Inverted flag signs shouldn’t be across from school

I am a proponent of freedom of speech. I fully believe in the rights granted to us under our U.S. Constitution. For years, I have seen this Middletown homeowner post his/her political positions on the front lawn and I have respected the right to do so whether or not I hold a similar or differing opinion politically.

However, this homeowner resides directly across the street from a grammar school. This week, the political discourse descended into disrespecting the very country that preserves our rights. To display our American flag inverted is not only disrespecting our flag, our country, the veterans who fought to preserve our nation, and the citizens who are proud of this nation despite its political foibles, but this message also influences the formulating young minds.

Our laws do not permit me to remove these inverted flags, but I can speak out to encourage him or her to be cognizant of the lesson of disrespectful this message sends to young children and to remove them willingly.

Joan Liska, Middletown

Selectwoman insulted flag and pledge of allegiance

I have read and heard about Haddam Selectman Melissa Schlag’s inappropriate behavior at a recent selectmen’s meeting. As a former Haddamite, I was dismayed an elected official chose to grind her Trump axe at a town business meeting, and, in the process, insult our flag and allegiance.

She is misguided in her claim it is about democracy. This is not about freedom of speech or other rights. As an official representing the people of Haddam, she occupies her position by virtue of the consent of the citizens, and she owes the town prudent and professional, nonpartisan representation.

If I were still a resident, my question would be: Is there a code of behavior/code of ethics for selectmen/women to which they agree as a condition of taking the job? If there is, does it state someplace there’s no place for partisan displays at public meetings? If so, what are the consequences?

Does she really have the right to bring personal political views to the meetings, potentially bringing discredit on the hamlet — shaming/ tarnishing Haddam’s reputation? I suspect not. Robert L. Parent Jr.,

Allen, Texas

Vote Bhargava for treasurer at primary

Dita Bhargava was raised by a single working parent and persevered through economic hardship to make her way to McMaster University, where she was one of only a handful of women to obtain a degree in electrical and computer engineering. After graduation, Dita pursued a career as a trader and hedge fund portfolio manager. Dita was a managing director who led a large portfolio of clients, including large pension fund managers, and posted superior returns on capital she managed.

Dita has a personal appreciation for the challenges facing Connecticut families today, and knows the value of an earned dollar. As the next treasurer, she will ensure to protect and grow Connecticut’s hard-earned assets, be a leader in corporate governance by encouraging companies to act in a socially responsible way and build on smart, progressive policies like pay equity, student loan forgiveness, financial literacy programs and expanding the children’s college saving program.

Vote for Dita at the Aug. 14 primary.

Rose Aletta, Portland