Westmoreland Laurels & Lances
Laurel: To local firefighters. Some departments are taking a proactive approach to learn about today's hybrid cars -- which can pack up to a 650-volt shock to an unsuspecting rescuer, or a trapped occupant, if firefighters need to cut into the vehicle after a wreck. What this underscores is the commitment of volunteers to keep up with the requisites of their public service, which is commendable. That said, it's a shame some communities respond to that level of dedication with little more than lip service in support of their volunteers.
Lance: To the Ligonier Valley School Board. Resident Tom Beckman's concerns about how students' skirt lengths are checked and the district's cell phone policy were met with chiding from some officials, who evidently took umbrage at his criticism; he was told to come back with "valid recommendations." Excuse us, but residents should be free to candidly address any issues to their school board. Listening and responding with due respect come with the job -- like it or lump it.
Laurel: To U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster. The Blair County Republican has introduced legislation that would honor the passengers and crew of Flight 93 with a Congressional Gold Medal. A previous U.S. Senate effort to award the medal to those who fought back against the 9/11 terrorists failed. It is high time that Americans aboard the jetliner that crashed near Shanksville be formally recognized for what they are: heroes.
Laurel: To county commissioners. In line with the $8.5 million Courthouse Square Extension project, commissioners Tom Ceraso and Tom Balya want to examine if there is a better way to arrange county offices -- such as the tax claims and recorder of deeds offices -- to make them more easily accessible to the public. That makes sense -- depending, of course, on what an office shuffle will cost the county.
Laurel: To litter busters. Volunteers with Adopt-a-Highway have been bagging trash along local roadsides -- not exactly pleasant work but certainly worthwhile. Also last weekend, volunteers from across the state joined The Great PA Cleanup, collecting trash along roadsides, streams, parks and neighborhoods. The evidence of these efforts are bags upon bags filled with refuse. Just imagine if all this litter was left to accumulate.
Remain alert: Two armed robberies recently in parking lots in Hempfield Township should raise citizens' awareness. Granted, such occurrences are rare. But even in areas where they feel safe, residents shouldn't let their guard down. Always keep alert of strangers, on foot and in cars, in local shopping plazas.
