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Thank you for the thoughtful discussion on this subject.  I am a former reporter who has had an opportunity over the past 16 years to teach in the Oregon public school system.  I can tell you first hand how important these measures are to my school, my classroom and my students.

Measure 66 asks those who are doing the best in our state — individuals making over $125,000 a year and couples making over $250,000 — to pay a bit more to help Oregonians who are being hurt most by economic crisis. Measure 67 says that large corporations that make millions of dollars in Oregon should pay more than $10 to fund schools, basic services, and public safety that we all depend on.

What IS the alternative if these measures fail?  I know what will happen to many classrooms.  We will see fewer teachers.  We will see less supplies to support learning.  We will see classrooms even more crowded so there will be less time working with students one-on-one.

The impact on our future generation depends on how voters in Oregon respond to  these measures.  Those that are being asked to give more obviously were able to prosper due to a good education.  I think that's all we are asking as supporters of these two measures.  Please join me in voting yes.

posted 3 years, 4 months ago
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