Breaking News

Letters to the Editor

Schmitt demonstrated dedication to justice

I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Lou Schmitt as Blair County Judge. Lou has demonstrated unwavering dedication to justice and fairness throughout his career. His extensive experience as a lawyer, his deep understanding of the law and his commitment to our community make him the ideal candidate for this important role. Lou Schmitt’s track record of integrity and his ability to remain impartial in difficult cases are qualities that we need in our judiciary. He has consistently shown that he puts the law and the people of Blair County first. I am confident that he ...

Routch will bring integrity as judge

We’ve always looked up to our dad as a person who carries himself with integrity and determination, consistently supporting us. His commitment to fairness and justice isn’t just something he talks about; it’s something he’s shown us every day in how he treats people. He leads by example, teaching us to stand up for what’s right. A tireless lawyer, he’s now working towards bringing that same dedication to becoming a judge where he can continue to make a difference. We’re proud of him, not just because he’s our dad, but because he genuinely wants to help others and his ...

‘Little Mermaid’ production ‘great’

I want to praise the Altoona Area High School’s production of “The Little Mermaid.” With all the children in the audience, I never heard any crying, whining, screaming, fighting, etc. I believe they were all transfixed as I was. I still can’t get over the fact that these kids range ninth to 12th grade. The scenery, the props, the puppets (especially the flamingos) and that music. I can’t get that music out of my head and I don’t want to. The entire cast was unbelievably great, but I want to send a great big shout out to Trevor Wilson and his role as “Sebastian the ...

Forested watersheds cut filtration costs

A recent article in the Altoona Mirror emphasized the foresight and wisdom of the Altoona Water Authority in acquiring and maintaining forested watersheds around its seven reservoirs supplying water to our region. Forested watersheds supply the highest quality water to Blair County’s drinking water supply and the only maintenance required is to keep them free from degradation and disturbance. According to the Mirror article; “The water in those reservoirs, which are fed from forested watersheds, is generally high quality, which eliminates the need for large sedimentation ...

Schmitt always looks for the best in people

This May 20, as the people of Blair County once again head to the polls, there is a clear choice in the race for Blair County Judge, and that is Louie Schmitt. My friend and fellow Saint Francis basketball alum has a love for the people of this region that matches his 6-foot 9-inch height. Service to these same people is in his blood. As state Representative for the 79th District, Lou has shown integrity, fairness and dedication to the people of this region that will undoubtedly be present on the bench as Judge. Louie has always looked for the best in people, yet will be firm when ...

What is happening to the rule of law?

We live in a country that says it believes in the rule of law. To me, that means that I have certain freedoms and rights under the United States Constitution and laws and can take action when those freedoms or rights are impinged or threatened. One way is to hire an attorney to bring a lawsuit to challenge the situation. My ability to do that depends on there being attorneys available to represent me in such cases. I am disturbed by the attacks on law firms that I am seeing. No less than four Executive Orders have been issued by President Donald Trump targeting law firms that have ...