our members and all motorists to visit www.righttorepair.org to send a letter to each of their congressional representatives, urging them to support the Right to Repair Act.

Michael R. Linn, Arlington

CEO, National Independent Automobile Dealers Association

Dear Editor:

I was recently asked to join a grief support group and I couldn’t help but wonder how many support groups are out there and how effective are they? As Leader of the East Texas Multiple Myeloma Support Group, I am always trying to better our group. The invitation to the grief group came about because I lost my husband to Myeloma in April. I declined the invitation because as a group leader I understand the importance of being in a good group and think that I can do better for our members and myself by devoting my time to the Multiple Myeloma Community in East Texas.

Multiple Myeloma is a cancer that affects the bone marrow. More specifically, it is an uncontrolled growth of plasma cells. Although there is no known cure, there are many approaches to help Myeloma patients live better and longer. The course of treatment is very much dependent on the patient’s physical, emotional and family situations. Since my husband and I started the group in 2006, we have seen the emergence of new drugs and treatments for Myeloma, along with FDA approval of several Novel therapies. Even now, there are more drugs in trials with very promising results.

Unlike other cancers, which have maybe one or two courses of treatment, Myeloma has several. What works well on one patient may not be right for the next patient because of the different types of Myeloma. Our group makes information available to the patient and helps them to understand that this is not a journey they have to take alone.

We are proud to announce the third annual East Texas Regional Community Workshop on Oct. 3 at the Holiday Inn Express at 300 Tuttle Circle in Longview.

Transplant Information, Novel Therapies, Side Effects Management and Supportive Care Issues for Multiple Myeloma are ALL on the agenda along with four scientists and clinicians from the new drug company, Protioloex, Inc. to talk about a promising new drug in clinical trials at this time. Please call Donna LaRocque to register for this free workshop at 903-845-6711.

Donna LaRocque, ETMMSG

Dear Editor:

“You can’t make a weak man strong by making a strong man weak and you can’t make a poor man rich by making a rich man poor,” these words are those of Abraham Lincoln.

He was referring to economic distribution. That is socialism!

America and Russia were in confrontation during the long period of the Cold War, which involved capitalism versus socialism. No governmental system is perfect, but capitalism is far superior to socialism.

To overtax businesses and manufacturers will force more of them to go out of business. The results will be more of their former employees joining the increasing ranks of the unemployed.

Our health system is far superior to any other in the world. This is especially true of any socialistic health system. Many who live in such a healthcare system come to America for medical care rather than to wait indefinitely for needed surgery in their own country. To attempt to correct any shortcomings in our present system by converting to a socialistic medical system would be like throwing out the baby with the bath water.

The United States continues to be the greatest nation in the world. It has continually assisted nations throughout the world in both needed supplies and monetarily, more than any other country.

This will no longer be possible, if our nation goes further in debt.

Instead, we, as a nation, will be compelled to borrow money from such countries as China to stay afloat financially. We are now in danger of becoming a second- or third-rate nation by turning from capitalism to socialism.

Dub Mowery, Big Sandy

Dear Editor:

In the August 22 edition of The Gilmer Mirror, there was an editorial by Donald Kaul titled, "Conservatives are not a useful lot."

I would like to take issue with Mr. Kaul, not only on the title of the article, but its content. I am a conservative, who votes for Democrats and Republicans.

I am proud that our former president was able to secure the release of two Americans in North Korea; I am happy to see the ever-so-slight upturn in our economics; but I resent Mr. Kaul's malignment of all people who share my conservative principles. This mean-spirited, hate-filled column did not deserve the space it was given in our local newspaper.

Gail Weir

Dear Editor:

I was reading letters to the editor and found a few folks that had the same problem I have where I live.

I live outside the city limits and have a child like these folks I read about. I too was concerned about people speeding down the road I live on (it is an oil top road), and my family is not the only family on this road with children.

So some time back seeing the hazard of this problem, I asked law enforcement for help, I was told I didn’t live in town and the speed limit in front of my home is and will stay 55 mph.

Now I wasn’t born yesterday and I bet his speed limit in front of his house ain’t 55 mph, what if I had the same lack of respect for him and his family/children, would he still think speeding in front of his home is o.k.?

Don’t worry I don’t care to lower my standards to yours, just be careful and think of how you would want others to treat your family and children. It helps if you ever want respect in return.

Robert Lucas

Dear Editor:

Hope4heroes.org is formally asking for Congress to review the VA medical handbook on end of life options. It’s the position of our organization that veterans at any stage of disability or illness should not be asked or placed in the uncomfortable position of feeling they have nothing to contribute.

Further we are asking that the record be set straight via the Congressional Veterans Affairs Committee and they seek a full accounting of the facts to ensure veterans this book is no longer being used.

We will add this to our national agenda. It’s a must for the VA and veterans that we get the facts out there today about this book and its use.

Hope4heroes.org works with over 1.2 million supporters and is now partnering with the private sector to ensure the very best for our Heroes and their families. Hope4Heroes was founded by Veterans to support Veterans and families in the following program areas: Awareness Events in local communities,support chapters and volunteers nationwide, emergency aid to families in crisis, Scholarships for the children of heroes, education for veterans and families, and partner relationships outreach with sister agencies to bring a full complement of resources to the table at all times.

Vic Luebker, San Antonio

Chairman, Hope4heroes.org

Dear Editor:

I am new to Gilmer and I have been driving around for a couple of months, noticing that some of the poles and corners are littered with signs that have been up for weeks after the sales have ended.

I have a suggestion for a change:

The city would benefit having individuals make application for garage/yard sales, allowing a partial refund to the individual after they have removed their signs. The city poles and side yards wouldn't be postered up with old faded paper from a sale that is no more. I for one get irritated arriving to where they say a sale is and find out that it was last week, or the week before.

Just from observation while here in Gilmer.

Jeanie Short, Gilmer Newcomer

Dear Editor:

Although he swore to uphold the Constitution, Barac’s Insane Obama-nomics seems to be designed to destroy free enterprise and ignore our rights granted to us by the Constitution.

What right has he to ask us to remain silent at town hall meetings?

Continue to speak up America!

Jerry M. Laden, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

I wanted to make all Gilmer Buckeye fans aware of something I witnessed at Wal-Mart on Saturday afternoon, August 8th, that both disappointed me and shocked me.

I was shopping at the store when I noticed some of our fine Gilmer Buckeye players walking through the store with Buckeye cards in their hands. They were NOT SOLICITING ANYONE, but a number of people, myself included, asked them to purchase one.

Shortly after getting my card, a store employee stopped one of the players and asked him what they were doing. He informed them they had Buckeye cards. This man then got on his walkie talkie and asked if the players could sell the cards in the store, and was told they could NOT. He then asked the players to leave the store, and other store employees began going around the store looking for players as well.

The Gilmer Buckeyes have done MORE to put Gilmer on the map than Wal-Mart has EVER done. To refuse to allow the players to sell Buckeye cards in the store is totally inexcusable as far as I'm concerned, and I'd like to encourage ALL GILMER BUCKEYE FANS to notify the management of Wal-Mart how you feel about this ridiculous incident.

Like most of you, I spend a LOT of money regularly at Wal-Mart in Gilmer, but UNLESS the store issues a FORMAL APOLOGY to Coach Jeff Traylor and the Buckeyes, and makes a SIZEABLE DONATION to the Buckeye Athletic Booster Club, I will never spend another cent at our local Wal-Mart.

Elwyn Henderson, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

As new car dealerships ramp up advertising to attract motorists to the showroom using “Cash for Clunkers” as an incentive, we anticipate a consumer backlash once reality replaces the hype and car owners realize that “Cash for Clunkers” is nothing more than a clever slogan for a program to spend $1 billion of our tax dollars to fund a government subsidized vehicle trade-in to help new car dealers sell cars. Consumers will soon learn that they are simply trading in their vehicle and will still have to jump through all of the hoops to qualify for and purchase a new vehicle.

The much-heralded fuel efficiency and environmental benefits of purchasing a new vehicle could easily be achieved through better maintenance of an existing vehicle or trading up to a newer used vehicle. Any savings from improved miles per gallon will be lost from the costs involved in destroying and disposing of the “clunkers.” We continue to strongly oppose “Cash for Clunkers” because it prematurely destroys vehicles with many more years of useful life, denying consumers more affordable used vehicle options.

Kathleen Schmatz, Bethesda, Md.

President & CEO, Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association

Dear Editor:

For many years, thousands of scientists and other technical people have stated that humans do not cause global warming. Nature does.

The official record of temperatures in the USA comes from a network of 1,221 climate-monitoring stations overseen by the National Weather Service.

Anthony Watts, a 25-year broadcast meteorology veteran, recruited a team of more than 650 volunteers to visually inspect and photograph more than 860 of these stations. They were shocked to find that 89% of the stations failed to meet the requirement that stations must be 100 feet or more away from artificial heating, radiating and reflecting heat sources.

Even worse, they found major gaps in the data record that were filled in with data from nearby sites. Their conclusion was that the U.S. temperature record is unreliable and should not be used to promote unsubstantiated global warming theories.

Much more information is available at www.surfacestations.org.

Richard and Gloria Hampton

Sylmar, Calif.

Dear Editor:

To the people of Gilmer — Lift your heads, push back your shoulders, and stand a little taller today.

There are people among you, employed by Kinsman Circle of Care and Gilmer Care Center, who should make you very proud indeed.

The hideous, unrelenting, disease we know as Alzheimer’s took our husband/father’s life on the afternoon of July 10.

We stand in awe of the love and service shown to him and the entire family by the afore-mentioned individuals.

My first thought was that they went far above and beyond the call of duty, but maybe that is exactly the duty to which we are all called: To help relieve suffering, in any large or small way, whenever it is within our power to do so.

Thank you Mary, Lane, Linda, Gina, Linda N., Wayne and several others whose names I don’t recall, who worked so tirelessly and those employees who simply dropped in to pay their respects during his final hours.

It is obvious to me that God continues to work through His people.

Steve Reno and the family of Edgar Reno, Perryville

Dear Editor:

Despite a consumer boycott, the number-two soft drink manufacturer in the U.S. continues to be out front about its support of the homosexual agenda, ignoring the concerns of pro-family groups who have asked the company to remain neutral in the culture war.

PepsiCo agreed to sponsor the 2009 New York City LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) Pride Parade on June 27.

Apparently the company wants to make its support of the pro-homosexual agenda — including same-sex marriage — as high profile as possible. People seem intent on irritating as many pro-family folks as possible.

That in-your-face approach was evident after PepsiCo ran a full-page ad in the June/July issue of Out, a semi-pornographic homosexual magazine. The magazine is filled with page after page of nude and semi-nude photographs of men in suggestive positions.

The company has also become a member of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). The NGLCC is an organization that promotes same-sex marriage, and lobbies in Washington, D.C., for passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and hate crimes legislation. Those measures concern many Christians because of the potential threat to religious liberties if the bills are passed and signed into law.

Pepsi’s support of the gay agenda has been ongoing. The company requires its employees to attend diversity training classes promoting the acceptance of homosexuality; has used some of its TV commercials to promote the homosexual lifestyle; has sponsored other “gay pride parades” in cities across America; and gave a total of $1 million to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) — two organizations that have lobbied tirelessly for the legalization of homosexual marriage in California.

Because PepsiCo has stubbornly refused to remain neutral on the controversial issue of homosexuality, the American Family Association (AFA) called for a boycott of the company last fall. AFA has set up a Web site with more information on the boycott: www.boycottpepsico.com.

AFA encourages supporters to (1) sign the online Boycott Pepsi Pledge; (2) print from the Web site and distribute the Boycott Pepsi Petition to family, friends, fellow church members and others; (3) join AFA’s Pepsi Boycott cause on Facebook; and (4) contact Pepsi with the reasons for participating in the boycott—always remembering to be polite.

Pepsi’s products include Pepsi soft drinks, Frito-Lay chips and snacks (800-352-4477), Quaker Oats (800-367-6287), Tropicana (800-237-7799) and Gatorade (800-884-2867).

Pepsi contact information: Ms. Indra K. Nooyi, Chairman; PepsiCo, Inc.; 700 Anderson Hill Rd.; Purchase, NY 10577-1444; Phone: 914-253-2000 or 800-433-2652

Tim Wildmon, President

American Family Association, Tupelo, Miss.

Dear Editor:

Much has transpired since the devastating news to working Americans that one of our greatest American companies, General Motors, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Although the bankruptcy will lead to tens of thousands of lost jobs, there seems to be a greater national awareness of the importance of American manufacturing.

As Chair of the Mayors and Municipalities Automotive Coalition (MMAC), I led several advocacy trips to Washington, D.C., including a teach-in last month at the U.S. Capitol. MMAC pushed for the formation of a multi-agency Federal task force to coordinate efforts to help auto-dependent communities rebuild. I’m pleased to announce that on June 23, President Obama signed an executive order creating a new White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers. The council will recommend changes in law or federal policy that could help these key communities recover more swiftly. In addition, it will help facilitate worker retraining, retooling of factories and environmental redevelopment. I applaud the President for establishing this new panel, which demonstrates his commitment to the cities and states hardest hit by the current economic crisis and decades of free trade instead of fair trade.

Even with this important new federal Council, the domestic auto industry and our nation’s manufacturing base remain in jeopardy. At the root of our historic economic problems is unrestrained free trade, which creates an uneven economic playing field. The unholy alliance of Washington and Wall Street has given us a multinational corporate agenda for the past 30 years. This Wall Street agenda has outsourced our future, exporting production and pollution, exploiting land and workers, while selling out the American Dream to the highest bidder. We need a Main Street Agenda for every hard-working family in America.

In addition to federal assistance and jobs creation, we also need to address the biggest trade problem we face, namely our unbalanced trade relationship with China. In 2000, China was granted permanent Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) status. Permanent MFN for China has cost the U.S. the best leverage we have to influence China to enact worker rights and other policies that would help equalize our trade imbalance.

On June 23, the U.S. Government filed a complaint against China with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over unfair trade practices. As U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk said, “We went to the WTO today to enforce our rights, so we can provide American manufacturers with a fair competitive environment and put more American workers back on the job.” He also explained China is restricting their exports to benefit domestic industries, despite strong WTO rules against this practice.

Although this is encouraging news, I believe we need an Apollo-style commitment to reinvest in America and to protect our workers from unfair trade practices from China and elsewhere. I urge you to write your elected officials in Congress to make your voice heard on these issues.

We’ve tried nation-building overseas within our foreign policy. It’s time for a new domestic policy that supports nation-building right here, from the ground up, in the United States of America.

My friends, the economic challenges we face are beyond party lines and political differences. We have to stand together — Democrats, Republicans and Independents — with a common goal for a better America.

Virg Bernero, Mayor, Lansing, Mich.

Dear Editor:

I believe that the commissioners’ decision to purchase new cars for the constables was a great step towards strengthening the constables’ offices in this county.

All constables’ offices are now held by experienced officers who all have years of prior law enforcement behind them, and are willing to use this experience to assist the other agencies within the county.

In the past, Sheriff Betterton has sifted through the best of the worst of his department’s downed patrol units and given them to us to drive.

This has been greatly appreciated, but the problem is that these vehicles were taken out of service by the Sheriff’s Office due to high mileage and costly maintained and it carries over to the constables’ offices.

I believe that the commissioners saw the problem and the high cost of operating these vehicles and took the appropriate actions to taken care of this problem.

The cars will help us to better serve the citizens of Upshur County by being able to be more involved in the law enforcement aspect of our jobs and bring in more revenue to the county by being able to go out and collect from or take into custody wanted persons, on an overwhelming number of active, outstanding warrants from each JP’s office.

I would like to thank Sheriff Betterton, and Judge Dean Fowler for working so diligently to research and locate the cars, and to the Commissioners Ferguson, and Campbell who saw the need for a long term solution to a very frustrating and costly problem.

Jason Weeks, Pct. 2 Constable, Upshur County

Dear Editor:

Although saddened by the news of her death, I rejoice that Mrs. Violet Owens Moody’s love and friendship was a special gift from God to me.

September, 1941, my first day at the New Diana School, it was a day I will always remember. This was the day I first met Miss Violet Owens, my first grade teacher.

Her classroom was on the southwest corner of the school. I can remember being so excited as I entered the room. She must have had 43 “pupils” made up of the first and second grades.

From day one, she was in control, and quickly earned our respect and very soon, our love.

She was not bashful about using a ruler to discipline, if needed.

Each day started with “health check.” On each of our desks, Miss Violet expected to see a comb, a handkerchief and a fingernail file.

Our hands were placed flat on the desk so she could check for dirty fingernails.

We even had to show her our teeth and there was definitely no gum chewing.

I remember seeing her standing in front of the big blackboard pointing to the ABCs across the top as she patiently taught us to read and then to print.

We had to do pages of “ovals and push pulls” when learning to do cursive writing.

We had no air conditioning, not even an electric fan.

She would pull down the long tan shades to keep out the rays of the hot afternoon sun.

In the winter, we were kept warm with the heat from the huge wood-burning stove in the back corner of the room.

Along with her teaching duties, Miss Violet was continually putting wood in the stove to keep the fire going.

On the inside of the top of the metal cover around the stove was a trough, into which she poured water. This was my first experience with a room air humidifier.

We all brought our lunch, as there was no lunchroom, and we were allowed and encouraged to have a blessing, thanking God for our food.

Miss Violet soon learned that there were children who had no lunches. In her compassionate and caring way, for the children, she brought homemade jelly, syrup and homemade biscuits, which she heated on the old wood stove.

She saw to it that no child had to go hungry.

As the year came to an end, I looked forward to being in the second grade in the fall of 1942 and once again having Miss Violet for my teacher.

During the summer, I received what I considered some very devastating news. Her brother, a member of the famous Owens Brothers Quartet, worked for the County and parked a big piece of equipment in my grandparent’s yard.

He told me that Miss Violet “had gone and got married.” She was now Mrs. Violet Moody.

In my mind, I thought that meant that she would no longer be my second grade teacher and quickly went crying to my mother, who assured me that she could still teach second grade as well as train a husband.

One of my most prized possessions is a little china tea set which she gave me for Christmas one year.

As I think back to those days, I marvel that she could buy each of us a Christmas gift on her meager salary.

It has been 68 years since she became a part of my life. Through the years she has always welcomed me with the same unconditional love each time I stopped by to visit her. I will miss visiting her this Dec. 2, on what would have been her 103rd birthday.

Mrs. Violet Owens Moody was one of my heroes and a very special friend.

Julia Russell Byrd (Judy),

Farmers Branch

New Diana High School Class of 1953

Dear Editor,

Just a reminder that the Ore City AARP will be part of Ore City’s Fun Festival and their fund raiser will benefit groups in our community.

The AARP has made a substantial commitment in the last few years to donate to the Ore City Ministerial Alliance; they provide a $500 scholarship to a local youth who attends college or technical training beyond high school; they provide funds to two fire departments and our police department at Christmas time, and they also do various other contributions to the community.

What is the Fourth of July without hot dogs? Come by the Community Center if you attend the very symbolic flag raising, the presentation of the Queens, and the street dance Friday night and get some raffle tickets and hot dogs.

Come by the next day for a bite to eat, a drink to sip, and a cool place to enjoy both — while you visit with others.

Nell Freedman

AARP President/Committee for Fun Festival, Ore City

Dear Editor:

Thank you and congratulations for your good sense and courage in publishing the article, “Saving Lives by Saving Money” by Alison Weir!

As you probably know, Alison was a small-town newspaper editor (in northern California) when she became curious about coverage of Israel/Palestine in the U.S. media and began research which eventuated in some very surprising statistics which, in turn, prompted her to establish If Americans Knew.

Thank you again for fulfilling your vital role as a member of the decrepit U.S. “fourth estate” and helping your readers to “know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Bob Cable, Somerville, Mass.

(originally from Beresford, S.D., pop. 2,000)

Dear Editor:

Journalist Alison Weir does it again, on why Americans can win peace in Israel/Palestine (“Saving Lives by Saving Money” - June 20). We all like win-win scenarios. She has painted for us that vision, on why our aid to Israel jeopardizes peace.

Please, residents of Gilmer, open the minds of your U.S. legislators on how our support of Israel can be a win-win for us all, and not necessarily with how our current aid gets used there.

Priscilla Rich, Danville, Calif.

Dear Editor:

I want to thank the city of Gladewater for a job well done! On Saturday, June 6, my husband and I rode our horses in the Gladewater Rodeo parade.

The city police escorted all of the horses and riders from the rodeo grounds to the downtown area for the parade and then back to the rodeo grounds.

This personal touch shows that the city of Gladewater really cares for their equine friends, unlike the city of Gilmer. Last year the city of Gilmer banned horses from riding in their Yamboree Queen’s parade.

We plan to return next year to ride in the parade again. Thanks again.

Gail Yarbrough, Longview

Dear Editor:

Last Sunday, June 7, we decided to take our dog and go out to Gilmer Lake for a walk on the new trails.

Evidently, some people do not have any consideration for others, or respect for these beautiful new trails.

The paved Blackberry Trail was so littered with dog droppings that we had to constantly watch where we were stepping. It was that bad.

If dogs have accidents on the paved trails, the owners should pick up after them. Shame on anyone that doesn’t.

We should all be so proud of these trails, and want to keep them clean for everyone to enjoy.

Dorothy Boyd, Gilmer

Dear Editor:

Each month, volunteer pilots from Grace Flight fly patients needing specialized medical care, including chemotherapy and dialysis, to hospitals throughout Texas. Many of these patients are from rural areas and would otherwise be hard-pressed to receive the care they need.

These flights are part of General Aviation (GA), which includes all flying except the scheduled airlines and the military. Right now GA is being imperiled by Congress. If proposed legislation is enacted, the outlook could be grim for patients who use Grace Flight as well as for millions of other people throughout the country who depend on General Aviation for services and jobs.

Among Congress’ proposals are new costs and regulations. Since Grace Flight pilots already donate their time and planes and pay for their own fuel, these increased costs could ground them. The impact on patients who live in rural Texas could be devastating, because they would have to drive long distances to receive care.

The legislation would involve not only medical volunteer organizations. With an estimated 65 percent of General Aviation flights conducted for public service and business, many industries and services would be affected, including agriculture, emergency medical evacuation, law enforcement, aerial fire-fighting, package delivery and the Civil Air Patrol.

In addition, millions of jobs depend on GA, which pumps more than $150 billion into the U.S. economy. Two members of Congress deem GA so essential that they formed a caucus to educate their peers on its value to the American economy and transportation system.

Several weeks ago, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the world’s largest pilot organization with more than 415,000 members, launched General Aviation Serves America. The goal of this national grassroots campaign is to educate policymakers, opinion leaders and the public about the vital role GA plays in our local communities and the nation’s economy. Actor Harrison Ford, an avid pilot, is volunteering his services in support of the campaign. (To learn more about the General Aviation Serves America program, please take a few minutes to visit www.gaservesamerica.com.)

The importance of GA and its impact on the citizens of Texas cannot be overstated. For more than 80 years, General Aviation has played a significant role in the lives of millions of Americans across the country. I hope you will join me in our efforts to ensure that it’s around for another 80 years, and well beyond.

Craig Fuller, Frederick, Md.

President, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association

Dear Editor:

As a sixth generation United States farmer, I fully understand the romance of yesteryear’s food production systems, but a reality check is in order.

As filmmakers Michael Pollan and Robert Kenner are making the circles in the media promoting the release of Food Inc., their message about the modern food production system is nothing but a circle as well. The most glaring example is the mention that food shortages are looming, yet the solution is reverting back to food production methods of the 1930s when one farmer fed 10 people. Today’s American farmer feeds 164 people annually with the safest, most reasonably priced food the world has ever seen. Last year, the American consumer still only spent 10 percent of his/her disposable income on food despite reporting of higher food prices by major media sources.

Today’s food system is safe and it is “green” and efficient. Cornell University just this week released a study indicating that today’s food system emits 63 percent less carbon per unit of food produced than the same unit of food produced in 1954.

Science and technology combined with human initiative has allowed the United States farmer to provide food, fiber, fuel and pharmaceuticals more efficiently than ever before imagined.

With all of that said, I am willing to make a deal. If Kenner and Pollan are willing to show their film in black and white and silent as movies were in the 1930s, I’ll go back to my grandfather’s era of food production.

Trent Loos, Loup City, Neb.

www.FacesOfAg.com

Dear Editor:

In response to the Letter to the Editor published in the May 9, 2009 edition of The Gilmer Mirror, I would like to thank Mr. Studdard for bringing it to the attention of the Yamboree Board the need to update the Yamboree website. Since the time of his letter Jeff Dodd, a volunteer Yamboree Board Director, has worked many hours on updating the site to better provide accurate information about the upcoming Yamboree in a more organized format.

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind Mr. Studdard and other members of the community that the Yamboree Association is entirely a volunteer organization (we share two paid employees with the Gilmer Chamber of Commerce). Almost all of the members of the Board of Directors not only work full-time in their occupations, but also belong to numerous other volunteer organizations, generously providing a great deal of unpaid time and leadership to the community. Through their efforts as well as those of dozens of other volunteers who step up every year and oversee the many Yamboree activities, thousands of dollars are raised—and deposited right back into the community in the form of scholarships ($5,500) and support to other nonprofit community based endeavors. We strive to be good stewards of these funds; to make sure that every dollar we spend is wisely invested in a project that is going to benefit our community and our neighbors.

We are always happy to welcome new volunteers to the organization and, in particular, would like to have a computer-savvy volunteer who would like to take on the responsibility of maintaining our Yamboree website year round. Mr. Studdard states that the future of the Yamboree is in the hands of his generation and I couldn’t agree more. I encourage him and all of the other members of his generation to come forward and volunteer their time so future generations will also be able to enjoy the Yamboree and our community will continue to benefit from their efforts.

Steve Murry, MD, Gilmer

2009 President, East Texas Yamboree Association

Dear Editor:

This is to inform the community of Ore City that Lakeview Baptist Church is not closing the doors.

We have just had to board up our windows due to thieves kicking in the windows and breaking into the church and stealing the pastor’s guitar; food for your family from the pantry; and the air conditioner last year that helped cool you off when you come to worship.

My Sunday School class of first through third graders, not to mention the nur