Wednesday, March 4, 1998

Friends of Eidson's

In reference to Mikie Hammett's March 1 letter, we suggest she check all the facts concerning James Eidson before she opens her mouth and inserts her foot.

James Eidson has been a friend of ours for many years, and we know for a fact he was a good husband and has always been a loving father to his children.

In reference to the letter that suggested Sandy Self could not run the district attorney's office and maintain a busy personal life, shame on you. This campaign is not about personal issues; rather, it is about who is best qualified to be our district attorney.

We will cast our vote for James Eidson based on the facts and nothing else.

WES AND PAM RONEMUS

Abilene

Via e-mail

Needs of victims

I have lived in Abilene for a number of years, and I thank my lucky stars I have never had to use the services of the DA's office. I have been blessed and have never been victimized.

However, if something were to happen to me or mine, I could turn to James Eidson's office with complete confidence. He is a wonderful trial lawyer and administrator. He is sensitized to the needs of victims of all types of crimes and exhibits a deep desire to do a good job for the citizens of Taylor County.

I encourage everyone to allow James to continue his good service to this community by voting for him.

DELTON JACKSON

Abilene

Endorsing Sandy

Congratulations to the editors at the Abilene Reporter-News for having the insight and wisdom to support Sandy Self in the race for district attorney. They too must see a change is needed in the way cases are being handled.

I also note the Abilene Police Officers' Association is not endorsing the incumbent of 10 years. This is significant, as these are the persons working closest with the district attorney's office. I speculate they too may not be happy with the number of plea bargains being handed out by our current district attorney. These pleas are often on cases with substantial evidence.

Finally, a note about the "voter alert" that was published Sunday, Feb. 28: This advertisement was signed by the prosecutors working for the current district attorney. It comes as no surprise that they support Eidson, as he is their boss and their jobs may very well depend on his re-election.

I had trouble recognizing most of the signers. Maybe it is because they rarely take cases to trial. I also didn't see Monty Hall's (of "Let's Make a Deal" fame) name there. I was almost certain he worked there.

SHAWN McGLOTHLIN

Abilene

Via e-mail

Statler's character

We are supporting Chuck Statler for county commissioner, precinct 4, because of his powerful combination of personal character, leadership ability and successful business experience. All of these characteristics are critical at any level of public service.

Chuck's business experience as an extremely effective salesperson for KTAB-TV is widely known. Many people may not realize he also brings experience as a manager who has met a payroll and operated a business, having served as the manager of two Winn-Dixie grocery stores and of a small radio station before he and Sherri married and made Abilene their home 15 years ago.

We also applaud Chuck's personal fiscal responsibility. The Statlers live modestly and meet their obligations, which is exactly the attitude that should be fundamental in making decisions about the county's money.

Chuck's qualifications, character and knowledge of the city and county will make him an effective county commissioner.

BRUCE AND JANE EVANS

Abilene

Via e-mail