Auburn and Cayuga County speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of May. 13, 2022
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Citizen.
As a grandparent and taxpayer who has attended numerous Auburn school board meetings in the last year, I have listened to the board repeatedly discuss diversity, equity and inclusion. From the creation of a new administrative position (approved by the board in March) for the director of diversity, equity and inclusion (starting salary of $110,000) to the countless hours the board has devoted to modifying the curriculum for “traditionally marginalized groups,” they talk a good game about the importance of making everyone feel welcome and included. Yet it is obvious to anyone who has been paying attention that those in power do not want certain members of the community to have a seat at what they consider their table.
When board member Joe Sheppard abruptly resigned in October 2021, a motion was made to fill the vacant seat by offering it to the next highest vote-getters of the previous election. Keep in mind this appointment would have been only for a few months until this May. However, because the next top three vote-getters, including Rachel Czyz, were deemed to be “conservatives,” the board tabled the resolution. They voted in January to not put any of the three in that seat for just that short period of time, despite each having received close to 1,000 votes by the community! At that same meeting, the board president even floated the idea to decrease the total number of seats from nine to seven or even five in the future. Why? I think the objective of having fewer seats is obvious. The fewer seats, the less room for opposing viewpoints.
A school board should be apolitical. Yet during this year's campaign NYSUT, a known Democrat stronghold, (coincidentally the employer of the current board president) is sponsoring ads on social media backing certain candidates and local politicians, including an Auburn city councilor. This city councilor organized a "Meet the Candidates" event but excluded one person running ... Rachel Czyz.
A school board should represent our entire community and should welcome diverse voices. I am voting for Rachel Czyz because we need a different viewpoint at their table. It is in fact our table ... the community. It should reflect the voices of parents who are not in this for ulterior or political motives. Parents who simply want what is best for our children.
Barbara Stotler
Fleming
Whoa! Thank goodness The Citizen published Reverend Blom’s letter the same day as Mr. Bertonica's. But to address Mr. Bertonica’s brief but pathetic letter, which says volumes about his perception that it’s the woman’s fault for an unwanted pregnancy. Never mind the fact if she was a victim of rape! It’s the woman’s role to prevent a pregnancy by using birth control. It’s the woman’s responsibility. So Mr. Bertonica, what is your responsibility? What is a man’s responsibility? You place everything on the woman. But when no means no, some men don’t want to hear that. They become deaf by design and denial follows when confronted. Some men have a sense of entitlement over “their women” but do not truly love them. After all, if they loved their woman, they would have respect for their woman, not authority.
See, Mr. Bertonica, it takes communication and a clear understanding where a romp may change the course of a woman’s body. It takes two to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
Now, if you were a “victim” and your fathered a child unwittingly, man up! You had a major part in it. Blaming the mother says a lot about the father. Moreover, women endure a great deal of physical and emotional pain should they choose to have an abortion. And that decision is up to the woman and who she decides to include to help make the best decision. I would not want my wife, my nieces to have to live with a reminder of an act of rape or incest if they don’t want to. However, that is a private family discussion with their primary care physician.
So for those who credo is, as your last sentence was, Mr. Bertonica, keep "yours" in zipped up, buttoned up. Be a good man and respect women. Until then, donate to the Boys and Girls Club for all those who don’t have to loving families. Give to Catholic Charities or Christian Alliance for Orphans. The foster care system is overwhelmed and underfunded here in the US.
My family disagrees on a lot of recent issues and abortion is a hot button topic. But moreover, it is a personal, private right of the women in my family to have a safe abortion if they need to have one. And the young men in my family, I am extremely proud of their respect for women as equal partners.
R.L. Searles
Sennett
Whoa! Thank goodness The Citizen published Reverend Blom’s letter the same day as Mr. Bertonica's. But to address Mr. Bertonica’s brief but pathetic letter, which says volumes about his perception that it’s the woman’s fault for an unwanted pregnancy. Never mind the fact if she was a victim of rape! It’s the woman’s role to prevent a pregnancy by using birth control. It’s the woman’s responsibility. So Mr. Bertonica, what is your responsibility? What is a man’s responsibility? You place everything on the woman. But when no means no, some men don’t want to hear that. They become deaf by design and denial follows when confronted. Some men have a sense of entitlement over “their women” but do not truly love them. After all, if they loved their woman, they would have respect for their woman, not authority.
See, Mr. Bertonica, it takes communication and a clear understanding where a romp may change the course of a woman’s body. It takes two to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
Now, if you were a “victim” and your fathered a child unwittingly, man up! You had a major part in it. Blaming the mother says a lot about the father. Moreover, women endure a great deal of physical and emotional pain should they choose to have an abortion. And that decision is up to the woman and who she decides to include to help make the best decision. I would not want my wife, my nieces to have to live with a reminder of an act of rape or incest if they don’t want to. However, that is a private family discussion with their primary care physician.
So for those who credo is, as your last sentence was, Mr. Bertonica, keep "yours" in zipped up, buttoned up. Be a good man and respect women. Until then, donate to the Boys and Girls Club for all those who don’t have to loving families. Give to Catholic Charities or Christian Alliance for Orphans. The foster care system is overwhelmed and underfunded here in the US.
My family disagrees on a lot of recent issues and abortion is a hot button topic. But moreover, it is a personal, private right of the women in my family to have a safe abortion if they need to have one. And the young men in my family, I am extremely proud of their respect for women as equal partners.
R.L. Searles
Sennett
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month reminds us to pay attention to our health. Experts have shown that stress can have a dramatic impact on us mentally and physically. A variety of factors can relate to stress, and we are familiar with many of them – our jobs, our relationships, our finances. One that might not come to mind immediately is the negative impact of gambling. Problems related to gambling have a close link to stress and anxiety, both for the people gambling and their loved ones.
Over 600,000 New Yorkers have experienced a gambling problem in the past year. The effects can include sleep issues, strain on relationships with loved ones, financial problems and increased alcohol or drug use, all of which can cause stress. People who struggle with problem gambling are also at a higher risk for other mental health problems. Two out of three individuals reported that their mental health suffered because of their gambling.
Not only do people start to be stressed after they have had problems because of gambling, but stress also itself can often lead to gambling. Some people experience distress over life events and circumstances and use gambling to distract or escape from the things that are bothering them. Unfortunately, the negative impact of gambling can compound an already-stressful situation and result in an unhealthy cycle.
Emotional and psychological distress is not exclusive to just the person gambling either – each of those individuals can impact up to ten other people in their lives. A study found that nine out of ten people impacted by someone else’s gambling problems felt emotional distress. Between the people gambling and their close friends and family, six million New Yorkers are affected by problem gambling and may experience mental health issues because of it.
HELP is available for anyone exhibiting warning signs of a gambling problem, such as being absent from activities with friends or loved ones because of gambling; feeling stressed or anxious when not gambling; low work performance due to absence or preoccupation with gambling; or lying to family and friends about how much money and time is spent on gambling. Call the Central Problem Gambling Resource Center at (315) 413-4676 or emails CentralPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org. When you call, you will speak with someone from the PGRC staff, who will listen to and connect you with the resources that best meet your needs.
Elizabeth Toomey
East Syracuse
Elizabeth Toomey is team leader with Central Region Problem Gambling Resource Center.
What is going on that we lost three Auburn school board members this year? Could it possibly be the environment we see in the meetings on a continual basis from the board members of bullying, bulldozing and lack of transparency? A board that has a culture where members are disrespected for not agreeing with the leadership. Why would people stay? We lost one member mid-year and two incumbents that are not running again. Why? Maybe because the current leadership is toxic and we need a change. Let's keep politics off our school board, as politics was clearly displayed at a recent event at Tinkers Guild for meeting the candidates where one candidate, Rachel Czyz, wasn't acknowledged, invited or mentioned by the news media organization that covered the event. So much for diversity and inclusion. No olive branch offered here. Practice what you preach, school board.
Rachel has shown us this past year and a half, attending, showing up at every meeting. (More than I can say for the other candidates). She is not afraid to speak her voice in a respectful, dignified manner. She has called the board out on their unethical procedures (as have other community members and taxpayers) week after week. We have seen a positive change in how they conduct meetings lately and I'm grateful for that. We need more of Rachel's ethical stance and call for transparency on our school board. I know her personally. I know she will always put our children and our community interests first. She will make it her priority.
Cynthia Baney
Fleming
After 34 years in education, I am still passionate about education, especially supporting our Auburn children.
But last year, the Auburn school budget needlessly ended up breaking our financial budgets. After receiving adequate monies from other sources, the district taxpayers were not only hit with a tax increase, but one that went up to the tax cap. We have always supported Auburn budget proposals in order to support out children and grandchildren. This year, I feel it is time for the district to support our strained financial needs.
Given our local economy this year, inflation being the highest in 40 years, and interest rates on the rise, how about this innovative idea: propose a budget with no increase in our taxes for the 2022-23 school year?
Please look out for the Auburn city school taxpayer. It would be a sorely welcomed and needed change for this year!
Stephen Donnelly
Owasco
Although the U.S. Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, Americans have been subjected for decades to many they've encountered throughout their lives who've misused that freedom. However, what is even more troublesome is that those in a position of power have — over the past few decades — increasingly proven themselves to be even more abusive with their choice of words!
To those who don't care to watch Fox news (usually aware of the misinformation that is continually being spread by its bias commentators), it should be of genuine concern to those whose "minds are open" that a large segment of the senior population watches it ... faithfully!
It should be even more troublesome that their favorite commentator is Tucker Carlson, who (as the "awake" generation knows) has been truly undermining America's democracy!
It is because "lies are more often easier to believe than the truth," (especially if said enough times) which Tucker is known to do. Therefore, anyone who can spell “IQ” should take heed to what he is doing! (Even the Russian government-controlled television constantly features Tucker because he often criticizes our democracy and repeatedly compliments Vladimir Putin.)
Therefore, because it sometimes becomes necessary for the clergy to step forward and help make it clear how the teachings of Jesus might apply to this particular freedom, I am speaking up.
The Bible quotes the words of Christ and it is His words which has relevancy to the issue of this freedom that obviously needs further clarity. In the book of Matthew, he says that we should “not judge others.” And, although (sadly) the passage is one of the most misunderstood and misapplied teachings in scripture by believers and non-believers alike, Christ does make it clear that he does not prohibit the civil judgment of the courts upon evil doers! Therefore, it is the evil doers that are not just affecting but are seriously infecting our democracy by using television to do their dirty work.
Now is the time that Americans need to wake up and tell those who are undermining our country to “go back to where they either came from or where they belong!” (There could even be a serious collection of monies to help make that possible and I'd like to offer to do just that!)
The Rev. Joyce H. Smith
Auburn
After 34 years in education, I am still passionate about education, especially supporting our Auburn children.
But last year, the Auburn school budget needlessly ended up breaking our financial budgets. After receiving adequate monies from other sources, the district taxpayers were not only hit with a tax increase, but one that went up to the tax cap. We have always supported Auburn budget proposals in order to support out children and grandchildren. This year, I feel it is time for the district to support our strained financial needs.
Given our local economy this year, inflation being the highest in 40 years, and interest rates on the rise, how about this innovative idea: propose a budget with no increase in our taxes for the 2022-23 school year?
Please look out for the Auburn city school taxpayer. It would be a sorely welcomed and needed change for this year!
Stephen Donnelly
Owasco
It’s strange the way I think of buildings as having feelings. This is especially true of homes, schools and churches. They say “if walls could talk.” I believe they would have a lot to say. The happenings in our buildings create such a history. It brings about laughter, tears, smiles, frowns. I know it’s not the stone, mortar and wood that creates these feelings but instead it is the people who make up the family whether blood related or not. Houses are where newborns bring life and where people leave their lives, and their souls continue to the hereafter. Rooms are remembered as belonging to certain individuals or hold a title such as kitchen, dining room, or parlor. And then there’s the “necessary room” which can be tagged “Grand Central Station” as everyone is “lined up” to use it. Of course, we have moved up and on from the days of a “back house” to indoor plumbing, and going from the joy of one bathroom to now required three bathrooms in any established family home. The strange thing is a house now accommodates less generations living together, memories are different, and “feelings for one’s home” has worn out its welcome.
Arlene P. Ryan
Auburn
As school board elections and budget votes near, it is important to remember how critical schools are to our communities. Opinions abound during the school year yet the voter turnout for these important elections is typically extremely low.
The Skaneateles school district is comprised of two counties with 8,995 population and 3,762 households (Censusreporter.com). With over 80% of the population being of voting age, there is a potential for 7,200 votes. Since 2015 the turnout for the school budget vote and board elections in Skaneateles have been as low as 542 voters and as high as 2,500 (Source: Syracuse.com). The sum for voters going to the ballot boxes over this six-year period is 7,200 and on average less than 17% of the voting population casts a vote. Schools in our communities are our most valuable assets and the election of their governing bodies is critical to maintain their values at the highest level.
Unfortunately, politics have infiltrated our school elections and created significant divides in our communities. Neighbors can no longer have debates about what is best for our children without getting labeled. Propaganda campaigns stymie thoughtful, unemotional discussions that help our society progress. Difference of opinions are good. Stifling critical thought is a danger to us all.
There is often divisiveness and less than savory tactics utilized that are reflective of the current tone of our national elections. There is no place for that in a community election. Unfortunately, with small voter turnout, these tactics can sway the outcome to deliver election results that do not best represent our community. Far too often, the best candidates with the right capabilities are out-politicked for a very important job. If more of our community participated in each election this would be the exception rather than the rule. Facebook rants and keyboard arguments will not help our school, voting in a new board will.
As the May 17 election approaches consider each candidate with an open mind. Have discussions with the candidates rather than listening to other people’s opinions. No hidden agendas — make sure the candidate really wants the job and has the best interest of your child and community in mind. Ask yourself if the person you are voting for is the person you want making decisions that impact up to 12 years of your child’s education and will manage our community’s most valuable asset.
Most importantly, vote!
Joseph Goethe
Skaneateles
It’s strange the way I think of buildings as having feelings. This is especially true of homes, schools and churches. They say “if walls could talk.” I believe they would have a lot to say. The happenings in our buildings create such a history. It brings about laughter, tears, smiles, frowns. I know it’s not the stone, mortar and wood that creates these feelings but instead it is the people who make up the family whether blood related or not. Houses are where newborns bring life and where people leave their lives, and their souls continue to the hereafter. Rooms are remembered as belonging to certain individuals or hold a title such as kitchen, dining room, or parlor. And then there’s the “necessary room” which can be tagged “Grand Central Station” as everyone is “lined up” to use it. Of course, we have moved up and on from the days of a “back house” to indoor plumbing, and going from the joy of one bathroom to now required three bathrooms in any established family home. The strange thing is a house now accommodates less generations living together, memories are different, and “feelings for one’s home” has worn out its welcome.
Arlene P. Ryan
Auburn
I am pro-life.
As a Christian minister and as an American, I believe all people are entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. However, too many people in our country do not have these rights. Many people living on the edge of poverty or in poverty do not have access to these rights. Women trapped in abusive relationships do not have access to these rights. Children living without proper support, food, education do not have access to these rights. People with gender identity not strictly female nor male do not always have access to these rights. People who fall in love with someone from the same sex have not had access to these rights in the past. Non-white people often do not have access to these rights in the same way as white people.
As a minister, I strive to follow the Way of Jesus as taught in the Bible. His two greatest commandments are to love one’s neighbor as you would be loved and to love God, (reflected in God’s creation.) He also commands us to care for the poor, feed the hungry and welcome the stranger.
To determine when a fetus’ life is separate from a woman’s was not something that is taught anywhere in the Bible. In fact, fetuses are not even mentioned in the Bible! But caring for those living with the least is mentioned many times.
Being pro-life, I cannot understand the need for unregulated assault weapons that serve only one purpose, to kill as many people as possible. I cannot understand not supporting universal health care so all people can have a healthy life. I cannot understand spending trillions on military weapons that end life, while complaining about millions being spent to help feed the poor and preserve life.
No one is “pro” abortion. Having an abortion is one of the most difficult decisions a woman can make. But laws do not stop people from having abortions, laws make them even more dangerous. What can help end abortions is affordable child care, universal health care, less spent on military killing machines and more spent on support, nurture, education, the skills for a productive life, more adoption opportunities.
When the words life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness were written, slaves did not have these rights, that came later with a president who understood that some laws need to be universal. The right for a woman to decide what she does with her own body is also one that needs to be universal.
The Rev. Dr. Barb E. Blom
Aurora
The Rev. Dr. Barb E. Blom is minister of United Ministry of Aurora and founder of the Interfaith Center for Action and Healing.
To all the pro-choice women: Having an abortion because you don't want a child is murder. Remember the commandment? Thou shall not kill. If you don't want a child then use birth control or keep your legs closed instead of killing him or her.
John Bertonica
Auburn
