Letters to the Editor

Cosby Apparently Has No Shame

Editor, News-Register: It is quite disturbing, indeed, to see the apparent degeneration of the “off-screen” character of the iconic actor/comedian Bill Cosby, who was born on July 12, 1937 in Philadelphia, and for a great many years was extremely popular and highly respected, earning him the title of “America’s Dad” for his portrayal of Dr. Cliff Huxtable on the ultra-popular television situation comedy series “The Cosby Show.” The show, which appeared on network television from 1984-1992, was ranked, from 1985-1989, as the top-rated prime-time program on ...

‘Gun Violence’ Not the Problem

Editor, News-Register: “Gun Violence” means nothing. You cannot attribute actions to inanimate objects. Everybody knows it but everybody says it. Words used to have very specific meanings but now mean whatever you want if you’re in the driver’s seat. It’s like the story “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Although foolish, you better agree or face his wrath. Today you get canceled. Obviously guns are not violent. Remember Shane? “A Gun is a tool, Marian; no better or no worse than any other tool: an axe, a shovel or anything. A gun is as good or as bad as the man ...

Solution to Rising COVID Cases

Editor, News-Register: Covid cases are increasing at an alarming rate, yet more than 95% (of cases) are unvaccinated people. Nearly all of the recent Covid deaths were unvaccinated. Nevertheless, anti-vaxxers insist on not getting jabbed. They howl about their freedom, unconcerned that they are spreading disease to others. Government agencies are considering compelling the wearing of masks, and even forcing vaccinations, in order to stem this Covid onslaught which might produce even more virulent variants. If enacted, anti-vaxxers will howl even louder. But there is an easier ...

Join Local Fight Against Cancer

Editor, News-Register: Beating our biggest rival takes more than breakthrough research. It takes things like out 24/7 cancer help line and free rides to chemo. By joining the Relay For Life movement in our community, we can all help the American Cancer Society attack cancer from every angle. Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Washington in 1985, the Relay For Life movement unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have been touched by cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action for lifesaving change. Symbolizing the battle waged around the clock by those facing ...

Reinvigorate Community Days

Editor, News-Register: My wife and I, as we do every year, recently attended the Follansbee Community Days festival. The live music was very enjoyable, and the closing fireworks display remains one of the best in the Valley, as far as we’re concerned. Their fireworks are always a highlight of our summer. However … I’ve lived in Weirton since 1991, long enough to remember what I’ll call the “Community Days of Yore,” held on Virginia Avenue. Remember? Back when vendors stretched the length of the street for several blocks. Thousands of people crowded into the narrow ...

Exercise Your Freedom to Vote

Editor, News-Register: The exception does not make the rule. It’s about 6:30 on a cool July morning. I’ve been sitting on my porch since about 3:30 troubled and not able to sleep. I’m writing after having spent that time reading my Bible and praying and ruminating. Forty-nine years ago today I was on a U.S. Navy destroyer off the coast of Vietnam. My specific duty at the time was as the trigger man for our ship’s guns. We shot thousands of rounds inland and in return were fired upon multiple times. It was very hot. On 25 August 1969, I went to boot camp. I was ...