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We’re still dumping pollutants on our roads

Recently, the Department of Environmental Protection told the PA House Environmental Committee all contaminated water -- brine -- from conventional oil, gas and mineral brine wells contains the same pollutants-- hydrocarbons, salts, heavy metals and other chemicals. These pollutants, DEP said, are potentially harmful to the environment and can threaten drinking water. DEP said studies have shown spreading this contaminated water on roads to reduce dust-- its primary use-- is no more effective than plain water, but with environmental risks. It also chemically destabilizes dirt and ...

A small museum exhibits a big story

Lucille Ball’s fame and accomplishments are a true source of pride for Jamestown. But there was another Lucile, whose accomplishments, career, and legacy are important for everyone interested in aviation. Lucile M. Wright was a 20th century aviation pioneer in Jamestown. The museum that ...

It’s easier to vote for Garrity than Shapiro

Is Gov. Josh Shapiro really the best candidate to run our Commonwealth? I don't think so! If he is always touting affordability, then why is he the highest-paid governor, earning $253,870 per year, out of all 50 states? Maybe he should take a pay cut or decline his salary. At that point, he would be putting his money where his mouth is! That doesn't seem too affordable for the taxpayers to me. Yep, that's right. He makes more than Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York and Gov. Gavin Newsom of California. As a matter of fact, of the 10 highest-paid governors, only two are Republicans! All ...

Now is time to revisit abortion discussion

Having lived when abortion was illegal and watched its legalization, I think it’s time to have a hard discussion about the role of abortion in 2026. Abortion is not a new or progressive idea. Throughout human history, both ancient and recent, abortion has been used to end a pregnancy. Pregnant women have had to navigate a lack of the compassion and support now available. Centuries ago, pregnant women could be sent to the workhouse, cast out onto the street or denied medical care, resulting in complications or death. Their children could be forcibly placed in horrific orphanages. ...

The mice, St. David, and the knobs

The story begins with a cat and a stove. Our Maine Coon, Finian, used to camp in front of the stove at night. It took me a while to realize he was on sentry duty. It was a particularly winter behavior. Although I never actively look for signs of a mouse resident, it finally occurred to me that ...

There’s still time to prepare for Election Day

After nearly a year of debate and litigation, all issues about voting are settled for Pennsylvania, and there have been no changes. Tuesday, Nov. 3 is time for us all to vote. Here are reminders of important deadlines and resources for all Pennsylvania voters. You can learn about voting in Pennsylvania at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/vote. You can link from there to register to vote, to change your registration (for example, address change), to check your registration if you are unsure about whether you’re registered, to request a mail-in ballot, to find your polling place, and ...