Other views
By Staff
Signs keep disappearing
Editor,
We are only about three weeks away from Election Day on Nov. 5. Perhaps the most important issue for the citizens of Hartselle to decide is the wet/dry issue.
I am encouraged by the swelling indications of opposition that I am sensing.
This issue is always divisive for any county or city when it is thrust upon them and its citizens must take a stand.
I believe in the freedom of choice and respect the rights of those who disagree with my stand.
However, a rather revolting development has immediately taken place with the display of yard signs asking people to vote "no." Most of these signs were made available to church members this past Sunday.
Within hours of displaying the signs, reports began to circulate that they were being stolen, apparently by persons favoring Hartselle wet.
It is a shame that persons who have those convictions would resort to becoming thieves to support their stand.
Brooks Barkley
Hartselle
Alcohol will damage city
Editor,
I am very concerned about the upcoming wet/dry election.
I am a parent of seven children, all of which will be teens in just a few short years. My husband and I have always tried to teach our children the consequences of actions.
During their short lives, we have discussed at length the hazards of drinking along with what the Bible says about such things.
We have told them of broken homes, broken laws, and violence at the result of alcohol consumption.
We have taught them about cirrhosis of the liver and birth defects from alcohol consumption.
We have been very fortunate to live in a community where you can go to grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants without having to pass aisles and displays of beer and wine.
All of this will change if Hartselle goes wet.
I worked in a beautiful town for 15 years.
It was your typical southern town where everyone knew each other and people were family oriented.
Then someone had a brainstorm.
They thought the beautiful little town should sell alcohol. All of the usual propaganda was passed around-more education dollars, keep the money in your own town.
They had their election and voted yes to selling beer and alcohol.
That beautiful little town doesn't exist today.
In its place is a typical city where a flashing neon sign advertising beer can be spotted on every corner. Intermingled are buildings with the names of bail bondsmen in bold letters and a bigger jail.
Our family passed through the town on a recent visit to see grandparents. It was at night and we had stopped at a red light.
Our children noticed a man lying on the sidewalk.
After notifying the police, we discovered the man was intoxicated.
Is this what's in store for Hartselle? I certainly hope not.
Brenda Causey
Hartselle
Booze doesn't belong in city
Editor,
Alcohol bless Hartselle.
Do you, as I, find this to be today's mindset?
Hartselle-I have heard it called a bedroom community twice now. You know that's not all bad. People feel safe here.
I think and feel that Hartselle is alive and well!
Look at the school system. I believe the highest grade scores come from Hartselle. Thanks teachers, parents and students. Thanks school personnel for making it a safe and friendly place where children feel loved and cared for.
I called MADD yesterday if somehow they could help in this fight against alcohol. I was told they don't get involved in political issues.
Alcohol a political issue?
Hartselle, let's please get involved. Let's keep alcohol sales out of Hartselle. Let's show the politicians we don't need it to make Hartselle the great community it already is.
I, for one, would much rather have God continue to bless Hartselle.
Joan Jenkins
Hartselle
