Is being poor some kind of stereotype?
To the Editor:
In the Java Talk meeting three weeks back, it was said that people here are very poor and that it was a fine line to talk about cleaning up their areas because people have a right to live the way they want. The really fine line here is in the making of such a stereotypical comment. I didn't realize that being poor meant that one lived in "those types" (my words) of conditions. Instead of considering attitudes among people, time might be better spent considering one's own attitude.
I asked a city official what, in their estimation, breeds crime. I was told that at present, it was heat. Drugs and alcohol were mentioned, as was opportunity. Crimes of opportunity take place when items are left unsecured and in plain sight. What types of places are targeted? If you guessed the "nice" ones, you would be correct. Do "clutter" and "all the junk" make the list? No.
It was also reported that the city does as much local business as it possibly can. Really? Would the city care to make public its local purchase orders reflecting the accuracy of that statement? With all the local buying it does, it could be a real inspiration to local businesses and the community. Another inspiration would be city workers out cleaning up the city. Or does that chore belong to the business and home owners within the city limits who send the city letters demanding action?
Cathy Dressel
Goldendale
Hidden service needs to be recognized
To the Editor:
I want to acknowledge one of our private citizens, Joyce McKay. She is the owner of Upscale Resale. This lady has really inspired me over the years. If someone comes in her store in need of something, whether they have money or not, if they or their family are in need, she makes sure they have everything she can help them with. This is the kind of person we have in this community, and they often go unrecognized. If you are out and about our town, just stop by and say hello to this lady. We need more people like her.
Delbert Brown
Goldendale
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