A treasure lost near Hubbard

A treasure lost near Hubbard

EDITOR:

I am saddened that the wonderful World War II Museum and Learning Center near Hubbard has closed. This world class museum was one of a kind and the treasure and work of the late Henry Venetta. For all those fortunate enough to have toured the museum, it was a truly memorable experience. Many people came to visit from every point in the country.

Henry used to say that the school children always asked the best questions. It is too bad that others will never have the opportunity to visit this attraction in the Valley in the future.

CAROL GORDON

Warren

X The writer is the former director of the Trumbull County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

On man’s memories of Don

EDITOR:

The Valley has lost a towering political figure, brilliant lawyer and wonderful man with the death of Don L. Hanni Jr. When I first moved to the area 30 years ago, he was in his prime, just starting his tenure as the chairman of the Mahoning County Democratic Party. What most surprised me, after I got to know him, was how different he was from the general public’s perception of him. I recall how he was vilified by some in the community. From a distance, it was easy to accept that caricature of a gruff, win-at-all costs political boss. But what I found was a remarkably generous man who truly had the best interests of the community at heart. The time and energy he committed to his political passions are unmatched by anyone I have ever known.

As an attorney, he was absolutely the best this area had to offer. The same qualities of tenacity and passion that were the hallmark of his political endeavors were evident in the defense of his clients. I was always impressed by his ability to converse about an unbelievably wide range of topics beyond the law and politics. He was a masterful storyteller. Because it has been so many years since Mr. Hanni has been on center stage, I believe it is important that those who were not blessed to know him to understand what he gave to this area. Whether they loved him or despised him, I think everyone respected him for his abilities and commitment. I certainly know that I did. I will miss him.

TIM WAGNER

Youngstown

No evidence of a crackdown

EDITOR:

After reading about the latest controversy concerning the Youngstown Police Department, it reminded me of a situation I saw back in June.

I’m not sure of the actual date but I know it was a Saturday night about 11 p.m. I had gotten off the freeway and was heading south on South Avenue. In the area between Indianola and Marmion there were obvious prostitutes standing along the road, waving at cars and walking. Not one police car in sight. The closest car I saw was parked in the parking lot of Utopia on Midlothian. This caught my eye because I remember reading about the increased crime along the South Avenue corridor and the police’s response being an increased presence. On the night I was there though, there was absolutely no police presence.

After hearing about the AWOL patrols last month, and then reading that YPD wasn’t even investigating the matter until after the media got involved, I really have to question their sincerity. Time to put OUR money where your mouth is, guys.

DAVE ZARLENGO

Liberty