I grew up in many small towns throughout Ohio since my father, who was from Bowling Green worked for Uhlman’s Department stores for most of his life. While I didn’t grow up in this small town, I moved here as an adult and have lived or taught in this community for over forty years. Both my parents, as well as many of my six brothers and sisters and I, graduated from BGSU. My husband Tom and I have raised our son here and have taught at the university or the city schools for nearly our whole careers. We have seen generations of students benefit from wonderful educational opportunities. And we have chosen to retire and live in this town that has nurtured us and our families. Despite the fact that we have no children—or grandchildren—in the school system at this time, we urge all of us to vote YES for the school levy.
We believe this because we believe it is necessary for the good of ALL of our citizens. Why? Because in the past, whatever our diverse political concerns or personal agendas WE, the people of Bowling Green, have continued to promote and protect our small town as volunteers, voting YES on levies and/or donating private funds to keep our town vibrant, to show compassion and caring—and to take care of one another. This is what makes Bowling Green great.
WE, the people of Bowling Green, have supported our public library for the good of us all. And rightly so!
WE have taken care of and supported our senior citizens (I now am one!) Our senior citizen center and programs are outstanding, and we will have a beautiful new up to date building in the works. And rightly so!
WE have supported our beautiful parks with both time and money—the new building in City Park is nearing completion and we have recreation and programs for all. And rightly so!
WE have voted YES in helping Wood Lane, mental health programs , children’s resources, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation services. And rightly so!
WE give back to our community by donating money and support to our hospital, our women’s shelter, our humane society, and other worthy causes. And rightly so!
WE provide art and entertainment for all, with The Black Swamp Arts Festival, holiday parades and celebrations, Art in the Park, our community band. Black Swamp Players. We have donated and built a new (and might I add) air-conditioned fair building for our swine and steers and presenters.
We certainly now cannot deny our responsibility to our children and schools. It is imperative that WE support and provide Bowling Green’s children and future generations of students the same care and concern that we have received in the past, for the good of the community, for the good of our children, for the good of us all. Please vote YES for our one community, one school.
Dianne Klein
Bowling Green
