Corporate welfare

The July 8 editorial asking what (Ted) Strickland and (John) Kasich's plans are was excellent. This is indeed a time for nonpartisan solutions to Ohio's problems at all levels. The editorial points out that tax exemptions and credits that have been awarded to special interests and industries cost everyone else. I've been waiting for someone to point this out. If SunCoke pays two-thirds of the going water rate, who is making up the rest? How does the city that can't pave its streets or maintain a swimming pool give breaks to businesses? ... If they can't come up with a business model that succeeds without corporate welfare, who needs them? I see no reason to further subject this area to the environmental and infrastructure degradation that takes place without something in return.

I saw in the July 7 Middletown Journal that the City Council has no money. ... It seems to me like the banks that have these mortgages against these places that are going into foreclosure should be held accountable. The only person who made any sense was the vice mayor.

I would like to say how much I enjoyed the Fourth of July parade in Middletown. I thought the float made by the American Legion was wonderful. The float by Grace Baptist Church was nice. I wish we had more floats. Maybe more people will get interested by next year and get some more bands. It was a good parade. ...

To the family who rode their horses in the Fourth of July parade: Thanks for leaving their calling card. You know what I mean. ... You could have shown better respect for the neighborhood and for the people who use the sidewalk.

Since the Cincinnati Reds are on a roll, it is time for Mr. (Bob) Castellini and Mr. (Walt) Jocketty to have a meeting with the players and say: "Since we are playing sharp, we have to be sharp. To be sharp, we have to look sharp. After the All-Star break, no more long hair and facial hair."

To the city of Middletown: I called in and reported that a street light was out on Lafayette Avenue, across from Tri-Stone Church. The lady who took the call was very nice. She thanked me and told me she was putting the order in. It has been well over two months and the street light still isn't fixed. Can someone please tell me why?