Disappointed

Dear Editor:

I am a Meigs High School student disappointed about the Meigs Local Enrichment Foundation’s multi-purpose complex proposed levy coming up 393 votes short at the polls.

The questions that keep floating across my mind are ... why? And how can so many people be against such a positive thing? The MLEF and all of their supporters are only working to make a positive difference in our community.

I believe that misconceptions played a huge role in the failure of the levy. Many things were misconstrued by those not wanting to pay any more taxes. Without this levy, humiliation and embarrassment are two things that come to mind — visiting teams sitting on the muddy ground in the pouring rain, flooded locker rooms, backed up sewers, inadequate lighting and restrooms. Who is going to explain to our youth what exactly has happened with not passing the levy and why?

This is not just about a football stadium, a cross country course, track or even a baseball field, it is about having integrity. Integrity is about adherring to moral and ethical principles, soundness of moral character, and honesty. What does integrity mean to you? The MLEF would not only enrich our lives as individuals, but also as a community as a whole. I believe this would have aided in the construction of friendships and everlasting memories.

For those of you that have a positive outlook on this, personally I want to thank you. You realize what it takes to make a community successful.

So I leave you with this. Next time when you have an extra $3 dollars laying around, I want you to think how many lives you could have enriched with only a few dollars a month? It would only have taken a little bit of money and effort from everyone to make this thing a reality. May God be with you.

Austin King

Pomeroy

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National Hospice Month

Dear Editor:

As the holidays approach, many of us will gather with family and friends. More often than not, these gatherings will include reminiscences about loved ones, re-telling of funny family stories, and the sharing of traditions honored year after year.

This emphasis on remembrance, so welcomed during joyful times, also plays an important role in difficult times, especially at the end of life. A hospice memorial service is being held on Sunday, November 15 at 2 p.m. at the Athens Community Church at 219A Columbus Road in Athens. The public is invited to attend and honor those loved ones they have lost.

Studies have shown that, when faced with a life-limiting illness, most people are more concerned about the impact it will have on their family, not themselves. By focusing on the individual, not the illness, hospice care honors life’s final journey, leaving a legacy of compassion and caring. Hospice and palliative care bring comfort, dignity and peace to help people live every moment of life to the fullest, leaving loved ones with memories they can treasure.

Hospice and palliative care professionals and volunteers understand that every person they care for is a unique individual with a lifetime of experiences, relationships and gifts to share.

November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month, a time to celebrate those who provide hospice and palliative care to those in our community and help raise awareness of quality care at the end of life. We are fortunate to have the experienced staff and trained volunteers of Appalachian Community Hospice offering care and support during one of life’s most challenging journeys. I encourage all those in our community to thank these dedicated individuals and support the ongoing work of Appalachian Community Hospice.

Tammy McGuire, R.N., CHPN

Athens

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Tribute to veterans

Dear Editor:

I would like to give a thank you to all of the men and women who have served our great nation through thick and thin.

I understand there are several different views on the military, but regardless we should be and are proud to have it. I realize that things have changed dramatically in the last 20 years about Veterans Day.

I can remember being proud to see Ole Glory being raised at two cemeteries when I was in the scouts. The American Legion would have the Color Guard an the M1 rifles and fire the 21-gun salute to pay the respect to the fallen solders.

The bugler would the play taps. I do not believe that there is a person who reads this paper who has never, seen, nor have never heard this with there own ears. I can say if you have missed this in life it is like having someone not even recognize your birthday. I believe this day should be observed by everyone with a simple thank you to veterans and a moment of silence.

I would say take Easter without the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. During Christmas this would be impossible. Without Veterans Day there would not be Memorial Day it also would be impossible. I will close and say once again. Thank you to all veterans. National Guard, Reserves and active duty. SEMPER FI!

Tyson Mugrage

Pomeroy