Letters to the editor -- May 14

Your views

The Olympian • Published May 14, 2008

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Many issues assail us: the war, inflation, social controversies and medical care. As always, because of our free society, there are numerous pros and cons, mostly legitimate and honest.

There is, however, one well from which springs the basis of solutions to our problems, and that is the education of our youths. This is where the strength of our nation lies. A "yes" vote on the North Thurston school levy is an act of patriotism each citizen can contribute toward keeping our country strong.

Don Kasmar, Lacey

Librarians are key to academic success

I enjoyed Kirk Ericson's article in The Olympian about how he likes libraries. I like libraries too. I am sure Ericson was referring to public libraries.

How about school libraries? The North Thurston school district will lose all elementary, middle school and high school librarians if the levy fails on Tuesday!

Where do students go to get a good book to read? The library. Where do they go to find information for their state report or their science fair project? The library. When the class assignment is to read a historical fiction book or a mystery where do they go? You guessed it, the library.

Who help the students locate the information they need, offer suggestions and is a great reference source? The librarians, of course! And at the elementary level, it is only the librarian who tracks the reading abilities of each student and can recognize problems and progress from grade to grade over time.

The effect of schools without librarians would be detrimental to all students and teachers.

So, I encourage you to vote "YES" Tuesday and support the libraries of the North Thurston Public Schools, along with the advance placement classes, foreign language classes, gifted programs, special education, band, choir, orchestra, sports and all other activities that the levy funds.

Karla Stanton, Lacey

Property taxes are not equitable

It is natural to aspire to live in a nice home. People should be encouraged, not discouraged to do so. Everyone should have the opportunity to own a nice home if they are willing to work for it.