This letter is in response to Robbin Rector’s letter that appeared in the Feb. 17, 2010, edition of the Wetzel Chronicle.

Constructive criticism is always welcomed, but trying to embarrass the members of the Wetzel County Action Group is not. They spend countless hours and their own money, trying to accumulate enough information (yes, pictures) to convince our state and local officials to improve the condition of the roads and the traffic flow on Routes 89, Brock Ridge, Route 7, Doolin Run Road, and Friendship Ridge so that all travelers remain alive and safe so they can earn a living and support their families.

We learned first hand how destructive the logging industry can be after we moved here in the early 1970’s. We have taken steps to protect our property and have corresponded with the proper authorities regarding the damage the logging industry creates statewide.

The drug problem in Wetzel County as in our state and the nation is rampant. My husband and I have become involved with the Citizens Against Prescription Drug Abuse. Members Chuck and Arlene have started Nar-Anon meetings, we commend their efforts.

Members of the Wetzel County Action Group have helped their neighbors during the recent snow storms by responding to emergency calls, plowing their driveways, and personally checking on those that are not in the best of health.These same members are also involved with other organizations (The Solid Waste Authority, Wetzel County Hospital Board, Deb’s Gang of Hope, Nar-Anon, etc.) that work to improve the well being of Wetzel County citizens.

Both my husband and I believe in working to better our community.We served as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in the early 1970’s and my husband is a volunteer fireman, an EMS driver and aid, and has trained to be an EMT again.I am a charter member of the Wetzel County Humane Society and helped to establish the Wetzel County Animal Shelter. I have served on the board of directors of the Family Violence Prevention Program for the Wheeling YWCA.I am a member of the League of Women Voters and served as president of the local chapter for nearly 20 years and currently serve as treasurer to the state League.Both my husband and I serve on the Wetzel Community Advisory Panel, a forum for open communication between representatives of Chesapeake Energy and the surrounding community. If we work together, problems can be solved.

Margie Renaud

New Martinsville