Forgive and forget the alleged embezzlement
The Breakabeen Presbyterian Church has recently suffered a painful blow. The alleged embezzlement of our entire savings account over a three-year period has left in its wake a stronger, more-unified congregation.
Through the heartbreak and tears, our dependence on a now-non-existent savings account has required us to become even more dependent on God.
Questions have since arisen as to how this could go unnoticed and why such a small congregation has so much money. A concerned citizen defends the alleged actions of our treasurer saying she is "a good person" and did "good things" with the money.
Our church is a "good" church. Our members have increased their contributions despite the fact that some lost homes or were directly affected by the flood. Others are unemployed, struggling in this rough economy, or already giving more than their fair share.
The generosity is to ensure that the ministries we support like A Heart for Haiti Mission, the local food pantry, people providing relief to flood victims and various other mission programs remain able to do their work.
Just keeping enough fuel in the tank to allow us to meet on Sundays has become a challenge. The sacrifices of everyone, especially our pastor, make me thankful to be part of this church.
I hold no grudge against the treasurer and have forgiven her as God has forgiven me. My heart is deeply saddened to see the most amazing group of people I know be represented in any light but one that reflects the character of a people that have come together to heal our church and reach out, forgive and love the individual allegedly responsible for this situation.
Kimberly Logue
Stamford
Stores need to follow JCPenney's example
The other day while shopping for groceries, my bill seemed like it was about $20 higher than it used to be. I do not do major grocery shopping very often. The clerk told me I saved $11.68, plus I had earned up to 80 cents off a gallon of gas. I guess if I didn't have the card, the clerk would have said: "Thanks for shopping with us, and we over charged you $11.68."
Afterwards, I went to the gas station to fill my tank and retrieve the $20 I was overcharged.
It occurred to me that because I drive a lot, I had a real advantage card, while others who either do not own an automobile or drove less are shopping with a disadvantage card at this same merchant.
I have 22 bonus, rewards, rewards plus, VIP and club type cards on a key chain in my car. What a waste of time and energy to try and keep track of this mess.
It was reported recently in The New York Times and also The Daily Star that JCPenney was going to stop its practice of "fake-pricing" (inflated prices followed by steep discounts) and offer "everyday low prices."
Maybe it is time that other retail stores follow the example of JCPenney. It might even speed up the check out lines!
Orlo Burch
Hartwick
