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What’s in a name?

What’s in a name ? It is a label we put on things, on places, on people and events. It gives identity, history and location. A name can bring on a sense of pride as well. Well, things may change in our part of North Central West Virginia. There has been a move among some state legislators to remove the name Spruce Knob, in favor of Trump Mountain. As I said in the beginning a name gives identity, history and location. Spruce Knob and Spruce Knob Lake have been main stays in this state since the beginning of time. Most things are named for someone that has done something to ...

Reader: Where are our elected representatives?

In 1787, the founding fathers gathered in Independence Hall in Philadelphia to hammer out a new plan for our government which we now know became the Constitution of the United States. This followed years of war (the Revolutionary War) with England ending in victory and independence for the brave colonists. They were exhausted from living under the tyrannical thumb of King George III and longed for a new form of government not ruled by one man. The preamble to the Constitution states in three simple words their belief: We the People. Because they were so intent on not living under ...

Reader enjoying political havoc

Well, readers, Uncle Joe did not drop a big atomic bomb upon his exit like I suspected; he instead dropped a MOAB bomb (Massive Ordnance Air Burst). The nick-name is Mother of All Bombs. They were used in the Middle East to destroy mountain-side tunnels and cave sanctuaries. They make a big noise but certainly not nuclear. That’s about all the noise Biden could make with his closely guarded secret pardons surprise, and he waited until 15 minutes before the inauguration to sign it. Pardoned his whole family, they say. Why? Because they’re all guilty and he will need ...

New options for Super Bowl snacks

As Super Bowl Sunday nears, it’s worth considering the staggering number of chickens sacrificed for a single day of indulgence — an estimated 375 million, just for wings. This annual tradition, though beloved by many, comes at a great cost to animals, the planet, and even our health. Fortunately, there’s a kinder and equally satisfying alternative: plant-based wings. Made from ingredients like tofu, seitan, potatoes, or even cauliflower, these plant-based wings options pack all the flavor, without harm to animals. Brands like Blackbird, Gardein, and Daring, offer ...

Generosity of local residents honored

The overwhelming generosity of the people of Elkins​ helped provide joy to children in need through Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts this season.  Across the U.S., the Samaritan’s Purse project collected 10.5 million shoebox gifts in 2024. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2024, the ministry is now sending over 11.9 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide. Shoebox packers brought joy and hope to children around the world through fun, full, personalized gifts. For many children, this is the first gift they have ever received. ...

Reader praises decision by BOE

As a born-and-bred Randolph Countian, I am writing to express my gratitude for the Randolph County Board of Education’s recent decision to keep Harman School open, and the subsequent withdrawal of the proposal to close Pickens School. The Board’s thoughtful stance, especially in the face of significant financial challenges, demonstrates its commitment to serving and protecting all Randolph County students, including those in our most remote areas. The Board’s decision required courage, wisdom, and foresight. Undoubtedly, the county school system is faced with immediate and ...