Letter to the editor for the week of March 27

staff reports
Published: March 26, 2008

Recently inspired

I’m writing today because I have been inspired.
I’ve been disgruntled with the state of our government for far too long. I agree with Barack Obama and the movement that is taking place in our country this year.
I am asking Democrats, Independents and open-minded Republicans alike to recognize that if things are ever going to change we have to get involved. 
Recognize that we, the people have lost control. Watch the news. Millions of Americans feel the same and yes, there is power in numbers.
I’m asking you to be less fearful, less intimidated by what the neighbors might think. I want to encourage you to talk to your friends and neighbors about this great country. I want to encourage you to stand up for what you believe and recognize that none of our candidates can be truly effective without your help.
I want to encourage you to make this your year of change. Find a cause that you believe in, whether it’s education, the environment, better healthcare, jobs, whatever speaks to your heart and mind.
Then, get off the couch, grab a friend and get involved. What better example for your kids? There are many people right here, right now that are just as motivated as I am but are just not connecting with each other in this county.
I want to invite you to the next meeting of the Amherst Co Democratic Committee.
Check the amherstdems.org website for details. Bring your friends and your ideas and know that you are welcome. 

Julie Sandidge
Madison Heights

Phelps Road reaction

I am a resident of Phelps Road in Madison Heights so it was with great interest that I read the article in the March 13 edition of the New Era-Progress about the old Phelps Road School.
Mr. Price requested the county to sell the school to him for $3; funds allocated by the county for demolition (more than $200,000) be used for structural and roof repairs; dumpsters, landfill fees, and other related expenses be assumed by the county, real estate taxes be rebated for the next five years; water, sewer, electric, and fiber optic/data network hook-ups be done by the county; and asbestos removal and lead paint abatement be funded by the county.
It seems like the only item Mr. Price did not request was for a cherry on top.
A parade of well-wishers has offered alternative uses of the school over the past few years only to learn they were infeasible. (Mr. Price has added a new twist in wanting me to pay for his dream.)
I’m tired of seeing that eyesore every day as I pass by it.
The cost of demolition has more than doubled since the school was emptied.
The Board of Supervisors has delayed for too long in making a decision to demolish the old school. Demolish the school now and don’t wait for another doubling of cost.

Richard L. Bennett
Madison Heights