Published: November 27, 2008 08:33 am            

READERS' FORUM 11/30 | Election is over; start working together

Now that the presidential election is over and the people have made their choice, it seems as though this forum is hearing from all of the most “vocal” Republican critics.

Some predicted in past letters that a close win would prevail for Republican Sen. John McCain. Surprise, surprise – a landslide for Democratic Sen. Barack Obama.

The most perfect examples of the “sore loser syndrome” are the ones who keep writing negative, sarcastic and just plain ignorant, disagreeable letters about Obama before he even takes office and serves.

How very sad.

Get over it, accept it and start working together for the common good of this great country. Prove your love of America by cooperation, instead of whining and poking cheap shots at Obama.

Robert Cotchen

Johnstown



Ousted EMS chief’s expertise unmatched

I was somewhat shocked when I read the letter about Terry Sloan’s discharge as manager of Ebensburg Area Ambulance Association (Nov. 18, “EMS manager unfairly ousted”).

I was heavily involved in the ambulance community for more than 25 years, a few of those as manager of West End Ambulance Service in Johnstown.

During that time, I was fortunate to befriend and work with Terry on numerous occasions, including serving as co-chairmen on the Cambria/Somerset EMS Advisory Council. I can say without hesitation that there was no individual more dedicated to bringing the highest level of emergency care to his community.

His expertise was unmatched and his compassion for the people he helped unmistakable. I and other EMS managers relied on his advice on numerous occasions. He was a true leader.

Now, I know there are two sides to every story, and it has been a few years since I stepped into an ambulance; however, I cannot imagine a scenario where letting Terry go would be a positive step for Ebensburg Area Ambulance and the communities the group serves.

If it’s not too late, I hope this unfortunate situation can be rectified.

I commend Terry’s daughter, Rebecca, for writing her letter. No father could be more proud.

Doug Meagher

Johnstown



Manager’s dedication second to none

In response to “EMS manager unfairly ousted”: I felt it necessary to add to this letter because I didn’t want residents of the Ebensburg area to dismiss it because it came from a family member.

Terry Sloan and I were part of the first paramedic program in western Pennsylvania. In 1977, we were part of a small group that developed the advanced life support program in our region.

Since then, he has continued to be a leader in improving EMS, not only for Ebensburg but for the entire state.

The word-count guideline for letters to this forum keeps me from listing all the projects in which he has been involved. However, I can say that he has managed one of the best-trained, best-equipped and responsive services in Pennsylvania, doing so while maintaining a debt-free association.

I know this because I was the manager of Portage EMS.

Ebensburg area residents, don’t let this happen in your community. Men of Terry’s education, experience, and dedication to his community are very hard to find. Don’t lose him.

Emil F. Squillario

Portage



‘Home’ top-heavy with administration

Some politicians in Cambria County want to be rid of the sick and elderly because of a budget deficit.

They blame Laurel Crest’s operations for the county government deficit.

Greedy nursing-home giants want Laurel Crest. Sell it and it will be the euthanizing of a 100-year obligation to the poor.

Laurel Crest is top-heavy with administration. Salaries in the $100,000 range contribute to the deficit. Three administrators here were ranked in the top 10 of the highest-paid county employees.

We have some workers here who can’t make it without outside financial help, yet they work hard. Where there once was eight people working, there are now four; where there were four, there are now two.

Employees are facing needless pressures from administration. There are forced 16-hour days, sometimes three days a week.

No wonder there are call-offs. They’re tired.

Your mother, father, grandmother or grandfather is not living lavishly here. The only excess is the staff’s love and attention. Their care softens dying without wealth or health.

If Laurel Crest is not for the poor, as administration has told the nurses, it would be better to send your tax dollars directly to the homeless and those dying alone and frightened in their homes.

Jim Morrissey

Laurel Crest

Ebensburg

        

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