August 2007 Archives

As presenting sponsor, I would like to thank the the community of York for making the Herbie Hancock concert Aug. 24 a success. Participation from the city government through Mayor John Brenner and Kevin Schreiber from Economic Development made the concert even better.

I would also like to thank Alex Smith and Josh Tarlow from Radio Cure Productions for their tireless work in making everything happen behind the scenes.

I encourage everyone to make York City a frequent destination to enjoy all of its great attractions from the new baseball stadium to the City Art Gallery to the Strand Capitol Performing Arts Theater. The city has much to offer and the support of the community will make it an even better place.

Justin Tomevi
York

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I was deeply moved by the local Pa. township that lower its flag to half-staff to honor one of our fallen Americans.

Why can't we all lower our flags to half-staff to honor all Americans nationwide who have given their lives for our country? I have lowered mine and will keep it lowered to honor each and every American service personnel. I wish we could do this for all of our fallen heroes.

Thank you if you took the time to read this. I am one American who wishes to honor all who fought for our country and show honor to their families.

Yourtha "Yogi" Delp
Felton

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Thank you for your support of fluoridation in our water. As a relatively new resident of York, it is very disappointing that my pediatrician needs to write prescriptions for my children to obtain “fluoride” vitamins in an attempt to protect my children’s teeth. These vitamins cost approximately $60 per child per year when fluoride could be added to our water for pennies per month. My children do not like the taste of these vitamins which are chewable and coat their teeth. Prior to moving to York and living in several communities with fluoridation in the water, my children never got a cavity.

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This refers to the AP piece you ran on Sunday August 26, 2007 regarding the upcoming publication of "Come Be My Light: the Private Writings of the ‘Saint of Calcutta.” The piece raises doubt about Mother Teresa’s faith, her belief in the existence of God and even questioned the veracity of her smile.

The reality of the journey of faith is that with it comes many challenges, even spiritually dry times of deep doubt. This occurs even in the lives of people of notable holiness like Teresa of Calcutta; along with many other of the named and unnamed saints as well as those who journey in faith at present.

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In his recent column, Cal Thomas, referring to the Iraq War, avers, "It is the emerging plan of congressional Democrats (that) ... "losing is winning."

That's an interesting spin because, during 4-1/2 years of losing this war, Republicans have also called it winning.

They started with the President standing under a huge banner that proclaimed "Mission Accomplished." Over and over we were told, "The insurgents are on the run." Rumsfeld
insisted we were winnning. Cheney claimed we were winning. Yet it seemed that our troops, well-disciplined and well-trained, would clear one insurgent-infested area only to find insurgent activity in another area. Early on, our troops started feeling like ducks in a shooting gallery. Later came the proliferation of IEDs. Many of the 800,000 Christians who lived in Iraq before we invaded have had to flee. Many of the Iraqi middle class have fled the country. What we have left is a society out of control. We have successfully destabilized the nation.

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Non-motorcyclists are concerned about motorcyclists not wearing helmets because they say, “ if I have to wear a seat belt then why don't they have to wear helmets?” You are ticketed for driving without a seatbelt because you didn't fight for your right to choose to buckle-up.

Motorcyclists have stood up for their right to choose to wear a helmet and won that right. The real concern should be for riders involved in accidents because a driver who “didn't see him/her,” pulled out in front of a motorcyclist. We have too many irresponsible drivers not looking out for motorcyclists.

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For the more than 10 million people caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, there will be little rest this summer. For a disease that affects not just individuals, but entire families — there is little relief.

Today, there are more than 5 million people currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is poised to soar to as many as 16 million by mid-century as the 78 million baby boomers enter the age of greatest risk. Caregivers to this growing population invest 8.5 billion hours worth $83 billion.

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This is in response to the article “Cruising at the market” by Greg Gross, published 8/25/07 in the Daily Record.

Mr. Gross, do you always tell only half the story in your articles? What could have been a great story was sadly lacking any good information. You highlighted an Amish person who will never own a car, a family looking at the custom cars but doesn’t own one, and told of an antique that will be restored by a local business. [Blogger note: Staff photographer Kristin Murphy provided the images that accompanied this story.]

What about telling why all these cars were there? It’s the hard work of the Motor Menders Rod and Custom Club that attracts the cars every month. The May and June cruise nights each saw over 800 custom cars fill the cruise area and hundreds more spectators overflowing the other lot and the neighboring church parking lot. Those cars contained in a very conservative estimate, 2,000 people, most of who were buying food and drinks. A typical Friday evening you will see the vendors closed by 6:00 and the market empty. On the 4th Friday of the month (cruise night) the vendors are swamped until at least 8:30.

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The citizenry was greeted Monday morning with the news that yet another woman was killed in a drug deal in York. We area citizens have had just about all we can stand of this lawlessness!

When crime runs rampant and out of control, as is obvious in York, we decent citizens lose a large part of our freedom. We don't dare go into York after dark, and even in broad daylight we must avoid entire sections, such as the South Side. There are some evening meetings of civic groups in York, which I would like to attend; however, I don’t dare venture into downtown York at night; thus, a portion of my freedom has been taken away.

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Years ago, during a presidential election campaign, candidate Ross Perot warned Americans about government trade policies (NAFTA) that would produce a "giant sucking sound" of jobs leaving the country.

The American people ignored it and, as usual, went on to vote for Democrat and Republican candidates who've fulfilled his predictions. A so-called conservative Republican Congress, with some Democratic help, passed the bill and a Democrat President signed it.

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The citizens of York need to step up and do something. We either organize ourselves legally to fill the void left by bureaucracy, or things will get worse.

Something’s got to give. Either the local government does what we pay it to, or we do it ourselves. These sound like threats, but are they? What is reasonable in this situation? Do we sit on our hands and say "Oh well, the police are unreliable, I’ll just stay inside my home for the rest of my life and pay my taxes for nothing."

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In response to Gene Karpinski’s letter regarding Congressman Todd Platts’ vote for the U.S. House’s energy bill: Yes, Representative Platts did vote in favor of the development of clean energy and renewable sources for electricity, but he doesn’t support removing oil and gas industry tax breaks. Rep. Platts voted against the $16 billion tax package on U.S. oil and gas companies.

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On July 28, the 16th Annual Ray Ness Memorial Golf Tournament was held at the Briarwood Golf Club. Thanks to the 208 golfers, numerous sponsors, individuals and businesses we successfully raised $5,000 for Kid’s Chance of Pennsylvania and $3,000 for Autism Society of America.

Since the accidental work-related death of our father in 1992, one day a year we gather family and friends, to give us fond memories to cherish and allow his spirit to live on and we also raise a little money for some very worthy causes. To date the tournament has raised $55,700.

Special thanks to Briarwood Golf Club and its fine staff, Porky’s Place and Joe Oaster and his fine staff, Tracey Snyder and Matt Ferree, for the programs. And last but not least, Tina Ness Jackson for all her work behind the scenes — thanks Tina.

Again, our heartfelt thanks from Tina Ness Jackson, Penny Ness Husbands, Mike Ness and myself to everyone who helped make this year’s tournament another success.

Bryan Ness
Ray Ness Memorial Golf Committee
York Township

I work at Forsight Vision (formerly known as the York County Blind Center). When my wife cannot take me home after work, I walk. I usually pick up litter along the two-mile stretch, and I never fail to fill a plastic grocery bag with garbage.

Do people really need a legally blind man to find a can or dumpster for their trash? We can forgive the litter bugs by picking up after them, but the land itself makes no effort to forget their filthy crime.
Chris D. Gray
York

The real reason Giant stores are selling the new bags -- they used to give you three cents off your order for each bag you brought to the store and re-used. Now shoppers have to stop using our own bags and buy the Giant bags.

Henry McGann
Dover

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While most people drag their feet into work after the Labor Day holiday, nearly 270,000 people in Pennsylvania will stay home, because they simply don’t have jobs to return to.

And that’s not even the worst news: even Pennsylvanians who have jobs are struggling to make ends meet.

The median family income in our state has dropped by $1,510 between the year 2000 and 2005. Housing is growing more expensive, gas prices have skyrocketed, and health care costs are through the roof. The cost of living itself is getting out of control. Even a simple trip down to the grocery store is enough to have people scratching their heads and wondering, “When did it get so hard to get by?”

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I read the article about West York's new lunch scanning methods. Does anyone else find this reprehensible?

Not only are they demanding you set up an online account for the school to access for your child's lunch, but they are going to monitor what our children are eating. Claiming this new system will encourage our youth to have a healthier lunch. BUNK!

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To the young girl on Chapel Church Road early Saturday morning on Aug. 25, we all make bad choices. Don't ever force a dog out of your car in 95 degree heat and up and leave and don't come back. I hope you learned from this mistake. Just be glad I couldn't catch you after I got turned around and almost hit your dog as he was running toward my vehicle. Sleep tight.

Jeff Laucks
Red Lion

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Having read the editorial of Nicole Gross on Aug. 5, I was grateful that someone responded on her distorted idea of what security procedures entail.

On Aug. 26 James F. A. Spangler wrote that military officers are not above security. Anyone who reads a newspaper, watches or listens to the news knows "nobody" is above security. His comments on her abject view that she is above being suspect were sensible and insightful.

The TSA security screeners are there to protect all of us, just as she is, while performing her duties. It is good to know they were doing their job.

Susan Danyo
Conewago Township

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Accolades to two young York County Men, Alex B. Smith and Joshua Tarlow , who promoted the appearance of Herbie Hancock at the Strand -Capitol Performing Arts. What a wonderful experience you provided for all of those who were fortunate enough to be in the audience last Friday, Aug 24.

It was an opportunity to experience an intimate performance by a truly legendary artist, Herbie Hancock. Vinnie Colaiuta’s playing on “Joe’s Garage” ranks amongst the most creative drumming experiences recorded and it was breathtaking to see him perform it live. The other two members of the quartet were equally as talented and interacted with Herbie and Vinnie to delight the audience for a two hour set plus three encores.

Your first major promotion left the audience inspired when they walked out the doors into the street. The performance was awesome. We hope to see more quality promotions in the Future.

Lew Williams
Springettsbury Township

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By Matthew Jackson

The Northwest Triangle will transform the currently blighted brownfields and old industrial properties located northwest of Continental square in downtown York, bounded generally to the north and the west by the Codorus and to the east by North George Street.

The city’s largest economic development project in recent history, the Northwest Triangle is a $50 million-plus dollar ($15 million for site preparation and over $35 million in new construction), mixed-use project featuring market-rate residential, commercial office space, retail, and recreational space, including the extension of the York County Rail Trail.

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To the person or persons that stole, about four St. Joseph's Yard Sale signs, I hope that what you did made you fell better. I wish you would send me $40 the cost to replace these signs, or return them to me. I will pray for you.

John Tuleja
Spring Garden Township

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It is clear why water customers would oppose water fluoridation. The main reason is cost. Water fluoridation will be paid by all water customers with the water company’s new chemical costs, pumps, and labor to satisfy fluoride requirements. Another reason is that water fluoridation does not benefit all water customers.

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Sounds like a great place for an Indian Sovereign Nation. Everyone wants a piece of the action, including the local government which is ludicrous because it's just another tax burden. This was the last stand of the Susquehannock Indians. I say give it back and let them have a gambling facility. This solves four problems. The historical ownership, poor Indians, Rendell's gambling plan and ridiculous property tax burden in York County. It would also be a huge boost to the financial and tourism industry of York County.

Darrell Wertz
Chandler, Arizona
Formerly of York

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After reading an article from a Red Lion person regarding the school tax problem in this area, and responding to her e-mail address, I was directed to a statewide school tax elimination group that is meeting at the end of September with tax groups from all over the state to try to come up with a statewide plan to present to the legislators prior to the next election for action on school tax elimination in favor of an increase in state sales tax to fund education.

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I read with dismay your op-ed advocating flouride be added to the York water supply.

The flouridation chemicals that are put in municipal water supplies are toxic industrial waste. They are byproducts of aluminum and fertilizer manufacturing and contain a high concentration of toxins and heavy metals such as arsenic, lead and chromium. These products are not high purity and certainly not pharmaceutical grade.

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You were right to take York Township's Board of Commissioners to task for their mishandling of the Bridgewater traditional neighborhood development (TND) proposal, but your criticism slightly missed the mark.

TNDs are a developer-driven concept, sold to local municipalities as a cure for suburban sprawl. TND ordinances allow developers to build high-density, high-profit neighborhoods which increase traffic congestion. TNDs are not a cure for sprawl, they are sprawl of the worst and ugliest kind, and Bridgewater is a pathetic excuse for a TND. Bridgewater has the potential to be the first slum of the 21st century. It has more than 2 and 1/2 miles of alleys that are only 16 feet wide, so narrow that fire engines will be unable to operate there. Bridgewater has no playgrounds, athletic fields, or swimming pools, since those amenities would cost the developer money and reduce profits.

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I had heard and read a lot of opinions concerning the decision of motorcyclists not wearing helmets. It seems like there are a lot of non-motorcyclist who are concerned about our safety on the road and I appreciate that. What concerns me more is that as a daily rider back and forth to work, I encounter many drivers who are not looking out for motorcyclists. If you would poll all motorcyclists, you will probably find others who would agree that more should be done to make drivers responsible for their actions on the road.

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I wish to commend the Board of Directors of the York Water Company for their well-reasoned decision not to fluoridate the public water supply. As they have done every few years in the past, the editorial staff of our local newspaper, once again, on August 19, chose to insult those of us who are opposed to this infringement of personal freedom by declaring us to be uninformed or afraid.

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I read your recent editorial alleging that Pennsylvania Lottery advertising starring Gus, the second most-famous groundhog in Pennsylvania, is funded by taxpayer dollars (Gus on Public Payroll, Aug. 20) and I’m writing to set the record straight.

As the person who oversees the state Revenue Department and the Pennsylvania Lottery, I can tell you that Lottery advertising – including television spots featuring Gus – is funded entirely by sales of Lottery tickets. Not one penny of state tax money is used to pay for Pennsylvania Lottery advertising. Therefore, the proposed legislation referred to in the editorial that would add a “Paid for with Pennsylvania taxpayer dollars” tag line to state-funded advertising would not apply to Pennsylvania Lottery advertising.

The Pennsylvania Lottery remains the only state lottery in the country that dedicates all of its proceeds to programs that benefit older residents. Last year, Gus helped the Pennsylvania Lottery grow its sales to an all-time record, generating more than $949 million for programs that benefit our older residents. No state tax money is used in raising this money for seniors, as the Lottery is fully funded through its ticket sales.

THOMAS W. WOLF
SECRETARY OF REVENUE

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All of us are poisoned when graffiti is used to convey messages of anger and hate.

This summer the greater York community has been the victim of many such incidents of graffiti and vandalism. It doesn’t matter whose property is affected – we all become victims when the actions of “one” affect the quality of life for all.

While the use of graffiti has been seen as a reclamation of public space by its supporters, the rest of us see it as an unwanted nuisance that costs our community in more than just dollars. When left unchecked it can lead to a general sense of disregard for both the institutions that are targeted and for the environment in which we all live.

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It would be interesting to know what Jeff Klinedinst’s qualifications are for being a Community Columnist in the York Sunday News. Is it his antipathy for opposing views? His consistently banal arguments against liberals, democrats and progressive thinkers would be suited best for bar rooms in “good ol’ boy” country, not in the York Sunday News. The tiresome anti-liberal droning of Mr. Klinedinst and fellow far-right columnists appearing in the York papers such as Cal Thomas, George Will, and Bill O’Reilly underscores that these columnists have nothing fresh or new to offer readers other than divisiveness and hard-headed support of conservative leaders no matter how fraught their editorials are with hypocrisy and double standards.

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Many have praised the new stadium and the the atmosphere of a York Revolution ball game, and I agree! Our family has enjoyed going to every game and our seats are fantastic. But now I feel it is time to address the product on the field. I have always worried that the quality of play would someday become secondary to promotions, giveaways and furry mascots. I fear we are dangerously close to that point. Revolution games are often over three hours long (or at least they feel that way). The pitching is terrible and the fielding is uneven at best (seven errors in one game!). This is a hitters league but they seem to dominate because of a lack of good pitching.

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Just to set the record straight: I am no expert on the “space program” or anything else for that matter. I have, at best, a lay knowledge of the many missions undertaken in the last 50 years “to boldly go where no men have gone before.”

Baby boomers have an advantage in perspective on the space age, and I am very much one of them. I was 10 with Sputnik and 22 when we had put men on the moon. We even got those brave souls back safely to Earth. What an amazing accomplishment that was! Everything else that has been accomplished since then, in my opinion, pales in comparison. There is no doubt that the space program has contributed much to our technology including computerization, miniaturization, global positioning systems, and on and on.

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Over the summer, many American's spent time hiking, camping and partaking in outdoor activities in our national forests. While we consider these pristine places off limits and protected, the shocking truth is that for years we've allowed extensive logging, oil and gas drilling and road-building in our national forests.

Unfortunately, in 2005 the Bush administration attempted to repeal the Roadless Area Conservation Rule which set out to protect wilderness areas in America's national forests from the damaging activities stated above. This repeal left 58.5 million acres of wild areas vulnerable to logging, mining and oil drilling.

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I am urging everyone to contact their legislators and tell them you want House Bill 1065 passed - Anti-Tethering Legislation for PA. This new bill will limit the time dogs can be tethered, clean food, water, shelter and properly fitted collars.

Too many dogs are left out in 24 hours a day in all kinds of weather with no shelter; with sporadic feedings, dirty/no water, parasites and embedded collars in their neck.

All we ask is for better conditions for them. It's bad enough these poor creatures don't get human companionship - the least we can do is give them clean food, water, shelter and some comfort.

Phyllis Soldano
York

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A question to those who attended the concert on Aug. 18 at the Pullo Center at Penn State York, did you close your eyes and think back to the TAC (teenagers club) at the Alcazar Ballroom? A question to those that didn’t attend that concert, where were you? If only you could hear what you missed.

It was an evening of music that brought back a lot of wonderful memories. The York Symphony, one of York’s best-kept secrets, was lead by a guest conductor, Victor Vanacore.

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This is in response to the August 21, 2007 letter to the editor titled “Crime Problems in Stewartstown Area.” The Stewartstown Police Department has offered the Supervisors of Hopewell Township on several occasions in the past, police services in Hopewell Twp. which includes Stewartstown Station. Since it seems that your main concern is police coverage in Hopewell Twp, I strongly recommend you attend one of your Hopewell Township meetings and discuss your concerns with the Supervisors.

As per your comments about the problems on Main Street, please feel free to inform us of these problems you are referring to and also the source in which you are receiving this information due to the fact that we are also unaware of your references.

We have an excellent Police Department and I can truly say the Officers are doing an outstanding job protecting the citizens of Stewartstown Borough and are professional in carrying out their duties.

Richard Hall
Mayor of Stewartstown

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Please keep your opinions to yourself about flouride in the water. I praise the water company for not putting it in the water so stay out of it. If you're thinking about tooth cavities -- that comes from eating too much sugar. Therefore stay away from it.

Again keep your thoughts to yourself.

Sterling Showers
York

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Many have criticized the paper for having a "liberal" bias, but sometimes I am not so sure. I understand that all coverage is inevitably biased in some way but I'm often perplexed by what view and ultimate values shape local stories.

In Saturday's York Daily Record there were two brief announcements, one with an editorializing comment, the other without. A story about a documentary on John Lennon noted its great music but insisted that the viewer would have to "get past" the controversial politics. Lennon's anti-war, human rights and social justice campaigns were legendary; it is certainly not a liberal bias to be told to avoid Lennon's anti-imperial critique just to get to the good parts.

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When WellSpan decided to ban smoking on all of its premises, it appears they gave little thought on how it would affect the surrounding communities.

I live in the neighborhood behind York Hospital. Initially, the smokers would step off the sidewalk or walk across the street to get their fix. If you looked closely at any of those areas they were strewn with cigarette butts. Then the Hospital put a new policy into effect that stated that the smokers could not smoke within view of the building. So now that have chased these people deeper into our neighborhoods.

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Baseball has come to fruition in York. We’ve waited a long time and now we have a beautiful stadium in downtown York. It’s great to see so many people out-and-about in center city. I attended the first game, along with about 5500 other people, and watched a lot of people be recognized for their part in bringing baseball to downtown York. However, one person was overlooked that night; former Mayor Charlie Robertson. If Charlie would not have started working 10 years ago to bring baseball to downtown York, we wouldn’t have a team today.

It’s about time York does something for the man that is really responsible for bringing thousands of people downtown to watch baseball. Many people feel the same way that I feel. Let’s put politics aside and give credit where credit is due.

Scott L. Davidson
York

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Jeff Klinedinst (Sunday News, Aug. 19), has no idea how the newspaper business works.

In his rant about "honesty in the press," he talks mostly about television, which, by definition, is not part of the press, which is the print media.

I won't talk too much about TV, except to say that Fox News is the most biased media outlet, giving a forum to some totally bogus ideas. Dan Rather was correctly criticized for using falsified documents about George Bush's National Guard service. But the story wasn't wrong, Bush did shirk his National Guard obligations.

As for the internet, anyone can post anything on there.

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Michael Vick and his cohorts are monsters, period. Why are there people out there who mistreat, torture and murder innocent animals? You are either evil or have no conscious at all and are pathetic.

I am a pet owner and love my cats dearly. Seeing their little faces when I come home from work every day, no matter how bad it was, I am happy to see them. Some say "oh it's just a dog or cat." Well that's your unfortunate opinion. Many people consider their pets a member of their family, like a child of their own. I am one of them.

This is why our lawmakers need to really toughen the laws on animal cruelty. I'm tired and disgusted with the slap on the wrist and a lame fine. These people need to go to jail for a long time. If they do this to a helpless animal, what do you think they can do to a human being?

Jackie Pena
York Township

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I am writing to commend the work done by the York County SPCA (animal shelter) staff and volunteers. I just spent all day today volunteering at the shelter, and observed the boundless energy, dedication, and love that these wonderful people give to the homeless animals of York County. They work endlessly to assist the animals that others fail to care for and give each one the love and care it deserves.

At this time, the shelter has over 600 cats in its care and are packed to capacity with dogs as well. They are working diligently to place these animals, but they need your help.

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Did you know ... that back in the days of horse drawn fire apparatus (at the turn of the previous century), the fire station horses were extremely well trained. So much so, that whenever the alarm bell sounded, they moved, unescorted, into the “hitching position” to be drawn-up to their respective wagons.

Did you know the firehouse at the corner of Market and Carlisle, currently housing the York County Fire Museum, was built without a dime of taxpayer’s money? It was constructed solely by concerned business and civic leaders, Yorkers who realized their success and personal safety were well worth the cost of the station. And did you know that men wept at the passing of “Mack,” the famous fire station horse who served York for so many years. Dear Old Mack is now buried in the front yard of the Fire Museum.

These and other fascinating facts were discovered at our recent visit to the Fire Museum. Dick Lehr, former firefighter and now Museum Volunteer, took the time to walk and talk us through the Museum. He’s a wealth of information and we enjoyed his easy-going style. A special thanks to Mr. Lehr and the entire Heritage Trust organization for preserving a by-gone time, something all Yorkers can take pride in.

Jeff Herbst
York Township

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I just wanted to comment on the good manners of an Asplundah Tree Service truck driver.

Friday (Aug. 17) while crossing Routes 216 and 616 in Glen Rock, this driver slowed his truck almost to a stop to make sure I got across the street safely. I am a senior and do walk with a cane, but not all (in fact very few) drivers do this. I didn't see any markings that would allow me to note a truck or driver ID, but I did want to commend him! His mother did a good job with that one.

Diane N. Stewart
Glen Rock

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Your support of fluoridation of our water must be reconsidered. You said, "The benefits of fluoridation of water are nearly unassailable." You are very misinformed about the subject. The fluoride added to water is a toxic industrial waste product. The dangers of fluoridation have been known since the 1930s when ALCOA Aluminum began their campaign to convince politicians and health officials to add their waste fluorides to the public water supply. The controversy has raged ever since.

Today the scientific evidence has proven that many human ailments and disorders can be linked to flouride in the water. And, contrary to popular belief, there is no proof that fluoride in the water fights cavities. Please investigate the subject further and you may find that the "reputable studies" you refer to have been refuted. It may become clear to you that the York Water Company customers who oppose fluoridation are well informed about the dangers to their health. You may want to start with this website.

Barbara Vojticek
Springettsbury Township

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Are you upset that your school tax continues to rise so much year after year? If you aren't upset, you haven't been paying attention. In general over the last 10 years, school taxes have increased on average each year 2.5 times faster than inflation and 2 times faster than our income while student achievement has actually declined in some School Districts. The
truth is that we are spending more to learn less. Our hard earned tax dollars are being wasted because the public school monopoly has become too costly, non competitive and inefficient. School choice with the money following the student would improve our public schools. School Boards have added too much administration under the guise of complying with mandates. Teacher pay and benefits per hour worked are considerably higher than comparable professionals in the private sector.

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I am disgusted by a driver driving entirely too fast Aug. 14, around 8 p.m. The speed limit is 25 MPH, and there is an elementary school doors down from our home. There are many children in this neighborhood.

The speed limit is 25 MPH for a reason! You hit my cat today, and kept on driving while I was out on my driveway with my children! You know you hit the cat because you slowed down afterwards! I contacted 911 and an officer from Springettsbury Township kindly called me back as follow up.

You know who you are and owe me and my family an apology! I was standing right there when you hit the cat! You know who you are and should be ashamed at yourself for being so irresponsible. Entirely too many people use Erlen instead of Haines Road and drive too fast.

God forbid next time you hit a child! Slow down, and learn to be a responsible adult!

Gina Klein
Springettsbury Township

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The City of York frequently complains that it has no money for police and other basic services. However, the City Redevelopment Authority continues to accrue interest at the rate of 6% per annum in a $166,000.00 judgment entered by a jury on May 9, 2007.

This all started when York College unsuccessfully tried to buy two properties on the North side of its campus at 243/245 West Springettsbury Avenue for use as student housing. The College offered the owner less than what he wanted for the two student rental properties.

York College officials then asked the City of York for help. The City's Economic Development Director who also serves as the City's Redevelopment Autrhority Director offered to help York College acquire the property without having to negotiate with the owner to buy the properties.

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A funny thing happen to me on my path to prayer, God came into my life. He came to me as real as the newspaper your reading. I knew that God was within me, and that He was guiding all that I said and did.

He asked me to help my brothers, and sisters that were less fortunate. I continued to pray, and He continued to give me strength, courage, and help. He brought people into my life to help me. I am sure he was guiding them like He was guiding me.

I just want to use this opportunity to honor God for all that he has given me. I want to thank God for my family, my friends, my work, and most of all His trust in me. If you hear his voice, listen to him. He will show you what you are to do. So pray, do not worry, and be not afraid, you will be given so much in return.

Ralph Sierra
Mount Wolf

I found the latest attempt in Congress to roll back the clock on reproductive health care simply outrageous. Earlier this month, anti-choice hardliner Rep. Mike Pence of Indiana proposed an amendment (H.R. 3043, Amendment 594) to a key federal spending bill that would have restricted federal funds for birth control from going to Planned Parenthood health centers.

Congressman Todd Platts chose to support this amendment that would have defunded Planned Parenthood of Central PA (PPCP).

This amendment to the Labor Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill in its entirety stated: "None of the funds made available under this Act shall be available to Planned Parenthood for family planning projects under Title X of the Public Health Services Act."

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The City of York would like to thank all of the concertgoers who attended this summer's Pops In the Park Concert Series at the Farquhar Park BandStand. This year's attendance reached a total of 1300 for all of the concerts which took place from July 22 to August 12.

The City would especially like to thank the York Symphony Orchestra, all of its volunteers and all of the funders who made the concert series possible.

As many of us know this summer's concert series experienced an unprecedented amount of media attention due to the assault of Dr. Richard Hupper, the Symphony's past board president. To the Symphony's credit and to all those in our community who attended the concerts, the event continued despite this incident. Thank you to all of you who stood up and took a stand against this senseless act of violence.

Now that the summer concert series is over, we as a City government continue to work hard to ensure the safety of our residents and our visitors, be it at the Farquhar Park BandStand or in any other part of the City.

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As a retired enlisted member of our military forces (MSgt, USAF) I am disappointed to read of a military officer voicing outrage at being subjected to the same security measures that her fellow citizens must undergo. This officer’s lack of awareness, much less planning for what has been common practice for many years, causes me to be concerned for the soldiers under her command. If she was this humiliated and aggravated over airport screening, she must have been a real wreck during military basic training.

She writes, “ A rational person would recognize that a white female, U.S. military officer… does not fit the profile of a terrorist.” This statement borders on racism and further fuels the arguments of non-whites concerning racial profiling. Terrorists are of all races and creeds. We read with dismay of an American soldier in a combat zone killing his fellow soldiers as they slept. What is to stop a blonde haired blue-eyed person from making a statement against the war by setting off a bomb? It happened in the 1960s. American military uniforms are easily obtained. In the 1980’s I was stationed in Germany. An American soldier was killed and his ID card used to gain access to an American airbase and a car bomb detonated.

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I am writing to thank the Patriot Guard Riders for escorting a fallen patriot home from Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. I am proud of each and every one of you.

We live in the greatest country on the face of the earth. Our greatness and freedom is due, in large part, to the integrity of our military. To my father who was a WWII veteran, to my nephew who is a Gulf War veteran, to those who are currently serving in the armed forces, and to all veterans, you should be proud of your service to our country. Regardless of when or where you served, you were there when America called upon you to fight aggression, preserve peace, and secure freedom throughout the world. Thank you for doing the most important job on the planet, which is defending world peace. I proudly salute each and every one of you.

So the next time you see an armed forces person out in the community, go up and shake their hand or pat them on the back. Let them know you appreciate their sacrifice to you and this country. And for any organization or individuals, who feel the need to protest the military, please do not do it at funerals. The grieving families and friends need and deserve their private time to say goodbye to their loved one. The grief process over losing anyone we love is heart-wrenching. So, if you want to protest, go to Washington DC, or better yet, go to Iraq!

Susan Horn
Windsor Township

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Opponents of cyber schools continue to spread misinformation about these innovative public schools. They claim cyber schools are unaccountable and receive too much funding. They are wrong. (“Cyber-school funding subject of debate, Aug. 12)

Cyber schools are as accountable as every other public school in the state. They are designated with the same local education agency status as school districts, thus are held to the same state and federal accountability standards, audits and reporting requirements. If a cyber school is not succeeding, their charter could be revoked and their school closed – a level of accountability school districts never face.

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I was interested to read Capt. Nicole Gross’s column on her experiences with airport security at the airport in Harrisburg. She was returning to Afghanistan from a visit home. She was traveling in her combat uniform. She set off the metal detector and so was taken aside and patted down, searched and wanded. They called for extra security. I travel in a wheelchair. I get taken to a side area and am wanded and patted down for every flight. If I’m wearing my TENS unit on my back, I show it to them right away because it involves wires and batteries and is attached to me. They check it for explosives. I’m 65 years old with gray hair and I’m an American citizen. I don’t think I’m at all threatening. I always thank them because I know they are just doing their jobs to keep us safe. It is the same at every airport.

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With all the bad press youth get, I’d like to let York know about four outstanding teenagers who pulled together a full theatrical production with lavish sets and costumes with practically no adult involvement.

Erin Rosner, 18, directed and Stephen Payne, 14, co-directed York Little Theatre’s recent youth musical “Captain Hook,” based on the legends of Peter Pan. With the help of Julia Conran, 16, their production stage manager, and Johanna Slankard, 17, their lighting designer, they managed to put on an fantastic show with 30 performers from the ages of 3- to 18-years old. That would have been quite something for an adult, but these three young people rose to the challenge and did a wonderful job.

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Thorns to the York City Police Department. Instead of having its officers investigating all the robberies, beatings, burglaries, shootings and murders, occuring in and around York, the officers are arresting prostitutes. WHOOOPIE, way to go chief.

Harry Snyder
York

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I read Mr. Brian Wilson's letter regarding a painting flap, which targeted Councilwoman Shelley Metzler as playing politics, suggesting she is just thinking of herself.

Firstly, it is my understanding that a program is already in place, implemented by the West York Borough Council, to clean up and paint curbs. I also understand that the color of paint must be approved, to which Mr. Wilson and his helpers did not adhere.

I am speaking up regarding Ms. Metzler's motives. I know how civic minded she is, because I've seen firsthand, many times, her commitment to West York Borough.

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By now you all should know all the shelters are full past capacity No one is even taking any more cats in. That leaves people to put their cats out on the streets to reproduce and make more cats or put their beloved pets to sleep because they can't take them with them.

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Amazing to me that the information and actual pictures of dog fighting is all over the news because a celebrity was involved in this atrocious 'sport' . Now that we all know the ugly truth about dog fighting and how dogs rip each other apart, where is the uglier truth about unborn humans being ripped apart in their mother's wombs by the act of abortion?

Christina Stoner
Dillsburg

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It was sad, for us, to read that Mr. Danner, from the Danner Funeral Home, died this past week.
Almost a decade ago we started our own business. Times were real tough and in our industry, which is stained glass, jobs were not easy to be gotten especially being self-made and without a lot of experience. We were working 80 hours a week and teaching ourselves what we wanted our life's work to be.

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The Windy Hill Senior Center, located at 50 North East Street in Spring Grove has been providing a valuable service to the senior population in the Spring Grove Area for the past 26 years.

Each month hundreds of older adults are given the opportunity to socialize, learn, get nourishment, have fun and maintain their independence by participating in the many activities and services that are available. The center has grown by “leaps and bounds” over the past year and it would not have been possible without community support.

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I can't understand why Cameron Texter's personal business is so important to the public that it has to be detailed in the newspaper. I realize that the man holds a public office. Unless someone can prove that he has done something wrong-that is of importance TO THE PUBLIC --why can't his privacy be respected?

If you think it's easy raising a child/teen in today's world -- especially while you are going through a divorce -- than maybe you should call CYS and they could fill some of your spare bedrooms.

Linda Sleeger
West York

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We applaud Representative Todd Platts for being a champion of real solutions to our energy challenges, including the energy bill just passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. This forward-looking legislation includes important efficiency, conservation, and clean energy measures and repeals approximately $15 billion dollars in excessive tax breaks to the oil and gas industry.

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I want to thank Congressman Todd Platts for being a leader in the fight to reduce the threat of global warming to our Nation's fish and wildlife. He not only voted for legislation that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, he was also the lead sponsor of the Renewable Energy Standards amendment.

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I don't think anyone is happy with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Total duds, as we try to impose democracy on societies that don't understand our 'values'. Or, with Afghanistan's love of the production of poppies and the revenue.

But, what the hell is Bob Casey Jr. doing in Iraq and subsequently Jordan?

He was pretty much a dud as Treasury secretary for the Commonwealth, and, as of late, has been a lock-in-step Dem.

My question is simple. Are these trips to the Middle East out of pocket...i.e., his salary? Or, are we getting hosed for some ridiculous junket?

Chris Eisenhart
Wrightsville

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In reference to a story by Dave McCarty in the Sunday News (Aug. 5) entitled "Good Riddance to School Uniforms" he said, "Get Real, Mr. Kirkland."

My comment: "Here's reality, students' win!" York City school administrators couldn't inforce the Uniform Policy so they gave in.

Jim Beveridge
Spring Garden Township

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The safety of our neighborhoods begins with the involvement of citizens. York County Crime Stoppers has a long tradition of giving citizens the opportunity to provide information through confidential tips. These tips have assisted in solving numerous crimes.

Recent criminal activity demonstrates the continuous need for our community to provide information on crimes. Without community involvement, many crimes may go unsolved. If you have information concerning a crime, call the York County Crime Stoppers' anonymous tip line at 755-TIPS or 1-800-722-0991.

Together, we can make a difference. York County Crime Stoppers is a volunteer, non-profit organization. For additional information, or to learn ways you can support or contribute to Crime Stoppers, visit our web site at www.yorkcountycrimestoppers.org .

Bernadette Lauer
President
York County Crime Stoppers

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I am curious about mosquitoes' breeding grounds. According to the YDR and York County's West Nile virus program coordinator, Tom Smith, "A stretch of Springettsbury Township north of Route 30 between North Hills Rd. and Sherman St. is one of the areas workers sprayed last week." They sprayed to combat a swelling in the mosquito population based on monitoring in key spots in the county.

Instead of spraying, why not nip the problem in the bud? Has anyone driven down a forgotten stretch of road named Eberts Lane recently? (The Eberts Lane between Springettsbury and Spring Garden Townships) Here you will find abandoned tires, TVs, couches and just about anything else ignorant people will abandon on the side of the road. What a perfect breeding ground for the nasty, disease carrying pests! Given the fact that they are so well equipped to travel, I would suspect that this area is a prime breeding ground! Drive by after a rain!

My idea is to prevent the problem before it happens. First, clean up Eberts Lane and prevent the lazy population from using it as an illegal dumping ground. Second, educate people!

Mary Younger
Springettsbury Township

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I would like to thank Congressman Todd Platts for introducing and championing an amendment to establish a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES). The U.S. House of Representatives passed this important amendment Saturday as part of a broader national energy bill.

The passage of the RES along with the larger energy bill would take significant steps toward a cleaner and more secure energy future for Pennsylvania and the entire country. The RES requires that utilities generate 15% of their electricity from clean, renewable energy such as wind, solar, or biomass, or through energy efficiency savings by 2020.

Julia Kalloz
PennEnvironment

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We thank Congressman Platts for standing up to massive opposition by coal-fired utility companies and their allies, and joining a broad coalition of environmentalists, labor unions, farm groups, and clean energy developers to champion and pass this bipartisan legislation.

Upon reading your editorial on signs I find the comparison between "cheap roadside signs" and real estate & political signs a bit of a stretch. I have worked with Realtors for 30+ years and my husband and I are involved in local politics. It has been my personal experience that both Realtors and politicians educate themselves about township ordinances and do their best to adhere to the regulations. On the other hand, I see no effort by the people who place these "cheap roadside signs" to even find out what the ordinances are, let alone try to adhere to them.

Additionally, I wonder what our roadsides would look like if every business in York County decided to use "cheap roadside signs" to advertise. Real estate and political signs are by their very nature temporary. The only thing temporary about the "cheap roadside signs" is how long they can survive out there. Which in my opinion is too long.

Connie Hannigan
Hellam Township

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Recently, a Shrewsbury pediatrician was given a year of probation for pulling a .357 Magnum at a Maryland driver who was sitting in the southbound passing lane of I-83 near the Shrewsbury exit doing 55 mph. If I'm correct, the speed limit there is 65 mph.

It was correct to charge the pediatrician, but I can imagine his years of frustration dealing with Maryland drivers who persist in not moving over to the slower lane for faster traffic. I think it's a game they play: Let's see how long a line I can get behind my car. Like the Pied Piper of the interstate. I wonder if that Maryland driver was charged for unsafe driving?

In Pennsylvania when I learned to drive several decades ago, there was a rule about slower traffic staying in the right lane, or moving over to the right lane for passing traffic. It's not safe to pass on the left, but Maryland drivers aggravate the situation by sitting in the left lane, oblivious to the chaos behind them and ultimately to the right of them. My own twin brother who defected South a few decades ago has become a Maryland driver, much to my dismay.

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In response to the lame attempt to extract a joke out of the July 8th 2007 York Sunday News article written about Lt. Pat Rose’s (York City Fire Department) trip to Poland, please allow me to provide further details on this so-called “Faulty Light Bulb Workshop”.

Lt. Pat Rose chose to spend the week in a military tent in extreme hot, cold and wet conditions along with a bout of illness all to learn about and to teach firefighting and rescue with an open mind. He considered this culturally diverse opportunity an honor and paid for the trip on his own.

So What Have We Learned? That one has to wonder if the authors of this article would do the same on their own dime.

Karen Rose
Manchester Township

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I could not help but to shed some light on the current do nothing council of West York Borough. It wasn’t surprising that they are scrambling to do what they do best. A whole lot of nothing!

They find it more important to play out their Republican campaign agenda during public meetings at taxpayer’s expense. They went even further reaffirming that they believe West York is for only people they approve of personally. If you are poor, if you rent, if you don’t look like them, then good luck!

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With the recent bridge failure in Minnesota everyone is talking about the poor condition of the roads and bridges in in the commonwealth. Ever wonder why this is? In 2006, Gov. Rendall reallocated $400 million of fuel tax monies intended for road/bridge construction to the Philadelphia Mass Transit System.

The Commonwealth ended up the budget year of 2006 with a massive tax surplus. Why weren't these funds applied to repair the roads and bridges that we now hear are in such a deploratory condition? Now that there has been a disaster, we hear the need to raise taxes for repairing of our bridges and roads.

I challenge this need as we should go back to Philadelphia for the $400 million and than begin to use the fuel tax monies where they are intended to be used -- maintaining the infrastructure not securing one's political future.

Marshal Gene Saul
Spring Grove

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This letter is written to warn Stewartstown residents that they need to be aware of what is happening in this nice residential town. I woke up this morning (Aug. 3) to find that someone had vandalized my pool causing a baseball size hole in the liner and 12,000 gallons of water gone! After calling the state police (Stewartstown Police will not respond to calls in Stewartstown Station) the officer stated that Stewartstown is being hit hard with vandalism. I knew we had problems on Main Street, but was never made aware of how bad things have been.

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I would like to remind telephone subscribers that those who registered for the state’s Do Not Call list when it was first created five years ago need to renew their registration.

The Do Not Call law, which was enacted by the General Assembly in 2002, provides Pennsylvanians with a means of avoiding unwanted phone calls from telemarketers or other solicitors; however, registration is only valid for five years from the date of initial registration.

The program has been very popular among Pennsylvanians whose homes have been disturbed by the nuisance of phone calls from telemarketers. Nearly one million telephone subscribers registered for the state’s Do Not Call list in the first two weeks, and millions more have registered in the five years since its enactment.

The list is updated quarterly and applies to both residential landline and wireless telephone numbers. To sign up or reregister for the Commonwealth’s Do Not Call list, please call toll free at 1-888-777-3406 or go to www.attorneygeneral.gov/dnc.aspx.
For assistance on how to register or update your registration for the Do Not Call list, please contact my district office at (717) 840-4711, or visit my Web site at RepGillespie.com.

Rep. Keith Gillespie
47th Legislative District

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When I contemplate the persistence of racial problems in cities such as York, I usually find myself retreating to the writings of W. E. B. Dubois.

“If you do not lift them up, they will pull you down,” he warned America. Although written 100 years ago, two generations after the end of slavery, the words remain hauntingly prescient.

Dubois succinctly stated his strategy for achieving racial equality: “Develop the Best of this race that they may guide the Mass away from the contamination of the Worst.”

He, of course, would be spinning in his grave if he could witness what has happened to the black community in the past two generations. Talented blacks have achieved great things, but they hold little sway over the masses of blacks who comprise an urban underclass.

Instead, the rap/hip-hop culture, a creation of the worst elements of the black community, is the dominant influence, dragging masses of young blacks into a cultural morass with its sullen, anti-social messages. For every child inspired by Wynton Marsalis, there are ten who want to emulate Snoop Dogg.

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York City Councilwoman Toni Smith has issued a plea to the community to get involved with crime and other issues that are a detriment to the residents. However, it's not as simple as Mrs. Smith thinks. I am a life-long city resident and supporter of the city. I also work for a non-profit organization in the city, so I have a two-fold interest in its people and welfare.

On July 29, my parked vehicle along with three other vehicles, was struck by a 19-year-old alleged drunk driver of an uninsured vehicle, who also left the scene and was apprehended by another victim of the incident. The police could not provide any information at the time regarding the driver or owner of the car. Since July 31, I have been to the police station and also left two messages for the officer who responded to the incident and was told that I would definitely receive a return call when the officer came on duty that night. In addition the Records Department told me I could not have a copy of the report without paying for it; however, the clerk advised I could “look at the report and write the information down.”

To date I have not received a return call from the York City Police. I realize this is not on the same scale as a murder or a crime involving injury, however, a few thousand dollars is involved for which I am responsible since I do not carry physical damage on my vehicle due to its age. I truly do not think a return phone call too much to ask and I think a week is a more than reasonable amount of time in which to expect it.

Mrs. Smith, we as city residents tend not to get involved because our efforts seem to be fruitless.

Cheryl Kauffman
York

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Cheryl Kauffman

It seems like at least once a week I read about someone killed on a motorcycle. There were two fatal accidents last week in York County. One rider had a helmet on, one didn't. Same result, both were killed.

What was the same in both cases was that they were both cut off by someone in a car, or in one case, a bus, making a left hand turn right in front of them. They had no chance.

People can argue all they want about helmets but what we really need to preach about is motorcycle awareness. Motorcycles are everywhere, accept it. Please when you're behind the wheel, give it your full attention. Sometimes you may not see them but you hear them. Take a few seconds to be sure it's clear before turning into traffic.

Look twice, save a life.

Tim Lynch
Red Lion

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In regard to the homes that were so quickly demolished by the city of York after the natural gas explosion. Why is the Graybill building on Broad Street still standing after half of it collapsed earlier this year? The entire site is an eyesore and in a few weeks there will be children walking by it on a daily basis as they go to and from school. There seems to be no rush to cleaning up this area.

Why isn't the city in such a great big hurry to level that building just as they were when they demolished those homes? I guess the city knows what is best for its citizens.

Kraig Spangler
York

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I appreciated so much the syndicated column written by Cynthia Tucker which appeared in the York Daily Record, 8/3/07. Her article, entitled "Outrage for Annaijh," expressed the same disgust which all of us should feel when the senseless murder of a little girl is treated so callously by local authorities in Atlanta. Here is Ms. Tucker's summary of the attitude of the police toward Annaijh Rolax's death: "...she was just collateral damage, a tragic consequence of poor marksmanship."

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This is a thank you to the nice young couple that stopped on Sunday evening, 7/29 to help us pull our car out of the flooded waters along Richland Avenue. We slowed for the high water at Kings Mill Rd but never saw the deep water pooled in front of Richland Motors. We hit it and instantly the car died and began filling up, the water was up to the seats within minutes.

This nice young couple in a maroon pick up came up as were waiting for emergency help from 911 and asked if we needed pulled out. They lived up the street and came back with chains and pulled the vehicle out. The woman assisted me with an umbrella and chit chat to calm me down since I was just a bit frazzled to say the least.

In this day and age, with all the crime stories, it is nice to know that there are still people, young people, who are willing to stop and help others. We never got your names and wanted you to know that we truly appreciated your kindness. We also appreciated the help extended by the young man from Domino's that tried to jump our car and assisted in pushing it off the road. You are examples of the York County that we remember from years past. Let's get back to those days again.

Lori and Steve Brown
Dover

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Ruben Navarrette, evidently unable to engage the arguments for sealing our borders, resorts instead to ad hominem. It's a time-honored technique for persuading the uncritical of the justness of one's own position, and Navarrette employs it deftly. He attacks not only the motives of those with whom he disagrees but also insults them personally.

In his column (7/31) he strongly suggests that opposition to open borders is due to racism and nativism. His evidence is less than compelling, consisting as it does of surveys which show that Hispanics tend to feel that there's been an increase in anti-immigrant sentiment and some of his e-mail has been nasty. None of this proves, of course, that the objections to the recent immigration reform bill were invalid.

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Having been born in York and raised in York County, I consider myself a native to the area and return on occasion. I suppose this might give me license to be a critical observer of my home city. Most recently I had the privilege to spend the weekend in a downtown hotel. My wife and I spent time walking around the downtown area. Shame on York. Shame on York's leaders. Shame on the elected officials. What have you allowed to happen to this once colonial gem.

The dilapidated condition of once proud streets like Queen and Duke is heart wrenching. The Sunday morning streets were blowing in the wind with trash and debris. As the morning progressed my wife and I became very uncomfortable with our walk because of tough looking and acting punks with their foul language, loud shouts and comments to one another. We passed few people that had the common courtesy to return our good morning greeting.

York is rusting away. I believe that many of your citizens no longer care about civility. It is very obvious that proper parenting is no longer part of the York City culture. The class of people I saw was very discouraging. I grew up in the 60s and 70s and we had very little money but our parents taught us to be proud people. People that had respect for others and knew how to conduct ourselves in public.

Good manners are free for all to use. The beauty of any city can be greatly improved with a little politeness. Perhaps some manners and ethics would go a long way in improving York's image.

ROBERT SHAFFER
BALTIMORE

I was very dissappointed to hear of Congressman Platt's recent support of the Pence Amendment which denied funding to Planned Parenthood centers (H.R. 3043, Amendment 594.) This amendment stated that none of the funds from Title X should be available to Planned Parenthood for family planning projects. I really don't understand why and am very upset with Congressman Platts for supporting it.

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I support, and ask my fellow citizens to please support Senate Bill S.961. It provides benefits to Merchant Marine personnel that served our country during WW II. They often were at the mercy of the enemy, and had little or no way to defend themselves. They played a very vital role in winning the war, and they should receive, and rightly deserve all benefits that veterans enjoy.

Please write your Senators and ask them to support this bill.

Ralph Sierra
Mount Wolf

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Lately, tire stores has been promoting the fuel savings which can be obtained by inflating car tires with pure Nitrogen instead of air. When gas prices rise precipitously, we all become desperate for free or inexpensive ways to save fuel dollars. Rest assured, virtually all of the benefits that can be obtained by keeping your tires fully inflated with pure Nitrogen can be obtained by keeping your tires fully inflated with plain old air.

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In Father Robert Nugent's piece (York Sunday News, 7/29/07), he goes to great lengths to explain why the Pope promotes the view that the Catholic Church is the only true church and that the rest of the non-Catholic Churches throughout the world are, for want of a better word, "mistakes." Nugent uses the word, "wounded" instead of "mistakes" however, that, essentially, is what he means. It's just that we have to be politically correct about such things or else he'd have a riot on his hands.

So how do all you Presbyterians, Baptists and Methodists feel about being labeled as, at best, a church with a small "c"? How do you feel about being told by a local priest that you just don't measure up as determined by his superior?

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Mike Argento's caustic opinion editorial on Attorney General Alberto Gonzales that was published July 29, derided people with developmental disabilities as much as it derided Attorney General Gonzales.

I think that when Mr. Argento wants to express his opinion he needs to be a responsible journalist and address the topic without making an analogy that it is unnecessary and inappropriate. Perhaps Mr. Argento was trying to be "politically correct" but rather he ridiculed people who have no relationship to the issue and it was insensitive.

Ronnee Greenstein
Hanover

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I enjoy reading Ahmad Seifullah's articles. They give me a lot of insight. My wife and I are both survivors and we try to teach as much as we can. We both have had major health problems which we have overcome both with the help of doctors and our desires to "survive."

I too was born and raised in York City. The second house from the corner of College Avenue and Green Street, back in the day when Codorus Street still existed. I have fond memories of my days as a child growing up there and the "street-wise" education I received from all my neighbors -- both black and white.

In Seifullah's article this past Sunday he spelled the word God twice using the characters G-d. Was there a purpose for that or were they just typographical errors? I doubt if they were errors. I've read his articles and have yet to find errors in typing.

Please keep up the good work Mr. Seifullah. You do a fine job and the community needs you and a lot more educaters like yourself. I work at the York County Prison and I come in contact with a lot of people who could use your insight into life.

Robert Jerry Akin
Dover

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Recently I called a editor to complain about Mike Argento. I was told he was covering the local issues. Well if he is a local guy you must not be reading his left wing column. Because 75% of his stuff is bashing the Bush admin.Why don't you put him to work, (if he knows all the solutions), on the local crime, school taxes, and road condition problems.

Anthony Difurio
Spring Garden Township

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York County has become too overgrown for it's own good. Too many people and the roads cannot accomodate everyone! The newly paved "Race Track" aka Windsor Road, has now become even more dangerous!

I am a careful driver, but York County, we need to slow it down! I see at least 10 traffic violations daily, from passing up a stop sign and red lights, tailgating, illegal u-turns and where are the police? Who is enforcing the law? Why are they sitting on the backroads ticketing the good ole boys who know those roads like the back of their hand instead of pulling people over on the more traveled roads for violations?

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Over the weekend, a physically disabled co-worker of mine, and her service dog were attacked by two pitbulls that were deemed by police to be improperly restrained.

We all know the bad reputation that is given to pitbulls; but I want to go on record as saying that
pitbulls are not responsible for their actions -- it's their OWNERS! Poor or viscious training/restraint of those two dogs are responsible for the physical AND psychological injuries incurred by this woman AND her heroic service dog. These dogs cannot train/restrain themselves.

My heart goes out to my co-worker, her heroic service dog, and all others who have had, or will have similar experiences in the future.

Sandra Murray
York

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In his Letter to the Editor (“Editorial came too late”, 7/27/07) Michael G. Bevenour criticizes the Record’s editorial faulting Commissioner Steve Chronister for his various positions on eminent domain. Mr. Bevenour also notes his:

1. “Extreme disapproval” of “our local Democratic organization’s choice to approve two people.” (False)

The facts: The Democratic Party of York County did not “approve two people.” We were pleased to have three quality Democrats -- Commissioner Doug Kilgore, Doug Hoke and Ned Grove -- seeking the office of County Commissioner. We supported all three individuals in the primary race in a wide variety of ways. The policy of our county party strictly prohibits endorsement of any individual candidates until after the Primary Election.

The voters have spoken: Democrats Doug Hoke and Ned Grove won the Primary and, in doing so, now have the Democratic Party of York County’s full support in their preparation for the General Election in the fall.

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Obama says that he would enter into personal talks with the leaders of countries which we view as enemies, without preconditions. Hillary, and just about everybody else, would not take the risk of being used in that way for possible propaganda purposes by those enemies.

This is just more evidence of how our country has handcuffed itself into impotence. Democrats can't talk to Republicans and Republicans won't talk to Democrats - because they are "enemies". In the meantime, we little citizen people can't get any solutions from our governments for our problems because the "enemies" won't talk, won't compromise, won't negotiate, won't work together for solutions, however imperfect.

I just received the Dallastown Schools newsletter. In it they indicate that the budget expenses are $78,381,708. When divided by the number of students, 5,879 it calculates to $13,331 per student. I went to the Penn State website. Tuition and fees at State College are $6,400 per semester or $12,800 per year. How about that. When is enough enough?

John Russell
Springfield Township

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I wanted to take this opportunity to say thanks and tell all in our West York Borough what a great time I had at the second Clean Sweep event. This event was sponsored by Concerned Citizens for West York in order to beautify our community.

This event was a hit and was very appreciated by the residents who live in the neighborhoods. What a difference a little community good will can make in a struggling neighborhood. It was due to all the hard work by each and every volunteer and resident in the neighborhood and from surrounding neighborhoods that the job of cleaning up and painting curbs was a success.

Shame on whomever took our lawn ornaments out of our yard (July 26). Our "Jack and Jill" have been fishing out of our pond for years. We will not be able to replace them. We feel sick that someone would come right into our yard and take them. Stealing will come back on you someday.

Laurie Kenworthy
Dover

Poor George, he can't help it...He was born with a Republican playbook in his mouth. With apologies to the late Texas Gov. Ann Richards, that pretty well sums up George Trout’s rant in the July 22 York Sunday News.

Mr. Trout accuses patriotic Americans whose views differ with his of being “totally uninformed” and “indifferent” to the threat of the “Islamo-fascists” – a Bush Administration term coined to link those who don’t buy their lies with the failed efforts to appease Hitler in the 1930s.

Indifference, according to Random House Dictionary, is defined as “apathy, without interest, not caring about suffering of others.” You know, like dropping bombs on innocent women and children, torturing people in defiance of a “quaint document” like the Geneva Conventions, denying health care to poor children and not caring that young Americans are repeatedly sent into harm’s way while the rest of us are advised to go shopping.

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My wife and I went to see "Sicko" recently and I found myself saddened but not surprised by the relatively poor care received in the U.S. as compared to other developed countries with universal health care. I was treated for pneumonia in Denmark and can personally attest to the benefits of a government run tax funded system. What distressed me most was the fact that we were the only ones in the theatre. Shouldn't adequate health care be a "right" in our country as it is in all other developed countries? As a health care professional I see people who are shocked by their minimal health coverage daily. $5000 deductibles, 50% copays and a multitude of exclusions are typical of medical coverages in this area. The corporate healthcare system uses competition to reduce "benefit utilization" as opposed to improving services. It is badly broken.

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