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U.S. Rep. Mike Rulli, R, Salem: 31 consecutive days of paid vacation. 0 town hall meetings. — Canfield Compared to most nations, Americans enjoy a free and robust right to express their opinions, reflecting all facets of our political landscape. Through the will and courage of our nation’s founders and our ancestors, we live in the greatest country on the planet. Take some time to reflect on our blessings, and make a commitment to bringing life to the words “one nation, under God, with freedom and justice for all.” — Poland Excellent article from the guest opinion writer ...

We need to elect better people to office

DEAR EDITOR: With the Nov. 4 election approaching, and the mid-terms coming next year, I hope the voters will choose the most qualified candidate. One who will work for all of us. Does the mayor of Youngstown deserve another term? He talks about continuing the good work he’s done, he cheerleads his own talking points, but there’s no substance. The Realty Tower was destroyed, and he acts as if it had not existed, despite its historical significance. Talk to any business owner downtown who will say he is tone deaf and has blocked progress, not facilitated it. No, he doesn’t ...

Down side of Success Sequence Curriculum

DEAR EDITOR: Let me start by saying that I have met and like state Sen. Al Cutrona. He seems to listen to both sides of an issue (somewhat rare for a Republican) and does good things for his constituents. But I see some obvious problems with his recent bill, Success Sequence Curriculum. As a retired teacher who worked in a high school for 35 years, I know I would be uncomfortable with this subject matter. While I agree with Cutrona’s ideas and think he means well, I’m not sure all parents would agree. Who would be tasked with this assignment? Some young PE coach, I suppose. ...

Social media and the developing mind

DEAR EDITOR: Social media has grown to become a huge aspect in the lives of many across the globe. According to the National Library of Medicine, social media use by youth is nearly universal. Up to 95% of youth ages 13–17 report using a social media platform, with more than a third saying they use social media “almost constantly.” (Office of the Surgeon General, 2023) Young people have become the main consumers of social media, which makes them most susceptible to the problems that arise from it. Social media increases risks of depression, anxiety, sleep problems and low ...

Speak up about changes in the church

DEAR EDITOR: Times are changing, some for the good and some not. Locally, we have elections and other issues that affect many in our city. I want to address one particular concern: the reduction of events at our city churches. It starts small, with collaborations, then proceeds to the reduction of masses. I understand the shortage of priests, but eventually, this can lead to the cutting of events that specific churches have traditionally hosted. Bit by bit, as these offerings are taken away and redirected to a main city church, smaller churches begin to lose their identity. When ...

Vote yes on the Mahoning senior levy

DEAR EDITOR: I’m asking Mahoning County voters to support the renewal of the Senior Levy. This is a renewal at the current rate, not an increase. The last time the Senior Levy was on the ballot, it passed with over 70% approval and with good reason. More than 95 percent of the funds are used for direct services to older adults, many of whom live alone. The services include home-delivered meals, personal care, housekeeping and help with chores. There are thousands of seniors over age 60 in Mahoning County who are just above Medicaid income guidelines. Many have no local family ...