Letters to the Editor
Conservatism and the Environment
Too often in our politics, we tend to fall back upon the standard partisan stereotypes, avoiding nuance in what are complex political and policy issues. Take for example the environment.
Democrats can claim, based upon their concern over climate change and support for federal environmental regulations, that they are the party that is “pro-environment.” However, there is no inherent principle in conservatism that is anti-environment. A regulated system of free enterprise operating with respect for the rule of law and clear, discernable rules and regulations is the best system for balancing environmental preservation with the needs of an industrial economy. See India, China and the former Soviet Union for examples of command and control systems and their abysmal environmental record.
A proper conservatism appreciates the environment and seeks to “conserve” it for future generations, while at the same time giving healthy deference to the demands of private property rights.
This fact is important to keep in mind when evaluating the future of Geauga County. Our county is richly blessed with a rural heritage and stunning natural scenes (especially in spring). While our county leaders must continue to grow and develop the county, this growth and development must not, and should not, come at the expense of our rural nature. We do not want to become yet another stretch of suburbia. True creative development will find ways to preserve our rich rural heritage while providing jobs and a way of life for those who choose to live here. We are a conservative community, but let us never forget that conservatism must include protection and preservation of our surrounding environment.
Dane Davis
Bainbridge Township
Joining West G Wrong Move
A recent editorial in the newspaper started with a statement that read, “Newbury Township residents have a long and proud history of supporting their local school system by approving tax levies for both renewals and additional revenue.”
Seems odd to say that when the Newbury school board president said the exact opposite, stating that they “do not feel that Newbury residents will pass any new levies to support the school” and with “declining enrollment (which they caused by encouraging parents to enroll in other districts for next year) we don’t feel a renewal would be possible.”
Wake up residents! I think you see both the politics that are being played here and the undermining way it was done (through Territory Transfer) to strip Newbury of the small town community school it has cherished for many years.
I love the way they keep using words like “merger” to describe this in hopes that the residents won’t realize that it is not a merger, it is a territory transfer which means the buildings, identity, etc. are all gone.
When the West Geauga school board puts a bond levy on the ballot (after the territory transfer is voted on) which has been estimated between 50.7-55.1 mills, what do you think will happen to all of the “tax savings” that you were promised?
Not surprisingly, both the superintendent and the Newbury school board members will not answer those questions because they already know the answer. I have asked several times; they will not answer.
I also checked out the names of those that signed the editorial letter. Most do not have kids in Newbury Schools anyway. They have no vested interest in the kids of Newbury. Some had kids in this school many years ago (even during declining enrollment) and supported levies then, but the minute their kids left, Newbury amazingly became a burden and a “sub-standard” school.
West Geauga school board members will be in for a rude awakening when Newbury residents vote ‘no’ on future levies and bond issues. Why would we say ‘yes’ to increasing our taxes after all of the “great tax savings come true” that we were promised by this school board? Why would those of us enrolling our students in Berkshire or other schools say ‘yes’ to a bond issue? Why would senior citizens want to increase their taxes through a bond issue while on a fixed budget?
More sad misdirection and tactics to further the agenda of the Newbury school board members and their friends to keep the community in the dark about this territory transfer.
Phil Paradise Jr.
Newbury Township
‘Thank You’ Veterans
As the 75th anniversary of the heroic D-Day invasion draws near (June 6, 2019), remembering all of our military veterans especially those who served in World War II is most appropriate.
As President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt aptly said, “Freedom is not Free.”
Our freedom has been earned by the generosity of service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in our country’s military.
The number of World War II veterans is dwindling, so it is especially important to say “Thank You” if you see a World War II veteran.
Of course, every military veteran and all of those currently serving our country deserve our gratitude.
Judge Timothy J. Grendell
Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court
Stand for Newbury
The mission statement from Newbury Schools reads as follows: “As a community, we inspire a passion for learning so every student will achieve personal success and become responsible and productive citizens.”
I’d like to point out that education happens across environments. Our students are inspired to learn in the classroom, in the community, on the ballfields, tracks, basketball courts, gyms and beyond.
During the May 6, 2019, board of education meeting, Maggie Zock, Terry Sedivy and Kimya Matthews once again caused a disruption to Newbury’s learning process. The provided agenda was approved, but when it was time to vote to approve the section for paid and volunteer coaches, the board motioned to go into executive session. Upon their return to the meeting, a board member asked for a motion to table the vote.
How is it that three people can manipulate a community by turning down volunteers? Yes, volunteers. People from our own community willing to volunteer to give both their time and service to our children.
For over two weeks, the board has stayed silent regarding the rumors that sports for Newbury will be cancelled.
These coaches have impacted our students in so many ways. Our students gained leadership skills, time management skills, how to win with grace and how to get up and try harder following a loss.
This year, Mr. Sanders, Mr. Bond and Mr. Mohar had two students make it to the state level in wrestling. Mr. Chaffee had back-to-back volleyball championships. Mr. Orms and Mr. Arnold have had back-to-back winning basketball seasons. Our baseball team just won sectionals and is heading to district playoffs. Our soccer team advanced to the championship level as well.
There is documented research that supports students engaged in clubs and activities, including sports, are less likely to engage in risky behaviors.
A few comments from our community include a Newbury High School senior, “I wouldn’t be who I am today without those guys.” From a parent, “My son still talks about his coach and how he got him started with pitching.” Another Newbury parent, “Thank you so much for helping with my son’s growth! And also for the long hours and dedication.”
For the past two years, this board has only been interested in the fast track territory transfer. Our current students deserve the same level of programming that Maggie, Kimya, and Terry had when they were students at Newbury. Yet, their actions are personal and unprofessional.
To our board members, school is still in session for the 2019-2020 school year. Follow your mission statement and allow Newbury students to learn life lessons across multiple environments. Provide the high level of education they deserve. To our board and to the community at large, stand for Newbury!
Vicki Koller
Newbury Township
