Dear Editor:

Over the past few years I’ve attended Parryville Borough Council meetings to discuss various topics. I was always treated courteously and listened to with respect. I was impressed with the leadership of Council President Jason Kurek-Smith and the willingness of council members to hear my concerns.

I was sorry to hear that President Kurek-Smith resigned, and I was appalled at the reported rudeness of some members of the audience. As a political science professor, one of my assignments was to send students to a public meeting and report their observations. Over the years, I noticed more and more reports of rude behavior, personal insults, and even physical threats. This is not the way for citizens in a democracy to express their opinions.

I hope we will soon see a return to good manners and civility. Our country needs this far more than Facebook rants and angry public displays.

Roy Christman

Towamensing Township