Schools

Others should also abolish soda sales in schools

Re: Soda machines on public school campuses:

Editor: Following Hernando County's lead, school districts around the country are heeding the urgent call to arms by the medical community. School districts in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Seattle, Boston, Las Vegas, Austin, Scranton, Buffalo and many smaller cities and towns have gone soda-free.

Florida school officials outside of Hernando County should follow the local example and just say no to drugs.

Many deserve recognition for their help of family in need

Re: Outpouring of aid lifts family of seven, Dec. 21 Times:

Editor: I read Beth Gray's article about the Ouellette family and their misfortune of losing their home to a fire.

In the article, Ms. Gray mentioned all the donations, including being able to live in a home rent-free until February. She also mentioned that the family was invited to a dinner at the Brooksville Elks. I was at the dinner, and there is much more to that sentence.

The invitation also was extended from the West Hernando Athletic Club Seniors, which was its annual Christmas Party and whose president, Eddie Aviles, and Commissioner Sal Ficarra and a host of hard-working ladies put this together. Gifts and money were given to the family. Toys and appliances were among these gifts and, of course, the generosity of the Brooksville Elks Lodge.

If it were not for the WHACS Leagues' 120-plus members - a Softball League for 55 years and older who play at the Veterans Park on Spring Hill Drive - this would not have been possible. It would have been nice to remember these unselfish men and women who deserve recognition for their work in this tragic situation.

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[Last modified January 5, 2005, 18:02:39]