Opinions

The 2024 session of the Virginia General Assembly convenes today. With divided government in Richmond, we are optimistic that the narrow Democratic majorities in the state Senate and House of Delegates will be able to work cooperatively with their Republican colleagues in each chamber and Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

Jan. 3, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: The CARE Rockbridge Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Parade has for the past seven years brought us together in our fight for justice and the common good. As we prepare for a new year, we ask that you mark your calendars for our eighth annual community parade on Jan. 15, stepping off at 10:30 a.m. in front of Randolph Street United Methodist Church, at 118 S. Randolph St. in Lexington.

Jan. 4, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the continued veneration of Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson by the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Daughters of the Confederacy and their comrades. While I respect the importance of understanding our nation’s history, it is imperative that we critically assess the actions of historical figures, particularly those who chose to betray their oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States.

Jan. 2, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette Congratulations to all of the candidates in these last local elections, winners and losers.

Jan. 2, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: The letter that follows was sent to Lexington City School Board members and was signed by 38 RCHS/LHS LGBTQIA+ alumni, 37 supporting RCHS/LHS alumni, and 27 supporting community members. Visit tiny.cc/Dec23 letter for the full list of signees.

Jan. 4, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: First of all, I want to thank The News-Gazette for being fair and balanced. I have been reading The News-Gazette for some time; they report on all sides of the news.

Jan. 8, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: Thanks to Glenn Rose for his column “The Real Threat.”

Jan. 8, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: I am writing in response to Mr. Carl Pattison’s letter to the editor published Dec. 27 and Mr. Rose’s column published Jan. 3 regarding immigration.

Jan. 8, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: Can you recommend a candidate?

Jan. 2, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: Those that have listened to the goings-on in Richmond over the past few years have heard all the discussions of the Virginia Clean Economy Act and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

Dec. 29, 2023 Editor, The News-Gazette: Arguments over whether Donald Trump attempted to insurrect the American government has now exceeded the normal limit on how long reasonable people should continue to pleasure themselves with fairy tales.

Dec. 29, 2023 Editor, The News-Gazette: Rockbridge area residents and visitors expressed deep concern over the heavy sediment and bright green algae seen in the Maury River throughout August 2023. These environmental threats to life in and along the river resulted from the extended, high-volume release of water from Lake Merriweather. The release was undertaken in anticipation of dredging activity projected for the fall of 2023.

The immigration situation at our souther n border has become a pol it i cal football for people who see it as a way to retain their power and, for one individual, a way to regain power following his failed attempt to violently overthrow our Constitution.

50 Years Ago

One of the most under-reported stories of the past year that we can’t overstate the significance of is the state of Virginia completing the purchase of Natural Bridge State Park – property that includes the 215-foot-tall limestone arch itself and accompanying 1,500 acres.

Republicans’ Policies On Immigrants Questioned

I am not a regular church goer and haven’t been for years. But I still consider Trinity United Methodist Church to be my home church.

50 Years Ago

Dec. 18, 2023 Editor, The News-Gazette: Weeks of public commentary and controversy about certain books in middle school libraries has brought me to several conclusions about both sides of the debate.

Dec. 11, 2023 Editor, The News-Gazette: When I think about Christmas my mind goes back to my childhood when Christ was the main feature. Christmas carols and manger scenes were the main attractions we enjoyed so much.