- Lawrence Wilson
As I was bringing my Princess home from the Hospital Friday, we passed the Mall and she noted all the vehicles in the Sears Lot.
Was like a bunch of Vultures feasting off the bones of a Giant Retail Store as it writhed in its death throes. Wonder where they were last week, last month and last year?
But than to put our lives in some sort of balance, the Daily Blat in its 19 September 2018, "Our Opinion" column noted "Economy- Recovery leaving many behind".
It quoted an American Community Survey from the U.S. Census Bureau showing nearly 19% of the state, 336,000, people living below the poverty line as of 2017. In order to garner some sympathy tears, it noted that 25.5% of children and 20.9% of women fell into this category.
In my posting of "City Council III" on 19 September, Mr. Leach was quoted for this observation: "We talk about the Seniors and the PD Fee. In a 2016 Survey, the largest group in Vienna below the Poverty level were women 25- 34 and males 6- 11. The fee is designated for the PD and is stated for that purpose. I would leave it at $3.50". Can anyone please explain the correlation between the young women, the small boys and the PD Fee?
More and more, being a Senior in Vienna is comparable to a "Fat Cat" as far as the City Council is concerned. They are spending too much time up at the Senior Center and the Tin Shed next too it. For sure a bunch of money in those bunches. But just how big a percentage are they really in Vienna? Senior Center is only about 35-55 on any given Luncheon. From personal knowledge, I know all of those are not "Fat Cats". And those at the Tin Shed are from all over Hell's Half Acre and all are not likely to be from Vienna?
One Mr. O'Leary, Senior Policy Analyst for the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy was quoted "The census data shows the reality and economic hardships of everyday West Virginians are being ignored as state policy makers claim a West Virginia economic turnaround". I wonder if he was trying to make a point?
But than comes the cheer leader, one Ms. Doyle-Parsons, executive director of the Circles Campaign in the Mid-Ohio Valley to point out "ALL socio-economic classes must work together to truly help West Virginia's economy recover".
That is not going to fly here in Vienna for damn sure. We have a City Council that openly shows its disdain for those not of their Socio- Economic Status. If I live to be a 110, I will not forget listening to Mr. Leach talk and than some of his family talk about how if we could not afford to pay the higher Water/ Sewer Fees, than maybe we should consider...………………………? What was left unsaid, you fill it in? I filled the blank in that we could consider moving? I have no problem with Mr. Leach the Elder. He was very upfront and continues to be honest that the Council is just a Resume Entry for future Political and Economic advancement. He does not give a rat's a** for the people in Vienna other than "you should vote for me" because...………………? With the exception of his son who is trying to be a Politician, I cannot say more on them except it is sad when those of us not so fortunate are looked down upon so easily? As for the two running for whatever, think twice, vote once. And be sure you understand what you will get for your money? Neither will do squat to help you recover in your personal recovery of whatever degree of poverty? The rest of the Council pretty much speak for themselves, some good, not many, not much.
Than the Daily Blat ended its column thusly, "We cannot move ahead, if we refuse to face reality, but rather pat ourselves on the back with one hand for allegedly tossing out politics as usual, while the other hand clings as firmly as ever to the bad old days. Who does that serve"?
It, if I may, will serve those who have smiled at you on your Church Steps after Services, shook your hand and then stuck a knife in your back as you walked down the steps to your car. Just look some more at the crowd up on 29th St every other Thursday evening. They will be the ones who are telling you how they will protect you from yourselves.
And we for damn sure, have NOT thrown out Politics as usual. Tis alive and well. 'nuff said'.