Monday, March 9, 1998

Tight rein on budget

I would like to get my two cents in concerning the district attorney's race and only two cents because I am a tightwad. I don't too much care for the plea bargain system. But what I dislike even more is the thought that my taxes will go up because every case is taken to trial.

We've already been told that we are going to be out more than $13,000 to retry one case. Is that what trials cost? If that's true, then the fewer trials the better, in my checkbook. I would rather see my tax dollars being spent keeping the perps in jail.

Also, look at the sentences that have been handed down here lately by Taylor County juries: 99 years, 30 years, eight years for a juvenile. These are tough! With sentences like these, no one will want to go to trial; thus the backlog of cases increases because of a no-plea policy, and nothing gets done.

No, thank you. James Eidson, you keep doing what you've been doing and keep a tight rein on that budget.

MARY MERCER

Abilene

We need Sandy Self

As a police officer's wife, I have had a lot of insight on things that a number of people do not see, and I would just like to encourage you to do yourself a favor and vote for Sandy Self for district attorney.

Yes, she is a "family person," as someone put it, but don't you think it's time we do something for the young folks who are no doubt headed for a cruel world? I would like to think someone as involved as Sandy is in helping young people and devoting herself to organizations that do nothing but help others would be your No. 1 choice.

Maybe you could call her the Princess Diana type. Think about it -- this is the future of your children that we are talking about.

I think people sometimes start slinging dirt and lose sight of what we really need. Sandy is no doubt the best candidate for district attorney. She is not only a loving person, she's also a tough prosecutor. I've seen her in action, and she's good. We need her.

JULIE WALKER

Abilene

Chuck's attributes

I have known Chuck Statler for many years. If asked to list his characteristics, I would use phrases such as a wonderful friend, a hard worker, completely dedicated to his community and someone you can trust without question.

These are attributes that I would want all of our elected officials to possess. Fortunately, we have the opportunity to elect Chuck to the Taylor County commissioners court. He is the right person for the job.

RUBY PEREZ

Abilene

A clean campaign

Every time I see Melinda Cunningham, I'm more impressed.

She's got a style and charisma about her that few people possess. She's got a quick wit, and she's obviously very intelligent. She's not pretentious, yet she stands up for what she believes in.

I'm also impressed that Melinda has run a clean campaign for county commissioner. She hasn't let the negative barbs of her opponent's supporters weaken her resolve or bring her down to their level. She's not been afraid to face questions about her husband's financial difficulties, and she's a stronger person because of those difficulties.

Good leaders are hard to find -- especially ones who will allow the public scrutiny it takes to run for elected office -- and we need more people like Melinda Cunningham in government positions. There's not a doubt in my mind she has what it takes to be an excellent representative for the people of Precinct 4 and Taylor County. You'll be impressed, too!

JOHN WALLACE

Abilene