Letters to the Editor
Delaying the block schedule vote was the right thing to do to please everyone

The GBHS teachers have the perfect opportunity to teach our children why being an informed voter is a responsibility of every citizen in our democracy. The article last week about the vote for block scheduling stated that some teachers believe "neither the issue nor procedure were adequately explained".

The vote was scheduled, information was distributed and the votes were cast. When the votes were counted, there were not enough "yes" votes to represent 80 percent or more of the faculty. Why should a group of teachers and parents now disrupt the process by calling for a re-vote? That shakes the foundation of our democracy!

I applaud the county school board for giving Mr. Ladner and his staff another year in which to figure out how to implement the block scheduling. And I sincerely hope that they do not bend to the pressure from a small group of people to call another vote. No matter what side of the issue you support, you must support a vote that is fairly cast. It is the responsibility of the voter to make sure she understands all of the facts before casting a vote. This is a great lesson to teach our children.

Paul Carney

Gulf Breeze

Thanks for the coverage

Thank you for including the Torch Awards in the latest issue of Gulf Breeze News! Our Foundation trustees are really excited about the event this year, so hopefully, it will continue to grow.

Thank you for your support of your BBB!

Karen Szulczewski

Communications Director,

Better Business Bureau

Recycling article answered questions

Thank you for the follow up report on my recycling questions. Speaking to you and learning what the county actually does with our recycling efforts, is at the least, reassuring. I appreciate your thoroughness and consideration. Keep up the good work! Take care.

Jenni Koontz

Gulf Breeze

Freezing temps increase generosity

On behalf of hundreds of seniors, I would like to thank everyone who demonstrated their generous support for the elderly during the recent below freezing temperatures. In two days, concerned citizens donated 108 heaters, over 200 blankets and numerous other items. These items were immediately provided to seniors in need by Council on Aging of West Florida. In addition, a sizeable amount of cash was donated for weather-related purposes. I would also like to express our appreciation to the numerous media outlets who helped us reach the public with news of the heating-related needs of the elderly and the increased impact that low temperatures can have on their health.

John B. Clark

President/CEO, Council on

Aging of West Florida

MFD unfairly critical of GBN

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the staff and writers at the Gulf Breeze News, especially Lisa Newell. Lisa, I have been unfairly critical of your reporting. I apologize. It has been an incredibly difficult time for the Midway Fire District. I thank you for your support of the district past and present. I am committed to developing better relationships with the business community, homeowners, and surrounding communities. I believe together we can create a prosperous, safe, and caring place to live. Today, I needed to remind myself of the two greatest commandments: 1. Love God 2. Love Others

Jacque Gorris

Gulf Breeze