There is a grave problem currently in this country-unemployment. This problem exists everywhere and has always been in existence. I have heard of many citizens of New Martinsville relocating to find work due to the rising unemployment rates. Yes, it seems as if there are a great number of jobs being taken by “out of towners.”

I am from a small town in Texas. I didn’t move here to work in the oil fields. I found the job I currently hold after already living in this area. The oil field service company with whom I am employed has a yard here in New Martinsville and has many locals on its payroll. I would like to think we as American citizens can all understand that yes, these times are hard, but we will not give up, nor should any of God’s children judge their achievements by another’s misfortune.

I prefer to think that we are all locals. Local United States citizens, free to move where we need in order to support our families. Surely there is a way to keep all ignorance out of this already troublesome equation and let the rest of the world know that we the people still stand and will prosper collectively.

Carl Foster

New Martinsville