Fair Parade Participants Grateful For Community’s Help After Accident
To the Editor:
We have been members of the Maumee community for 40 years and have always known that Maumee is a great place to live. We take pride in our city, and one way of showing that pride is by participating in the Maumee Summer Fair parade in our 1926 Model T Ford. We have enjoyed seeing all of the people and throwing candy year after year. Unfortunately, this year our Model T was in an accident on the way home from the parade. It was at this time we truly found out what a great community Maumee really is.
We were assisted by many, many people in the 600 block of River Road. Some people lived there, some were still mingling from the parade and some were in the accident with us. We had people running to help us immediately as we were getting out of the car. A nurse who was in the other car made sure we were OK, and kids let us use the ice from their lemonade stand. Other people stayed to be witnesses for the police, helped us pick up the pieces from the middle of the road and brought us hammers to dislodge pieces of glass from wood. Someone even dropped off a part that was left behind at the police station.
It was amazing how many caring and helpful people there were just in that small section of River Road between the library and Key Street. We are so appreciative of all of the help from everyone and thank you very much.
We also cannot say enough about the Maumee police, fire and EMS. They were there within five or six minutes, which is unbelievable considering there was still a parade going on. They were fast to get there and extremely professional and helpful on the scene. The city of Maumee is lucky to have them. We would also like to thank the staff at the St. Luke’s Hospital emergency room and the second-floor step-down ICU unit who treated us like we were their own family.
Unfortunately, we will not be driving our old 1926 Model T in the parade anymore as it is no longer, but we will now be parade watchers. We will still take great pride in Maumee on this annual day of celebration for the city – we will just be candy catchers and not candy throwers!
We are once again thankful and grateful for everyone in Maumee who helped us in our time of need. We know that Maumee is the place it is because of the kind of people who live here.
We have one additional request: We noticed more cameras at this year’s parade than at any other before. If anyone has a picture of us in the parade, we would really appreciate having it. Please e-mail it to modt26@yahoo.com.
Jim and Evon Manke
Ed and Laurie Mitchell
Maumee
Maumee Schools Should Follow AW’s Lead In Seeking Income Tax
To the Editor:
“Anthony Wayne Schools Have a Better Idea.”
“Anthony Wayne Seeks Tax on Earned Income.”
Are you reading these words in The Blade, members of the Maumee board of education?
If you want another tax levy to pass in the city of Maumee, then request a tax on earned income. The tax would apply only to school district residents.
Property owners are tired of being taxed to death. Many residents just cannot afford another tax increase – especially, those on a fixed income.
This is a good opportunity to get money for the Maumee City Schools.
Now make it happen.
Carol Van Dromme
Maumee
Communities Should Take A Close Look At Housing & Economic Recovery Bill
To the Editor:
By now most people have heard and read about the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, which was signed by President Bush on July 20.
Most people are probably aware of the tax credit for first home buyers. Many are probably aware that there is an FHA foreclosure rescue provision and that the bill provides a temporary increase in the loan limit on VA mortgages. As with all legislation, there are many provisions, and all of the bill does not apply to nor is beneficial to every citizen. Details of the bill have been reported over the past few days.
However, there is also a provision that citizens should be aware of and urge local government to review. This portion of the bill provides $4 billion in neighborhood revitalization funds for communities to purchase foreclosed homes. All local governments should thoroughly review how this provision might be used to the benefit of Northwest Ohio.
Al Green
Bowling Green
Pray For The Moral Health Of Nation
To the Editor:
The fact that America is in deep trouble is obvious to everyone. Yet, the real reason is one the multitude doesn’t seem to recognize. Beyond the war, the economy, the health care and educational systems, loss of employers and jobs, etc., is the fact that this country has turned its back on God. Recently I heard a Christian speaker say that it wouldn’t be surprising if God allowed the U.S. to suffer an economic collapse to bring us to our knees.
It’s no wonder we’re in such a mess. Just look at what we’ve done. We kicked God out of schools and now there is no respect and plenty of violence.
When the Supreme Court made its deadly and egregious decision to legalize abortions, it opened the door for murder of innocent unborn babies, and it is murder. When Scott Peterson was found guilty of double homicide for murdering his pregnant wife and their unborn son, Connor, it spoke volumes. It can’t be OK for the mother to take the life of her unborn and murder for everyone else.
Then there are these efforts to approve same sex marriage. God didn’t create Adam and Mike to get married, have children and be a family.
Micah 5:15 says, “I will take vengeance in anger and wrath upon the nations that have not obeyed me.” All I can say is may the Lord have mercy on us. But there is hope if we repent, and I pray that repentance begins with each of us.
Now there are the candidates for president but no one is asking them the critical questions. Americans have been asked to pray every Thursday at noon for a half hour for the moral health of our nation and to elect a strong, godly leader.
Marilyn M. Pryka
Maumee
Masonic Lodge Part Of Building’s History
To the Editor:
I enjoyed the Waterville Historical Society article by Kristen Schweitzer in the September 4 edition, but I feel that an important item was left out. It mentioned that the Wakeman Building was purchased in 1997, but it did not mention that the building was built in 1880, by and for Wakeman Masonic Lodge No. 522. It was occupied by the lodge for 118 years, before they sold it to the Waterville Historical Society. I feel that the Wakeman Masonic Lodge was shortchanged.
Jim Brown
Former Secretary, Wakeman Lodge No. 522
Member, Rubicon Lodge No. 237
Damage Is Already Done In Waterville Township
To the Editor:
Waterville Township trustees want input from concerned citizens. Are they not about five years too late?
The plan for US 24 cuts the township in half and leaves six families without police, fire or emergency help, plus the pollution of the air and noise.
Let’s put a Love’s truck plaza, a Bob Evans, a Wendy’s and a Taco Bell at the interchange on US 24 and ruin the rest of Waterville Township. It is only fair everyone should be affected by progress.
Maryln Conklin
Waterville
Anthony Wayne Voters Have Spoken: “No” Means “No”
To the Editor:
What part of “no” don’t they understand?
Once again, the majority of voters have spoken at the polls against additional spending for the Anthony Wayne Local Schools. The school district clearly has the support to continue operations as normal as the renewal levy passed by a fairly large percentage. If a fourth levy is placed on the ballot, the superintendent and school board surely do not represent nor comprehend what the majority of taxpayers are telling them. They will continue to waste taxpayer funds by placing levies up, in addition to delaying taking action to correct what the previous board president stated was the school board’s fault as to why the school system was in such a fiscal mess.
The community must hold these people accountable. Accountable by demanding answers as to where the $3 million surplus went that the school system had just a few years ago. Accountable for going from 87 percent in salaries and benefits of the total operating budget to 95 percent in just three years, making it one of the highest of state school districts. Accountable for not following the suggestions provided by the Ohio Department of Education audits completed two years ago by reducing an overabundance of staff hired.
If the present superintendent and school board refuse to bring the AW school district back in budget as the taxpayers and ODE clearly state they should, then we need to find individuals who can. The longer that these people fail to perform their responsibilities, the further that this fine school system will worsen. The community, students, AW teachers and staff deserve better.
Christopher Terry
Whitehouse
Mayor Should Remember He Serves All Citizens
To the Editor:
We could sit by and let the letters to the editor in The Mirror on July 31 go unaddressed, but then we would not be following the lead of our founding fathers in expressing their opinions on the perceived wrongs to a person, a group or a budding nation or community.
Our Waterville mayor, Derek Merrin, has the formidable ambition to become a politician. God bless him in his endeavors.
Our community was represented by 13 citizens at a council meeting to discuss the appointment of Peggy Ross to replace Christine Lonsway on the historic commission. Over a hundred signatures were placed on an amendment to include one resident of the historic district to the historic commission.
We watched in dismay as our esteemed mayor yawned, stretched and rolled his eyes as his opposition expressed their opinionated views. Our sympathy might have been with him had he not been an elected official. He should be prepared to withstand all grievances against his administration without the prejudice of his own opinion.
Waterville’s mayor has taken the responsibility of representing the entire Waterville community, whether he agrees with the opinions expressed or not.
We leave him with a quote by Thomas Jefferson, our first Republican: “That government is best which governs the least, because its people discipline themselves.”
We believe that the citizens of the “under the hill” historic district represented the opinions of those who must bear the financial burden of maintaining the historic value of our Waterville homes and community.
Nick and Diane Rombes
Waterville
Whitehouse Library Is A Gem To The Community
To the Editor:
Unknown to many Whitehouse residents is the Whitehouse Library, truly a gem in our village. The library not only has a huge assortment of older books, but the current best sellers can always be found there. I was very surprised to find The Last Lecture there immediately after it was in the book stores, as is true of many other best sellers, even Harry Potter!
In addition to the thousands of books, you can find videos and DVDs (again, some of the most current), magazines and a wonderful assortment of books for sale at a very minimal price. They also hold many special events and activities for children – the summer reading program was a huge success.
Because this is strictly a volunteer-managed library (depending on volunteer help, donations and fund-raisers, and occasional grant money) the days and hours of operation are limited. Regardless, it is definitely worth the effort to enjoy, support and reap the many things this wonderful little hometown library offers. This is what a small town should be!
Karen Jennings
Whitehouse
Waterville Mayor’s Opponents Are Elitists
To the Editor:
It is clear that Waterville Mayor Derek Merrin is up against an obnoxious wall of elitism that pervades Waterville’s political system. Last week, I read with amazement a letter penned by Nancy Myerholtz complaining about the audacity of the mayor not to reappoint her to the board of zoning appeals. Did he not know she’s the former first lady of Waterville? How dare the mayor appoint another resident, Robert DeMatteo, who has been waiting two years to serve as a volunteer?
The elitism and arrogance of a few does not stop with self-appointed aristocrats like Nancy Myerholtz. There is Rob Black, co-owner of the Waterville Gas Company, who whined that the mayor did not see fit to reappoint him to the economic development committee. It’s probably of little consequence that he does not live in the village of Waterville. Did the mayor perceive a conflict of interest? Mr. Black will undoubtedly enrich himself by supplying gas to all new developments.
Then there is Phyllis Hyder, Waterville’s self-appointed spokeswoman and historical expert, who often verbally assaults Mayor Merrin. Why does she so viciously attack our fine mayor? It’s pretty simple. The mayor refuses to take her orders on who to appoint to the historic district commission. Hyder loathes the fact the mayor doesn’t take her forceful advice and does not capitulate to her intimidation tactics that have worked well with “leaders” such as Peyton, Cherry, Valtin and Gouttierre.
When speaking of Waterville council members, one cannot resist commenting on the repugnant odor of elitism that reeks from that political body. Let’s first start with Councilman Jim Valtin, who was offended by the mayor’s appointments to committees. He stated his concern that the “Who’s Who” of Waterville were left off. Do we need any more evidence? Well, then there is Councilman John Gouttierre. He publicly ridiculed a mayoral appointment due the fact the appointee “cleaned houses” for a living. We cannot forget to mention Councilwoman Ann Cherry. She took umbrage with the number of new appointees (four) to the parks and recreation committee. Cherry insisted it would be like going back to kindergarten to bring the new members up to speed.
What’s the problem with Mayor Merrin? He doesn’t give proper deference to the members of the upper crust of Waterville’s caste system. Mr. Mayor, you have character and personal moxie. Please continue to fight for the residents of Waterville.
Irma Shoemaker
Waterville
AW Schools Demonstrate Financial Responsibility
To the Editor:
On August 5, voters of the Anthony Wayne school district will have the opportunity to approve levies to support their school system. The district has shown prudent financial discipline by having the lowest educational cost (on a per-pupil basis) in the NLL, and in most of Northwest Ohio. State test scores are consistently in the “excellent” category.
None of us likes to see the government waste our hard-earned pay on the “pork” projects. The money from these levies will stay local and be used to educate our local youth: our children, our neighbors’ children and the friends of our children.
I grew up without a cell phone or cable TV, and don’t see much of a need for either. We’re willing to pay for these luxuries along with other overpriced material goods, but not for the betterment of our local educational system?
The “me” generation is creating quite a legacy. The federal government is setting future generations up with trillions of dollars of national debt, and to deal with it, we’re giving the next generation as cheap of an education as we can get away with. I believe education is the key to the future success of our local community and to society as a whole.
If still not convinced, please consider the economics of under-funded schools. Housing values drop proportionately with the ills of a distraught school system. Investing in levies will result in higher real estate values, which more than offset the cost of this educational tax. Please vote yes for both levies on August 5.
Rob Hassen
Monclova Township
Community Must Take Responsibility For Education
To the Editor:
I am a supporter of Anthony Wayne Local Schools and I will be voting yes for both levies that will be on the ballot on August 5.
I feel strongly enough that I agreed to serve as chairman of the fund-raising committee for the levy campaign and, along with my wife, have gone door to door providing levy information to voters in our neighborhood.
There are many in our community who have expressed misgivings about these levies. People are upset and confused about how the district ended up in the financial predicament that it is in. There are issues with staff changes and decisions made by the previous administration. And who wants to pay more taxes anyway?
I understand all of these concerns and have had thoughts and feelings along the same lines. My suggestion is to do what I have done: Move on.
Anthony Wayne is an excellent school district and has treated my family well. I also feel that I am vested in the welfare of the schools and this community. I live in the district, own commercial and residential real estate in the district and am a partner in a law firm that has an office in the district. My mother taught at Whitehouse Primary School for 18 years and has been inducted into the Anthony Wayne Hall of Fame. My siblings and I are all graduates (Classes of 1966, ’67, ’69 and ’82). I also have three upcoming graduates in my home: Taylor, Class of 2011; Anna, Class of 2014; and Lily, Class of 2023.
Anthony Wayne offers excellent educational opportunities at all grade levels. AW has been a designated School of Excellence for six consecutive years. It has been able to do this while maintaining the lowest cost per student of the eight suburban school districts in the area. We also have the lowest effective millage rate of those same eight districts.
If none of the above is compelling, look at it this way. Some day you may want to sell your home located in the school district. If so, isn’t it more likely that the house will sell for a higher price if the schools can continue to provide the excellent education for which they are known? Possibly that was a factor when you purchased your house in the Anthony Wayne district.
I wish the state legislature could get their act together and come up with a better method of school funding but until they do, the primary responsibility to fund the education of the youth in our community lies with all of us. Please join me and do your part on August 5.
Paul Croy
Waterville
Whitehouse Fire Department Thanks Community
To the Editor:
The Whitehouse Fire Department would like to thank everyone for their kindness and sympathy during our time of loss. Capt. Gary Studer was an irreplaceable asset to our department. He will be greatly missed as a colleague, firefighter, paramedic and friend. Our community and the surrounding areas have shown their thoughtfulness in many ways. Please know that we are grateful for your compassion. It would have made Gary proud to know how much you care.
Daryl McNutt
Whitehouse Fire Chief
Levies Are Critical To Success Of AW School District
To the Editor:
On August 5, voters in the Anthony Wayne school district will again have an opportunity to vote for two critical operating levies. The success of these levies will not only determine the strength of our school district for years to come, but our community as well. I will be voting an unquestionable yes for both levies and ask that all voters in the district do the same.
There is no doubt that I have a bias in favor of our schools. I can’t imagine anything more important to our community than a school system that has the resources to properly educate our children. There is also no doubt that the state funding mechanism for public school systems such as Anthony Wayne is broken and is at the root of why these levies are critical to each of us and the children in our district. Continuing to say no to the necessary funding for our school, however, does nothing but jeopardize the quality education our current students deserve to receive. I choose not to be part of that approach nor do I agree that by only saying no will the state take action. Saying no jeopardizes the education of today’s students, hoping it will be better for tomorrow’s – not a choice I am willing to make.
My support is also based on the confidence that I have in our administration and my admiration for the staff and teachers who have worked so very hard to maintain the standards we expect despite the current situation. None of them created the problem we have, but they are accountable to manage it and I think they are doing an outstanding job. Actions that our administration and school board have taken to reduce staffing and operating costs in the district have been painfully responsive to our financial situation, but do not define the district we know as Anthony Wayne and the excellence we expect. Additional funding is needed and the only solution available to us today is passing the levies on August ballot.
Each of our two children who are Anthony Wayne High School graduates were well prepared by their teachers and administrators for the next stage of their lives. I want the same for our youngest child, who is a member of the upcoming senior class, and the children in the classes for the years to come. Join me in a yes vote for both levies, and we will do what we are responsible to do as a community – provide the education that our children so richly deserve.
Doug Pontsler
Monclova Township
A “Yes” Vote Makes Sense For Property Owners
To the Editor:
Some things to mull over before voting on the two Anthony Wayne School levies on Tuesday:
Think your property taxes are too high? Ask the Lucas County auditor’s office to reappraise your property value when it makes overall “adjustments” county-wide in 2010. Stay alert for notices in the local papers. You’ll have to shell out $225 for a professional appraiser to take measurements and find comparable properties against which to judge yours. Does $225 sound too much? Sometimes you have to spend money to make money. An independent appraisal saved me $1,500 for each of the next three years when the county discovered (surprise, surprise) that its record of my home’s square footage was incorrect. That’s a nice rate of return. When talking to the county, be polite, patient and don’t mention “property taxes” as ears will stop listening. Taxes are merely the end result of a valuation system the county controls.
Tired of the state legislature not having the collective guts to tackle a school funding system the court has long deemed unconstitutional? As has been urged in these pages already, go to www.legislature.state.oh.us, find your local representative and tell him (or her) to pull up their pants (or slacks) and get moving. We elected them; we can un-elect them.
Still unhappy with our school board? They’re the ones that make the decisions, not the kids (nor the kids’ parents, for that matter). They usually meet the second Monday of every month. Go to the meetings and ask questions (after first reading the “visitor participation” rules on the board Web site). I have nothing against Gary Roser. At two town hall meetings I attended, he had the courage to admit that – as board president – he was blindsided by a number of issues and asked voters to “take it out on me, not the kids” by not re-electing him. How shocked he must’ve been in November when he emerged as one of the top vote recipients! How the heck did that happen?
Don’t love thy wealthy neighbors? Learn to. Why have they moved here over the last 20 years? To escape congestion? To breathe clean, fresh air? To go where no Rite Aid has gone before? To paraphrase a certain ex-president: “It’s the schools, stupid!” We moved from Ottawa Hills in 2001 (which also has a vocal, fixed-income population) because our daughter excels in all forms of art. Every local arts professional pointed us toward Anthony Wayne. We definitely made the right move for her. But, in coming from a district that posted a school levy every three years, we were stunned to learn when voting “yes” on the 2003 emergency levy that the last levy had appeared in 1992! I know times have changed here, but change is only hard to accommodate when first encountered.
Think you know where this is going? Think again.
While in Ottawa Hills, Jan and I voted “yes” on every school levy even though our daughter never attended school there. We will be voting “yes” for both levies come Tuesday even though our daughter graduates from AWHS this year. Are we crazy or what?
Forget the “kids are our future” stuff. Forget that the school system employs a good number of people living inside the district. Forget the good old days where people voted “yes” simply because it was the right thing to do.
Let’s talk common sense, simple math and self-interest.
There are two levies on the ballot. The first is a 3.3-mill renewal, which adds nothing to anyone’s tax bottom line. The second adds 3.3 mills. This levy would cost owners an extra $101.06 for each of five years for each $100,000 of appraised home value. That breaks down to $8.42/month or almost 28 cents/day.
Let’s say both levies fail. Teaching positions and courses get eliminated, pay-to-play ensues and busing decreases, among other things. Over time, the school system worsens as more levies fail. As it does, will new families move in? Would you if you were in that position?
Under this scenario, what happens when folks living in the district try to sell their homes?
Back to where we started: property values. They’ll drop – and by much more than what’s been saved through tax savings. Folks will have retained maybe $1,000 in property taxes (penny-wise), only to lose tens of thousands in property value (pound-foolish). Values may be affected even if only the renewal passes.
Our home will be on the market in six or seven years. I want to sell it for more – not less – than what I paid for it 14 years earlier. Wouldn’t you want that, too?
If you are a property owner, it is in your own best interest to vote “yes” on both levies.
Tom Kasle
Monclova Township
Mayor’s Appointments Breathe New Life Into Waterville
To the Editor:
I want to respond to Nancy Myerholtz’s letter that was published July 10. Myerholtz claimed Mayor Derek Merrin “has chosen not to reappoint members of committees and boards whose terms are up.” Her claim is absolutely false and pathetically shameful. The mayor has reappointed 13 people to their previous positions – even ones who actively campaigned against him.
It is true that the mayor has appointed many new people, which is certainly his right. Mayor Merrin’s new appointments have breathed new life into Waterville and have permitted many qualified residents to serve. For example, he appointed Don Clark to the safety committee. Mr. Clark, a retired 29-year veteran of Toledo Police Department, had been denied a seat on the committee for two years.
Mayor Merrin has broken down the “Good Old Boys” network that had benefited the likes of Nancy Myerholtz so well. What has been the cost? Mayor Merrin has been intensely criticized and basically slandered. It’s no wonder why so few political leaders will even attempt to challenge the status quo.
Keep up the good work, Mayor Merrin.
Jan M. Lowe
Waterville
Despite Difficult Economic Times Support For The Schools Is High
To the Editor:
As a levy volunteer in the door-to-door campaign for the Citizens for Anthony Wayne Schools, I’ve had the opportunity to talk with many community residents who seemed eager for information about the two levies on the ballot on August 5. They were also eager to talk. They wanted to talk about the poor timing of the school district asking for more money when the current economic picture seems so bleak. They wanted to talk of their own frustration with rising gas prices, predictions of soaring food prices and the many houses in the area that have been sold for far under their asking price. As a fellow community member I share all of this frustration and concern. We are experiencing hard times and it’s hard to vote yes for a higher tax bill in times like these.
Despite that fact, I am encouraged because many of my neighbors still said they plan to vote yes for both of the levies on the August 5 ballot. I was relieved to know that there are many people who are willing to come together as a community despite difficult economic times. Citizens are taking this levy request seriously and weighing the issues, not simply responding in anger and broad generalizations. For those of you who are making an educated, thoughtful decision about how you will vote on August 5, I offer up these thoughts to ponder:
The school system is stuck with the state of Ohio education funding mess. We can lobby Columbus, but we cannot change the problems down there. Our main job is to educate the children of our community. We cannot continually do that on less and less money, especially since our school continues to grow in population.
Every time the school must put a levy on the ballot, they are required to pay thousands of dollars to the Board of Elections. If levies fail, they have no other choice but to continue to spend more money to put additional levies on the ballot. Sound like a vicious cycle? It certainly is; but keep in mind that the school has no choice because, at this point in time, the state has offered no other way to fund schools.
And speaking of the state, you do realize that state money is still your tax money, right? There is some solace to the fact that levies for local schools assure you that your tax dollars stay in your own community. We all say we want the state-funding problem for schools to be fixed, but what will that do to our state taxes?
The rising gas and food prices affect the schools as much as they do individual households. Imagine the impact of soaring gas prices on a school district such as ours, which is one of the largest in square miles in the entire state of Ohio! Bussing of many of these children is mandated by the state. Reconfiguring of routes has been done, but high gas prices have offset the savings.
The best way we as a community can impact the stagnate real estate market and stop the decline in our property values is to give people a reason to choose to move to the Anthony Wayne community. People, whether or not they have school-aged children, desire living in a place where the schools are vibrant and embraced by the community.
Anthony Wayne Schools are schools of excellence with a funding problem. If the citizens of this community do not rise up to fix this funding problem, our schools will begin to decline, and when the schools decline, so goes the community. I encourage you to place Tuesday, August 5 on your calendar so that you can plan ahead to take the time to vote to support both school levies on the ballot so that our community can continue to be one of the premier communities of northwest Ohio.
Lisa Alleman
Whitehouse
Voters Should Sit Tight Until State Unveils School Funding Solution
To the Editor:
The Anthony Wayne school levies come up for voting on August 5. Both the renewal and the additional are pegged at 3.3 mills, for a total of 6.6 mills, or 66 cents per $100 of property tax valuation according to the verbiage on the ballot as published on the board of education’s Web site.
Combined, the sum of $6 million is being sought. With slightly over 4,400 students enrolled in the system, this equates to approximately $1,360 per student.
Additional wording on the measure states, “…Providing for the emergency requirements of the district…”
Here are a few reasons I’m going to have a tough time voting in the affirmative.
In 1997, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled the current system for funding schools was unconstitutional. Four times the court found the system unconstitutional because of an over-reliance on local property taxes. Our governor has said he plans to have a new school funding plan in 2009, and I believe there will be a full court press to satisfy the court’s demand to significantly lessen the reliance on property taxes. If we pass these levies in 2008, we just might find the changes in school funding in 2009 will make the additional burden from property tax moot. The timing of these levies is just so wrong.
Voting in the affirmative would also fly in the face of property tax levy funding being held unconstitutional. If we are indeed a nation of laws, why would the electorate encourage the perpetuation of a taxation system found seriously flawed by the legal branch of our government?
Not waiting for a mandated solution from the statehouse full of doddlers, other districts in the state like Wayne Trace have instituted their own non-property tax supplements to help fund their school systems. Since 1991 that system incorporated some income tax revenues to help support the schools in a fair way that is graduated on the basis of wealth.
Those who can afford to pay more do.
Wayne Trace and other districts in Paulding County average about $1,000 less cost per pupil than Anthony Wayne. Mean ACT scores for Anthony Wayne High School and Wayne Trace High School were identical at 22.0 for 2005, according to the Ohio Department of Education.
Columbus Grove High School has the designation of excellent just as AWHS, but their cost per student is under $6,900 (source: The Blade, November 2007) – about 17 percent less than our district. Their SAT scores were 5 percent higher than Anthony Wayne and their 2007 performance index score was higher as well.
Columbus Grove superintendent Bob Jennell also said in the article, “We were not striving to be No. 1 in cost per pupil. We are just not making spontaneous decisions and we have had a very conservative board, (and a) conservative administration prior to my time as superintendent.”
Concerning the word “emergency” appearing on the levy ballot, apart from natural or extraordinary disasters, it usually implies lack of adequate planning or preparedness. I would have to question the level of competence of those elected to govern our school district. With virtually all government bureaucracies, when they fail to be efficient, the solution more often than not is to throw more money at the problem.
While I would agree that we have an above-average public school system in the Anthony Wayne district, many of the ills the court mandated to be fixed – like elimination of unfunded mandates, reduction in reliance on property tax, elimination of forced borrowing to meet ordinary school district expenses, and elimination of phantom revenue – are currently and finally being seriously addressed in Columbus. With Gov. Strickland putting the school funding issue on the front burner for a final and equitable solution in 2009, we might just wish we hadn’t over-property-taxed ourselves when the cavalry is about to arrive with alternative revenue streams for every public school across the state.
Denny Katell
Waterville
A Good, Well-Supported School System Is The Cornerstone Of A Community
To the Editor:
Many have questions or reservations about the administration of the Anthony Wayne Schools lately. If you have, I hope you will read and consider this letter of unquestioned support for the passage of the upcoming school funding levies.
I understand how controversial decisions have created a crisis of credibility. They have undermined the board’s and administration’s ability to secure the financial resources the school system will need. So, they are 0 for 2 with their last time up to bat. Consequently, we find our wonderful school district approaching the brink of a destructive downward spiral. If we cross over the brink, it will negatively impact the schools and will initiate an erosive sequence of influences over property values and the quality of life in the community as well.
Good, well-supported schools are a cornerstone of desirable communities. Those communities are economically healthy and great places to live. The people of the Anthony Wayne district have, with few exceptions, been reliably supportive of the schools. Consequently, for our investment we have received excellent value in our schools and all across the community. For decades, we have enjoyed and benefited from living in one of the best school districts in the state for both value and performance.
Yes, there will always be room for improvement, but we must be very careful not to hold future success hostage to missteps of the past. That would be counterproductive. The groundwork that prepared the way for the string of “excellent” ratings the school system has earned was accomplished by many, many right-steps by the students, teachers, administrations, school boards and taxpayers over many years.
Personally, I think there may be another important issue or two which are also worthy of our thoughtful consideration but they can wait for now. I’m “holding my fire” on any other issues until after the school’s finances are secure. Failure now to affirm our support for the schools would be akin to shooting ourselves in the foot just before setting out on an important journey. It won’t help anything and progress of any kind will become much more difficult, complicated and unlikely. For the moment, securing the school district’s financial resources is the most immediate and the most critical issue facing the Anthony Wayne Schools.
Paying attention to and controlling what happens in our schools locally is a valuable expression of liberty. It is also an important responsibility. Seeing that the financial needs of our schools are met is a vital part of that responsibility.
Please vote in support of the Anthony Wayne school levies. We will all continue to benefit from the investment and it’s the right thing to do if we’re to move forward.
Keith Colyer
Whitehouse
Urge State Lawmakers To Address School Funding Issue
To the Editor:
On Tuesday, August 5, we have important issues to decide within the Anthony Wayne school district. We are faced with the decision on whether to support our schools with a renewal of an emergency operating levy first passed in 2003 and passage of a new levy to provide additional funds for a five-year period. Together these levies will provide 6.5 mills annually for the Anthony Wayne Local Schools. I am proud to announce that the Anthony Wayne Democratic Club unanimously endorsed the levies at its May 28 meeting.
I understand the arguments against the levies and certainly can empathize with those who are on a fixed income and are being hit hard with the rising cost of living, and who feel that they cannot absorb yet another tax. I believe we must support our schools, which are achieving an excellent rating on an annual basis.
If you are tired of seeing your property taxes go up and want to see some action by our do-nothing state legislature on this issue, which has been on the horizon for over 10 years, I urge you to take the following action: Please contact our representatives in state government and ask them to act on this issue of great importance. For those in the Anthony Wayne school district, the folks to contact are Mark Wagoner, our newly appointed state senator for District 2 and Barbara Sears, our newly appointed state representative for District 46.
Ask them to work toward a solution for school funding in Ohio. Remind them that it may take political courage to tackle this issue, and ask them to exhibit that courage.
In short, until we can devise a better way to fund our schools, I believe we should support our local educators and our children and vote yes on these operating levies. Let’s keep a good thing going in southwest Lucas County.
Mark Dansack
President
Anthony Wayne Democratic Club
Mayor’s Actions Will Turn Off Dedicated Volunteers
To the Editor:
The July 3 edition of The Blade reported the events of a recent Waterville council meeting. In that article, Mayor Derek Merrin described a petition that was presented by a group of Waterville citizens as “a power grab and everybody knows it.” The petition proposed a change to allow a member of council to make a nomination for the historic district commission if council had not approved an appointment by the mayor within 60 days.
Since taking office in January, Merrin has chosen not to reappoint members of committees and boards whose terms are up. I was one of the members of a Waterville village committee who was not reappointed for a new term. I served four years on the board of zoning appeals, following my husband’s term as mayor. I cannot remember missing a single meeting.
Even though the mayor did not present the name of a candidate who could be considered for the position until June, he refused to consider my request to be reappointed. I sent in an application and two e-mails stating my desire to continue. I received no response to either. I attended two council meetings and stated my request publicly.
After a council meeting, I asked why I was not being reappointed. Mayor Merrin said directly to me that he did not want to appoint me. No other reason was given. I never received written notice that I was not being considered for the position, nor did I receive a thank you for my four years of service.
I am one of many longtime Waterville community volunteers who are being treated in this manner. I believe the only one who is interested in “grabbing power” is Mayor Merrin himself, and I am very concerned that Waterville Village Council will lose many talented and dedicated volunteers in the process.
Nancy E. Myerholtz
Waterville
Maumee Schools Are A Source Of Pride
To the Editor:
My son graduated on June 1 from Maumee High School. I would like to say moving to Maumee in 1997 was one of the best decisions for my family, especially for the highly regarded school system.
From the moment I went to register my son at Fairfield, I immediately noticed a huge difference from the school system we had left. My son has special needs and I know without a shadow of a doubt that he has come as far as he has because of the Maumee schools – from the administration; to the teachers and aides from Fairfield, Gateway and the high school who helped him reach his potential; to the cafeteria staff who made sure he didn’t get picked on; down to the transportation department, which was in contact with me personally to make sure he got home on the days Penta was in session but Maumee was not.
Everyone has been so helpful to Josh. I would like to say a huge heartfelt thank you to everyone who played even the smallest part in helping him reach his goals.
It is with a great sense of pride that I tell people I am from Maumee.
Mary Hoye
Maumee
You Can Help Put A Stop To Puppy Mills
By Adopting A Dog From A Local Shelter
To the Editor:
I would like to ask you to help warn your readers about the dangers to be aware of when purchasing their next dog. Many people spend hundreds of dollars to buy a healthy-looking puppy only to find out soon after that he is seriously ill and requires costly veterinary care to save his life. With some basic steps, families can protect themselves, their wallets and the puppies at the same time.
Puppy mills are breeding facilities that produce purebred puppies in large numbers and sell them to unsuspecting consumers. They are inhumane, designed to maximize profits, and commonly disregard the physical, social and emotional health of dogs in their facilities. Because of these conditions, Puppy mill puppies are more likely to have physical and behavioral problems than dogs from good sources.
Puppy mills lurk behind the beautiful Web sites, ads in the newspaper, even behind the doors of a nearby pet store. The best way to stop puppy mills from continuing their abuse is for consumers to stop buying the puppies they breed. Many people think they are “rescuing” a puppy by buying one – don’t be fooled, you’re just creating space for another puppy to be sold. Never buy a dog unless you can see where he or she was born, how the parents are kept and what condition all the dogs are in.
If you have your heart set on purchasing a purebred dog, it should be from a reputable breeder. A printable checklist of good breeder characteristics is available on the Web site www.StopPuppyMills.com, and more information about finding your next pet can be found on the Humane Society of the United States Web site, www.hsus.org.
By far, the best place to get your next pet is the local animal shelter. Many people are surprised to learn that nationwide, one in every four dogs in shelters is purebred. Most of these shelter animals have already been spayed or neutered, and have received all vaccinations and veterinary checkups. Shelters also screen animals for adoption so that they can make a great match between animals and their new families. Purebred rescue groups are another excellent resource for finding a dog and you can find links at www.petfinder.org and www.pets911.com.
People who love dogs need to help stop them from being mistreated by making sure they aren’t supporting a puppy mill.
Jennifer Waite
Maumee
Many Contributed To The Great Success
Of American Legion’s Annual Poppy Day
To the Editor:
Once again, Maumee and the neighboring communities have shown their love and support for our veterans. We extend a special thanks for making Poppy Day on May 23 a success.
Thank you Maumee Mayor Tim Wagener for your proclamation and photograph with Miss Poppy. We are grateful to Mike McCarthy, publisher of The Mirror, for publicity and photographs in the paper.
To our Miss Poppy, Kelsey Kurek, daughter of Mike Kurek and granddaughter of Dottie Kurek, thank you for representing our post.
To the Pharm stores, Pauken’s Wine Shop, J.D.’s Carryout, Speedway, Walt Churchill’s Market, Zoup, Sam’s Diner, Barney’s BP Gas and Convenience Mart and Big Lots, we thank you for allowing us to distribute our poppies at your places of business.
Special thanks to all of the volunteers; you were great. To our members who mailed in contributions: your response was more than appreciated.
We owe a special thanks to John Leonard for all the past years he participated to make our Poppy Days a success. He will be missed for years to come.
With everyone caring, we will continue to assist our veterans and their families. God bless them; God bless America.
Joanne Shue
Poppy Chairman
American Legion Auxiliary No. 320
Try To Keep Your Head Above Water
As Sewer, Water Rates Continue To Rise
To the Editor:
My water bill keeps going up and I have checked for leaks (We had a running toilet and thought that was the problem. I was eagerly waiting to see how much I reduced my bill). The bill increased so we started to recycle gray water, we take short showers and the bill keeps going up and I can’t keep up.
I called the water department and was told our rates went up 28 percent, and last year we had a 70 percent increase, which equals 98 percent. How can people make it if they aren’t frugal? I can see why people have to leave our wonderful town; they can’t keep up.
Here are some water-saving tips:
1. Check for leaks, drips and running water. Think of it as money going down the drain and get them fixed.
2. Only wash full loads of laundry and dishes in dishwasher. It doesn’t matter if there is one thing or a full load; you will use the same amount of water.
3. Showers take less water than a bath. Try to make it a five-minute one.
4. Keep a pitcher of water in the fridge. This way you won’t waste water running until it’s cold enough for you.
5. Add a brick or small filled water jug to the tank of the toilet. This displaces the water and you use less.
6. Remember when mother said “Scrape your plate!” Well, she was right again. Scrape rather than rinse before you put your plate in the dishwasher and this will save water.
7. Shut that water off when brushing your teeth.
8. The joke – is your toilet running? Well, you better go catch it, because it’s running away with your money. To check if it is running, put blue dye in the tank and if the bowl turns blue right away, you better catch it soon or you’ll be seeing red when the water bill comes. (Remember: if you don’t see a color change right away, you will when you flush it until the color is gone from the tank.)
9. Think about installing a separate water meter for outside water faucets if you do outside watering and car washing, so you won’t get charged sewer usage. This will also save.
Candy Huner
Maumee
Maumee Students Open Their Hearts
To Impoverished Children Of Guatemala
To the Editor:
The Maumee City Schools recently combined with area residents in a project to educate students here on poverty in our world and to provide much-needed school supplies to students in Guatemala. This effort was an overwhelming success.
Over 1,000 new pencils, 10,000 sheets of paper, dozens of boxes of crayons, hundreds of bottles of glue, rulers, pens, erasers, pencil sharpeners, scissors, watercolor paint sets, notebooks, markers, sheets of construction paper, highlighters and many other supplies filled numerous boxes at Gateway Middle School, Fairfield Elementary, Fort Miami Elementary, Wayne Trail Elementary, Union Elementary and St. Joseph Catholic School in Maumee.
These supplies will be personally distributed to students in Guatemala City, Mazatenango and the remote Mayan Indian village of Paquila in Guatemala this July.
Students in our Maumee City Schools learned about Guatemala and how poor people in our world live and survive. What a valuable lesson. Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith and the principals of Fairfield, Wayne Trail, Fort Miami, Union, Gateway and St. Joseph coordinated this project. The schools’ theme was “Every child deserves an opportunity to learn.”
Our July mission trip theme is “A Caring Heart.”
Thanks to the students in the Maumee City Schools and their families. We are providing children in Guatemala with an opportunity to learn. Our students have demonstrated that they have “A Caring Heart,” and together we can make a difference in our world!
Judy Kwiatkowski
Guatemala Mission Trip Leader
Maumee