Editor, Times-Union: I agree with David Kolbe that we need to take some time to allow an independent committee to study the school issues. This committee must not have ties to current board, superintendent or Grace College.
With this study the superintendent and board could be mandated to furnish said committee all information as to costs, etc., covering the many offerings that have been furnished monthly.
The school board and superintendent must be held accountable for the wasted money that takes place on a regular basis. Two current issues of waste is the new air conditioning recently installed in buildings suggested to be closed. Also I understand new carpeting has been purchased for two of the proposed closings.
We must not be blackmailed into making hasty decisions. Threats to cut programs and lay off teachers is an old standby to get what certain interested parties want to push through before any thought can be given to the issues.
We do not need a rubber stamp school board. Congratulations to those who have not conceded to the pressure thrust upon them.
Paulene Holderman, taxpayer
Warsaw via e-mail
Pierceton Says Thanks
Editor, Times-Union: On behalf of Pierceton Elementary School and, specifically, the 2003-04 Student Council, I would like to thank several organizations and individuals who supported our Student Council Leadership Camp held Aug. 7-9 at the Holiday Inn Express. The purpose of the camp was to provide the elected student representatives with training in leadership, team building, parliamentary procedure, school pride and community service.
First, I would like to thank Kosciusko County Community Foundation Inc. and The Education/Philanthropic/ Opportunities Endowment No. 1 fund for their generous grants that allowed the students to attend the overnight camp at a minimal cost to them. The grant money also allowed us to schedule a national youth speaker, Mark Bernstein, who spoke about "The Jimmy Project - Random Acts of Kindness."
I would also like to thank Education for Conflict Resolution Inc. for donating 4.5 hours of conflict mediation training. I do not want to forget the students and staff at Pierceton Elementary who supported our sucker fund-raiser last school year. I am also grateful for the parents of the 24 students who will be serving on this year's student council for their support. Many of these parents also provided assistance during the camp.
Lastly, I would like to thank the Holiday Inn Express staff for their hospitality and Ms. Miller, our Title 1 teacher, for life guarding during our recreational time in the pool! The mission of our student council is to "lead all students in building a sense of community and provide opportunities to contribute to and support our school motto: "Caring and Understanding Build Success." However, the impact and success of this student leadership camp will extend beyond the walls of the Pierceton community thanks to our supporters.
Rhonda Graney Guidance counselor/student council adviser
Pierceton Elementary School
Cougar Sightings
Editor, Times-Union: Just finished reading the article of "Cougar sightings likely just rumor." Thought you might like to know, the Eastern Puma Research Network, which collectes, evaluates and investigates alledged reports, has catalogued 105 sightings since 1983.
At least eight cubs have also been reported accompanying an adult cat.
In 2002, nine sightings were reported with two being of the black phase. Since sightings are fairly frequent in Illinois and comfirmed cougar scat has been found in Ohio, there is positively the likelihood of "transient" wild cougars moving through Indiana from west to east and vice versa.
For more information, contact John A. Lutz at Eastern Puma Research Network on a 24-hour hotline, 304-749-7778, or e-mail epuma@beaconnet.net
Thank you ... and have a nice day.
John A. Lutz Director Eastern Puma Research Network
via e-mail
Winona Lake
Editor, Times-Union: While visiting in the area, we decided to check out the Village at Winona shops. We stopped in at the Blue Lion one evening and were unexpectedly blessed by a singer by the name of Emily Thomas. The hour spent there was the most worshipful experience we've had in a long time. With a voice and stage presence unequaled, she was able to convey what it means to know the Savior as an ever-present and real companion. Her music has the power to reach people and God allows that to be.
Thanks, Winona - for the best memory of our vacation and for the best coffee!
