Media and the drug problem

October 2, 2016

Dear Editor:How much are you really in control of your thoughts and habits? Much has been made of the recent drug crisis in eastern Ohio over the last few years and there is now very little room to deny that there is a major trend. Many people look at the financial implications and the massive availability of these drugs as the driving force behind this fast expanding trend. However, I would like to propose another explanation for this boom in drug consumption, this being our entertainment outlets.It may seem like a naive thought to believe that what people watch and expose themselves to ...

Photograph served its purpose

October 2, 2016

Dear Editor:Much has been written and posted recently regarding the drug epidemic which is present in several of our local areas. This problem was highlighted in a shocking photo showing a couple passed out in a vehicle with a small child in the rear seat.Reaction to this photo has produced a variety of responses due to the fact that the child's face is visible and was not blurred in some instances. What the legal or ethical rules state are not my major concern after viewing this photo. These issues are seemingly overshadowed by the safety of this child being present in a vehicle with ...

Foundation should go own way

October 2, 2016

Dear Editor:In her Sept. 11 letter to the editor, Cari McIntyre, secretary of the Hancock County Animal Shelter, stated: "The last meeting of the Hancock County Commission left no doubt that management of the animal shelter will never be reinstated to the Hancock County Animal Shelter Foundation."Why, then, does she keep coming to commission meetings? Why does the same small group of foundation supporters attend every meeting to berate, accuse and insult the commissioners?Speaking at the Sept. 14 commission meeting, I asked foundation supporters rhetorically "Why are you still here?" One ...

Support Breast Cancer awareness

October 2, 2016

Dear Editor:As we all are aware, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Pink Ribbons and decorations are displayed throughout the valley. (Thanks to the efforts of CHANGE Inc.) Mayor Forsythe of Chester, Mayor McNeil of New Cumberland, Mayor Miller of Weirton and the Hancock County Commission have or will proclaim the month as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wreathes will be placed in city/county offices.I would like to take this opportunity to inform all residents of the Valley about the "Walk for Women ... take a Step against Cancer Awareness" walk on Saturday, Oct. 8. Registration ...

Can’t trust his word

October 2, 2016

Dear Editor:I have heard much talk about a candidate, Mr. Mark Cowden, that is running for sheriff of Hancock County, W.Va. To my understanding, Mr. Cowden has been indicted on current federal charges for crimes relating to a violation of civil rights and filing false police reports. These are facts, not rumors or gossip. I have spoken with many people from the community, that are concerned about what will happen if Mr. Cowden is convicted of these federal charges and will he be allowed to hold the office of sheriff. These questions began my search for the answer. I found some ...

Appreciated 9/11 ceremony

September 25, 2016

Dear Editor:On Sept. 11, 2016, I had the pleasure of attending a program in Lisbon, Ohio, to recognize veterans and first responders. As a Vietnam veteran, I was very honored to be in attendance.It takes special people to serve our country and also special people that work hard to make these ceremonies a reality. After the flag pole program, a dinner was served and a quilt presentation was made to the nominees.I would like to thank Mr. Jack Kidd of Austintown, Ohio, for the nomination and Ms. Sharen Cope for donating her time and effort to make the beautiful quilt for me.Rodger L. ...