Readers’ Column for the week of August 25

You may call the Owego Pennysaver Readers’ Column at (607) 687-2378 24-hours a day, or e-mail comments to readerscolumn@stny.rr.com. We reserve the right to revise or reject any message. 

I don’t get the Legion Act. Why couldn’t the Legion just change its membership rules to say any veteran can join? The declaration of being at war is going to be used for other purposes, not all good.

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Attention residents of Tioga County. Are you tired of paying 3 percent sales tax on your home heating fuels? Tioga is one of 16 counties that tax us. The rates range from 1 1/2 percent to 4 3/4 percent, and that’s on coal/fuel oil/firewood and other biomass fuels (wood pellets). I think it’s time for our so-called leaders of the county to figure out a way to do with a little less so the residents can keep their money! No matter if you own or rent, one way or another you’re being TAXED. To our so-called leaders, instead of defending this tax, spend your time to come up with a solution to dissolve this tax (are we not TAXED enough). Maybe if they hear from enough of us they could come up with a solution! I would love to read or hear any response to this matter. 

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I was so disappointed to learn of the Village of Newark Valley’s prohibition on camping on your own property. We have an upcoming reunion and planned on having a few of the relatives bunk in our tent camper, as we are short on bedrooms. With no motels nearby, this seemed to be a good plan. Maybe we should ignore the rule and just do it. The fine would likely be less than a motel anyway, if we were to go that route.

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Tioga County residents BEWARE! The Libertarian Party has gained ballot access and they are running at least three candidates in the Nov. 5 election. Lower taxes, increased government accountability, respect for the Constitution, and less intrusion into our personal lives. NO THANKS! Stop these Libertarian extremists NOW, or the special privileges and tax dollar gravy train could end for us good ole’ boys.

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Last week a reader questioned, “Are you really willing to kill someone because they want to steal your television.” According to New York State law, there are two justifiable reasons to kill someone: If you are in danger of being seriously injured or killed by that person, or if you are in your own home and are trying to stop a burglary (or arson) in progress. Definition of burglary: Entry into a building illegally with intent to commit a crime, especially theft. You can’t kill someone because they “want” to steal your TV, though.

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“Our efforts to ‘fix’ the food system as it is will be futile — buying organic, pressuring food companies through what we buy individually, or making healthier individual choices to avoid various toxic environmental chemicals will never bring about real change. If using the existing framework of the current system to effect change is not possible, the only other option is to work together and demand it through direct action protests, large-scale boycotts, and rebuilding our communities. And we must do so while also figuring out how to restructure our day-to-day lives to include growing, producing, distributing, cooking, and consuming our foods, as well as feeding and interacting with our families and communities. We must begin to act as if our lives depend on it.” Kristin Lawless, author of “Formerly Known as Food: How the Industrial Food System is Changing Our Minds, Bodies and Culture.”

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Do we have any codes concerning sidewalks and if so, who is supposed to enforce them? When I walk in the village there are many sidewalks that are not safe. Weeds have been allowed to grow across the sidewalks in the spaces between the cement blocks and have become a trip hazard. Weeds and other plants in overgrown areas stretch across the sidewalk, causing you to walk on the curb no matter what the weather is. Lawns are growing out onto the sidewalks so they are now becoming very narrow. I know that not all of these homes are owned by elderly or disabled, nor are they all rentals. Also, businesses allow trees and weeds to grow up the side of their buildings so Owego is starting to look like a deserted village. No wonder so many storefronts are empty. Where is the small town pride that once gave us the Best Small Town award? 

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Clark Hepworth writes a very thoughtful letter to the editor about renaming the post office. Having lived here myself for 59 years, I must agree with him that what is being proposed is an overdo of the Lockwood honors. In fact, I would vote to keep the Post Office name just what it is, The Owego Post Office. As to Helen Dean King, I’m not sure she rises to a level that should be honored by the town or village. 

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I would like to suggest some of our youth target a career in the concrete, mason, chimney field as we in Owego apparently have a shortage. I am a firm believer in supporting the local workforce but have been unsuccessful in finding a contractor who will return your calls or come out and give you an estimate when they say they will. I have gotten multiple recommendations from friends on whom to contact, but they either don’t return your call or say they will get a hold of you in the next few days to set up an appointment and never follow thru. I am looking for a relatively easy chimney repair including re-pointing, and cap installation with some type of birdcage. If you are a reliable contractor, send me an email to Helplocal55@gmail.com.

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I want to thank the Tioga County Highway Department for a great job, and to the man that cut weeds and brush back along Michigan Hollow Road in Spencer. Now people can see pulling out of the driveways and around curves. What a GREAT JOB. 

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Food pantries are in the community because there is a need. They operate to equally distribute food to those at risk of going hungry without food. By volunteering, you are offering to provide a service without seeking anything in return or tangible. I’ve seen volunteers get first dibs on food selection on a regular basis. If you are awarded an opportunity to share that food in a somewhat unethical fashion, state and federal laws prevent food banks and partnerships from discriminating or showing special favor to any group of people. If this practice is systematic I do believe it should be reported. 

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In reference to last week’s comment about the installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, follow the installation instructions that come with the detector. The density of carbon monoxide (1.14 kilograms per cubic meter) is less than the density of air (1.225 kilograms per cubic meter). Carbon dioxide will therefore rise in a room and collect near the ceiling. The detector should therefore be installed near the ceiling. 

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Have you seen the Candor area after all the trees were ripped up after that wicked windstorm? And you republicans are still in denial about climate change? I bet you’ll change your mind if a tree falls on your house. 

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I would like to thank my friend, Rich Watkins. He was a really big help to me when I was going through a hard time last month. Now I’m back to working again and I feel so much better. I would like him to contact me. Rich, if you are reading this, please contact me at 687-5854. I’ll be glad to hear from you.

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I wonder if there is any organization or nursing home that would take old magazines. I hate to put them in recycling and I do have a bunch of Preventions. If you know of anyplace or anyone please call me at 625-3564.

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Well Don my friend, another year has come and gone. I think about you all the time. I’m so happy that I had a chance for us to be friends. Over 50 years, can you imagine that? Well Labor Day is on its way; it will be here in a couple weeks. I made another one, course I don’t know why. I hope I see a couple more. I just want you to know I think about you a lot. 

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I agree about the naming of the post office. There are plenty of Owego natives who would deserve it more than Belva Lockwood. I miss the historical sign that used to be in front of that building praising the Ely’s for establishing the girls’ school. 

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It’s sad to see our local history hijacked for commercial gain. I agree, and think the letter to the editor last week was spot on as was the call in about this Belva Lockwood hype. Let’s hope Schumer will reconsider.

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I would like to say thank you to the guy who did the mowing on Mount Pleasant that works for the town of Nichols. He did a good job and we can now see around the corner better. I just wanted him to know we appreciated it very, very much.

National Political Viewpoints

Trump 4 A 3rd! ROAR!

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I had to run quick to CVS for some Ben Gay. Too many lies coming out of the white house within a 24 hour period, with the reporters asking questions and Mr. Trump changing his answers too many times. I was getting whiplash.

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Politicians have lied since the beginning of time. Donald Trump is good, Bill Clinton is better, and Hillary Clinton is the all time winner. Whether it’s “Read my lips, no new taxes,” ” I never had sex with that woman, Miss Lewinsky,” “We encountered sniper fire when we landed,” or “You can keep your doctor,” all politician’s lie. It’s just what they do. As my mom would always tell me, stop complaining, put on your big boy (or girl) pants and move on. Life’s to short to worry about things you can’t control.

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Look at the instances of mass shootings. Ignore the mainstream hype and look with logic! All of them have happened in essentially gun free areas – schools, shopping areas, etc. Proves two things: 1. These shooters are cowards and 2. They know where most likely there won’t be guns to oppose them. If more people were armed, wouldn’t this be at least a partial solution?

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There is no indication of a recession – that is current mantra of the Trump administration; yet they are considering ways to boost the economy. One of the proposals that are high on the list is to reduce payroll tax. This may sit well with the voting public because they will get a small raise in take home pay until they understand the other side of the coin. Let’s have a small lesson here. What constitutes payroll taxes? Do you know? The required payroll taxes that an employee is required to pay are four: Federal Income Tax, State Income Tax, Social Security, and Medicare. If they reduce the Federal Income Tax withheld you will have to make up the difference when you file your income taxes – that amount is fixed. The feds cannot reduce the state tax withheld, but if they did, the result would be the same. That leaves Social Security and Medicare, which the conservatives constantly complain is underfunded and will soon run out of money. By reducing the payroll deductions that will stress these programs even more, creating even more reasons to limit or eliminate benefits. Beware of a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

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The Democrats have interfered and screwed up Trump’s first term so badly, I think it is only fair, after he is reelected, he be given a third term to make up for the Democrats messing around! ROAR!

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Trump wants to buy an Island from Greenland. Who in the hell does he think he is? We have the largest deficit is the history of our country and he wants to buy an Island from another country. By the way, they don’t want to sell it. He surely plans on bankrupting our country, just like he did with most of his businesses. I’m sure he will let his wealthy donors rape all the natural resources from the Island and pay no taxes. This man needs to be removed from office now!

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The squad, especially Rashida Tlaib, hate Israel and Jewish people. I hear this over and over, but why? What did Congresswoman Tlaib say that convinced Mr. Trump that she hates Israel and Jewish people. I searched the Internet for twitter feeds and oral statements and can only come up with her disagreement with Netanyahu policies and her position against the anti BDS legislation introduced into the U.S. Senate. She and the other squad members have never disparaged the Jewish people. Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) is a Palestinian-led movement for freedom, justice and equality. BDS upholds the simple principle that Palestinians are entitled to the same rights as the rest of humanity. Inspired by the South African anti-apartheid movement, the BDS call urges action to pressure Israel to comply with international law. In February of this year, Marco Rubio and others introduced Anti-BDS legislation into the U.S. Senate that says that state governments can refuse to do business with companies that boycott Israel. The Congresswoman’s disagreement with this legislation is what prompted Mr. Trump’s impression that she and the other members of the squad hate Israel and Jewish people. His accusations are a true example of gas lighting to the nth degree.  

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So much for fiscal responsibility, what core values are left now? What will be stripped away from us next? He’s not one of us.

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Bernie Sanders goes into a bar and at the top of his lungs shouts, “Free drinks for everyone.” Then, in a lower voice, asks, “Who’s paying for it?” Typical Socialist Democrat. Free everything for everyone, no idea how to pay for the promises. Stupidity on display.

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Congresswomen Tlaib and Omar, of the socialist four, had an agenda going over to Palestine and Israel to spew more of their hatred of Jews. When Israel said they were not welcome to their country for all the hatred they have been spewing over the years, Tlaib then said this was her only opportunity to see her 95 year old grandmother and that she would not cause any trouble. So Israel said okay, we will let you in. Tlaib refused to go then because she felt that they were dictating what she could only do. They had the opportunity to go a couple of weeks ago with a group of other congressmen and decided not to go. I hope these four get voted out because they have done nothing to help bring the country together. In fact they are the ones pulling the country apart. 

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To the person who is so disgusted and vilifies President Trump by seeing a picture of Jeffery Epstein as an invited guest at Mar-a-Lago some 22 years ago. Perhaps our disgust can work both ways since the picture of Bill Clinton has been retrieved from Epstein’s island home showing a provocative pose of Bill wearing “look alike Monica Lewinski Blue Dress”. Add the fact that there are 26 logged flights of Bill Clinton on Epstein’s private Jet as recently as 2003, at which time the endowed Clinton Foundation started underwriting Bill’s travel, thanks to the funds Hillary was raising at the time via her Department of State gig. Note that the Epstein flights were without benefit of Secret Service agents, which Clinton still receives. As recently as 2010, Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s procurer of young girls, had an assigned ringside “aisle seat” at Chelsea Clinton’s wedding in 2010. What is disgusting is the hypocrisy of Democrats who spout off by throwing stones in glass houses. 

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I have to say I can’t figure out why anyone listens to Donald Trump. The man is a moron. I know third graders that would make more sense than he does. Wise up people, honest to Pete!

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A Trump rally shows real America First spirit. It is electrifying and he is the best speaker you will ever hear. Biden, Warren and Harris crowds number a paltry few hundred, if that. Trump crowds number tens of thousands with thousands standing outside. Trump supporters are average happy people who are positively motivated, just like the demonstrators in Hong Kong that wave American flags and sing our anthem. The democrat socialists look like refugees from a Banana Republic. We have peace and prosperity under President Trump and the democrats cannot handle that. They are losers who cannot accept defeat and act like spoiled brats who will be beat like a bad drum in the 2020 elections. Go Trump!

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I just read with interest in this column, it used to be my favorite thing to do, and I find it most amusing that someone has said in the political part that President Trump has lied 12,000 and ex number of times. I’m glad they have time to keep track of that and I think people are absolutely ignorant to think that our President Trump that was elected in has time to give us all the current, private information on how they’re running the country. Are they really that stupid to think we have to know every rule of how everything that we shouldn’t know is going to be printed out there and how they assume he’s playing golf when there’s an emergency and something terrible happening that he doesn’t report on? What do they think Obama did when he flew to Hawaii and spent all that money all of the time? People are really watching their neighbors all the time and are assuming and assuming. It gets a little boring. 

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You people who voted for Trump who constantly defend him over and over again for his ridiculous statements and actions kind of remind me of a parent. Their little Johnny goes and breaks the next-door neighbor’s window and they’ve got it on tape and the parents will still be in denial. My Johnny will never do that! Then you show them the picture of him and the parents will say, it kind of looks like Johnny but it’s not him. Get with it people, Trump is a moron! You people made a mistake voting for him, we all make mistakes but at least admit you made one.

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Today I saw on the news that poor women will be denied access to healthcare and other procedures. Guess who they say is pushing for all this? The one and only, Mr. Holy, the evangelical Mike Pence. The evangelicals are not to be trusted. Why would they do harm to poor women? I hope that women fill all the emergency rooms with their health problems. Maybe things will change, but not until Pence and Trump are out. Men really should mind their own business.

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This is about Chris Cuomo’s meltdown on CNN. If I acted like that on my job I’d be given the boot for sure. Why should it be any different for Mr. Cuomo? 

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The New York Times is a joke. They do not report the news but they editorialize on everything. They hate President Trump and will do anything to hurt him. Hopefully they will implode and join other fake news on the garbage pile of history.

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Why is this administration against the poor? God is not happy with them. I can’t even think of a name for Steven Miller and Trump and their continual lying. Every day is a day full of problems. There are never good days with Trump. 

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I wish Trump would shut his mouth already. He should be evaluated. He blames everyone else just like a child does. He should stay off of the TV and he should stay off of twitter and this country would be a much better place. Donald, don’t you know that loose lips sink ships? No Donald, you did not win against Isis like you are claiming. Also, Jews do like the democrats. Stop the dumb rhetoric already and, oh yes, all the lying also.

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If the hatred displayed every week in this column is an indication of attitudes across the country, then America deserves to fail. Before you republicans call democrats and other like-minded Americans names, just remember your party’s mantra from years ago, “If you put up a fence post for office I’ll vote for him, her never.”

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Thank God Trump ran on the republican ticket. He would destroy the Democratic Party. Guess what’s going to happen to the Republican Party? Guess?

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Now I have heard it all and I am furious, and I pray to God every person in this United States has a feeling about the man upstairs. When Trump got on national television yesterday and said, “I am the chosen one,” who does he think he is? Some idiots put him in there to show his movie skills and yet we have to pay for it! Will somebody please wake up and put him alongside the curb. It is I, me, mine not ours, us and we. Put him on that little plane he wants to own all by himself, and God knows where that is.

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The democrats and the media cannot bring Trump down. They went after him on Russia, went after him on racism, now they’re going after him on a recession, which isn’t going to happen. Me, myself, I’m pushing for the next R, which is going to be reelection; you watch it happen. It’s going to be a landslide. I cannot wait! 

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A good guy with a gun just stopped what would no doubt have become a mass shooting in Coweta County, Ga. Haven’t heard about it on the lame stream media? Gee, I wonder why? Maybe because it doesn’t fit the narrative they want us to swallow? Don’t believe me, Google it yourself.