It is with a heavy heart that we share this message with everyone who has followed the City-County Observer for more than two decades. As of February 1, 2026, there will be no further publications of the City-County Observer.

With Ron’s passing, continuing his legacy has been incredibly difficult. This paper was truly his passion, and it meant a great deal to him to keep the community informed.

We are deeply grateful to all who supported and read the paper over the years, especially those who enjoyed “Is It True?” and the many articles that sparked conversation and kept readers engaged.

As we close this chapter, we do so with a salute to Ron and the work he dedicated so much of his life to.
Good Job, Ron. PEACE OUT

“We hope that today’s IS IT TRUE will provoke honest and open dialogue concerning issues that we, as responsible citizens of this community, need to address in a rational and responsible way.”

In that same spirit, we are sharing eight of Ron’s IS IT TRUE columns here. Pieces that reflect his commitment to asking hard questions, encouraging thoughtful discussion, and serving the community with integrity. These articles stand as a small sample of the work he cared deeply about and the conversations he hoped to foster.

Is it true we have lost one of the giants in this community?

Is it true a beacon of truth and light is no more?

Is it true we will miss him even more as time goes by?

My first memory of Cos was when he started the City County Observer – the CCO.

What a pain in the butt he was to those in government.

I don’t remember when we first met in person – but it didn’t take long before we became friends for life.  We shared love of country, military and law enforcement.  Cos truly loved his country, his family, friends and this community.

Cos never put himself first – he always tried to shine a light on others – his self-deprecating humor was a trademark – putting himself down while building up others.

Cos would have people believe he was just a poor, uneducated boy who grew up in a bad Jimtown neighborhood – but this was a college president, a government leader, successful businessman and many more – Cos was a Navy Frogman – the forerunner of Navy Seals – he sustained 100% military disability that few knew about.

The broad scope of Cos’ friends and contacts was unparalleled – some were known as his “moles” – Cos mixed and mingled with the high and the low – he was truly a-political – he defied any party label.  Cos was equally cursed by Democrats and Republicans, by liberals and conservatives.

As his friend, confidant and attorney, I can tell you he had no interest in acquiring great wealth – only to take care of his family and friends.

I’ve been closely involved in politics and government for more than 55 years and I never met anyone like Cos.

He was motivated by principles of truth and integrity to hold those in positions of authority accountable.

Cos used to tell me we were the last of the Freedom Fighters – not afraid to stand up to bullies, the rich, the powerful and politically connected.

I was honored when he would say he would share a foxhole with me any day.

I miss our daily phone calls and the incredible range of topics.

I miss the text messages and emails especially his term “monster, monster” when he was excited by some really big scoop.

I miss analyzing problems and solutions and being guided by a moral and ethical compass.

I miss the dedication to publish all sides of an issue without bias to allow the public to decide.

I miss hearing him tell me:  “You ain’t right, brother but we’re both crazy.”

If you perceive the decline of news media in this community, this state and nation – you are not alone.  Whether it be the right or left, so much is filtered, slanted and opinion reported as fact – all with an ulterior motive.

It is my hope and prayer that Cos’ legacy of the CCO can be continued and that a beacon of truth and light continue to shine.

Let me close with words of Cos in our last conversation, one which he kept saying “I’m excited, I’m excited.”

His last words to me, – I say to him – “peace out, brother.”

The Eagle Flies Toward the Mountains, Sea, and Sun

Alone and without his nest, the eagle flies across the sun. When he reached the foot of the hill, he turned again towards the sea!

Ready I go,and now my eagerness with sails full set and I now await the wind.

My soul cried out to my sleepless mother and father; you’re no longer alone because I have joined you at the peaceful river.

I cast off this day, I must depart with my pain without regret!

I go in peace and without sorrow.

The gates of my heart have flung open and I close my eyes and pray in silence because all is well with my soul!

This day of parting is the day of my soulful gathering.

This is the eve of my truth! My love for my family and friends flows like a fountain.

I now fill your cups to celebrate and give thanks!

This is the day of my harvest, because all my life I have sowed the seed of love, respect, trust and understanding!

I now raise my lantern and the guardian of the night has filled it with oil and I now have light!

The trade winds carry me over the mountains to the sea.

Let not the waves of the sea separate us now because my journey has just begun!

I’m an eagle and I now fly over the mountains,the sea, and towards the sun!

Grieve not but rejoice because I’m at peace and now set at the right hand f mt creator!