JaBbA's Hut

Unconcerned in Columbus

Our state is in dire straits by any measure, yet what is the apparent response from all three branches of government? ``What, me worry?''

Ohio's formidable economic woes include job loss and anemic job creation -- our young people leaving for greener pastures while our support of all education and pollution standards (air and water) are among the worst in the nation. And yet our General Assembly and governor find the time to pass legislation to carry concealed guns and discriminate against a class of citizens that make up about 10 percent of our population because of a perceived ``threat to the family.''

They find the will to subsidize other education systems (e-schools, vouchers, private and parochial schools) with less-stringent fiscal or academic accountability than that rightly required for the public school system.

They've also found time to cut funding to libraries, our one and only crowning glory -- and once the envy of 49 states.

While we are hemorrhaging jobs and trying to compete for high-end technology jobs, our state school board finds it appropriate to create a science standard that is based on a narrow religious belief.

It will be curious to see if any biotech companies are interested in locating to the Buckeye State.

Science by popularity contest, or by what ``feels like it's true,'' may get you re-elected, but it may be difficult to promote Ohio as technically savvy and educationally progressive.

I guess state officials aren't worried.

The Ohio Supreme Court four times has ruled the state's system of education funding is unconstitutional.

A fifth visit to the case said to legislators and 1.8 million public school children: ``Never mind -- ignore us.''

Lawmakers find the will and way to quickly pass culture-war legislation while ignoring the real fundamentals of quality living. While they proclaim these as family values, they ignore real values that would strengthen all families, such as adequately and equitably funding public education, quality job creation, universal health care, strong public and cultural institutions, clean air and water and a fair and equitable across-the-board taxation system.

Until any of this occurs, yes, Ohioans should worry.

And vote.

Jodie M. Grasgreen

Akron