September 20, 2024
Letter

Cruel cuts

Like many people in Maine I have reached the end of my rope when it comes to government spending, and the budget choices that are being proposed. The programs and quick fixes that our government and governor continue to make are exponentially becoming more and more detrimental to our state’s well-being.

The biggest issue I have with the latest is Gov. John Baldacci cutting the funding to the Special Olympics. Out of all the areas of the government that we could save millions by reducing spending, they choose to cut the Special Olympics? When did our state turn into the schoolyard bully? They are choosing to cut something so insignificant monetarily wise as $20,000 from a group of people and events that bring joy to so many.

These cuts affect thousands of athletes, their families, volunteers and countless others who have been blessed to share in something that is so wholesome and real. The continued cuts in funding to the mentally and physically disabled in this state are deplorable.

Being the brother of a person with cerebral palsy, I have seen firsthand how they have cut all state programs for adults with disabilities. In my 10 years of going to the summer games in Orono, I have yet to see a governor there to watch the events. We have the highest taxes in the country, and we entrust you to do the right things with our money. Do the right thing and give the money to people who really appreciate it. Those of us that attend those events know that you can’t put a price on that kind of happiness.

Evan Frace

Bangor


Have feedback? Want to know more? Send us ideas for follow-up stories.

comments for this post are closed

You may also like