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Letters to the Editor

ACT a true community gem

I recently had the pleasure of attending the Altoona Community Theatre’s production of “Mary Poppins” at the Mishler Theatre, and I feel compelled to express my deep appreciation for the extraordinary talent showcased in this performance. From the very first scene, it was clear that this production was the result of immense dedication, passion and hard work. The cast and crew were nothing short of phenomenal, bringing to life a timeless story with creativity, heart and precision. It is truly impressive to witness the caliber of talent we have right here in Altoona. Director ...

‘Fiddler’ was amazing night at the Mishler

This is my first time to send a letter to the editor. I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to share our delight and total enjoyment watching Great Commission Schools’ production of “Fiddler on the Roof.” It was a fantastic production and each and every one taking part — from the orchestra, stage crew to every member that had a part in the play — was like a Broadway production … It was a night of pure joy and we were entertained beyond words. At intermission, so many comments were “I feel like I’m watching a Broadway show in New York City!” When we hear so much ...

The magic of one seed

I was on a trip to Kentucky recently. Along the way, I watched thousands of trees swaying back and forth in the wind. It made me wonder about the one seed that started it all. How the sun, wind and rain nurtured them to grow in order to give us the oxygen we need to improve our air quality of life. The fruit that gives our body nutrients, the flowers that make us see the beauty of nature, which in turn gives our mind and body a sense of peace. Also, the mention of the shade that protects us from the heat. When I got to my destination to visit a newborn baby, the thought of that one ...

Battle with depression should elicit empathy

Because May is Mental Health Month, I feel inspired to write the following in hopes that others might try to understand and have empathy for someone battling clinical depression: As usual, a high-profile individual is unmercifully chastised and ridiculed for their battle with clinical depression. Although I don’t agree with all of the issues for which U.S. Sen. John Fetterman stands for, his ongoing battle with clinical depression stands out. I write this because I have battled many episodes of clinical depression for over 40 years. It is so debilitating and markedly shamed by ...

Anti-Catholicism from President Trump

As the former president of the Blair County branch of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, I feel the necessity to address an almost unbelievable act by President Trump. The AOH is the largest Irish-American organization in the USA. That Donald Trump would, with the assist of AI, depict himself in papal vestments, seated on the Chair of Saint Peter. This was released during the sacred period of mourning after the death of Pope Francis. This is grossly inappropriate. It is a blatant affront to all Catholics and an attack on our belief in the sanctity of the Papacy. That the ...

President’s military parade not a good idea

The long-running Broadway show and movie, “Funny Girl,” featured a song where Barbra Streisand fervently pleads, “Don’t Rain on My Parade!” Before it is too late, I contend that the American public, Congress, and the D.C. government should do everything in their power to thwart President Donald Trump’s military parade extravaganza on June 14, Trump’s birthday. I am a longtime supporter of our military and veterans. However, I strongly suggest spending millions on such a military showcase parade is going too far. Why not use those hard-earned tax dollars to bolster the ...