How to help shelter animals

August 8, 2026

Animals, through no fault of their own, end up in shelters. There are many reasons: strays, abandoned animals that came from people, surrendered pets, deceased or sick owners, court ordered shelter care till cases are resolved in court, and injured animals that owners can't afford  to pay vet bills. Some of these animals need to be euthanized due to injuries or bad behavioral problems. Some of the animals don't do well in a small kennel. The Randolph County Humane Society is landlocked, so dogs aren't able to go outside to use the bathroom or enjoy the outside. They need to go out ...

Reader: Don’t sell West Virginia out again

August 1, 2026

Honorable governor, ladies, gentlemen, West Virginia has been exploited since its beginning. Beginning with the coal mining and timber harvesting moguls of the 20th Century. Why stop now? I will not quote the many resources that list the dangers of Ultra High KV transmission lines. Both sides of the argument have their evidence or lack of it. The age-old question is, “Would you live under or nearby such a transmission line?” It does boil down to a simple country wisdom, doesn't it? I think I know your answer! If it is to be forced down our throats, I would choose the most ...

50 years of business and marriage

July 25, 2026

I recently read an article about a friend and colleague, Greg Morgan, whose years at a local bank were recognized. I worked with Greg for 34 and a half years and know about his excellent character and professionalism. After reading the article, I felt spurred to bring to the attention of our great city and surrounding area another person who should be mentioned: Dr. Jerry M. Metheny, DDS, who just acheived 50 years of dental practice in Elkins. Dr. Metheny, who I will refer to as Jerry because he never asks to stand out in a crowd, has served this area as an outstanding dentist, but ...

Little League program exceeds expectations

July 18, 2026

I am writing to recognize the outstanding Little League All-Star program that has made this season truly special for our community's young athletes. The coaching staff deserves immense praise (Anthony Severino, Justin Arbogast, and Dalton Schneider) for their excellence. Their patient guidance, skill development, and positive approach have helped the boys grow not only as players but as confident, team oriented young men. The progress I've seen in my son has been remarkable. Equally impressive has been the incredible support from the parents. Their dedication, from organizing meals ...

Pride versus patriotism

July 18, 2026

What is patriotism? At a time when Americans are being asked how proud they feel of their country, it is worth remembering that pride and patriotism are not the same thing. A recent NBC poll asked Americans how they feel about the state of the nation as we celebrate the 250th anniversary. Questions ranged from one’s confidence in the economy to whether we still had shared values. But pundits are zeroing in on a different issue. A guest editorial in The Inter-Mountain by Rich Lowry even suggested the poll revealed a Democratic “patriotism gap.” A closer look at the actual ...

Looking at Humane Society funding issues

July 11, 2026

The following was sent to Randolph County Commission President David Kesling: Here we go again. I may be the only one to speak up, but I will do all I can to defend and support these innocent animals and dedicated volunteers that give so much time and heart to helping these animals. Is it because they are building a cat house? Are you saying they must have money if they can do that? You do know the building was unsalvagable. Two volunteers are building this place. That's why a year from starting it's not finished yet. Is it because dead people leave them money? That's how they have ...