Military approach wrong for politics
Congratulations to U.S. Rep Steve Stivers, R-Upper Arlington, on his promotion to brigadier general of the Ohio National Guard, as reported in the Feb. 11 Dispatch. Stivers is quoted as saying that serving in the military “adds value to my congressional job.”
Of concern, however, is his militaristic view of our country’s democratic and electoral process. The Feb. 9 Dispatch reported that Stivers announced that U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Niles, is an “initial offensive target” of the 2018 election cycle. The aggressive characterization of a fellow U.S. representative as an enemy is disturbing. Stivers noted of Ryan and other early targets: “Some will move our way. If Tim does his job, he can move his district off the target list.”
We thought that an elected official’s job was to represent his constituents in Congress. As Ryan has held the 13th District’s seat since 2003, it would appear that he has done his job very well. Stivers’ statements sound like bullying. This attitude might be valued in the military, but has no place in our electoral process or in the legislature at any level.
Mark and Amy Predieri Sunbury plan does not include all of Franklinton (Belle Street to I-70/Rt. 315 and W. Broad Street to Rich Street and beyond) then it becomes a huge missed quality of life opportunity for the city.
The minor attempt at creating “green space,” which proceeds west from COSI and then quickly stops because of a multistoried building, or even the elevated twin railroad tracks, is unfortunate.
Can you just envision a grassy-park mallway that rolls out from COSI all the way to I-70/Rt. 315, between W. State Street and Rush Alley (which could be connected to Culbertson proceeding west)? This would create a magnificent statement and tie the neighborhood pockets together through one unifying park.
With the Columbus skyline as the backdrop and always in view, this mall could be home to fountains and the significant public art statement Columbus has been yearning for. This is something which, because of dense development, cannot be accomplished on the east side of river.
This is all about a singular unifying visual identity for Franklinton and a warm thought about my native Columbus.
Lou Varga Lancaster