GLASGOW — Dear Editor,

What are our magistrates thinking? It appears that the new jail is going forward, however, what do the taxpayers really think?

I feel that this matter should have been placed on a referendum and voted on by the people who are ultimately going to pay for it. Judge-Executive Davie Greer, Jailer Matt Mutter and the magistrates who are in favor of building this new facility have yet to produce a letter from the state that says they will definitely close the existing facility or provide accurate figures for remodeling the current facility.

A big nice shiny new building would be nice, but now is not the time. We know the approximate cost involved, however we cannot predict the revenue.

As recent articles have shown, the jail cannot collect money due it now from the state or the inmates. Are we to assume that this is going to improve? All articles have clearly stated that the state government is looking at every avenue to keep state inmates out of the county jails.

It is not too late to rethink this project. The land is purchased but could be held for the future when times improve or used for other developments.

Voters, please remember who has supported this project when it is time to cast your ballot in the upcoming election. Judge Greer wants to be able to say, “I got this new $10 million jail built.” But just remember, she was also the one who said she had the financing all worked out so that it wouldn’t cost the taxpayers a dime. Do you really believe that will be the case when all is said and done?

Gary Britt

Cave City



There are good ways to offer aid to others

Dear Editor,

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky feels the loss brought on by the recent earthquake in Haiti. Whenever a major disaster strikes, the generosity within each of us compels many to look for positive ways to respond. Many seek to donate to Goodwill, believing that our non-profit will be able to respond to the disaster. While your Goodwill is not a designated relief agency, we have learned over the course of many years and countless disasters that well-intentioned donations of clothing and other items sent into disaster areas often create more problems than they solve. Most recently, after Hurricane Katrina, USA Today reported that excess donated clothing was piled on roadsides and strewn across parking lots because there weren’t enough volunteers to sort the donations and distribute them.

Experts in disaster relief have informed us that the best way to respond to a humanitarian crisis like the one currently underway in Haiti is to send money to a reputable relief agency that allows for emergency and necessary items to be purchased. This, we are told, meets the immediate and critical needs of the victims in a timely and efficient manner.

Before anyone begins collecting items or clothing to send to a disaster area, it is critically important that they determine if there has been an actual call for such items and that appropriate warehousing and distribution facilities are in place to ensure that donations make their way to those in need. Otherwise, the best of intentions may cause undue hardship for those responding to the disaster and potentially lead to needless waste.

We appreciate Goodwill donors who are looking for ways to respond to this disaster. We encourage you to continue to donate your gently-used clothing and household items to Goodwill to support people with disabilities or other disadvantages. Further, we ask that you support the efforts of international relief agencies with monetary donations to ensure that those affected by this disaster in Haiti receive the relief they need.

Respectfully,

Roland R. Blahnik

President & CEO



Goodwill Industries of Kentucky

Thanks offered for support

The staff at Barren County Head Start would like to thank the following individuals and groups for their support of the children and families that we serve. Your generosity and compassion at Christmas was greatly appreciated.

Southside Baptist Church, Cedar Grove Baptist Church, American Materials Inc., Park City Charities, High Clearance Off Road, Glasgow City Police Department, Sue Muse, Kay Bush, Sara Wheeler, Becky Lee and the Underwood Family.

Thank you all so much and God bless you.

Sheila Jolly,

Center Manager,

Barren County Head Start



Christmas was made nicer

Dear Editor,

On behalf of the patients and staff of Western State Hospital, Western State Nursing Facility, and Volta, a heartfelt thanks is extended to everyone who participated in the annual Christmas program.

The holiday season was much brighter, thanks to the generosity of caring and compassionate individuals in this community. The entertainment, parties, gifts and contributions made on behalf of the patients were greatly appreciated.

Thanks for taking time out of a busy holiday schedule to remember and visit with us at our facilities.

Sincerely,

Tony Winfield

Community Services Coordinator