How come?

After some weeks of horrible events, the worst of them was reported on September 30. It came to the nation's attention that a nine-month-old baby boy was sodomised by an adult male to be mentally challenged. Why are the people we trust so much hurting us?

Mentally challenged or not, adults should always be protecting us, rescuing us from danger, watching over us like our personal guardian angels. Why is this happening?

Girls, please take care of yourselves. Don't stray from your route home. Don't take rides from strangers. If possible, walk in groups to protect yourselves from anyone who can suddenly appear and try to kidnap you. At the rate at which standards are deteriorating, all we can do is prepare for the horrific times ahead, and wonder, how come?

- Toni-Ann Mundle, Immaculate Conception High School for Girls

Thanks to Bouygues

I feel compelled do join with all those who have seen fit to say a big thank you to Bouygues, the French construction company, for their generosity of spirit displayed in repairing the Bog Walk gorge.

We know that the Government has already expressed their gratitude, but we, the people, would like to add our quota of thanks too. This also goes to other organisations that have helped to alleviate the suffering and inconvenience caused by the magnitude of the damage.

- Patricia Powell, Southfield PO

Helping the elderly

The Highgate post office in St Mary has about 10 steps leading up into the building, but no handrails to accommodate senior citizens or persons with physical disability, who have to climb these steps daily. I have seen many stumble and have to be saved from falling and possible serious injury by helping hands.

Despite having published three letters in The Gleaner and making requests via radio talk shows, the authorities have not responded and taken action to erect the handrails. In addition, it would be a thoughtful gesture to put a bench inside the post office for senior citizens to rest while waiting to be served.

- Margaret Williams, Highgate PO Box 81, St Mary

Arnold allen

My name is Angelina Smith, otherwise known as Ena Allen. I'm age 57. I have lost contact with a brother, Arnold Allen, who is from Burkes Mountain in St James. I heard that he was living in the United States but I don't know his address.

He once lived at the same address as my father, Hubert Allen, whom I have heard is now dead.

I have other brothers and sisters by my father, but I don't remember their names. The only sister I remember is Perline Allen, who once had a business at 63 Barnett Street, in Montego Bay, but I lost contact with her from the 1960s.

My mother's name is Eileen Trought. My phone number is 367-0371. I would like to make contact with my brother Arnold.

- Ena Allen, PO Box 764, GPO, Kingston