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Let's set the record straight on poultry litter and water records

In his June 22 commentary "A diminishing quality of water," John Eby criticized a program sponsored by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Virginia Poultry Federation. We share some of the cost to transport poultry litter to areas where it is needed for crop production and away from areas where there is a surplus that can affect water quality.

Unfortunately, Eby was not accurate in his characterization of the program. Eby stated, "there is no record as to where this manure goes." In fact, all litter transports that are cost-shared under the program are documented and records are kept so that DCR and VPF are aware of both the quantities and their destination.

Eby also says, "no record exists as to the quantity of application to farmland or its proximity to stream banks, where it could wash into creeks and rivers." In fact, in order to receive poultry litter through this program, a landowner must have an approved nutrient management plan in place. These plans detail the amount and timing of application, and the specific locations where poultry litter, manures or other fertilizers can be used so as to promote crop growth and protect water quality.

Deputy Director

Department of Conservation and Recreation

Vote for someone, for someone will win

I read with interest, irritation, then complete fury the letter from Jim Risley of Moneta concerning Sen. Barack Obama's "snake oil," ("Don't buy Obama's snake oil," June 28 letter).

I often recall my parents' words concerning voicing your opinion on the governing of our country. "We are the governing voice. We have the right to choose our leaders. If we don't use our God-given right to vote, then we have no right whatsoever to criticize what is done on our behalf."

I suspect Risley is one of those. He sits back and enjoys the benefits of living in this wonderful, free country without making the hard decisions on who should lead.

Our system isn't perfect. Of course we have politicians from whom to choose. Are they all above reproach? Certainly not, but if we don't make the difficult decisions and vote, we give up the right to complain about the direction of our country. For heaven's sake, vote.

Obama is capable of changing his mind

I've heard several derogatory remarks about Sen. Barack Obama changing his mind. I don't consider that a fault. I'd much rather hear a man -- or a woman -- say, "After careful study and consideration of the topic, I've changed my mind," rather than, "I've made up my mind, so don't give me any facts."

We've had several years of that kind of thinking and it hasn't proved to be a smart way to handle some important decisions.

Honor Old Glory and all it represents

I believe everyone living in this nation should know the facts about our flag. Its colors have a meaning, as do the stars and the number of stripes. Each time the flag is folded or tucked at a military funeral, it has significance.

When I take a moment to look at a flag, in my mind's eye I see an endless parade of faces with all types of uniforms on and a wide array of ages.

The famous Joe Rosenthal picture of Iwo Jima shows six men raising the flag. The fact is that nearly 7,000 individuals lost their lives to get that flag high on that mountaintop, while many more were injured.

On a night only a few days after our local Kroger replaced its oversized American flag, the sun started to fade, the wind blew lightly and I heard a snap of fabric. When I looked up, it was an amazing sight, Old Glory waving in the sun with a backdrop of the mountains.

As you celebrate this July 4, remember, behind that piece of fabric are the faces of every individual who has ever stood in defense of the United States. Thank you, veterans.

Latter-day Saints build strong families

A strong and clear reply to Daniel Malore's article ("The fundamentalist population bomb," June 26 commentary):

As a proud wife and mother of six children and a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, let me make it perfectly clear that Malore doesn't need to be sad for me.

I had my children because I wanted them, not because I was commanded. I am not on welfare, I don't get food stamps and I don't expect anyone else to educate, protect and care for my children.

We, "the over-breeding Mormons," as Malore refers to us, promote the strength and sacred foundation of families, as well as the rules of self-reliance and thrifty living. Our families are active in communities, raising our children to serve and be involved in what is praiseworthy.

Our sex lives are none of Malore's business, however I would tell him that we don't believe that sex is just for procreation to produce children for God's work, but also for intimate recreation between a legally married husband and wife.

If Malore is so worried about the world being overpopulated by the fundamentalists, then by all means, he should get himself neutered.