The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Dear Editor:
34VOICES is a student-led campaign to improve the safety conditions on Highway 34. This crusade began last May after a tragic accident resulting in the death of Melissa, a wife and mother.
In memory of Melissa's life, 34VOICES is planning a memorial service for May 5, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. The public is invited to attend this event, which will be held at West Central High School.
In the year since Melissa's death, no progress has been made by our state government to make Highway 34 a four lane. Why has nothing changed? How many more fatal accidents must occur before our government is spurred into action?
We feel that our government should look after the interests and safety of its citizens instead of looking the other way.
The condition of Highway 34 is an important issue that should not be disregarded.
In an effort to bring this concern to the forefront in our government, 34VOICES is leading a petition drive that will be held the morning of Saturday, April 26, in Henderson County.
We will be asking eligible voters to sign for our cause. This will be instrumental in showing our local leaders that the citizens of Henderson and Warren County really care.
Members of 34VOICES have traveled throughout the Bi-County area meeting with legislators, commerce members, and various clubs and organizations in order to gain their support for our ultimate goal of expanding U.S. Highway 34 to four lanes.
34VOICES hope to have a lobbying trip to Springfield and Washington, D.C.
The purpose of our trip would be to get the attention of our legislators to remedy the danger of our highway.
We are dissatisfied with the way that our legislators have dealt with the issue at hand.
They need to take notice of the importance of our citizens's safety. If we get the petition and funding for this cause, it will be the first stepping stone to a better, safer road.
If you are interested in our cause, please do your part to help further our project. The more people who get involved, the faster our project will make a difference.
For more information, contact the school at (309)627-2377. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Lauren E. Gerst, Historian
34VOICES