President Obama will not approve Gen. Stanley McChrystal's request for more troops because Obama wants to look at our strategy.
Are we to believe that with hundreds of thousands of federal employees in the Department of Defense, Department of State, military and Obama's staff since January 2009, that no one has had the time to think about our strategy?
Obama is waiting until after our elections next week so his decision can't be used against Democrats seeking election. Meanwhile, the terrorists in Afghanistan have increased their attacks, killing more American soldiers, hoping as the number of deaths increase that the American people will push Obama to get out of Afghanistan.
Dru White Deuel
Hickory
A bright spot in the storms of life
Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry has a new bright bench located near the bus stop in front of GHCCM, courtesy of the City of Hickory Public Art Commission's "Art on the Bench" program.
The bench that graces the bus stop in front of GHCCM was painted by Michelle Shield, and it is an abstract design of reds, oranges and yellows. It is entirely appropriate for GHCCM, since we are a "bright spot in the storms of life" for thousands of our fellow citizens.
According to Mandy Pitts, Hickory public information officer, since the fall of 2008, artists from the Greater Hickory area were chosen by the commission to paint the benches, many of which are at bus stops, in their own unique styles. The artists received a $400 stipend for painting supplies and spent three months on their masterpieces.
The 40 benches were designed by David Zagaroli, designer and former art commission chairman.
They were crafted from steel donated by Benco Steel Co. and constructed by Valdese-based Baker's Waste Equipment Co.
GHCCM, through a pilot project with the Western Piedmont Regional Transit Authority/ Greenway Public Transportation system, now sells tickets for fare riders, offering a convenient location for clients and others who live in the area and who rely on public transportation. Riders can purchase tickets with cash, debit, or credit cards from GHCCM's Thrift Store. Now, riders can rest easy until the bus arrives and departs.
Special thanks to Donna B. Cullum, staff liaison to the City of Hickory Public Art Commission; David Zagaroli; Benco Steel; Baker's; artist Michelle Shield and Mandy Pitts for the information on the program.
Roger D. Baker
Executive Director
Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry
Hickory
Keep your seat belt, attitude buckled
Here's my response to William Story's letter in Thursday's newspaper: Keep your seat belt and your mouth buckled! I received a seat-belt ticket several years ago. However, rather than make excuses for my irresponsible behavior, I promptly paid it.
Forrest Gump news flash for you — "it" happens.
I am not unsympathetic of Mr. Story's financial plight, but I do not appreciate his flippant attitude.
Jenny Dacken
Hickory
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