Can Commissioners Get Along?
She Says, Yes

Dear Editor:

A few weeks ago, the Towanda Review ran an editorial stating that the Bradford County Commissioners should just go along to get along.

After attending the commissioners’ meetings for many weeks, the Review editor couldn’t be more wrong.

Doug McLinko is the only one of the three that wants the taxpayers of Bradford County to know how our tax dollars are being spent.

It has been reported that the bond issue for the jail addition has a Triple A rating. It does, but it costs the taxpayers $27,000 to buy the rating through an insurance policy.

Taxpayers of Bradford County, wake up. Start attending the commissioners’ meetings every Thursday at 10 a.m.

Doug McLinko, please just keep on keeping on. Some of us are listening.

Mary Snyder
Ulster

She’s Not Impressed
By Demos’ VP Choice

Editor:

I wonder how many people, like me, are pushing the mute button on the remote when the latest TV ad for John Kerry comes on?  I’m speaking of the one by John Edwards. How obnoxious. This man, who wants to be VP, stands there shouting, all the while shaking his finger at us, the voters. If he gets that out of control over a TV ad, what will he do in a real crisis?

I am a Republican, but being a little disappointed in President Bush, had considering voting Democrat. After seeing the TV ad, I can’t vote Democrat because of this man, Edwards. What to do?

We all know that when the campaign began, this man really got out of control. I’m sure that he was promised that if he dropped out of the campaign, he would be offered the VP spot on the ticket.

He was an embarrassment to his party and he still is.

I am Betty Holdren and I approve of this message.

Betty Holdren,
Laceyville

 

This Conservative
Is Not Impressed

Editor:

Watch the self-satisfying orgy in Boston this week between the “out in left field” Democrats, the “liberal” news media and “always-naked” Hollywood. Each one will be dressed as a moderate.

Be sure to vote this fall.

Dick Bennett

Future of Turnpike
School Relies on Statistics

Editor:

Often mentioned as a key to keeping the Turnpike Elementary School in Mildred is the number of children that will be around to attend classes there, beginning with kindergarten. To help the school make a decision, some work has to be done to find how many children might be entering the school system in coming years in Cherry Township, Colley Township, Dushore Borough and Lopez.

Then estimates have to be made on how many show up in the school year for the next five years, from births that have occurred in the last years. In recent years, that population decreased to 6,000, leaving those areas with fewer children to fill the classrooms.

In 1960, a group from various schools n Sullivan County met in the superintendent’s office in Dushore to reach a conclusion to settle the problem facing those areas with fewer children to fill the classroom. It was then decided by a vote, which was noted in the minutes of the meeting, that the county would merge those children from Estella, Sonestown and surrounding areas, taking in the schools with fewer pupils. Building a school in Laporte and keeping a school in Mildred, which was centrally located in the area of the population, was agreed upon. Turnpike Elementary did not need a state of the art facility. It was built to withstand a tornado and in earlier years, was used as a bomb shelter. There is no comparison in the Sullivan County School and the Turnpike School when it comes to the way the schools were constructed.

It has cost millions to renovate the Sullivan County School. Quad 3, an architectural firm from Wilkes-Barre, was hired to do a feasibility study. They reported that in order to renovate Turnpike, it would cost $3.5 million. The Department of Labor and Industry completed their study and reported that improvements needed would be a total of $4,069.92. On May 13, 2004, to replace a boiler at the Turnpike School was estimated to cost $100,000. When the bids were in, the boiler and condensate tank replacement was $38,263. These are the figures we go by, not what the school board estimates. The taxpayers of Sullivan County set up a contingency fund to renovate the Turnpike School. This two-thirds tax was set up for Turnpike by the taxpayers of Sullivan County. They made the decision where the money was to be spent, not the majority of the school board, who voted to use the money where needed in any of the district’s facilities. According to the Building and Grounds Chairman, Mr. Ferguson, there was $350,000 left in the Contingency Fund after all expenses were paid. He felt any remaining repairs would not require anywhere near the $350,000 left in the Turnpike Contingency Fund. When you look at the people moving in the Laporte, Eagles Mere and surrounding areas, you see those who have retired and who aren’t going to have any more children. This should be considered when you see the cost in maintaining the Sullivan County School.

Anthony Barnatovich

Protect Traditional Marriage For Future Generations

Dear Editor:

This past week, the United States Senate entered a debate fundamental to America’s constitutional and cultural fabric. The Senate considered a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution to protect marriage, which I have proudly co-sponsored. This amendment would halt the march of activist judges toward redefining marriage in America by clearly stating, “Marriage in the United States shall consist only of the union of a man and woman.” It would also ensure that courts may not construe the U.S. Constitution or any state constitution as requiring marriages to be bestowed on any other type of union.

On Wednesday, July 14, the Senate’s first vote on the Federal Marriage Amendment failed to muster the 60 votes necessary to break through a Democratic filibuster to prevent full consideration of the resolution. This effort nonetheless signifies the first step in Congress’s efforts to block the subversion of the democratic process by activist, unelected judges.

Those of us fighting to preserve traditional marriage did not choose the timing of this debate. The timing of the Senate’s deliberation was forced by the November 2003 ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts in Goodridge vs. Massachusetts Department of Health, in which a slim 4-3 majority ruled that the state’s refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples violated the state constitution. In effect, the court ruled that the traditional definition of marriage as a husband and a wife discriminated against gay couples by denying them a privilege enjoyed by heterosexuals. The court also ruled that there was “no rational reason” to preserve traditional marriage laws and that traditional marriage was rooted only in “persistent prejudices.” This ruling gave Massachusetts legislators little time to comply and on May 17, 2004, the state was compelled to begin issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

Since that time, individuals from across the nation have traveled to Massachusetts to take advantage of the Goodridge ruling. Same-sex couples given marriage licenses in Massachusetts—as well as in San Francisco and parts of Oregon—have since returned home to at least 46 states, and some are likely planning to sue for recognition in their home states. Already 35 lawsuits have been filed in 11 states across our nation challenging those states’ marriage laws as unconstitutional.

The Massachusetts court and liberal activists contend that this debate is a question of equal rights. Same-sex couples have the same rights as all other Americans to love and lie with whomever they want. However, these couples do not have a right to impose a new definition of marriage on the rest of society. States, municipalities and employers can and have extended many of the financial and legal benefits of marriage such as health insurance benefits to same-sex partners. The Federal Marriage Amendment would do nothing to block the extension of such benefits or the creation of “civil-unions,” such as exist in Vermont.

Proponents of same-sex marriage claim that we who support the Federal Marriage Amendment are simply biased against gay and lesbian Americans. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reason I believe so strongly in preserving traditional marriage is that to do so is in the clear best interests of our society and our children. By removing the importance and unique value that traditional marriage holds in our society, government would send mixed signals about what science and thousands of years of recorded history have shown is the optimal environment for raising healthy children—a household with a married mother and father present.

There is also a strong link between legalization of same-sex marriage and the breakdown of the traditional family. In Scandinavia, countries legalized same-sex marriage or marriage-like partnerships in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Since then, we have seen a pattern of less frequent marriage and more frequent out-of-wedlock births, leading to a breakdown of the family. In Denmark, Sweden and Norway, where same-sex marriage is highly accepted by religious leaders, more than 82 percent of first-born children in 2002 were born out-of-wedlock. I doubt few Americans would argue that we would want to import these alarming statistics into the United States. Though single parents and same-sex couples can and do raise wonderful children, it is married two-parent homes that best prepare children to succeed. Society should continue to do all that it can to encourage what’s best for the success of future generations.

Though this week’s debate concluded without passage of the Federal Marriage Amendment, the American people have taken note of this first step and are strongly in favor of preserving traditional marriage. I cannot think of another issue where I have received more mail, petitions, phone calls or e-mails than on the marriage debate. Pennsylvanians are very concerned about the further weakening of the American family, and they know that should that happen, less people would get married, more children would be born out of wedlock and more would be undereducated and trapped in poverty. The future of marriage is a timely and vital dialogue, and the American people deserve to have their voices heard.

Sen. Rick Santorum

Agrees with McLinko

Editor:

Mr. McLinko continues to be the lone voice of mainstream voter sentiment by voting against the jail bond issuance.

Howard O’Connor
Wysox

He Sees Bush as Only
Solution to Our Ills

Editor

Can Democrats be trusted to protect the citizens of the U.S. against terrorists?

Did Democrats contribute to higher gas prices and the current wave of terrorism?

Bill Clinton vetoed an energy bill in 1996 that would have provided between 1,000,000 and 3,000,000 barrels of domestic oil per day, which would reduce the cost of gas at the pump.

Clinton had three opportunities to capture or kill Osama bin Laden but did nothing.

Clinton dramatically down-sized our military and inhibited the CIA in various ways seldom meeting with the director of this agency.

These actions encouraged terrorists and rogue nations in the world. John Kerry supported Clinton on every single issue and even voted against most of our modern weapons’ systems in use today.

Sen. Kerry supports the U.N. and believes that the U.S. should be subservient to all their dictates. The U.N. has a plan to impose gun control on all the nations of the world including the U.S. Would Americans want the U.N. to confiscate all of their guns with the blessing of Kerry as president?

Sen. Kerry, as the most liberal member of the Senate, has voted for every tax and even proposed a fifty cent per gallon tax on gasoline. We know that he would appoint liberal judges that would ban all symbols of Christianity from public life.

Please support George W. Bush and re-elect him in November to avoid a national disaster.

Edwin Makarevich
Kunkletown

Don’t Wait to Attack
While Terrorism Fosters

Editor:

If Germany had waited three years or more before it began the Second World War, you’d be talking German now. In that time, Germany would have had time to invent the jet, would have had created rockets that could reach thousands of miles. It surely would have invented the atomic bomb by then. If it did possess such an arsenal, we would have had no choice but to kiss our butts goodbye. All the old, the sick, insane and all the Jews would be long gone. The world for us would be long gone. The world for us would be torment and not worth getting up for.

Looking back in retrospect, it is proper to deduce that the sooner we had gotten into the war, the sooner it would have been over and many lives would have been saved. I believe we should have reacted years ago to countries who now target us daily. Half this country is against the war against extremists. They don’t realize that the two hundred million Islamic extremists out of two billion Islamics are out to get you dead.

This war will not end, you will fight it. Your sons and daughters will fight it and so will your unborn. To those who are thinking of having children—ask yourself “why.”

Would you vote for someone that the terrorists want as your president? Would you vote for those who miss the Clinton era? Rush Limbaugh read off a list of people that are most likely to vote Democrat. You are most likely to vote Democrat if you drink a lot, smoke a lot or on welfare. Vote Democrat if you are not well educated, curse a lot, on pot or a movie star. Live in Florida or California. If you are gay or not very religious or are pro-abortionist.

Pacifism in this war will get you a one-way ticket to the cemetery.

Vincent Calaman
Powell

Notice of Taxation
Thrives Over 100 Years

Editor:

Something to think about.

Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago and the USA was the most prosperous in the world:

— Had absolutely no national debt;

— Had the largest middle class in the world;

— And moms stayed home to raise the children.

Accounts receivable tax, building permit tax, capital gains tax, CDL license tax, cigarette tax, corporate income tax, court fines (indirect taxes), dog license tax, federal income tax, federal unemployment tax (FUTA).

Fishing license tax, food license tax, fuel permit tax, gasoline tax (42¢ per gal.), hunting license tax, inheritance tax, interest expense (tax on the money), inventory tax, IRS interest changes (tax on top of tax), IRS penalties (tax on top of tax).

Liquor tax, local income tax, luxury taxes, marriage license tax, medicare tax, property tax, real estate tax, septic permit tax, service charge taxes, social security tax, road usage taxes (truckers), sales taxes, recreational vehicle tax.

Road toll booth taxes, school tax, state income tax, state unemployment tax (SUTA), telephone federal excise tax, telephone federal universal service fee tax, telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes, telephone minimum usage surcharge tax, telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax.

Telephone, state and local tax, telephone usage charge tax, toll bridge taxes, toll tunnel taxes, traffic fines (indirect taxation), trailer registration tax, utility taxes, vehicle license registration tax, vehicle sales tax, water craft registration tax, well permit tax (coming soon here), workers’ compensation tax.

I’m sure you can think of more, also.

Dick Bennett

Is Bush Continuing
Policies of Reagan?

Editor:

Now that the tribute to Ronald Reagan is over, the Democrats are beginning to criticize his domestic policies.

However, the employment records do not support their criticism.

From 1982 to 1992, the nation’s employment grew at the unprecedented rate of 18.2 percent. During the same period, employment grew in various European countries at the following rates: Germany, 9.6 percent; United Kingdom, 6.6 percent; France, 3.7 percent; Socialist Sweden, minus .6 percent.

John Kerry, John Edwards and the Democrats want to pattern our economy after socialist nations such as Sweden and France. Now they criticize George W. Bush for his tax cuts and his attack on Iraq. Because of the tax cuts, our economy is growing at a rate that rivals a 20-year high and 1.5 million jobs have been added in the last few months. There is no evidence that Iraq was planning a terrorist attack against the U.S. The 9-11 Commission admits that there were Iraqi terrorist connections that could pose a threat to the U.S.

John Kerry voted against and opposed almost all the programs enacted by Congress and signed into law by Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush.

Kerry was wrong in the case of Ronald Reagan and he is wrong again.

Kerry’s rhetoric does not match his 20-year voting record in the Senate.

Please help to keep our country safe and prosperous by supporting our president, George W. Bush.

Edwin J. Makarevich
Kunkletown

 

State’s Two-Faced
Stance on Gambling

Editor:

Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”

Our state has instituted more gambling and then they want to spend millions to help gambling for becoming an addiction. That is like fighting fire with gasoline in my thinking.

We allow men and women to rule our nation, who have no regard for the Godly principles on which our nation was founded or for the God, Who made our nation great. It is like signing our own death warrant.

Charles Learn
Laceyville

 

Wonders Why
Only One Towanda Funeral Home

Dear Editor:

I am a resident of the Towanda area. I don’t understand an area the size of Towanda having only one funeral parlor. Not only that, but there is only one viewing room. The driveway is steep and has gravel on it, which makes it a hazard, not only for the elderly, but everyone walking on it. There is no real handicap entrance, but the one in back that not too many people know about. This entrance is generally blocked with the hearse.

I understand at one time, there were three funeral homes in town, all of which did quite well. I feel there should be some competition in any business. With a monopoly, prices can be fixed and you have no say in the matter. There are a lot of people that don’t have the money or insurance to cover an unexpected death in the family. If there was some competition, they might even let you set up a payment plan instead of payment on demand.

A Concerned Citizen,|
Mary A. Kaminski

Why Fire Company Opted
To Sell Beer in Laceyville

Dear Editor:

As a citizen of Laceyville and a member of the Laceyville Good Will Fire Company, I feel that the Laceyville Borough Council should have found out why the fire company was selling beer and felt it necessary to put all the blame on the fire company.

There are always two sides to a story: the fire company was informed that they could not sell soda, water, lemonade, iced tea or sports drink or any other drink if another business was selling it. That’s when the fire company decided to sell beer.

The firemen’s celebration was moved out of town years ago and eventually dropped from town because at that time the businesses on Laceyville’s Main Street complained that it tied up the street and made it inconvenient for people to shop.

The fire companies in the small town put a lot of work to keeping the fire company going and put their lives on the line every time they go out on a call to protect the people and their property.

The people who started all this complaining about the beer did a good job, but forgot what happens when a fire company goes under for the lack of support from their fire area.

The Laceyville Good Will Fire Company and all other small town fire companies would like to thank the people who support them.

Gwen Burgess

Thanks for Making
‘Relay’ Big Success

Dear Editor:

It is with great pleasure that I take this time to thank all of Wyalusing Area for their tremendous support in making the First Annual Relay for Life a huge success.

To the chairpersons of each committee, thank you so much for your energy, ideas and fellowship that made all the difference.

To the Wyalusing faculty, you made such an impression on our children and we thank you for your enthusiasm and support.

To the kids, you are the future in the effort to find a cure for cancer. Thank you and remember . . . I Hope You Dance.

To my family and friends, thanks for believing in me and supporting me with your prayers and hard work.

To all of you that walked in the rain, during the night and having fun doing it, as well as walking in sunshine and daylight, you make me so proud.

I hope you will not only return in 2005, but also invite others to take part.

Our goal is to make a complete circle of hands around the track. We are already halfway there.

Thanks again to everyone.
Jan Bouse-Stoddard

Waiting for Winnings
From Relay for Life

Dear Editor:

I would like to congratulate the Wyalusing Relay for Life teams on a job well done. I think it is a great and fun way to raise money for the American Cancer Society. My family participated on one of the teams there. My husband, myself and our six-year-old daughter all took turns walking Friday night and then again on Saturday morning.

We had one bad experience after it was all over, and I thought that our community needed to be aware of it. Each team had set up booths to sell raffle tickets for prizes. The teams each donated their time and money for the prizes that were being given away. Not too many people realized that they were set up in the empty lot by the cemetery. They thought they were only for people camping overnight. I had asked my mother if she would like me to take some money with me on Saturday and enter her name in the drawings. As it was, we were only able to enter one for her because some had already stopped selling tickets when we got there (9:30 a.m.). The one that we put her money in was for a basket with $50 worth of scratch-off lottery tickets in it. You guessed it. She got a phone call from a lady that evening after the relay was over telling her that she had won. Mom was too excited and did not remember the “lady’s” name. She was asked for directions to her house by the caller and was told that they would deliver the basket either Saturday evening or Sunday. Mom told them that she would be home until around 11 on Sunday. Guess what? She waited until 1 p.m. and no one showed up or even called back. It’s been almost three weeks and she has heard nothing.

Yes, buying tickets is a game of chance, but when you are called and told you are a winner, and then receive nothing because someone else decided to keep it for himself or herself, leaves a very bad taste in your mouth. I think next year we’ll skip the tents and give our money directly to the American Cancer Society, so they can help people like my two uncles that passed away from cancer after long suffering and my aunt that won her battle with breast cancer.

All in all, I hope they (the dishonest person) read this and are ashamed of themselves.

Sincerely,
Charlene Markish
Wyalusing

 

Taking Their Time
To Round Up Druggies?

Editor:

Good job on the methamphetamine drug bust. Just wondering why it takes so long to do a bust? It’s really something that three persons of this bust were charged with criminal attempt or conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine if this is the case.

How many more people were taught to cook? (By the way, how long does it take one to learn to make meth and how many can be taught to make it in one sitting?) How long has this investigation been going on? Seems we could have quite a few cookers out there. Why does it take so long to make a bust? Is it more people arrested on one bust the merrier?

The law wants citizens to be their eyes and ears so it can be taking care of the meth, but with it taking so long before anything is done about, it’s not worth the risk. The law knows what people act like when on meth, but do the citizens really know? Let me say it’s not a pretty sight.

How many of these citizens reported something and nothing was ever done about it? The children are the ones who lose so much. What about the ones that are in law enforcement and say to parents with children, if you do some telling on the ones you know that are involved in meth, we will let you go. So these children are still living and going through hell because of this set up because their parents are still on the meth and only getting worse. Some of these parents are going to harder drugs than meth, which just makes it worse.

What about the parents who have a child or children on meth and the hell they go through watching them on it and being able to do nothing? Because of the wait, it is so long before anything is done, look what has happened to Bradford County.

Debbie J. Reeves
Towanda

Dear Editor,

I would like to offer the following to you so that you may better know one of your weekly contributors, Rev. Bill as well as his other half, his wife Eva. Together they are celebrating their 62nd anniversary this week, having been partners in life and together in service to people of this and other communities around the country for most of those years. I could not be present recently when their church and community celebrated their anniversary. These are some of the things I would have said at that time.

They began their lives together having just survived the depression and were deeply involved in the struggle of World War II as members of the “Greatest Generation.” He was completing his education when they married. Later, he served as a member of the S-boat subs patrolling the East coast while she was an employee of a defense plant. Together they began a life in an uncertain time that puts our modern “dot-com” boom and bust days to shame.

They found a way to have a loving relationship in a time of great uncertainty, something that this present generation cannot find. They had to learn who they were within themselves, to learn to have a loving relationship that was also a partnership, and all in the space of time that many of today’s youth would typically find remarkable.

Today’s youth, and even the older generations, wait for lengthy periods before making a commitment, if we even make one at all. How many can say that they expect to have their relationship last 62 years, something that seems as far away as Mars or Saturn? I myself was lax in this respect, through no one’s fault but my own; I commend them and the others of their generation who have made it that far or farther.

One reason they did make it was because their life was a partnership. Rev. Bill was there to take care of the others—that was his goal and calling. Eva became the helpmate and partner, guiding him along his way as a (sometimes) silent partner, keeping watch and making sure that he could keep going. This partnership still goes on as he recovers from a major surgery; she’s still watching out for him and insuring that he can complete his appointed rounds.

They were also partners in seeing that the world, or at least small parts of it, was a better place. Both Bill and Eva worked against segregation long before it became a theme of the 60’s. They began to take a stand back in the 40’s while Bill was in school in Tennessee, a time and place where racism was the daily norm. My mother, small as she was, was a strong contender against the powers of the town and the University, and even stood up to Rev. Bob Jones, Sr. himself when she felt she was right. That determination is something that they both share and is another part of what makes their partnership a great one

What I directly remember is from the sixties, when they taught me through example, that all people of all races are equal. Those lessons, as well as standing up for what one feels is right, are the greatest lessons that I was able to carry from them.

The other great lesson that I learned from them is to care about others and to be willing to sacrifice your own time and needs for others. This is something that they do best and is a constant factor in their everyday lives. I tried to emulate their example, first in the emergency medical field and now as staff member and mentor at a high school. But I will never be able to match their devotion to helping others, something that they have done for all of their 62 years together.

I compliment Bill and Eva on their years together. On behalf of myself and my siblings, thanks for all you did for us. We each went our ways, making mistakes and having our struggles. Although our lives turned out to be different in scope and practice, we always admired the example that your marriage was.

Thanks Mom and Dad /Bill and Eva for all that you do for others, for being in service to the community and those around you as partners in life. You have seen many changes in the world and helped bring about a few yourselves, as did many of your generation, accurately named the greatest generation. Congratulations on your 62^nd; may you continue your partnership together for many more.

Ronald Nelson

Agrees Bank Move
Loss to Community

Dear Editor:

Caryl Snyder was right on the mark concerning the closing of Peoples State Bank on Church St.

Many feel the same way about losing this bank—town residents, a lot of “out-of-towners” from our surrounding communities and the businesses who find it so handy.

I guess this is supposed to be considered “progress.” I consider it losing one more part of our town; one more empty building and street.

Respectfully,
Marie Keeney
Wyalusing

All Politics Aside,
Vote in a Democrat

Dear Editor,

Our republic is better off when there’s a balance of power between Republicans and Democrats than under one-party rule. Both parties are comprised of mainstream constituencies: business owners and labor union members, rural agrarians and urban professionals, wealthy stockholders and working poor—these are all groups of people who are vital to the nation as a whole and are all affected by the national government’s decisions on a daily basis. Half of these groups are well represented by the Republican Party and the other half, by the Democratic Party.

In the past, when one party controlled the legislature and the other party controlled the presidency, both ‘halves of America’ held institutional checks and balances against each other. Extremely idealogical legislation and court nominees of both parties were almost always sifted out by veto or filibuster, insuring that only safe, moderate and broadly supported federal legislation and court nominations were approved.

This November, the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate are all but certain to remain under Republican control because of 1) which Senate seats are up for election and 2) redistricting in Texas. Given that, regardless of how one feels about Bush and Kerry, their policies, or job performance, for someone who values safe, bi-partisan and broadly-supported legislation and court nominees, voting a Democrat into the White House is the only way for America to have balanced, safe, bi-partisan and broadly-supported national legislation and federal court nominations during the next four years.

Sincerely,
Tom Craig

Questions to Consider
Before Closing School

Editor:

Here are some questions that I have concerning the possible closing of Turnpike Elementary School:

1. What is the efficiency and expenditures of the Sullivan County School District? (Laporte and Turnpike).

2. How efficient are the Sullivan County schools operating (Laporte vs. Turnpike)?

3. How will the students and residents be better served (Laporte vs. Turnpike)?

4. How economical or efficient will it be transporting the children from Cherry Township, Dushore, Colley, Mildred and Lopez to Laporte? More liability will be placed on the taxpayers and a danger in transporting our children in inclement weather and a hardship will be created for the parents in getting the children ready for school and returning them home from school.

5. How is the discipline at the Laporte campus?

6. Should we expose our elementary school children with the high school children? This is a concern of all parents. The children’s safety is everybody’s responsibility and should be considered before the closing of Turnpike Elementary School is made. The decision made now is of great interest to the residents of Mildred and nearby vicinities. Whatever decision that is made, will affect everyone, one way or the other.

Closing schools and rerouting students is not new to Sullivan County. Twenty and 30 years ago, respectively, elementary schools in Sonestown and Estella closed, forcing students to travel to Laporte. At one time, we had 12,000 people in Sullivan County. As time went by, the population decreased to 6,000, leaving those areas with fewer children to fill the classrooms. That is when the county went into a merger, taking in the schools with fewer pupils. Building a school in Laporte and agreeing to keep a school in Mildred, which was centrally located in the area of the populous, met the needs of elementary students. This has worked well and we are proud of the 50 years of giving our children the quality education that the Turnpike School has to offer. Option B stated that the new elementary school at Laporte would better serve Turnpike students because the new building was a state-of-the-art facility, maintain neighborhood school and there would be greater ease of circulatory movement throughout the school. This is not a part of the main campus and new school construction is costly. Turnpike Elementary does not need a state-of-the-art facility. The school was built to withstand a tornado; in earlier years, it was used as a bomb shelter. Our concern was in educating and the safety of our children. The same concern is today as it was in the past.

On June 30, 2001, the Turnpike Contingency Fund had $745,108. According to the building and grounds chairman, Mr. Ferguson, there was $350,000 left in the Contingency Fund. Four hundred, forty-five thousand and one-hundred and eight dollars was spent on renovations and repairs. He felt extensive repairs were in good shape and any remaining repairs would not require anywhere near the $350,000 left in the Turnpike Contingency Fund. These were some of the things that needed to be done at Turnpike Elementary School:

1. The driveway behind the gymnasium should have a blacktop instead of a ground base. This needed to be put in place for the handicapped.

2. The handicap ramp needed minor repairs. Putting off this project could become very costly in the very near future if not taken care of before winter set in.

3. The railings going up the ramp needed attention.

4. Brick on the school building needed pointing. These are things that should be attended to immediately. Much more had to be done at the Turnpike School.

Until everything is taken care of, the Contingency Fund should be available for the Turnpike School. (These projects were taken care of.) The Contingency Fund was set up for the Turnpike School. This is how the 2/3 mill tax was placed on the taxpayers of Sullivan County. Now that the tax has served its purpose and we have $350,000 in the fund, we should complete the work needed at Turnpike and drop the 2/3   mill tax. No way was this tax intended to be placed in the General Building Fund. Nancy Craft, school board president, remarked for a fact that it’s not costing more to maintain the Turnpike building than it costs to maintain the Laporte complex.

The 2000-2001 budget with major projects are as follows: Laporte High School, $719,026.38. With 1994-1996 notes over a period of 20 years, the balance on these notes was $1,058,927.21, not including interest. It seems that every two years, the Laporte High School has to borrow a million dollars just to keep things up to standard. As for the Turnpike Elementary School, the 2000-2001 budget with various projects was listed as $141,000. A majority of the board members decided that the money accumulated in the Contingency Fund would be better used to make repairs where needed in any of the district’s facilities instead of having hundreds of thousands held in reserve while borrowing money to make the needed repairs in facilities other than the Turnpike Elementary School. The majority of the board members were wrong when they decided to use the Turnpike Contingency Fund where needed in any of the districts’ facilities. This 2/3 tax was set up for Turnpike by the taxpayers of Sullivan County and they made the decision where the money was to be spent, not the majority of the board, who voted to use the money where needed in any of the districts’ facilities.

We must continue educating our children and never stop their progress. Consolidation and a campus atmosphere will only hinder the comradeship they have had since kindergarten to sixth grade. Busing the children to Laporte will be cruel, will create problems once they get with the older kids and they won’t have the contact with their parents as they now do. At this age, more than ever, they shouldn’t be exposed to the problems that larger schools have. They need the love and caring only a parent can give and this is by keeping the children at Turnpike.

We have voiced our position on the closing of Turnpike and feel the students’ education will suffer. Damage will occur if we consolidate. Bigger is not always better. There would be less parent-teacher participation in decision making by teachers and administration, more tension between teachers and students and less contact with parents. Large school size hurts attendance and dampens enthusiasm for involvement in school activities. There would be more problems with violence, security and drug abuse. In fact, test scores drop after consolidation. The Sullivan County School Board should consider the price of selfishness is even more than this. The richest society the world has ever known and can afford is costing us our ability to govern ourselves and that cost could be our very freedom.

Anthony Barnatovich

Keep Window Service
In Town, She Says

Dear Editor:

I don’t know how many people are aware that the Peoples State Bank plans to discontinue all window service at the Church Street office in a few weeks. The drive-up window is already closed.

I, for one, do not want the windows closed. Living in town, I enjoy the convenience of being able to walk to the bank and at the same time, visit the post office. There are many borough people who do the same. There are also many folks who can’t drive or no longer are able to drive, who need this service.

There will be no convenient or quick way for merchants to drop off deposits or get change for the day, while also making a stop at the post office.

I believe there are many folks from out of town who would also continue to use the Church Street bank as a matter of convenience.

Also, anytime a business service is taken from a community, that community is diminished.

If no objection is made known by those who want and need the banking service, the board of directors of the bank can only assume that everyone is “okay” with the closing.

If you want banking service in town, let your voice be heard.

Caryl Snyder,
Wyalusing

Dear Editor:

In your May 27th edition, there was a picture of the Auburn School, Class of 1910. I have that same picture in my kitchen. On the back is handwritten “Webb’s Graduating Class 1910.”

The third man from the right is Webb E. Bunnell. He was my late husband’s (Robert Heitsman) grandfather. He was a very gifted cabinetmaker and well known for his grandfather clocks.

I have no idea who anyone else is. I hope this is helpful.

Anne Heitsman

It’s Time to Stop
Political ‘Power Plays’

Dear Editor:

Mr. McLinko has been elected for four years, whether Mrs. Schrader and Mrs. Lewis like it or not, and it’s time to start working together instead of the two of you getting your way all the time.

You act like small children that can’t get along, and it doesn’t say much for our elected officials for our county. You do things your own way as you have the majority of the votes, whether it is good for the taxpayers or not. Mrs. Schrader made it known even before Doug was elected that she didn’t intend to work with him. The real problem to me seems that Doug does know more what’s going on than you would like him to. When you brought his personal affairs into the newspaper, that was uncalled for and was very unprofessional on your part. How would you have liked it if someone had done this to you?

We, the people, voted for you folks and what a mistake. You are not for the people at all. Mrs. Schrader and Mrs. Lewis, the people of Bradford County cannot make it now. When you pick up the newspapers and see all the sheriff sales and tax sales listed, doesn’t this tell you something, or do you just not care? Times are hard and people are not making it now without increasing and adding more taxes to this county. When you hear people say they go without their medicines to keep their taxes paid and their homes heated, something is wrong.

Four million, six hundred thousand dollars for a new jail? You hired a person to come in (using taxpayers’ money) for his advice. Then you did just the opposite that he advised you to do. Your minds were already made up. This was a way to make things look better. Taxpayers have voiced their concerns over and over. Already if one spouse dies, the other cannot afford to continue to live in their home and keep up with the taxes. And you think we need more? There are several options to building a $4.6 million jail. DWI and drug offenders need to go to rehab (yes, this is expensive), but this may stop their addictions and they will not be repeat offenders in six months. Jail does not cure their problems and they just keep returning. What about the working ones going under house arrest? These persons have an illness and an addiction; they need help, not jail time. This does not cure them. What percentage in jail make up this number? From the newspapers I feel that 85 percent of our jail persons are DWI, drugs and abuse.

The only way to try to correct these problems is with rehab or counseling. They are not murderers or thieves. With proper treatment when returned to society they may not return to jail, again and again. You say add more room, how long before you will need to add on again? With taxes already out of sight and people out of work, where is it going to end? It will only continue to get worse.

People are losing jobs and medical benefits, but they still have to pay taxes and eat to survive. Mrs. Schrader and Mrs. Lewis, you have spent so much time arguing over a new jail you have let businesses in our county just fade away with no help at all. You should have been fighting to keep them here. But they were not your first priority. The jail seems to be that and adding more debt to a county that cannot afford it. You need to be listening to the people that elected you and what they are saying and the many fears that are facing them. You even had a chance to expand a building in Wysox through KOZ, but you voted it down. Why?

I think because that was Doug’s territory and also the businessperson that owned the property. This would have employed more persons, and the businessperson that owns this seems to know how to manage his affairs. We couldn’t have something like that.

You are even letting the Bradford County Manor slip away. All the monies spent remodeling and now on second floor east, there is a whole new wing that is empty. I say one because that is all I have seen, but how many more wings have several empty beds? What will happen when the manor has no more funds to borrow from? You have it nearly depleted now. You talk about millions like they were hundreds. Now all we hear is the bonds that are going to build this jail, who is going to buy these bonds when they’re nearly broke already? Mrs. Schrader and Mrs. Lewis, open your ears and listen to the people you are working for. No jobs and fixed incomes do not buy bonds.

Mrs. Schrader, when you were campaigning you stated taxes were not going to raise, stating that Doug was wrong and didn’t know what he was talking about, stating such things as taxes would have to be raised. Well, who was right? And you think you are doing this for the best interest of the people? Everywhere you go, it’s the same talk, high taxes, high fuel prices, high grocery prices and medicines most persons cannot afford and live too. Where does it all end?

I think it’s time we all get things in order, as we cannot keep going this way. I think the good Lord is trying to tell us something. Mrs. Schrader and Mrs. Lewis, I felt you were for the good of the people and I respected you both. But since this last election, I no longer feel this way, and it is only a power struggle and child’s play. You are no longer working for the good of the people when you want to put an added $4.6 million burden on the people of Bradford County with things the way they are.

Doug seems to be the only one with any common sense and with eyes wide open enough to see that we are already in trouble. You two are going to have it your way no matter who gets hurt by it, or if it puts our county into a debt that we can never get out of. I feel sorry for the next commissioners that are elected and have to clean this mess up. You say Doug is all wrong; well, we can read and we know what is happening and seems to me he has said it all.

It’s pretty bad when you hear people talking about waiting to read Friday’s newspaper to see what the commissioners have argued about this week. It is ridiculous that adults cannot work together and do what is expected of them as our leaders. You do not set very good examples. You are not doing your jobs. You are supposed to be looking out for the county and the citizens that live in it and not just getting what you want at any and all expense. You think it’s more important because the two of you have the majority and can get what you want just because Doug doesn’t feel it’s the best way. Well, it isn’t. Doug does have some good ideas, and they should be open for discussion not criticism. This is a two-way street. And, Mrs. Schrader, from the responses that you have been receiving, do you feel you and Mrs. Lewis have been commissioners too long? Start listening to what is being said.

Barbara Bailey
Luthers Mills

Editor’s note: We agree it is counter-productive to get bogged down in politics and power plays at the expense of good government. We might caution that partisan politics can also spill over into “Letters to the Editor” columns. WLS

Military’s Doing Good
Things Over There

Dear Editor:

Thank you and everyone else. Your newspaper keeps me informed. My squad even looks forward to reading about my hometown news. I have received mail from strangers like Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Morrow of Sugar Run. And a big special thank you for Mrs. Ciprich’s kindergarten class of New Albany. Those children drew some real nice pictures, and their handwriting is great. Keep up the good work, kids.

I also received letters from people I haven’t heard from in a long time.

I would also like to tell y’all, we are doing good things over here. The news only reports the bad, but that’s no fault of their own. Americans, in general, don’t care to hear about the good, even if you do or don’t agree with this war. After seeing the begging children wanting nothing more than food and water; when traveling on a convoy hundreds of them line the street to beg.

If we pulled out now, there would be a Civil War. Too many children would die for no reason. The bad guys kill over here for no reason. All they want is power.

In the age of e-mail, in a way it’s nice. But a lot of places here have no printers, long lines and time limits on the computer. But if you can write a soldier a letter, he can carry it with him. He can read it over and over. And when things get bad, he always has that letter to see him through. To me it means a lot. Someone took time out of their day just to sit down and write to me. I will write back to everyone that writes me. It’s the right thing to do. You should know I am not the best speller. Please sit down and write to your soldier no matter where he is at. Mail time is like Christmas Day for us—grown men acting just like kids when mail is handed out.

I would like to tell you about our missions and where we are at, but I can’t. The reason for that is the safety of my men.

Thank You,
Sgt. Douglas (Bo) Waldrop
A 980^th En. Bn.
APO AE 09324

Words for “Taps?”
He Supplies Them

Dear Editor:

I am a faithful reader of the Wyalusing Rocket-Courier, and intentionally skip only the classified ads and reports on professional sports. I read all of the other articles, whether large and long, or brief and to the point, more knowledge is gained each week than from the likewise thorough reading of the seven issues of the area’s daily newspaper.

I am especially impressed with the factual content (as opposed to personal opinions) contained in Bill Bower’s column, “Reflections of Nature.” There are certain topics that appear in his column, from time to time, that are brand new to me. I don’t have a clue as to the accuracy of the facts he presents on these topics, but accept them wholeheartedly. After all, he often credits the Bradford County Library as his main resource in researching these topics.

Concerning those topics appearing in the column that are familiar to me, I’ve never before disagreed. But (here it comes) Mr. Bower’s column in the June 3 issue of the Rocket-Courier spans three subjects, the last being the origin of taps, as played at a military funeral. The question is asked, “Have you ever wondered if there are words for taps? Well, here they are.” What is then presented to the readers is (according to my research) a mixture of the fourth and third stanzas of the words for taps. My research shows that there are five stanzas of words for taps, the best known of which is the first:

Day is done, gone the sun,

From the hills,

From the lake,

From the sky.

All is well, safely rest.

God is nigh.

I learned that one in the sixth grade, way back in 1946.

Your friendly critic,
Warren J. Roberts
Warren Center

Reagan Provides
Reasons To Support Bush Values

Dear Editor:

This nation has just witnessed a tribute to one of the greatest presidents in our history, Ronald Reagan. George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan had much in common. They were committed to the principles found in the Bible as represented by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Without their contribution we would not have the freedom and prosperity that we enjoy today. They were criticized by the other party in government and are still today.

George W. Bush is a man that represents these traditional values and is attempting to lead this nation with the same courage and conviction, which is characteristic of these great men.

As a member of Congress, John Kerry voted against and opposed almost all of the legislation that was enacted under Ronald Reagan. Most recently, John Kerry voted against providing body armor and munitions for our troops.

We have not had a single terrorist attack since 9-11 principally because of the Patriot Act and the diligent work of the FBI, CIA and law enforcement directed by John Ashcroft and George W. Bush. We have been safe.

John Kerry wants to repeal the Patriot Act and treat terrorism as a law enforcement issue.

If you value your freedom, your safety and your future, we must defeat all the Democrats in the November election.

Edwin J. Makarevich
Kunkletown

Do Permits Really
Solve Our Problems?

Dear Editor:

I am writing this letter on behalf of myself, my husband and several of our neighbors. It was brought to my attention, as I rarely read any newspaper, the article last week on the Stevens Township meeting.

I would like to say that many of us feel very belittled by the assumption that neighbors are to report on each other if someone is doing something as minor as replacement of a water heater, so that the township checks to see that proper “permits” are followed.

Where are the days when neighbors had barn raisings for someone who lost their barn to fire? What about neighbors getting together for a day of wood cutting so that the person will be warm this winter that they cannot cut their own?

In the past, we taught our children not to “tattle” on each other if it were not harmful to themselves or others. And now it is expected that we tell on each other for necessary duties that are needed to maintain our homes. Is this what we call “Neighborhood Watch?” Isn’t this how it started in China, Nazi Germany, Russia, etc.?

I have always had a hard time adjusting to change, but I am not alone when I say that as homeowners we have a right to our privacy and pride in our accomplishments. We already have enough expenses with mortgage, taxes and general upkeep that to add to this with menial unnecessary permits is a shame.

If someone has to obtain a permit to tear down a rundown building on their property, don’t you think that more places will be unkempt and unsafe to the community? People are less likely to maintain neatness and safety hazards if every time they need to obtain a permit.

There may be some legitimate reasonings behind some of this, but at this point we do not see what it is, and we do not want to visualize to whom it will benefit.

Betty Jo and Theron Hitchcock

They’ve Paid
Their Dues For
Use of Property

Editor:

I am writing in regard to lost properties and unauthorized use of borough property by Riverside Drive residents.

Clifford and Janice Woodruff bought the Johnny Heeman 30-plus years ago. At that time they had small grandchildren who visited often. They were concerned for their safety, should they decide to cross the road to play. The borough property across from their home was filled with garbage, broken glass, poison sumac and briars. They enlisted help from their family to clean it up, and it became a nice lawn, which has been kept up by members of the Woodruff family ever since.

Clifford asked a member of the borough council if he could put a garden in and they said yes. There has been a garden there off and on ever since.

My husband and I now have a driveway and shed on this property also. Before this was done, a member of the borough council, at that time, was asked for permission. They said it was okay as long as nothing permanent was put there.

I understand that some people see this as some type of free use of borough property, which they want. I don’t remember seeing anyone clearing land, mowing, seeding or cleaning up after various nasty storms over the years besides us.

As far as lost taxes, I think that maintaining this property for over 30 years more than offsets what tax could have been collected, as well as what maintenance it would have cost the borough if they had decided to keep this property cleared and mowed.

Judy Woodruff Hamilton,
Wyalusing RR2

‘Like the Whole
Sky Was Praying’

Dear Editor:

I was told that there was a strange happening at the Forksville Pow-Wow this past weekend. Michael Taffe (Medicine Shield) was dedicating a ceremony for John MacDonald (Red Wing) who is hospitalized at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.

There was a beautiful sky that appeared and the white clouds turned into feathers. The drums stopped as Medicine Shield directed everyone to look at the sky. It was like the whole sky was praying for John (Red Wing) to heal and come home to his family, friends and loved ones.

We offer this “Sia Medicine Song” in his name:

Grant our children life and happiness.

Send forth the good south winds.

Send forth your breath over the waters that our world may be beautiful and our people may thrive.

Far off, over there, Sun Father awakens and climbs up his ladder leaving his resting place.

May all complete life’s long road, may all grow old.

May our little ones know the sweet smell of the sacred breath of life.

May all our children have maize that they may complete their journey.

Sit down, remain here, we give our best gift, our best thoughts.

We inhale the sweet smell of the sacred breath through our prayer plumes.

Thank you, Medicine Shield, from John’s family,

Belle (Two Feather) and
Todd (Bunny Rain Dance)
Mom, Dad and Tiny MacDonald 

‘Blessed for Knowing’
Late Dennis Mullane

Dear Editor,

There are times when we wished we could have said goodbye. People come and go in our lives and we never realize what can happen tomorrow, a week from now or in a year. Childhood often provides us with the best memories because of the people we meet, and the lessons that we learn along the way to adulthood. The recent passing of Mr. Dennis Mullane not only was a shock, but a reminder of how important it is to communicate the value others have on your life.

I had the great privilege to grow up around the Mullane family, having gone to school with Chad and participated in Boy Scouts with Keith. Dennis and Valerie were an absolute joy to be around whenever we youngsters were out and about. They were great supporters of not only the activities their children participated in, but in the activities their children’s friends did, as well. Dennis, in particular, was also more than willing to give a helping hand to those close to his family. It was an absolute honor to have known Dennis during my childhood, because not only did he help introduce me to the world of golf, but also, most importantly, he showed me how to be a person with a soul, a conscience, with a heart. We always learn those important life lessons from our parents, which I am forever grateful for, but hearing the same messages from those other adults that are around you as you grow up, only help to set that foundation that we are taught at home.

Dennis Mullane was one of those few unique individuals that our world needs more of. Like many in the community, he touched my family and me in ways that cannot be put into words, and we are blessed for knowing him during his time in Wyalusing. My heart goes out to Valerie, Tamara, Keith and Chad; you will be in our hearts forever. Remember all of those wonderful memories you have of your husband and your father, take comfort in them. May Mr. Dennis Mullane be in our hearts forever.

Sincerely,
Scott Blair
Kutztown

Editor,

On May 26, the man who won the popular vote for President in 2000 gave a major speech on terrorism, the current state of the war and America's relationship with the world. But almost all we heard about in the "liberal media" that day was Attorney General John Ashcroft announcing that terrorists will probably attack sometime this summer. Is this a coincidence?

Did Ashcroft just learn the names of the seven “clear and present dangers” that morning and rushed them right out to us? This important speech by Al Gore can be seen at moveonpac.org. Please see it. Then, go to house.gov and senate.gov, and tell your representatives what you think.  Whether you would rather hear from John Ashcroft or Al Gore, it is important that your government hears from you.

Mark McKinney
State College

 

He Views DUI Arrest
As Abuse of Rights

Dear Editor:

Most people wouldn’t go around bragging about having to go to court; and believe me, I wouldn’t either, but, I bare no shame or guilt for this particular situation I find myself in. I refer to my arrest for Driving Under the Influence, which occurred in August 2002. The sad tale I’ll impart to you may sound like sour grapes to some, but other readers might find this “Anatomy” of a DUI useful; and better able to keep themselves from becoming ensnared in the Bradford County Court process.

On Aug. 4, 2002, I was stopped by Sheriff Steven Evans and Sheriff’s Deputy Harry Lammy. Neither seemed to know exactly what to do. I’ll be my Aunt Kate’s green hat with the roses on it, that I was their first customer. After nearly a half hour, or maybe 45 minutes of dragging my arthritic body around the hill located at Bowling Alley Road and Route 6, they decided to head for Memorial Hospital, where I agreed to yield a blood specimen.

The specimen was drawn, after which I indicated to Sheriff Evans, (the only law enforcement officer in the room) that I wanted a blood specimen for my own evidence. The sheriff then said, “It is not allowed,” and refused to allow additional blood to be drawn, over my objections, after which he escorted me from the hospital.

The drawing of one’s blood, for their evidence, is allowed under Title 75, Second 1547, and it is indicated in the law that law enforcement should do all they can to facilitate this process.

My next move was to find an attorney and I did so. I will not divulge his name or the cost unless you ask me personally.

On Oct. 25, 2002, I appeared at the office of The Honorable Fred Wheaton to answer the charge of DUI (my attorney was an hour and 15 minutes late). The attorney advised me to waive the preliminary hearing and attempt to secure the benefits of ARD and that the matters involving the sheriff would be brought out later. I asked and was reassured that he had no fear of confronting the sheriff or other public official.

One might consider going to a preliminary hearing because it is when the commonwealth will present a case against you, and there might be much to learn. Anyway, if the attorney thinks it’s cut and dry, it’s just something he just doesn’t have to do on your behalf.

As with all, or should I say most DUIs, my license was suspended for 90 days. When I was two-thirds through my suspension, I received a notice from the Department of Transportation that I had a right to appeal the license suspension, thinking this would be an opportunity to force testimony from Sheriff Evans, I filed an appeal at a cost of $90. As it turned out, the hearing was not public, but held impromptu between a DOT lawyer and a Bradford County Judge, who called me a coward hiding behind the ARD, stating, “You want your cake and eat it, too.”

Now, some might say, “Doesn’t this fool know when he’s had enough?” Yes, he does, but Judge Mott revoked my ARD status because of a lack of 24 hours’ community service, even though I had completed all other requirements and the Office of Probation was aware that I was physically unable to perform them, having provided Thomas Schuster, the head probation officer, with a description of my malady and my physician’s phone number.

If you think there could be political overtones to this situation, consider this: The prosecutor acted hysterical, prior to the hearing, to the point that I feared that he was going to strike me. My serious feeling is that he was trying to provoke me into a physical altercation. Two persons in the courtroom, acting in an official capacity (not on my side) are related. And maybe the fact that I filed a charge with Judge Wheaton, charging Steve Evans with official oppression, might have placed me in an unfriendly court.

In any case, I am still prepared to have my credibility examined by anyone with any means (polygraph, voice stress analyzer, truth serum, etc.). Remember, you don’t have to be wealthy or prominent to be honorable, but to be honorable, you must be truthful. Does the truth of this or other situations matter to the Bradford County Court? There are sayings that one day could apply, such as: “What goes around comes around,” “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” or for those of you who would say sour grapes: from that old Frank Sinatra favorite, “Fairy tales can come true, it can happen to you.”

The bottom line is: I want my friends and neighbors to take drinking and driving serious. Choose a designated driver. Avail yourself of my services, if you can find me. If they can arrest you sober, they can sure get you drunk.

Drive safe and have a most enjoyable summer.

Martin Meehan

Experience with Police
Leaves Her Stunned

Dear Editor:

In April, I was charged with “fleeing and eluding a police officer.” This was at 2:15 a.m. as I was driving home, alone at 45 miles an hour from my second weekend job. These charges were later dismissed, but the extreme show of force and the loud, exaggerated accusations that night on the part of local law enforcement has to be publicly questioned.

For a quiet, working citizen with no past incidents or records of any kind to be called “criminal” and “combative” and to be surrounded with four police cars—when out of fear and a complete lack of experience with unmarked police cars with rotating lights coming through the grill, I did not pull over and stop—seems to more than border on undue force. I was on a small, narrow country road and I decided that I was being harassed by pranksters. So, I locked my doors and drove home.

Later, for a very young-looking patrolman to be bellowing and waving a gun at me in my driveway without first clearly and convincingly identifying himself is appalling and worrisome. The same can be said for the very rough handcuffing, the loud-as-possible rap/rock music played in the police car on the way back to the Tunkhannock Borough Police Station, and the continued use of the “f” word on the subsequent long ride to Laporte for arraignment.

Being a lifelong, 58-year-old resident of this area, folks who know me can read this and appreciate exactly what kind of picture I am presenting here.

As in the national and world news these days, it has to be asked locally as well: Who, and at what level, sanctions this kind of behavior? The question must also be asked what the local hiring authorities and governmental and political entities have chosen  (in both vehicle type and patrolman temperament) to represent law enforcement to their average citizens and taxpayers?

Marsha Clink,
Springville

P.S. Ladies: the “officially stated” thing to do in this situation is to drive to the nearest police station. Just so you know.

Renovations on Turnpike School
Bear Examining

Editor:

After watching the National WWII Memorial held May 29, 2004, I was impressed by the design submitted by Friedrich St. Florian, an architect based in Providence, RI. Many more worked on this team designing this project, which was approved by the Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission in the summer of 1998, the preliminary in 1999, the architectural design and several auxiliary elements in 2000, granite selections in 2001 and sculpture and inscriptions in 2002 and 2003.

The memorial is funded primarily by private contributions. The fundraising campaign was led by national chairman, Sen. Bob Dole and national co-chairman, Frederick Smith, a graduate of Yale and a former U.S. Marine Corps officer. The memorial received more than $195 million in cash and pledges. This total included $16 million provided by the federal government. This whole project was in appreciation of the men and women who served this nation in World War II and were willing to sacrifice their lives so that we could live in peace. With 400,000 of our comrades dead, this is how we mark the price of freedom. These are the heroes. This monument is about the people whose stories had abruptly stopped, whose lives ended on battlefields, downed airplanes and with sunken ships. These Americans paid the supreme sacrifice. They are the heroes. We who returned home were just lucky. Sometimes for freedom, we have to pay a price and we have to live with it.

On May 13, 2004, to replace a boiler at the Turnpike Elementary School, the estimated cost was $100,000. Qual 3, an architect firm from Wilkes-Barre, was hired to do a feasibility study. They reported that in order to renovate Turnpike, it would cost $3.5 million. The Department of Labor and Industry was asked to come in and evaluate the school. When completed they said the problems were minor. Improvements that needed to be made would be a total of $4,069.92.

On May 27, 2004, the school board changed figures from $100,000 to emergency services for the boiler at Turnpike Elementary not to exceed $5,600. L.E.L. Boiler Maintenance, Montoursville, inspected the furnace at Turnpike and reported on repairs that were needed on the Will McLain Boiler No. 2, and that replacing a boiler at the Turnpike School was minor. Turnpike School’s future was the topic of a school board meeting on Sept. 30, 1999. By keeping Turnpike open and not building an addition to the Sullivan County High School, we saved the taxpayers of Sullivan County $12,000,000.

Turnpike Elementary is one of the finest schools in the Northern Tier. It was built with the best materials and was constructed as a bomb-proof shelter in case of an emergency, whereas the Sullivan County High School is costing us $1,000,000 every two years to renovate the things that are needed to keep it functional. The Sullivan County School Board should consider the price of selfishness is even more than this, the richest society the world has ever known and can afford, it is costing us our ability to govern ourselves and that cost could be our very freedom. Taxpayers must respond or we will be taxed right off the mountain.

Anthony Barnatovich

Kerry’s Right Person
To Defend Our Country

Dear Editor,

From a time of relative peace and prosperity, in the past four years we have seen this country attacked, in terror and at war. With evidence being uncovered at all levels that the 9/11 attacks could have been prevented, I find it ironic that the Republican administration calls John Kerry “weak on defense.” It’s standard patter from the right, but not one of the current administration fulfilled their military duty. They are, indeed, Hawks who are Chickens. They send other, poorer people’s children off to fight their wars.

John Kerry is a deliberate, thoughtful, well-informed man. He joined the Navy right out of Yale and displayed bravery and great love of country by serving as an officer in Vietnam—voluntarily. I have read right-wing rhetoric that spews venom at Mr. Kerry for his anti-war activity. Who better to criticize a war than one who has fought it?

He has three purple hearts for his service to his country. He may be anti-war, but he’s certainly not anti-military. The opposition has been slashing veterans’ benefits, while calling on these volunteer enlisted men and officers to be ready to make the utmost sacrifice. Kerry has consistently advocated increased benefits and health care to veterans.

So, he was willing to serve his country and enlisted to go, and yes, when he came back he was certain enough about the reality of that war that he bravely spoke out against American policies at that time.

If one is not allowed to question the path this nation is taking when it involves the lives of our brave youth, then I fear we no longer live in the Land of the Free.

How much of our military’s skill and weaponry is going toward the protection of contractors hired by this administration for the rebuilding of Iraq? Who is risking their life? Who is making lots of money?

As a Vietnam era veteran, opposed to that war as well, I salute those serving now and want them safely back home, defending our country—from here. Kerry will do that.

Best regards,
Kathleen Allen
Scranton

Sullivan County Taxes
Driving Out Seniors?

Dear Editor:

Steam Roller, oh Steam Roller, where are thou going? We are just fulfilling an order given by the school board. We are going to roll over our senior citizens. Yes, we are, big time. Tax increase big time, 5.4 percent tax increase, then, big Wilson Ferguson recommended a slightly higher tax increase, five mills, which would bring an additional $50. Well, how sweet it is. It would be nice for us senior citizens if we could keep that $50 for a rainy day and draw some interest on it.

Yes, steam roller, just go and give the teachers and business managers and staff whatever they ask for. The health insurance, right along with the banana cream pie. How sweet it is. The senior citizen can go without their needs. They can sell their homes and go without health insurance. You teachers have the best-paying jobs in the county, and you’re crying the blues.

Maybe we all are crying today. We are the poorest county, with the highest job loss. Why the highest? We have no business here. The Mildred Shoe Building or Matters Building? The biggest laugh of the century. It might as well be torn down. You have destroyed a big building, which could have employed many. You shredded it up like a piece of paper. No brawn, no gain, what a shame. A running factory here would help the economy here. The seniors could live much better if a younger generation were employed here to ease tax burden and school business. The county has mainly retired senior citizens, living on a fixed income. We have to live on less and less every day. The cost of living increasing, Medicare costs out of this world, gas, food prices, insurances and home repairs all on a fixed income. It’s no picnic. Many say I wish I was retired and didn’t have to work. It’s no dream. You will soon wish you were young again and out of this county.

If the teachers want more and more, perhaps they should seek employment in a bigger, growing community. The school board has their blinders on. They can’t see or hear or understand what living in Sullivan County is all about. The county consists of mainly seniors. A lot of young people don’t stay here because there are no jobs, no future, no hope. They have been sold out by the leaders of their county.

What more does the school board expect us seniors to give? Many of us have lost homes, tormented our minds and been placed in nursing homes or mental homes. You don’t seem to care what it costs us. Money, money, money, the root of all evil. We can’t pay what we don’t have.

One thing you can’t take from us, is our faith in God. This is above all our assets and perhaps what more people should seek.

Commissioners, please don’t go out of your way making the county a bigger, brighter place, if it’s at the expense of our elderly. Why not get together with town business people, and outside prospective business people and brainstorm? Ask our representatives for help. Bring Sullivan County back to life.

I feel we have been sold out by the commissioners and the school board. Where are our leaders? May God bless and protect us, and may God forgive them, for they know not what they have done to us, our community and county.

Harold Bedford,
Forksville

Dear Sir,

I was surprised to see the picture in the Wyalusing Rocket-Courier of my mother’s graduating class of Auburn Center, 1910.

She was Sarah Lucille Chase, the third girl from the left, sitting on the settee. I don’t know any of the others. I’m sorry mother didn’t write the names on the back of her picture.

I think the third male from the left was the professor and I think his last name was Tingley.

I believe you will find one of the girls is related to you. Seems like Overfield sounds like a name she talked about.

If you get names from others, I would be pleased to know them.

Doris Sebring,
PO Box 81
South Montrose, PA

By the way, Lucille Chase married Charles R. Newton and I was their second child. I am now 88.

 

Memorial Day Shines
Brightly in Towanda

Dear Editor:

On Memorial Day, the Towanda American Legion Post 42 featured two speakers to honor and remember our veterans and fallen comrades. Our first speaker was Bradford County Sheriff, Steve Evans. He spoke of our fallen deputies, as well as the meaning of Memorial Day for our deceased veterans. The second speaker, a local hometown fellow, was Charles Abell from Rome. The Rome man, son of retired veterinarian, Dr. Leonard and Ruth Abell, now lives North Carolina.

Mr. Abell entered active duty service as an enlisted soldier and concluded his Army career by retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He served two tours in Vietnam in various positions—Infantry Platoon Leader, Company Commander and Cobra attack helicopter pilot. He has received many medals including two Bronze Stars (valor), Purple Heart, 14 air medals (two for valor) and more. He is obviously a man of integrity and intellect. He is one of so many Bradford County people who has pride in America and was willing to fight for his country, not just one tour of duty, but two tours in Vietnam.

Charles Abell was appointed by the President as the Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on Nov. 15, 2002. He works directly with the Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld. He has the utmost respect for the secretary. Mr. Abell spoke of our troops in Iraq. He was very positive of the work of the Pentagon and of our American troops.

The Legion dining hall was packed, as well as the hallway. The Towanda High School Band performed, directed by Ms. Andria Mullen. The Weed singers performed. Mrs. Weed’s son, Jared, played Taps. Donna Dalpiaz sang, “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” She was great.

Mr. Abell’s father was a WWII veteran. As May 29 was to honor our WWII veterans, Commander Charles Davis, on behalf of the American Legion and State Representative Tina Pickett, member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, were able to present Mr. Abell citations to recognize his father, Leonard Abell, for service in WWII. Charlotte Gates and Leland Chandler, both past post commanders of Post 42 and others were great organizers of this memorial event.

Thank you,
Diane Elliott

Once Again ‘We’re
Best of the Worst’

Editor:

Well, we did it again.

The North American Truckers Association has voted Pennsylvania the worst roads in the United States for the third straight year. You would think that with the amount of tax that is collected every day from the sale of gas and diesel fuel, and the tax from all the cars that are sold, both new and used, that our highways would be paved in gold. And, that is just a small amount of revenue that is collected for highway construction and maintenance.

How about all the registrations, driver’s licenses, inspection fees and fines issued every single day in a state that is far from being a small state? Where in the world is all that money going? It is also very obvious that PENNDOT is not capable of keeping up with the tasks that they are responsible for taking care of. I think that it may be time for this state to contract out the job of doing something about the deplorable conditions of our roads.

Tom Dunn,
Wyalusing

 

Dairy Princess
Thanks Local Paper

Editor:

Just a note of appreciation for publishing my articles this year and for showing support of the dairy promotion program and dairy farming industry. I very much appreciated it.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Shana Mack,
Susquehanna County Dairy Princess

 

Motorists Getting Tax Break in
New York?

Editor:

It might be of interest to your readers that right now, New York State is considering suspending the state gas tax for the summer tourist season. Also, they are encouraging the counties to consider suspending the county taxes, as well. This is meant to encourage tourism in the state, which amounts to more income than the gas tax. Maybe heading North isn’t such a bad idea. I am a local Pennsylvania resident in the winter, but during the summer, I live in Northern New York.

The gas prices here right now are as bad or worse, but if the legislation passes, it will mean at least a .16 cent per gallon savings.

Bill Rhinevault
Meshoppen or Millens Bay, NY

 

They’re Left Confused
By Township Clean-up

Dear Editor,

We would like to express our disappointment in the Wilmot Township Clean-up. We loaded up our truck with things we needed to get rid of. When we arrived at the township building, we were informed that the only thing they were taking was metal.

We had a few items we left, but had to bring the rest home and we burned it. Needless to say, we were pretty upset.

Next year when the ad for Wilmot Township cleanup is to appear, would the supervisors please explain exactly what they will be taking?

Sincerely,
Norris and Judy Mosier

Who’s Really Protected
From Abuse With PFA’s?

Editor:

I can’t help wonder who was in office, that is, who were our representatives when Protection From Abuse legislation was enacted? Or what was the inspiration for this type of action? Was it perhaps something that sprung out of an eighth grade civics class discussion? Surely, it could be made simpler than what it is.

At the present time, one spouse can get a protection from abuse order, PFA, without any trouble, whatsoever. This also gives that person the ability to stalk the subject of the PFA and again have them arrested.

I have never been the subject of a PFA, but I do have knowledge of a person who had to move because the complainant in the PFA lived across the street. In another situation, a Towanda area woman obtained a PFA, went stalking the male subject of the PFA and completely destroyed the automobile he was driving on the Main Street of Wyalusing. (This would cause one to wonder, which of the two represented a danger to the other).

It should not come as a complete surprise to our representatives in Harrisburg that, at times, people may lie to police officers or magistrates in order to extend their personal wrath and for reasons that do not always rise to the level of abuse.

And what of these people, who, for whatever reason, are in so much fear that they make contact with the very person they’re supposed to fear or have, at least, reported so.

The legislators have not only failed to correct these flaws in the system, they have failed to think in the first place. A simple solution might be a peace bond, issued by a constable, specifying a court date for both parties to appear at the office of a magistrate. And, someone should pay the fine whether they’re holding hands or not.

Marty Meehan,
Wyalusing

Services for Local Seniors
Provided by Office

Dear Editor:

May is the month for the entire nation to give special recognition to older adults in their communities. This year’s Older Americans Month theme, “Aging Well, Living Well,” was selected to celebrate and recognize older Americans who are living longer, healthier and more productive lives.

Programs established under the Older Americans Act, enacted in 1965, have been the foundation of community-based services, which are evolving to meet the needs of our increasing older population. A network of 900 Area Agencies on Aging nationwide strive to promote the principle of the Older Americans Act that older citizens are entitled to spend their retirement years in good health, living with independence and dignity.

Locally, the B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging, with our office located in Towanda, helps older citizens and their families in Bradford County in a variety of different circumstances and needs. But the Area Agency on Aging is no longer just a “broker” of services like home-delivered meals and personal care—it is a community resource for members of our Senior Community of all income levels and for their families, offering a wealth of information on topics of interest to seniors, health and wellness programs, educational programs and guidance about long-term care options.

On behalf of the B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging, I would like to thank the Rocket-Courier, members of community groups, churches and individuals in Bradford County who are actively helping to get the word out about the existence of the Area Agency on Aging.

We also thank the many individuals and church groups who have stepped in to help seniors when the demand for some services exceeds the resources available for a service to be provided immediately. We also wish to recognize many of these same individuals and all caregivers for their ongoing help to older citizens in our area.

We ask for your continued assistance in reaching out to older citizens to let them know about the Area Agency on Aging as a community resource. We encourage older citizens to contact our Towanda office at (570) 265-6121 or 1-800-982-4346 for more information about our agency.

We salute all members of our senior community for their valuable contributions to their families and our communities, whatever their current health status or wherever they make their home.

Sincerely,
Bill Farley
Executive Director

 

Crediting Rosy Economy to
Bush’s Tax Cuts

Dear Rocket-Courier:

The economy is robust, new jobs are being created and the unemployment rate is dropping across the country.

This is the eighth straight month of job gains with over 1.1 million jobs created nationally since last August.

Employment over the last year was up in 45 states, and the unemployment rate declined in all regions and in 47 states.

President Bush’s Jobs and Growth tax relief package helped drive the strong improvement in our economy. It raised the level of economic activity and productivity, which will result in higher incomes and living standards for American workers.

It has once again been demonstrated that lower taxes always result in a stronger economy. When we cut the tax rates, everyone gets a tax cut.

Sincerely,
Mark Cochenour
Monroeton

 

Her Advice: Don’t Trust
All of Your Visitors

Dear Editor:

I have two little dogs I tie out on my lawn every day when the weather is in their favor.

One dog has a tie chain attached to a stake, for that purpose, in the ground. The other dog has two chains. One of those chains is a lightweight, old-fashioned chain I have had for years. That chain was fastened to a limb on a tree for the last 12 years, and I left it there all the time until last fall when I decided I’d take it in to the basement with the other chains.

During the late fall and winter months, I had four service repairmen here for different repairs in the basement to heating equipment only. Two of those people I was with at all times. The other two I was not. This spring, when I went to tie my dogs out, the lightweight chain was missing. I had dropped all the chains and the “stake out” in a lawn chair, stored inside for the winter.

Now, someone took that chain, and it has to be one of the two. No other people were in the basement until spring, and the person who took the chain is a service technician. I hope he enjoys the chain. I cannot buy another like it anywhere.

Thank you,
Iva S. Champluvier

P.S. Just want to remind others you can’t trust everybody who comes into your home to work on your equipment.

 

System Seems To Work
Against Truly Deserving

Dear Editor:

How can one put a price on one’s quality standards of life? One can say it’s whatever you want to make of it. Life sometimes dishes out the unexpected. Suppose you had a daughter who died tragically and unexpectedly. She left behind two children, ages five and 15 for you to raise. As you try to cope with the loss of your daughter, you have many questions from her children. Does mommy have wings now? How can I talk to her in heaven? The 15 year old, I’m sure, misses her mom, as well. She needs her mother more now than ever.

Grandma and Grandpa have big hearts and took the children in, trying at all costs to avoid foster care. Grandpa drives truck over the road, which doesn’t allow him as much time at home. Grandma’s role makes for long days, dealing the whole time with the loss of their own daughter.

The children’s financial needs are great; food, clothing, extra laundry, everything a household needs to survive. Grandma went to see if she could get some help with food one day. She was told that Grandpa makes a few bucks too many to get extra help with food. The sad part of this situation was the grandkids had two pet dogs and guess what? This really takes the cake, and brings tears to my eyes. She’s left with no help for the children, but with four bags full of dog food. Why are animals given help over precious, motherless children? This breaks my heart.

We can replace all elected officials and nothing will change because they all seem to drink the same water. They are all exposed to the same poison. They don’t care about the people, it’s dog eat dog. The rich get richer, the poor get poorer.

It’s not only our children, it’s our fixed income elderly, our medicare, our servicemen and veterans. We have a lot of veterans waiting to get medical attention. I ask where is our government? Where are our representatives, commissioners and our local government? I graduated 48 years ago, and I still see no change in this county and those around us. We can send American jobs overseas, food overseas, our great military overseas to improve life for others overseas. Why can’t we do any better for our own communities and country? It’s a shame.

Our churches are becoming smaller in attendance. Our children find entertainment in vices like drugs and alcohol. Our government has failed, on both local and state levels. We are in need of good paying jobs, lower college costs and better medical care for seniors.

We need the jobs still here in the USA when these college grads graduate. If not, how do they pay back their college loans, with no jobs? It’s a dog eat dog world, and if you can’t keep up with the big dogs, you had better stay on the porch. If not in today’s society, you’ll fall through the cracks. Once you’re down in the cracks, you won’t get the help to pull out.

Please God, help our little children, our elderly and our armed forces. Help all our veterans and all the Grandpas and Grandmas. I care, do you? If so, where are you?

Harold Bedford,
Forksville

Couldn’t Have Done
It Without Them

Dear Editor:

One week from today I will be experiencing something that I have desired for many years, graduating from college. Following the death of my husband, Del, I set my goal to finally achieve the twice before pursued, but never attained accounting degree. As I look forward to next Saturday, I have some thoughts that I wanted to share with my classmates at the Towanda Center of Lackawanna College and with anyone who may be thinking about going back to school or continuing their education in some way.

Attending college is an experience that should be treasured, revered, enjoyed and possible for everyone. Our college education is not something that we have accomplished on our own, and we must not take those who have contributed to making it possible for granted. It takes many people to make this work. Let me try to thank on behalf of my friends in the Class of 2004, some of the people who have made this possible.

First of all, we must thank our families for doing the dishes so that we could get to class on time, watching the kids, helping with the laundry and other domestic duties.

For those of you who have encouraged your child to do this in a more traditional fashion, that is attending college soon after high school, we say thank you for transportation, financial assistance and moral support.

For the spouses or significant others of those who have returned to college as non-traditional students, we say thank you for being patient while we may not have contributed financially to the family, and for your consideration when we had to study for the tests or write a paper. Thank you, especially to my husband, Dave, who inherited the study routines when we started dating.

And to our children, some of whom are the inspiration for making this possible, we say thank you for understanding when we could not attend your baseball game or concert when we had class. Thank you for accepting less than your fair share of our home time while we prepared for the next class.

There are others as well who have contributed greatly to this day. Beginning with the staff of the college, help with financial aid, making sure that all of the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted so that we don’t have to worry about the logistics of our educational endeavor. Lackawanna College has a wonderful reputation for the assistance offered in so many areas and for that, we say thank you.

And, of course, no college education would be complete if it were not for the instructors. As is the case for many of us, we have full-time jobs and must constantly juggle our homework and study time with hours spent gainfully employed. Many also have families and this, too, demands much of our time. Our faculty has, on so many occasions, worked with us when we fell short of our deadlines and goals. Remembering that the reason we are in class is to learn and achieve, they have often extended deadlines enabling us to turn in our best work with minor penalties. To you all, we say thank you. Memories made in the classroom will follow us throughout the rest of our lives.

And finally to each other, we must extend a heartfelt thank you. We have studied together, shared notes, encouraged each other, laughed and, yes, even cried together. The friendships made sitting together in class for a semester will remain even if time and miles separate us. We will never forget the student who will never shut up or the student who falls asleep because they work swing shift. Never to be forgotten are the students who share their soul with the class, or the students who make coming to class an enjoyable experience. We shall never forget those who started this adventure with us, but for many reasons did not finish it with us. The students from the Towanda Center will especially not forget Mike VanKuren. Mike, like myself, was a non-traditional student who managed to juggle school with work and his beloved family. When tragedy took him so quickly and senselessly from us just a few weeks ago, a hole was left in our lives that cannot be repaired or replaced. Mike was a wonderful man with a positive attitude that was contagious among the younger students who admired him and respected him. As I thought about things to say in this letter, I could not help but think that Mike VanKuren would have made a marvelous class representative for this graduating class and, in his memory, I would like to say thank you to everyone who has made our graduation day possible.

To my children I personally would like to say thank you for understanding how important this has been to me. Autumn and Chris are also in college and could identify with the weekend paper writing and studying that I did. And I know that while Andy was serving his country, twice in the desert so far from home and Mom, he too has encouraged me. You are the best.

To my fellow classmates, be positive, stay the course, strive for the gold and take the memories and knowledge you have gained here at Lackawanna College with you to make the world a better and safer place to live and enjoy.

Roxy Gilbert-Wells,
New Albany
WVHS Class of 1973

Salvation Army Thanks You
For Your Support

Dear Editor,

As Salvation Army Week comes to an end, The Salvation Army Service Extension Unit of Bradford and Sullivan Counties would like to sincerely thank those communities for their continued support of our organization. Many people work behind the scenes throughout the year to keep The Salvation Army a strong support system for “neighbors in need” of these communities.

The Salvation Army offers many programs during the year such as: Camp LaDore for children ages seven to 12 (for which we are currently accepting applications), the Back to School clothing program that takes place just before each new school year, the League of Mercy program that provides gifts to the residents of personal care facilities and the Salvation Army Angel Tree at Christmas, providing gifts to local needy children.

Support for the Salvation Army SEU comes from countless volunteers, from the bell ringers manning the red kettles at Christmas time collecting donations, to everyone that walks by the kettle and offers up their spare dollars and change. Volunteers also help with the registration for campers going to Camp LaDore; chaperones for the bus trip to camp; helping moms and kids shop for the Back to School program; delivering packages to the nursing homes and personal care homes for the League of Mercy at Christmas and many families and organizations that choose an “angel” from the angel tree to provide a needy child with gifts making it a joyous and wonderful Christmas.

Thank you, volunteers, for the many ways you assist your community and neighbors in need. The Bradford and Sullivan Counties Salvation Army SEU is truly blessed by your giving of yourselves to others.

God bless.

Betty Ellen Barrett, Regional Coordinator; Doug McLinko, County Chairperson; Dawn Lamb, SEU Field Director; Sharon Wilson, Treasurer; Connie Williams, Co-Signer; Eric Heffner, Troy Volunteer; Charles Bullock, Wyalusing Volunteer; Mr. and Mrs. William Bushong, Rome Volunteers (retired); Jerry Coleman, Sullivan County Volunteer, and Debbie Moyer, Office Assistant

He Says Schrader
Showed Disloyalty

Dear Ms. Schrader,

The purpose of this letter is to furnish you with a name (a signature, if you will) that reflects my absolute disapproval of your conduct during your campaign for public office.

Your comments, “Let’s keep the team in place” amounted to an act of disloyalty to the Republican party, for which you should apologize, and humbly so. When Mr. McLinko won the nomination, he was entitled to your support; unless you had reasonable just cause not to support the Republican nominee.

Another method you might have considered was the possibility of a coalition ticket. But it appears that you were either ignorant of the process or just didn’t care what other Republicans thought.

My own experience is: That when I wrote to all the commissioners prior to the election; in which I reported difficulty with Sheriff Evans in that he refused to allow me a duplicate blood test, which is required when requested by law Title 75, 1547. His actions (refusal) rendered me defenseless. I received no reply from the commissioners. That includes you, Ms. Schrader.

I would seriously recommend that you stop whining about things that you brought about yourself, and come up with some serious improvements besides asking for volunteers to show people about the courthouse. Where did you get the idea, from the Wal-Mart store?

Marty Meehan
Wyalusing

 

PENNDOT Thanks
Volunteers in Cleanup

Editor:

All of us at PENNDOT District 4-0 would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the volunteers, both individuals and groups, who took part in last month’s Great Pennsylvania Cleanup. There is no more discouraging sign of spring than the vast amount of litter that appears along our roadways when the snow melts. There is also no more encouraging sign of community pride than the thousands of volunteers who help clean up that mess each year.

PENNDOT spends more than 10 million dollars each year on litter cleanup. That figure would be thee to four times more, if it weren’t for the volunteers who help us remove litter from our roadways.

The Great Pennsylvania Cleanup on April 24 was a big success in Northeastern Pennsylvania this year, thanks to the volunteers who gave up their time to make this area a better place for all of us.

We thank them and all of the volunteers who help us keep the highways cleaner year round through the PENNDOT Adopt-a-Highway Program.

It’s one thing to sit back and complain about all the litter on the highways; it’s quite another to actually do something about it. All of us who travel on the roadways of Northeastern Pennsylvania should be grateful that so many volunteers take the initiative each year to help Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.

Very truly yours,
Robert T. Doble, P.E.
Acting District Executive
Scranton

What Gets Reported:
Is Media Selective?

Dear Editor:

Just a few issues.

Why do I read quite often about Dr. Cama in the paper? (Sounds like he is quite a bad person?). There is not a finer person or doctor in the area. So why is nothing ever good written about him? I have known him since he has come to town about 22 years ago, give or take a year. He has always been there and has helped my family and me many times. Money was never an issue with him. I can call him day or night and he would do everything he can do to help me with whatever the problem might be. How many others would do that for someone? I can say not too many.

What about the problem Canton Borough had with the money disappearing? Seems to be in this case a person is innocent until proven guilty. So, we won’t mention this incident to anyone or read about it in the newspaper (out of sight, out of mind). What are the chances of this issue completely disappearing?

What about the cop who goes around telling others that this person is on meth, or really into it heavy? But the person has never been questioned, picked up or arrested for it. But this same cop has been at parties and it sure wasn’t a cake and ice cream party.

What about the shooting on Bridge Street? Thought a person had to be inside your home before you could shoot them. Must be the law has changed.

The last issue I have is my father, who has been gone almost seven years. He was assaulted three times, twice outside as he was going from his truck to the house and once when he answered the door. He was knocked out and robbed. It was reported to the authorities and that was the end of it. Case closed . . .

So, what do all these issues have to say? Guess it depends on who you are.

Debbie Reeves,

Towanda

(Editor’s Note: The writer makes some valid points about what does and doesn’t get covered. For the record:

— We haven’t been covering the Dr. Cama civil case. The local daily seems to be all over that;

— There are still active investigations regarding the Canton Municipal Authority and Brenda Mott, and we will report the news as thoroughly as possible when, and if, it breaks, and

— We have provided regular updates on the Bridge Street homicide, but it is still up to the DA to file charges).

Let’s Return Law
To Common Sense

Dear Editor:

Common Law: A system of laws, precedents and customs that the average person could understand; a system that was practiced and perfected for hundreds of years and refined to a point where an average person didn’t need a lawyer for everything that might have brought him or her to court.

Not so today. Thanks to the mischief of our elected officials that have enacted something they call a Crimes Code, the Vehicle Code and other legislation they (our elected representatives) have managed to complicate at the expense of the public. It appears, at least to me, that these representatives are acting so as to drum up business for law firms; and I know from personal experience that they are unavailable to me. But I did receive more than enough campaign mail to start a large bonfire. At times when I was able to contact the offices of the lawmakers for clarification of a law, I was advised to seek the services of an attorney.

I think this Commonwealth and this country are going to face hard times, the like they have never seen. When this occurs, the courts will not have all the time they take so leisurely today, to bring matters to court.

A possible answer to this problem is a Citizens Judicial Review Board. This board could be composed of community leaders, such as the fire chief and other drafted members for specified periods of time. Their duties would be to examine cases to determine if fairness was applied. If the person received adequate representation and if the punishment is reasonable and commensurate with the offense.

Common Law is based on “what would a reasonable man do under given circumstances?” There does not seem to be room for that type of thinking in Harrisburg. The next time we elect, we would be wise to vote out the incumbents. When you hear a politician brag about 30 years of experience, ask yourself what has happened in 30 years.

Marty Meehan
Wyalusing

More Dogs, Fewer
Spines in Powell?

Dear Editor:

I’ve lived in the town of Powell for some 35 years now and that was before common sense left. The dogs took over and the non-dog owners have been looking for their spines ever since.

The dog owners have focused their ire in my direction when I write my letters of facts, but all non-dog owners have complained of this idiocy, but got no backbone to complain to the dog owners. Have you non-dog owners noticed at least a dozen or more dogs have moved into Powell in the last few weeks?

I hope they bring more in and place them in front of your spineless property. I may join in and get me a couple of mutts.

Vincent R. Calaman
Helen M. Calaman

Dear Editor:

Bring our troops home, and not in body bags stuffed in flag-draped coffins loaded onto cargo planes. This so called “100 year war on terrorism” can be traced back to Dick Cheney’s 1992 policy for American World Dominance at the behest of the Council on Foreign Relations. This policy was refined in 1997 by Cheney, Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz and titled “Project For The New American Century” (PNAC).

Drafted as a plan for American world dominance, expansionism for the Satanic New World Order seems to be the underlying motive. In a recent speech after a black tie dinner for journalists, President Bush made light of the war in Iraq by jokingly saying, “Those weapons of mass destruction gotta be somewhere” and “no weapons over there” as a picture was displayed of him searching in our White House oval office. Meanwhile, as our sons and daughters are comic strip headlines living in harm’s way, twin bills have been introduced to revive the national draft to include both men and women between the ages of 18 to 26. The House version is HB 163, and it’s S 89 in the Senate titled “Universal National Service Act of 2003.”

Twenty-eight million dollars has been appropriated to the Selective Service System’s budget in preparation for a draft. The Pentagon is currently attempting to fill 11,070 appeals board and 10,350 draft board positions nationwide. On April 20, Senator Chuck Hagel pleaded with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to revise the draft. Of course, you won’t see their kids shipped to the front lines as they order our young adults out.

When I look at a warmonger, I can see black gold in their pupils and Iraq tea on their brains. The love of money is the root of all evil, so just follow the money trail to see the Devil in the details.

Not only does the war machine cost a lot of tax money to maintain, it produces much financial gain for mega-corporations in the supply aspect.  We also cover the costs for rebuilding war-torn areas through corporations such as Halliburton at the helm, while CEOs wait at the bank. While $400 million is added for short-term war financing on top of billions already spent, veterans’ hospitals are being closed everywhere.

What a huge slap in our veterans’ faces from the country they loved and many died for. Why should our children be forced into becoming cannon fodder ponds of advancement for international bankers’ initiatives, just as their dreams of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are within reaching distance? Why haven’t high school and college students been more vocal against conscription? I volunteered my time in service to this country by my own free will, and that’s the way it should remain—voluntary.

Rich Saporito
West Mifflin, PA

‘Shock and Awe’ Rob
U.S. of Its Dignity

Dear Editor:

As a veteran of the first Gulf War, I am enraged. President Bush has put American troops in positions that no soldier—no human being—should ever have to endure. Our country has truly been compromised by the shock and awe of death and human abuse. I pray that the next president can end this crisis with dignity.

Sincerely,
Lee Rozelle
Thorsby, PA

 

News Media Eager
To Pass Judgment?

Dear Editor:

What is all the carrying on by Congress who wants Secretary Rumsfield to account for the treatment of Iraqi prisoners? Is it a particular shame that they may have been mistreated, or is it more of a shame that we are receiving young men in flag-draped coffins? How did these prisoners come into American custody anyway?

People who have worked in any type of custody situations, such as prisons, know that communication goes two ways, that guards are subject to much of the same unwholesome environment as prisoners are. And without having a reasonable chance to clear their minds may be subject to some forms of depravity, much of it learned from their captives.

In any case, call me crazy, but I’ll bet those soldiers involved never dreamed that they would be involved in feeding and caring for homicidal maniacs. These soldiers should be treated for their problems, that our military brought to them; and politicians and media should not be so eager to rush to judgment.

Martin J. Meehan

 

He Blames Sin
On Liberal System

Dear Editor:

This country and the rest of the world are in chaos and the reason is “sin.” The liberal educational system indoctrinates students in ethics education, values clarification and/or self-esteem training. Why does all this training allow right and wrong to be subjective? What has changed from 1954 to the present day?

The Bible was once required reading in public schools and is now banned. The Ten Commandments that emanated from the Bible, as well as school prayer, are also banned. Without the absolutes provided by God’s Word, we have a murder rate among the 15 to 19 year olds that has increased by 154 percent. All sexual restraint has been taught to be prudish and that indulgence is appropriate. Teenage pregnancy has increased dramatically and sexually-transmitted diseases now have infected 25 percent of our young people.

Who is responsible? There is a long list starting with the ACLU, NEA, but most prominently, the liberal Democrats. If this trend continues, we will lose our freedom and all that we hold dear as Americans.

Now we have the most liberal senator in Congress running for president of the USA.

Does anyone really believe that he can have a positive effect on this nation?

Please pray for and support our president, G.W. Bush, since he represents the values that made America great.

Edwin J. Makarevich
Kunkletown

Dear Dave,

It was sad to see this past Sunday morning at about 7:30 a.m., a cow calmly sitting in the parking area of the Wyalusing sale barn. It’s probably a good guess that it was waiting for the rendering truck, but at the least, the animal could have been given some water and there was none.

No, I’m not an animal rights “activist,” but I do believe that animals need to be cared for properly, even those who are dropped off to meet their eventual death.

If no one was going to be at the sale barn when the animal was dropped off, the person(s) who delivered it should have made sure it had water available. It didn’t leave a good impression.

Joyce Hails,
Oak Hill

 

Will DA Fight
For Death Penalty?

Dear Editor:

We have done it before in years past. People that have one have done the same thing in years past. It is an easily recognizable, powerful symbol to any who sees it. It usually evokes a, “I wonder what happened” question. It represents a respect being paid to the one(s) that it is intended for. It means something sad and sorrowful has happened, either by natural causes or suddenly. Either way, it means that a family is in mourning somewhere. It means that a community, county, state or country shares in that mourning. We are speaking of lowering the flag to half-staff, of course, something most of us did last week in honor of Mike and Chris. It was a vivid reminder every time we saw it, that we lost two very special people in this county in a tragic and brutal way. Something that hasn’t happened in the county in years and years and hopefully, will never happen again. I have seen the flag at half-staff several times over the years, and have lowered ours when asked to do so, but this time it was different. It was for someone I knew, someone I knew well and was good friends with. This time when I saw it, it was like a slap in the face, reminding me that Mike and Chris were gone. And the signs with the messages were powerful, too.

We were at the command post with our dogs for most of the time after it happened. I have been at other scenes where crimes have been committed and seen the professionalism and commitment that was present to get the crime solved. This time it was at a fever pitch. Even though there were few of us there who actually knew Mike and Chris, it was as though everyone there knew them. (I couldn’t help but think that if this had happened to other officers, Mike and Chris would have been there, too). Everyone was determined beyond description to get this guy. The technology present was mind-boggling. And thank God for cell phones. Lots of people went without sleep for all those hours, especially Sheriff Evans. Cops from across the state line were there, along with the New York State Police. Any help that was needed was given almost before it was asked for. There was no way that this guy was getting away. And the fire company and Red Cross were invaluable in keeping everyone fed and “watered.”

I never thought I would know someone who had been murdered, and certainly never dreamed that it would be someone I knew and cared so much about. Then to have it happen to another officer as well just made it that much harder to take. I’m sure most of the county thought the same thing. Certainly the people who worked with Mike and Chris never thought they would know anyone who was lost in this manner. And even worse, my grandson, who spent a very special Sunday dinner with Mike and Elane just a couple of weeks before it happened, knows someone who was murdered. This is scary. This isn’t supposed to happen in Bradford County, but it has.

I agree with Eric Knolles, something has to be done. His ideas were good ones, especially the one about the DA not making so many deals with these people. Another thing we need to do as a community is make sure the DA, who opposes the death penalty, understands that this is a death penalty case. If he can’t put his opinion aside, he should recuse himself and let someone who believes in the death penalty handle the case.

The death penalty was made for cases like this. Someone who has such complete disregard for human life doesn’t deserve to live either. He not only showed disregard for human life, he showed the ultimate disregard for the law, too. He needs to realize what he took away in his desire to keep from being arrested. He took officers away from their jobs and their co-workers. He took valuable members of their communities away. He took friends away from friends. He took sons away from mothers and fathers. He took fathers away from two sons and a daughter. He took away the breadwinners from their respective families. He took away lifestyles and comfort zones from their families. He took away husbands and lovers from their wives. He put an entire county on edge and in the grip of terror for the hours he was on the loose. He took away a certain innocence in this county, even though in these times it may have been a naive innocence.

A strong, clear message needs to be sent to him, and others, that this county and this DA aren’t going to take it anymore. That he isn’t going to be coddled nor is anyone else who commits a crime in this county. We need to stick together and do whatever it takes to make sure that Mike and Chris didn’t die in vain. It would be a travesty if that happened.

We, as officers, need to know that our DA is going to fight tooth and nail to do his best to help us with our fight against the “bad guys.” I, for one, don’t want to have to lower my flag again for another fallen officer. And I know I am not alone in feeling that way.

Nancy Mitchell
East Smithfield, PA

(Editor’s Note: District Attorney Stephen A. Downs reports he has argued for the death penalty in the past in the trials of James Watson and Fred House, and says he has filed notice in the in-court arraignment to seek the  death penalty for Thomas McKechnie in the shooting death of Dean Sturdevant last year.)

Where Was Rocket’s
Photographer?

Dear Editor:

My children and I attended the annual Easter Egg Hunt held recently in Wyalusing. They enjoyed it as they usually do; however, we left, feeling a little disappointed and irritated. I’d like to tell you why.

My daughter won a prize, and we were told to go to the fire hall for pictures. We went directly there, along with two other families, only to find that the photographer had already gone. Before we found that out, however, we were standing there waiting and wondering. Fortunately, someone figured out what we were there for, and told us she’d heard the photographer say, “that since only one child showed up for pictures, he was going home.”

We didn’t waste any time getting to the fire hall when we were told to report there, so I’m wondering if your photographer just didn’t realize the process involved.

Briefly, there are plastic eggs as well as hard-boiled on the field. You don’t keep the plastic eggs; they have to be turned in at the prize table. Some eggs have prize coupons in them, and they give you your prize when you present the coupon at the table. Whether or not you win a prize, you still have to wait in line to give back the plastic egg.

I’m sorry we weren’t fast enough for him, but this takes more than a few minutes. First of all, we had to stand in line and wait our turn, and then walk all the way across the ballpark to the fire hall.

Maybe the only child to “show up” for pictures didn’t have to wait in line long, was closer to the fire hall, or both. Whatever the case, children who were proud of their prizes, didn’t get their chance to be in the paper.

I realize this may seem trivial to a lot of people, especially those who are dealing with much more important issues in their lives. But on that day, at that moment, it was important to us. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Debbie Minturn

Our apologies. This was the first time since the Egg Hunt first started, over 20 years ago, that we haven’t had photos of the prizewinners. We wondered what happened. Now we know. WDK.

 

Dear Editor,

I am Brittany DeLancey, I am nine years old and I have had Type I Juvenile Diabetes for eight years. Last year, I joined a Walk-for-A-Cure team that raised over $7,100 for juvenile diabetes research and this year, I am joining that team again. Last year, I wrote and told you about how many times a day that I took shots, checked my blood sugar and how often I had to eat. I’m not going to tell you about myself again; I am going to tell you about someone we met during last year’s walk.

We met a grandmother of a two-year-old girl that has diabetes and listened to the terrible stories she told us about her granddaughter. Unfortunately, we did not get to meet the little girl or her mom because the girl was sick, due to diabetes complications. This grandmother told us about the difficulty they were having with her blood sugar and also about trying to find a doctor who had knowledge of Juvenile Diabetes. The doctor they were seeing said he could manage her diabetes, but they soon found out that he could not, and after the child being very sick and a great deal of time, they finally got a referral to a diabetes doctor, but again, it was a doctor who had no experience with a toddler and diabetes. This grandmother, along with the child’s parents, was told that the daughter probably would not live long because of diabetes complications. This family was torn with this news and because of insurances and needing referrals, they were limited on where they could take their daughter.

Luckily, through the experience we had with my diabetes and working with our insurances, along with having no insurance for a while, we were able to direct this family where to go to get other insurance and where to go for a Pediatrics Endocrinologist.

From what we hear, because we have not talked to this family in a while, this child still has up and down blood sugar (which is normal for a child), but overall, she is doing better, but unfortunately, she has suffered from some kidney and eye disease from the lack of correct diabetes medical attention and lack of available education for her family when she was first diagnosed.

Hopefully, this child can attend the walk this year, so we can meet her and see that she is doing better.

Brittany

This child, along with many other children with juvenile diabetes, including our daughter, is why we are again joining in the Walk-for-A-Cure for Juvenile Diabetes. A child with diabetes has a life of up and down blood sugar, having to check sugar constantly, taking insulin, having to eat even when they are not feeling well and having the dangers of losing limbs, losing eye sight, kidney disease and heart failure.

We will be walking a four-mile trail on Saturday, May 8; all money raised from this event will be for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. This foundation is the largest worldwide organization dedicated to finding a cure for diabetes.

We are asking you to please help us raise money to find a cure for diabetes by sending us a tax-deductible contribution, in any amount (checks can be made payable to JDRF). Please send your donations by Wednesday, May 5. Our address is RR 6, Box 6245H, Montrose, PA 18801.

We would like to thank you in advance for your support.

With sincere thanks,
Gene, Karin and Brittany DeLancey

 

Dear Rocket Courier Friends,

In the next week, I will be heading toward the last stretch of many important milestones in my life. I will be attending the last three hours of class this weekend and leaving behind, not just friends, but wonderful sources of inspiration.

Since January of this year, I have been working at the Rocket-Courier for credits toward my graduation from Keystone College. On Monday of this week, my 160 hours were met, and my internship had come to an end.

It has been a most pleasurable experience to write for the Rocket-Courier over the last few months. If you have never had the opportunity to meet the gang who puts together this paper, then you have truly missed out. They are friendly, dedicated and as real and personable as their editorials read.

A special thanks to Dave and Nancy Keeler, who accepted the challenge in sharing my internship. Thanks, also, for your full trust and the chance to meet so many interesting people from the surrounding communities.

Thanks to Wes Skillings, who helped me to understand what it takes to be a good writer. You are a creative mind, Wes, and one that we all benefit from on a weekly basis.

As I round the corner to the unknown, I am thankful and look forward to what my future holds. Thanks again for all your help.

Sincerely,
Dixie Casselbury

Dave,

I want to commend you on last week’s “The Way I See It.” The article was excellent and mirrors my feelings exactly. I am so sick and tired of listening to and reading articles from liberal Monday morning quarterbacks, who use the media to constantly degrade and humiliate our president. It is refreshing to read an article which actually defends him. Thank you for being so forthright.

Bill Hillis

Popular Swimming
Hole Needs Your Help

Dear Editor:

Stevensville Fish Rocks have been open for public swimming from as far back as I can remember. I understand that the owners are discussing the idea of closing this swimming place due to the amount of trash that is being left there.

I, myself, have gone there and found broken bottles, beer cans, dirty diapers, papers and such all over the area. I do know a few families that go there to swim and pick up other people’s trash and I say thank you from the bottom of my heart to them. There is a barrel provided for trash and it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bring an empty bag from your home to put your own trash in and dispose of it at home.

There aren’t many swimming places left in this area and it would be a shame to see this one closed. Many families haven’t the money to pay for their children to swim at the high school or the Comfort Inn and transportation to these places is sometimes very inconvenient.

So, please, if you use the Fish Rocks to swim or picnic, be responsible and pick up after yourselves. If this place is closed, it will affect many children, and our children need this place on hot summer days.

Sandy Hudak

 

Suspicious ‘Accidents’
May Be Terrorism

Dear Editor,

I am e-mailing the various components of our government to revisit the various “accidents” during the Clinton years to ascertain that they were not, in fact, terrorist acts. I mainly refer to Flight 800 in 1997 due to the concern that so many witnesses have come forward to report “some sort of fireworks or missile or rocket” flying from the ground to the plane that evening.

Also, Jamie Gorelick (of the 9-ll Commission) is alleged to have been involved in that investigation as well. I would like to know the truth.

Julie Them
Sayre

Commissioner’s
No Fan of KOZ

Editor:

From time to time, I feel compelled to report to the taxpayers of Bradford County on subjects that I believe are important to them and when I want to have my position not only clear, but in my own words.

On the subject of the KOZ’s “Keystone Opportunity Zone’s” there is a lot of misinformation and thinking from within the “Box.” Let me explain my position:

First there is no tax relief until the property is developed and is now less than six years, in which the county is concerned. If all were being developed at once, it would cost the county around $15K. There are seven sites being suggested to be submitted to the program by people both elected and unelected from different strategic areas in our county that would foster growth both by enlarging our tax base and creating more or retaining jobs, which would have a direct effect on our local economy. Bear in mind that prosperity comes from business growth in all forms, not from taxation and government spending. The tax and spend mentality in government is the problem, not the answer, along with the over regulations, this is why we are losing jobs in Pennsylvania. Simply because it is too expensive to do business here in all forms and at last count we are down over 1500 manufacturing jobs in Bradford County in the last few years.

The grandstanding and spinning against true economic development in over seven sites in key areas for growth while we have over 30,000 taxable parcels in our county, is very suspect to me, when there is no proof that developers are beating down the doors to get into Bradford County. When I was younger and both my parents worked at Sylvania we worried about layoffs, now we live in fear of our industries leaving and believing me, that would make some of the anti-growth gang happy. However, I would ask; without the right growth, who in the world will be paying the taxes that are going out of sight? I realize the people who only look in the box or want no change of growth ask about giving tax breaks? It always amazes me how both elected and unelected officials love frivolous grants to dump into projects by the millions under the name of Non Profit that usually pays nothing or very little back into the system. Need we wonder why our Pennsylvania Income Tax went up nearly 10 percent? Growth through grants creates a fool’s paradise, when the grant dries up you are now left holding the bag. I view grants quite simply, is it need or greed? None of it is “free” money.

After what happened in Western Bradford County, with the virtually overnight loss of 180 jobs with hardly a warning, we can no longer, in my view, just wait for something “to come our way,” economic development and job creation is more than just campaign talk, it is what will keep our kids n Bradford County and strengthen a very fragile tax base, and will start the process in which we need to focus, keeping our seniors in their homes.

Your County Commissioner,
Doug McLinko

 

Where Have All
The Flags Gone?

Editor:

Several months ago, following the 9-11 unprovoked attack, you were kind enough to print my letter in your paper, the theme of which was, “Flying flags is not the complete answer.” Now the situation has worsened in Iraq and the flags have all but disappeared. I have to ask myself, why is this the case?

The only answer I can conjure up is politics. It appears that people want to be on the winning side, no matter which one it is. But these same people, most of whom have never served their country, such as Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, will stay well back of the finish line in order not to reveal their particular politics until the race is over, thereby being able to say to the winners, “I was with you all the time.”

To paraphrase a song that was popular by people of liberal persuasion during the early seventies, when Richard Nixon was cleaning a mess created by “The beloved John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson” (I refer, of course, to the Vietnam quagmire): “Where have all the American flags gone? In a very short time passing.” The answer is simple. When the going gets tough, the indifferent, those well off, the ignorant and the cowards, get out of the way.

It is past time we started support for our troops and an abiding love for our country. Our so-called dignitaries should be attending military funerals and be on hand to welcome our young men as they arrive home from foreign lands.

At present, our legislators, in my opinion, are busy creating laws that are intended to confuse and beguile the average person, thereby requiring the representation of an attorney who will keep you just as confused.

In the final analysis, an accused person will end up standing at the mercy of an individual in black robes more closely resembling the raven or other dark and sinister parasite. These monies and recourses should be diverted from foolish drug testing, which has proven to be inaccurate, to aid veterans returning home. The public should take into account that they have spent months intensively teaching these brave men and women to fight and kill. These are not skills you unlearn in one day. We should be exalting the men who served, and the politicians should be on their knees thanking them for their ability to run for office in free elections.

Another matter that I find perplexing: Didn’t an incumbent Republican commissioner suggest that a Democrat be elected over Douglas McLinko stating, “Let’s keep the team” or words to that effect?  (I took it to mean vote for the Democrat rather than McLinko, a Republican). If this is, in fact, the case, this commissioner should return all Republican monies that were spent at her expense during the campaign.

Martin J. Meehan
Wyalusing

Dear Editor Keeler:

In last week’s editorial you attempted to absolve President Bush of any pre 9-11 mistakes. You chose to blame Carter and Clinton. Somehow you chose to leap-frog over the Reagan and George H.W. Bush administration.

I hope all of your opinions are not purely partisan.

Eugene Barrett

Although they surely had their faults, Presidents Reagan and Bush were never accused of making decisions that limited our nation’s ability to defend itself. WDK

 

Editor:

I was surfing the web this morning on the hunt for some information to finish up something I was writing. I had heard of a specific terror plot inside California that had been thwarted. This specific plot involved chemical or biological weaponry and a sports stadium. I think I saw it on the Discovery Channel. Anyway, as I was doing my research and I began typing different dates followed by the phrase, “terror plot in America,” I was having a hard time finding this particular story–but something else was occurring with each entry I made.

Page upon page of suspected or thwarted terror plots was unveiled right before my eyes. It was astonishing to me, as I realized that most of these threats I had never even known of. It made me pause and think for a moment. It sort of put things into perspective and inspired this writing. I came to a conclusion with trepidation: these terrorists would not quit until they have reached their goals or were destroyed.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not a naive person, I knew Al Qaeda and others were continuously planning to kill us. It was just that I had kind of relaxed a bit. I guess time and security does that to a person. I began to think about 9/11 again. I thought about the scene of the trade towers. I thought about the people who had jumped to their deaths to avoid burning. These were everyday people, and it could have been my family.

The point of this writing is to remind everyone as I have been reminded.  It is to realize that another major attack on our country would be devastating. I began to think about our president. How bold the moves he has taken. How effective his policies have been in keeping us safe. There has not been one attack on our homeland since Sept. 11, 2001. Our economy has begun to grow again. We again feel safe. Still, I can’t forget my wake-up call and the fact that this is far from over. Every other issue on the table pales in comparison to this war on terrorism. Without our continued safety, there is no economy. There is no health care for a dead man. I can remember the tears in George W. Bush’s eyes after 9/11. I remember his response and his promise to do everything in his power to keep us safe and destroy those who want to destroy us.

The next four years are crucial. The president has been steadfast, determined and unafraid. I thank him for keeping my family safe. He has kept his word, and that is enough to earn my vote come November.

Sincerely,
Richard Leone, Jr.
Waterbury, PA

 

Enjoys Reading
Rocket-Courier

Hello from Pittsburgh…….. I have enjoyed reading your paper online for the last several months. It is nice to see what a “down-home” paper is really like. Being from the big city, our paper is so voluminous, that it is hard to read the whole paper every day. Yes, we do get a newspaper every day of the week. I find your paper of special interest to me because my husband and I visit Laceyville several times a year, and our best friends live there. They own Riverside Bait and Tackle Shop.

We so look forward to our visits with our friends and also enjoying some wonderful fishing. We have had so many good times the last several years, and last summer we went to our first cow pie bingo down in Black Walnut. The previous year we attended the Wyoming County Fair, and we have a friend up in Troy and we visited their annual county fair. Laceyville is a lovely little town, and we look forward to getting away from the “fast” living of city life in Pittsburgh.

I have also taken advantage of your wonderful facilities at Tyler Hospital, (not that I had a choice), but I was treated with the utmost professional and personal care that you do not get in the big city. I thank all the doctors and nurses that took care of me, and I am eternally grateful to all of them.

I just wanted to briefly express my thoughts of past visits and to let you know that we are looking forward to many more relaxing times with our friends and sharing the experiences of your little town and all that you have to offer. Oh, by the way, I really love Eb’s Market and all the friendly people there. And also your hardware store, where I get my fishing license every year. Looking forward to seeing all of you this summer.

Lynn Holzer
Pittsburgh

 

Sign Theft May
Endanger Your Life

April 19-24 is “Rural Road Safety Week.” Obviously there are many safety problems with our rural roads, so where do we start? Our County Communications Center, in conjunction with the townships and boroughs, will be readdressing our entire county for 9-1-1 emergency service.

Why, you ask? For example, my address is RR1, Hallstead; my neighbor to the west is RR1, Brackney and my neighbor to the south is RR3, Montrose; even given our box numbers, who could find us in an emergency? Now, I could tell you that we all are near the intersection of Tripp Lake and Jones Creek Road, but guess what? The signs have been stolen, which brings me to the point of this letter.

Readdressing will require renaming a number of roads so that there is a continuity of names across township and borough lines. This will require that we install new road name signs and replace the many missing signs. Each time a sign is replaced, the average cost is about $100 for materials and labor. One township alone has 40 missing signs as of April 6, which will cost the township approximately $4,000 of your taxpayer dollars. If current trends continue, some of the replaced signs will be gone within 24 hours and many within a few weeks. The time and dollars spent could be better spent. You may be asking yourself why do we need the signs; why not leave them down and save money?

I wish everyone could spend a shift at the 9-1-1 center; it is amazing the people who call for help and don’t know the name of their road or even what municipality they live in because they have never seen the missing road sign most of which also include the municipality name.

Now, imagine you’re an ambulance, fire, police or a mutual aid company (from out of the county or state) and not familiar with the area, you’re trying to locate a person having a heart attack and there are no road name signs.

The Susquehanna County Township Officials Association has decided to offer a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those stealing or damaging township road signs (see ad in this paper).

Please remember it could be you or a loved one having that heart attack. Please call the State Police at (570) 465-3154 or 465-3156, or your municipal police with information on any stolen or damaged signs. T`his includes road names, stop signs and warning signs. Together we can put a stop to this serious threat to our safety, wasted time in an emergency and the time and money of the municipalities.

Bill Bayne, President
Susquehanna Co. Twp. Officials

He Says Disarming
Americans No Answer

Editor:

Democrats/Liberals are doing everything in their power to disarm the American public. They claim that their success in this endeavor would make America safer. I will prove that this assertion is false and that is not their objective. If the liberals succeed, what will happen?

1. Americans would be deprived of the ability to defend their lives and property. U.S. citizens defend themselves over 2,000,000 times per year;

2. States that allow citizens to carry concealed weapons have about 30 percent less violent crime than states that severely restrict the use of guns;

3. Doctor Gary A. Mauser of the Canadian Simon Frazer University said, (disarming the public has not reduced criminal violence in any country examined—in all cases disarming the public has been ineffective, expensive and often counterproductive.

Doctor Mauser’s research shows us that:

A. England banned handguns in 1997 and since that time violent crime has doubled.

B. Mauser also notes that since Australia passed sweeping gun ban in 1997, robbery and assault rates have increased steadily, and homicide rates are at an all-time high.

C. Canadians passed two gun laws in 1991 and 1995, but violent crime has not dropped to date.

Between 1995 and 2001, violent crime in the U.S.A. has dropped by 25 percent, due in part to our stable gun laws and the fact that more states have adopted the laws allowing citizens to carry concealed weapons.

Now let us examine the true agenda of the Democrats/Liberals. Presidential hopeful, Sen. Hillary Clinton was recently interviewed by the German magazine Der Spiegel, and she said, “George W. Bush’s tenure is but a temporary slowing down of the U.S.’s inexorable integration into Socialist Globalism. For eight years we were on the right course toward a globalized and integrated world—which is coming one way or the other.”

Sen. Clinton also praised a plan developed by the U.N. to control guns.

This plan directly contradicts all of our second amendment rights. The U.N. plan is to ban all guns but shotguns. They would require that these shotguns would be stored in so-called sporting clubs. Only those that could prove a specific need would be allowed to keep their guns at home. Sen. Clinton is suggesting that Americans surrender their constitutional rights to the failed policies of the U.N.

We all know that the U.N. has failed at almost everything that they have tried, and that they are controlled by third world dictators and second rate left learning European countries.

This is all bad enough, but now we have the front runner for president, Sen. John Kerry, that shares many of Sen. Clinton’s views with some bad ideas of his own. Sen. Kerry voted against providing most of the weapons systems that are now used by our military. These weapons systems are essential to our national defense and have been the difference between success and failure.

My fellow Americans, if these Democrats prevail in November we will lose the war on terrorism along with most of our freedom. Please support our troops, our president, G.W. Bush and all those that value freedom and the American way of life.

May we all thank God for this great nation and ask Him to continue to bless us all.

Ed Makarevich,
Kunkletown

Dear Editor:

I think that it is about time for our town to get a traffic light at the intersection of Rt. 6 and SR 2010 (The high school road).

I know that this has been brought up and shot down time after time, but I feel that it is quite ridiculous to sit at the intersection for 15-20 minutes every day during the after school rush.

As a high school senior, I have only had to put up with it for the two years of my driving experience, but I have heard many other people complain about it and now it’s my turn.

Not only is the wait strenuous, it’s that long wait which makes drivers more aggressive when they pull out of that intersection. I have been witness to many “fender benders” in my years of attending WVHS due to this.

A traffic light would also come in very handy to keep the flow of traffic going after a school event is over at the high school.

I believe that a traffic light should be put at that intersection before someone gets hurt and because it would make travel from school to work or from work to home safer.

Michael Lynch
Wyalusing

 

Being in Chamber
Pays Off for Them

Dear Editor:

My husband, Rich and my father-in-law own Skyline Holsteins, and we had a unique experience this week I would like to share.

A farmer from Cedar Lake, IN called us and said they found our farm listed as a member of the Greater Wyalusing Chamber of Commerce.

He was buying a piece of equipment from a local business and wondered if the business was reputable. We told him we thought it was, but asked if he would like us to look at the equipment he was considering and let him know if it was what he wanted. He seemed most grateful and Rich checked it out that week and reported back to him. The fellow farmer sent us a little gift for our help and a very nice thank you.

The moral of this story is that if we hadn’t joined the chamber a year ago, we would never had been known to his man. As it was, we were able to help a fellow farmer from another part of the country and a local business here in town. Farms need to think of themselves as a business and get connected with the chamber. The new membership drive will be starting soon, and I encourage any business that doesn’t belong to jump on the bandwagon and join. It is a group that is there working for us.

Thanks,
Debbie Howard

 

He Left His Heart
In San Antonio?

Editor:

I had planned a trip to Key West this past winter, but it became too much of a hassle.

So, then back to the old drawing board. What’s my second choice? Eureka. San Antonio, Texas. Made sense to me—my wife and daughter agreed. Off to the friendly travel agent we did go. San Antonio had peaked my interest for many a year.

We were in no way disappointed as this city of over 1,500,000 people has many surprises. One of the many surprises was the total inner friendliness of these people. You will find every ethnic persuasion except an Eskimo. One restaurant gave the three of us free cheesecake after a great dinner. The Hilton Hotel waived the ten-dollar cover charge apiece and invited us in to see one of the great national jazz bands in the country. The river walk boat tours gave us free rides throughout the city. Those tickets would have cost ten dollars apiece. We heard music from all directions as this town resonates with song and dance.

A large round building caught our attention. It was capable of holding over 2,000 people and tonight it was pretty much full up with music and dancing. Curiosity pulled open the door and we were greeted by the ticket collector. Tickets, please, she says. We don’t have tickets. We were attracted by the music. How much are your tickets anyway? Fifteen dollars apiece she chirped.

I guess we will be leaving now, I said. I’m glad you liked what they are playing, she responded in an overwhelming glow of approval. To our surprise she said “go on in and don’t worry about it, and I will get you something to eat on the house.”

I did buy the recordings of the band that was playing that evening. I conjoined the music to the videos I made of the trip.

The river walk is a canal that traverses the city and you can reach many places just by taking a boat. The walk is reminiscent of Venice, Italy. To describe it is to lie—as description can only create what limits the imagination. You have to be there.

While visiting an old part of town, we noticed a wedding about to begin and there were thousands of people bunched together. I thought that very curious that this wedding could afford food for so many. Right I was, as these people were for John Kerry, who is running for president. We were caught up in it and it was quite a surprise.

While waiting for the plane for home, we found ourselves sitting across from some friends from Dushore. Small world.

Next morning I was still in a tropical mood until I stuck my head out the door and was quickly reminded that I’d left the world of consideration, peace and quiet. I was brutally awakened to the stern reality of the idiotic barking from the mutts on all sides of me. Yes, girls, we are surely home.

Vincent Calaman
Powell

Two Commissioners
Draw Her Wrath

Editor:

I would like to thank our two darling, camera-worrying commissioners (Janet Lewis and Nancy Schrader) for the dishonest, nonsense of changing the preset agenda at the last minute and voted on a prison and ramming down our throats what I believe is the largest expenditure in Bradford County history.

You both have destroyed our faith, hopes and dreams of the elderly, fixed income and the struggling taxpayers of the county. The tax increase over the years to pay for your mistake could possibly cause many of us to either have to sell our homes or lose them, and it will cause undue stress to all of us, which trickles down to the whole economy of Bradford County. You are supposed to work for us (the taxpayer) not against us; we can’t afford it.

If I was to cost my employer the amount of money that you two are going to cost us, I would be fired. The taxpayers need to remember the decision these two made come election time in three years and how they honestly lied to all of us or did you both do this knowing you’re not going to run for re-election? Hope you are happy.

Lissa Batterson
Gillett