LETTERS: Thanks to those who helped with Stand Down

Palm Coast Observer
News

Thanks to all who helped with Homeless Stand Down

Dear Editor:
A sincere thank you goes out to all the Flagler County businesses, organizations, church groups and citizens for their help with the first VFW-sponsored Flagler County Stand Down for Homeless and At-risk Veterans.

The event was held on Saturday, March 29, at the Palm Coast VFW, 47 Old Kings Road. The items collected, donated and purchased went a long way to help these individuals. The attendees received clothing, food and personal care items to take with them. They were also provided breakfast and lunch onsite. Various government agencies were represented and provided appropriate information and assistance.

A huge thank you to all the volunteers who donated hours of work and service to coordinate this event. On behalf of the VFW, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to everyone involved.

Cathie Nacci
Stand Down Committee Chairperson
VFW Post 8696
Palm Coast

April Fool’s mea culpa column was insincere

Dear Editor:
Your mea culpa about the April Fool’s Day issue of the Observer actually had a ring of sincerity about it until I got to the part that read, "And yet, there has to be some responsibility put on the readers themselves." Oh! Why is that? Because "too many people didn't turn the page," you said.

I didn't know that jokes came with instructions. When a pratfall doesn't get laughs, don't blame the audience. They are the people you are trying to please. Nobody appreciates being duped by a newspaper, especially one's own hometown journal. Being believable is the tacit commitment you make to us, and we have every right to expect it. If we're seeking humor, there's always MAD magazine and the Sunday comic strips.

Victor Washkevich
Palm Coast

Flagler women’s group supports Paycheck Fairness Act

Dear Editor:
Celebration of Equal Pay Day, Tuesday, April 8, reminds us that there is no higher priority for the American public than rebuilding the economy and creating jobs; working toward pay equity is a critical step in that direction.

In fact, 84% of voters support “a new law that would provide women more tools to get fair pay in the workplace.” Women represent half of the paid workforce and two-thirds of women are either the primary or co-breadwinner for their families. In other words, pay equity is not just a moral issue. It is an economic imperative with enormous implications not only for women but for working families, communities and the nation’s recovery. In this economic climate, Congress cannot ignore such a critical issue.

On behalf of the 150,000 bipartisan members and supporters of the American Association of University Women, I urge U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and Sen. Marco Rubio to support and cosponsor the Paycheck Fairness Act and U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis to support HB 377. Passage of a Paycheck Fairness Act in both houses will take meaningful steps to create incentives for employers to follow the law and empower women to negotiate for equal pay.

Mary Ann Clark
Public Policy Chairwoman
Flagler County Branch, AAUW