As a student majoring in the natural sciences, I am fascinated by the world around us. There is much to be learned and understood about the origin of life and the role that humans play in it.
However, I am saddened to realize that many people either do not understand or refuse to accept the commonly held view of the scientific community.
For example, in the Aug. 27 letter, “Scientific creationism versus evolution,” Wendell McLaughlin claims that the theory of evolution is not credible, instead promoting a view that he calls “scientific creationism.” To support his view, McLaughlin claims that evidence exists supporting a planet life of 6,000 to 10,000 years “using DNA, carbon dating, fossils, etc., which supports the biblical account.”
I am interested as to what sources this information was taken from. All reputable and well-researched sources I have encountered over the years have presented information supporting a roughly estimated planet life of several billion years.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s report “Geologic Time,” samples of ancient rocks on all continents have been estimated at 3.5 billion years old by carbon-14 and radiometric dating methods.
Needless to say, evolution is a controversial topic of those who question the evidence or whose religious beliefs are incompatible with it.
In science, our goal is simply to investigate and understand the world around us and search for truth. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to examine the evidence and decide what to believe.
Ryan Sweeney
Johnstown
Your feet have to last a lifetime
Hey, kids over 60, do you remember Commander Jets, the Red Ball Jets tennis shoe spaceman? He appeared in commercials and TV shows such as “Howdy Doody,” “Captain Kangaroo,” “Romper Room,” “Ricki & Copper” and “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
Commander Jets is long retired, but I’m concerned about your grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s feet. Feet become very important as we continue our journeys through life. Feet require support, warmth, cleanliness and nail care.
Safety and good hygiene are compromised when young people run with thongs between their toes. Originally, flip-flops were designed for wear on sandy beaches. Now, you see them on little people and big people everywhere and anytime.
Since we know how important our feet have become to us, rather than buying our offspring toys, electronics, games or candy, tell them how important a good pair of shoes or tennis shoes are. Take them shopping for a pair.
Trust old Commander Jets, they’ll run faster, jump higher, go farther and they’ll love you even more.
And don’t pack that big backpack more than 10-15 pounds on those little tykes.
Bob Helsel
Davidsville
Kudos to all who aided steeples project
The Friends of the Steeples Project (formally Save Our Steeples) would like to thank and recognize our supporters in our recent fundraisers throughout the Ethnic Fest.
We also organized The Steeples Chase 5K Race and Fun Walk. All race results can be viewed at www.steeplesproject.org.
Proceeds from both events will benefit ongoing improvements at The Grand Halle On Broad Street.
Rose Howarth
Johnstown
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