Letters to the editor: County losing valuable resource

While it is commendable that Clovis Community College is willing to support the literacy council (March 23 article in CNJ), the loss of the Curry County Literacy Council's one-to-one tutoring program will have a negative impact on the low-level readers in Curry County, where the demonstrated need is so great.

We trained and certified their professional volunteer tutors to work one-to-one with low-level adult literacy students. They did not receive training to work in the classroom, and this population can't learn to read in a classroom setting. That's why we were founded almost 24 years ago — to meet an unmet need. I do hope that something can be done to allow for one-to-one services to continue.

Though our funding was reduced for fiscal year 2012, the legislators did their best in light of many difficult circumstances. Despite budget cuts, we will continue to support this marginalized and hard to serve population in need — adults who read at or below the sixth-grade level. In fact, statewide our cost per student is only $175 compared to ABE's average of $267, but we do serve different populations.

Please rest assured that services were not and are not duplicated. Therefore, how will these students' needs be met?

We wish you the very best and much luck as you work to serve the adults in need of literacy, basic education, and higher education in Curry County.

We will continue to do our part, too.

Heather Heunermund

Executive director New Mexico Coalition for Literacy

Chivalry isn't dead, just hard to find

On my way home Thursday, I got a flat tire. Having pulled over and gotten all my "tire tools" out, I was ready to get dirty.

See, my daddy taught me how to change a tire and I'm proud I know how, so, thank you daddy.

Just I was getting on the ground, two gentlemen pulled up and offered assistance. Bo, from Georgia, and his father-in-law Byrum, from Clovis, asked if I needed help. I said, "well, I know how and can, but you've got better shoes on." I was wearing flip flops, not the best shoe for a tire change.

In just a few short minutes, my tire was changed, hands were shook, and many thanks were given.

I just wanted to let everyone know out there that chivalry isn't dead. Albeit it's rare, but it's sure nice to know it's still out there.

Thanks again for your help, gentlemen, and know that it was appreciated.

Jennifer D. Brandon

Clovis