Doing the right thing; vote yes on Issue 5

To the editor:

In 1976, I met a former U.S. representative from Ohio. He and his staff were teaching us high school seniors about the political process. He actually had us doing research on a mining bill that was controversial among his constituents. 

We asked him, Why would you support something that would open you up to criticism from some of your own voters? 

I have never forgotten the nature of his reply: Sometimes you can vote for the popular thing, but there are times when you have to vote yes, even if it costs you, simply because it’s right. 

This May 4th we have a similar decision regarding a yes vote for the 4-H Extension Levy, Issue 5. The easy thing would be to say, “I don’t like taxes so I’m not going to vote for 5;” or, I will believe the rumor that “Ohio State will run to the rescue if I vote no on 5.”

But this isn’t about the easy-popular thing or rumors; it’s about the difficult, but best thing. As sure as I’m writing this editorial I am convinced this is your and my issue to own and we should vote YES/For Issue 5. All of extension including 4-H makes a huge difference in our community-economy and in the lives of our friends and neighbors. So I ask that you look to your own counsel. Make your decision based on that still small voice that guides all blessed free people as they stand in the voting booth.  

Vote for 5 and keep 4-H and extension alive. 

Sincerely,

Steve Dillon 

Dodsonville