No change, no levy support

No change, no levy support

I have voted for every school levy, no matter where I have lived in this country, no matter who has been president of the United States. That said, I now am most likely, going to vote against the Poland school levy.

Why is that? I have nothing against the teachers, community or more importantly, the children of Poland. I love my community. This decision breaks my heart. My concern is the outcome of the presidential election and the costly repercussions if Obama is re-elected. I am a hard working, responsible taxpayer, close to retirement. I have worked since I have been 15 years old, putting myself through college against the odds dealt to me. I have been through many hardships that only inspired me to succeed and help others voluntarily.

The state of our current economy is of a huge concern for me. I cannot commit to any more taxes until I know the outcome of this election. I have no confidence in the current federal administration. A change to leadership needs to take place before I vote for another school levy. I just cannot afford the financial risk.

Barbara Montgomery, Poland

Treating all with respect is key

As a member of NAMI, the Na- tional Alliance of Mentally Ill advocacy group, I recognize how important it is to integrate those who are mentally challenged into mainstream society via productive employment and other social avenues.

A person I know who is mentally challenged signed up recently to volunteer to work on the campaign at a local politician who is running for office. This person is living on disability, a fixed income. After distributing many signs and other items, (at his own expense), he was told he was a “pain” and let go. Maybe he was not quick enough. Who knows? I do know he was dealt another blow by society. As long as these antiquated attitudes prevail, the disabled can make very little progress.

A politician who is educated to run for office should be educated in other areas, matters or at least care about them, or be aware.

It’s a matter of taking the side of the weak against the strong, something the best of people have always done.

Darlene Mollica, Boardman