May 2015 Web Final

The Albemarle Tradewinds
merges your business into
printed and social media.
A retired educator and veteran, Cooke
has become an advocate for renewed patriotism,
and a critic of poverty in our
region. “If many politicians have become
more the problem than the solution,”
states Cooke, “then good people
are encouraged to speak-up, step-up,
and fix the mess.”
Why Seniors Need To Drive
by C.L. Cooke
I once followed an elderly lady to a local bank. She had just driven across Ehringhaus Street from Golden Corral to the PNC parking lot. She did not
realize that she almost caused three separate accidents during that short trip. Two vehicles hit the brakes to avoid collision, and one swerved onto the curb as she
was about to broadside the moving vehicle. I told her what had just occurred. I told her I was aware that she did not know the sequence of potential
accidents that could have caused numerous injuries or deaths. When I looked her in the eyes and said I was considering taking her tag number to the local
police, she looked so surprised. Then I stated that her drivers permit might be revoked and she replied, “That would be terrible.” After pondering, I decided it
would be terrible for her to lose her license because of me. Maybe it would be best if a close family member initiated that decision: one closer to her, one who
knows she should no longer drive…one who would run errands for her, and take her to lunch, or pay bills, or shop for presents for her beloved children and
grandchildren. After all it should be our responsibility to care for our seniors and make their last years as memorable and comfortable as possible.
So, I ask you this. Seniors whom you know are an accident waiting to happen, could you please do the right thing and avoid the critical accident waiting to
happen. Get the family involved. For the rest of us who might not be that far gone, but our sight is not what it was, our reflexes have slowed, but we need to be
on the road…give us a break.
We are out there buying gifts for you and the kids. We are spending money, paying bills, and are still an important economic engine because our generation
worked hard, saved, have our retirement and are spending it. Heck, if you took us off the road, the economy might go flatter than a pancake. So, instead of
motioning to us as number one with your middle finger, mean it and use the first finger next to your thumb. Be on the lookout for us, anticipate our
inadequacies and help us continue to help you.
When you see us at the Potato Festival, say Hi and give us a hug…then offer us a ride home! Comments? E-Mail to br549@modernmedianow.com
20 Albemarle Tradewinds May 2015 albemarletradewinds.com