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Letters to the Editor

Stand up for the library

To the editor: The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County has a renewal levy on the Nov. 4 ballot. There is a group calling itself the Committee for Decent Libraries which is campaigning for the defeat of this levy because it does not approve of some books available to the public, specifically books dealing with transgenderism which are in the young adult and children section of the library. This has been an ongoing issue with this group, which wants all books with which it does not agree, removed. To put this in context, the library has approximately 65,000 items ...

To the editor: As the end of October approaches, I want to remind everyone in the Ohio Valley about the significance of Italian American Heritage Month, which is celebrated each year during this time. Established in 1989, this month serves as an opportunity to educate others and honor the numerous contributions of people of Italian descent to our country. The Ohio Valley, with its rich history, can proudly claim to be the home of several famous Italian Americans. In June, a group associated with the Heinz History Center visited the Jefferson County Historical Association museum ...

Keep lights on in the library

To the editor: I have been part of a group of concerned citizens who, in 2022, began advocating for our public libraries. It started when we discovered that the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County was coming under attack by people who were offended by books that don’t align with their particular beliefs. History has shown us that banning books never ends well. Local library officials tried to work with all involved to hear complaints while recognizing that libraries are public places where all law-abiding citizens deserve representation. Now it’s time ...

Mayo deserves a second term

To the editor: It is my pleasure to wholeheartedly recommend Councilman Royal Mayo for re-election to Steubenville City Council. As a lifelong resident of Steubenville and the current Fourth Ward councilman, I have had the privilege of working with Mayo for two years during my 12 years on City Council and on several community and economic development initiatives. During his time in office, Royal has demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving the quality of life for all Steubenville residents. His leadership was instrumental in trying to secure HUD’s Choice Neighborhoods ...

Some people are unaware

To the editor: I see signs from the Democratic Party that read, “We love people.” For some, that’s true: Some love illegal aliens, gang members, murderers, rapists, drag queens and rioters. Some especially love men in girls’ locker rooms and sports, like Maine Gov. Janet Mills. There are some who show a strange way of loving Trump, conservatives and religious people by shooting them and putting bounties on ICE agents. Here’s proof: The Democratic candidate for attorney general in Virginia, Jay Jones, texted that he wants to put two bullets into the head of his opponent ...

Libraries fill an important role

To the editor: 1995: Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an ignorant nation.” Walter Cronkite Some 30 years ago, Walter Cronkite made this statement and although many things have changed as we moved into the 21st century, libraries are even more important today. They inspire lifelong learning, advance knowledge, and strengthen our communities. The library is the one place that is open to everybody. The public library requires nothing of its visitors: No purchases, no membership fees, no dress code. You can stay all day, and you don’t ...