TO THE EDITOR

Tough economic times are affecting many of our residents and the provision of our county services. As many of you may know, the pool at the Curry Colvin Recreational Complex named in memory of Jessie Gunby, has been included as part of the cutbacks and is not scheduled to open this summer.

This news was very disappointing to me and many other residents that have voiced similar opinions. Personally, I know that my Aunt Jessie would be very disappointed, as she volunteered over 25 years for the Lincoln County Recreation Department coaching t-ball, baseball, basketball, soccer and about anything else they would have her do. She invested her time and money for the children in our county and dearly loved them all as much as she did her 50 plus nieces and nephews that she ushered to all the sports offered at "The Rec Center."

The opening of the pool was a great

together to save our pool

addition for the recreation department. Many children enjoy coming to the pool each summer and benefit from its programs. Most importantly, the swimming lessons that are offered may save a life in the future and the provision of a safe and monitored environment keeps our children from swimming unsupervised in the many "unofficial swimming areas" located throughout the county in our lake.

Additionally, the opportunity to participate in structured and supervised activity provides a safe place for our youngsters to be instead of having idle time where mischief may replace these positive experiences.

We are all aware of the country's, and our county's, economic crisis and understand that cuts have to be made. However, as proud "country folk" we also do not expect the government to do everything for us. We all share in the belief that it is our obligation and responsibility to invest in the lives of all of our children.

This situation presents an opportunity to set aside our various political differences and come together as a community to prevent the closing of the pool. The expected cost for the pool to remain open is $11,400. This includes necessary repair, a replacement drain cover (mandatory by state law), the salary of two lifeguards and pool chemicals. We are soliciting donations from our businesses, churches, civic organizations and individuals. All donations will be used solely for the repair and expense of the pool for this year. If ample funds are not raised to successfully open the pool this year, the funds will be returned to each donor.

If you have any questions, you may contact the concerned citizen chairperson, Venessa Gunby-Brown, at 706-359-7820 or 706-319-0035. Thank you in advance for your consideration and support of this important community endeavor.

VANESSA GUNBY-BROWN