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Highlands Today

U.S. 27 Solutions

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Paul Johnson

Published: January 21, 2009

I was approaching the intersection on U.S. 27, where Wal-Mart is located, driving south. As I got closer to the stoplight I noticed people with orange vests on, circulating throughout stopped traffic (including me) with large white buckets that have signs attached to them.

These folks are soliciting for contributions to their cause. I asked the young lady that approached my vehicle what organization she was representing, she asked me what I meant. I re-phrased my question and asked her where the money was going. She had to look at the sign on the bucket and then told me "New Life Ministries." I then asked where it was located, if it was local or out of our area. She then stated: "I think it's about four or five miles up the road."

I don't know about the other folks here in Highlands County but for me, it doesn't take long before I smell a scam when one exists. That's my personal opinion, of course. I have seen this activity taking place at this intersection on several previous occasions and have always wondered about it. I have no problem donating to a worthwhile cause; however, I feel that this one in particular is far from worthwhile. The last group I inquired about was (they said) from Birmingham, Ala.

I feel that a county ordinance needs to be passed that permits Highlands County organizations to solicit in this manner. There could be exceptions such as verifiable state and national organizations. In addition, whoever chooses to collect donations in this manner must be required to get approval through a specified department, located at the county government building prior to being allowed to solicit. Orange vests or no orange vests, this manner of collecting donations are an accident waiting to happen, with people weaving and dodging in and out of traffic.

I implore the county commissioners to take a good hard look at this activity and take some positive actions, outlining the proper, legitimate and safe way for this type of business to be conducted within our county.

Paul Johnson
Sebring

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