Prof blends facts, opinions in his Delaware newsletter

Tom Wolber teaches German literature, culture and language one classroom at a time as an associate professor at Ohio Wesleyan University. But in his community, he shares so much more through his newsletter, Community Matters.

The 20-page, 4-year-old monthly is a blend of community calendar, news roundup and commentary.

It’s the commentary and opinion that some take issue with, especially in the largely conservative community.

To end a story about a tabled Delaware City Council resolution to promote a federal program to ease energy consumption, he wrote about those who left the meeting angry, noting: “In moments like this it becomes clear that Delaware retains many of its parochial roots despite progress being made in key areas.”

Born and raised in Germany, Wolber came to the United States about 40 years ago, and quickly realized, he said, that Germans have a different approach to civics and community involvement.

“The (American) public is largely indifferent, oblivious, busy with their own lives,” he said recently. “And they often don’t wake up until it’s too late.”

“I advocate for the community, for democracy,” he said.

In a story about Planet Oasis, a development proposed for the southeast corner of Routes 36/ 37 and Interstate 71, he asked readers: “Will a proposed entertainment development that promises fun and entertainment, gaming and escapism make America ‘great again’? Will Planet Oasis help its visitors improve their literacy and numeracy and criticalthinking skills?”

Even crime news carries commentary.

On the June 6 shooting death of Gene Puskas by Delaware County deputy sheriffs during a domestic violence run, Wolber wrote “Surely, however, there must be better, non-lethal ways to deal with people with mental-health and/or substance-abuse issues.”

Lee Yoakum, Delaware city spokesman, said he doesn’t always agree with Wolber’s opinion, but he credits him for being involved.

“I wish everyone could be as engaged as Tom is,” he said.

“People in Germany are more active, engaged in public affairs ... I think I inherited that,” said Wolber. 64. He attends most council meetings and is a member of the city’s tree commission and Sustainable Delaware, a group of advocates for environmental issues.

Wolber should be cautious when melding opinion and fact, said Ohio Wesleyan journalism professor Paul Kostyu.

Wolber said he has been called out for accusing local officials who accept large campaign donations as being corrupt, dishonest and for taking bribes.

“I’m very invested in my community and would like to see my community improve,” he said. The newsletter is “a deliberate attempt to give voice to people — and even animals and plants — that are often voiceless that do not have a voice at the table.

“If a tree dies, I may write an obit, because I want to give voice to the marginalized, the sick. I see too many people left behind and stranded and not benefiting from this economy.

Being a professor and publisher/reporter are similar, Wolber said. “Teachers and journalists are both in the knowledge business,”’ he said.

He’s got hundreds on his mailing list. And he distributes about 150 hard copies around campus and in town.

He said he’d prefer to discuss issues than bicker over personalities.

“It is not in my interest to demonize the city or criticize it,” he said. “Some appreciate what I do ... but there also are a handful of people who are less respectful.”