Residents wonder why things seem bad

KEVIN & MAGGIE KNITTLE, Van WertWe are in awe trying to figure out what is happening to Van Wert. We sit back and continue to see negatives occurring on a regular basis. Businesses are closing, along with restaurants. Then factor in that factories are closing or locking workers out. Then I hear our elected officials, don't want to get involved? And don't forget the ultimate...our department store shopping is limited to only one choice. I hear regularly that people need to do business in Van Wert, keep the dollars local. I believe if more choices were given, the dollars would stay in Van Wert. I would love to know the answer to why Van Wert doesn't have another large department store, or how about a nice resturaunt chain besides fast food? Another pondering question is what were the fairground officials thinking when they allowed scab parking at Van Wert Co. Fairgrounds? As a community, all of Van Wert citizens should be supporting these workers. This entire community is affected by what is happening because Teleflex has been here for many years.Everyone either has family, friends, or someone who is closely connected. It's saddening to see what really matters in this town slowly deteriorating. Van Wert is a ghost town going nowhere! Maybe that is why we are hearing more and more people contemplating moving out of this town and county. And now we are slowly finding ourselves becoming part of these conversations due to everything listed above. If anyone can shed some light, we gladly are open to the answers.