VOICE OF THE PEOPLE| Nov. 8

Candidate offered different message

I would like to take this opportunity to thank those in our communities who supported me in the South Carolina House District 48 race. I met and got to know many people who worked very hard on my behalf, and I am grateful to them. I knew from the beginning that it would be an uphill battle in District 48 — and it was.

A positive aspect of this campaign, though,was that this time, another message reached the public besides that of preserving conservative values. People heard that, when they cast their vote, they would be making decisions that would impact them very directly — decisions on critical issues for South Carolina: protecting the revenue sources of our public education systems; addressing budget and tax reform; working to save and add job opportunities; addressing health care options for everyone; providing equity and protective legislation for women, and protecting our environment and shoring up the infrastructure.

They heard, too, that it is the people's right to expect that their legislators will be committed to making South Carolina a leader in all these important areas, rather than continuing to fall behind.

Again, thank you. Please know that itwas an honor and privilege to be a candidate.

Kathy Cantrell

Lake Wylie

Chester High School is making real strides

The Oct. 26 letter from Alisha McCarley does not speak for the entire student body of Chester High School. Every school has problems, and we are no different. The article just pointed out the negative points, and some statements were not accurate. Chester High has plenty of positive attributes. Over the past four years, the school has made many improvements.

We have new and better technology. There are SAT/ACT workshops available to every student. Our lunch menu has a better variety. Hand sanitizers have been installed in every classroom. There is a new training room. Throughout these four years, we have seen improvements such as new sidewalks, trophy cases, gym floor and gym doors.

Chester High has a great special-needs program. The teacher cadets have formed a partnership with them that will foster lifetime friendships. There are plenty of hard-working club sponsors who really care about their causes. In the afternoons, we have police officers who stop traffic in order that students have an easier time leaving the parking lot.

The resource officers make our school a safe and comfortable environment. The Cyclone football team has brought pride to our school and community. All of our coaches work hard and really care about the athletes, on and off the field. The administration and guidance department are always available to assist us. The entire staff works diligently to make sure the needs of students are met.

As we finish our senior year and prepare to leave Chester High, we trust improvements will continue for future students. We are proud to say we are from Chester High School!

Teacher cadets

Chester High School

Editor's note: This letter was signed by 12 teacher cadets.

Reflect on America and its many virtues

It was a beautiful crisp fall morning for a dedication and unveiling of the military branch seals at Glencairn Garden. The city of Rock Hill, American Legion Post 34, VFW Post 2889, speakers, singers, bands and other participants and committees are to be commended for their planning and carrying out a terrific program and tribute to veterans.

I hope everyone will take time to visit this memorial wall and reflect on what it stands for. It is quite a tribute to those that served and to their families for the sacrifices they made.

Gen. Blackwell mentioned in his speech that it will also serve as a tribute to our future veterans, because freedom is not free. It is something that America will always have to fight for, just as we are doing now.

I think it fitting that the wall is not inscribed with names of the fallen like most memorials. To me it inspires the mind to reflect on the importance of having a strong military, what the flag means and the price we must pay for it to continue to fly.

Looking at the wall inspired me to reflect on good times and times not so good in my life. Of people I know or have known from the past. To reflect on America and what it means to be an American, and what others think of America. To think about our freedoms and what a great country we live in, and what I can do to make it better.

May God continue to bless America.

Buddy Motz

Rock Hill