LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Collins calm amid water crisis
8/6/2014Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins is to be commended for his ability to maintain calm in the face of the water crisis (“Water crisis grips area,” Aug. 3). He showed that he is a good leader who is concerned with the safety of his people.
He kept the public fully informed. Along with Dr. David Grossman, the Toledo-Lucas County health commissioner, he explained in a clear manner the things that were being done.
The water distribution centers were implemented in a timely manner. Citizens not only of Toledo but also of surrounding areas were able to show thoughtfulness and generosity to others. That is the essence of human kindness.
All those people who were affected should be thankful for the strong leadership of Mayor Collins and the kindness of our fellow citizens.
BARBARA MILLER
West Bancroft Street
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Store chat stokes faith in humanity
Early Saturday morning, my husband and I headed north to the Monroe Meijer store for water (“Emergency means pain for some, opportunities for others,” Aug. 3). Even at 7 a.m., the water aisle was packed with worried customers.
Separated from my husband, I found bottled water and was lifting it into the cart. Next to me, a young man asked: “Ma’am, would you like some help?”
We struck up a conversation. It turned out that he was the father of small children, and he was worried about them. I have four young grandchidren.
Our brief encounter, each reassuring the other that things would be OK, gave me great comfort. He reaffirmed my faith in human nature that bleak morning.
During the water emergency, it was easy for all of us to become frustrated. But I was struck by the goodness of most people. As for those who chose to price-gouge and hurt others in their time of need, how sad.
LINDA JENKINS
Temperance
Early shoppers rude, greedy
I went out for more bottled water in the event that others we know found themselves short. Lines were long at 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, and panic ensued as shelves of water emptied within moments. People were rude, greedy, and disrespectful, especially of the elderly.
I hope this disruption will remind people to heed the advice of authorities about emergency preparedness, and never to take our natural resources for granted.
Thanks to all who transported water from other areas in a timely manner, retailers who handled the overwhelming rush with grace, and those who worked to correct the situation. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed.
DEE PAKULSKI
Imperial Drive
Heart patient thankful for help
Kudos to the suppliers and volunteers who provided water during this crisis. To me, a heart patient, it was a blessing.
GLEN DeGELNOR
Maumee