Being uninsured means going without care when it is needed. It means minor illnesses become major ones because care is delayed. It means one significant medical expense can wipe out a family's entire bank account. It means absolutely no access to care in some situations.
We are very fortunate to live in a community where there is an option for our uninsured citizens - that option is the Community Free Clinic. Replicating every facet of a primary care facility, the Community Free Clinic is the safety net for the uninsured in our community. As the number of people without health insurance increases, the number of patients the Community Free Clinic serves is increasing. In 2006, the demand for our services far exceeded what we could provide. The clinic was forced to close its doors to new patients for a six-month period. We do not want to be forced to do that again in 2008.
We need your financial support. You can make a difference in someone's life by helping the clinic serve the uninsured. Your tax-deductible contribution will ensure that no uninsured patient in Washington County has to choose between their health and other expenses. You can now donate online at www.cfcwc.com. Please help us to serve our community and keep Washington County healthy.
Robin E. Roberson
Executive Director
Community Free Clinic
Steerman deserves support for sheriff
To the editor:
I retired after 27 years as captain of the Criminal Investigation Division, Berkeley County, W.Va., Sheriff's Department. I am proud to have served Berkeley County and served with many very dedicated and honorable people who are dear to me.
Under civil service, I was precluded from endorsing who I know would best lead the department.
I am still in law enforcement and keep in touch with many of my former co-workers. I have concerns for their future and the future of the department.
Because of this I endorse and ask you, the citizenry of Berkeley County, to please support Retired Capt. Richard L. "Dick" Steerman for Sheriff of Berkeley County in the May primary election.
I was privileged to serve with Dick Steerman the majority of my career in law enforcement. I will only endorse someone dedicated, professional and honest, both in life and to the profession of law enforcement.
Steerman will begin to improve the department Day One to serve the public and to improve the working conditions of the dedicated employees who serve to protect Berkeley County daily.
Steerman is fair, open minded, impartial, hard-working and will make the tough decisions after careful consideration. He will improve the current issues in employee morale, communications with other county departments and organizations.
Deputies are prohibited from endorsing candidates but many I know would agree with me on this. Please exercise your right to vote and vote Richard L. Steerman for Sheriff of Berkeley County.
Captain K.C. Bohrer
Berkeley County
Sheriff's Department (retired)
Berkeley Springs, W.Va.
