Dear Editor,

I read Mr. David Krest’s letter regarding Madelyn Toogood. I am so appalled by the statement Mr. Krest made that after reflecting on her situation, “… more likely than not we have all abused one another mentally and most likely physically, especially our own children.”

I beg to differ with you sir, but more than likely most of us have not “abused one another mentally and most likely physically, especially our own children.” I have no idea the community you grew up in, household, schools, etc. but I can tell you this, after reading your letter, I also reflected on your letter just as you did on the Toogood situation and I cannot help but feel that you, Mr. Krest, owe your children and the parents of this community trying to raise our children to be decent citizens, with people such as yourself as our neighbors, a huge apology.

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You sound like her defense attorney or my mother. I would hope most citizens agree that no child belongs with that kind of mother and instead of making excuses Mrs. Toogood and her lawyer need to own up to her actions and take responsibility. Lucky for you Mr. Krest, your children grew up without a surveillance camera. Perhaps not so lucky for your children?

Sincerely,

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Barbara Arrowood

Battlement Mesa

Dear Editor,

I recently read Mr. Krest’s article regarding Madelyn Toogood. The caption of his article was, “Look at yourself before judging others.” Clearly, after looking at myself and “reflecting” on what kind of person I am, I thought , WOW! How could anyone who supposedly says that they love their children brutally beat them, not to mention in public. I understand that you should punish your kids when they truly did something wrong. But wait, what exactly did Mrs. Toogood’s daughter do wrong that was so horrible? I think that’s a question we all need to answer. Parents have no right at all, AT ALL, to take their anger out on their 4-year-old children, or children of any age. If people like Mrs. Toogood continue to beat or even hit their children repeatedly, children will never know the true meaning of right and wrong. I believe that parents should be disciplinarians to their kids but not cruel!

Sincerely,

Nicole Arrowood,

age 13,

Battlement Mesa

Dear Editor,

As I drive upvalley, I have noticed on several occasions people picking up trash along Highway 82. Giving up their Saturday or Sunday mornings to pick up other people’s messes (shame on you!). I want to say thanks. It makes a difference, and so do you!

Thanks,

Scott Zerfoss

Glenwood Springs