Breaking News

Opinion

Coal is still a vital part of energy mix

Editorials

As the U.S. Senate considers codifying the reestablishment of the National Coal Council, lawmakers have an opportunity. U.S. Rep. Michael Rulli’s bill drew support from enough Democrats in the House of Representatives that it is now moving to the Senate, which will consider whether it is necessary to back up the executive order that, among other things, called for reinstating the group that provides guidance on the future of coal technologies and markets. And Rulli, a Republican from Salem whose 6th Congressional District includes our area, is right. It is important for those ...

Guest column/West Virginia must act now and implement IDD increases

Local Columns

West Virginians with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve the opportunity to live, learn, work, and thrive in their communities. The services that make this possible — provided by dedicated professionals across our state — are at risk. Unless the state implements rate increases for IDD services on Oct. 1, more providers will be forced to close their doors, and families will lose the critical support they depend on every day. This is not a new issue. A 2023 rate study recommended a 31 percent increase to IDD home and community-based service rates. Providers ...

Here we go again

Letters to the Editor

To the editor: In his Sept. 20 letter, Barry Bardone claims Democrats are just as guilty of gerrymandering as Republicans, pointing to Massachusetts and Illinois to make his case. But his examples, as usual, don’t stand up to a simple Google search — and they certainly don’t excuse what has happened in Ohio. First, Massachusetts. The writer says the state has 11 districts and that Republicans are “gerrymandered out” despite Trump winning 42 percent of the vote. Both claims are incorrect. Massachusetts has nine congressional districts, not 11. And Donald Trump never won 42 ...

History in the Hills: Volunteer contributions

Local Columns

This next year we have many anniversaries to look forward to at Historic Fort Steuben. Starting in 2026, our nation will celebrate its 250th anniversary and the fort will be ready to share in the festivities. We are actively planning events to make 2026 a fantastic year, not only at the fort, but in the community as well. Also, next year will mark the 20th anniversary of our Concert Series, which began on site with a small stage in the parking lot of the Visitor Center. Now, we are hosting concerts in the Berkman Amphitheater to packed bleachers. Look for a great lineup when it is ...

Choose to live for now rather than looking back at life

Local Columns

There are moments when we all either intentionally or unintentionally reflect upon our past. We look back and think about mistakes we have made along the way. Why? Why do we look at where we have been instead of where we are going? Is it because it is easier? Familiar? But what will be? What is to come? Well, that seems kind of frightening, doesn’t it? We never know what will happen from day to day or if we will be even given a tomorrow. Despite how convincing ortalented somebody is at convincing us they can see into our future, they can’t, for only God knows ...

A real library legend

Local Columns

If you have used any of the services offered at any one of the branches that are part of the system operated by the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County during the last several decades, you have been touched by the efforts of Alan Hall. Hall, who died Sept. 12 at the age of 71, served a the director of the system for nearly 40 years before his retirement. And even after Mike Gray, who worked as his assistant for 16 years, moved into the director’s spot, Hall continued to share his insights and talents with the staff as director emeritus. He could often be found ...