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Editorials

When we talk about shortages of workers in certain fields in Ohio, the legal profession is not often mentioned. But according to Mary Amos Augsburger, CEO of the Ohio State Bar Association, there is an attorney shortage so severe here that it is jeopardizing legal rights. “While those accused of a crime have a constitutional right to counsel, the legal needs of Ohioans extend far beyond criminal defense, and people need lawyers to help them with adoptions, divorces, starting a business and protecting their property,” Augsburger told the Ohio House Finance Committee. “Without ...

Lawmakers, legalized marijuana and listening to voting majority

Editorials

One does not need to have voted in favor of the 2023 legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio to understand what lawmakers are now attempting is misguided at best. Both the state Senate and House of Representatives are working on bills that would significantly change the marijuana laws that allowed for the start of sales in August 2024. Back in November 2023, approximately 57% of those who voted in Ohio were in favor of a regulated adult recreational use marijuana market in the state. When Issue 2 passed, tax revenue from sales was to be divided: 36% to the cannabis social equity ...

Predators may be targeting your kids through technology

Editorials

Technology can make life easier and better in many ways. Think about it. You can order something today with the miniature computer in your pocket or purse and often have it delivered to your doorstep tomorrow. You can stay in contact with family and friends on several social-media platforms. Medical technology has advanced to the point where diseases or accidents that once left people dead or severely disabled can be successfully dealt with — sometimes with a minimal hospital stay or on an outpatient basis. But the downside of technology is something we often don’t like to ...

Take time to enjoy a local spring theater production

Editorials

Auditoriums in our area’s schools again are being filled, as our high and middle schools offer their annual spring productions. The presentations offer a great opportunity for relatives, friends and area residents to support our school districts while enjoying the talents of area students. Each of these productions represents the culmination of months and months of hard work from students who learned lines, songs and dance routines. The shows are examples of the patience and hard work of the teachers and directors, and of support staff including students and parents and other ...

Many of DeWine’s budget plans won’t go anywhere

Columns

While this was the first State of the State address for Tex Fischer, R-Boardman, and David Thomas, R-Jefferson, as Ohio House members, the two said they knew what to expect from Gov. Mike DeWine. “The governor was going to emphasize education, workforce and career tech and try to sell for his budget plan,” Fischer said. “It’s part of the political process. He’s selling his budget.” But Fischer said he and other Republicans in the Ohio House remain unmoved on DeWine’s budget proposals to increase taxes on sports betting, cigarettes and adult recreational ...

Lives literally depend on fixing internet ‘dead zones’

Editorials

KFF Health News, has published a report called “Dead Zone: Millions in U.S. Live in Places Where Doctors Don’t Practice and Telehealth Doesn’t Reach.” It’s an intriguing look at communities and counties where residents tend to have more health problems, fewer health professionals and insufficient access to broadband internet. Southeast Ohio has a significant number of counties where residents live in such “dead zones.” “Compared with those in other regions, patients across the rural South, Appalachia, and remote West are most often unable to make a video call to their ...