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‘Rivals’ with no hesitation to help

Editorials

Friendly rivalries and territorial touchiness aside, when it really counts, Mid-Ohio Valley schools are there for one another. That was proved again last week when the lights went out in Williamstown just ahead of the Class AA, Region I semifinal boys basketball game between Williamstown and Ravenswood. A transformer had blown, plunging the gym into darkness and leaving coaches and administrators scrambling for a solution; though coaches also tried to turn it into a motivator. “In talking with Mick, we have never experienced something like this — that’s the first time that has ...

Pinewood Derby a cherished tradition

Editorials

It’s hard to beat traditions such as the annual Kootaga District Pinewood Derby, which brings Scouting families together in a competitive tradition that has been sustained since the 1950s. Late last month, at West Virginia University at Parkersburg, this year’s event featured more than 50 Scouts and family members. “Pinewood Derby racing started in 1955. That’s been a key part of Scouting for a long time,” said John Shepard, Kootaga District race chairman. “Cub Scouts can race at the pack level in their individual groups, and then this is an opportunity for them to all come ...

God’s words unlock the treasures of eternity

Life

By Mark Wilmoth You own nothing. You think you own the money in your bank account. After all, you’ve earned it. It puts food on your table and a roof over your head and clothes on your back. You’re using your money to make a better life for your family, right? But God replies, “You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today” (Deuteronomy 8:17-18, ...

How Plessy v Ferguson led to Brown v Board

Local Columns

In 1892, Homer Plessy, who was one-eighth Black, purchased a first-class ticket and sat in the White-designated railroad car. Plessy was arrested for violating Louisiana’s Separate Car Act and argued in court that the act violated the 10th and 14th Constitutional Amendments. The 10th Amendment reserves broad, undefined powers for the states, and the 14th Amendment says states may not deny people equal protection of the law. Ferguson (1838–1915) was the Louisiana judge who presided over the district court of Orleans. He ruled against Plessy by upholding the state’s Separate Car ...

Think carefully, don’t spread rumors

Editorials

Political and military turmoil sets us all on edge — and there is no doubt the events of the last several years combined with the pervasive nature of social media already have our collective mental health and ability to interact with one another civilly in a fragile state. Wood County Sheriff Rick Woodyard was right to try to get ahead of fears that surfaced after U.S. strikes against Iran. “First and foremost, there is currently no credible or verified threat specific to our county. We remain in regular communication with our local, state, and federal partners, and we receive ...

Local citizens or paid consultant?

Local Columns

In his recent Viewpoint, “Local Columnist” Daniel McKenzie failed to share his credentials, and he did not say how long, if ever, he has lived in our community. The Times states that Mr. McKenzie is a “research director” for the Accountability Project Institute “API.” I’d like to know what exactly are the qualifications to serve as a research director for API — is it being a children’s book illustrator from New Zealand? Because, that is who Mr. McKenzie is. Right now, on Amazon, you can buy his latest children’s book “God Bless America 250 Years Strong,” completed ...