Council should get behind jail project (04/15/08)

To the editor:

Is current Jay County Councilman Gerald Kirby jealous of an expansion to the Jay County Jail? He, along with others, keeps opposing recommendations made by Sheriff Ray Newton to expand the jail.

Mr. Kirby, of course, would oppose anything concerning the jail; it is a lot of money. Kirby is running for office in this year's election for county commissioner.

He just wants to show how fiscally responsible he can be.

When Kirby was the sheriff, I am sure he had to ask for additional money to run the old jail.

So, Mr. Kirby, it is time to start helping the Jay County Sheriff and the citizens of Jay County. Quit opposing this project.

Sheriff Newton has been doing his homework and trying his best to present this problem to you and other council members.

We also have another former sheriff on the council, George Meehan. George, do not sit by and let this problem keep getting opposed by some council members. If you remember when we moved into the new jail in 1983 we had space issues. The current jail was too small to start with. When former sheriff Kip Robinette was in office, he had more bunks added.

Come on George, I am counting on you to do the right thing. Support sheriff Newton and the expansion effort. Thanks in advance, George.

Oh, yes, let's not forget Marilyn Coleman, county councilwoman. Ms. Coleman is also opposing the expansion deal. She is supporting Mr. Kirby. Why? Ms. Coleman is also running for re-election.

As far as I can remember, Ms. Coleman has always opposed anything to do with spending money for the jail. If you, Mr. Kirby and Ms. Coleman, want to help your campaigns I would strongly support the expansion issue. I would get out and talk to the citizens of Jay County. You may be surprised at their opinions.

Also, thank you commissioners for supporting the expansion project.

David Swoveland

Pennville

FFA thanks

To the editor:

This year's annual Jay County FFA banquet was a big success. Thanks to all the area businesses and Jay County residents who donated in any way to our student auction and banquet. Thanks to Pete Shawver and crew, who volunteered for the student auction.

Thanks to the Purdue alumni who prepared our delicious pork chops and the Jay School Corporation cooks who prepared the delicious meal.

Congratulations to Bob Lyons, who was presented with the Sagamore of the Wabash Award from State Rep. Bill Davis. Jim Bob McEwen was named this year's honorary member. Many awards, along with three FFA renewable scholarships, a Redkey Vet Clinic Records scholarship, and a Harvestland scholarship, were presented.

We hope that all who attended enjoyed the evening as we honored and acknowledged our young and old in the area of agriculture. Because of the generosity of our community, the Jay County FFA has been able to grant scholarships to numerous FFA members over the years. In addition, we have been able to involve even more students in various judging teams and area competitions. Last but not least, thanks to The Commercial Review for covering the event and the various FFA activities throughout the year. We are extremely proud of the efforts of our members.

Again, many thanks to all who have made this year's banquet a big success. Your support is truly appreciated.

Jay County FFA advisors Melissa Muhlenkamp, Jared Nussbaum and Edward Paxson[[In-content Ad]]