Editor, Times-Union: On June 8 a town meeting was held to discuss the future of the North Webster Tippecanoe Township Library. Taxpayers were invited to attend to offer support and examine concerns related to allowing this facility to become a Class 1 library. Certainly all taxpayers should ask questions and expect answers and it's natural to feel concern when there's a suggestion that taxes may be raised to cover the cost of community improvement. Many people would agree that paying taxes isn't as distressing as wasteful spending.
For those who remember the library's early days in a tiny building and later a much-appreciated step up to its second home, it's hard to imagine a negative reaction to providing a top-notch facility for all residents. Hours and trained volunteer staff have expanded so the library can serve more people at times convenient for them. On just one recent morning in a two-hour period, 96 books were checked out, computers were in constant use and eight new library cards were issued. That "story" can be repeated week after week.
Who will benefit from the library? First are the children and young people who have access to more materials and programs, seniors who've moved to smaller homes and haven't space for computers or many books and the visually impaired who use the audio books. What's the cost of taking the family to a movie theater and what kind of films are shown? The library has video and DVD selections for family enjoyment (and you can have your own popcorn).
Projects that benefit athletics get support and that's good. The library is there year-round even when it's too cold, too hot or too wet for much outdoor activity, and it serves the summer residents as well. People appreciate a safe environment for children, a pleasant alternative to boredom for those who are not involved in sports and an asset to our community.
We are property owners and senior citizens on a fixed income and we wholeheartedly support this endeavor. We've seen people working to get books and equipment moved, seen joy on children's faces as they carry their book-bags home, seen the pride people feel with what has been accomplished here. It's time to make it a first-class library.
Jim and Laura Hill via e-mail
Likes Madison
Editor, Times-Union: After reading Jennifer Mink's letter concerning Madison Elementary, I had to smile. My sons attended Madison from kindergarten through sixth grade, so I had a lot of years to experience the "Madison Pride." Everything in Jennifer Mink's letter is absolutely true. I always said that what Madison lacked in its facilities, it made up for in its faculty and curriculum. Not only are the faculty members great educators, every teacher I encountered was loving, warm and truly cared about my sons' educations. As for the office staff and principal ... there are none finer! Jeff Neumann spends countless after work hours and spends his own personal money on his students who need assistance. I have heard dozens of stories about his selfless and tireless efforts to help make a child's life a little bit better, but I am sure that for every story I have heard, there are probably two or three more untold.
In closing, I would like to repeat Ms. Mink's praises and thank each and every faculty member at Madison Elementary for a job well done!
Linda Smith via e-mail
Ice Cream Social
Editor, Times-Union: The community of Warsaw/Kosciusko County would like to thank the Greater Warsaw Ministerial Association for the delicious ice cream social they provided, free of charge, last Sunday afternoon. On such a warm afternoon, the more than 200 cups and 200 cones - more than 30 gallons of ice cream, in a variety of flavors - went rapidly. Even a dozen 3-foot banana splits disappeared in no time. Some ate and chatted, while others participated in balloon toss, egg toss and three-legged races. People from knee-high to senior citizens and many nationalities turned out for the gala event. It proved to be a huge success.
Pastor John B. Lowe II New Life Christian Church & World Outreach
Veterans
Editor, Times-Union: Thank you for the fine coverage of the special memorials honoring our veterans. Thank you, Teresa Smith, for sharing their stories with others. Well done!
So many hours were given to make sure the veterans had their day and they surely did.
For all who shared in making this a day to reflect and give a special thank-you to those who served in World War II - I give you my sincere thank-you.
Everyone knows that Ken Locke gave a full measure of devotion to this cause. What a man! Thank you, Ken.
