Learning to read, with United Way’s help
“Can’t” never could do anything. But if you grab an eraser and remove the “t,” anything is possible.
For the past 37 years the Rowan County Literacy Council has erased those “ts” and helped members of our community achieve better lives for themselves and their families.
For example:

• One student wanted to learn to read so he could get a better job. He did and the promotion happened;
• Another recently was asked to assume more responsibilities in his church. He says without the Rowan County Literacy Council’s help, this would not have happened.
• A third needed to learn the language of her adopted country so she could explain the symptoms of her illness to her doctor. It has made a difference in accurately describing what was wrong, and more importantly, her treatments.
• Still another’s dream was to become a United States citizen. That too has happened.
In 2012, 57 dedicated volunteers changed these “can’ts” into “cans” every day, meeting with students weekly, and helping them to not only learn to read, but also to learn basic life skills such as completing employment applications, managing their finances and choosing healthful foods at the grocery store.
But as inspiring as these stories are, as an entirely volunteer organization, the Literacy Council counts on the financial support of the United Way to help. This caring community’s ongoing contributions to United Way allow the organization to provide the assistance this agency needs to purchase books and materials for more than 90 students.
With the combined help of our volunteers and the United Way, “can’t” is no longer in our students’ vocabularies.
— Phyllis A. Martin

Salisbury

Phyllis Martin is president of the Rowan County Literacy Council, a United Way agency.

Another terrific season

The end of summer is almost here, and Rowan County fans have memories of another successful American Legion baseball season. The program has a long track record of success in our community and would not be possible if not for the commitment of our players and their families, the coaching staff, our fans and volunteers.
The Legionnaires want to thank everyone involved in making this program one of the best in the state. We enjoy great support from our two local radio stations and sponsors. Representatives from the Salisbury Fire Department are present at all home games looking after the safety of everyone at the ballpark; our concessions are outstanding; and all teams enjoy the history and nostalgia of Newman Park.
We also want to thank our public address announcer, Jeff Vail, for his faithful and dedicated service over the last several years. Jeff has done a tremendous job announcing the games and keeping our fans informed about the game, the players and the team’s schedule, while entertaining the crowd at every home game with music and commentary. Those who have traveled to other baseball parks know what a great service he provides.
Thanks to all for your continued support, attendance and interest in this great program. We are proud to be a part of such an outstanding tradition.
On behalf of the Rowan County American Legion Baseball Committee:
— Voight Basinger

Salisbury

Voight Basinger is athletic director for Rowan County American Legion Baseball.
Fitting honor for Corry

I was so happy to see the article in last Sunday’s paper regarding Levonia Corry’s induction into the Women of Achievement’s Hall of Fame. I was fortunate to have Ms. Corry as a teacher at West Rowan in the early ’70s. She taught me typing. She was a wonderful teacher, but the thing I recall most about her is she taught diversity before anyone knew what it was. She respected her students, and they, in turn, respected her. Her class was a joy to attend.
She has remained in contact with many of her former students over the past 40-plus years.
Her award comes as no surprise to those who know her. I think it was probably long overdue.
Congratulations, Ms Corry, from the Class of ’71!
— Cathy Faucette

Salisbury

Correction
Because of an editing error, the Monday “My Turn” by Victor Farrah contained an incorrect figure for the national debt. The article as submitted said “we have debt approaching $16 trillion, and it is still growing.”