No alternative to power of coal
In this Christmas season, I remind each reader that electricity made from coal is the most economical of any other power source in this part of the country. In all probability, your electricity is produced from coal. The twinkling of the lights on your Christmas tree, house decorations and yard ornaments shine as a result of coal being burned at a power generating plant.
Even so, the current administration in Washington would like to stop all use of coal. Government regulators are “sitting” on environmentally sound mining permit applications, forcing some mine operators to send people home. Coal mining is needed now as much as ever, as there is no alternative energy source in place to meet the demand for electricity now being produced from coal.
The FACES of Coal (Federation for American Coal, Energy and Security) organization was recently formed to educate and rally all walks of people around coal and coal mining (www.facesofcoal.org/). As a member of FACES, I urge everyone to visit its Website, review the information presented there, and consider becoming a member. Join us today and keep your Christmas lights shining brightly — with coal.
John F. Enyart, Ashland
Some ways to help military families
During the holidays, national attention often turns to supporting our military men and women serving in foreign lands. But let’s not forget our soldiers’ families still at home. The recent decision to send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan leaves thousands of families facing New Year deployments, as everyday Americans search for ways to help military families separated by war.
Here are some ways ordinary citizens can help ease the burden and stress of deployment and separation through the non-profit National Military Family Association.
‰Connect and invite. Often, people in civilian families hesitate to reach out to a military family. Reach out to military families and invite them to coffee or dinner.
‰Ask military families what you can do to help. Military families are strong, healthy and determined. They're also stressed by multiple deployments and the strain of extended absences. A simple offer of help can mean so much. If you know someone connected to a soldier, offer to help during this holiday season. Don't be surprised when your offer is accepted.
‰Lend an ear. Deployments are especially difficult on teenagers. Military teens shoulder a lot of additional responsibilities and are faced with some strong emotions at a pivotal time in their lives. Listen to what they have to say and be a role model. Share your gifts and joyous holiday spirit.
‰Encourage! Although service can be tough, military families are proud of the difference they make. During the holidays more than ever, encourage our military families with gratitude and camaraderie.
‰Learn more about the people protecting your freedoms. On the Website of the National Military Family Association — www.MilitaryFamily.org — there’s a link to a new study on military children from the RAND Corporation and many resources regarding military families.
Joyce Raezer , Executive Director, National Military Family Association, Alexandria, Va.
