— I can’t believe the businesses that I go into that are not handicap accessible. I am in a power chair and it is very hard to get into some of the businesses in Johnstown.

Have you ever tried to open a heavy entrance door while in a power chair? You end up getting stuck in the doorway, pushed into something, or just not able to get in at all.

I spoke to a superintendent at one of these businesses and the reply I got was that “we have had several complaints about that, and I spoke to someone about it. I will speak to the maintenance man about it.”

She then walked away.

No resolution is in sight.

I thought Johnstown was rebuilding. Well don’t you think the businesses should include rebuilding for the handicapped, too?

Please help us to get into your business easier.

Jeanne Allison-Rodgers

Johnstown



Kids book festival again huge success

Congratulations to the volunteers, funders, performers and authors who made the Children’s Book Festival of Johnstown a huge success. The event took place  March 19-21 at the BottleWorks Ethnic Arts Center in Cambria City.

Designed to spark a love for reading, the festival attracted 533 parents, grandparents and children from Cambria and Somerset counties. It’s the second year for this free event. Based on attendance, I am certain it will return in 2011.

The festival featured nationally known children’s author Katherine Ayres, storyteller Jan Kinney, an energetic performance of Dr. Seuss’ “Oh the Places You Will Go” by Stage Right of Greensburg, as well as other artists and performers.

Kids participated in a variety of craft activities, and each went home with a  new book.

In addition to those who visited the festival, 600 children from area schools competed in a bookmark-design contest, with winning entries submitted by Richland and Windber Area school districts.

The event was organized and carried out by more than 50 volunteers. Members of the Richland Rotary Club were especially helpful in transporting books, manning activity stations and cleaning up.

I applaud the generosity of Book Festival donors, who clearly understand the importance of reading and helping students develop the literacy skills needed to become successful, engaged members of our community. Those sponsors include Atlantic Broadband, Highmark, Laurel Auto Group, Pennsylvania Council for the Arts and The Tribune-Democrat.

Leah Spangler

Executive director, The Learning Lamp

Richland Township



As small businessman, Burns ready to lead

We need Tim Burns as our 12th district congressman.

Several months ago, I met with Burns at a local fundraiser. We discussed being a young entrepreneur in our country and the value of protecting the small-business sector, which truly remains the foundation of the American economy.

As a former elected official and a young professional, it’s my privilege to have an opportunity to vote for a true public servant and a small businessman such as Burns.

We need to elect a candidate who prides himself on fiscal responsibility and, most importantly, common sense decisions.

Each day, legislation is passed that compromises the future of this country. We need a candidate to keep us informed, and not shielded from the political games in Washington, D.C.

Voters in the 12th Congressional District, “change” needs to start with us. Cast your vote for Tim Burns, a candidate with private sector business sense, a solid reputation, and a true desire to lead our district.

Tyler Trimbath

Portage