Mar 4, 2015 2 min read

I write in praise of the commentary piece by Michael Passalacqua about the hysteria that surrounds winter weather forecasts that appeared in the Observer-Reporter March 1. This is one of best opinion pieces I’ve read in a very long time and I’m certain it reflects the attitudes of many, many people who live in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

I can think of little else that is more annoying than the histrionics and hyperbole that accompany every newscast every time it snows. As Passalacqua pointed out with great acuity, it snows here every winter. Some times a little, some times a lot, but I will never understand the complete overreaction of some people in the region whenever it snows.

I’ve lived here for most of my life, and I can remember a Christmas when it was 70 degrees and we played outside with the football we got as a gift. Then again, I’ve seen it snow on Easter. The weather here is nothing if not unpredictable, but it’s not Armageddon.

Thanks to Passalacqua for pointing out the absurdity we all live with year after year, but, like the emperors’ new clothes, never comment on.

Joe Manning

Washington

Manning is a member of Washington City Council.