I would like to respond to the letter written to the editor June 19, criticizing Mayor Jim Kalb.

In the first place, the mayor works to carry out the ordinances passed by City Council. He cannot sell anything without the Council's decision. He had nothing to do with the conditions that caused this to be the option. In order for the recreational facilities to be operable, they have to be supported and used. This must be done by taxes, donations or a fee for use.

How many of these places does the letter writer support? It is easy to complain about a problem, another thing to do something about it.

Mayor Kalb always has voiced the hope he could get the area to work together so it could advance. He loves Portsmouth, and I know it is disturbing to him to see things the way they are. There is so much personal infighting by negative groups, it is surprising outsiders are still visiting here.

I do not live in Portsmouth, but I support it every day in every way I can. I love Portsmouth and Scioto County. If I didn't, I would have left a long time ago.

I feel we must work together to make this a better area for our children and grandchildren. I spend my time and energy doing what I can to help others, as I feel God wants me to.

I know there are others who make much more money than I. It is not the amount, it is how we share it. Only the people who work closely with me know the total of things I support.

The people who know are my wife and the people I deal with on projects to improve the area. Life is like baseball - it is a team effort. It is not the few home runs we make that win; it is the runs brought in by working together that will win the game.

Walter C. Stout Sr.

McDermott

Scioto County Relay for Life entertainers appreciated

This year's Scioto County Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society took place at the Scioto County Fairgrounds in Lucasville, June 22 and 23.

I would like to take this time to thank all of those who entertained at the event. Keith Monroe served as this year's master of ceremonies.

These energetic groups and individuals gave their time freely to help those walking in the relay. Cancer has touched most of our lives in one way or another. The funds raised by this year's relay are another step toward a cure.

Eva Wolery

Entertainment chairwoman

Portsmouth