Scathing review prompts an offer you can't refuse

Scathing review promptsan offer you can't refuse
EDITOR:
I am writing in response to Milan Paurich's scathing review of the play he saw Friday night at the Oakland Theater. "Luv" was presented to our community by a hard-working group of community theater actors, tech volunteers, veteran set builders and a very busy director.
All of them give of their time and talents freely and most generously. In my opinion, the show is just as it should be -- fast-paced, silly and physically demanding. I have described this play as a stress-reliever. One of the reasons we chose "Luv" was because of it's great comedic appeal.
I am not sure what Milan Paurich expects from those here in the Valley who work hard at what is our hobby -- with a lot of passion thrown in -- but at this moment I am questioning his ability to honestly review a community theater show at all. In light of his seemingly personal attack of the playwright and the director, I am also questioning his credentials and professionalism.
Those of you who appreciate the arts in our community, come see this show for yourselves. If, in fact, you feel as Mr. Paurich did, I will personally refund your ticket money and apologize for wasting your time. Although I am convinced it is Mr. Paurich who owes the apology.
FRAN COMSTOCK, business director
Oakland Center for the Arts
Youngstown
Youngstown board needs to make changes, not seek levy
EDITOR:
If the statements from Board of Education President Michael Write and Superintendent Wendy Webb in the Nov. 8 Vindicator are to be believed, clarification is definitely needed. The superintendent's statement in the Nov. 9 paper that "we learned some things" from the failure only offers more about nothing.
The defeat of the levy states very positively two things: The voters of Youngstown did not want their taxes raised, and they were showing a no-confidence vote to the school board. A third thing is very evident: no matter how many times this levy is put on the ballot, it will be defeated. The people of Youngstown want their money spent judiciously. The board didn't do that and to continue business as usual just won't fly.
This is a good time to rethink plans for the future. Just for starters:
Set up a four year high school course that will prepare graduating students to enter the job market
Institute a dress code for K through 12th grade and make it stick
Publish and enforce rules about tardiness and absenteeism that are to apply to every student and parent in the school system
Start a music and arts program beginning with grade 2 though grade 12 involving every student
Every worthwhile endeavor has to be based on discipline: write it, print it, disseminate it and enforce it
Struthers schools came off with national honors. I'm sure they would be glad to share their knowledge and experience.
The Youngstown schools are a big job and a big challenge. They require experienced, innovative and dedicated leadership backed up by a determined board. Is it time for a change in the superintendent's office?
If the board of education is unable to "rise out of the ashes of the levy defeat" it is time for the board to step down.
I'll be very surprised if when the state comes it can't find many ways to cut the deficit.
We want good schools, we need good schools and we'll keep trying until we get good schools.
WILLIAM GRAEBING
Youngstown