Monday, November 16, 1998

Our unsafe streets

I waited until the political campaign ended and letters on that subject subsided. A serious problem on our Abilene streets, and particularly at our intersections, needs to be addressed.

I have observed on numerous occasions some drivers going through busy intersections at a speeding rate, after their light has turned red. One of those intersections is at North 10th and Treadaway.

A big pickup with two young girls was going south on Treadaway about 15 miles above the limit, about 55 mph. It drove through the intersection about five seconds after the light turned red. I know because I was already stopped at that light in the other lane when it whizzed by. If the older couple had taken their right-of-way going west on North 10th after their light turned green without looking both ways, there would have been a fatal broadside catastrophe.

It is not safe to take your right-of-way. With all the drugs, alcohol and cell phones among drivers, we need to look both ways before we ever proceed on a green light. Taking our right-of-way isn't worth the death, suffering and physical therapy required after one of these disasters.

So please, Abilenians, use extra caution at any intersection. Just assume all other drivers are under the influence of something taking their attention from driving. It's well worth the extra few seconds of time, and it may save a life. That life could be yours or mine!

PEGGY TIDWELL TOWNSEND

Abilene

Abilene is blessed

I wanted to take this opportunity to remind everyone about the great city in which we live. I recently chaired the Education Division of the United Way campaign. I know that there cannot be a better place than Abilene to live and work. The cooperative spirit we enjoy between our schools, public and private, elementary through university, and our business community is tremendous.

Our part of the campaign was successful due to committed administration, faculty and staff throughout our city and committed businessmen like Ron English, owner of Burger King. He stepped up to be a partner with our schools so that students might catch a glimpse of how important it is to give and to be involved as a partner in helping others.

Abilene is blessed with business people like Ron and a unique and wonderful group of educators who are truly dedicated to building a caring community.

STEVE CUNNINGHAM

Abilene

Caring in Cisco

At a time in U.S. history when school children are murdering schoolmates, teachers and other adults, I wanted to tell you and your readers what some young people in the Cisco school system did last year.

I live at Canterbury Villa in Cisco. The teachers formed a "Teen Leadership Class" and they adopted a "grandparent" from Canterbury Villa. The program was led by teacher and counselor Katy Conring and Coach Cindy Underwood. Every Friday the students would visit an adopted grandparent.

I was the adopted grandparent of Judy Taylor. She and her classmates surely brightened this place up. I met some of her friends and her "special someone," Mr. Stovall.

I don't know what those young people are studying this year, but with their caring personalities and eagerness to learn, I'm sure they will go far.

Thank you, coaches, counselors and teachers, for what you are doing for your students. Thank you, Abilene Reporter-News, for allowing me the space to comment on these individuals.

JEWEL KINARD

Cisco