Letters: Resist the ‘flooding the zone’ strategy

Resist the ‘flooding the zone’ strategy

It’s tempting to tune out the shock and awe strategy of Trump’s second administration, but to do so is foolhardy. The American way of life is disappearing.

Thanks to federal cuts to universities and other research agencies, much of the nation’s cutting-edge medical research is screeching to a halt. The impact on patient care will be devastating — and long term (consider that 1/3rd of all cancer medicines currently in use were discovered by academics). To make matters worse, this administration is also actively pushing medical misinformation.

Safe food, clean water and worker safety be damned! The administration’s all-out attack on federal regulations puts corporate profits ahead of the health and well-being of the American people. Popular myths that regulations harm the economy ignore the far-reaching benefits, and cost savings, associated with protecting human and environmental health.

Trump’s trade war is blowing up retirement plans! The U.S. Stock Market is in turmoil, prices are rising, retirement accounts are shrinking and the probability of a U.S. recession are real and growing.

Adding to the madness, Trump threatens to deport American citizens who commit crimes to El Salvador’s brutal prisons! Trump’s acknowledged “errors” in deportations to date, his failure to provide due process, and his record of political vengeance reveals a broader authoritarian bent that threatens all Americans.

Not scared? You should be. But remember this: the Trump administration admits to “flooding the zone” to provoke fear and paralysis. Don’t let them! Stay engaged — practice resistance and fight for justice.

Black will advocate for kids’ mental health

I’m writing to express my unwavering support for Jennifer Black in the upcoming school board election. In my experience as the parent of two teenagers, a member of this community and someone who spends an enormous amount of time with high school kids transitioning to college, I believe Jennifer is an ideal candidate for this position. In a time when our social climate is so divisive, Jen’s listen-first approach has allowed her to establish connections with a wide demographic of people in our community and gain a holistic understanding of where the school district can be improved and how it can provide additional support to our students.

While there are many ways Jen has been active in our schools and community for years such as, a Girl Scout Troop Leader, PTO member, Stay and Play Preschool advisory team member, an academic tutor and even a sixth grade teacher, what speaks most to me is her dedication to challenges surrounding our kids’ mental health struggles. According to the CDC, 30% of girls in high school admit to seriously considering suicide. That’s up 60% from 10 years ago and continues to climb. This terrifying statistic crosses racial, social economical, religious and gender backgrounds. It’s something all of us should be concerned about and a fight we have to actively engage in as parents to keep our kids safe in school and outside of it. Having someone on the school board advocating for our kid’s mental health is critical.

Barlow will defend schools, students, employees

I am one of many who have known Jesse Barlow for years. I was a regular member, and occasional officer in the SCASD PTO as my children passed from Radio Park, through Park Forest Middle, and on to graduating from State High. Jesse’s daughter was friends with my daughter in school.

He was always well informed on day-to-day school operations and supportive of the teachers, and staff. He has been a calm and logical presence in the Borough Council as both a member and president. And he served the community with the State’s Human Relation Commission. This experience makes him a seasoned veteran of many years of public hearings and board meetings. He knows how to operate effectively in the environment of community service.

I trust his abilities to defend our schools, their students and employees, and negotiate the upkeep of our campuses through the difficulties and turbulence that have severely stressed other districts in our area. State College is fortunate to have someone of his intelligence and integrity willing to serve our community. Please join me in electing him as a SCASD school director.

Black will ensure all voices are heard

I’m writing to express my wholehearted support for Jennifer A. Black in the upcoming SCASD school board elections. Jen is a mother, educator, volunteer, leader and friend who is committed to creating meaningful connections and a deeper partnership between the school board and the school community. With years of experience as both an educator and involved parent, I believe she is uniquely qualified to serve as a board member with a genuine focus on advocating for our children.

Jen has a clear understanding of the daily needs and challenges faced by our teachers, staff and students through her educational background and volunteer experience. Her approachable nature, empathetic listening, and commitment to fairness will benefit every member of the district community. Jen is passionate about finding practical solutions that truly help to support our children and move our classrooms forward. As a strong advocate for open communication, Jen has the vision the district needs to make sure every voice is heard and every possibility is considered.

Jen is already actively engaged in helping the school community, attending every school board meeting with a determination and dedication to understanding what matters to our district. She courageously asks tough questions, thoughtfully considers ideas presented by every voice, and thoroughly educates herself on all topics up for discussion. She’s ready to put in the hard work and I know if elected she will serve tirelessly for every individual in our district. Please join me in voting for Jennifer A. Black for SCASD school board.