Raise alarm over Trump attacks on free speech

Political rhetoric has escalated from a dull rumble to a fever-pitch on steroids over the past decade.

When discussion about bringing the temperature down on both sides occurs, there seems to be a big elephant in the room. It seems to be more than coincidence that this toxic sludge has poisoned the political discussion since Trump descended the escalator in 2015 and threw his red hat into the ring.

Trump cut his political teeth on the ridiculous conspiracy theory that Obama wasn’t born in this country. He declared that Mexicans are rapists and murderers, attacked Gold Star families and mocked a disabled reporter. McCain was not a hero because he was captured.

Trump dubbed Clinton, “Crooked Hillary” and declared that she should be “locked up” to his raucous rally attendees. Reporters at these events often had to be escorted out by security when he attacked the press.

On Jan. 6, Trump urged his summoned supporters to, “Fight like hell,” and march with him to the Capitol. He watched the violence unfold on television while police were beaten.

Trump has utilized his First Amendment rights with abandon. He seeks to strip that same right from Americans who disagree with him. This should alarm us all.

Vesta Bartholomew

Ballston Lake

Batch plant is a health, environmental threat

I’m writing on behalf of my family and concerned neighbors regarding the proposal to build a concrete batch plant near Route 87 Exit 10 in Clifton Park.

The town is looking to fast-track approval without carefully considering the significant health and environmental risks of placing such a facility so close to residential areas.

For example, my home is less than 0.75 miles from the proposed location.

I am a mechanical engineer with a bachelor’s and master’s degree and over 15 years of experience. In my profession, I’ve become familiar with the hazards of concrete and cement dust, and I am deeply concerned about the health risks posed to our community.

Concrete batch plants generate airborne pollutants, including fine particulate matter and respirable crystalline silica. OSHA, NIOSH, and the NIH identify silica as a severe hazard and human carcinogen. Exposure can cause silicosis, COPD, lung cancer, asthma, and worsen allergies. Unlike controlled workplaces where worker protections may be enforced, outdoor plant emissions will inevitably spread into neighborhoods, schools, and parks — especially impacting children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory issues.

Beyond human health, concrete batch plants also contribute to environmental degradation. Dust emissions can settle on homes, vehicles, and vegetation, reducing property values and quality of life.

We have urged the town to weigh these documented risks when evaluating this proposal. The placement of a concrete........

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