Opinions for week ending: Sunday, March 15 2009

(3.10.09) Flood Relief Funds: What really happened
One of the most publicized criminal cases in Haywood County history centered around me, Denise Mathis, and the whereabouts of flood relief funds. I will never forget that day in August, 2006, when I walked through the door of the Waynesville Police Department, was fingerprinted, was photographed for my “mug shot,” and was escorted into jail. I was charged with 14 counts of embezzlement, even though I had done nothing wrong. I was completely innocent.

(3.10.09) What we're doing to future generations should shame us
I vividly remember the hard times of the 1930s. Having a birth date of 1917, those 1930s were my formative years. Money was tight and not easy to borrow. The people my family considered "well off" were those who were regularly employed and collecting a paycheck regularly. Twenty-five percent of family men were unemployed. There was no such thing as unemployment benefits, social security, etc.

(3.10.09) In the air - Status promises lasting effect for Pitt
Pitt County is expected to learn later this week if it meets new Environmental Protection Agency standards for ozone in the air, a critical designation that would have lasting impact. Should the county fail to win a favorable classification, it could delay transportation projects and harm the community's favorable business climate.

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