WRTA helps those who are trying to help themselves

WRTA helps those who are trying to help themselves

EDITOR:

The Aug. 25 letter supporting the WRTA sales tax levy, written by the special needs teacher from Hayes Middle School, was much needed.

The letter was about her special needs students who rely on WRTA for transportation to various places where they learn daily living and life skills.

These students are yet another reason why voting yes for the WRTA levy is vital.

WRTA is much needed. It not only operates in Youngstown but also in areas of Boardman, Poland, and until recently, Austintown.

It provides necessary, daily transportation for those who don’t have cars, can’t drive, or can’t afford gas due to the high prices.

For many citizens, it is their only means to get to work, medical appointments, stores, etc.

In addition to the buses, WRTA has a service available to senior citizens and citizens with disabilities called Special Service Transportation, (SST).

SST, is a small van, curb-to-curb service. It provides its riders with necessary transportation, allowing them to meet their daily needs.

My grandmother tells me of a time when neighbors cared for neighbors, and you helped your fellow man.

When you go to the polls on Nov. 4, think about the special needs students at Hayes Middle School; remember the people who rely on WRTA to get to work, just to provide for their families; keep in mind the senior citizens and citizens with disabilities who use the SST service.

WRTA is asking the citizens of Mahoning County to pass a sales tax levy. A tax that is only one-fourth of one percent.

When you cast your ballot on Nov. 4 remember your fellow man. Vote yes for the WRTA sales tax levy.

JAYCI HIMES

Youngstown

Support the veterans

EDITOR:

We need to compensate and honor our nation’s veterans for their service. President Bush who claims he supports veterans has actually cut those benefits for veterans. You saw the terrible conditions at Walter Reed and other facilities.

The new Democratic Congress has passed legislation to increase funding on veterans’ programs by $3.4 billion. This is in response to the many returning from the war in Iraq. Post traumatic stress disorder counseling, research, brain injuries all need to be addressed for our current veterans. For our older veterans, the clinics and hospitals available are shrinking and they are having trouble receiving care.

America can do better for our veterans, support Barack Obama and a Democratic Congress and we will be there for our veterans.

ANNA BIGGINS

McDonald