After World War II, victorious American warriors returned home to pick up where they had left off. Visionaries around and about Carmichaels recognized the need for a public library as Ben Franklin had more than 200 years earlier for Philadelphia. Legend has it that the initial book collection was stacked neatly in a single closet. With more determination than money the library staff increased the collection until it filled the room. Years later the library relocated to the basement of a bank and later to rooms on an upper floor. Subsequently the library moved into a house that was remodeled and rooms were added. The second floor was converted to an apartment where the librarian lived.
The library collection continued to grow beyond the building's capacity including the upstairs apartment. To no avail extensive concerted effort was made toward acquiring a sorely needed new proper library building. All came to naught because of the old bugaboo: No money. In times of either privation or prosperity it has always been the same: No money.
The library patrons of eastern Greene County need a 21st century, state-of-the-art library complete with an auditorium to accommodate cultural, educational and civic programs.
My appeal is made directly to Gov. Rendell, Senator Stout and Rep. DeWeese. To warrant the needed attention and action the appeal needs to come from higher spheres of influence possessed by steering committees and shareholders. Ben Franklin called it "The Junta."
An important sphere of influence for this library appeal is the board of Flenniken Public Library directors. Without support by the board any effort is hopeless.
Paul Lagojda
CumberlandTownship
A pitiful sight
for Flag Day
I had a good cry on my way home from church Sunday. This being Flag Day we had a beautiful and touching service honoring our flag and country.
I drove past a house in deplorable condition and there on the roof was what was once a beautiful flag but it made my heart ache to see that dirty tattered piece of cloth that once was our beautiful flag.
The house was recently vacated but how could anyone call themselves an American and leave our flag to be there like that on Flag Day.
It is sometimes called Old Glory and I guess whoever left it there thought that's what it is - old. It didn't matter to him, but it did to me.
Lois Parker
Washington
Paulsen should
respect rhubarb
I read Scott Paulsen's column (June 11) condemning rhubarb and am deeply offended. For my money, there is no delicacy more delicious than a piece of good rhubarb pie. Add strawberries and you've already ruined it. (Rhubarb sauce is another fine dessert!)
I'm wondering if Mr. Paulsen's taste buds have atrophied? Anyone who can't appreciate rhubarb must have some severe lack of judgement about desserts. Sorry you're missing the joy of rhubarb, Scott!
Give me a piece of good rhubarb pie anytime! Yummy!
Margie M. Frank
Washington