Article published November 03, 2009
Update U.S. trade policies
As a media industry observer, I read your Sunday story "Solid future for Toledo area Chrysler plants" with great interest. Nothing would make me happier than the prospect of the Jeep plants running at full capacity to meet demand for worldwide export. Unfortunately, not one of the five experts quoted mentioned the largest barrier to such a rosy future: the high tariffs and taxation applied to U.S.-made goods in foreign markets.
Before anyone mentions the old canards about the suitability of U.S.-market vehicles in foreign lands, realize that Korean automakers sold just 502 vehicles in Japan last year. Meanwhile, Japan accounts for less than 2 percent of Korean auto sales. These are very closed markets, even between Asian nations with similar consumer tastes.
Off-roading through Germany sounds great until you realize a base-model Jeep Liberty will cost more than $45,000. Why the amazing price difference? The German government adds a 19 percent value-added tax to autos imported from the United States. Incidentally, they rebate a portion of that tax to German manufacturers exporting to the United States.
Every aspect of the U.S. auto industry, from entry-level employee pay to future technology investments, has been harshly scrutinized by the media and government. Yet almost no one is addressing the unfair trade policies that have allowed other nations' industries to grow influential in the United States, while we are effectively shut out of their markets. Ohio residents should be aware that U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton co-sponsored the Border Tax Equity Act of 2007, a bipartisan bill to negate this unfair advantage.
If we are to move forward in a world economy, U.S. trade policies dating from the 1950s, which have disfavored U.S. manufacturers and were designed to stop the spread of communism, must be overhauled. Otherwise, manufacturing (and the good-paying jobs that accompany it) will continue their 40-year decline.
Chris VitalePresident
FairImage.org
St. Clair Shores, Mich.Dog warden is unfairly targeted
In response to the Oct. 23 editorial "Skeldon's got to go," the Ohio County Dog Wardens' Association leadership would like to share its professional opinion.
Most of what the dog warden encounters in the line of duty is beyond his control. It is the irresponsible folks who determine how many stray dogs fill up the county pound. These same people also determine the redemption rate of found dogs, or how many strays go unwanted. Then, the general public decides which adoptable dogs are saved from euthanasia. Therefore, the life of a stray dog is in the hands of these people from beginning to end.
According to statewide statistics, stray dogs in Ohio are claimed by their owner 19 percent of the time. So, even though Lucas County dog owners are no better or worse in claiming their lost dogs, the warden is unfairly being held accountable for their inaction.
Consider this: In Ohio, humane societies are forced to euthanize 82 percent of the cats they receive. Does that mean the agents enjoy killing cats? Of course not! We would never think or say that, and we are deeply disappointed that anyone would set forth the horrible and fallacious notion that a dog warden "enjoys killing dogs."
No one else in Tom Skeldon's position has received more media acknowledgement or editorial praise. His expertise is respected by colleagues throughout the United States. He is known for being a leader of the pack and succeeding at any program he launches for his citizens. The reality that Tom must concede is that the job of county dog warden remains a thankless one. It is a shame that some things never change.
Barb Knapp
Erie County Dog Warden
President, Ohio County
Dog Wardens' AssociationLost, stray dogs have little chance
Lucas County is a great area with great things to offer. We have great people, a great culture, and a vast and diverse history. We've recently had a few black eyes. A skyrocketing unemployment rate, one of the highest foreclosure rates in the country, and businesses closing at a record pace. Simply put, things are tough and they might get tougher.
Consider this: A homeless, lost, or stray dog in the custody of the county dog warden has a 100 percent chance of not receiving prompt, standard medical attention upon arriving at the pound. Forget help from an outside organization, no negotiations. Microchip scans - not so much.
In fact, an unlicensed dog in the custody of the dog warden has a 99.96 percent chance of dying in custody if unclaimed after three days. A licensed dog has an 80 percent chance of being exterminated after a 14-day stay if unclaimed.
We've even learned that the dog warden's office euthanizes healthy, frisky, and adoptable puppies. What's going on over there?
Mike MacGuffie
Harley StreetWhat happens to high license fees?
I am an animal lover. I watch Animal Planet, Animal Cops, ASPCA, which have a great plan for animals. Tom Skeldon does not. He should be charged with the killing of every animal he has destroyed and spend time in jail for crimes against animals. Just because he is the dog warden, he is not above the law.
Also, where is all the money going from buying the dog licenses at $25 each? Other counties aren't this pricey. Just because he is the dog warden doesn't mean he can abuse his power. I see this as exactly what he does. I also believe that he is not a caring person. He kills just so he can be rid of his responsibilities to the community. I would like to see him replaced.
Deborah Spaulding
BroadwayWarden has high regard for safety
It seems as though many in Toledo need to know the good that Tom Skeldon and his officers do. I am a letter carrier and on several occasions I have seen Mr. Skeldon's department pick up stray dogs that could cause harm.Just the other day, I was trapped in someone's yard by a stray pit bull. I placed a call to his office and within minutes they were out to retrieve the dog so I could finish my job delivering mail. Carriers are threatened by these occurrences daily.
I am glad Toledo has a department that highly regards the safety of its citizens.
Matt Peterson
Sylvania
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