LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Readers, don’t be so sensitive

4/5/2014

Blade ombudsman Jack Lessenberry’s March 30 commentary talks about a reader who objected to a quote about Middle Easterners moving into “white and Jewish neighborhoods.”

The Blade’s managing editor is quoted as saying that neither the reporter nor the woman who was interviewed intended anything that could be interpreted as a slur. He said the complaint made him “realize once again how sensitive stories about race and ethnicity are.”

Herein lies the problem. Even though no offense was intended, offense was taken. I suggest the offended recite this childhood ditty: Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names can never harm me.

JOSEPH PFLAGER

Maumee

 

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Where’s help with winter damage?

As groundskeeper for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, a large facility in Maumee, I know firsthand the brutal impact this winter has had on northwest Ohio (“Toledo No. 1 on list of worst winter cities; Weather Channel names ‘misery champ’,” March 22).

This was a natural disaster. When hurricanes and tornadoes hit other areas of the country, there is a rush of support. Where’s the help for us? No one has come forward to help fill the potholes that are shredding the tires and damaging the suspensions of our vehicles.

Where are the landscapers from other areas to help put our sod and curbsides back together? Where are the roofers from other areas to help repair damage from the weight of the snow and ice dams that have decimated our roofs?

The next time a hurricane hits those who have chosen to live where storms are likely to happen, I will remember this when I am asked to give.

BRUCE MAXWELL

Monclova Township

 

Reallocating fund hurts city streets

Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins and City Council disagreed over how the city budget should be juggled (“City council approves 2014 budget; Deals fund pools, rent,” April 1). The mayor misappropriated $14.1 million from the capital improvements budget to keep the city afloat, while the ancient, decaying infrastructure causes sinkholes, and streets get worse. Why even have a budget?

LEWIS KUJAWSKI

Nebraska Avenue

 

Waite’s centennial a fete for city

I had the pleasure recently of attending a concert by the Waite High School alumni choir at the school’s auditorium. It was the first time I have been in the school since I was a child on the east side. The Toledo Board of Education is to be complimented for the extensive restoration that returned this landmark to its former beauty.

This May, the Waite community will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the school. Although I did not graduate from Waite, I think this should be a celebration not just for the east side, but for the entire city.

KAY BAHNA

Sylvania