What I do know is that prior to the presentation I contacted each youth league. Not the presidents, but people I know that are well respected in those organizations, and I explained to them my proposal ... they all said, as many others, that it sounds like a great idea.
While this proposal is one of many options that the local Parks and Recreation Board has to consider, I just want our community to know the truth. If you have questions, concerns, or if you would like for me to show what I presented, I will do so gladly.
This idea is not about the YMCA or Parks and Recreation. It is about our community, and that was the intent that it was written. My contact information is kball@ymcaofcentralky.org or (859) 885-5013 ext. 104.
Keith Ball, Jessamine County Resident, Jessamine County YMCA
Are there other solutions to the park problem?
To the editor,
I would like to comment on the article in last week's paper about the park behind our homes. When we decided to buy in Squire Lake subdivision we were told there would be a park put in, and we chose our piece of property based on where the park was going to be. At that time, our son was 2 years old and we were very excited to have a place for him to go and be around other children. We even had a rear gate installed in our fence in order to have easy access to the park. I realize some people are having issues with the teenagers being at the park after dark and I understand their concerns, but can't we try to resolve the problem first before taking away something the younger children enjoy? Why should a few problems ruin it for the rest of us? Maybe we could have increased police drive-bys after dark to patrol the area for a while.
I have been to the park four separate times since they put it in and have cleaned the graffiti off the equipment twice, and untangled the swings twice but I'm not complaining. I will continue to do this for my child to have a fun, safe place to play. How far will you go for your children and future leaders of our great country? They need our guidance more then ever and the freedom our country still has so far.
Elaina Sewell, Nicholasville
Avoid underage drinking
To the editor,
It's spring and we're entering a season of celebration for senior students and their friends. Although this seems like the end of an era, it is really the beginning of many celebrations of life and accomplishment for your children and Jessamine County students.
The Nicholasville Police Department fervently hopes that this season is safe for all of our young people. We are asking that you be especially vigilant about how and where your senior is celebrating. Despite the presence of alcohol related parties, most families are able to honor their senior's graduation successfully without introducing champagne or other alcoholic beverage into the mix. Among other approaches, keeping parties small allows the parent host to be in control of the event. Communicating expectations with other parents and our youth is also important. When everyone is able to fully participate, events of celebration become special memories for our seniors and the entire community.
Your teen needs you now just as much as ever. Reinforce your expectations - drinking and driving is against the law.
As members of this community, we are asking you to help create a climate of celebration that is safe and memorable, ensuring future happiness for our seniors and their friends. Congratulations to you and your seniors. Thank you for all you have done and will do for our community and its young people. We would also like to encourage all business leaders to come together to sponsor this year's Project Graduation.
None of us want to see this time of celebration end tragically. Your support of this event allows our graduates to celebrate in a chemical free environment, one more time prior to embarking on a journey into their future.
Barry Waldrop, Nicholasville Chief of Police
