Wear mask for others’ sake, if not for yourself

April 17, 2020

Today I was at the grocery store and could not help but notice that the majority of store patrons were not wearing masks. One couple actually said to me that I was part of a “Democratic conspiracy” pushing a scare campaign about this COVID-19 nonsense! I am a person with a chronic illness and this virus would definitely kill me were I unfortunate enough to contact it. The lack of care displayed by people who are disregarding Centers for Disease Control guidelines in this way frightens me. We have a small hospital that could be easily overwhelmed by an outbreak. I believe this ...

LaFave criticism of stay-home order off base

April 16, 2020

COVID-19 is non-partisan. Republicans, Democrats, conservatives, liberals, “Bernie Bros,” Trumpists, and socialists are all the same to the coronavirus. However, in the 108th District, represented by none other than Beau “What, me worry?” LaFave, there is a cautionary tale to be told. U.S. Census data 2019 estimates show about 84,000 residents in District 108, of which nearly 19,320 are 65 and older and about 10,613 are disabled and younger than 65. The Centers for Disease Control advise that the aged, those with serious health condition of any age — such as heart ...

A need to elect good managers

April 15, 2020

As you may or may not know, I am not young — 75 last November — and I am a disabled Vietnam War veteran. The most critical aspect of that right now is a lung impairment as a result of a cancer that was due to dioxin exposure. So it follows that I have a legitimate fear of the COVID-19 disease. I am also at least average in intelligence, so I know what to do. First, I listen to people who have knowledge of this thing and then follow their recommendations. In other words, for the very most part, I am staying at home. If you have a health issue or if you do not and you are not an ...

Consider using stimulus money to help others

April 10, 2020

Millions of Americans will receive a bank deposit or check from the federal government to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of them will desperately need the help, because they have lost their jobs, or their small businesses have closed, or they face uncovered medical bills, or for many other reasons. The extra government money will be a big help, but for some people it will not be enough to meet their needs. Some Americans, however, can get by without the extra money. Take, for instance, a retired middle-class couple: Their invested savings have taken a huge hit because of ...

Still ways to mark Easter at home

April 8, 2020

With no Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday services at the majority of local churches, Christians can still worship in their own way. Family can still enjoy the traditional Easter dinner, egg hunt, baskets, candy and outdoor activities, weather permitting. Radio and television will offer broadcasting and viewing. Prayers are urgently needed for our great nation, health care workers and the entire worldwide population. Stay safe, eat healthy, hand washing, face masks are optional and when possible stay home. Call your neighbor and the elderly, help and share when needed. The ...

The silver lining in this situation

April 7, 2020

I have become so dismayed by all the negative news about the coronavirus that I thought it was high time to give us a little positive reinforcement. Maybe I’m one of the few who sees this pandemic as a warning from God to “get back to basics” — live the Golden Rule and love him. We have turned our backs on him and Christian teachings our homes, schools and communities. I have said to myself on numerous occasions, “God, I don’t know why you have allowed us to live on your Earth this long!”  Yes, this virus is devastating but if we truly believe in the goodness of our ...