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Letters

Esteemed leaders in science, policy

The future of our society lies in the hands of those who dare to ask questions, seek answers, and improve lives through scientific discovery. Among the many challenges we face, few are as profound and universal as cancer — a disease that affects millions of families worldwide. Yet, as federal funding for scientific research faces increasing jeopardy, the progress we have made in understanding and combating cancer is at risk. The importance of federally funded research in cancer cannot be overstated. Over the decades, these investments have led to groundbreaking discoveries, from ...

Biblical illiteracy deteriorates trust, justice

The story in the edition of the June 28 Sun-Gazette about Roberto Oliva is sad. Some questions: Why didn’t Roberto inform the court of his new address? Was he really serious about becoming a citizen? Why is his last name Oliva, but his wife’s married name Alvarez; his third name, not his last? Is it possible he has a wife in Peru? What was/is his business? Did he have illegal immigrants working, and not reporting their activity? What were his activities in Peru? What do Nicole’s migraines and her father’s career have to do with his decision to not inform the court of his new ...

Postal Service valuable

The letter in the June 25 edition indicating the value of the United States Postal Service was spot on. This organization established by Benjamin Franklin with the promise of providing delivery to every household has been the subject of many complaints and has been targeted many times for replacement or privatization. Before going any further, I must acknowledge that I am a proud retired United States Postal Service Employee, so my view may lean in support of what this organization represents. I was involved during my career in many “Reorganizations” many of which were positive ...

Weimar fell in steps — so can we

The Weimar Republic did not fall in one day. It fell step-by-step: economic hardship, political violence, conspiracies that blamed scapegoats, erosion of democratic norms, and a “legal” seizure of power that ended democracy. Many dismissed the danger. Others assumed institutions would hold until it was too late. Today, in the United States, we can see the unsettling parallels. We have faced economic strain and deep polarization. We have witnessed political violence with shameful regularity. Our voices are threatened by laws designed to undermine voting rights. We are flooded with ...

Health funding cuts

The NIH (National Institutes of Health) has faced immense funding cuts since DOGE and RFK Jr came into the picture in January. They fund crucial health research to address cancer, diabetes, dementia and more. The funding also boosts the economy, returning more than 250% of the value invested. The White House ordered these cuts nationwide, taking the funds back already promised to the states. We need to know in Lycoming County that this affects us. The current loss is $599 thousand, and the Annual future loss will be $2.2 million. Budgetary responsibility belongs to Congress, yet the ...

A logical conclusion

Extremes of any nature are not of the common good. Logically, our Constitution separates church from state. Iran is a Muslim nation of willing martyrs. Israel is awaiting a miracle from God.These distinctions are, and have been, the impetus for incredible violence. Our Constitution provides for all religions with the distinction that one has nothing to do with the other. Yet we provide arms and millions in aid to Israel, thus we are complicit and in danger. Odd, the media doesn’t mention North Korea and their nuclear program, nor the danger it poses. Oct 7th was monstrous, but every ...